Wet and Wild Like West Virginia: Hallie and Jared's Marriage Proposal at Spruce Flats Falls
One of the best things about being a photographer in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the variety of settings that there are. I am always looking for more in “tucked away” corners of the park.
But when it comes to marriage proposals, it is important that I help the proposer choose a spot that is easy to find. Not always easy to get to, mind you, but easy to find as quite often this is the couple’s first time in the Smokies.
Easy to find … but not always easy to get to. Most of my clients for marriage proposals prefer that there be no strenuous hiking involved. Which is fine – got plenty of spots from which to choose for that. But some want a little adventure in their lives and would like to go to a spot that might take a little effort to get to.
Especially for waterfalls. And one of the nicest and least crowded is Spruce Flats Falls. Here are the facts: the tail to it is not long. But it is also not that easy.
But as Jared figured, you know, if Hallie is the center of his universe, then it is worth the walk. And besides, this beautiful couple hail from West Virginia, so they are used to mountains, and are not afraid to get a little sweaty and wet, as these pictures show:
I saw Jared in the position trying to set up his camera on a tripod. It is something he does in his travels with Hallie. But that gave me the perfect excuse to yell, “Hey, that looks like it is going to slip. Let me take your picture and I’ll send it to you!” Jared knew it was me and played along@
I once again am thankful for the kindness of strangers. There was a bit of a crowd on that warm afternoon but sure enough, once I let some in on what would happen, it is amazing how quickly they jump into the “plan.” “Okay, when they’re here, yell out, “Hey Mike, how’s it looking? Then I will signal that other couple and we will get out of the way.” People are kind and hey, they love a love story like the rest of us!
Now, let’s roll video . . .