There’s nothing more special than a surprise proposal in Paris. More than any other city in the world, Paris exudes romance and love. Due to the city’s magnificent monuments, like the Eiffel Tower and Arc du Triomphe, as well as its adorable architecture, it really is the world capital of romance, which is why so many people became engaged in Paris. As an English speaking Paris surprise proposal photographer, its my honor to capture these special moments for couples who visit Paris from all over the world. I was particularly excited about this surprise proposal photoshoot in Paris, which would take place in the luxurious surroundings of the Luxembourg Gardens, one of the top gardens to visit in Paris.
How to Plan a Surprise Proposal Location in Paris
Paris has so many amazing locations, it can be difficult to choose a location for a Paris surprise proposal and engagement photoshoot. Most people prefer a view of the iconic Eiffel Tower, as this famous monument is what says “Paris” to them. However, there are couples who prefer another view of Paris, as the city has so much to offer. That’s why I was so enthused when Chapin, a young professional living in Brooklyn, New York City, reached out to me about his Paris surprise proposal. He wanted to propose to the love of his life, Star, on their trip to Paris, but he was looking for a location other than with an Eiffel Tower view.
After some discussion, it was decided that the beautiful Luxembourg Gardens in the 5th arrondissement or Paris, would make a lovely location. In summer especially, the gardens are bursting with color, and its romantic centerpiece, the Medici Fountain, is a perfect spot to get on one knee.
When considering a surprise proposal location in Paris first consider:
- Do you require an Eiffel Tower view for your Paris surprise proposal? If so, there are a number of ideal locations for views with the famous tower for the proposal and photos afterward.
- If an Eiffel Tower view is not required, what other type of location is appealing? A garden? A beautiful view?
Where to Propose in the Luxembourg Gardens in Paris
Luxembourg Gardens are a rather large garden in Paris, but its romantic centerpiece is the Medici Fountain, named after Marie Medici, a former queen in France. The palace in the garden, which is now the French Senate building, was once her palace and she created the gardens in Italian style. The Medici Fountain is attached to a reflecting pool, where you’ll find ducks swimming, big shade trees, the iconic green chairs you’ll find in most Paris gardens to relax, and in season, flowers. It’s a peaceful spot, which is extremely popular with tourists and locals alike. Due to its popularity, people will stop by all day long to photograph the fountain. Additionally, people will sit along the reflecting pond and read books, enjoy a glass of wine, and catch up with friends.
The ideal time for a surprise proposal at Luxembourg Gardens is in the morning, no later than say, 9:00 am, depending on the season. In the gardens at that time, most people are jogging or walking for their daily exercise, and the fountain is generally really peaceful, perhaps with a few people enjoying their morning coffees, but much less busy than later in the day, and affords a lot more privacy.
Proposals at the Medici Fountain later in the day and early evening are possible too, but there are so many people at the fountain later in the day, that privacy is not to be expected and there will be quite a few people in the photos, as it’s unavoidable.
But how to get your loved one to the garden in the morning, also ensuring they’re “photo ready”? Some couples have a more casual style, so this isn’t as big a concern. If you want your loved one to look and feel their very best, you could indicate that you’re going to a nice breakfast or lunch, and that the attire for the day should be a bit more dressy. You’ll pass through the garden on your way somewhere else, and while there, get on one knee. It’s really quite a simple process, and with a little planning and my help as a Paris surprise proposal photographer, capture the moment to treasure forever.
The Medici Fountain and Luxembourg Gardens are a tourist attraction in Paris, it’s centrally located, and very popular and a must-do when in Paris.
The Proposal at Luxembourg Gardens
Chapin and Star met in college in North Carolina. At first they were just friends, but their friendship deepened into love, and now they’ve spent the last seven years together as a happy couple. This was a really fun trip for them both, they had just come from attending a wedding in the Cotswolds in England. On their way home, they’d decided to stop in Paris for a few days, to explore the city, as neither one of them had ever been. They selected a hotel near the Luxembourg Gardens, a very lovely neighborhood.
On the morning of the surprise proposal, Chapin and Star went on a walk in the gardens. Being early July, Star was dressed in a beautiful dress for the season, and Chapin told her maybe they’d take some photos in the beautiful garden, so she’d brought along heels. I was waiting for them at the fountain. They did not know me, I was just there taking photos like a tourist. In the morning, it was peaceful, and at that moment, no one else was there.
Chapin quickly got on one knee and presented the ring to Star, who was so surprised and touched. It’s always a moving scene when a couple become engaged, and I love capturing these memories for them! Their proposal was followed by a champagne toast, with some delicious French champagne, and followed by a mini engagement session in the gardens. I took them to my favorite spots in the gardens, which of course, included one of the Statue of Liberty sculptures by French sculptor, Bartholdi. It seemed only fitting that this couple living in New York City should be photographed with the iconic symbol of their city.
It was an absolutely gorgeous summer morning and it was delightful to meet Chapin and Star, and learn more about them and create these gorgeous images for them, that I hope they treasure the rest of their lives.
So, now, you can see too, that the Medicis Fountain at the Luxembourg Gardens in Paris is an iconic and idyllic spot for a surprise proposal in Paris.
Karina Leigh Photography
If you’re planning a surprise proposal in Paris, or if you’re already engaged and would love to have a Paris engagement session, I’m here to help you plan and pull off the perfect Paris proposal in the most beautiful of places. Plus, of course, I’ll capture these moments in images you’ll cherish your whole lives.
