Darko's Surprise Proposal to Bailey at Glen Eyrie Castle

One of the biggest advantages of hiring a marriage proposal photographer is having someone help coordinate all the moving pieces beforehand. Glen Eyrie Castle is a private property and event venue, so planning ahead is important if you are hoping to propose there.

Darko worked directly with the castle staff ahead of time to obtain approval for both the proposal and photography on the grounds. Glen Eyrie is fairly clear and strict regarding photography permissions. Visitors can typically obtain a photography permit through the front desk, or photography access may already be included if you are staying overnight on the property.

Since my wife loves high tea, I have spent quite a bit of time at Glen Eyrie Castle over the years and am very familiar with the grounds, lighting, and quieter locations that work well for surprise proposals and engagement photography.

After finishing tea inside the castle, Darko and Bailey exited the building and slowly walked toward the bridge just outside. The late afternoon light was filtering through the trees while the castle towers rose behind them against the red rock cliffs.

Right before crossing the bridge, Darko stopped, turned toward Bailey, and dropped down onto one knee.

Bailey immediately looked stunned before breaking into tears and laughter as Darko asked her to marry him. Of course, she said yes.

Once the surprise settled in, I came out from hiding and introduced myself before we spent the rest of the evening wandering the property taking engagement photos around the grounds. We explored the pathways, stone bridges, gardens, and open lawns before finishing near the mountain sheep herd that lives on the property. They were surprisingly curious and made a fun ending to an already memorable proposal evening.

Glen Eyrie Castle has one of the most fascinating histories in Colorado Springs. The estate was originally built by General William Jackson Palmer, the founder of Colorado Springs and the Denver & Rio Grande Railroad.

Palmer first acquired the land in the early 1870s after exploring the area on horseback. He was captivated by the dramatic rock formations and natural beauty of the canyon and eventually purchased more than 2,000 acres of property surrounding what is now known as Glen Eyrie.

Construction of the original English Tudor-style castle began in 1871. Over time, additional wings and buildings were added to the estate as Palmer expanded the property into a full residence and retreat. The castle became well known for hosting important guests, political figures, military leaders, and international visitors during the late 1800s.

After Palmer's death in 1909, ownership of the estate changed hands several times before eventually being purchased in 1953 by The Navigators, a Christian ministry organization headquartered in Colorado Springs. Today, the property continues to operate as a retreat center, conference venue, lodging destination, tea house, and event space while preserving much of the original architecture and historic charm.

One of the most popular experiences at Glen Eyrie Castle is their traditional English-style high tea service. Tea reservations are extremely popular throughout the year and often book well in advance, especially during holidays and peak summer weekends.

Guests are served a rotating menu of teas alongside pastries, sandwiches, desserts, and seasonal treats inside the historic castle dining rooms. It makes for a perfect date idea, anniversary celebration, or proposal setup before heading outside onto the grounds.

Glen Eyrie frequently hosts seasonal events, holiday teas, concerts, historical tours, overnight retreats, and special dining experiences throughout the year.

To reserve your own high tea experience or learn more about upcoming events, visit:

https://gleneyrie.org/

Glen Eyrie Castle
3820 N 30th St
Colorado Springs, CO 80904
Phone: (719) 265-7050

Glen Eyrie Castle offers one of the most unique proposal locations in Colorado. The property combines historic architecture, mountain scenery, quiet walking paths, dramatic red rock formations, and intimate gardens all in one location.

For couples looking for a proposal photographer in Colorado Springs or someone experienced with capturing surprise engagements, Glen Eyrie creates an incredible backdrop that feels both elegant and adventurous at the same time.

Whether you are planning a quiet proposal after tea or an elaborate surprise involving friends and family, having a photographer help coordinate timing, locations, lighting, and logistics can make the entire experience much smoother and more relaxed.

If you are thinking about proposing at Glen Eyrie Castle and are looking for a Colorado proposal photographer to help plan, coordinate, and capture the moment, I would love to help. From selecting the best locations and timing to helping keep the surprise intact, I work closely with couples to create a proposal experience that feels personal, meaningful, and stress-free.

Contact Dylan Burr Wedding Photographer to start planning your own surprise proposal at Glen Eyrie Castle.