Iceland Proposal: Mimi and Ted
Iceland Proposal: Mimi and Ted
Slowly packing our bags and laptops, after a long night of planning, the girls got up to use the bathroom. Ted sitting right across from me, sipping on his last bit of cocktail said ” I think it’s going to happen in Iceland”, followed with my response, “what’s going to happen in Iceland?”. To the outside world, it’s safe to say Mimi wasn’t the only one waiting for the last 5 years for a ring. Ask anyone in our community and, most people will tell you Ted should’ve proposed about 5 years ago. I digress. An Iceland proposal was in the works, and I couldn’t be more excited.
My initial reaction was FINALLY, followed with joy and excitement. Ted, the most optimistic, patient, and relaxed guy, didn’t have an exact plan. Weeks later I would follow up about a location in Iceland, and the response I would often get is ” not to sure yet, still working on it” followed by his goofy laughter. Flying from London, after being there for a week, Helen and I met up with Ted and Mimi in Iceland. By now, the anticipation had already grown not knowing when or where it was going to take place.
Finishing up our chilly morning snorkeling through the water of Silfra ( swimming between the tectonic plates of North America and Eurasian) we made our way to Seljalandsfoss. The 2.5 hour drive gave us enough time to make a few stops at the gas station and coffee shop. Good thing the girls were sleeping, as it gave us some time to chat through some details.
Seljalandsfoss, is easily recognized as one of the top waterfalls in Iceland. Already amazing as is at first glimpse, a mini rainbow had formed from the sun that had finally peaked out in time. Timing, couldn’t have been better, as this was this only time it was sunny throughout our whole trip.
What most people don’t realize is that couple metres away is Gljúfrabúi, a lesser known waterfall, and a hidden gem. Stretching 40 metres in height, and tucked away behind a large cliff, you first must wade through the rocky entrance before having your breath taken away by this waterfall. Timing was everything. With this being a less high traffic area, Ted did a great job of picking out this spot. Props for choosing an amazing backdrop! Waiting for the last few people to trickle out, I quickly snuck into the falls first. Thank goodness for Blundstones to keep the feet dry.
With the mist blowing in every direction, and no tourist in sight, I was ready. Excited, nervous, and in awe all at the same time. Ted, Mimi, and Helen followed through the narrow path of the entrance, slowly making their way to Gljúfrabúi. It was time to give Ted the cue, as we discussed earlier at the coffee shop. ” Mimi, Ted, let me grab a photo of you two by the waterfall. *snap snap*. Okay, let’s try another pose” as I screamed at them over the sounds of the crashing water. You could clearly tell Mimi was soaking everything in… pun intended. As soon as Mimi turned back around, Ted was on his knees, and the rest was history.
The reaction from Mimi was everything. No the the lighting and composition weren’t the best, but I’ve come to realize that authenticity is everything and more. If Mimi and Ted, look back at this photo years from now, and remember the exact feeling when she said “yes” then I’m glad.
Mimi, the strong, caring, and loving person; and Ted the carefree, patient, optimistic, easy going friend are two amazing people who deserve each other. I couldn’t be more happier to have captured this moment for them.
It’s been almost 10 years since I first met Ted. For Mimi, it’s been over 15 years since we first met. In no way did I ever imagine back in grade 8, that I would be her Iceland proposal. But here we are 15 years later…. let’s see what the next 15 years brings us.
