November 3, 2019

Surprise Botanical Proposal

Ashley reached out to me a few weeks before her & Jess’ trip to Toronto about photographing their surprise engagement proposal. Living in New York City, Ashley had been in charge of scheduling their mini weekend break to Canada. It was the perfect opportunity to propose to a woman that had come to mean so much to her and what better backdrop, than the beautiful scenery of Allan Gardens! A surprise proposal is always a bit nerve-wracking, getting everything organized, us texting where she would lead Jess, as they wandered through the exotic foliage of this beautiful botanical garden. And then, before we knew it, the crisp autumn morning had arrived! I hopped on the streetcar, grabbed myself a coffee and lingered gingerly at the entrance, waiting for the doors to open.

As we entered I snuck behind, discreet like a ninja, ready to pounce. But just like Ashley, my heart was beating out of my chest, waiting for the moment she felt was right and would stop to ‘take a photo’ of Jess. They walked hand in hand, down the small green and lush alleys of the gardens and then suddenly came to a pause, Ashley took Jess’ phone and got down on a knee. This was it! Jess’ face lit up and they both giggled as Ashlee placed the ring on her finger. Time stood still for those few seconds.

I waved excitedly after a moment and introduced myself as a non-creepy randomer taking photos of them. The atmosphere was glorious and full of excitement, seriously palpable love and laughter. As we headed to the central dome area to sit and take some photos, suddenly Jess formed a little grin as she pulled something out of her pocket. It was an engagement ring. Ashley put a hand in front of her mouth in surprise. The surpriser, became the surprisee!! Ah! Of course, she said yes and I, grinning ear to ear as I captured it all from behind the lens.

Their story? Just as cute as their engagement. Jess met Ashley at their community college LGBTQ+ pride group. Staying after the meetings for hours, just the two of them, talking about everything under the sun, love soon blossomed. They knew as soon as they met, they’d had found their person. Everything else, just felt like it fell into place. Ashley & Jess love to go camping and hiking, watching Grey’s Anatomy or Queer Eye, and eating tons of vegan junk food!! Women after my heart!

We spent a few hours after the beautiful and moving DOUBLE proposals walking around Allan Gardens and the surrounding area. Jess soon spotted the doggy park and the three of us proceeded to talk in baby voices to all and any dogs that approached us. I couldn’t be happier for these two beautiful, kind and gorgeous humans! Join us in celebrating their engagement and scroll down!

Same Sex Surprise Proposal Allan Gardens Botanical Toronto Photos LGBTQ