How to Plan a Surprise Proposal at The Ringling (Justin + Karleen’s Rose Garden Proposal)
Thinking about proposing at The Ringling in Sarasota? You’re in good company. It’s one of the most romantic places to propose in Florida, with Mable Ringling’s Rose Garden, the Ca’ d’Zan terrace on Sarasota Bay, and the pink Italian courtyard of the Museum of Art. Proposals are allowed on the grounds but not inside the museums, and you’ll need to reserve your photography session in advance. Below is exactly how Justin pulled off a two-part surprise for Karleen, plus a step-by-step plan you can use for your own Ringling proposal.
When Justin first reached out, he was planning a family vacation to the Tampa Bay area for late May. As far as Karleen knew, that’s all it was: a vacation!
He knew exactly what he wanted; greenery, flowers, unique architecture or water. He also wanted to propose early in the trip so they could be celebrating and relax for the rest of the trip.
We talked through a few options, but once Justin saw The Ringling, his mind was made up. He chose Mable Ringling’s Rose Garden, with its stone gazebo, winding paths and old-world statues tucked between the roses.
The Plan: Two Surprises in One
Justin and Karleen would stroll the grounds together and end up in the middle of the Rose Garden, where he’d get down on one knee.
There was a second surprise, too. Justin wanted Karleen’s family there to see it happen. I met them early, and we hid everyone among The Ringling’s famous banyan trees, where they could watch without being seen. I tucked myself behind a banyan as well. Once Justin and Karleen walked past, I slipped into position for a clear view of the gazebo.
The Moment
Justin got down on one knee in the center of the gazebo, and Karleen’s reaction said it all. She bent over with her hands over her face in total shock, then broke into the biggest, happiest laugh as he slid the ring on her finger. She was so shocked and filled with joy, unbelief and happiness. They are just the sweetest!!!!
Then came surprise number two. Her family stepped out from the banyan trees to celebrate with them. It was the kind of moment you can’t script, and it’s exactly why I love photographing proposals. Justin had connected me with them so I could meet them earlier and get them all set and hidden in a good spot where they could watch but not be seen.
If you’re planning your own proposal, here’s what made Justin’s work so well:
He kept a cover story. To Karleen, it was just a vacation.
He proposed early in the trip, so the rest of the week was a celebration.
He chose a spot that fit her, not a crowded restaurant or a theme park.
He let his photographer (me:-) handle the logistics, from timing to hiding her family, so he could focus on her.
Exploring The Ringling After the Yes
After hugs and happy tears with the family, we spent the rest of the session exploring the estate. The Ringling is a large property, and you only have a two-hour window in total to photograph there. That’s why it matters that we know the grounds so well. We knew exactly where to go, which spots had the best light at that time of day, and how to move from one location to the next without losing a minute.
Just as important, I guided Justin and Karleen through every location with easy, natural direction. Nothing stiff or overly posed. I gave them simple prompts to walk, talk, dance, whisper something to each other and just be together. Within minutes they forgot the camera was there, and the photos show exactly who they are: playful, a little goofy and completely in love.
Mable Ringling’s Rose Garden: We started right where it all happened. Walking the statue-lined paths gave them time to soak in the moment, and it’s where Karleen couldn’t stop showing off her ring.
Ca’ d’Zan: This is one of my personal favorite spots as it is so unique and iconic. We stood on the sun mosaic in front of the mansion, strolled past its Venetian Gothic arches, and then took to the marble terrace. A quick “now twirl her” turned into a full dance in front of the stained-glass windows, laughing the whole time.
The Bayfront Terrace: With Sarasota Bay stretching out behind them, we slowed things down for quieter, close-together moments along the terracotta balustrade. They always have their sunglasses on and since it was a bright sunny day it was so them and the perfect accessory!
The Museum of Art Courtyard: The soft pink arcades, vaulted ceilings and iron lanterns feel straight out of Italy. A few simple prompts, like walking toward me and pulling her in close, gave us everything from a swishing-skirt walk to a kiss beneath the arches. It was also the perfect backdrop for close-ups of her marquise halo ring in yellow gold.
How to Plan a Proposal at The Ringling
1. Reserve your session in advance.
The Ringling requires proposal photography to be booked ahead of time. Your reservation gives you a two-hour window for the proposal, plus access to photograph all over the grounds. Start on The Ringling’s Engagements & Proposals page.
2. Choose your style of proposal.
The Ringling offers a staff-assisted option, in which their events team helps coordinate the proposal and provides transportation on the estate. You can also plan it on your own with your photographer. For an “on your own” proposal, (this is what Justin choose) keep in mind:
The grounds are open to the public, so specific spots can’t be reserved.
Transportation around the estate isn’t provided.
Proposals aren’t permitted inside the museums.
The Ringling doesn’t provide a photographer.
3. Pick your spot.
Mable Ringling’s Rose Garden: romantic and private-feeling, with great hiding spots nearby
Ca’ d’Zan terrace: bay views and showstopping architecture
Museum of Art Courtyard: symmetrical, elegant and very Italian
4. Plan around the hours, especially during the holidays.
The Ringling is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. It’s closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day, so if you’re planning a holiday proposal, choose a nearby date. One bonus of a winter proposal: the sun sets earlier, so late afternoon brings soft golden light while the grounds are still open.
5. Hide your family (if you want them there).
The banyan trees near the Rose Garden are perfect for keeping loved ones out of sight. I met their families there and got them hidden away in the banyan trees close by so they could watch and come out and surprise them after without being seen.
6. Dress for the setting.
Justin and Karleen got it exactly right: white linen and seersucker for him, and a black two-piece with a pop of rust for her. Classic, breathable fabrics stand out against The Ringling’s pink stucco, white marble and lush greens.
Frequently Asked Questions About Proposing at The Ringling
Do you need to reserve a proposal at The Ringling?
Yes. Proposal photography sessions need to be reserved in advance through The Ringling. Your reservation includes a two-hour window for the proposal and photos around the grounds.
How much does it cost to propose at The Ringling?
Plan for two costs: The Ringling’s reservation and your photographer. Check their Engagements & Proposals page for current pricing. Our proposal photography at The Ringling ranges from $900 to $1,500.
How far in advance should I plan a Ringling proposal?
Reach out at least four to six weeks ahead, and earlier for the holidays or a weekend. That leaves time to reserve your session, plan the logistics with your photographer and coordinate family.
What is the best spot to propose at The Ringling?
Mable Ringling’s Rose Garden is a favorite for surprise proposals because of its gazebo, roses and nearby banyan trees, which make it easy for a photographer and family to stay hidden. The Ca’ d’Zan terrace is best if you want water views.
How do I keep a proposal a surprise at a public place?
Give your partner a natural reason to be there, such as a museum visit or a family outing, and let your photographer blend in nearby. At The Ringling, the banyan trees and garden paths make it easy to stay out of sight until the moment happens.
Can family watch the proposal without being seen?
Yes. Your photographer can meet your family early and hide them nearby, such as in the banyan trees by the Rose Garden, then signal them to come out right after the yes.
What if it rains on my proposal day?
Florida showers often pass quickly, so your photographer can watch the radar and adjust the timing. The covered arcades of the Museum of Art Courtyard are a beautiful spot for photos if the weather turns. Check with The Ringling about their rescheduling policy when you book.
Is The Ringling open on Christmas?
No. The Ringling is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day, so plan your holiday proposal for a different day that week.
When should I book a proposal photographer for the holidays?
As early as possible. Thanksgiving through Valentine’s Day is peak proposal season, and December dates fill first.
Planning a Proposal in Sarasota or Tampa Bay?
You focus on the ring and the words. I’ll handle the rest. From choosing the spot to hiding your family and texting you when it’s go-time, I’ll make sure the moment goes exactly as planned and every second of her reaction is captured.
We’ve spent 18 years photographing love stories across Tampa, St. Pete, Clearwater and Sarasota, including more than 700 weddings and countless surprise proposals. We would love to help you plan this amazing step in your journey together!
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Carrie Wildes is the owner and lead photographer of Carrie Wildes Photography, a Tampa Bay proposal, engagement and wedding studio serving Tampa, St. Pete, Clearwater and Sarasota since 2008.