A fairytale unfolded on the frozen canvas of a Canadian lake, marking a new chapter for Dancing On Ice star Vanessa Bauer. The professional skater, known for her grace and artistry on the ice, said “yes” to a proposal from her footballer boyfriend, James Rowe, in a scene straight from a winter dream.
Their love story began unexpectedly in December 2024, sparked by a direct message that led to a London date. Soon after, a trip to Lapland sealed their connection, with Vanessa declaring it the happiest she’d ever been. Now, less than a year later, James has asked her to be his wife, choosing a breathtakingly romantic setting for the momentous occasion.
The proposal took place on the icy surface of Vermilion Lakes in Banff, surrounded by majestic mountains and snow-dusted trees. James, remarkably, got down on one knee… while still wearing his skates. As the sun illuminated the frozen landscape, Vanessa’s heart overflowed with joy, a radiant smile reflecting the beauty around her.
“The love of my life. we’re getting married,” Vanessa shared on Instagram, accompanied by stunning photos of the proposal. The outpouring of congratulations from friends and fellow performers was immediate, a testament to the couple’s genuine connection and the magic of the moment.
For Vanessa, the location held a special significance. She’d dreamed of skating on frozen lakes her entire life, making it the perfect backdrop for this life-altering question. Adding to the enchantment, a vibrant sunset appeared after a snowstorm, a breathtaking gift from nature that seemed to underscore the perfection of the day.
The moment itself was overwhelming, Vanessa recalled, feeling as though James was miles away as she knelt before her. Her immediate response wasn’t a composed acceptance, but a heartfelt desire to embrace him – “Yes, of course I’m going to marry you. Now come up here and give me a hug!”
The occasion carried a deeper resonance, as Vanessa felt the presence of her late father, who passed away in 2021 after a long battle with cancer. She described it as a “blessing from nature,” making the milestone even more precious and profoundly moving.
James, equally moved, had secretly been learning to skate in recent months, wanting to share this part of Vanessa’s world with her. He admitted to tears and a near giveaway of his plans, having been “extremely nervous” in the lead-up to the proposal. He’d even begun planning the moment on the flight home from their initial trip, carefully concealing his preparations for weeks.
The couple is eager to begin planning their wedding, envisioning a celebration that doesn’t involve a lengthy engagement. While the proposal took place in the heart of winter, Vanessa dreams of a more tropical setting for the ceremony, perhaps Bali, to honor her Indonesian heritage and create a warm, inclusive atmosphere for their loved ones.
This new chapter follows a celebrated career on the ice, where Vanessa has captivated audiences with her pairings on Dancing On Ice. From Jake Quickenden to Wes Nelson and Joey Essex, she’s shared unforgettable moments with a diverse range of celebrity partners, leaving an indelible mark on the show.
Though the future of Dancing On Ice is currently uncertain, with the series taking a break in 2026, Vanessa’s personal life is brimming with joy and anticipation. As she prepares to embark on this new adventure with James, it’s clear that their love story is only just beginning.
