When the Storm Paused: A Winter Proposal in Glenbrook, Nevada

If I wrote nothing and you simply scrolled through these images, you might think it was a calm, overcast winter day. Only Jake, Kristin, and their family would know about the nail-biting chain of events that led to the moment the ferocious storm let up, allowing this scene to happen. Unless, of course, you scroll to the end to read the story of how this afternoon unfolded—and why I truly believe that sometimes there are angels above watching over us when we need them most.

What do you do when a winter storm is spiraling above and gusts of wind over 70 mph present a challenge for a surprise proposal on the lake?

This day was the only day the proposal could happen. Indoor options were not ideal. I arrived 2 hours early. It had been windy, with rain blowing sideways all day. The radar showed there might be a slight break when the rain turned to snow, and we’d take full advantage if that happened. The plan was that the family would be cozied up at their nearby home as the weather rolled in, digesting a late brunch (the reason Kristin was dressed nicely), and when I gave the go-ahead, Jake would want to get out for some fresh air, and Kristin would join him for a walk. A walk in this weather? It’s Tahoe; we do these kinds of things.

Glenbrook offers many more options than just the lake. I had picked three other wooded spots that provided some protection from the rain and wind. I patrolled around, just waiting for a window of opportunity that felt like the best weather we might get, and I may have had some conversations with the heavens above to help this wonderful couple have their moment.

As 3:00 approached, the pressure was on to get started at the latest possible time. One minute the rain let up, and the next, the winds came back even stronger. There must have been at least ten times I almost texted Jake to go for it and then pressed delete. Finally, regardless of what the weather gave us, we’d meet at a wooded trail. Jake fully trusted my gut, and it felt like our only option at this point. It was a beautiful spot, but given the uniqueness of Glenbrook and Jake’s original plan, it felt a bit too generic to me.

This meadow was not one of the contenders, as it was far too exposed, but it was on the drive to the woods, so I got out for one last check. It’s such an iconic view of the historic Shakespeare Ranch, and further back, Shakespeare Rock, named for its resemblance to the playwright. Do you see it? Just then, with dark clouds moving in fast, the sky opened up, and the wind took an intermission! Snow started blowing, but then the sun peeked through as if to say, “Now! It’s time!”

Jake rerouted. I waited, fingers and toes crossed, hoping this weather break would hold for as long as we needed to pull this off. I’d be sitting in my car, disguised as being on my phone, when they walked by, quickly grabbing my camera as they passed and moving in as he scratched his head to signal he was about to go down on one knee. We even saw blue sky for a moment, as we milked every ounce of the ten minutes of calm we were given. Someone was undoubtedly smiling down on us.

And so, there you have it! The way things work out when you have a little faith, determination, and cash in some brownie points with Mother Nature.

Looking to have your proposal captured by someone who genuinely cares? Reach out and I’ll collaborate with you on the perfect surprise!