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Proposal Photography at Coworth Park - Equestrian Center

Cat Brant
Sep 4
3 min read

Colin & Teagan

Some moments in life feel like they were written for the big screen, and Colin’s proposal to Teagan at Coworth Park was one of those.

Colin had been secretly preparing for weeks, learning to ride a horse in secret. Teagan, a lifelong horse lover, thought she was simply enjoying a solo riding experience at Coworth Park. Her friends had told her they’d won the experience but couldn’t make it, so she happily took their place. The venue had also mentioned that photos were needed for marketing, which explained why I’d be there with my camera. To Teagan, it was just another sunny day in the saddle, until it wasn’t.

As she rode towards the lakeside, Colin appeared on horseback. Her face said it all, she suspected what was coming & to be honest I think she could see the box in his trousers too, but nothing could prepare her for the moment he dismounted, walked over, and dropped to one knee.

And of course, she said yes! The ring is a beauty, you can see it and the whole proposal in the gallery below.

Two people ride horses on a sunny day in a grassy field with trees in the background. The sky is blue with fluffy clouds.

Planning the Perfect Proposal & Organising Proposal Photography

A proposal like this doesn’t just happen; it’s all in the planning. About ten days before the big day, Colin and I did a site visit together. We walked through the route, checked the lakeside spot for light and angles, and coordinated with the wonderful team at the Coworth Park equestrian centre. The attention to detail was incredible, and everyone was invested in making this moment perfect.

Before this meeting, Colin and I had already spoken to discuss his vision for the proposal and how he imagined it would all play out so I already had a feel for what was needed on the day and knew that my style of natural, documentary style photography would work well.

On the day itself, everything ran so seamlessly (give or take a missing t-shirt Colin had forgotten to pack). I photographed every second, from Teagan’s surprise to the moment Colin slipped the ring onto her finger. As a little extra, I also filmed the proposal so they could relive it from every angle. By the next day, their sneak peek gallery was ready, giving them plenty to share with friends and family.

A person kneels proposing to another beside a gray horse near a pond. The person standing appears surprised. Sunny day with clouds.

Thinking of Proposing? Need a Photographer?

If you’re planning to pop the question, whether it’s at Coworth Park or somewhere else meaningful to you, the key is thoughtful planning. Colin’s idea worked so beautifully because it was tailored to Teagan and her love of horses, the setting, the element of surprise, and of course, having it all captured so they can relive it forever.

The best proposals are the ones that reflect your partner’s personality. Start by thinking about what she loves most and how she feels most comfortable.

For example, if your girlfriend is an introvert who prefers quiet moments over crowds, a private picnic with her favourite foods and a chilled bottle of wine could be perfect, thoughtful, intimate, and just for the two of you. If she’s a beach lover, a simple walk along the shore that ends with “Will you marry me?” written in the sand will feel unforgettable without being over the top. And if she’s all about family and friends, arranging for them to appear after the proposal for a surprise celebration can make the moment even more special.

The key is to tailor it to her & what makes her happiest and create a story she’ll be proud to tell for the rest of her life while still keeping the element of surprise alive. There's not a woman I've met who doesn't tell the story of her proposal like a badge of honour.

If you’d like to talk about planning your proposal photography, from site visits to seamless execution, I’d love to help you create a story just as magical. Get in touch here and let's chat!

Comments

hi! I'm cat and i am a full time wedding photographer

(and a little bit of a photography geek!)

I started taking photos as a teenager, my Dad was a wedding photographer and I would often help him. In 2021 I left my corporate job with a dream and hope that I could make photography a full time job. Since then I have been pouring my heart and soul into this business and have been honoured to be chosen as wedding photographer for so many lovely couples as well as being a portrait and event photographer.

I TAKE CLASSIC, TIMELESS, DOCUMENTARY STYLE PHOTOGRAPHS WITH MINIMAL INTRUSION

But I will step in and offer gentle guidance when it's right to do so, I have learned over the years to read the room, anticipate the next move, hold space when needed and offer support when I can.

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