A Sunset Surprise: Taimur & Roxana’s Secret Proposal at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel


May 25, 2025



Some stories are written in the soft golden light of a California sunset—and this one began with a secret.


Taimur reached out to plan a moment that would change both of their lives forever: a surprise proposal for Roxana at the stunning Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel. Nestled atop the cliffs of Dana Point, this luxurious coastal resort provided the perfect backdrop for a memory they’ll never forget.


Every detail was thoughtfully planned, and the day couldn’t have been more beautiful. The skies were clear, the ocean calm, and as the golden hour approached, the cliffs came alive with soft hues of pink and amber. It felt like nature itself was in on the surprise.

Coastal hillside landscape with green lawn and colorful floral garden overlooking a misty bay and mountain vista.
A romantic proposal moment on a scenic cliffside overlooking the ocean with lush landscaping and coastal views.
A romantic outdoor moment between two people embracing on grassy lawn, wearing a floral dress and white shirt.

As Roxana walked toward the cliffside garden, she had no idea what was waiting. With the sound of waves below and a soft breeze in the air, Taimur got down on one knee. Her reaction was filled with pure joy and emotion—exactly the kind of moment I live for as a photographer.


It’s worth noting that this location does require a permit fee for professional photography. But trust me—it’s absolutely worth it. The dramatic cliffs, peaceful surroundings, and golden coastal light make it one of the most stunning proposal spots in all of Southern California.

Black and white view of a Mediterranean-style beachfront hotel with palm trees and walking path along the Pacific coast.
Couple embraces on grassy hilltop overlook with vibrant purple flowers and coastal beach view at sunset.
Black and white aerial view of a coastal landscape with rolling hills and curved shoreline along the ocean.

The sunset that followed seemed to celebrate with them, casting the most magical light across the scene. We spent some quiet moments capturing their first photos as fiancés, surrounded by the timeless beauty of Laguna Niguel.

A couple strolling together on a landscaped lawn with flowering gardens and coastal mountains in the background.
Couple embraces on lush green lawn overlooking coastal bay with colorful flowers and ocean view in background.
Hands exchanging wedding rings during an outdoor ceremony against a green background.
Happy couple sharing a joyful moment outdoors on a grassy lawn overlooking a waterfront landscape.
A couple embraces and laughs together outdoors in a garden, with the woman wearing a floral print dress.
Couple stands on lush green lawn overlooking coastal cliffs and ocean views during romantic photoshoot.
A romantic couple embraces on a lush green lawn overlooking a scenic coastal bay with mountains and flowers in the background.
A couple standing on grass, with him wearing khakis and her in a floral dress, photographed from the knees down.
A romantic couple embraces on a grassy hilltop overlooking mountains, with the woman wearing a floral dress and man in white shirt.
A couple walks along a green lawn path lined with palm trees and Spanish colonial architecture at a luxury resort.
A couple shares a romantic dance together outdoors in a scenic mountain setting with lush greenery.
A couple shares a romantic moment in a hillside garden filled with vibrant flowers on a sunny day.
Close-up of hands displaying an engagement ring while standing on grass, with floral dress and khaki pants visible.
Two people dance playfully on a palm-lined walkway with white walls and lush landscaping at a coastal venue.
Couple walks down white stairway with stunning California coastal views and palm trees in background.
Couple in romantic sunset moment on coastal balcony overlooking mountains and ocean.
A couple walks along a path beside beautiful white Mediterranean-style beachfront villas with blue umbrellas and palm trees.
A couple poses together on a white walkway outside a Mediterranean-style building with blue awnings and lush gardens.
A couple stands along a scenic white wall walkway with palm trees and flowering plants on a sunny day.
A person in a floral robe stands on a tropical balcony with mountain views, waving and smiling on terracotta tiles.

Taimur and Roxana, thank you for letting me be part of such a meaningful chapter in your story. Your love, your energy, and that breathtaking view—it all came together in the most unforgettable way.


Here’s to a lifetime of sunsets and surprises.

— Dmitrii