A Cozy Big Bear Proposal at Postcard Cabin: Hidden in the Pines and Full of Heart
Big Bear • Los Angeles • 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.
About Postcard Cabin
Postcard Cabin is part of the Getaway Big Bear property, a collection of tiny, dog-friendly cabins designed for digital detox and reconnection.
Inside, the cabin is thoughtfully minimalist — a queen-sized bed facing a massive window, a tiny kitchen, and a fire pit outside perfect for roasting s’mores (yes, they include a kit!).
Dog owners will love the little touches: complimentary treats, waste bags, and hiking maps with nearby pet-friendly trails. It’s clear that this place was designed for travelers who want nature, comfort, and simplicity — all at once.
A Hidden Gem in Big Bear
There’s something about Big Bear that feels like time slows down — pine trees whispering in the wind, wood-smoke curling through crisp mountain air, and golden light peeking through the forest canopy.
For couples who crave a peaceful, private setting for their proposal, it doesn’t get more romantic than the Postcard Cabin at Getaway Big Bear.
When our couple arrived for their winter stay, they had no idea what was waiting for them later that afternoon. We’d been secretly scouting angles and light since morning of, quietly blending in among the trees like undercover agents — complete with backpacks, camera gear, and our dog Shabu bundled up against the cold.
The Secret Setup
Because check-in hadn’t officially started, we couldn’t be inside our cabin yet. Instead, we staked out a quiet forest road nearby with just enough clearance between the pines to frame the proposal scene beautifully.
The challenge? Crunchy leaves, cold temperatures, and unpredictable mountain light.
Every step risked giving away the surprise. Bryan adjusted tripods and lenses while I tested exposures in near silence, making sure our setup looked as natural as possible to passing cars or cabin guests.
The forest was alive with soft movement — the kind that makes you hold your breath a little. It’s the quiet that always comes before a moment you know you’ll never forget.
The Moment She Said Yes
The couple set out on what seemed like an ordinary dog-walk — leash in hand, bundled in cozy layers. Just as they reached the clearing, he stopped, turned to her, and dropped to one knee.
The next few seconds blurred into laughter, tears, and the happiest kind of disbelief. Their pup, Laney, immediately bounded toward them, tail wagging as if she’d been in on the secret all along.
From behind the trees, we captured it all — the pure emotion, the forest glow, the mountain quiet. It felt intimate, cinematic, and deeply personal.
Post-Proposal Portraits in the Pines
After a few minutes to soak it all in, we transitioned into a short engagement mini session.
We guided them along the dirt path where light filtered through the trees, capturing soft, candid moments — the ring glinting in the sun, the dog trotting between them, laughter echoing through the woods.
When the sun dipped lower, the light turned golden and dreamy. We finished with a few playful running shots and quiet embraces by the cabin entrance — the kind of images that feel less like posing and more like reliving a memory.
Lighting Tips for Cabin Proposals
Big Bear’s elevation and dense pine canopy mean light fades earlier than you’d expect.
Here are a few notes from this shoot to help future proposers plan the timing perfectly:
- Start 60–90 minutes before sunset for a balance of warmth and brightness.
- Avoid deep-forest spots where the tree cover blocks all overhead light — open clearings photograph best.
- If possible, schedule your proposal on a clear day after snowfall — the snow naturally reflects light and adds cinematic glow.
Including Your Dog in the Proposal
Having a dog along for the proposal adds a layer of heart that’s impossible to stage.
A few quick tips if you’re planning to include your pup:
- Bring a neutral-colored leash or harness that won’t distract in photos.
- Let them walk first to settle their energy before the big moment.
- Have treats ready to reward them (and keep them nearby afterward for portraits!).
Laney’s excitement during this proposal gave us some of the most genuine, joy-filled frames of the day.
Reflections on This Day
There’s something incredibly grounding about capturing love in a place like Big Bear — away from crowds, surrounded by pine-scented air and mountain silence.
This proposal reminded us that intimacy doesn’t require elaborate setups; sometimes, all you need is a quiet forest, a heartfelt question, and the people (and pets) who matter most.
Helpful Tips
📍 Running Springs, California 
December 7th 2024 
Sunset 4:45pm 
Clear sky weather 
Start time at 2pm
Location: Postcard Cabin, Getaway Big Bear
Accessibility: Drive-up parking, short walking paths
Dog Policy: Fully dog-friendly with welcome kit
Best Light: Late afternoon (start 1–1.5 hrs before sunset)
Nearest Landmarks: Big Bear Lake, Bluff Lake Reserve, Castle Rock Trail
Ideal Season: Fall through early spring for cooler tones and clearer skies
Thinking about proposing in Big Bear?
We’d love to plan your surprise proposal with you and for you!
Check out our available packages and contact us when you are ready to start planning!
