Li & Chhay | San Francisco Proposal Photography

Chhay plotted this proposal months in advance. He knew that Li loves flash mob proposals, and so he set out to craft the perfect flash mob, just for her. Friends flew in from all over the country and even Canada, and they had all individually learned the dance routine via a secret tutorial video. Two hours before the real thing, they were rehearsing together for the first time. Everyone was surprisingly serious and focused. The skies over San Francisco wavered between gray clouds, slight drizzle, and occasional peeps of sunshine, but the plan was happening, rain or shine.

Meanwhile, Li had her suspicions that the proposal would be happening soon, especially since she had already glimpsed her engagement ring months prior (thanks to a not-quite-discreet-enough jeweler, unbeknownst to Chhay) and was constantly walking around with the looming “threat” of being proposed to. Plus, one of her well-meaning aunties had accidentally leaked the proposal date, March 1, with her premature congratulations. But with all the diversions and confusion that her friends created for her, she really still had no idea what to expect. And out of all the possibilities, an actual flash mob was the furthest thing from her mind! So, behold… a really adorable flash mob proposal, right in the center of Golden Gate Park, San Francisco! First, the rehearsal:

The groom-to-be getting himself ready:

Some congratulations gifts for after the proposal:

All of the flash mob participants sat on the benches in the center by the fountain, waiting for Li to approach with her friend Crystal. Crystal was visiting California “for work” (but really just for the proposal), and had concocted a story about going to a photography exhibit’s premier party at the California Academy of Sciences, which is how she got Li to dress up and be in the right place at the right time.

Chhay stealthily looks for Li out of the corner of his eye, and then… cue music!

Happily walking down toward the fountain, not knowing what awaits.

Surprise!

Chhay delivered his speech and the proposal flawlessly.

She said yes, of course!

Calling the parents.

Love! I just love capturing all these emotions right after the proposal. Everyone is just overflowing with happiness and excitement.

The sun even came out to help backlight a couple of these gorgeous portraits.

Congratulations, Li & Chhay! This was such a perfectly fitting proposal for the both of you. And thank you to my friend Margaret, who used to be Li’s roommate in New York City, for making the connection and inviting me along to capture the day! I’ve always wanted to witness a flash mob proposal. =)

Anna Wu is a wedding and portrait photographer based in San Francisco. She has become quite adept at hiding in unexpected spots during people’s surprise proposals. Follow her adventures on Facebook or contact her to inquire about your own proposal plans.