So you’re thinking about taking your relationship to the next level and proposing?! Congratulations!! This is such an exciting time! Over the past few years, I’ve been able to witness several proposals! After some thinking, I’ve compiled a list of 7 things to think about when getting ready to take the next step! I hope one, if not all, help you in finalizing your plans.

1. Make it your own. I think this really should be one of the first keys in planning your proposal. We exist in such a time that everything is documented on social media and people going way over the top. When scrolling through Pinterest or Instagram, it’s easy to become inundated with grandiose gestures that really do not reflect who you are as a couple. That being said, make this time about you and your loved one. At the end of the day, I think more than things like hot air balloon rides or fireworks, it’s the words that matter. What are the words you’re saying to your significant other before asking the question? These are the words that will be solidified in memory and what becomes most important long term. Don’t try to be trendy or live up to other’s expectations. Find what speaks volumes about your personal relationship. Sure, the fancy things can be fun, but don’t be afraid to keep it simple!

2. Limit who you tell. With this big of a step, it can be so hard to keep the excitement to yourself! You want nothing more than to share with family and friends. However, the more people you tell, there’s more of a chance of a slip-up. That being said, consider telling the least amount of people as possible, especially those who you know are not good at secret-keeping…even if it is your mom!

3. Ask permission if necessary. I know this isn’t a thing for every couple, however, if at some point in your relationship it’s been discussed, then make sure you do it. It’s important for some people to have permission from their fathers, especially in the South, so make time to make that happen [sneakily, of course!].

4. Document! I realize that sometimes proposals are done on the fly. You’re walking around with the ring for weeks, if not months, on end and it’s burning a hole in your pocket. However, if you know it’s coming, go ahead and work on setting an official date and lining up a photographer. This is definitely one moment that you’ll never be able to recreate. You’re nervous, and by the time it’s all said and done, it literally is over in a matter of minutes. Why not have someone there to capture the whole thing for you both to relive over and over?

5. If you’re stuck, ask for help! There may come a time when you draw a blank on exactly what to do. This is where best friends or photographers swoop in to help. Chances are your soon-to-be fiancé has described to their friends what they have envisioned for this moment. Or maybe your photographer can help guide you into creating a moment that would be special for just the two of you!

6. Lean into the moment. This time is one hundred percent about you two! It’s okay and normal to be nervous! Heck, even I get butterflies during proposals! That being said, do not let that feeling detract from the excitement of what is going on. Take the time to lean into this moment and not rush through it. If you’ve hired a photographer, don’t worry about them – they want you to step into this time and celebrate each other!! Do not think you have to move out of this moment in any given amount of time. This time is about and for you, nobody else. Whenever you’re ready to move on, make that decision for yourselves alone. Don’t hold back your feelings or emotions on account on someone else.

7. A couple of extra random thoughts. If there’s someplace special that you two go, or activities that you do together that are important…consider making those things a part of this decision. If you’re avid hikers or into being outdoorsy, then don’t try to force getting super dressed up and being someone who you’re not. It’s okay if your proposal looks different from others. It should, because there’s no other relationship just like yours! Also, if you’re considering having a photographer there, whether as a surprise proposal or a photo session that turns proposal, consider doing it sometime during daylight hours where there’s enough light to document!

I hope you found this helpful in your upcoming proposal!! Good luck and I can’t wait to hear all about it! Feel free to drop your proposal story in the comments below!!

xoxo,

Holly

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

•