Monterey Proposal at Lovers Point | Matthew & Angela

Some proposals just have that feel-good energy from start to finish — and Matthew and Angela’s was exactly that.

Matthew and Angela are from the SoCal / Los Angeles area, and after 8 years together, Monterey has become a special place for them. It’s something of a tradition — coming up the coast, slowing down, and soaking in the scenery together. While Carmel never quite clicked for them, they completely fell in love with Pacific Grove — and honestly, I get it.

A couple of weeks before the proposal, Matthew reached out and let me know they’d be staying near Lovers Point and that he wanted to propose there. Lovers Point is iconic for a reason, but it can also get very crowded. I suggested a quieter spot just a little way down the trail — still close enough to feel connected to the moment, but far enough to avoid the big crowds. He trusted the idea, and once we locked it in, everything was set.

When the moment came, Angela was completely floored. The look on her face said it all. Matthew dropped to one knee, and right on cue, a runner passing by on the trail shouted, “Whooo! Congrats, bro!” — one of those perfectly unplanned moments that made everyone laugh and made the proposal feel even more real and joyful.

Afterward, we did a relaxed mini session around the area. No pressure, no stiff posing — just the two of them soaking it all in, laughing, and enjoying that just-engaged feeling with the Pacific Grove coastline as the backdrop.

Later that evening, Matthew texted me to say thank you — for helping make the experience smooth, for recommending the location, and for making them feel comfortable in front of the camera. Messages like that never get old.

Matthew and Angela, congratulations again. Thank you for trusting me with such a big moment and for choosing the Monterey Peninsula to start this next chapter together.

Thinking About Proposing in Monterey or Pacific Grove?

If you’re planning a Monterey proposal, Lovers Point proposal, or a Pacific Grove engagement, having someone local can make all the difference — especially when it comes to timing, crowds, and choosing the right spot.

I help with:

• Location recommendations (crowded vs. hidden gems)

• Timing around light and foot traffic

• Staying discreet but ready

• A relaxed mini session after the proposal

If you’re looking for a Monterey proposal photographer, Lovers Point proposal photos, or Pacific Grove engagement photography, I’d love to help make it an experience you’ll never forget.

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Drew Zavala

Monterey Proposal Photographer | Drew Zavala Photo

Big Sur Proposal - Drew Zavala Photo

Garland Ranch + Colton Hall Museum - Carmel Valley, CA - Drew Zavala Photography - Monica + Daniel

Monica + Daniel just got married on January 7th in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. I wish I could’ve been a part of it, but I was a wee bit outside of their budget. However, they still wanted to work with me, so they hired me for their engagement photos.

I photographed Monica’s cousin, Maria, for her wedding a couple months ago. Tap here to see my blog post all about Maria + Noe’s big day!

Monica and I actually had multiple instances of mutual connection, and it was so cool to discover that during our session. She’s a Dental Hygienist, and it turns out that she actually worked with my sister at a dental office a couple years ago. Small world!

We scheduled the shoot for Mid-December, and at the time, the couple were knee-deep in wedding preparations. Monica + Daniel were both eagerly anticipating their big day.

Their smiles were so wide and genuine that I couldn’t help but grin along with them! Right from the start, I knew that we were going to capture some prize-worthy shots.

This engagement session included two gorgeous locations: Garland Ranch and the Colton Hall Museum. I’ve shot at both of these places a million times, so I know all of the tips, tricks, and special alcoves that will give the illusion of privacy even if the place is busy.

At the Garland Ranch, Monica + Daniel combined their wardrobe colors expertly, Monica with her bold purple dress, and Daniel with dark, neutral tones. Having that fantastic pop of color in Monica’s dress made the couple stand out in front of the greens and browns of their surroundings. Great job, you two!

When we arrived at the Colton Hall Museum, the couple changed into clean, bright white. Planning different outfits for each location really made this session special, and I’m thrilled that they chose the pieces they did.

Even though I couldn’t make it to your wedding, it was a pleasure meeting you both for your engagement session at Garland Ranch and the Colton Hall Museum. Congratulations on your marriage! I know you’re both excited to step into this new stage in life.