Venice Beach Surprise Proposal: A Romantic DIY Setup with 75 Red Roses | Kat & Chris

Venice Beach • Los Angeles • California

Stephanie Ip Photography

Posted on January 25, 2025

Helpful Tips

Venice Beach, California
January 25th 2025 Sunset at 5:17pm
Overcast weather
Start time at 4:45pm

A Dreamy Venice Beach Proposal: Chris & Kat’s Special Moment

Venice Beach, with its mix of coastal charm and vibrant energy, set the perfect stage for Chris’s heartfelt surprise proposal to Kat. Wanting to make this moment extra special, Chris took it upon himself to set up a stunning DIY proposal setup—a heartfelt gesture that made the moment even more meaningful. With the help of his friend, he arranged 75 red roses in the sand, creating a breathtaking scene for Kat’s arrival. Even though the sunset wasn’t as dramatic as he had hoped due to an overcast sky, we brought in some warm lighting to enhance the ambiance, making sure every moment was beautifully captured.

If you’re planning your own DIY surprise proposal, here’s everything you need to know to make it seamless, romantic, and visually stunning!

How to Plan a DIY Beach Proposal: Lessons from Chris’s Setup

Setting up your own proposal can be incredibly rewarding, but it does require planning and a keen eye for detail. Here are the key takeaways from Chris & Kat’s Venice Beach engagement that can help you create a flawless moment of your own.

Romantic DIY beach proposal setup with red roses at Venice Beach, California. — How to Plan a DIY Beach Proposal

Photographer’s Tip:

1. Thoughtful Setup: Keeping It Simple Yet Impactful

Chris wanted to make his setup romantic yet minimal, allowing the natural beauty of the beach to shine through. He chose 75 red roses, symbolizing love and passion, and arranged them in the sand. The simplicity of this setup worked beautifully—it didn’t overwhelm the scene, yet it created an elegant and intimate setting.

DIY Proposal Tip:

Choose flowers or decor that won’t get blown away by the wind—placing the stems in the sand helped keep them in place.
If using candles or lanterns, opt for LED versions to avoid fire hazards and ensure they stay lit even in breezy conditions.
Consider a shape or formation—a heart or pathway of roses can add extra impact.

2. Timing & Lighting: Creating the Perfect Atmosphere

Chris originally envisioned a golden sunset as the backdrop for his proposal, but the weather had other plans—it was a completely overcast day. Instead of relying on natural light, we brought in a couple of flashlights with warm gels to create a soft, golden glow, mimicking sunset tones and adding warmth to the scene. The results? A beautifully lit, intimate moment that felt just as romantic as a natural sunset.

DIY Proposal Tip:

Check the weather forecast in advance and have a backup lighting plan in case of overcast skies.
Use warm lighting sources like portable LED panels or flashlights with warm gels to create a cozy, romantic feel.
If possible, propose during golden hour (one hour before sunset) to take advantage of soft, flattering natural light.

3. Logistics: Preparing for the Big Moment

To ensure a smooth execution, Chris enlisted his friend’s help in setting up the roses while he waited for Kat and her friend to arrive. Having an extra pair of hands allowed him to focus on the moment instead of stressing over last-minute setup details.

Additionally, Venice Beach can get crowded, so choosing a less busy area ensured more privacy for the proposal. Since it was an overcast day, there were fewer people around, making the moment feel even more personal.

DIY Proposal Tip:

Bring a friend or two to help with setup so you can focus on the moment.
Scout your location ahead of time to find a quieter, more private spot.
Have a plan for cleaning up afterward—beaches have strict rules about leaving decorations behind.

4. Capturing the Moment: DIY vs. Professional Photography

A proposal happens in a matter of seconds, and it’s a once-in-a-lifetime moment you’ll want to cherish forever. While some proposers prefer to have a friend capture the moment, Chris opted for professional photography to ensure every reaction, tear, and smile was beautifully documented.

Since we knew lighting could be tricky, we positioned ourselves ahead of time to capture the best angles while incorporating the beach, roses, and the couple’s emotional reactions all in one frame.

DIY Proposal Tip:

Decide whether you want a friend or a professional photographer to capture the moment—if it’s the latter, communicate your vision in advance.
Choose a photographer who has experience with proposals and understands how to anticipate the moment.
Consider hiring a videographer if you want to relive the moment through motion and sound.

Final Thoughts: Why DIY Proposals Can Be Extra Special

Chris’s Venice Beach surprise proposal was a testament to how a little effort and planning can create an unforgettable moment. Even though the sunset didn’t cooperate, the warmth and love in the scene made it even more magical. Whether you’re planning a simple setup like Chris’s or going all out with a full decor arrangement, the most important thing is that it reflects your love story.

If you’re planning a DIY proposal in Los Angeles and want professional photography to capture the moment, we’d love to help! Reach out to us today, and let’s make your dream proposal a reality.