When I got the call that Sean was proposing to Hilary, I nearly flipped out of my chair.

They were some of my first friends I met when we moved down here to San Diego, which makes being a part of this proposal all the more special.

Sean planned the whole thing, he made the calls to the winery, set up the schedule, and picked the final location.

When I arrived at Avensole Winery in Temecula and mentioned I was the photographer for a surprise proposal happening in an hour, the entire staff was thrilled about the plan. They pointed out Sean and Hilary dining in the back of the restaurant and seated me where I had a perfect view of them.

When a couple knows me personally, I have to be a bit more cautious to not be recognized so I brought a friend along to disguise us as two girls casually out for a wine tasting weekend. We’ve had some experience playing those roles, so it worked out well. ;)

Seriously, the whole staff was in on this. They continually updated us when Sean and Hilary got their food, finished eating, got the check, and so on.

As they wrapped up dinner, we bolted outside and sat nonchalantly as we waited for them to take a walk around the winery.

They came walking down, my heart was racing as it always does during proposals. They made their way to the location we agreed on and it was go time.

Everything went according to plan to say the least, if not better. And we had a gorgeous California sunset to finish off an unforgettable evening.

Take as much time you need to soak in all the beauty in this surprise proposal.

Congrats Hil + Sean!!