Lesley got in touch a few weeks before they arrived. He and Gulsum were coming over from England for a friend’s wedding and had decided to stay on in Bordeaux for a few days, because they love the city (and, naturally, its wine). He’d decided this was where he was going to propose.
We talked through a few options and settled on the Jardin Public. It’s central, it’s got plenty of character, and it’s usually quiet enough to give you a bit of space. On the day I got there early to check for building works and crowds. A big tour group happened to leave just before they arrived, and I gently moved on a local who’d settled down on the steps with a book.
We went with the helpful tourist. Lesley asked me to take a photo of them on his phone, I offered to grab one or two on my camera as well, and that gave me the chance to put them exactly where I wanted them. Then, mid-frame, he reached into his pocket.
Gulsum didn’t believe it was real. She was so shocked she actually walked away for a moment to take it in, and Lesley had to go down on one knee a second time. After that it was mostly laughing.
For me, the best bit was Gulsum’s face in those first few seconds. Pure surprise. Weddings have plenty of big moments, but with a proposal everything changes in a second, and it’s addictive to be there for.
Afterwards we wandered into the city for a few portraits just as the lunchtime rush was starting, the two of them still buzzing.
Planning your own?
If you’re still deciding where, here are the best places to propose in Bordeaux. My guide to planning a surprise proposal in Bordeaux covers how it all works, and you can see what’s included on my proposal photography page.
If you’re thinking about it, even loosely, drop me a message below.