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How to Plan the Perfect Proposal

How to Plan the Perfect Proposal


Cat Arnott
Cat Arnott Updated:
8th of March 2023

Whether you’ve already bought the ring or you’ve just started considering popping the question, you’ll be wondering how to plan the perfect proposal. Asking someone to marry you is a big deal, so it’s normal to feel nervous. Being prepared is one of the best ways to ease those nerves! So here we have answers to the key questions that go through your head when planning a proposal so your engagement goes off without a hitch!

Should the Proposal be a Surprise? 

Proposal

First, it’s important to make sure you both have marriage on the brain. Talk to your partner about the future. However, this doesn’t mean the proposal itself can’t be a surprise! Some couples may prefer to plan some elements together, such as choosing a ring together, then keep the actual proposal a surprise. Others may want to keep everything a complete surprise from their partner! It depends on your relationship and what you think is best.

Should the Proposal be Public or Private? 

Proposal

You know your partner’s personality and preferences! So, think about the type of proposal your partner will love, whether it’s a grand gesture, an intimate moment, or a surprise surrounded by family and friends. Remember that not everyone likes being the center of attention. Make sure they’re up for a public proposal before you plan something elaborate or over-the-top involving a large crowd of people. 

When Should You Propose? 

Proposal

Certain holidays, such as Christmas, New Year’s, and Valentine’s Day, are incredibly popular dates for proposals. However, you might want to consider a more personal date, such as the anniversary of your first date, the day you met or the day you realised you wanted to propose! Or you might want to choose a completely random date to create a new anniversary. For example, you could choose a certain time of year, such as autumn, because you want the autumnal colours for an outdoor proposal. It’s entirely up to you! 

Where Should You Propose? 

Proposal

You could pick a sentimental location, such as the location of your first date or kiss. On the other hand, you could pick a completely new location, such as somewhere your partner has always wanted to visit. The potential locations are endless, indoors or outdoors, from restaurants or landmarks, to parks and mountains or even your own home! Think about the tone and atmosphere your partner would feel most comfortable in, as well as practicalities such as weather and privacy.

Who Can Help With the Proposal? 

Proposal

You may want to keep your proposal a complete surprise to everyone! However, it will help your logistics, and your nerves, if you have a few loved ones in the loop. Parents, siblings, or best friends are all great for bouncing off proposal ideas or giving you an alibi for ring shopping! Just keep it to one or two people and make sure they can keep a secret!  

How Do You Choose An Engagement Ring? 

Proposal

Of course, this is one of the areas where planning a proposal together makes it easier!  You want your fiancé to fall in love with the ring you pick out for them so it can feel like a daunting task if you’re trying to figure that out in secret. There are a lot of things to consider when trying to find the perfect engagement ring style. Take a look at the jewellery they wear every day or ask one of your secret advisors for help! Then, jewellers can also help with recommendations once you have some basic ideas.

You will also need to investigate their ring size, one of the trickiest parts of the planning process! If they have rings they already wear regularly, you could use that to get a size approximation. Or, enlist the help of a friend to subtly get an idea. But don’t worry too much, there’s always resizing! 

Should You Have a Photographer?

Proposal

You could consider having a photographer out-of-site but nearby to snap professional shots of the special moment. Whether you hire a professional or have a trusted friend and their iPhone standing by, they can hang out close to your proposal spot and covertly capture amazing photos of your proposal scene. However, hiring an expert means they will know how to capture the light, make your setting look even more magical, and position themselves to get priceless reaction shots. You can even then have an impromptu engagement shoot as a bonus!

How Do You Ask the Question?

Proposal

You don’t need to have your speech totally written out, but spend a little time jotting down what you’d like to say. The last thing you want to do is get on one knee only to find out you have no idea what to say! Getting your thoughts on paper will give you some direction when it’s time to pop the question, even if you end up winging half of it anyway.

When it comes time to ask, take a deep breath, and don’t rush through your proposal. Take it slow, make sure you say everything you want to say, and finally, don’t rush their answer!

What Should You Plan for After the Proposal? 

Couple celebrating engagement

You know your partner best so whether they’ll want a private celebration for just you two or friends and family waiting in the wings is up to you. However, make sure you have something planned. This isn’t an engagement party, just a simple celebration immediately following your engagement to make sure the rest of the day. For example, book a table at your favorite restaurant, have some champagne at home or meet some loved ones for a drink. This is a celebration of your love, so it should be personal and right for you! 

Now you have the proposal ideas it's time to choose the ring. Check out the latest engagement ring trends to get some ideas, or if you already know, find a jeweller now.

Cat Arnott

About the author


Cat Arnott

With a Masters degree in History, Cat is the best person to consult if you need wedding facts and information fast. Her passion for weddings has led to her having a broad and up to date knowledge of trends and traditions and she is here to research on your behalf to find the answer to any wedding related problem.

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