It’s engagement season! Aside from finding your perfect someone, there are several things to consider before you pop the question. One of the cutest pre-COVID ideas we have seen incorporated a street caricaturist with a sketched picture of the couple. There were word bubbles that said, “Will you marry me?” It wasn’t the most visually elaborate but it had a big impact and was oh, so memorable.
Thinking of going really big? Whether it’s a grand gesture such as flying in an internationally acclaimed violist for a private performance or orchestrating an epic proposal overlooking the Cliffs of Moher in Ireland, the sky is the limit for ways to pop the question. But remember, it doesn’t have to be over-the-top (or expensive) to be sentimental. Your idyllic landscape for a proposal spot could be as simple as the restaurant where you had your first date!
At the end of the day, whether you opt for an intimate lakefront proposal or invest in a destination trip to pop the question, finding what is meaningful to you as a couple—and carefully curating the logistics—is the true key to getting great proposal photos. Here are seven tips to planning your proposal.
1. Ask for a “blessing” and record the occasion (even if it’s via Zoom). Of course, this is completely based on your comfort level and relationship with your significant other’s family. But asking a parent (or other parental figure) for their son or daughter’s hand in marriage is a beautiful moment that could be a memorable keepsake for you and your family.
2. Budget for and hire a photographer to document the occasion—and plan to spend at least another 15-30 minutes taking photos after the proposal goes down.
3. If your budget allows, I recommend hiring an experienced proposal planner. The more elaborate the proposal, the more elements and logistics that need to be curated. They can assist with creating a visual focal point and sourcing design vendors (such as floral design, signage, etc.) and in making sure the photographer knows where to be and when so that you aren’t busy texting—and potentially blowing your cover.
4. Select a sentimental or idyllic location, keeping your future fiancé in mind. Is there a first date spot or a tradition that you share? It really is the thought that counts.
5. Treat him or her to a manicure. Your partner will want to show off their new bling in photos—professional pics and IG snaps—so eliminate the worry for them and make sure their hands and nails look polished.
6. Plan an “after” celebration—a dinner with friends and/or family so there’s a reason for him or her to dress up. If you are so inclined, you can plan a surprise engagement party or keep it simple and celebrate with just the two of you. Either way, you will want to have celebratory plans for later that evening.
7. Beyond the aesthetics of the location, consider the logistics and optics of your proposal backdrop. For example, do you want a specific cityscape angle in the background? Discuss that with the photographer and have a plan on how to orchestrate the shoot. The main thing is coordinating the moment so that the photographer can document the actual proposal reactions. The rest of the photos can be staged once he or she says yes.
To schedule a consultation, feel free to email us at info@photocarasco.com for more information!
