The Chanler at Cliff Walk - one of the best locations on the island
Roger’s proposal to Mary at The Chanler at Cliff Walk was an absolute success! First of all—he chose arguably the best proposal location in all of Newport. The Chanler has it all: breathtaking ocean views, luxurious rooms, exceptional dining, and a level of service that is truly unmatched. Their attention to detail is why they’re famous, and it shows in every experience.
Roger and Mary traveled from NYC to Little Rhody so he could ask his Mary the big question on a Saturday afternoon, right on the front lawn overlooking Easton Beach and the Atlantic. It was a bit chilly and windy, the sun hadn’t quite broken through yet… but none of it mattered. The moment was perfect.
We coordinated everything via text—timing, exit plan, exact walking path—so I could be hidden on the side of the lawn behind some bushes, camera ready. Yes… this is exactly how surprise proposals work and I love every second of it. The planning, the precision, the angles, even considering which way the wind will blow so her hair isn’t flying across her face during the proposal. Call it OCD if you want—I call it thoughtful, intentional, and prepared.
After she said yes (with the biggest smile!), we explored the grounds of The Chanler before hopping in my car and heading to Salve Regina’s Ochre Court, one of Newport’s iconic mansion backdrops. By then, the sun had come out and lit up a cluster of red maple trees across the street, so of course we stopped—because when the light shows up that perfectly, you follow it.
We then headed to Ledge Road for sunset, one of my favorite spots. But today? Way too cold. The wind was ruthless, the clouds were moving in so we wrapped quickly - no sunset for us! While brainstorming our next stop, I remembered a huge rock on Easton’s Beach and my creative brain went into overdrive. What if I could use it for a dramatic, lit silhouette? Spoiler: it worked. (Photo above!) Sometimes when Plan A doesn’t pan out, it pushes you into something even more creative.
If you know light—and how to use it—weather can’t stop you. You simply shape it, move with it, and make magic wherever you are.
Voilà!
