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Engagement shoot at Griffith Observatory: Alison and Kevin

September 3, 2014
Engagement at Griffith Observatory | 100 Layer Cake

With expansive city views and a building whose history dates back to the early 1900s, the iconic Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles makes a pretty scenic backdrop for an engagement shoot. Bride-to-be Alison’s vibrant pink dress and the couple’s infectious smiles completed the look (reminiscent of the perfect date, no?), captured by the ever-talented Luke + Katherine from Max and Friends. See for yourself…

Engagement at Griffith Observatory | 100 Layer Cake Engagement at Griffith Observatory | 100 Layer Cake

So cute!

Engagement at Griffith Observatory | 100 Layer Cake Engagement at Griffith Observatory | 100 Layer Cake

On the ring, from Alison: About two months prior to our engagement, I discovered that Kevin was interested in having a ring made for me. His mom knew of this, my mom knew of this, and therefore that bit of information ‘somehow’ leaked to me. I knew what type of ring I had been dreaming of, but also knew (or feared) that Kevin did not (despite my not so subtle hints!). That’s when I asked my mom to step in on my behalf, and guide my fiancée through the ring design process. Between her Pinterest account and mine, we had plenty of inspiration to choose from. I eventually found a beautiful design, and my mom and Kevin secretly (again, I knew) went to our local friend and jewelry designer to have a ring created. Very sneaky!

Engagement at Griffith Observatory | 100 Layer Cake Engagement at Griffith Observatory | 100 Layer Cake Engagement at Griffith Observatory | 100 Layer Cake Engagement at Griffith Observatory | 100 Layer Cake Engagement at Griffith Observatory | 100 Layer Cake

Because she knew about the ring, and Kevin, wasn’t soo great with the whole “secret” aspect of a proposal, Alison was on her toes at all times, wondering when he’d pop the Q, especially when they planned a road trip to Arizona for Kevin’s college alumni weekend. After almost an entire trip without no proposal, she figured she was mistaken, until…

Kevin suggested that we take a helicopter ride with a few of his friends (Kevin has been a private corporate pilot for about 15 years). I was all for going up for a ride, until I set foot inside the helicopter. Once I was buckled in and heard the blades starting up, I instantly wanted to leave. I felt claustrophobic, nerves were tensing up and I discreetly expressed it to Kevin. He very sweetly insisted that I stay on for the ride, and luckily I did as the ride was as smooth and comfortable as could be. As my nerves settled and I was busy looking out the window for the perfect Instagram moment, Kevin had the pilot stop over a nice scenic area. He came up on the intercom and said a few words about himself and spoke about me too. And before I knew it, he pulled a beautiful diamond ring out of his pocket and he asked me to be his wife.  

Engagement at Griffith Observatory | 100 Layer Cake Engagement at Griffith Observatory | 100 Layer Cake

Some parting words, c/o Alison… I love that we got engaged in a special place, an unusual place. I love that Kevin caught me off guard. I love that we spent the rest of our trip and the drive home fantasizing about our happy future. I love that we are getting married soon and have yet another beautiful day of celebrating ahead of us!

So sweet! Congrats, you two!

Photography: Luke Griffin and Katherine Rose of Max and Friends | Venue: Griffith Observatory | Dress: Dolce Vita (similar color here) | Shoes: J. Crew