The Carmel Proposal Co.

Full-Service Proposal Planning in Carmel & Big Sur

Carmel & Big Sur, California

Your Dream Proposal, Seamlessly Planned

From the ring to the yes — we craft unforgettable proposals in Carmel and Big Sur with stunning photography, cinematic video, and personalized planning.

What We Do

One-of-a-Kind Proposals with Full-Service Support

We specialize in luxury proposal experiences that go beyond the photo. From selecting the perfect coastal overlook to coordinating florals, champagne, and capturing the exact moment, we guide you through every step — so you can focus on the “yes

✔️ Permits & Logistics

✔️ Planning Consultation

✔️ Exact map + meeting spot

✔️ Hidden Photographer Coverage

✔️ No Travel Fees

Surprise proposal at Garrapata State Park overlooking the ocean

What I Help You With

You don’t need to plan this alone. I’ve got you.

Planning a proposal from afar can feel overwhelming — but that’s exactly where I come in. From location scouting to timing, weather, and how to pull off the surprise, I’ll guide you every step of the way so everything feels easy and effortless (for both of you).

When you book, I’ll help you with:

✔️ Location Guidance

  • Custom recommendations based on privacy, views, ease of access, and time of day

  • Google Maps pins + a private location guide for Carmel & Big Sur

  • Permit information (especially for Big Sur & state parks)

✔️ Proposal Timing & Lighting

  • Sunset or golden hour timing advice

  • Blue hour or post-proposal portraits if you want that editorial vibe

✔️ Detailed Planning Support

  • Customized timeline for your day

  • Walking instructions, where to stand, how to cue me

  • A map + visual reference so you feel totally prepared

✔️ Vendor Referrals & Add-Ons

  • Florals, musicians, mini picnic setup, champagne toasts

  • Hair and makeup artist or stylist if you're booking a post-proposal shoot

✔️ Photography & Video Direction

  • Candid documentation of the moment

  • Gentle posing tips for portraits afterward

  • Cinematic video add-ons available for select packages

✔️ Proposal Ideas & Personalization

  • Creative ideas for making it unique to your relationship

  • Helping you write your speech or letter if you need support

✔️ Quick Turnaround

  • Sneak peeks within 48 hours so you can relive and share the moment fast

Meet Your Carmel Proposal Co. Photographer.

I’m Erin, and I’m here to help you pull off the perfect “yes.”

the carmel proposal co photographer erin venable sitting in studio

Proposals are some of the most meaningful moments I get to document — and they happen fast. That’s why I do so much more than just show up with a camera. I help you find the perfect location, create a detailed plan, and make sure you feel completely prepared when the big moment comes.

As a local photographer based in Monterey, I know all the best hidden beaches, quiet cliff overlooks, and soft golden light pockets that make Carmel and Big Sur feel so magical. I’m here to guide you, calm your nerves, and document every emotion — from the lead-up to the tears to the overwhelming joy afterward.

My style is warm, romantic, and timeless — with a focus on natural emotion, cinematic light, and capturing the details that make your story yours.

Whether you’re planning from across the country or just down the coast, I’ll be your partner in creating a proposal experience that feels effortless, elevated, and unforgettable.

Let’s make it official ✨

Based in Monterey, CA
Serving Carmel, Big Sur, Pebble Beach, and beyond

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Couple hugging and crying during a proposal at Çarmel Beach

Why Choose Carmel or Big Sur for Your Proposal?

Effortless romance meets once-in-a-lifetime views.

From windswept cliffs to golden beaches, Carmel and Big Sur offer some of the most breathtaking proposal locations in California — and the world. Whether you're envisioning an intimate sunset moment by the ocean or a dramatic coastal backdrop surrounded by redwoods, this stretch of the Central Coast delivers magic at every turn.

Here’s why couples from around the globe choose to propose here:

Choosing Big Sur means:

✔️ Effortless romance meets once-in-a-lifetime views. The mix of rugged cliffs, crashing waves, and soft golden light makes every moment feel cinematic. Carmel’s charm and Big Sur’s raw beauty create a storybook setting — no filter needed.

✔️ Endless iconic locations Choose from secluded coastal overlooks, fairytale forest trails, white sand beaches, or quiet garden paths in Carmel-by-the-Sea. I’ll help you find the perfect one for your vision.

✔️ Picture-perfect in every season Whether it’s fog rolling over the cliffs, a glowing sunset, or spring wildflowers in bloom — this coast offers stunning backdrops year-round for timeless proposal photos.

✔️ A full experience, not just a photo Proposing in Carmel or Big Sur turns your engagement into a mini-getaway. Enjoy charming inns, wine tastings, cliffside dining, spa days, or hikes — making the whole trip unforgettable.

✔️ Privacy + intimacy Unlike crowded city proposals, I help you find quiet, intimate moments to pop the question without a crowd — just the two of you and nature.

✔️ Effortless Luxury From Michelin-star dining and boutique spas to clifftop resorts, you can turn your proposal trip into an unforgettable mini-moon.

Carmel/Big Sur Proposal Photography Packages

The Full-Service Proposal Experience

1 hour session | Video | 30 edited images | Plus custom experience

Best for: Clients who want everything done for them

Includes:

  • 1-hour session

  • Photo + 4K video

  • Florals, picnic, champagne (outsourced/vendor costs included)

  • Complete proposal planning (timeline, maps, weather plan)

  • Gallery + sneak peeks + proposal film

$2,000+

The Cinematic Proposal

1 hour session | Video | 30 edited images

Best for: Content-focused clients

Includes:

  • 1-hour session

  • 4K video + photography

  • 30 images + sneak peeks

  • Proposal moment + portraits

  • Planning support, location guide, timeline

  • Includes video editing

$1,200.00

The Classic Proposal

1 hour session | 1 location | 30 edited images


Best for: Proposals + portraits

Includes:

  • 1-hour session

  • Proposal coverage + romantic portraits

  • 30 images + sneak peeks

  • Planning consult + location guide

  • Optional: add-on video, florals, picnic

$950.00

30 minute session | 1 location | 15 edited images


Best for: Minimalist, budget-conscious clients

Includes:

  • 30-min session

  • One curated location

  • 15 images

  • Planning consult + location guidance

  • Optional add-ons: video, bouquet, champagne

  • Travel fee may apply for Big Sur

The Simple Yes

$700.00

Add-Ons

  • Add video (simple, 1-camera, edited): $300

  • Bouquet: Starting at $125

  • Mini picnic setup: $350–$500

  • Same-day sneak peeks: $100

  • Full engagement session another day: $500–$700

How to book us

01. Inquire →

Tell us your vision and date

02. Plan →

We help with timing, location, and special touches

03. Plan →

You pop the question, we capture the magic

04. Celebrate →

Relive it all with dreamy photos + video

Testimonials

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Testimonials

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  • The Best Proposal Photographer in Carmel

    “Erin helped me pull off the perfect proposal in Carmel. She guided me through every step — from choosing the best location to timing the sunset just right. The photos brought both of us to tears. I couldn't have done it without her!”
    — James, Carmel-by-the-Sea proposal

  • Stress-Free Big Sur Proposal Planning

    “I was planning from out of state and had no idea where to start. Erin created a plan, picked the location, and made the whole thing effortless. It was everything I dreamed of and more. Big Sur never looked so magical.”
    — Alex, Big Sur proposal

  • The Proposal Video We’ll Treasure Forever

    “We added the video package and I’m so glad we did. The moment, the emotions, the setting — it was all captured perfectly. We’ve watched it 20 times already. Erin has such a calming presence and was amazing to work with.”
    — Marcus & Amanda, Carmel beach proposal

  • Erin Made It So Easy to Propose in Big Sur

    “She thought of everything — location guidance, exact walking paths, even how to position myself so the light was perfect. The whole experience was so thoughtfully planned, and the images are beyond beautiful.”
    — Chris, Big Sur cliffs proposal

  • Our Proposal Felt Like a Movie Scene

    “I wanted to surprise my girlfriend with a picnic, bouquet, and photos in Carmel. Erin not only found the ideal spot, she handled everything and made it feel like a real-life rom-com. 1000% recommend the full-service experience!”
    — Daniel, Carmel picnic proposal

Let’s Plan Your Carmel by the Sea or Big Sur Proposal

We’re currently booking summer and fall proposals in Carmel, Big Sur & Pebble Beach.

Only 5 full-service proposals booked per month to ensure the best experience.

Proposal Planning Resources:

Carmel and Big Sur Proposal Photography FAQs

  • Golden hour (the hour before sunset) offers the most flattering, dreamy lighting for photos. I’ll help you choose the perfect time based on your chosen location and vision — and we’ll build a custom timeline to make sure everything flows beautifully.

  • Absolutely. Once you book, I’ll send you a private proposal location guide with handpicked options across Carmel, Big Sur, and Pebble Beach. I’ll also provide walking directions, Google Maps pins, and parking info for a totally stress-free experience.

  • We’ll create a personalized plan that makes your partner think it’s just a casual photo session, walk, or special outing. I’ll give you tips on how to cue me, where to stand, and exactly how to time the big moment — you’ll be fully prepped and confident!

  • Yes! My Cinematic Proposal Experience includes a 4K video of your proposal moment, edited with licensed music. You can also add video coverage to other packages. It’s the perfect way to relive your partner’s reaction and share it with loved ones.

  • Definitely! I work with trusted local vendors who can provide romantic touches like bouquet delivery, styled picnic setups, champagne, and even musicians. Let me know what you have in mind — I’ll coordinate it all behind the scenes.

  • I recommend booking at least 1 month in advance, especially for weekend dates or sunset sessions. Last-minute proposals may be available — reach out and I’ll do my best to accommodate!

  • Yes! I regularly photograph proposals throughout Pebble Beach, Monterey, and even inland vineyards or coastal cliffs south of Big Sur. Just mention where you’re envisioning, and I’ll let you know what’s possible (including travel fees if needed).

  • You’ll receive personalized location suggestions, timing guidance, and a detailed plan — including visual reference maps and tips for making your proposal smooth and unforgettable. Think of me as your local guide and creative partner.

  • Just fill out the inquiry form or reach out directly via email or Instagram. I’ll follow up with availability and a proposal tailored to your needs. A signed contract and retainer are required to reserve your da

  • Yes! Many couples book a full engagement session after their proposal, either the next day or later during their trip. I also offer mini engagement portraits as part of select proposal packages.