Planning a surprise proposal doesn’t have to be overwhelming. You may already be nervous or calm as a cucumber, either way if you follow these pointers your “Will you marry me?” moment will be beautiful and memorable.
Book a photographer
Step one before anything else is to book a local photographer. Photographers are an invaluable resource when planning a surprise proposal! We can help with location ideas, timeline details, and even help with communication and logistics. I’ve picked up flowers, framed photos, called locations, set tables, you name it in order to make this moment as special and memorable as possible for my clients. Photographers thrive on surprises, and there is nothing we like more than helping make your surprise proposal a reality!
Pick the perfect location
Winery or Vineyard – A Texas Hill Country Classic.
Steal away for a quick walk through the vines, see the grapes, and ask the burning question. Proposing among the vines is both romantic and private. Not to mention the joys of celebrating with a bottle of wine.
Two things to note when planning a winery proposal:
- Call ahead, ask if they allow you to photograph the moment, and if they have a fee or package. Some wineries charge a small fee if a professional photographer is taking photos of the event. Some vineyards can have proposal packages that include everything from glasses, a bottle of wine, to flowers and food. Each winery is different so pick a couple of your favorites, and email them to ask them about their policies. This is another area where a local photographer can be helpful in finding out the details.
- If you are proposing during the fall…. pick a winery that also has beautiful grounds or views. At that time of year or at least by mid October the once green vines are now brown, and often cut back, which isn’t as beautiful for photos.
State/Local Park – literally climb a mountain
This is a perfect option for the outdoorsy and adventurous couple. However, you will have to find a photographer that loves the outdoors, and hiking as much as you do!
If you are planning a big hike before proposing, think about packing an extra outfit for both of you. This is a life saver, so that after you ask “The Question” you can both change into something more comfortable or formal for beautiful portraits. Fun fact, James also packed Molly’s cosmetic bag in case she wanted to touch up her makeup.
Family Ranch or Property – sentimental and personal
Another popular and beautiful option for a proposal is choosing a location with sentimental value. Do you enjoy hot summers at the family lake house? Is hunting at the family ranch your favorite fall activity together? Sentimental locations add that extra level of emotion to an already emotion packed event!
Pop the Question!
This is the moment. Everything is set and ready. Take a deep breath and ask!
Take some beautiful portraits to celebrate.
After they say “YES!” and the tears of joy have stopped now is the time to take your first photos as an engaged couple! Enjoy each other, laugh about the day, and show off that ring!
Plan a Surprise Proposal Party
What better way to celebrate your engagement than with a surprise party! There are so many fun ways to do this. Hide family and friends at a separate location (airbnb, event space, etc), dinner reservations at a favorite restaurant, or have them come around the corner after hiding at the proposal location.
This is another great opportunity for photos should you choose to have your photographer also attend the party.
Whatever you choose to do, get someone in on the planning to help you with organizing and have fun! Plus, if someone else is the point of contact for the party that means less chance of your partner accidentally seeing a text or overhearing a phone conversation which would put a damper on your expert level surprise proposal.
If you are planning a surprise proposal in the Texas Hill Country I would love to be your photographer!
