The Magic of Outdoor Proposals

One question I’m often asked is, “What are you going to do about the weather?” Now, I’ll admit – I’m great at my job (and I adore it), with over 25 years of experience producing photoshoots and events. But as much as I’d love to, I can’t predict, change, or control the weather. Trust me, as a bit of a perfectionist, this is one thing I’ve had to come to terms with. Let’s be honest – rain is also rather romantic.

So, what’s the solution? Many clients dream of outdoor proposals or events but may not consider the realities of rain, mud, or freezing temperatures. When a client shares their vision for an outdoor event, I always ask:

Does your partner enjoy being outdoors?
Are you both accustomed to braving the cold or unpredictable weather?
Is this location meaningful, or is an outdoor setting part of a long-held dream?

If the answer is a resounding “yes”, we dive into finding the perfect location – one that not only fits their vision but also includes a beautiful “wet weather option”. This might be a romantic covered pathway, an elegant summer house, or even an enchanting setup under an umbrella.

Bobby envisioned a magical lakeside proposal – one where he could pop the question while being serenaded with his and Roseli’s favourite song, surrounded by hidden family members witnessing this life-changing moment.

After extensive research, we found the perfect spot: St Michael’s Manor. This stunning location offered the privacy of secluded grounds, a picturesque jetty overlooking the lake, and a charming summer house nearby for family to wait for the surprise which would also be our back up wet weather option if required.

On the big day, everything fell into place. The skies were blue, the air warm (for the UK!), and the setting breathtaking. Of course, we had contingency plans – had it been too cold or wet, we’d have set up in the summer house with the family watching from across the lake.

The jetty was transformed into a vision of romance with silk white flowers, candles, lanterns, and our signature 8-foot white-and-green heart with our It Was Always You led sign. Stella, our incredibly talented violinist, played a medley of the couple’s favourite songs, adding a magical soundtrack to the moment.

Blindfolded, Roseli was gently led by Bobby to the lakeside proposal area. With her heart racing, Bobby took her hand, removed the blindfold, and revealed the romantic setup that had been lovingly created just for her.

As he dropped to one knee and asked her to spend the rest of her life with him, there wasn’t a dry eye in sight – just happy tears and overflowing love.

But the surprises didn’t end there. Bobby turned Roseli around to reveal her second surprise: her family, who had travelled two hours to share this unforgettable moment, emerged from the summer house. The laughter, hugs, and joy that followed were priceless.

Dhruv and Karyan’s proposal was a breathtaking moment high above the city. Karyan believed she was simply going for lunch with her mother at The Store Hotel in Oxford. But as she arrived, expecting a quiet afternoon, she was met with the biggest surprise of her life – Dhruv had secretly flown into London, waiting on the rooftop with the most important question he’d ever ask.

With the stunning views of Oxford as their backdrop, Dhruv took her hands, looked into her eyes, and asked her to marry him. The emotions, the disbelief, the overwhelming joy – it was all there. A moment she never saw coming, but one she would remember forever.

On a different day, Saagar and Dua set off for what she thought was a luxurious afternoon tea picnic along the tranquil waters of Regent’s Canal. Everything was perfect – the elegant setup, the gentle movement of the boat, the quiet laughter as they enjoyed their time together.

Little did Dua know, Saagar had planned a grand surprise. As their boat made its way upstream, something magical happened above them – eight umbrellas suddenly popped open, revealing the letters spelling out “Marry Me.”

The moment was surreal. Dua’s breath caught as she turned to Saagar, who was already down on one knee, ready to ask her to be his forever.

I couldn’t have made these magical moments happen without my incredible team: Jo, Claire, Fairy, Tom, Lina, Paul, Jonathan and Stella. Your dedication, creativity, and passion for what we do make dreams like these come true. From the bottom of my heart – thank you.

Want to see more romantic setups like these? Follow us on Instagram @TheOneRomance for behind-the-scenes magic, heartwarming stories, and luxury event inspiration.

As always thank you to my amazing team of photographers, musicians and videographers for capturing these special moments for our clients:

Lina and Tom
www.linaandtom.com
@linaandtomPaul

Grace
www.pgrace.co.uk
@pgracephoto

Jonathan Bickle
www.jonathanbicklephotography.co.uk
@jonathanbicklephotography

Stella Page
www.stellamusic.co.uk