Our Top 7 Epic Romantic Gestures from Recent History

Valentine's Day might often be met with scepticism or dismissed as just another commercial event, but love remains a force that defies cynicism. Bold, imaginative romantic gestures continue to inspire and uplift, proving that expressing love on a grand scale is anything but passé. By sharing real-life examples of unbridled love, we hope to inspire you to embrace romance in your own unique way. Get ready to be enchanted by our Top 7 Epic Romantic Gestures from Recent History!

1. Blooming Devotion: A Dress of 9,999 Red Roses

Xiao Fan proposing to his girlfriend, Yin Mi
Image source: https://tinyurl.com/59ez7hzb 

Some see flowers as the ultimate expression of love, although a single rose often does the trick. One man, Xiao Fan, in China, decided to go further - 9,998 roses further, to be exact. He proposed to his girlfriend, Yin Mi, by presenting her with a dress crafted from 9,999 real red roses. The creation looked like something from a dream, as if each petal were carefully stitched to build an enchanting crimson gown.

A team of dressmakers worked around the clock, to piece together this masterpiece in time for the big moment; and Yin Mi patiently waited as it was adjusted on the day. The end result was both magical and utterly romantic. When she stepped into this rose-covered ensemble, surrounded by onlookers who had gathered for the occasion, the atmosphere felt electric. By the time he dropped to one knee, it was clear this wasn't just a gift. There was a reason for an order of 9,999 roses. In Chinese culture, the number nine represents 'forever'. So essentially, Xiao Fan was saying that he will love her forever and forever and forever and forever! Now that's romantic devotion!

2. Cinema Magic: A Fairy-Tale Proposal Come to Life

Lee Loechler & Sthuthi
Image source: https://tinyurl.com/3tfjxxvz 

The idea of rewriting an animated classic seems like something that would only happen in a Hollywood script. One man, Lee Loechler, decided to do exactly that for his girlfriend, Sthuthi David. He spent months re-animating the iconic Disney film Sleeping Beauty, turning the main characters into cartoon versions of himself and his beloved. Then, he booked a cinema and arranged for family and friends to be seated behind them.

As they watched the film, Sthuthi noticed the princess on screen looked a lot like her - same hair, same features. The prince soon morphed into Lee. At that moment, the cartoon prince held up a ring and Lee stood from his seat in the real world to pop the question. Sthuthi said yes to a heartfelt burst of applause. That blend of creativity, dedication and genuine affection proves that modern love can still feel like a fairy tale.

3. Building Monuments: Love Written in Stone (or Cement)

The scaled down version of the Taj Mahal
Image source: https://tinyurl.com/y9js86hb 

Love is famously embodied by the Taj Mahal in Agra - a masterpiece that moves millions and symbolises eternal devotion. In modern times, some choose to capture that legacy in their own unique way. Indian businessman Anand Prakash Chouksey, 52, a hospital owner from Burhanpur in central India, took this sentiment to heart. After jokingly promising his wife that he would build her a Taj Mahal if she ever passed away, she made it clear she wanted to live. Undeterred, Anand set out to create a one‐third sized replica of the iconic monument that she could call home.

Using white marble sourced from the same Rajasthan quarry as the original, Anand meticulously recreated the Taj Mahal's large dome, intricate minarets and delicate artwork. The project took three years to complete and cost approximately $260,000. More than a mere architectural exercise, this personal monument serves as a daily reminder of his unwavering love and commitment. In a world where carved initials on ancient walls and bespoke home designs are common, Anand's creation stands as a bold declaration that when love is genuine, it is worth every effort to build something that endures.

Love, after all, is not confined to the grandiose; it is expressed in the details, the craft and the courage to turn a heartfelt promise into a lasting legacy.

4. Farms and Fiancées: Marrying Quirk and Countryside

Image source: https://tinyurl.com/38u2xnm6 

Tom Heal (25) from Hinkley Point, Somerset in South West England wanted his proposal to reflect the rural life he shares with his long-time girlfriend, 25-year-old Chloe Morley. He carefully mowed the words "Marry Me?" into one of his fields, making sure they were tall enough to be seen clearly from a particular vantage point. When Chloe arrived, she spotted the question etched across the grass, realised it was just for her - and said yes straight away.

Local friends admired Tom's blend of rustic charm and heartfelt romance. News outlets picked up their story, praising the sheer sweetness of turning a simple field into something memorable. For Tom and Chloe, the proposal felt like the perfect match for how they've built their lives together: hard work, fresh air and moments of pure joy stretching out under an open sky.

5. Crossing Continents on Two Wheels

PK & Charlotte
Image source: https://tinyurl.com/v4wxvyv6 

Distance can be a challenge for couples, though some refuse to let that stand in the way. Pradyumna Kumar, known as PK, set out in the 1970s to cycle from India to Sweden to be reunited with Charlotte Von Schedvin, the woman he loved. The bike ride took him 4 months and 3 weeks and his journey took him across multiple countries, through changing climates and unknown territories. It was no comfortable holiday, more a test of endurance and faith in his relationship.

He arrived at his destination, married the woman who had captured his heart and settled into a new life. Their story has since been turned into a novel, called The Amazing Story of the Man Who Cycled from India to Europe for Love, which Booklist described as "A beautiful, epic tale of love and perseverance."

Their story has also become a beacon of hope for those in long-distance romances and epitomises the fact that effort remains a powerful language.

6. When Words Speak Louder Than Wallets: Letters, Poems and Old-Fashioned Romance

10,000 letters filed chronologically in 25 boxes at the Bresnan's home in Tom Rivers
Image source: https://tinyurl.com/22yfjp98 

Bill Bresnan, a New Jersey native, decided decades ago that grand gestures needn't always cost a fortune. He wrote his wife Kirsten a love letter every single day for nearly 40 years, tucking notes into envelopes or leaving them by her bedside to discover first thing in the morning. His words weren't about extravagant vows or epic travels; they focused on daily life, shared memories and the things he cherished most about their relationship. These letters piled up in boxes, forming a remarkable testimony to the power of devotion expressed in the simplest way - one pen stroke at a time.

It's easy to forget how meaningful a well-chosen phrase or heartfelt sentence can be when everything else feels hurried. For Bill and Kirsten, the letters became a routine they both treasured. Even in a world of smartphones and instant messaging, their story highlights the timeless impact of an old-fashioned note. 

Love letters turn ordinary days into small celebrations, proving that sincerity and consistency can outshine the most lavish of gifts.

7. Flash Mobs, Public Stunts and Going Viral

Dave proposing to Yi - (his very soon to be fiancé) - in TImes Square
Image source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gol8Eek9VcE 

There's something magical about sweeping a loved one into the spotlight in front of a thrilled crowd. One couple, Dave and his fiancée, Yi, turned Times Square into their own stage on a chilly November day. Dave had been planning since August, secretly coordinating a string of so-called "stations" around the area. Each station played a tiny part in their relationship's history - like a favourite song or a nod to a special memory - leading the unsuspecting Yi, closer to the final big moment.

He recruited a diverse team of dancers and videographers, obtained permits and even created an online tutorial for anyone who couldn't attend rehearsals in person. The day itself was far from perfect. Two videographers got lost, the timeline ran late and a police officer asked a few questions about the spontaneous show. Yet somehow, it all came together when Dave stepped into the centre of an impromptu dance circle. The music kicked in, passers-by paused in astonishment and one unforgettable proposal took shape.

Times Square erupted in applause. Onlookers shared the excitement, phones captured the moment... and Yi said yes with tears in her eyes. It was proof that even in one of the world's busiest locations, love can become the main event for a few precious minutes. The entire experience, documented by friends and family, still stands as a reminder that sometimes going big pays off in the most heart-warming way.

Why Real Love Deserves the Spotlight

Love encourages us to innovate, extend ourselves and show kindness beyond measure.

From monumental creations and creative reimaginings to daily expressions of affection, love  finds its way into every aspect of our lives. These varied stories illustrate a shared willingness to offer something precious, highlighting the profound impact of heartfelt gestures. Relationships fortified by faith and bolstered by bold, loving actions can nurture the soul and ignite inspiration in others. But on another level, perhaps the essence of these epic romantic gestures is to motivate us all to celebrate and prioritise love in our own lives, encouraging us to take that extra step for our loved ones and create our own beautiful stories of devotion.

Disclaimer:
This piece shares a curated selection of worldwide accounts showcasing "extreme romantic acts." We've taken care to present accurate and current information, but details can shift over time. For specific advice or personal guidance, consider speaking to professionals or doing further research. These tales aim to inspire and entertain, rather than serve as exhaustive examples of grand gestures.

Hamilton's Property Portfolio: Serving South Africa's Upmarket Property Market
For over 20 years, Hamilton's Property Portfolio has been dedicated to meeting the needs of South Africa's upper property market. Specialising in luxury homes in prime regions such as Gauteng, the Eastern Cape, Western Cape, Garden Route and Winelands, Hamilton's is committed to providing personalised service and expert advice. 

Read our previous articles here

Contact one of our offices; we look forward to hearing from you:
Gauteng: 011 463 0155
Cape Town: 021 418 0328 
Garden Route: 044 050 3295
Eastern Cape: 076 927 7787
Winelands: 021 863 0551
Email: reception@hamiltons.co.za

Hamilton's Property Portfolio holds a Fidelity Fund Certificate issued by the Property Practitioners Regulatory Authority.