A Winter Fairytale: Gustaf & Carly’s Holiday Proposal in Highland Park Village
If you know me, you know I love proposals! But there is something undeniably magic about proposals during the holidays.
Just twelve days before Christmas, Gustaf and Carly flew home from Sweden to spend the holidays with family. Their story is already one for the books: they first met overseas while Carly was playing professional soccer in Sweden. When Gustaf decided it was time to pop the question, he knew he wanted a setting that felt every bit as memorable as their journey together. Working together with Carly’s sister and our team at Eternal Love Photo, Gustaf meticulously planned every detail for the perfect holiday proposal.
The Holiday Proposal Pivot
Our original plan was set for Flippen Park in Dallas, Texas, but as any photographer (and fiancé to be) knows, live events always keep you on your toes! When we arrived on location, we were met with a few unexpected guests: three other proposals were taking place at the exact same time.
Without missing a beat, we pivoted, Gustaf went one direction and we went the other. At the last moment Gustaf made an executive decision to pivot. Just a few minutes down the street in Highland Park, we found a hidden intimate bridge tucked away from the crowds, a secluded spot that felt entirely theirs.
Into the Shadows & Under the Lights
As blue hour faded into night, Carly’s family and our team hid beneath the soft shadow of the trees. Gustaf was clear about his vision, he wanted the romance and warm glow of the holiday lights to take center stage. When Carly walked onto the bridge, the scene was set. The moment she realized what was happening, she was overcome with emotion and then beneath the canopy of trees and the gentle sparkle of the surrounding lights, Gustaf got down on one knee.
Cinematic & Noir Inspired Magic
Capturing this proposal felt straight out of a classic noir film. The deep evening shadows paired with the brilliant, twinkling holiday lights created a mood that was dramatic, moody, and deeply romantic. Every direct flash detail and candid reaction felt cinematic and like a true reflection of authentic story.
Congratulations to Gustaf and Carly! It was an absolute honor to help plan, pivot, and capture this unforgettable step in your love story.
