Planning a surprise proposal is no small feat, especially when you want every detail to be perfect. Recently, I had the pleasure of capturing a truly magical moment between V and G at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden’s stunning Rose Garden.

V went above and beyond to make this proposal unforgettable. He visited the garden beforehand to find the perfect spot, choosing a quiet corner of the Rose Garden for this special moment. With the beautiful roses in full bloom and the serene atmosphere of a Sunday morning, it was an ideal setting for a surprise.

As V and G arrived, I kept my distance, quietly observing as V led G to the chosen spot. The anticipation was palpable, and as V got down on one knee, I was ready to capture every second. When G realized what was happening, her expression was priceless— a mix of shock, joy, and overwhelming love. These first emotions are the moments that make my work as a photographer so fulfilling. Being able to freeze time and capture the raw, unfiltered reactions is what brings the story to life.

The moment G said “yes,” tears of happiness flowed, and their laughter filled the garden. I made sure to capture the spontaneous smiles, the tender glances, and the sheer joy that radiated from them both. These first emotions— the initial shock, the joy, and the laughter—are moments that they will cherish forever.

These first emotions— the initial shock, the joy, and the laughter—are moments that they will cherish forever. After the big moment, we took the time to document more of their love story by exploring the garden together, capturing a mix of candid and posed photos that celebrated their engagement. The Rose Garden, with its vibrant blooms and secluded paths, provided the perfect backdrop to document the start of their journey together.

Tips for Planning a Surprise Proposal at Brooklyn Botanic Garden

Choose a Quiet Time: Timing is everything when it comes to a surprise proposal. The garden can get quite busy, especially on weekends and during special events like the Cherry Blossom Festival. Early mornings or weekdays are ideal for a quieter, more intimate setting. The soft morning light also creates beautiful photos, adding a magical glow to your special moment.

Scout the Location Ahead of Time. Before the big day, take a trip to Brooklyn Botanic Garden to explore different spots. The garden has several picturesque locations like the Rose Garden, the Cherry Esplanade, and the Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden, each offering a unique backdrop for your proposal. Visiting ahead of time allows you to find the perfect spot that resonates with your story and vision.

Coordinate with the Photographer: Communication with your photographer is key to ensuring everything goes smoothly. Discuss the plan in detail, including where and when the proposal will happen, so they can be in the right place at the right time without being noticed.

Consider a Permit for Privacy. If you’re looking for a more private experience, consider obtaining a permit from Brooklyn Botanic Garden. A permit allows you to reserve a specific area for a certain time, ensuring you have privacy for your proposal. This can be especially helpful if you want an uninterrupted moment or plan to have a photographer capture the event without onlookers. Reach out to the garden’s administration well in advance to understand their permit process, fees, and any restrictions that might apply.

Add Personal Touches. Incorporate elements that are meaningful to your relationship. Whether it’s bringing along your partner’s favorite flowers, playing a special song, or incorporating an inside joke, these personal touches can make the proposal even more memorable. It’s these little details that add depth and emotion to the moment, making it truly unique.

Practice the Proposal. It might sound silly, but practicing what you’re going to say and how you’ll propose can help calm your nerves. Think about what you want to say and how you’ll get down on one knee. Practicing ensures you’re prepared and can focus on the moment rather than worrying about what to do or say next.

Stay in the Moment

Finally, remember to enjoy the experience. Proposing is a big step, and it’s easy to get caught up in making sure everything goes perfectly. Focus on your partner, the love you share, and the excitement of starting this new chapter together. Trust your photographer to capture all the special moments while you stay present and enjoy every second.