WEDDING BLOG

Image by Lauren Casino.

Deciding to ask the love of your life to marry you is the easy part. Planning an epic surprise proposal worthy of your love? A little more challenging. From hiring a photographer to deciding on a location, there are so many moving parts to consider. 

If you’ve been searching the internet for tips on how to pull off the ultimate surprise proposal, you’re in luck, because we’ve rounded up five ways to pull off an unexpected proposal that your significant other won’t see coming. 

Tips For Planning A Surprise Proposal 

Before kick-starting your proposal planning, here are some Junebug-approved tips you should keep in mind. 

• Determine if you want a public or private proposal 
• Always have a backup plan 
• Be selective of who you share the plans with before the proposal—this is key to keeping it a secret 
• Do a practice walk-through with your photographer ahead of time to ensure everyone is on the same page 
• Bring a touch-up kit for your significant other to freshen up before your after-proposal-portraits 

1. Go Ring Shopping

Proposing with an engagement ring isn’t necessary and definitely isn’t for everyone. But if you want to incorporate this traditional element into your proposal, you’ll want to start by hunting down the perfect ring. Maybe you’re using a meaningful family heirloom. Maybe your significant other has been hinting at their dream ring, so you know exactly what to scoop up—ideal for a surprise proposal. 

If you have no idea what style to get, don’t fret. Going ring shopping with your significant other won’t ruin your chances of a surprise proposal. In fact, doing so gives you a good sense of what they like and their sizing.

Image by Riss + Steven Photography.

2. Hire A Trusted Photographer 

Before sorting out any concrete details, hire a trusted photographer. These industry pros know what they’re talking about and are a must-have tool for pulling off a smooth surprise proposal. They’ll be a helpful resource for all moving parts–especially when it comes to picking out a location. 

Plus, hiring a professional photographer will help put your mind at ease. You don’t have to worry about sorting logistics, capturing the special moment, and proposing. All you have to worry about is location and popping the question. Your photographer will take care of the rest.  

3. Secure A Location And Backup Plan 

Every detail of your proposal should be tailored to your love story. This includes your location. Brainstorm location ideas that are sentimental and meaningful to you and your significant other. Was your first date at the beach? Pop the question where your sandy love story kicked off. Do you spend every weekend walking your dog at the local park? That’s the perfect spot for a surprise proposal. 

Spending time really thinking about your engagement spot will make your proposal that much more special. If you’re stumped, talk to your photographer for inspiration. They know exactly where you should be to get the perfect shot. 

Junebug Tip:

Always have a backup plan. Sure, you’re hoping that your proposal runs smoothly, but make sure your plans are flexible enough to continue even if you hit a little speed bump. 

Image by The Ferros.

4. Pick The Day And Time 

You have your photographer and your location. Now it’s time to work out the day and time. This may just be the most difficult detail to sort out. You have to consider your photographer’s availability, transportation to your location, and your significant other’s schedule. To say there’s a lot to think about would be an understatement. This is a good place to start recruiting the help of family and friends—but only the ones that can keep a secret, of course. 

5. Get Creative With Your Proposal 

Now that the behind-the-scenes logistics are all taken care of, it’s time to get to the fun part. You finally get to tap into your creativity and plan all the little details that’ll make your proposal one for the books. You could plan a picnic,  scavenger hunt, or party with all of your favorite people—the possibilities are endless. 

If you’re in need of more unique ideas to help kickstart your planning, check out these proposal ideas that are as sweet as they are creative. 

You’ve officially pulled off the ultimate surprise proposal, congrats! Now it’s time to celebrate with an epic engagement party. If you’re ready for champagne and a whole lot of congratulating, here’s everything you need to know about pulling off an engagement party worthy of celebrating your love.

Image by Nikk Nguyen Photo.