How to plan a proposal?

You are now ready to ask that special person you want to spend the rest of your life with them. So the question is, how will you do it? What are the most important things you want to remember for that day?

Here is your easy checklist to follow.

Where will the Location be?

What Time of the day?

What will I Wear?

Do you want it Intimate or in front of others?

How do I keep it Secret?

Should I get down on One Knee?

Bonus: Read to the end and find out.

Location

Location, like many things, is the first crucial step in planning a proposal because you want to pick a place that makes you comfortable. This is the start of the next chapter of the rest of your lives together. When someone asks you, “How did you propose?” you want to reminisce on how special that place is to you. If you love a city feel, do it in front of an iconic landmark or have the skyline of the city be the incredible backdrop for that moment. But are you a beach person who wants to propose on the sand and have the waves crashing in the background? Maybe you want to be in the comfort of your home, which you already share, so it can just be the two of you. Pick a place that invites romance for your future stories.

What time of Day?

Next, picking the time of day, it can be simple. You want to pick a time that does not seem so strange that now your partner is trying to guess what is going on. You want to keep this as the biggest and best secret you will ever keep from your future spouse. Then, if it's going to be outside, lighting is important. You may want the picturesque feel of the sun going down or in the mornings when you are going for your usual morning walk with the dogs, you can prose in a park. Now, if it's inside, lighting is not as important, but you still want to make it unexpected so your partner can be surprised.

What will you wear?

What you are wearing should go along with the location and what you will be doing after. If you want to get dressed up because you have planned a dinner after, you should get dressed up. If you are going to be in a New York City Marathon, then dress casually to fit the vibe. When you are thinking about clothing, also remember how your hair and nails look.

Do you want an intimate proposal or in front of others?

You have to think do you want or mind people watching your proposal if you go out in public or do you want it just with your favorite person? This point really depends on your personality; some people don't want to be in the middle of Times Square or be their face on the jumbotron of a sporting event, but they would not mind it at a park on Sunday morning where many people won't be around at that time. Most important, people really want it to be heartfelt. Maybe in your home or while hiking on a trail, the beautiful sounds of nature surround you.

How do I keep it a secret?

Keeping a secret from your significant other can be unfamiliar territory because you are open and tell each other everything. But you want to make this a surprise. You want it to be a special moment for both of you. So, you have to find a strategic way to hide the ring. You have to make sure it is the right size, and if you need help with planning the proposal, only tell people who are good at keeping secrets.

Should I get down on one knee?

Now for most men reading this, you may be thinking this is a no brainer, of course I am going to get down on one knee. But what if you are a woman proposing? Do you want to get down on one knee, but also do you have to? Getting down on one knee when proposing is a tradition many people do. But just because others do it, does not mean you have to. Go with your gut and what feels right.

Now, I think men should always get down on one knee. So if anyone is doing this tradition, here are some tips, make sure your back is straight and not hunched over. Second raise the ring box and keep it at eye level with you. Third, take your time and say something sweet to the person you are proposing to. Last is to practice a few times so you don’t feel awkward when doing it.

***Bonus***

Hire a photographer.

I know, I had to sneak this one in there. Just remember the photos from the day will always bring up those emotions, and the abundance of love you both are feeling. You want a professional photographer to capture it. What is also great about hiring me as your photographer, I help you with all of this and even more. I will be your Third Wheel Specialist, helping you plan and giving you support on how your vision can be brought to life.