Romantic Proposal During LI Tulip Festival Has Crowds Cheering Couple

MANORVILLE, NY — A group visiting Waterdrinker Family Farm & Garden in Manorville Saturday had a special reason for tiptoeing through the tulips: They were trying to hide, so they could surprise a happy couple after the fiance-to-be popped the question during a romantic proposal.

As onlookers watched — the bride-to-be's mom was crouched down in a giant Dutch shoe amongst the tulips — Justin Garcia, 24, knelt down on one knee and tenderly asked Jillian Gampel, 23, to be his wife. As she said "yes," spirits soared and family and friends surrounded them with congratulations and love — all in the midst of Waterdrinker's annual Tulip Festival.

Speaking with Patch after the big day, Gampel said she and her love, who live in Coram, met through mutual friends and began dating on August 20, 2018.

Reflecting on how she knew he was The One, Gampel said: "I love his sense of humor, I love that I can be my true self with him. I love that he always has my back and is always supportive. I also love how safe and comfortable he makes me feel."

She added: "I knew he was the one when I felt a strong sense of ease and comfort with him, along with a willingness to compromise and work through challenges each and every day."

The couple's love took on new depth and dimension when their baby girl Layla Rose was born in September. "She was born the day before Justin’s birthday. Her birthday is September 8th and Justin’s birthday is September 9th so that is special to us," she said.

When Justin proposed, Gampel said she was completely surprised. But she said no spot could have been more picture-perfect. "I love the atmosphere and the Tulip Festival! It is so beautiful, family-friendly and pet-friendly. There are so many activities you can do, too."

Being surrounded by family and friends meant everything, Gampel said: "It was heartwarming to see the people that took time out to make the day so special. I was filled with so much love."

Looking ahead, Gampel said the couple is hoping to have a traditional wedding in October, 2027.

Gampel has a message for her true love: "I would like to thank him for making me feel so special, and I cannot wait to see what our future holds. We have been together since high school, so we are now high school sweethearts forever — and it’s definitely a surreal feeling. I love him with all my heart, and I couldn’t picture my life with anyone else."

As for her wish for the years to come, Gampel said: "I hope for a future filled with love, laughter, and shared adventures. I can’t wait to create more lasting memories, travel to new places, and to expand our family even more."