Planning the perfect proposal can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be! By following a few simple steps, you can create a memorable and romantic moment that your partner will always cherish.

1. Make your proposal personal

Different people have different ideas of the perfect proposal. Some may prefer a grand, public display with many people involved, while others may prefer a more intimate and private moment. It’s important to consider your partner’s preferences and try to understand what their ideal proposal would look like.

2. Chat with their loved ones if needed

It is always a good idea to have the support of your partner’s loved ones when planning a proposal. Asking for their parents’ permission can be a thoughtful and respectful gesture, especially in certain cultures. But you’re probably a better judge to determine whether external support is a priority to you and/or your partner. Additionally, having the help and input of family and friends can be helpful in brainstorming ideas, setting up the proposal, and even providing an alibi on the day of. Ultimately, having the support of your partner’s loved ones can make the proposal process more enjoyable and help ensure a successful outcome.

3. Practice what you’re going to say

Proposing to the person you love can be intimidating, no matter how confident you are in other areas of your life. It’s natural to feel nervous, and this can sometimes cause a lack of words. To help calm your nerves and boost your confidence, consider writing down what you want to say and practicing a few times beforehand. You can practice in front of the mirror or with a friend to get a feel for how your words will sound. This can help you feel more prepared and confident when the big moment arrives.

4. Scope out the proposal site

As you get closer to the proposal, it’s important to choose the right location. This could be a special place like the restaurant where you had your first date, a beautiful mountain or beach location, or any other spot that has special meaning to you and your partner. Once you have decided on the proposal site, consider taking a picture or writing down detailed instructions on how to get there. This will be helpful for your photographer or anyone else who is helping you with the proposal setup.

5. Have a backup plan (or two!) just in case

It’s always smart to have a contingency plan in place in the event that something goes wrong with your proposal. For example, if you have planned a romantic picnic in a flower field and there’s rain in the forecast it’s important to have a backup plan in place. This could involve rescheduling the proposal to a different time or having an indoor location on standby. A “plan B” will help ensure that the proposal goes smoothly despite any unexpected challenges.

6. Create a backstory

On the day of the proposal, it can be helpful to enlist the help of friends and family to create a backstory that will throw your partner off your scent. This can involve providing explanations for any unusual activities, such as getting their nails done, dressing up, or being unavailable for a certain period of time. By creating a cohesive and believable story, you can help maintain the element of surprise and make the proposal more memorable.

7. Have your photographer on standby

As a photographer, I understand the importance of capturing the momentous occasion of a proposal. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime event that deserves to be documented. That’s why I always recommend having a photographer present to capture those special moments. Whether you want to surprise your partner with a couple’s photoshoot or have me hidden in a sneaky spot, I’m here to help you create beautiful, professional photos that you can look back on for years to come.

8. Plan how you’re going to celebrate!

As you plan the perfect proposal, don’t forget to consider what comes next – how will you and your partner celebrate after you get the all-important “yes”? You could bring along a bottle of champagne to share, or have friends and family gather at a designated location to celebrate with you. Whatever you choose, make sure to take the time to enjoy this special moment and savor your newly engaged status.

Planning the perfect proposal takes some thought and planning, but it’s worth it to create a moment that you and your partner will always remember. Think about your partner’s personality and what they would enjoy, involve their loved ones, and choose a location that holds special meaning. Personalize the details to make it extra special, and practice what you’re going to say so you feel more confident. It can also be helpful to create a backstory to keep the surprise alive. Don’t forget to have a backup plan in case something goes wrong, and consider hiring a photographer to capture the moment for you. Above all, make sure to stay present and let the love and emotion flow naturally.