A Sunrise Proposal at Ft. Desoto Park

Weddings

March 8, 2026

Just a few days after Christmas, something special happened that I’ll never forget… A sunrise proposal at Ft. Desoto Park. Spencer had been teasing Tori for months about proposing. Tori knew it was coming at some point, but had no idea when. Now, if you know Tori, you know she loves a plan, and thrives on knowing what’s next. This fact naturally made the surprise element in this whole process almost comical.

Spencer had asked me to photograph the proposal. (Cue the happy tears because, if you don’t already know… I’m Tori’s mom). Now, there are few things more stressful than secretly trying to help plan AND photograph your daughter’s engagement, while knowing that you can be tracked on Life360 at any moment. (Yes, I could have turned off my location, but that might have made matters worse).

Weeks earlier, I had scoped out the proposal location at Ft. Desoto Park, while Tori was out of town celebrating her best friend, Ella’s, engagement. That part felt like divine timing.

What we didn’t anticipate was how much strategy it would take to keep Tori unsuspecting while all her siblings were home for Christmas. Tori is naturally inquisitive, and her planner personality was in full force.

At Last, the Day Arrived

At 5 a.m., I lay awake pretending to be asleep, waiting for Spencer to pick her up for their “casual” sunrise beach date. Once they left, I sprang into action! First things first! I had to pick up Ella, who had flown in for the holidays, and then we were on a mission to get to the beach before Spencer and Tori arrived.

The fog that morning was thick, and dreamy, and almost cinematic. The kind of morning you couldn’t have scripted better. The beach felt quiet and sacred, as they were walking our way. Then, Spencer dropped to one knee.

Watching the baby of the family say yes to the love of her life does something to your heart! Tori’s response was exactly what you’d expect from her: pure joy. She started jumping up and down in excitement. And then, Ella popped out from behind the dunes.

There were squeals and tears, which was so sweet to witness. Two best friends who had just stood beside each other at their engagements now getting to walk into this next season together. This Sunrise Surprise at Ft. Desoto Park was perfect!

After the hugs (which I somehow managed to photograph through my own tears), we spent time capturing some fun engagement photos in the foggy morning light. Once my momma heart settled down, the photographer in me was having a blast.

And, We Still Weren’t Done Yet!!

The rest of the day unfolded with carefully orchestrated distractions. There were coffee dates and visits with friends… all to keep them away from the house. The fact was, that waiting at home was a full-blown celebration.

That evening, our house was filled with family and friends. Spencer’s family drove over two hours to join us, and it was our very first time meeting them. Watching our two families come together, and seeing how loved Tori and Spencer are… it was overwhelming in the best way.

We laughed, told stories, and we ate far too much food. And we thanked God for His goodness.

It all happened so quickly. Surreal. Emotional. Beautiful. A foggy sunrise, a yes, and the beginning of forever. Tori and Spencer, you are loved beyond words!!! Your friends and family are so excited to watch your story unfold!!! Let’s get you two married!!!