As most people know, Xavier was on the CBS TV show ‘Big Brother’ and won season 23. Before his stardom, he attended Spring Arbor University. Xavier played basketball and I played soccer. The athletes at SAU were usually good friends, always supporting and cheering each other on, which is how we became friends! So when he needed a Grand Rapids proposal photographer, he knew exactly who to call.

Why Xavier Chose Me as His Grand Rapids Proposal Photographer

When Xavier knew he was going to propose, he reached out to see if I would photograph it. I was so happy that he found his person and, of course, said I would loveeee to help him capture it! The Friday before the proposal, I drove down to Grand Rapids from Traverse City. We met at MDRD (pronounced “Madrid”) to scope it out.

Scouting the location is one of the most important things any Grand Rapids proposal photographer can do. MDRD is a beautiful restaurant on the 27th floor of the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel, and it was also a meaningful location because it just so happened to be the couple’s favorite restaurant in Grand Rapids.

I was in awe of the space when we first arrived. The restaurant overlooks the Grand River and downtown Grand Rapids. To make it even more romantic, Xavier chose to propose on the balcony outside. He told me his plan and I couldn’t wait to watch it unfold the next day.

Proposal Day: Behind the Scenes with a Grand Rapids Proposal Photographer

On the day of the proposal, Xavier sent Kenzie and her friend all around Grand Rapids to special places, while he stayed back at the hotel to set everything up. One of the special places he had planned for her to go was The BOB, a place special to them, as it’s where they met!

While Kenzie was out and about, Xavier set up large, white foam letters that spelled out “Marry Me” on the balcony at MDRD. We also scattered white and red rose petals on the ground with the ring box, holding the beautiful diamond ring from Rogers and Hollands, in the middle.

Xavier brought their families and friends to a private room upstairs in MDRD overlooking the balcony so they could watch the proposal. At this point, Kenzie still had no idea they were there. Some of their family and friends even flew into Grand Rapids for the special moment.

Capturing the “Yes!” as a Grand Rapids Proposal Photographer

Kenzie arrived at the hotel wearing a blindfold that read “Mrs. Prather.” Her friend guided her to Xavier, who then took her hand. Both of them, shaking with excitement, walked to the balcony. I held the door open to the beautiful setup as Xavier removed her blindfold and walked her out. He popped the question and she said “Yes!”

As their proposal photographer, I got to capture every giddy, joyful second. The two of them made their way up to their family and friends, who greeted them with smiles and happy tears. After many hugs and a champagne toast by Xavier, the couple spent the rest of the evening celebrating with their favorite people. Xavier made the day so special and memorable, not only for his future wife but also for the people who mean the most to them. Cheers to Xavier and the future Mrs. Prather!

As Seen in the News

There are now many, many news articles about this story. Check them out here: People, Enews, Entertainment Tonight, ET Canada, US Weekly, Daily Mail, Yahoo! News

Planning Your Own Surprise?

Book Me as Your Grand Rapids Proposal Photographer

A proposal only happens once, and you only get one chance to capture it! Whether you’re planning a rooftop surprise like Xavier’s, a quiet moment along the Grand River, or a scavenger hunt through the places that matter most to your relationship, I’d love to be your Grand Rapids proposal photographer.

We’ll scout the location with you, stay out of sight until the perfect moment, and deliver photos you’ll treasure long after the “Yes!”

Ready to lock in your date? Contact me today to book your Grand Rapids proposal photographer and let me help you capture the moment she’ll never forget.