Best Birthday Ever! Surprise Proposal at the Koolwink

Savanna Morgret
Jul 10
3 min read

A few weeks ago, Mr. F. reached out with an idea. He had planned a 70s themed birthday roadtrip for his longtime girlfriend, and he wanted to propose! When he asked me if I'd be willing to capture it all for them, and put a "vintage" spin on it, it was a no brainer for me. I have a very consistent editing style that makes my images, well, mine, but every now and then I love a little step outside the box. After our phone conversation I got straight to work with a field trip down the road to the iconic Koolwink Motel, where the couple would be staying along their journey. At his request, this would be the location where he'd pop the question, and as expected, the Koolwink did not disappoint.

It's so special to grow up in a small town and know your neighbors. If you didn't already know, Robert and Kay Lee, owners of the vintage motel, are both so hospitable, kind, and accommodating. This kindness is standard practice at the Kookwink, as the office manager (and my point person for the arrangements), Miss Pam, was so helpful during my scouting mission to the property. She was able to point out great spots on the property (there is an amazing little patio area across the most charming foot bridge behind the main motel), helped me locate Mr. F's room, and helped me plan around other guests that would be up there that day. All in all, working with the Koolwink was 10/10. If you're ever passing through Romney and need a clean, hospitable, charming place to stay, a trip back in time at the Koolwink comes highly recommended!

With the location details squared away, Mr. F. and I had to come up with a way to capture the propsal that was both unsuspecting and organic, but allowed the right opportunity and angle to get the emotion of the moment. After tossing around a few ideas, it was decided that he would tell her that part of her birthday surprise at the Koolwink was a photo session in the 1969 Ford "Model F" (Mustang) that they cruised into Romney in. This was fun because I got to jump right into what I'm good at, while keeping the proposal a surprise. As far as Miss L. was concerned, the photo session was the surprise.

We started the session with a focus on the car and their connection near their room. After several different combinations, Mr. F. moved the car to the lower lot to the side of the buiding (the architecture there is so classic and cool). After a few more combinations and poses, I backed up and told them to focus on each other, and ignore me [if you know me

Mr. F. knew his cue...and a couple of minutes later, a very surprised Miss L. decided that she'd like to spend the rest of her life with him! What a great evening!! It truly was a dream, and I'm always so honored when people choose me to capture their important life milestones. I am truly blessed by each of these special moments. God is so so good!

We finished the session with some "vintage" shots in the impeccably clean, very retro motel room. The balcony outside the room was an added bonus, and made for a sweet finale to a wonderful evening! I hope you love this session as much as I did!!!