Proposing in the Rain: Why a Wet London Day Can Still Be Magical

Let’s be honest, London doesn’t have the best reputation regarding the weather. However, it’s not as bad as we’re given credit for. While cloud cover is common, it doesn’t rain as much as you may think.

Let’s compare a few cities’ annual rainfall:

• London = 722mm

• New York = 1,258mm

• Sydney = 1,213 mm

In London, you’re more at risk of some drizzle than an actual downpour (a helpful guide on London’s weather). Plus, the good news is that a little rain doesn’t have to ruin your proposal. In fact, it can actually make it more romantic.

With the right mindset and a bit of planning, your rainy-day proposal could turn into one of the most unforgettable, cinematic moments of your life.

Here’s how to handle rain on your proposal day with confidence.

Sometimes the best move is just to go for it. A gentle drizzle or even a full-on downpour can create a beautifully raw, emotional moment, especially when paired with umbrellas, soaked cobblestones, and that classic London grey sky.

Why it works:

• It feels spontaneous and real

• You’ll have an amazing story to tell

• Rain can soften the light and make your photos look cinematic & romantic

Think about those iconic romantic rain movie scenes: the emotional moment under a shared umbrella, the rain kiss, the way everything feels more intense. Your proposal could have that same energy, with the bonus of being 100% real.

Just make sure to dress in layers and bring a stylish umbrella (or ask me to have one ready for you). Clear or white umbrellas are perfect as they let in natural light, keep you dry, and still show your faces in photos.

Rainy conditions bring mood, reflection, and texture. If you lean into it, the weather becomes part of the story.

Instead of trying to “work around” the rain, think of how it can enhance the moment. Raindrops on the camera lens, reflective puddles on the pavement, you and your partner laughing under an umbrella, it’s all pure atmosphere.

Ideas:

• Bring a clear or white umbrella so you can still see each other’s faces

• Wear waterproof/resistant footwear that still look great in photos

• Pop the question under an umbrella, then celebrate with a rainy stroll

• Add a hot drink stop (coffee, mulled wine, hot chocolate) right after the proposal to warm up and reflect together

Some of my favourite photos were taken during or just after a rainstorm. There’s a softness to the light and an intimacy to the moment that you just don’t get on a dry day.

If your location is flexible, consider proposing earlier or later in the day to dodge the rain. Weather apps aren’t perfect, but they can give you a decent sense of when to aim for.

I always monitor the forecast for my couples in the lead up to their proposal. If I think a shift in timing is necessary (it’s extremely rare), I will let them know.

Tip: Even a short break in the weather can be enough for the big moment, and we can shoot under trees or in sheltered spots between showers. I’ll help you make the most of it.

Whether it’s a second location nearby or a covered spot within walking distance, having an option B ready will help you stay calm if the weather shifts.

Covered locations to consider:

• The arch with Big Ben in the background

• Borough Market

• The Barbican

• The Graffiti Hearts

• London parks with large trees

Not sure where to start? I can help recommend locations that work beautifully in all weather.

If the weather’s too wild for comfort, you’ve still got options. London is full of beautiful indoor spaces that feel just as magical.

Going indoors doesn’t mean your proposal has to feel any less special. In fact, choosing a cosy, thoughtful spot shows that you’ve put real care into the experience.

Indoor proposal ideas:

• Book a private room at your favourite restaurant or hotel

• Visit a greenhouse or conservatory like the Barbican Conservatory or Kew Gardens’ Palm House

• Propose during a museum or gallery tour with a quiet, meaningful backdrop

• Rent a small cinema room and play a short video or slideshow before popping the question

• Book a private pod on the London Eye

The key is to make it feel intentional, not like a rushed change of plans. You’re not “escaping” the rain, you’re creating your own little world.

Your partner won’t care if it’s raining. They’ll remember how you looked at them. What you said. The feeling of the moment.

It’s easy to get caught up in planning the “perfect” proposal, but some of the most unforgettable moments are the ones that don’t go exactly as planned.

A little wind, some raindrops, a laugh over wet shoes, maybe even a rainbow; it all becomes part of the story. And I’ll be there to capture it, rain and all.

Rain might not be what you pictured, but it doesn’t have to take away from the magic of your London proposal.

With a flexible mindset, a few smart prep moves, and a photographer who knows how to roll with the weather, you’ll still get beautiful, emotional photos and a story you’ll never forget.

And who knows? It might just be even more romantic than you imagined.

Want amazing photos and help planning a proposal that works in any weather? As a London-based proposal photographer, I’m here to help make it perfect, rain or shine.