Point Dume Surprise Proposal in Malibu | A Romantic Cliffside Engagement for a New York Couple
Malibu • California
Stephanie Ip Photography
Table of contents
Southern California Proposal & Wedding Photographer
We’re Stephanie and Bryan— a husband-and-wife duo who believe that life’s most meaningful moments deserve to be captured and cherished. Stephanie is the creative force behind the lens, and Bryan, a software engineer by day, is her biggest supporter in every endeavor. Together, we bring a dynamic blend of creativity, precision, and teamwork to every session.
When you imagine a dream California proposal, Point Dume in Malibu almost always comes to mind — dramatic cliffs, endless ocean views, and that unmistakable golden California light.
For CJ and Nichol, who flew in from New York for their very first trip to California, this wasn’t just another stop on an itinerary. It was the beginning of their next chapter. After ten years together, CJ planned a heartfelt surprise proposal overlooking the Pacific Ocean — a moment filled with sunshine, emotion, and the kind of joy you feel deep in your chest.
As a photographer, it’s always an honor to witness such a milestone — especially when a couple trusts us to help plan and quietly document a once-in-a-lifetime moment.
The Hike Up to the Perfect View
Their afternoon began with a relaxed walk and short hike up to the Point Dume overlook. The trail itself is approachable — roughly a 10–15 minute climb — making it ideal for surprise proposals where you want stunning views without an exhausting trek.
At the top, the payoff is immediate: sweeping ocean views, rugged cliffs, and a sense of openness that makes everything feel bigger and more meaningful.
We positioned ourselves discreetly behind the natural rock formations, blending into the surroundings to preserve the surprise. Moments like these are a reminder that proposals don’t need elaborate staging to feel extraordinary — sometimes, the location and the love are more than enough.
The Proposal Moment
As CJ and Nichol reached the overlook, the energy shifted. CJ took Nichol’s hands and began speaking about their decade together — the growth, the laughter, the shared life they’d built side by side.
Then came the moment Nichol never saw coming.
CJ dropped to one knee, the ocean stretching endlessly behind them. Without hesitation — and with happy tears — Nichol said yes.
Later, CJ shared with us:
“This is the happiest moment of my life. I’ve been dying to do this already — and I couldn’t have asked for a more perfect day.”
It was intimate, emotional, and beautifully real — exactly the kind of proposal that Point Dume does so well.
Champagne, Sunset, and Candid Laughter
After the proposal, the nerves melted away and the celebration began. A champagne pop sent bubbles sparkling in the late-afternoon light, followed by laughter, hugs, and that giddy “we’re actually engaged” feeling.
One of the sweetest parts of the session was watching CJ and Nichol record short video messages for family back home — especially this playful line directed at their moms:
“Mom, you can stop asking. It finally happened!”
From there, we eased into golden-hour portraits along the cliffs, letting them move naturally — dancing, laughing, and soaking in the view. As the sun dipped lower, we made our way down to the beach below, where they kicked off their shoes and walked barefoot along the shoreline.
Between the ocean breeze, warm light, and pure joy radiating from them, it was the kind of session that feels effortless from start to finish.
Planning a Surprise Proposal at Point Dume?
If you’re dreaming of a Point Dume surprise proposal in Malibu, this location is perfect for couples who want breathtaking scenery without heavy logistics. With thoughtful timing, discreet positioning, and a calm, supportive approach, your proposal can feel natural, emotional, and completely you.
Helpful Tips
📍 Point Dume, Malibu, California
📆 October 17th 2025 ☀️ Sunset at 6:19pm
🌡️ Clear sky weather
🎬 Start time at 5pm
Ready to Plan Your Own Surprise Proposal?
Whether you’re local or traveling in — we’d love to help you plan a seamless experience
and document every honest, beautiful moment. 💍✨
