It was a warm, beautiful February day in Clearwater, Florida for Devin’s proposal to Katie Lou.

Devin reached out with less than a month to plan this surprise engagement to Katie Lou. Devin knew he wanted three things–intimate, surprise and beach. I spent time asking questions that helped me understand how he wanted the day to feel, what were “must-haves,” and the reaction he wanted from Katie Lou. 

When I work with a client who doesn’t know exactly what they want, mood boards become a powerful communication tool. As we work, a mood board may change based on the client’s location, their budget, theme and color scheme. Mood boards allow me to better understand what a client does or does not like and their overall style. 

From the mood board I knew more about Devin’s vision for the event. He wanted 

• a red and black color scheme
• twilight on the beach
• beautiful lighting 
• an elegant, modern focal point
• roses

With that in mind, we were able to provide Devin with an initial budget and details within a few days. He was floored and we knew we were on the right track. 

We secured a location on the beach, researched restaurants for dinner and vendors capable of pulling this off in a short time frame. During the planning process we connected with Devin frequently,  juggling the short time frame and his schedule. Katie Lou, a professional WNBA player, was playing in Spain so we worked with her agent and manager to organize her schedule and travel to Florida, setting up time with a stylist and keeping the engagement a surprise.

During the event week, we created and sent each vendor a detailed timeline. The timeline helped vendors understand the moving parts of the event and their place in this beautiful moment. Day of we reached out to Devin gauging his thoughts and excitement and providing final steps. Our team worked with all vendors to deliver items and ensure decor set up. 

When the couple first arrived on site, they had an interview with media about their long distance relationship, their love of basketball and their love for each other. Devin and Katie Lou then threw a few hoops before he led her down the boardwalk and to the beach. As they got halfway Katie Lou understood what was about to happen and started to cry.  As they arrived on the beach the sun was beginning to set and a violinist played for the couple. 

Devin got on one knee and proposed to Katie Lou. She said yes through a mixture of tears and excitement. They enjoyed the remainder of their time taking a few photos on the beach and enjoyed a the intimate setting with champagne and chocolate covered strawberries.

Vendor Credits: 

Planner – Events by Evelyn
Photo/Video – Moving Pictures
Second Shooter – Shot By Nie
Floral Designer – Luxury Wedding Floral Design
Beauty – The Bella Agency
Location – Clearwater Beach Florida
Private Dinner – Carlouel Beach & Yacht Club
Violinist – Julie Paradies
Ring – JASON OF BEVERLY HILLS