Normally when people come to Niagara Falls to propose they choose to have the Falls as a backdrop. This is a gorgeous option but it&rsquo;s not the only one.
Some people are looking for more of a private proposal and aren&rsquo;t as concerned about having the Falls in that big moment photo (we can always head to the Falls after you pop the question)
Botanical Gardens is a stunning park with a ton of photo opportunities. There is a fountain, stone buildings, a gazebo, iron gates and a gorgeous row of trees! And of course, flowers and flowers and flowers. It&rsquo;s also quite large so the chances you will have tourists in the background are a lot less. The parking lot is large, less expensive than anywhere near the Falls and is steps away from the park entrance.

Winter time this is a great option because the Butterfly Conservatory is on the grounds of the Botanical Gardens. It&rsquo;s an inexpensive alternative to an outdoor location on a chilly or wet day.
The Butterfly Conservatory is a tropical paradise. It&rsquo;s full of color and warmth and of course, butterflies. It can sometimes feel like tight quarters with the tourists as the walkways aren&rsquo;t huge but it&rsquo;s definitely a lovely spot and one worth considering during not so lovely weather.

Normally when people come to Niagara Falls to propose they choose to have the Falls as a backdrop. This is a gorgeous option but it&rsquo;s not the only one.
Some people are looking for more of a private proposal and aren&rsquo;t as concerned about having the Falls in that big moment photo (we can always head to the Falls after you pop the question)
<a href="https://www.niagaraparks.com/visit/nature-garden/botanical-gardens-2/">Botanical Gardens</a> is a stunning park with a ton of photo opportunities. There is a fountain, stone buildings, a gazebo, iron gates and a gorgeous row of trees! And of course, flowers and flowers and flowers. It&rsquo;s also quite large so the chances you will have tourists in the background are a lot less. The parking lot is large, less expensive than anywhere near the Falls and is steps away from the park entrance.
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Winter time this is a great option because the <a href="https://www.niagarafallstourism.com/play/attractions/butterfly-conservatory/">Butterfly Conservatory</a> is on the grounds of the Botanical Gardens. It&rsquo;s an inexpensive alternative to an outdoor location on a chilly or wet day.
The Butterfly Conservatory is a tropical paradise. It&rsquo;s full of color and warmth and of course, butterflies. It can sometimes feel like tight quarters with the tourists as the walkways aren&rsquo;t huge but it&rsquo;s definitely a lovely spot and one worth considering during not so lovely weather.

No matter where you decide to propose in Niagara Falls, it will be the right place. Have a look at Niagara Botanical Gardens and Niagara Butterfly Conservatory on the Niagara Parks website and let me know what you think and always remember, I&rsquo;m here to help.

Botanical Gardens Proposals in Niagara Falls

Leigh loves winter. I mean she LOVES winter. When she and Matt chose November for their wedding date she was hoping for a winter wonderland to celebrate their love. In the Niagara Region there&rsquo;s no telling what you&rsquo;ll get in November. You could have a warm sunny day or a blizzard. Leigh and Matt had somewhere in between.&nbsp;
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<a href="https://www.stonewallestates.ca/"> Stonewall</a> was the perfect backdrop for them to share their personal vows (which were incredible by the way). There was no snow on their chosen date but it didn&rsquo;t stop them from having a &ldquo;snow covered&rdquo; recessional thanks to the packages of coconut &ldquo;snowflakes&rdquo; left on each guest's chair.
The landscape at Stonewall is gorgeous and has a variety of backdrop options which is a photographer's dream.&nbsp; There is a huge barn, a vineyard, a forest, a water with a dock and perfectly for Leigh, pine trees.&nbsp;
The bridal cottage on the property just steps away from everything is perfect for getting ready, for those pre wedding detail photos and a great spot for a newly married couple to slip away to catch their breath from the action that naturally takes place on a wedding day.
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Em, the coordinator for Stonewall weddings, was instrumental in helping Leigh's winter wedding visions come true. The barn was set up with more Christmas trees than you can imagine. The centerpieces were lanterns with candles and pine details. The two tiered wedding cake was simple. It looked like it was covered in snow with a simple pine cone on top. There were rich green accents and Christmas ornament favors. There was no shortage of twinkle lights.&nbsp;
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Sunsets at Stonewall are stunning. Every couple wants a sunset photo on their wedding day and any photographer will tell you, golden hour and sunset are our favorite times to capture intimate moments. I love to steal couples away so they can share a private moment in the most perfect light.
Leigh and Matt's photography portion of their day ended with black skies and bubbles, a fun ending to an amazing wedding day.

Stonewall Estates Winter Wedding

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Located in St Davids, <a href="https://www.ravinevineyard.com/Events">Ravine Vineyard</a> is a stunning sophisticated venue to host your wedding. I had the honor of photographing these two gorgeous ladies' wedding
 in July. 
Jess and Erin had been friends for years when their friendship evolved into romantic love. These two ladies choose the perfect venue in Ravine. They are elegant and classy and they love wine. There&rsquo;s no better place to host a wedding than in a vineyard when you&rsquo;re a wine lover.
The ceremony site was surrounded by vines on their ceremony lawn. The reception was held in Ravines event centre just steps away where it boasts panoramic views of the vineyard. This modern space was meticulously decorated with help from wedding coordinator Jennie Dobrucki from <a href="https://www.adivineaffair.ca/">A Divine Affair</a>
Ravine has a ton of great opportunities for wedding photography. The vines and the buildings are a perfect backdrop for your family photos, wedding party photos and couple photos. I was able to do all of Erin and Jessica's family photos under the overhang on the wide open patio (this is also a perfect spot for photos if it had been a rainy day or a great spot to escape from the sun for a little while)
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July is my favorite month for weddings. I love the heat and the warm, late sunsets. I was able to scoop Erin and Jess away for some fun photos in the vineyard. It was a perfect time to share a private moment and take a little break from their busy day.
Before I left, Jess and Erin changed into their new custom wedding running shoes and we finished up their wedding photos in the parking lot (yes, photography in the parking lot!) in the dark. It was a nice moment to end the perfect day.

Ravine Vineyard wedding courtesy of Erin and Jessica

There is no shortage of great proposal spots in Niagara Falls. <a href="https://www.niagarahelicopters.com/">Niagara Helicopters</a> is a unique and fun way to pop the question (fun fact, a lot of people come to Niagara Falls to elope and do it on a Niagara Helicopter)
This couple came from Toronto and planned a fun day in Niagara Falls. Little did she know that part of the plan was a marriage proposal, photo session and picnic at Botanical Gardens.

Whether you want to propose on the helicopter as it hovers Niagara Falls or when you get off, its a fun spot.&nbsp;
Botanical Gardens is just minutes away and served as a great spot for the remainder of the engagement photo session.
Following the session she was surprised by the custom picnic provided by <a href="https://www.peachykeenniagara.com/">Peachy Keen Niagara</a>

Niagara Falls Proposal on Niagara Helicopters

Looking for a vineyard wedding? <a href="https://www.vintage-hotels.com/bella-terra-vineyards/">Bella Terra Vineyard</a> in Niagara on the Lake is a picturesque spot. The vineyards and the pond are a gorgeous backdrop for your wedding photos. It's a perfect outdoor venue with a huge tent overlooking the pond.
Michelle and Adam were a dream to photograph. Gorgeous, relaxed and fun! Michelle walked down the isle surrounded by vines to live musicians. They exchanged personal vows under the heat of the June sun surrounded by their closest family and friends.
<a href="https://www.vintage-hotels.com/weddings/">Vintage Hotels </a> can provide you with a luxury wedding experience.
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Looking for a vineyard wedding? Bella Terra Vineyards in Niagara on the Lake is a picturesque spot. The vineyards and the pond are a gorgeous backdrop for your wedding photos. It's a perfect outdoor venue with a huge tent overlooking the pond.
Michelle and Adam were a dream to photograph. Gorgeous, relaxed and fun! Michelle walked down the isle surrounded by vines to live musicians. They exchanged personal vows under the heat of the June sun surrounded by their closest family and friends.
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Vintage Hotels Weddings at Bella Terra Vineyards

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I am a Niagara Falls based photographer, and I do a ton of proposals. A lot of people travel here from all over the world to propose to their partners and everyone wants to be "in front of the Falls". I recommend one of two parks, Queen Victoria Park and Oaks Garden Theatre. Two totally different parks with different feels and they are a 10 minute walk apart.
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Queen Victoria Park, with its colourful, manicured gardens and stunning views of Niagara Falls, is a photographer's dream. I can't even begin to count the number of times I've been completely lost in the moment, capturing the perfect shot of the falls through a veil of vibrant blooms. The park is teeming with life, and every image captures a different facet of its beauty. It's a place that never fails to inspire awe, and photographing it is an experience I enjoy.
The pros of Queen Victoria Park (or QVP as I like to call it) is that it's directly across from the Falls. You can park at Niagara Parks Police station and you are steps away from all that you came to see! This park is perfect in the winter and non tourist months. It's also stunning first thing in the morning.
The cons to this park, parking at Niagara Parks Police station can be pricey and during peak times, near impossible to get a spot. Often times when events are being held at the Falls they will close this parking lot completely. It's also a tricky park during peak times as it's very busy. You are guarenteed to have a tourist walk in front of you as you take a knee!
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On the other hand, we have the Oaks Garden Theatre, an oasis of tranquillity amidst the hustle and bustle of the city. The serenity of this place is something that I find incredibly soothing. As a photographer, the theatre's blend of formal and romantic styles presents a unique challenge, pushing me to think outside the box. The meticulously maintained flower beds, the classic Greek amphitheatre, the ornamental pool - each element adds to the charm of this place. It's a spot that offers a sense of calm, a respite from the chaos, and it's a pleasure to be able to capture that in my photographs.
The pros of Oaks Garden Theatre (or OGT as I like to call it) is that it's a park where people go to relax. To have lunch, a coffee or just to sit and take in the view. While there's a good chance there will be tourists around there are more places to hide and tourists arn't bustling through. There is parking near by but keep in mind it's a bit of a walk. Oaks Garden definitely has more variety for your engagement shoot following your proposal.
The cons of OGT is that it's down from the Falls (this could be a pro depending on how you look at it) so the Falls aren't directly in the background. Sometimes weddings are happening in this park so while it is a public park we need to be mindful and respectful of that.
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I'm not just a photographer, but also a storyteller. I believe in creating genuine connections with the people and places I photograph. I feel a deep sense of gratitude for each opportunity to be part of someone's story, to capture their precious moments. That's what drives me each day - the chance to make a difference, to touch lives through my work.
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If you have questions about either of these spots or your proposal, I am happy to help!!
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Your Niagara Falls Proposal: Queen Victoria Park versus Oaks Garden Theatre

Absolutely in love with all our family pictures. Not only is Shelly a talented photographer, she is an amazing person. She was easy to work with and so patient with our 2 year old son. She made our session full of laughs and fun, everything felt so easy. Such a great day full of captured memories. 📷

Jamie Newlands

Shelly did such a wonderful job and went above and beyond for our pictures. We eloped in niagara, she drove us from the chapel to save us the parking headache and dropped us off close to where we got photos done so I didn’t have to walk in heels. She was so much fun to be around and made us feel very special. The pictures are everything we hoped for <3

Brianna Hawley

Shelly is absolutely amazing! Very approachable and professional. She was the photographer at our daughter's wedding in NOTL. She kept the communication flowing and was great to work with. As the MOB and wedding planner, I greatly appreciated how organized and how well she kept the big day flowing seamlessly for photos. She is truly an artist and knew how to get us into our poses and when to take those unique surprise photos. We love love love your work! Thank you so much for a great day! I'll be sure to recommend your services! Now the hard part...picking out photos for framing since they are all sooo good! Take care. Dianne, Cristyn and the family :)

Dianne Franic

Shelly is amazing! I called Shelly on a whim with only a few days notice before my proposal. Not only did Shelly make time in her busy schedule to photograph our proposal but she was also incredibly accommodating, prompt and professional. She helped me plan the location and put my mind at ease knowing that everything would be taken care of.

On the day of, Shelly was knowledgable and knew exactly what my fiancee and I were looking for. She captured our special moment incredibly and I look forward to recommending her to others in the future!

Jared Kirsh

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Included in this package is not just photography, but my personal involvement and assistance in helping you to plan the perfect proposal. I know most of you aren't from the Niagara area so I am happy to help ease your stress by putting things in motion so when you arrive all you have to do is pop the question. The engagement shoot immediately following is packed full of emotion for both of you (and me too if I'm being honest!) it's all come together and all that's left to do is feel the excitement of it all!! I'm there to share in the excitement and capture some of the most genuine moments.

Niagara Wedding Proposal Package

Weekday Elopements in Niagara Falls Package – perfect for those spontaneous, intimate moments that deserve to be captured beautifully. This package includes one hour of dedicated photography coverage. Need a bit more time? No problem! You can add an extra hour for just $350. This package is great for the couple who want to document their wedding in a quick and fun way. (Speaking of fun, do you know you can get married on a Niagara Helicopter!) Every image tells a story, and with this package, I aim to narrate the heartfelt journey of your weekday elopement. All photos will be delivered to you through a private, password-protected online gallery, ensuring your memories remain exclusively yours.

Weekday Niagara Elopements Package

Platinum Wedding Collection – the ideal photography solution for capturing every moment and detail of your special day. For ten hours, myself and Amy will provide thorough, dedicated photography coverage, ensuring every meaningful moment is preserved beautifully and authentically. I truly adore my job, and weddings are my favourite. They offer a unique, joyous atmosphere that I'm always honored to be a part of. As your photographer, my goal isn't just to take your photos, but to tell your love story – with passion, care, and a genuine commitment to showcasing the beauty of your celebration. From the intimate moments of getting ready to the joy of the ceremony and the excitement of the reception, I will be there to capture every special detail. I also offer several add-ons that might enhance your wedding experience: <ul><li>Extra time: $300 per additional hour: Extend the joy of your wedding day celebrations! Ensure every precious moment is captured, from the heartfelt beginning to the joyful end.</li><li>Photo albums, starting at $600: Transform your cherished memories into tangible treasures! These exquisite albums serve as stunning keepsakes, perfect for sharing with loved ones and reliving the magic of your special day anytime you wish.</li><li>Discounted bridal boudoir: Treat yourself to a special session that captures your beauty and confidence in an intimate and elegant setting.</li><li>Discounted engagement session: Celebrate your engagement with a personalized photo session at a special rate, perfect for save-the-date cards or simply cherishing the pre-wedding excitement.</li></ul> Let me be a part of your journey, capturing the moments that make your wedding day truly unforgettable.

Platinum Wedding Collection

Silver Wedding Collection – the ideal photography solution for couples who don't need full day coverage but want to capture all the important details. For six hours, I will provide dedicated photography coverage, ensuring every meaningful moment is preserved beautifully and authentically. I'm always honored to be a part of your wedding day. As your photographer, my goal isn't just to take your photos, but to tell your love story – with passion, care, and a genuine commitment to showcasing the beauty of your celebration. From the intimate moments of getting ready to the joy of the ceremony and the excitement of the reception, I will be there to capture every special detail. With this collection I also offer a discounted engagement session: Celebrate your engagement with a personalized photo session at a special rate, perfect for save-the-date cards or simply cherishing the pre-wedding excitement. Let me be a part of your journey, capturing the moments that make your wedding day truly unforgettable.

Silver Wedding Collection

I'm starting to grow my business and do between $500-$1000 a month in bookings.

Core Plan

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I have had the privilege of photographing numerous weddings in the Niagara Region. And let me tell you, the area is teeming with unique venues that add an extra dash of magic to any couple's big day. Here are my top 5 picks for distinctive wedding venues in the Niagara Region.
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1. <a href="https://vineland.com/weddings/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Vineland Estates Winery</a>: Set amidst lush vineyards and offering breathtaking views of Lake Ontario, this venue is a paradise for wine-loving couples. The Carriage House, built in the 1840s, provides a rustic yet elegant setting for your reception. The best time to get married here is in the fall, when the vine leaves turn a beautiful golden hue. This venue is ideal for intimate weddings with a guest count of up to 56 people.
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2. <a href="https://theharewineco.com/weddings/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Hare Wine Co</a>.: This is another vineyard beauty. What sets The Hare Wine Co. apart is its blend of traditional and modern architecture, making it perfect for couples who want a bit of both. The venue shines brightest in the summer, when the vineyards are lush and green. This venue caters to larger weddings, accommodating up to 150 guests.
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3. <a href="https://npca.ca/weddings" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Balls Falls Conservation Area</a>: If you're an outdoorsy couple, this venue is for you. With its historic buildings, waterfalls, and natural beauty, Balls Falls offers a picturesque backdrop for your wedding. Spring and fall are the best times to get married here, when the flora is in full bloom or changing colours. This venue is perfect for elopements and small to medium-sized weddings.
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4. <a href="https://carmenslakeview.com/weddings/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Lakeview</a>: Situated on the shores of Lake Ontario, The Lakeview offers a stunning beachfront setting. The venue features a vintage Grand Beach Hall and a modern Lakeview Loft, both offering panoramic views of the lake. This venue is best for summer weddings, and can accommodate large guest counts.
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5. <a href="https://www.niagaraparks.com/weddings/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Butterfly Conservatory</a>: For a truly unique wedding, consider the Butterfly Conservatory. Here, you can exchange vows surrounded by thousands of butterflies in a tropical rainforest setting. This venue is beautiful year-round, making it a versatile choice. It's ideal for intimate weddings or elopements.
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I have witnessed unforgettable moments at each of these venues. They each bring something special to the table, just like each couple does. The key is finding the one that resonates with your story, your personality, and your vision for your big day. And remember, what truly makes a wedding special is not the venue, but the love and joy shared among the couple and their loved ones. I would be thrilled to help capture these moments for you.

Top 5 Unique Wedding Venues in the Niagara Region

Capturing life's moments, one image at a time

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You will find the about page from my existing website between the “” below. You can use this section primarily for tone of voice and style as opposed to content. Make sure that all references to the self are in the first person singular, as I am the only photographer on my team. Please also ensure that there are no references to “our team” or “our photographer”. Instead, all writing should be coming directly from me. I would also like it to be quite down to earth and without lots of fluff and flowery language.

"I am a Niagara Falls wedding, event and portrait photographer and the truth is I love my job. No, I mean I really love my job. I still cry at weddings……I can’t imagine doing anything else.

When I started it was weddings. Allllll weddings. Now, it’s so much more. My brand and I personally have evolved into something I couldn’t imagine. I am so grateful.
It is my job as a photographer to capture your most important moments. Even during a headshot or branding session I need to capture you as you are. I need to be able to tell the world in a single image a story. It has to be an authentic story; those are the only ones I want to tell.
Weddings are still my favourite. I get the opportunity to spend an entire day sharing in some of the most wonderful moments of your life.

Why would you choose me to photograph your event when there are an abundance of photographers in the Niagara Region? Experience and flexibility. My ability to make you feel at ease in front of my lens. Absolute professionalism without being rigid. My ability to easily adapt to your unique day.

My closest friends and family describe me as; Determined, compassionate, articulate, loving and innovative. Demanding and blunt were on that list but I’m going to take those as positives. Ha-ha.
My children say I am caring, funny (thank goodness someone said that!!) outgoing, emotional and focused (I have the best kids. I didn’t pay them to say nice things. They are the reason I do what I do and I am who I am)

Really, when all is said and done, it’s all about relationships for me. I have been saying that for a long time now and it’s the most consistent thing about me. At the end of our lives we take nothing with us but what we leave behind are the relationships we have built with those around us. For me, that includes every person I have photographed who have allowed me to be a part of their lives and for those who have allowed me to remain a part of their story.

I would love to hear from you. I would love to know what you need and how I can help you achieve your goals."

Blog

Botanical Gardens Proposals in Niagara Falls

Stonewall Estates Winter Wedding

Ravine Vineyard wedding courtesy of Erin and Jessica

Niagara Falls Proposal on Niagara Helicopters

Vintage Hotels Weddings at Bella Terra Vineyards

Your Niagara Falls Proposal: Queen Victoria Park versus Oaks Garden Theatre