A Surprise Proposal in Knoxville Botanical Gardens
I love being part of a surprise. There’s something about feeling the butterflies in your stomach and the “EEEEEK” inside your head when you’re waiting to surprise someone, knowing they are going to love what’s in store.
So when I got a message asking if I was available to photograph a surprise proposal, I was ALL IN.
Cody reached out to me to photograph his surprise proposal to his girlfriend Rylee. His plan was to go on a walk with her through the Knoxville Botanical Gardens and then pop the question at a spot he already scoped out the day before.
We got into the details of the plan of who, when, and where, and I even sent screenshots with arrows on the map like a coach on gameday to show him where I would be hiding, where he should pop the question, and then when I would come around to photograph the moment he got down on one knee.
When the big day came, I got to the Knoxville Botanical Gardens early to check in at the Howell House Visitors Center and pick up my photography pass. Remember, there is a fee to photograph commercially in the gardens, and the proceeds go to the maintenance of the beautiful grounds for everyone’s enjoyment for years to come.
I waited in the agreed upon location while Cody texted me updates on their arrival time. This was their first time to the gardens together and Rylee kept stopping to look at all the beautiful plants.
When they arrived at the designated spot, I slowly started making my way around the center garden.. but Rylee made a beeline for another flower that was no where near the spot Cody wanted to propose, and he had to politely take her hand and start walking her towards the center of the garden area. At that point, she finally figured out this wasn’t any regular walk through the gardens.
He got down on one knee, and she said yes!
Even the ring was a surprise. Rylee had designed it, but didn’t know that Cody had sent himself the design when she wasn’t looking and had it made to her specifications!
Cody had also gotten a beautiful bracelet for Rylee’s daughter and promised to love her forever too. It was a touching moment for the family.
After the proposal and the “I can’t believe you pulled this off” conversations, I took Cody and Rylee aside for a few couples photos to show off their engagement. They were so sweet together and Rylee just kept asking how he planned it all. Everyone else in their family knew, including his little niece! We took some family photos and then they were off to share the news and get some ice cream.
Tips and Information (Knoxville Botanical Gardens):
If you want to plan your photos in the Knoxville Botanical Gardens, be aware that you will need to purchase a photo pass. This is a requirement for any commercial photography within the gardens. Passes can be purchased online and picked up at the Howell House Visitors Center. A day pass is $50.
If you choose to have your photos taken in the Knoxville Botanical Gardens, be sure to look at the map of the gardens and decide what type of scenery you would like for your photos, if you have a preference. The gardens are expansive, with a variety of walking trails, plants, and historical structures throughout the grounds. I am always game for a walk to get a variety of backgrounds for your session!
Note the season. Spring is the obvious choice for flower blooms, but fall is equally as gorgeous with the changing foliage! Keep the season in mind when planning.
Remember, I am always here to assist with planning and logistics!
If you’re ready to plan a surprise proposal or want engagement photos to remember, reach out to me and let’s make it happen!