When Anthony first reached out, he already had a vision.
Anthony didn’t want the beach, or a rooftop, or The St. Pete Pier. He wanted Sunken Gardens.
In the spring.
And honestly? We were thrilled. My husband and I decided we would do it together even though the package didn’t include two photographers. Sometimes the other one of us can’t sit out.
We’re very often asked for photography sessions on the beach — and while Florida sunsets are undeniably beautiful, the beach really offers a fairly simple backdrop. You have the sand, the water, the sky, maybe glowing sunset color if the weather is right, and some dunes or distant buildings. It’s clean and classic, but visually it stays pretty consistent.
Sunken Gardens in the spring is completely different. It’s layered. Textured. Immersive. Every few steps gives you a new backdrop — vibrant florals, tropical greenery, winding paths, reflective water, tucked-away corners. It feels less like a backdrop and more like stepping into another world entirely.
When Anthony told us his dream location, we immediately started planning. We walked the gardens together in advance, scouting pockets of vibrant florals, checking how the light filtered through the palms, and choosing the perfect path he could casually guide Lauren down without raising suspicion.
Spring had the gardens showing off.
The colors were bold and joyful — bright pink blooms spilling over pathways, tropical greens layered behind every turn, warm sunlight dancing across the water features. Every corner felt romantic without feeling staged. It had that natural magic you just can’t manufacture.
We were so excited for this one.
On the day of the proposal, everything felt effortless. Lauren had no idea. Anthony led her through the garden just like we planned, pausing in the exact spot we had chosen — framed by vibrant florals and surrounded by lush greenery. When he got down on one knee, it felt intimate and cinematic all at once.
It was perfect.
A Note About Photography Permits at Sunken Gardens
When Anthony first told us he was set on Sunken Gardens, we made sure he knew about one important detail: professional photography sessions require a permit.
It’s not just a formality — sessions without a permit are technically not allowed, and photographers can be asked to leave. The last thing anyone wants during a once-in-a-lifetime proposal is an interruption.
The permit fee is $250, and honestly, it’s one of the best values for such an iconic location. Especially when you compare it to venues like The Don CeSar (around $1,250 for a permit – even if you are staying security will end your professional session) or other locations like The Library that charge $300 for a single dictated hour.
What makes it even better is that the fee supports the lush gardens themselves — helping maintain the grounds and preserve the beauty that makes proposals like Anthony and Lauren’s so special.
Anthony didn’t hesitate. This was his dream location, and he wanted it done right.
And because he secured the permit in advance, we were able to focus entirely on the moment — no stress, no rushing, no interruptions. Just pure excitement and celebration surrounded by spring color.
Sunken Gardens in the spring is proof that proposals don’t have to be on the beach to feel magical. There are so many beautiful spaces to create something unforgettable — you just have to know where to look.
And this one? We’d photograph it again in a heartbeat. 🌿
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