Surprise Scottsdale Proposal at Omni Scottsdale Resort and Spa at Montelucia

A beautiful proposal story captured in one of Arizona’s top luxury resorts

Real Clients, Real Moments
by David Orr Photography

Jonathan wanted his surprise proposal location to be an ideal combination of iconic Arizona scenery and comfort, without the need for extended travel or a hike. He also wanted an exclusive location that wasn’t overrun with the crowds of people that naturally flock to these beautiful spots. 

So he chose the Omni Scottsdale Resort and Spa at Montelucia, for its unobstructed views of rugged Camelback Mountain, and for its many exceptional resort comforts, including luxury spa treatments, poolside cabana service, and Spanish-inspired fine dining. To make the moment even more elegant and classy, Jonathan booked the Camelback Presidential Suite, a private 2,800-square-foot villa, to host both the proposal and a surprise reception afterward.

He also invited me to be his stealthy photographer to capture the proposal story as it unfolded!

The day of the proposal

Jonathan and his girlfriend Dennise stopped in at one of the Omni’s bars to grab cocktails before taking a leisurely stroll on the property. Jonathan eventually led Dennise to the gates of the Camelback Presidential Suite. Dennise of course had no idea that Jonathan had reserved the spot, and upon seeing the private entrance sign, she refused to enter.

Jonathan patiently insisted, saying they could just take a quick peak of the outside patio for a nice view of Camelback Mountain. Dennise was persuaded, and they walked up the stone steps together, past red rose petals and white Moroccan filigree lanterns, which heightened Dennise’s suspense that someone else had reserved the spot.

Once they reached the lawn, Jonathan led Dennise over to a stunning view of Camelback Mountain, and dropped to one knee to launch into his heartfelt proposal.

Two surprises in one!

Dennise was absolutely surprised, realizing that the rose petals and lanterns were all for her! She said yes, and Jonathan stood up and gave her a warm embrace and romantic kiss. Then Jonathan placed a gorgeous engagement ring on her finger while she tried to catch her breath.

Of course, Jonathan had one more surprise up his sleeve

He had arranged for both of their families to travel to Scottsdale for the occasion, and they were now quietly waiting on the lawn right behind Dennise to congratulate her! Dennise turned around and was absolutely delighted to see her parents, family and close friends there! Tears, hugs, smiles, and champagne all flowed freely.

Following the congratulations, we took time for some family portraits on the Camelback lawn.

Then we hopped aboard a golf cart and were whisked away to the front of the resort property to take some engagement portraits in the Omni’s incredible Cortijo Plaza.

We took advantage of the stunning backdrop of Spanish-inspired architecture, vine-covered archways, fountains, and the massive Spanish-imported, 16th-century palace doors on the entrance of Castillo Lucena, the private event and wedding venue locale.  

After our engagement portrait session, Jonathan and Dennise returned to the Camelback Villa for hors d’oeuvres and drinks with their family, and continued the celebration with a specially catered dinner inside the villa’s dining room! Congrats Jonathan and Dennise!

Ever considered getting proposal photography at an Arizona resort?

Resorts offer some of the most romantic proposal spots, but did you know that most resorts only allow photography specifically for their exclusive guests, and often even require you to book an event space package for the privilege of having a photo session on their property?

Each resort has its own rules about celebrating events, even small ones like proposals and engagements 

We have worked with several resorts in Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Paradise Valley, and when you book photography with us, we will gather current information and help you coordinate appropriate permission for both your proposal and your photo shoot at a local resort.

Let’s plan a surprise proposal together!

Fill out our quick form, and we’ll reach out to you, pronto!

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Thanks for reading, and hope you are inspired and excited!
- Amanda and David Orr