How to plan the perfect proposal

Perla Martinez Photography

With the holidays among us, cheer fills the space around us. Families are more likely to be spending intentional time together celebrating; so why not add a cherry to the top and ask the love of your life the ultimate question?

It’s a simple yes or no question – 4 word question—so what’s the big deal ?!

I laugh to myself as I picture trying to down play that simple question…. It’s a really big deal and carries about 10-12 XL suitcases with it, yall!

I love grand and intimate gestures, so here are some helpful suggestions that will almost always guarantee you a yes.

Step one, make sure to order the ring in advance… typically you cannot always walk into the store and out with a ring.  Did you know you can also work with the jeweler to create a piece unique to your fiance-- selecting the size and cut of the diamond to the thickness and mineral composition of the band.

Next focus on the location – things to consider-

·         Weather- what if it rains?

·         How busy or popular is the space?

·         How loud or quite is the space?

·         Could you bring in music?

·         Can a photographer hide at a distance inconspicuously ?

·         Is it a spot that stunning visually ?

·         Is it a spot that holds sentimental value to your relationship ?

Perla Martinez Photography

Next you need to enlist a little bit of help. I would go ahead and find a great photographer and/ or videographer and clue them on your plan, so they can capture this incredible moment. Depending on how elaborate you want to make this event, to be look into hiring some live musicians and special lighting to enhance the space.

This incredibly romantic moment will be talked about for the rest of your lives and shared with kids and grand children so it is so worth it to make it extra!

So how will this all go down-- this is very important. How will you get your soon to be fiancé to the desired location—will you take her—will she meet you there—will a friend bring her? Make sure to have a back up plan in place if for some reason you are met with stubborn/ questioning antics.

When you get down on one knee (still comes highly recommended) keep it short, simple and to the point…. Typically most soon to be brides can’t remember anything you say because this is a moment they have dreamed about their entire lives and it feel like an out of body experience.

Pull the ring out and if she says “yes” you place the ring on her left hand’s ring finger and you win!!

You can elevate and make this experience absolutely more magical and surprising  if you can pull off a small engagement party of her closest friends and family members. I like to suggest a nice 5-10 minute walk away from where the proposal took place. This allows time for you to celebrate together and bask in the excitement. Keep this engagement party light and refreshing like a cocktail hour that promotes mingling versus a sit down dinner.

Lucy Steiner Photography

One of the first things a newly engaged couple wants to do is share the joyful news with their closest friends and family – so why not have them all waiting to tell them all at the same time.

I found more brides prefer to be in a more intimate private location when proposed to, but really enjoy being surrounded by an adoring crowd afterwards.

 In conclusion take some time to really think out the logistics, try to incorporate all five senses, really play up on the element of surprise and don’t forget to ask for help—its so much easier with some help.

You know your partner better than anyone and what they love. Creating this special moment for them…knowing that how much time and effort you put forward will speak volumes to your character and love for them. Just one little four word question “will you marry me” and you will be sure to get a yes!

Lucy Steiner Photography