I’m not gonna lie: this might be the most otterly adorable proposal I’ve ever photographed. Bryce planned the ultimate surprise for Madi—a private otter encounter at the North Georgia Wildlife & Safari Park that ended in a proposal!  They spent the afternoon playing games with and watching the otters show off their skills (10/10 would recommend), but little did Madi know that those otters had one more trick up their sleeves.

couple meets otters during exhibit at the North Georgia Wildlife & Safari Park

Proposal at the North Georgia Wildlife & Safari Park

At the very end of the experience, an otter waddled right over and delivered an empty ring box. Cue Bryce dropping to one knee and Madi’s shock turning into the biggest YES. I was working overtime to keep up with all the happy tears and the jumping up and down. It was the most perfect and genuine moment ever!! 

couple laughs together looking at otters
man kneels proposing to girlfriend at the North Georgia Wildlife & Safari Park
woman kneels down to be with man during proposal at the North Georgia Wildlife & Safari Park

Afterward, they took truly precious photos with their new otter friends, called their people to share the good news, and wandered hand-in-hand around the park, soaking it all in. Those quiet moments together after the proposal has happened is always one of my favorite times when I get to be involved in these surprises. Bryce & Madi had a chance to slow down and really soak in what was happening. Absolutely obsessed with how joyful, thoughtful, and wildly fun this one was.

man twirls woman around after the North Georgia Wildlife & Safari Park proposal
couple kisses next to two otters in exhibit at the North Georgia Wildlife & Safari Park
otter places paw on woman's hand showing engagement ring
man hugs woman tightly to him while she looks at ring
woman in white sweater laughs with man after proposal
woman video calls with family showing off engagement ring
young couple holds hands walking by exhibits at the North Georgia Wildlife & Safari Park
woman shows off engagement ring while man makes silly face at North Georgia Wildlife & Safari Park

Bryce, you nailed it. Madi, you radiate joy. I couldn’t be happier for you both.

Proposal at the North Georgia Wildlife & Safari Park with otters photographed by Raven Shutley Studios, GA wedding photographer

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