Nearly eight years before this sweet Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Garden proposal, Jeff and Stephanie became dear friends. The pair shared a thirst for adventure and especially valued the fun and exciting moments in life. It was only a matter of time until Jeff and Stephanie’s friendship blossomed into a beautiful love story. Jeff planned the perfect proposal – a romantic hike with Stephanie and their daughters through scenic Raccoon State Park. But in the midst of a ninety-something degree day in June, Stephanie suggested the family find something more comfortable to do. Although Jeff had already arranged for a photographer to capture the park proposal, the team quickly pivoted to an equally stunning (and much cooler) location: Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Garden. For nearly an hour, the photographer trailed the family through ornate orchids, frilly ferns, and princely palms until Jeff found the perfect place to get down on one knee. Stephanie was stunned when Jeff presented a gorgeous rose gold ring complete with a diamond band and sparkling halo setting. The only thing sweeter than Stephanie’s teary-eyed smile was the enthusiastic embrace from her daughters! The newly-engaged couple leaped and twirled with joy through the outstanding blooms and fragrant flowers before celebrating with a surprise engagement party at home. Keep scrolling to see the sweetest “Yes!” as captured by Iris Marie Photography.
About the Couple
These two met through friends and were always crossing paths, but did not become a couple for some time. Eventually, after stepping into friendship first, this quickly blossomed into love during the pandemic. They quickly moved in together and became one family, which includes Stephanie’s two daughters and their family dog.
About the Proposal
Jeff’s initial proposal plan was to hike with Stephanie and their daughters around Raccoon State Park. However, the June weather was 90 degrees and Stephanie admitted to her besties that she did not feel like hiking and did not understand why Jeff wanted too so badly. Time to pivot the proposal ideas. Instead, Jeff suggested taking their family to Phipps before going to their friend’s house for a pool day. Steph and their daughters agreed to this idea. Although Phipps probably was not much cooler, the views were magnificent.
Jeff and his family walked around Phipps for a solid 45 minutes before he finally found the perfect spot where he wanted to get down on one knee. The entire time, their daughters were texting the photographer updates as she followed behind. Stephanie’s reaction was priceless, but what was even more emotional was her daughters’ reaction as they watched their mom accept a marriage proposal from the love of her life.
