Romantic Couples Session & Proposal at Garden of the Gods
If you’ve been wondering how to propose at Garden of the Gods or searching for the right proposal photographer in Colorado Springs, Cade and Nicky’s story shows you exactly how magical it can be. Their golden hour couples session turned into a surprise proposal on a quiet overlook, with the red rocks glowing and Pikes Peak stretching across the horizon. Garden of the Gods is one of the most breathtaking places in Colorado to propose, a mix of adventure, romance, and unforgettable views, and this evening captured it all.
Cade & Nicky’s Love Story in the Garden
Cade is a cowboy in Texas, the real deal. Pearl snap shirt, cowboy boots, and hat, with a heart as steady as his work. Nicky is a hairstylist and artist with effortless beauty and sweet tattoos that tell pieces of her story. Together, their love feels grounded and wild all at once.
They planned a couples session at Garden of the Gods, but Cade had more in mind, something unforgettable.
Golden Hour in a Hidden Gem
We started in one of my favorite spots in the park, easy to get to, quiet, and tucked away from the crowds. The timing couldn’t have been better. The day had started with rain, and during the session, it sprinkled just enough for Cade and Nicky to cozy under a blanket I brought. Those in-between moments, laughter in the rain, faces pressed close, hands wrapped tight, became some of my favorite images.
As the sun broke through the clouds, the entire space lit up in gold. Garden of the Gods does this magic trick sometimes: the rocks glow, the sky turns honey-pink, and everything feels suspended in time.
The Proposal Moment
Cade took his time, letting the session flow naturally. We walked, we laughed, we captured their love as the light deepened. On the way to our final spot, I gave him a gentle nudge, a reminder that the time was right. He waited just a little longer, holding the moment close, until we reached a rocky cliff overlooking the range. There, with the mountains stretched out behind them and the sky glowing gold, Cade pulled out the ring.
Nicky’s reaction was pure joy. Her hands flew to her face, her smile widened into tears, and in that instant, Garden of the Gods witnessed another love story etched into its stone. She said yes, and the whole park seemed to echo it back.
Celebrating with Photos
After the proposal, we captured the electric joy in the air, Nicky showing off her ring against the backdrop of red rocks, her tattoos catching the light, Cade beaming beside her. I tucked her ring into the surrounding nature for a few detail shots, a tradition my clients love. Those images feel like talismans, tying love to the land.
Why a Couples Session Proposal is Worth Considering
I’ve photographed both full surprise proposals and sessions like Cade and Nicky’s, a couples shoot that transforms into a proposal. Each has its own magic.
With a surprise proposal, you get the raw shock and unfiltered emotion.
With a session-turned-proposal, you also ensure you’re both dressed in a way that feels true to your style. You already have beautiful photos leading up to the big moment, and the surprise still lands just as powerfully.
For Cade and Nicky, it was the perfect balance: genuine surprise paired with the chance to look and feel their best.
Planning Your Garden of the Gods Proposal
Garden of the Gods is one of the best places to propose in Colorado Springs, and having a local photographer who knows the light, the crowds, and the hidden gems can make all the difference. From scouting quiet spots to helping with timing, I love guiding couples through this once-in-a-lifetime moment.
More Ideas for Your Garden of the Gods Proposal
If you’re dreaming about proposing in Colorado Springs, Garden of the Gods offers so many ways to make it your own. Cade and Nicky’s story is just one example of how magical it can be. If you’d like to explore even more, I’ve created a full guide to the Best Spots to Propose in Garden of the Gods. From iconic landmarks to hidden overlooks, it’s filled with timing tips, insider advice, and inspiration for planning a proposal that feels as true and unforgettable as your love.
Garden of the Gods is one of the most beautiful places to propose in Colorado Springs, whether you’re planning a surprise or weaving it into a couples session like Cade and Nicky did. Having a local proposal photographer by your side means you can relax into the moment, knowing the light, the location, and every reaction will be captured in a way that feels true to your love.
If you’re dreaming of your own proposal at Garden of the Gods, I’d love to help you plan and photograph it.
