Everyone thinks they need the perfect spot—think rooftop with twinkling lights or a secluded beach at sunset. I’m here to tell you that your proposal location doesn’t have to be Instagram-level epic. In fact, sometimes the less obvious spots make for the most authentic moments. You could propose at the dog park where you first met or during a spontaneous hike—just be sure you know what kind of "adventurous" your partner is into. (Nobody wants to remember their proposal as the day they rolled an ankle on a mountain trail.)
But please, for the love of all that is holy, avoid restaurants with terrible lighting. You want to see that “yes” face, right? But I have a list of the best spots all over for ideas.



Look, there’s no way around it. Rings are small, but their boxes are big. If you’re the type who thinks they can just stuff the ring in their pocket and no one will notice... I’ve got news for you. Your partner will immediately think you're shoplifting a large object.
Invest in a slim ring box. There are loads of discreet ones out there now (thank you, Internet!). Plus, you won’t look like you're trying to smuggle snacks into a movie theater. Here’s a link to some of my favourite discrete ring boxes _________________



This is where things get tricky. You’ve got to create a decoy plan that feels just "meh" enough that your partner won’t suspect anything, but not so bad that they’re like, “Why are we doing this?”
For example, if you never do early morning hikes, don’t suddenly suggest one. They'll smell a proposal from a mile away—or worse, they’ll refuse to go because who wakes up at 6 a.m. for fun?! Instead, try something low-key but believable: “Hey, let’s grab coffee and walk by the river.” Casual, innocent, and bonus points if the riverbank happens to have a picturesque backdrop. (Yes, you get to plan that part.) If your partner is the type of person who would love this moment captured dressed up suggest a dinner somewhere then on route to the restaurant tada… hello me jumping out of a bush.



If you’re hiring a photographer (hello I’m over here), make sure they’re ready to go full ninja mode. I’m talking stealth moves you’d see in a spy movie. The goal is for your partner to have no clue they're being photographed until the moment you’re down on one knee.
And if you really want to throw them off the scent, get the photographer to pretend they’re a random tourist offering to take your picture. That way, when the big moment comes, they’re right there, lens ready. In winter I normally wear a a specific beanie that you’ll know it’s me etc…



You can plan every detail down to the millisecond, but something will go awry. Maybe a random dog crashes your romantic beach setup (actually, that could be cute). Maybe your partner trips and falls before you even get to the spot (it happens!). Whatever it is, just roll with it. These are the moments that make your proposal story unforgettable. And let's be real—the best photos are the ones where you’re laughing together because life is unpredictable.



You did it! Now what? Don’t just walk off like nothing happened—celebrate! Have a plan for a little post-proposal magic. Whether it’s a surprise gathering with family and friends, a reservation at their favorite restaurant, or a chilled bottle of champagne waiting nearby, give yourselves a chance to savor the moment before posting that obligatory ring shot to Instagram.
Bonus Tip: Make Sure They’re Dressed for It I can’t stress this enough—if you’re planning a proposal that involves photos, make sure your partner feels good in what they’re wearing. Nobody wants to look back at their engagement pictures and think, “I would’ve worn literally anything else if I knew this was happening.”

But also... don’t go overboard with suggestions. The whole point of a surprise is that it’s, you know, a surprise. Subtlety is key. Maybe mention a nice dinner or a fun day out so they dress a little nicer than usual. And if all else fails, just tell them, “Hey, let’s look cute today.” Trust me, they’ll appreciate it.

There you go—your roadmap to pulling off a proposal they’ll never forget (in the best way possible). Remember, it’s not about perfection, it’s about creating a moment that’s yours. Now get out there and pop that question like a pro! (And if you need a sneaky photographer, you know where to find me!) Below are some galleries of cute proposals and some FAQ to help you out.

Step 1: The “Perfect” Location... or Not?

Step 2: Ring Strategy—Avoid Bulge Anxiety

Step 3: The Fake Plans—A Delicate Balance

Step 4: Photographer Ninja Mode

Step 6: Celebrate Immediately

Step 5: Prepare for the Unexpected (Trust Me)