How to Plan the Perfect Proposal
If you’re reading this, you’re probably ready to pop a very special question to a very special someone. If so, congratulations! As a wedding and engagement photographer, I’ve had the honor of being a part of this special milestone for many couples, and there are a few things to keep in mind when planning the perfect proposal. Here are my top tips for making sure your proposal is perfect (both for your person and for the camera!)
Know Your Partner’s Style
The first thing to keep in mind is what your partner likes. Do they enjoy being the center of attention? Do they prefer a more private setting? Would they want to celebrate with friends and family? Or would they rather it be just the two of you? Do you think they would want the proposal to be photographed? Whatever your partner’s preferences are, keep those at the forefront of your mind when preparing to propose.
Craft the Right Cover Story
More than likely, this proposal will be a surprise for your partner. If you want to keep it a surprise, you have to think ahead about how to get them in the right spot at the right time. If you are planning on having the proposal photographed, you also will want them to be dressed nicely for the photos (whatever definition of that fits). You may want to enlist the help of friends or family to get your partner to the right place in the right attire! Make it believable but don’t give away the whole surprise.
Write it Out
Chances are when it comes time to actually get down on one knee, you may be a bit nervous. That’s totally normal! Think about what you want to say ahead of time and write it out. You can write a full speech or just bullet points, but having a plan will make things much easier when the time comes. If you want to speak straight from the heart, that’s totally fine too! Just make sure you have a general idea of the important things so that you get everything out.
Communication is Key
If you decide to hire a photographer, definitely schedule some time to talk through the exact plans with them! Send pictures of the exact spot you plan to propose. Let them know what you’ll be wearing so that they can keep an eye out for you. While photographers are prepared for anything, we need to know the game plan so that we don’t miss the big moment! If you move to a different spot without telling us, we may not have time to re set equipment if needed. Communication is key.
Bring in Props
To really up your game, bring in some extra props! Set up a little picnic, pack a bottle of champagne, set up some flowers. It doesn’t have to be extravagant if that’s not your style, but your partner will definitely notice the attention to detail if you add in some extra elements. If you don’t have time to set it up yourself, you can always enlist some friends or family to help you out.
Location
Check the location that you’re thinking of proposing at requires a photography permit or not. It’s best practice to contact the appropriate people in charge of your desired location if there are additional steps that you need to take to be able to propose and to have photography. Better to be safe and have all your bases covered.
No matter how you decide to propose, the most important thing is to be genuine and show your partner how much they mean to you. You’ve got this!
Ready to book your own proposal photography? Contact me here to get started!
xoxo misterdebs
Ready to book your own wedding photography? Contact me here to get started!
