Eric & David’s Surprise Proposal at the University of Washington Arboretum

There’s nothing quite like the mix of nerves and joy that comes with a surprise proposal. Eric planned the perfect moment for David at the University of Washington Arboretum in Seattle, and it couldn’t have been more beautiful.

Two men are standing outdoors on a path in a park surrounded by trees. One man is kissing the other on the cheek while the man being kissed smiles at the camera. Both men are wearing short-sleeved shirts.

The Proposal Moment

On a warm afternoon by the water, Eric set up a simple picnic — a blanket, a basket, and plenty of sunshine streaming through the trees. When the time was right, he got down on one knee. The look on David’s face says it all. Total surprise, followed quickly by happy tears and laughter.

The Arboretum’s lakeside views framed the moment perfectly, with golden light filtering through the leaves and the sparkling water just behind them. After the big “yes,” the two shared an embrace that spoke volumes about their love and excitement for what’s ahead.

Man kneeling on one knee holding a ring box, proposing to another man outdoors by a lake under a large tree, with both smiling in sunlight.
Two men having a picnic by a lake, one sitting on his knees opening a picnic basket, the other standing and leaning forward, with a tree and water in the background on a sunny day.
A couple in 1950s or 1960s attire is kissing by a lake under trees, with a blanket, picnic basket, and shoes nearby, suggesting a romantic picnic setting.
Two men embrace in a kiss while on a picnic by the water, surrounded by trees on a sunny day.
A man proposing marriage to another man by a lakeside under a tree, with a picnic basket nearby and shoes on the grass.
Two men hugging by a lake under a tree, one kneeling on one knee while the other stands, surrounded by a picnic setup with shoes and a picnic basket.

Exploring the Arboretum Together

One of the best parts of proposal sessions is being able to capture portraits right after. Eric and David strolled hand in hand through the Arboretum’s winding trails, stopping for photos under shady trees and along open pathways. The setting gave them a chance to breathe, laugh, and soak in what had just happened.

From sweet moments sitting in the grass to playful piggyback rides on the bridge, these photos highlight exactly why the Arboretum is such a gem in Seattle. There’s a mix of romantic, tucked-away spots and wide-open spaces; perfect for creating a gallery that feels both intimate and full of variety.

Two men walking on a gravel path in a park, holding hands, smiling, surrounded by green trees in bright sunlight.
Two men are standing outdoors on a path in a park surrounded by trees. One man is kissing the other on the cheek while the man being kissed smiles at the camera. Both men are wearing short-sleeved shirts.
Two men embracing and smiling outdoors with trees in the background.
Two men sharing a kiss outdoors surrounded by green trees.
Close-up of a person wearing a smartwatch and gold rings on their fingers, with their hand placed over their chest.
Two men smiling and embracing outdoors in a park, with trees and sunlight in the background.

Tips for Proposal Photos at the Washington Park Arboretum

If you’re considering proposing at the Arboretum, here are a few tips to make the most of your experience:

  • Pick your spot ahead of time: The Arboretum is full of trails, lawns, and waterfront views. Decide whether you want the proposal to feel private and tucked away or more open with a scenic backdrop.

  • Timing is everything: Late afternoon and golden hour bring out the best light, especially near the water and tree-lined paths.

  • Bring a simple setup: A blanket or picnic adds a personal touch without being over the top. It also gives you both a place to relax for photos afterward.

  • Wear something comfortable but polished: The Arboretum involves walking, so shoes you can stroll in make a big difference while still looking great in photos.

  • Hire a photographer who knows the park: Having a Seattle proposal photographer familiar with the Arboretum ensures you’ll get the best angles, lighting, and a smooth flow to the session.

Two men, one sitting on a wooden railing and the other standing, embracing and smiling outdoors with lush green foliage in the background.
Two men smiling and having fun outdoors, one on the other's back, in a wooded area near a wooden railing.
Two men smiling and embracing each other outdoors on a wooden bench surrounded by green foliage.
Two men sharing a hug outdoors with trees in the background, one smiling visibly and the other leaning in with his face near the other's shoulder.

Why I Love Proposal Photography

Capturing proposals is one of my favorite parts of being a Seattle photographer. It’s about more than just the big “yes”. It’s about telling the story of the moment, the nerves, the joy, and the laughter that follows. Eric and David’s proposal at the Arboretum was full of all of those emotions, and it was an honor to document it for them.

If you’re planning a proposal in Seattle, I’d love to help you capture your story in a way that feels authentic and meaningful.

Two men sitting on the grass, touching foreheads and smiling at each other in a park with trees in the background.
Two men engaging in playful fight in a grassy park area, with trees in the background.