A Picture-Perfect Proposal at the Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve Puerto Rico
Rumors swirl around it hasn’t hit her yet.
As a wedding and proposal photographer in Puerto Rico, I’ve been fortunate to witness countless love stories unfold in breathtaking locations across the island. But few experiences compare to the heartfelt and meticulously planned proposal of Yannick and Brionna at the luxurious Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve in Río Grande, Puerto Rico.
Yannick, a kind-hearted high school teacher originally from Georgia and now based in Houston, Texas, reached out to me all the way back in May. He had one mission in mind: to propose to his longtime girlfriend, Brionna, in paradise. What stood out from the very beginning was his dedication—not just to making the moment special, but to planning it all in between teaching classes. Our first FaceTime meeting was squeezed in right before one of his lessons started, a true testament to his commitment.
Planning the Perfect Proposal in Puerto Rico
The ring shot.
Our first virtual meeting gave us a chance to break the ice and talk through logistics. While we had to pick up the conversation again later, we ultimately aligned on the vision—and that’s when the magic started taking shape.
The proposal date: June 7th. As always, communication with my proposal clients is kept discreet. Texting becomes the primary mode of contact, and I make sure to stay out of sight to preserve the element of surprise. As a seasoned proposal photographer in Puerto Rico, I know that anticipation is high and nerves can run wild. My job is not only to capture the moment but to ease those nerves.
But with Yannick? That wasn’t the case.
He was the picture of calm. Confident, soft-spoken, and clearly grounded in love, he seemed to know Brionna’s answer before he ever got down on one knee. That quiet confidence was both rare and refreshing.
Collaborating with Incredible Vendors
That’s a happy face if I’ve ever seen one.
This proposal also introduced me to a fantastic new vendor: PR Foam by Designs, led by the lovely Leslie. She brought the "Marry Me" sign that anchored the decor and was an absolute joy to work with. We coordinated our positioning to ensure I could capture the sign, the moment, and the emotions from just the right angle—without being seen.
Pamela, a Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve team member, also played a pivotal role. She went above and beyond to help set the stage, organizing rose petals and even arranging a golf cart ride to the proposal spot. It’s this level of coordination that makes proposals not just successful but unforgettable.
The Moment of Truth
Gotta get in a good silhouette shot.
Hiding behind tall bushes near the decor setup, I tracked the couple’s approach, my Canon RF 70-200mm f/2.8 ready in hand. This lens is my go-to for discreetly capturing intimate moments from a distance, ensuring the surprise remains intact until the very last second.
And then—it happened.
Giggles, happy tears, and the unmistakable sound of joy filled the air. After Brionna said "yes," Yannick let out a triumphant “She said YES!” loud enough to echo all the way back to Houston. It was beautiful, spontaneous, and perfectly him.
When I finally introduced myself, I was met with a bear hug from Yannick and happy tears from Brionna. A quick makeup touch-up later, we headed to the beach for romantic, sun-drenched portraits against the golden shoreline.
Capturing Iconic Puerto Rican Backdrops
Smitten.
No shoot at the Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve is complete without photos under the iconic dome—an architectural gem beloved by local wedding photographers. This was my first time shooting there, and it felt like a rite of passage. As someone who’s recently delved deeper into flash photography, I saw the dome as the perfect canvas to flex some creative lighting.
With the couple posed center-dome, I used a diffused soft box and two strategically hidden flashes with colored gels. The result? A majestic blend of warm sunset hues and soft lighting—dramatic, romantic, and unforgettable.
Why Puerto Rico is Perfect for Proposals
Rite of passage.
Puerto Rico offers everything: stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and luxurious resorts like the Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve. For couples seeking a unique, romantic, and visually stunning place to start forever, it’s hard to beat this island. And if you’re looking for a proposal or wedding photographer who knows how to blend artistry with emotion, you’ve come to the right place.
From the planning to the lighting, from hiding in the bushes to sharing hugs under domes, this is what I live for. Helping couples create and capture memories in Puerto Rico that will last a lifetime. If you’re ready to take the leap and propose in Puerto Rico, let’s make it epic.
