A Surprise Engagement at Harry P. Leu Gardens in Winter Park, FL.

Jun 6

April brought the perfect setting for my first surprise engagement of 2025, and it was one of the sweetest proposals I’ve had the joy of capturing.

Carlos and Xitlali were visiting Orlando, FL for a quick vacation, but Carlos had something a little more unforgettable in mind. He reached out with plans to surprise Xitlali with the ultimate activity: getting engaged! And he couldn’t have picked a better location than Harry P. Leu Gardens in Winter Park, FL.

I arrived at the gardens early to make my way to the rose garden, which just so happened to be in full bloom this time of year. It was absolutely stunning with the bright pinks and red of the roses, the quiet atmosphere, and the feeling of spring in the air. Moments later, Carlos and Xitlali arrived, and by some stroke of magic, they had the garden all to themselves. The intimacy of the moment, surrounded by roses, made for such a romantic backdrop as Carlos got down on one knee.

It was an honor to witness and document such a joyful, genuine moment for these two. Congratulations, Carlos & Xitlali!