So you want to pop the question…

You’ve decided to take the plunge and ask the question, and I mean the BIG QUESTION! The one where you get down on one knee and present that lovely box and stumble through your speech about friendship, love and your hopes for the future. It can be nerve wracking to imagine all of the details falling in place before your knee hits the ground. Have no fear, Sparrowood Jewelers is here to help you find the right ring to do it! Beyond our selection of engagement rings and bands we focus on custom jewelry to make your significant other’s eyes well the moment you open the box.

Whether they are down to earth or can’t resist a good skyline here are some of our favorite places to pop the question in the Triangle:

1) Duke Gardens

This wouldn’t be a list of the most romantic places if the Sarah P. Duke Gardens wasn’t at the very top. Open 365 days of the year, the gardens have 55 acres of lush greenery and walkways so it’s easy to find a secluded spot. There is also a large area for a romantic picnic on a sunny day. The gardens also give the option of professional photography with permits if you really want to capture the moment when they say YES!

2) JC Raluston Arboretum

Similar to the Duke Gardens, the Arboretum offers 10 acres of gardens with a secluded gazebo in the ‘white garden.’ Photographers are welcome without fee and you can take advantage of the golden hour before going out to celebrate in nearby downtown Raleigh.

3) The Raleigh Rose Garden

Full of roses and perennials, this park is attached to Raleigh’s Little Theatre. See a show, or just taking a stroll to stop and smell the roses is a perfect excuse to bend the knee (pardon our pun.)

4) Eno River State Park

Feeling more adventurous? Eno River State Park has multiple trails leading to Eno Quarry – the ultimate hidden gem in the Triangle. The quarry has filled over time with water and is the perfect place to take a leap into marriage together! There is no security there, so be careful with any personal items if you choose to swim.

5) Lake Johnson Park

Graduates of NCSU know of nearby Jordan Lake’s walking and running path, but did you know you can also rent kayaks in the summer? Rentals are very inexpensive and offers a more private moment in a unforgettable setting. Just make sure to wear sunscreen!

6) Raleigh Times Rooftop Bar

EXTRA! EXTRA! Read all about it! The Raleigh Times is newspaper turned nightlife hot spot in downtown Raleigh. The bar offers rooftop access, weather permitting, to see the skyline. Bonus, you can book the second-floor bar and rooftop to celebrate your engagement immediately after!

7) Sunflower Fields at Dorothea Dix

Summer lovin’ couples (and their pups) LOVE Dorothea Dix. The sunflower fields are open to the public from sunrise to sunset and offer some of the best views the Triangle has to offer! A destination for photographers and families alike you’ll never look at sunflowers the same after this!

8) Duke Chapel

A picturesque scene for all Durham-lovers it towers 210 feet. The chapel is in the middle of Duke’s campus with an English Gothic feel. For a traditional proposal, it is hard to imagine anything more symbolic than this gorgeous chapel.