A week before their visit, Keenan reached out with an exciting plan. He and his girlfriend were travelling from Wales to Birmingham for a seminar, and he wanted to use the opportunity to propose in a beautiful, memorable location. After some discussion, Birmingham Botanical Gardens stood out as the perfect venue, offering the romantic and tranquil atmosphere he envisioned for his secret proposal.
Why Birmingham Botanical Gardens is a Dream Location for a Proposal
Birmingham Botanical Gardens is one of the most picturesque spots in the city, covering 16 acres with lush Victorian glasshouses, a charming Bonsai garden, and even an aviary. In autumn, the gardens are particularly stunning, with vibrant colours making every corner photo-worthy. And yes, this is the Birmingham Botanical Gardens in the UK—ideal for those searching specifically in Birmingham, England, and not to be confused with the Botanical Gardens in Alabama, USA!
Since Keenan was unfamiliar with the gardens, while I know it very well, I recommended the gazebo as the perfect proposal spot. This ornamental cast-iron structure offered an elegant, picturesque backdrop for photos, without distracting from the intimacy of the moment. Plus the area also provided a bit of seclusion, allowing the couple a private space to enjoy this special milestone.
On the day of the proposal, I arrived early, blending in as a casual photographer exploring the gardens. I had a photo of Keenan and his girlfriend to help me recognize them, and when they arrived, Keenan discreetly spotted me. As we’d planned, he followed my path, allowing me to naturally lead them toward the gazebo, where he would ask the big question.
Capturing Post-Proposal Moments: A Mini Portrait Session
After the proposal, Keenan and his fiancée had time to soak up the moment with a mini portrait session throughout the gardens. The colourful autumn scenery provided a gorgeous backdrop for photos, allowing us to make the most of this picturesque location and commemorate their engagement with a variety of beautiful shots.
Scenic Highlights of Birmingham Botanical Gardens
The Birmingham Botanical Gardens provided a beautiful setting for Keenan’s proposal. With its diverse landscapes and unique features, it’s a wonderful venue for anyone planning a proposal or simply looking to capture unforgettable moments in a breath-taking environment.
- Victorian Glasshouses: With exotic plants from all over the world, the glasshouses bring a lush, tropical atmosphere that feels like stepping into a different world.
- Bonsai Garden and Aviary: These unique features add to the charm and variety of the gardens, from delicate bonsai trees to vibrant birds.
- Grade II Listed Bandstand: This historic structure, recently restored to its original 1874 design, adds a classic touch to the gardens.
- The Laudon Terrace: At the top of the gardens, the Laudon Terrace offers stunning views of the main lawn, which slopes down beautifully, making it a popular picnic spot in summer.
If you’re planning to ask your partner to marry you, check out my page on Secret Proposals for some more inspiration.