The Perfect Setting for a Costa Rica Proposal
Planning a surprise proposal is all about creating something that feels special without losing the intimacy of the moment. Andaz Costa Rica gives us so many possibilities for exactly that. The resort is surrounded by the natural landscape of Peninsula Papagayo, with secluded beach areas, tropical greenery and incredible golden light toward the end of the day. For this proposal, he chose the beach. She arrived thinking they were simply enjoying another beautiful afternoon together in Guanacaste, Costa Rica. Then, with the ocean behind them, he got down on one knee.
And she said yes!!!
The best part of photographing a proposal like this is capturing everything as it actually happens — the surprise, the reaction, the laughter, the hugs and those first few minutes when they realize they are officially engaged.
From Surprise Proposal to Engagement Photos
Once the secret was out, we stayed with them for an engagement session along the beach. This is one of the things we love about photographing proposals at Andaz Costa Rica. We photographed the ring, walked along the beach, explored and gave them time to simply celebrate their engagement. Nothing needed to feel overly posed. They laughed, walked barefoot, hugged, played around and took in the fact that they had just gotten engaged. The result is a gallery that tells much more than the moment he proposed... it tells the story of the day they decided to become each other's "forever home".
A Private Celebration by the Beach
Waiting for them afterward was another surprise: a beautiful private dinner surrounded by flowers and candlelight. The rich reds, pinks, and burgundy tones of the florals looked incredible against the sand and natural landscape of Papagayo Peninsula. As the light softened, the space became the perfect place for them to sit together, celebrate, and enjoy their first evening as an engaged couple. These little details matter. The ring. The flowers. The champagne. The dinner table. The beach where it happened. Years from now, they become part of the story too.
Planning a Proposal at Andaz Costa Rica?
We photograph at Andaz Costa Rica and throughout Peninsula Papagayo often, and knowing the location makes a real difference when photographing a surprise. We can help you think through the photography side of the plan, where the photographer can wait without giving away the surprise, what time gives us beautiful light, where to stand and how to naturally transition from the proposal into your engagement photos afterward.
Most importantly, you shouldn't have to think about the camera when the moment finally arrives. You ask the question. We'll be there to make sure you can remember everything that happened before, during, and after!
Planning a proposal, engagement or couples session at Andaz Costa Rica? We'd love to photograph it.
