Maybe it’s been a few months, maybe it’s been a few years. Maybe you’ve already bought the perfect engagement ring. However long you’ve been together, knowing that you’ve found the person that you want to marry is a cause for excitement. However, there’s another step to go – the proposal, and (hopefully) acceptance.
A proposal should be a declaration of love and commitment to your partner. After all, you are asking them to spend the rest of their life with you, so you want to show them how much they mean to you. But how do you choose the perfect location to pop the question? We outline a few suggestions below to give you inspiration.
Your first date spot
Whether it’s a restaurant, mini golf, or bowling, this option is full of nostalgia and meaning for you as a couple. An activity date setting also means a relaxed, fun vibe, which is perfect for conquering any pre-proposal nerves.
It’s easy to bring up your relationship in conversation as well, as you can talk about your first date. Maybe you can drop hints into conversation, or incorporate the proposal into the activity – think getting the ring delivered with the food, or writing ‘will you marry me?’ on your scorecard.
If you think your partner would like to celebrate with friends and family afterwards, this can be a good option, provided the date spot is local to them. Head to the bar for a celebratory drink and get them to meet you there as a surprise for your new fiancée.
A place you’ve always wanted to go
If budget isn’t an issue, or you’ve been saving up for a big trip, a holiday can be a perfect place to propose. Skip traditionally romantic destinations like Paris and Rome, unless they’re already on your travel list, and head for quirky holiday destinations like Iceland or Barcelona.
For the ultimate luxurious experience, whisk your partner away on a romantic trip to a place they’ve always dreamed of, as a surprise – but be aware, this is likely to give them an idea of what you’re planning, especially if you’ve discussed marriage before. If you want the proposal to be a complete surprise, this probably isn’t the right option for you.
At home
A public proposal can be quite daunting, even for a confident person, and it puts your partner on the spot. Whilst some people would love a big moment, it can take the pressure off if you’re simply at home, and celebrate with a party or dinner afterwards.
Make sure you keep it romantic, though – this is a moment that you’ll remember forever, and it’s important to keep it special, even if you are in a familiar setting. Perhaps order a fancy meal kit and dress up in smart clothes, or even hire a private chef, if budget allows.
If you need time to decorate, enlist the help of your partner’s friends to take them out whilst you get everything ready. Friends are almost always happy to help with such requests. You may have already asked them to help with ring sizing, as many jewellers recommend discreetly asking friends and family, or borrowing an existing ring to measure.
To sum up
Wherever you choose to propose, it’s important to make sure it is a special moment for you and your partner. Whilst spontaneous proposals do happen, it can be best to make sure you’re well prepared with a plan, an engagement ring and a speech.
Remember, this moment is about you as a couple, so choosing somewhere meaningful to you is a beautiful way of showing your partner how much you care about them.