A Surprise Engagement on Galiano Island: Ashton & Gabby

When Ashton reached out in June with a fun, adventurous request – a surprise engagement on Galiano Island – I was immediately on board. After coordinating back and forth by email, we settled on a plan: Ashton and his girlfriend, (soon-to-be fiancée) Gabby, would be spending a weekend on Galiano, and he wanted to propose at the top of the Bodega Ridge trail. He asked if I was okay with a 30-minute hike to get there. Never one to turn down a challenge, I said yes without hesitation.

I caught the Friday morning ferry over, ready for what was shaping up to be a magical day. I started my hike up the trail about 20 minutes before Ashton and Gabby, sending him photos of the path and directions as I went – fingers crossed that Gabby wasn’t seeing the texts on his phone! Sweaty and out-of-breath, I finally reached the top, refueled myself with water and trail mix, and prepared for the big moment. I set up a little pretend picnic, snapped some shots of the stunning view, and greeted them with a quick, casual “hello” as they walked past. Gabby had absolutely no idea what was coming ;P

Our signal for “go time” was Ashton setting up an iPhone tripod to film the proposal. I quietly slipped into position behind Gabby’s back and started capturing the moment. When Ashton popped the question, of course, Gabby said yes 🙂 The joy and shock of the moment were just so lovely. After giving them a few minutes alone to soak it all in, we did some posed photos at that breathtaking viewpoint, the water and islands below providing the perfect backdrop.

After about half an hour, I left them to enjoy the view – and the incredible new ring – while I began my hike back down. The descent was much easier, and I spent the rest of the day exploring the island before catching my evening ferry home.

Ashton and Gabby’s engagement session was more than just photos; it was an adventure, a celebration, and a memory that will last a lifetime (for me too!). I feel so grateful to have been part of such a special moment in their love story.

Eran Sudds is a Tsawwassen photographer who specializes in fun & natural sessions for you and your entire family. She is available for maternity, newborn, family portraits and headshots at locations in South Delta, or anywhere in the Lower Mainland. Contact her to book your session!