Deciding you want to get married is a big decision (the under statement of a century)! You’d think once you’ve come to the conclusion that you have met the person you are ready to spend your life with, the big decision would be over, BUT… shocker, it’s not! Now you have to decide how you are going to ask. I’m sure that’s a huge question mark for some guys so we are here to help!

One of the things that we love asking our clients during our initial meeting is the story of the proposal from His and Her perspective! We want to know how he came up with the idea, was he nervous, was she expecting anything, did anything go wrong? All the questions! We’ve heard some really fun stories!

We decide to compile all of the tips that we’ve heard into a post that gives you some ideas to think about when planning how you are going to ask. Ladies, if you are wanting to send some hints your boyfriends way, look up this post on his phone and leave it there!

Let’s get into it…

#1 Location

Is there a location that is special to you two? Where did you first meet? Where did you have your first date, share your first kiss? We found it best to choose a place that really means something to you both.

Do you want the location to be public or private? I’d say if you’ve known your girlfriend for a while, you know if she’s more of an outgoing, center of attention type of gal or if she’s more reserved and hates having all eyes on her. Even though YOU may be the opposite, it’s important that you take her personality into consideration when you decide if you want to propose on a crowded bridge downtown or privately in your home.

#2 Do you want it to be photographed?

We know there’s so much pressure to have photos of everything to post on social media these days (we are photographers, of course), but we don’t think it’s wrong to have a very private proposal where literally it is only the two of you. Conversely, if you know your girlfriend would kill you if she didn’t have a picture of her reaction, then definitely spring for the photographer! Where that is her best friend hiding the bushes with her iPhone or if you hire the wedding photographer she’s been stalking on Instagram for months.

#3 Time of Day

This is important if you’ve chosen a busy location or if you do decide to hire a professional photographer. The hour before sunset is the best time to take photos. If that is important to you, definitely wait for sunset! If you do hire a professional photographer he/she will help guide you on this.

#4 Keep Her Distracted

Sometimes if there’s a big plan in the works, you need to keep her distracted while your friends and family help you with the big reveal. Have her best friend or sister take her to get her nails done! She will be so impressed that you thought of that detail! Nobody wants naked nails while they show off their brand new engagement ring!

#5 Get a Ring Box

This is really just a big bonus, but if you really want to take it over the top, get a personalized ring box! You can find beautiful boxes on Etsy or The Mrs. Box.

#6 Have a Plan for After

Whether it’s a bottle of champagne to pop open together, dinner at your favorite restaurant, or a big party with friends and family, make sure you do something afterward in celebration!!

#7 Be glad it’s over!!

Although I don’t know all of the nervous thoughts that go through a guy’s head during this whole process, I did experience a whole range of emotions as I helped my brother-in-law propose to my sister! Once it’s all over, you will be able to breathe a sigh of relief and just be happy and excited for your future!

Happy planning!!

-Chelsea