2024 was a dream of a year for my family and I, and I’m lucky enough to have documented the most amazing proposal to wrap up the year! That’s right, late December I got to photograph producer and preacher DeVon Franklin’s surprise proposal to Maria Castillo on the island of Maui! This was SUCH a magical moment, and I’m just beyond grateful to have had the opportunity to document it for these two incredible people.

The Setup of DeVon Franklin’s Surprise Proposal

As with any true surprise proposal, there’s a lot of planning that goes into making it all happen. Helping to ensure that Maria was none the wiser before the proposal was Riley Canty of The Yes Girls, who helped DeVon plan the entire event. The plan was simple and believable, a romantic vacation to Maui to end 2024 off right. There DeVon and Maria would have a photo shoot to celebrate the getaway and have some lovely new photos to start the new year off right. That’s where I came in! DeVon, Maria, and I would meet up at The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua for their couples session, where unbeknownst to Maria, DeVon would pop the question.

Magic on the Island of Maui

From the very start of our time together, DeVon and Maria were a vision. Between their fabulous all white attire, and the incredible connection they share between one another, the vibes were immaculate for their session. We took our time enjoying the beauty that surrounds The Ritz-Carlton Maui to start their session. Throughout this time DeVon managed to keep his composure, not giving Maria any hints as to what was coming up next. We then made our way to Makaluapuna Point for the big moment itself. With a stunning backdrop of the Maui coastline, DeVon mentioned to Maria how this whole photo shoot was actually an engagement session! As she reacted in disbelief he dropped to one knee and popped the question! 

The joy on Maria’s face really says it all! These two are the perfect match for one another, and it was SUCH a treat being able to document this magical point in their relationship! After sliding the custom engagement ring designed by Carlotta Sarenas on Maria’s finger, I took a few official engagement photos before heading out and letting these two enjoy this moment together!

That’s the story of DeVon Franklin’s surprise proposal to Maria Castillo! I’m simply overjoyed that I was able to be a part of their special day, and I wanted to give a quick shoutout to People Magazine for featuring my work in their piece covering DeVon and Maria’s engagement! If you’re interested in having me photograph your proposal, engagement, wedding, or elopement be sure to send an inquiry through my contact page!