Professional figure skater and Dancing On Ice star Vanessa Bauer has announced she is set to marry former Reading FC footballer James Rowe. The 29-year-old shared the joyous news on Instagram this weekend, revealing her partner proposed during a romantic skate on a frozen lake.
A Picture-Perfect Proposal on Ice
Vanessa Bauer took to social media on Saturday to reveal that James Rowe had popped the question in a breathtaking winter setting. Professionally captured images show the moment James got down on one knee on a frozen lake, surrounded by snow-capped mountains.
The skater, dressed in a patterned cable-knit sweater with hot pants and tights, was pictured gliding hand-in-hand with James, who wore a khaki barn jacket for the occasion. "The love of my life. we're getting married," Vanessa captioned the intimate snaps.
From Lapland to Bali: A Whirlwind Romance
The couple first went public with their relationship in December 2024, sharing a series of loved-up photographs from a festive trip to Lapland, Finland. Their romance has since blossomed, with the pair enjoying a sun-drenched holiday in Bali in the summer of 2025.
During the Balinese getaway, Vanessa posted eye-catching photos of herself in a two-piece swimsuit, as well as a sweet picture of the couple cuddling during a meal. She described herself as "happiest by the water" in a post thanking a stranger for capturing a "beautiful moment" of them watching the sunrise on the beach.
Past Relationships and Future Plans
Prior to her relationship with James Rowe, Vanessa was in a nine-month relationship with businessman Dan Underwood. The pair split amicably in June 2024, with sources citing busy careers and long-distance challenges. They reportedly remain on good terms.
James Rowe, now a football coach and FIFA-licensed agent, retired from playing after a career that included spells at Reading FC, Cheltenham Town, and Aldershot Town. The couple have not yet announced a date for their forthcoming wedding.
