An Engagement-Moon on Aruba

Destination weddings have been trending for several years now, and gaining popularity is the “engagement-moon.”  Exotic locales certainly make the perfect backdrop for this special moment in time, and Baltimore couple Christina and CJ captured the spirit of their sunset beach proposal with wedding photographer Kenny Theysen.  

The couple planned a family vacation to Aruba with CJ’s family. Christine shares the story behind her surprise proposal: 

“This would be my first family vacation with CJ's family. After a full day of traveling to Aruba, CJ's family met us for dinner on the beach. We were looking for something low key and casual since it was a long day. I had no idea that he had anything planned. His family seemed very impatient during dinner, which was not normal for them. Usually, they love to sit back, drink, and enjoy the company of everyone when we go out to dinner together. Halfway through dinner CJ leaned over to me and asked if I'd like to take a walk on the beach after dinner. I, of course, said yes.  

“The plan was to go for a walk and meet his family at the bar afterwards. After dinner we went for a walk. Because dinner had taken longer than they originally expected, the sun had already set. Half way down the beach, CJ got down on one knee and proposed. I was beyond surprised and quickly found out that EVERYONE we knew had already been tipped off on the surprise engagement. In fact, my mother had sent surprise engagement party cards the day before we even left on our trip to Aruba.

I guess she knew I'd say yes!  

“Back to the proposal...after we shared a moment together, we rejoined his family, who were also waiting to congratulate us on the beach with champagne. Unable to join us all in Aruba, CJ's parents arranged for my family to be on Skype so that they could all congratulate us and not miss the special moment.” 

CJ’s parents had arranged for Kenny to take pictures the following day at the same spot where they were engaged, as well as other beautiful locales on the island.