As a Hoffman Estates proposal photographer, I enjoyed capturing this surprise proposal at the Schaumburg Airport.

When Akil first told me about his proposal plans, I was impressed. He had every single detail figured out to ensure that Dhara would be completely surprised.

Dhara’s brother told her that he won a free helicopter ride through a raffle at the Illinois Institute of Technology.

The day of the proposal, Akil called Dhara’s brother to let him know when exactly to arrive. Akil changed his voice, and pretended to be the helicopter pilot, just in case, Dhara was listening 🙂

When Dhara arrived at the airport, I pretended to be a photographer at the school’s student newspaper who was covering a story on the raffle winner. I first took a photo of Dhara with her brother in front of the helicopter. Then, a photo of just Dhara’s brother. Finally, I asked Dhara to stand in front of the helicopter.

Right on cue, Akil came out from the building beside the takeoff area. Dhara was posing for my camera, and didn’t see him walking towards her.

Akil said, “Hello beautiful.” It took Dhara a few moments before she turned around. You can tell by looking at these photos just how surprised she was.

The proposal was romantic and beautiful. It was also special because, Dhara’s brother and Akil’s sister were able to see the special moment.

Akil and Dhara first met while attending college at Northern Illinois University. You can tell in these photos how in love they are.

After the proposal and a few photos, the happy couple got on the helicopter for their ride to Chicago 🙂

Congrats on your engagement, Akil and Dhara! Thanks for letting me capture this amazing moment in your lives.

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