Some proposals feel like they were pulled right out of a storybook—and Nick & Su’s was exactly that.

On a quiet, drizzly April day, Nick proposed to Su in one of the most magical spots just outside NYC: Untermyer Gardens in Yonkers. The rain kept the crowds away, making the whole place feel like their own secret garden. And honestly? It was perfect.


Their Story: Six Years In the Making

Nick and Su have been together for six years—through college, big life changes, and med school (Su is currently a med student!). Their connection is so deep and natural, you can feel it the second you're around them. From the moment we met, they were all giggles and glances, completely in sync and so full of love. Photographing them felt more like quietly documenting their joy than “posing” them at all—they were just that in the moment with each other.


The Proposal: Greek Columns, Rainy Romance, and So Much Joy

Nick chose a beautiful covered area in the gardens for the big moment—surrounded by ornate Greek-style columns and stone architecture that made everything feel classic and timeless. With the rain softly falling outside the structure, the quiet was almost cinematic. When Su realized what was happening, her whole face lit up. So much laughter. So much love. She said yes through happy tears and laughter, and it was just so them.


Once the rain eased up, we wandered through the rest of the gardens. Everything was lush and vibrant, and the soft post-rain light made the whole place glow. We explored hidden corners, took portraits along the mosaic walkways and arched walls, and soaked in the calm. The mood was romantic and peaceful in a way that only a quiet garden on a rainy spring day can be.


Why Untermyer Gardens Is One of the Best Hidden Gems for a Proposal Near NYC

If you’re thinking about popping the question and want something unique and romantic without venturing too far from New York City, Untermyer Gardens is an incredible option. Located just 30 minutes from Manhattan, it offers a perfect blend of historic architecture, gorgeous landscaping, and quiet beauty—especially on an overcast or rainy day when you might have it all to yourself.

A marriage proposal moment captured between white columns of a classical building at Untermyer Gardens in Westchester, NY outside of NYC
A romantic marriage proposal moment under a classical columned structure with stone steps at Untermyer Gardens in Westchester outside of NYC
A couple in matching winter coats share an intimate moment while standing against a beige wall after a proposal
A couple embraces intimately after their proposal in the Untermyer Gardens
Close-up view of a delicate solitaire diamond engagement ring on a hand with pale pink manicured nails.
A close-up shot of an engagement ring box on a decorative mosaic tile surface.
Close-up of hands wearing a plaid sleeve putting on a gold diamond engagement ring after proposal
A couple in casual winter outfits pose together against a textured wall with decorative floor tiles in Untermeyer Gardens
A couple wearing matching gray and navy outfits pose for an engagement photo against a neutral background in Untermyer Gardens
A couple shares a tender kiss while standing in an ornate architectural corridor in Untermeyer Gardens in Westchester near nYC
A black and white portrait of a couple sharing an intimate moment in soft lighting at Untermyer Gardens in Westchester, NY
A couple sharing an intimate moment in a historic colonnade with tiled floor at Untermyer Gardens in Westchester, NY
Young couple shares an intimate romantic moment outdoors on a rainy day after a proposal in Untermyer Gardens
A joyful couple celebrating with a playful lift in an architectural setting after getting engaged
Close-up shot showing hands resting on a grey sweater with an engagement ring, photo by Joliette Marie Photography

Thinking About Proposing in NYC (or Just Outside It)?


As a proposal photographer based in NYC, I love helping couples find locations that feel true to them—whether that’s the iconic DUMBO backdrop, a quiet nook in Central Park, or an underrated gem like Untermyer Gardens.


If you’re planning a proposal and want someone to help capture the joy, emotion, and genuine moments of the day, I’d love to hear from you.