How to Plan a Surprise Proposal
Planning a surprise proposal is exciting, but if you've been losing hours out of your day wondering how to remember everything you want to say, you're not alone. I'm Leon, an accredited celebrant and photographer, and through Where Two Bloom I help people plan guided proposals that feel calm, personal and true to their relationship. Here's my step-by-step guide to planning a surprise proposal, from choosing the moment to keeping it all a secret.
Step 1: Think about who they are
Before you think about locations or rings, think about the person you're asking. Would they love a big, public gesture, or would they much rather it was just the two of you somewhere quiet? Are they a sunrise-on-a-mountain person or a cosy-walk-on-the-beach person? The best proposals feel natural to the relationship, so let that guide every other decision.
Step 2: Choose the place and the time
Pick somewhere that means something to you both, or somewhere so beautiful it'll become meaningful from that day on. It might be where you had your first date, a favourite walk or a view you always come back to. If you need some inspiration, North Wales has no shortage of romantic spots, from the Great Orme to Llanddwyn Island on Anglesey.
Think about the time of day, too. Golden hour, just before sunset, gives the softest light for photographs, and quieter times mean fewer people around when you get down on one knee.
Step 3: Sort the ring
Photo: Cvmontuy, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Finding the right ring size without giving the game away is one of the trickiest parts of a surprise proposal. A few ideas that help:
Borrow a ring they already wear on that finger and take it to a jeweller to be measured.
Ask a trusted friend or family member who might know their size (and can keep a secret).
If you're unsure, many jewellers can resize a ring afterwards, so check before you buy.
On the day, keep the ring somewhere secure and easy to reach. A ring box in a zipped pocket is far less stressful than a loose ring in your jeans!
Step 4: Work out what you want to say
This is where so many proposals wobble. You know exactly how you feel, but in the moment nerves, pressure and brain fog can get in the way. That's why I created the guided proposal.
Here's how it works. You reach out and talk to me about your proposal ideas and your love story. I craft a love letter based on our conversations, using your feelings, memories and words. You can review it and change the wording until it feels completely like you. Then, on the day, I read your love letter aloud to your loved one just before you propose. No trip-ups and no brain fog, just your words landing exactly how you want them to.
Even if you're planning it all yourself, writing your thoughts down beforehand is one of the best things you can do. Note the moments that made you fall in love, what you admire about them and what you're looking forward to together.
Step 5: Plan how the moment will be captured
You'll want to remember this moment forever, so think about photography early. With a guided proposal, I show up on the morning, afternoon or evening of your proposal, introduce myself to your partner and let them know we've secretly been working together on your love letter.
I deliberately don't photograph the love letter being read, so that moment stays locked away and can only be accessed through your memory. Once the letter is read, my camera comes up to capture the "down on one knee" moment, the "yes!" and every emotional reaction that follows. Then I hand you Polaroids that develop in your hands, and they're tucked into your love letter for you to take home as a keepsake.
When Nabeel proposed to Massuma, I was there with my camera, and as they put it, "The pictures were perfect and captured at the exact right moments." You can see Nabeel and Massuma's proposal.
Step 6: Keep it a secret
A surprise only works if it stays a surprise. Keep the circle of people who know as small as possible, and think about a simple, believable reason to be at your chosen place at that time. A walk, a picnic or a day trip all work well.
Don't worry about anything slipping out from my side, either. There won't be any posts about your plans, as everything is kept secret until after you've asked.
Step 7: Have a plan B
Outdoor proposals depend on the weather, especially here in North Wales. Have a sheltered alternative close by, keep an eye on the forecast in the days before and be ready to shift your timing by an hour or two. If you're proposing on a beach, check the tide times too.
Step 8: Plan what happens next
Once the question has been asked and answered, enjoy it! You might have a celebration meal booked, family waiting to congratulate you or simply a quiet evening together.
With a guided proposal, your story doesn't end there. Your proposal becomes the first chapter of your Love Story Album, and you receive one year's complimentary membership to the Love Story Registry, with a handcrafted commemorative letter, imagery and seasonal flowers delivered on your anniversary. When the time comes to tie the knot, you'll also receive 10% off a luxury, personalised elopement with Elope with Leon.
Ready to plan yours?
A Guided Proposal Ceremony with Where Two Bloom is £695 and includes your personalised love letter, photography of your proposal and Polaroid keepsakes. You can see everything that's included on my services page, or read more about how a guided proposal works.
You don't have to do this alone any more. Get in touch through my contact form, email me at hello@leonbagnallexperiences.co.uk or drop me a message on Instagram, and tell me about your proposal ideas. I can't wait to hear your story.