Best Places to Propose in DC :: Garden-inspired Proposal Locations
Romantic, Secret Garden Proposal Locations in Washington, DC
First of all - congratulations! You’re planning on proposing - one of the most special moments in your life as a couple. It’s a brief moment in time compared to your history together, but it marks something monumental: the decision to come together in marriage as a way to express your deep love for each other.
The most frequent question I’m asked as a photographer is, “What are the best spots for proposing in DC?” and the next question is usually, “Where can I propose in DC where there aren’t a lot of people?” If you’re leaning toward a more private, non-city environment for you DC proposal, these secret garden proposal locations around town will be perfect for you. Below is a list of my favorite garden proposal spots in DC. I’ve chosen them for their beauty, serenity, gorgeous light, and being away from crowds.
Constitution Gardens
Your proposal should be nothing short of romantic, intimate, and thoughtful. As your photographer, I’ll help you make sure each of these comes true as you plan your special day. We’ll work together in advance to plan for the perfect proposal location that fits your personalities and interests.
Proposal photography is probably one of my absolute favorite types of photography. Every couple is unique, each experience is fun and emotional (yes, I’ll cry too). For some couples, the proposal will be a complete surprise (for one person!). For others, the ring has already been picked out and plans have been made. The marriage proposal is just as special no matter what your situation.
Enid A Haupt Garden at the Smithsonian Institution
From the Moongate Garden and ponds to the soaring castle towers, this DC hidden gem is a popular place for proposals and engagement photography. It sits right on the National Mall, but many people don’t know about it. In spring, just before the cherry blossoms, this garden is entirely filled with pink magnolias in bloom. Even if you miss the magnolias, this garden is spectacular all year-round.
Magnolia trees in late March, Enid A. Haupt Garden
Moongate Garden, Enid A. Haupt Garden in Washington, DC
Enid A. Haupt Garden in late March, magnolias in bloom
The Bishop’s Garden at the National Cathedral
This is one of my favorite places to bring couples and families for photographs. It’s gorgeous all year-round, with terraced landscaping, stone and brick pathways lined with hundreds of flowers. The Bishop’s Garden is inspired by medieval walled gardens. A stone gazebo graces the center of the garden. You can turn in any direction and end up with a picturesque garden backdrop, with or without the cathedral in view. For a tranquil garden proposal in DC, this is the ideal place. Easy parking is a plus.
Constitution Gardens on the National Mall
A quaint, tranquil island surrounded by a pond and accessible by a wooden bridge. Towering weeping willow trees sway in the breeze as geese float by, and an unobstructed view of the Washington Monument (if you so desire). There are rarely more than a couple of people on the island itself, and its proximity to the National Mall and restaurants downtown makes it one of the perfect DC proposal locations. Depending on the time of day you may be able to park nearby.
Mary Livingston Ripley Garden tucked between the Hirshorn Museum and the Smithsonian Museum
This is definitely one of the best hidden gems in Washington, DC, and one of the prettiest DC spots for a surprise proposal. An elegant, tiered fountain surrounded by ornate seating, tall trees, raised flower beds, and a unique variety of greenery.
Upper Senate Park Fountain on Capitol Hill
Huge tiered fountains surrounded by grass and trees, with high jets of water and a pool complete with underwater light fixtures create a spectacular evening and nighttime setting. This is definitely a hidden gem proposal spot on Capitol Hill. Various angles allow you to view or turn away from the Capitol Building and still have a gorgeous DC backdrop for your surprise proposal. A quiet, mostly secluded proposal spot in downtown DC.
Botanical Gardens
Washington DC’s Botanical Gardens have beautiful outdoor grounds with mini plazas surrounded by flowers, flowering bushes, trees, and tall plants. From one angle you can see the Capitol in the background, from others you have lush and colorful greenery. There are not usually many people in this area, especially near sunset or first thing in the morning. The Botanical Gardens are located between the Capitol Building and the National Museum of the American Indian.
I hope this list of gorgeous garden locations for your surprise proposal is informative, and if you’d like to book your proposal with me, drop me a line! I’d love to hear what you have planned, how you envision your proposal taking place, and if you have a different location in mind.
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