Surprise Marriage Proposal with Floral Arrangement at Sunset Cliffs Natural Park in San Diego, California
Greg had been planning this moment for weeks. He pictured the ocean crashing below, golden light cutting across the horizon, and Mariam walking toward a beautiful display of flowers and candles.
Their story began when Greg and Mariam met in the Bay Area and started dating in 2022. With Greg now being in Phoenix and Mariam going to school at UC Irvine, Greg knew he wanted to propose before heading back to Arizona. With the help of close friends, a talented local florist, and his trusty photographer (yours truly), the plan was set in motion.
Mariam thought they were taking a stroll before dinner, but instead, she was met with views of the ocean, Greg on one knee, and friends sharing the joy from a distance. The ring was unreal, her reaction was even better, and just when she thought it was over, her best friend surprised her, too!
Why Sunset Cliffs is Perfect for a Proposal
There’s a reason Sunset Cliffs is a popular and classic spot to propose in San Diego. It has the views, endless ocean, and a front-row seat to some of the best sunsets in Southern California. The natural park at the end of the cliffs tends to be a little more private, which is a big win if you’d rather not have an immense crowd during such an intimate moment. However, no matter where you go at Sunset Cliffs, there are plenty of tucked-away spots to explore. Whether you want a floral setup like Greg did, or just the two of you and the ocean, there’s space to create a moment that feels like yours.
Things to Know Before Proposing at Sunset Cliffs
When I photograph proposals at Sunset Cliffs, I help with all the details so everything goes smoothly. First, timing matters. Golden hour isn’t just a photographer buzzword — the light is softer and warmer, and flattering. I’ll guide you on the best time to meet so you get that glow while also keeping in mind peak visitor times.
Some overlooks at the cliffs are more crowded than others — I always scout the area in advance and help you choose a spot that matches what you’re envisioning. Sunset Cliffs can get busy, and the last thing you want is a stressful sprint to make it on time. I’ll walk you through logistics so it’s as seamless as possible.
Working With Florists for Proposal Setups
If you’re thinking about adding flowers, keep a few things in mind:
Weight + wind. The cliffs get breezy, so heavy vases or floral foam secured with weights are your friend.
Color palette. Think about how your flowers will play with the golden light and ocean backdrop. Warm tones really glow here.
Cleanup. It’s a protected natural area, so florals need to be removed afterward — no petals left behind. I often coordinate with florists so everything runs smoothly.
No need to fret! Professional florists are aware of these things and you’ll be well taken care of.
Why Having a Photographer Helps
Pulling off a surprise proposal can feel like running a covert operation. Between hiding the ring, coordinating friends, timing the sunset, and making sure you don’t trip over nerves, but that’s where I come in. Not only do I capture the actual moment, but I help with logistics: picking the exact spot, offering florist recommendations, and making sure the experience is seamless and a perfect memory.
Choosing the right photographer is crucial. It’s not just about getting the shot, but about making the whole process stress-free and including someone in your experience that will elevate it for you and your fiancé. Study your photographer’s creative style as well as who they are as a person. Do y’all click? Would you hang out with this person and grab a bevy? Will they make you and your partner feel comfortable in front of the camera?
I’ve photographed countless proposals across San Diego and Southern California, from the cliffs to the beaches to hidden gardens. My approach is part storyteller, part logistics coordinator, and part hype-person, making sure you can focus on the moment while I handle the rest. I help with location scouting, timing, vendor coordination, and capturing everything from the nervous smile to the celebratory champagne pop.
Planning your own surprise proposal? Let’s chat!
