Engaged couple in Winnemac Park Chicago

Photographing proposals is one of my favorite parts of being a wedding photographer, and David's proposal to Natalya at Winnemac Park was nothing short of magical. It had just snowed on Friday, leaving the park blanketed in a layer of fresh, powdery snow. It was the kind of winter day you hope for—bright, beautiful, and perfect for such a special moment.


David and Natalya’s story started back in February 2022 when they met briefly through work at an assisted living facility. At the time, Natalya had another relationship and eventually moved on to a new job in the city. Months later, fate brought them together again when they ran into each other at the gym. Over the summer, their friendship grew, and by that fall, they realized they were meant for more. David told me how much he loves being with Natalya and how she inspires him to be the best version of himself—a sentiment you could see so clearly in the way he looked at her.


To make the proposal a surprise, David told Natalya they were heading to brunch with his buddy and his buddy’s wife. Meanwhile, his roommate’s little sister Carly arrived early at Winnemac Park to record the moment on her phone. The plan worked perfectly! As they walked through the park, surrounded by snow-covered trees, David stopped, turned to Natalya, and got down on one knee. Her face lit up with joy and surprise, and she immediately said yes! It was such a sweet moment, made even more magical by the wintry backdrop.


I love how the photos from this session tell their story. From the nervous excitement on David's face just before the proposal to the pure happiness in Natalya’s eyes, every moment was so special.


David and Natalya, congratulations on your engagement! Thank you for letting me capture this beautiful milestone in your love story. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for you two! Here’s a peek at some of my favorite shots from the day—I hope you love them as much as I do!

Man proposes to woman in snow-dusted park with bare trees and parked cars visible behind an iron fence in winter. Winnemac Park, Chicago
Man proposes to woman in snow-dusted park with bare trees and parked cars visible behind an iron fence in winter. Winnemac Park, Chicago
Man proposes to woman in snow-dusted park with bare trees and parked cars visible behind an iron fence in winter. Winnemac Park, Chicago
Man proposes to woman in snow-dusted park with bare trees and parked cars visible behind an iron fence in winter. Winnemac Park, Chicago
Man proposes to woman in snow-dusted park with bare trees and parked cars visible behind an iron fence in winter. Winnemac Park, Chicago
friend brings champagne and glasses to couple as to celebrate their engagement, Winnemac Park Chicago in Winter
An elegant emerald-cut diamond engagement ring nestled among green pine needles in soft light.
a couple pops champagne in Winnemac Park to celebrate their engagement in Winter
a couple pops champagne in Winnemac Park to celebrate their engagement in Winter
a couple pops champagne in Winnemac Park to celebrate their engagement in Winter
A couple shares a celebratory moment pouring champagne into glasses during a winter proposal photoshoot in Winnemac Park, Chicago.
Champagne being poured into a glass flute held by a hand with red nail polish and gold rings.
A couple shares a romantic kiss while holding champagne glasses outdoors in black and white photography. Proposal photos in Winnemac Park,
A couple shares a tender moment on a snowy winter path lined with bare trees and white fencing. winnemac Park Chicago
A romantic black and white photo of a couple embracing and kissing outdoors in winter with bare trees in background.
Close-up of hands wearing engagement rings and red nail polish against beige and navy clothing. Winnemac Park Chicago
A couple dips playfully on a winding path through a snowy park landscape with bare winter trees. Proposal Winnemac Park, Chicago
Couple twirls after getting engaged in Winnemac Park Chicago
A romantic black and white photo shows a couple embracing outdoors, with her curly hair flowing as she leans back joyfully.
A couple takes a romantic winter stroll along a snowy path in the park with bare trees in the background.
A couple showing their engagement ring while smiling during a winter engagement photo session. Winnemac Park Chicago
Black and white romantic photo of a couple sharing an intimate kiss, with her hand gently touching his face.
Romantic winter embrace between couple in navy and beige clothing against snowy outdoor backdrop. Winnemac park Chicago

David and Natalya, thank you so much for letting me be part of this unforgettable moment. Capturing the love and excitement between you two was such an honor, and I’m so happy to have witnessed the beginning of this next chapter in your lives. Congratulations again on your engagement! I wish you all the happiness in the world as you plan your wedding and continue building your life together.