There are moments in life that take your breath away, and Kade and Grace's engagement on Marco Island was one of those unforgettable moments. As a photographer at ADOR Photo + Video, I had the immense pleasure of capturing this beautiful surprise proposal, set against the stunning backdrop of the JW Marriott on Marco Island. Kade reached out to me weeks before their trip to Marco Island with a heartwarming plan to ask the love of his life, Grace, to marry him. He wanted everything to be perfect, from the location to the timing, and most importantly, he wanted the moment to be a complete surprise for Grace. We worked together to coordinate every detail, choosing a secluded spot on the pristine beach at the JW Marriott on Marco Island—a location known for its breathtaking sunsets and serene ocean views.

Planning a surprise proposal is an art form, especially when it’s on one of the most beautiful beaches in Florida. Kade and I discussed the logistics, from the exact spot where he would pop the question to the perfect time of day to catch that magical golden hour light. The JW Marriott on Marco Island provided the ideal setting—its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters made for a romantic and intimate atmosphere. We decided on a early evening proposal, just as the sun was beginning to dip towards the horizon. This timing allowed us to capture the soft, golden hues of the sunset, creating a dreamy, ethereal backdrop for Kade’s proposal.

As the big day arrived, I discreetly set up my equipment, blending in with the other beachgoers so that Grace wouldn’t suspect a thing. Kade and Grace took a leisurely stroll along the beach, with Grace blissfully unaware of what was about to happen. When they reached the designated spot, Kade took a deep breath, dropped to one knee, and asked Grace to be his forever. The look of surprise and pure joy on Grace’s face was absolutely priceless. Tears of happiness streamed down her cheeks as she said "Yes!" and Kade slipped the ring onto her finger. It was a moment of pure magic, and I felt incredibly honored to capture it.

A surprise proposal is a once-in-a-lifetime moment, and having a professional photographer there to capture every emotion, every glance, and every tear makes that moment last forever. Marco Island is a picturesque location that adds a touch of paradise to any proposal, and the JW Marriott provides the perfect mix of luxury and natural beauty.

As a JW Marriott photographer, I specialize in creating images that tell the story of your love in a way that is authentic and timeless. Whether it’s the way the sunlight dances on the water or the raw emotion in the moment, my goal is to capture it all so you can relive that special day for years to come.