7 pro Tips for a Successful Marriage Proposal: What to Know Before Popping the Question
Proposing marriage is a huge moment, and while it’s easy to get caught up in all the details—like your nails, your outfit, and your hair—the main thing to remember is the love you’re about to share. So, whether you’re planning to propose or know someone who is, here are my top proposal tips to make it a day you’ll never forget.
First off, let’s talk about the pressure we put on proposals. Especially as women, we want to make sure we’re looking cute—nails done, right outfit, good hair day—and we stress over every little thing. But in reality, the focus should be on the fact that the love of your life is about to ask you an incredibly important question. You probably already know the answer or you wouldn’t be here, right? So, take a breath and remember what matters most: the love and commitment you’re about to share.
Now, when it comes to the proposal itself, I like to say it’s the proposer’s “main event” to shine. It’s their big moment to pick everything, and that’s a lot of pressure! I’m a total Type-A person, so when my boyfriend (now husband) planned this huge day (literally, an all-day event), I was so stressed wondering when the proposal was going to happen. We even went rock climbing, and by the end of it, I was covered in chalk, had chipped nails, and was feeling a little less than “Instagram-ready.” But honestly, it was an experience I’ll never forget, even though I was glad he didn’t propose there!
Tip 1: Know Your Audience
When planning your proposal, the first thing to do is think about the person you’re proposing to. What have they always imagined for this moment? Do they want something more formal or are they cool with something casual? Think about their style and preferences. For me, I had no idea what my boyfriend was planning, but looking back, I’m glad he didn’t pick something too fancy! Remember: it’s all about making the moment feel authentic to your relationship.
Tip 2: To Surprise or Not to Surprise?
This is one of the biggest questions when it comes to proposals. Do you want to keep it a total surprise or give them a little heads-up? Personally, I like a gentle nudge, so I’m not totally blindsided. That’s why the whole “rock climbing marathon” worked for me—it kept me guessing. But let’s be real, most people do have a hunch that something big is coming. From talking to friends and couples, I’d say about 80% of the time, the person being proposed to has some clue. That doesn’t mean you need to spoil it completely, though. Just keep it subtle, and maybe drop a few hints so they’re not completely caught off guard!
Tip 3: Get Some Help (or Hire Professionals)
Now, while it’s cool to DIY your proposal, trust me, you don’t want to do everything yourself. If you can, get friends or family involved in the setup to take some of the stress off you. And if you really want to take it up a notch, don’t hesitate to hire professionals—whether it’s a photographer, videographer, or even someone to help with the logistics. A photographer can capture that special moment (something I wish I had), and professionals can make sure everything looks top-notch, from the setup to the timing. Don’t skimp on this part if you can help it!
Tip 4: Day-of Tips
Okay, so it’s the big day. Here are a few things to keep in mind to make sure everything goes smoothly: First, when you drop to one knee, don’t bend your leg too much! Trust me, it can look super awkward if your knee is right up against your foot—think of it like a lunge with a 90-degree angle in your legs. Also, don’t show up early—be fashionably late so you know everyone is in place. I had a proposal happen 15 minutes before we were ready once, and it was chaos! If you’re working with vendors, ask them to mark a spot so you know exactly where to go without looking too suspicious. And always be prepared for anything: pack extra jackets or hand warmers if it’s cold, and check the weather to avoid any surprises.
Also, make sure your outfits match the vibe of the proposal! I once had a couple show up where the guy was dressed in a nice shirt and khakis, but the girl was wearing leggings and a graphic tee because he told her to pack casual. It was cute and all, but it looked a little mismatched for the occasion. If you’re traveling, definitely sync up on outfits to make sure you’re both on the same page—unless, of course, you’re trying to keep it a total surprise.
Tip 5: When is the Best Time to Propose?
The timing of your proposal can make or break the moment. While there’s no “perfect” time, I recommend considering a special date or occasion, like an anniversary or during a meaningful trip. The best time is when it feels right for both of you. And if you’re hiring a photographer, timing matters even more! Make sure you’re proposing at the right time of day to get the best lighting. This is generally going to be at or around golden hour but because mountains (thanks Lake Tahoe) can cause things to shadow it’s best to nail down the location and then ask a professional!
Tip 6: Personalize Your Proposal
The best proposals reflect who you are as a couple. Whether it’s doing something related to your favorite hobby or picking a spot that holds meaning for you both, personal touches make it extra special. So think about what will make the moment truly yours. It doesn’t have to be over-the-top, just meaningful to you two. This proposal took place on their favorite beach in all of Lake Tahoe. They don’t live here anymore so it was extra special that this was included.
Tip 7: Be Ready for Emotions
Finally, expect the emotions to hit. Proposals are a huge deal, and it can get pretty overwhelming (in a good way). You might tear up, laugh, or even get nervous, and that’s all part of it. Don’t stress about saying the perfect words—just speak from the heart. If you’re worried about it, write your speech down or rehearse it a bit ahead of time.
At the end of the day, the most important thing is the love you’re about to commit to, not how “perfect” the proposal is. So don’t stress too much about every little detail—just focus on the meaning behind the moment. If you follow these tips, your proposal is bound to be something both of you will treasure forever.
And hey, if you’re planning a proposal and need a photographer or videographer to capture the big moment, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’d love to help make your special day even more unforgettable!
Xoxo,
Alley
January 19, 2025
