Matt & Juliana’s Emotional Waterfront Proposal in Freeport, NY

After four years together, Matt planned a proposal for Juliana that was thoughtful down to the smallest detail.

Their love story began in Boston, when Juliana was attending grad school at Northeastern University and Matt, a graduate of Boston University (my alma mater, go Terriers!), met her during that chapter of life. When Juliana later moved home to Rockville Centre, they navigated long distance which strengthened their relationship even more. About a year ago, they moved in together in Brooklyn, officially beginning their shared life in New York.


Matt knew he wanted to propose somewhere meaningful; somewhere connected to family, water, and the place Juliana has always loved most: Long Island.

A man lifts his new fianceé and swings her around after proposing to her along the water in Long Island, NY.
A couple shares a romantic moment together on a boat dock wearing coordinating navy and floral outfits, featuring her new engagement ring.

A September Morning She’ll Never Forget

On a quiet September morning, Matt told Juliana they were heading to her family’s house. Nothing seemed out of the ordinary. But instead of going straight there, he suggested they take a walk along the water near Guy Lombardo Marina.


The marina was peaceful that morning; the kind of calm, beautiful setting that lets a moment fully unfold.

As they walked along the waterfront, Matt stopped and turned to her. Within seconds, he was down on one knee.

Juliana was immediately overcome with emotion. Tears streamed down her face as she said yes, and Matt lifted her up and swung her around, both of them fully in the moment. It was one of those rare moments where everything else fades away.


Surprises Within a Surprise

Just when Juliana thought the moment couldn’t get any more special, their families appeared, surprising them with flowers and hugs to celebrate the newly engaged couple! After lots of hugs, happy tears and showing off the ring, we snapped some photos with their families to commemorate the moment.


But Matt’s planning didn’t stop there.


After taking photos at the proposal spot, we walked together toward the marina, where another surprise was waiting: a private boat, just for the two of them. Matt had planned everything. He brought Juliana’s favorite snacks, packed a blanket, and even included a change of shoes so she could be comfortable on the boat. Every detail reflected how well he knows her and how much he cares. I captured photos as they walked onto the dock, stepped aboard the boat, and soaked in the reality of being newly engaged.


What Juliana didn’t know yet was that the surprises weren’t over. Later that day, she would walk into her home and find a full engagement party waiting, surrounded by family and friends.


Why Long Island Is One of the Best Places to Propose in New York

Long Island offers some of the most beautiful and meaningful proposal locations in New York. With its marinas, beaches, waterfront paths, and quieter atmosphere, it creates space for intimate, emotional moments like this one.

For couples who have roots there (or simply love the ocean), it’s an incredible alternative to busier locations in New York City.


As a New York proposal photographer, I’ve found that waterfront locations like this allow couples to feel present, relaxed, and fully themselves. The setting enhances the moment without overwhelming it. Matt’s proposal was the perfect example of how thoughtful planning, meaningful locations, and personal details come together to create something unforgettable.


Planning Your Own Long Island or New York Proposal

The best proposals aren’t just beautiful, they’re personal. Matt didn’t just choose a scenic location. He chose a place connected to Juliana’s family, her love of the water, and their shared future.

If you’re planning a proposal in Long Island or anywhere in New York, the most important thing is choosing a location and experience that reflects your relationship! When you combine intention, preparation, and the right setting, the result is a moment you’ll never forget.

A couple shares a romantic moment by the waterfront with boats and docks in the background in Long Island, NY.
A couple shares a romantic proposal moment on a waterfront dock with water and greenery in the background in Long Island, NY.
A romantic proposal moment takes place on a wooden dock overlooking a serene waterfront on a sunny day.
Two people share a tender moment on a wooden dock by a serene lake on a sunny afternoon.
A couple embraces by the waterfront, with her wearing a navy floral dress and him in a striped shirt and khakis.
A romantic black and white photo of a couple embracing outdoors, with her wearing a floral dress and him in stripes.
Romantic couple embraces by the water, wearing blue striped shirt and navy floral dress on a sunny day.
A couple sits together on a wooden bench overlooking a serene waterfront view.
A couple embraces in a romantic moment by the waterfront, with one person lifting the other in a joyful spin.
Couple embraces by waterfront with woman wearing navy floral dress and man in blue striped shirt and khaki pants.
A couple stands together on a waterfront path, dressed in coordinating summer outfits.
A diamond engagement ring in a black velvet box held up against a blurred waterfront background.
A couple shares a joyful moment together outdoors while sitting close and smiling.
A couple walks hand in hand along a waterfront path in contrasting outfits.
A couple poses together outdoors wearing coordinated summer attire near the water.

Planning a proposal in New York?


I have experience planning and photographing proposals across New York (especially in NYC, Westchester, and Long Island) and I'd love to help you create and document the perfect surprise! Reach out and I will give you more info on my proposal packages and we can discuss how to craft an unforgettable proposal!