Surprise Proposal! - Here’s what you need to know!
This is a subject I have given a lot of thought to. I’ve seen and heard everything from “You know we’re getting married, right?” over the usual dinner at home to writing the words in the sky with an airplane. The number one thing to keep in mind is based on the person you are proposing to.
There are a couple of questions you should try to answer before you start planning:
Ring shopping! I remember bringing it up to my now husband, and he was so confused about how it’s supposed to be a surprise if we go shopping together. Not everyone knows what they want before they meet the right person, so you should definitely find that out together. Others, like me, know what shape and metal they want, which is a great place to start.
Would they like a skywriter, or would they want something small and intimate?
Do they usually get their nails done? If so, make sure those nails are fresh before the proposal. I would hate for the sentence, “I wish I had gotten my nails done,” to make its way out during photos. If they don’t usually, then don’t go out of your way, or it will be suspicious.
Do you want a photographer? Here’s the thing. It can be expensive, but the fact that a part of planning a wedding will already be taken care of before the planning starts is a huge weight off your shoulders. Not to mention, if you love your photographer, you can book them for the wedding!
Once you have answered some of those questions, I have some suggestions. I also have some vendors to reach out to if you are local to the Denver - Littleton area!
Simple and intimate version:
Make a plan for dinner, and execute it yourself. Don’t let them lift a finger. Get some flowers, their favorite drink, and set up the living room for a movie night. Whatever sounds most appealing to you both as a couple. Say some sweet words and pop the question. Simple doesn’t necessarily mean zero effort. But what this setup would mean is that there was thought and intent behind it.
Middle of the road version:
Plan a date night! Contact a photographer and either ask them to meet you somewhere or ask for suggestions. This most likely won’t be the first time they have done something similar, so use their expertise. Make a reservation at a special restaurant. Tell your significant other to be dressed and ready to go by a certain time. Make sure their nails, hair, and outfit are up to their standards. FLOWERS. This can be something as simple as getting a bouquet from the grocery store or reaching out to some local flower vendors to get something created for the big moment. Pop the question, get your photos taken, and then go to your dinner!
Top of the line:
Rent out a space that you can use all your own for as long as you like. Maybe a restaurant or a venue. Hire a photographer/videographer to capture the entire proposal and engagement photos afterward. Hire a florist and really put effort into an elaborate setup. When I am planning styled shoots, I love to give them an idea and then say, “I trust your expertise!” Tell your significant other to be dressed and ready to go by a certain time. Make sure their nails, hair, and outfit are up to their standards. You could even splurge and get all of that scheduled for them! Make it seem like it will be a very elaborate date night!
Take the reins on this subject and go out of your way to plan something wonderful to be remembered. This part is just for the two of you. The next year (depending on what type of wedding you plan) will be about venues, meals, dresses, colors, and planners. It can be a lot. Make sure this first part is special.
Talk soon,
Kate
