There’s something so special about a Traverse City, Michigan proposal, especially in the fall when the leaves feel like they’re cheering you on! Kevin planned every detail with so much intention, and honestly, it was the sweetest thing to witness. After years together, this was their first ever session, which just made the whole day feel even more meaningful.
We started at Old Mission Lighthouse, one of my favorite proposal spots on Old Mission Peninsula. If you’ve seen my blog on the 5 Top Places to Propose in Michigan, you already know this area is a gem. It has everything you could want for a moment like this. Quiet trails, the beach, the lighthouse, the little cabin, and those cozy fall colors. And when Kevin got down on one knee, Catherine’s joy was instant! Like the kind of smile you feel in your chest.
After soaking up the moment and grabbing a few happy-tear photos, we headed to the overlook for a champagne pop. The whole evening felt down-to-earth, genuine, and full of that “I can’t believe this is happening” excitement.

Kevin started their session on the shoreline. The moment he dropped to one knee, the whole beach lit up with Catherine’s reaction. The fall colors at Old Mission Lighthouse were unreal. Golden leaves, soft sand, and a calm Lake Michigan backdrop made everything feel even more intimate. Their outfits were perfect for a fall Traverse City Michigan proposal. Cozy layers and neutral tones let them move, laugh, and enjoy every second.
After she said yes, we wandered around the lighthouse, the cabin, and the surrounding trails. That’s one thing I especially love about Old Mission Lighthouse. There are so many backdrops to choose from. Each one offers its own piece of that classic Northern Michigan charm I’ve loved since growing up here.
Between barefoot photos on the beach, snuggles in the tall grasses, and those sweet in-between moments, the whole session felt so genuine and down-to-earth. Old Mission Lighthouse is one of the best proposal locations in this area. It gives couples space to be present, soak in the moment, and enjoy a beautiful variety of scenery.




































The Overlook was glowing by the time we arrived, and the fall colors looked like something straight out of a painting. It’s one of those places that shows off the very best of Northern Michigan, especially in October. We celebrated their Traverse City Michigan proposal with a champagne pop overlooking rows of golden trees and the soft blues of Grand Traverse Bay in the distance. Honestly, the light was perfect. Warm, soft, and just wrapping around them while they laughed through the spray.
After that, they took a slow walk through the hillside, soaking up the views and all the excitement of the moment. The red leaves, wide-open fields, and that glowing treeline made every photo feel so cozy and genuine. The Overlook is such a peaceful spot for post-proposal portraits because you get time to breathe, celebrate, and enjoy the scenery together without any distractions.












Traverse City will always have a special place in my heart. There are so many hidden Northern Michigan gems tucked into this area, and evenings like Kevin and Catherine’s remind me just how magical a Traverse City Michigan proposal can be! From the quiet shoreline at Old Mission Lighthouse to the golden hills of The Overlook, this part of the state gives you the kind of beauty that makes big moments feel even more meaningful.
If you’re new here, my photography style is relaxed, warm, and centered around making you feel comfortable and genuinely yourself. I care deeply about creating an experience that allows you to be present, laugh a little, breathe a little, and walk away with photos that actually feel like you. That’s a huge part of why I love photographing proposals and intimate weddings here in Northern Michigan. These are moments you should be able to enjoy, not stress over!
You can learn more about me and my approach over on my about me page. And if something about my work feels like the right fit, or you’re hoping to find a Traverse City Michigan proposal or intimate wedding photographer you can genuinely trust, I’d love to hear from you! You can inquire with me anytime, and I’ll walk you through every step of the process.
I keep my blog updated regularly with more couples, weddings, and helpful planning resources, so feel free to check out the blog. This little corner of Michigan is full of beauty, and I’d be honored to help you tell your story here!

If you’re starting to plan your own Michigan proposal, I have a few resources that can make the process feel a little easier. From picking the right location to knowing what to expect, these guides are here to help you feel confident and excited about what’s ahead! You can check them out below!
✨ 10 Signs Your Partner Is About to Propose
💍 How to Plan a Proposal: 8 Steps
📍 5 Top Places to Propose in Michigan
If you’re planning a proposal of your own, here are a few more Northern Michigan sessions that show just how beautiful this place can be!
Sleeping Bear Dunes Proposal at Empire Bluff Trail

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