This Niland proposal started when I got a random text from Keyln saying he needed to talk to our other close friend and me. Right when I got it, I instantly knew what it was about. Keyln & Maylene have been my friends now for less than two years. These two overflows with love and happiness. And I knew that they had their lives ahead of them, together! Nothing made me happier; until Keyln asked me to capture his proposal to Maylene.

The plan: to present the trip as a scouting job in Niland for a client, but really to give Maylene the best surprise of her life.

May was under the impression that I just needed a few models to test out some shots in the desert. I bribed her with new profile photos for social media, so she took the bait! Even before the actual proposal, it was all good vibes already. Along with two other close friends, they visited an independent museum in Slab City, dangerously teeter-totted on some unsafe machinery while laughing our asses off, we stuffed our faces with snacks Keyln thoughtfully prepared. And while driving around, we stumbled upon an abandoned structure near the Salton Sea. This was the spot! I knew it. Our friends knew it. Keyln knew it. As they walked up, Key and May played with the wind, took some photos, and danced on top of a huge tire. Soon after, Keyln gave me the official signal, and I stepped back. The moment was here. Everything that led to this was all a beautiful coincidence. The wind got quiet, and they were the only two there. Keylyn’s words were only for May's ears, but I saw it all pour out of her eyes. And just like that, they are engaged. They laughed, cried, and I got to capture it for them. After they got home, there was a surprise engagement party that Keyln planned with all of their friends and family. It was the perfect day.

My heart celebrates with these two. They are salt to the earth, and I am beyond honored to have been there, share my art and most especially, to be a part of their lives.