Surprise Proposals: My Go-To Tips
Planning a surprise proposal?
You’re in exactly the right place!
If you’re getting ready to pop the question, your mind is probably racing with a million details...How do I keep it a secret? Where’s the perfect spot? What do I need to bring? Should I hire a photographer? (That one’s an easy YES!)
Don’t worry, I’m here to help make it seamless, memorable, and full of joy from start to finish.
Make a plan
One of the very first things I love to do with my clients is map out a proposal plan that feels natural, thoughtful, and true to you. Every single proposal is a little different, which is what makes them so special! We’ll take into account the location, your comfort level, and whether you’re including friends or family in the moment.
To get you started, here are a few of my favorite ideas I often recommend first…
Method 1
The “Planned Photoshoot” Method
This is one of the smoothest and most relaxed options. We plan a “just because” or couples photoshoot ahead of time, so your partner already expects me to be there. During the session, I’ll guide you both through a few natural prompts and then we’ll use a pre-planned cue that signals it’s the moment. It feels effortless, your partner is completely at ease, and I’m perfectly positioned to capture every second as it unfolds.
method 2
The “Can You Take Our Photo?” Method
This one is simple, classic, and so fun. You’ll approach me (as if I’m just a stranger nearby!) and ask if I can take a photo of you together. I’ll start snapping a few shots like normal, and then instead of handing the camera back, I’ll keep shooting as you drop to one knee. It’s such a sweet, genuine surprise and your partner never sees it coming.
method 3
The “Hide & Sneak” Method
For a more candid, documentary-style moment, this is the way to go. I’ll be hidden nearby, blending into the surroundings while you lead your partner to the proposal spot. Just keep in mind, if the location is wide open with little cover, it can be a bit trickier for me to stay out of sight. In those cases, we may need to get a little creative with positioning or timing to keep the surprise intact! This method is best for you to just take your time and propose when it feels right. I quietly capture everything from a distance, preserving the moment exactly as it naturally unfolds.
From the very beginning, I love helping you keep this whole experience fun and under wraps! We’ll start by choosing the best way to communicate so everything stays discreet. I’ll never randomly call or text and risk giving anything away. Once we’ve locked in your plan and location, I’ll go “radio silent” until we’re close to the big moment… all part of keeping the surprise perfectly intact!
And for you, the one getting ready to propose I highly recommend letting at least one trusted person in on the secret! Not only does it make it more fun to share the excitement, but it also gives you the chance to plan something extra special afterward like a surprise dinner or celebration with your favorite people. It’s the perfect way to keep the joy going long after the “YES!”
At the end of the day, this is such a joyful and unforgettable experience and my goal is to make it feel easy, exciting, and completely stress-free for you. From choosing the right plan and location to keeping everything a secret, every detail is thoughtfully set up so you can just focus on the moment itself and the person you love.
There are a few different ways we can approach it, and together we’ll find the one that fits your story best. However it unfolds, it always leads to that incredible, heart-racing moment you’ll never forget.
You’ve got this! And I’m so excited to be there capturing every second of it for you.
