Planning a Proposal? Follow This Proposal Checklist for Every Pre-Engagement Step
Wondering what to do before you propose? Planning a proposal is an exciting and somewhat nerve-racking process. Keep reading for a proposal checklist which includes tips for planning the perfect proposal day, including the big moment caught on camera and the party afterward to celebrate with family and friends.
How Long Does It Take to Plan a Proposal?
The timeline for planning a proposal really depends on your specific plans. If you're envisioning an intimate proposal at your favorite local spot, you might need only a few weeks to get everything in order. However, if you're planning something more grandiose, like a destination proposal with all the bells and whistles, you might need a couple of months or even more.
The key here is to give yourself enough time to gather any necessary items, make reservations, and coordinate with anyone else who might be involved (like your proposal photographer). Remember, this is a significant moment for both of you, so take the time you need to make it as special as possible.
Is a Proposal Party the Same as an Engagement Party?
Two popular gatherings that surround a proposal are the proposal party and the engagement party. If they sound similar, that’s because they are. But they’re not exactly the same (unless you want them to be).
A proposal party is typically a surprise gathering where you pop the big question, and an engagement party is a celebration of the happy news after the fact. But hey, who says you can't combine the two?
Imagine this: you propose, your sweetheart says yes, and boom! You head straight to a fantastic party. No need for guests to mark another date on their calendars. Plus, the energy of that moment –– the surprise, the joy, the love –– just fills the room and makes the party all the more memorable.
Another benefit of this is you can have a photographer for both occasions. If you hire a proposal photographer to capture the big moment, you can have them stay longer to capture the big celebration.
How to Plan a Proposal: Complete Proposal Checklist to Not Miss a Thing
If you’re feeling nervous about planning a proposal, you’re not alone. Not only do you have to think of a creative and romantic way to pop the question, but you also have to make sure that everything goes according to plan. To help you out, I’ve put together a complete proposal checklist to ensure that you don’t miss a thing! Here’s what to do before proposing.
1. Set a Budget
Before you start planning, it’s important to establish a budget. This will help you determine what you can and cannot afford. Keep in mind that proposals can be just as memorable without breaking the bank. Whatever your budget is, make it clear from the beginning so you can allocate your funds accordingly. (P.S. Don’t forget to budget for your proposal photographer –– you’ll definitely want to relive the moment again and again!)
2. Do Your Research
The next step is to do your research. Think of the best location to propose and familiarize yourself with the surroundings. (If you’re in the Los Angeles area, check out my list of the top proposal locations in LA!) Don’t forget to check for permits if necessary and make sure that there are no conflicting events happening on the day of your proposal. You may also need to book a reservation for dinner or a hotel room if that’s part of your plan.
3. Choose the Ring
It’s time to pick out (arguably) the most important element of the proposal: the ring! Research some styles you feel your significant other will love and get their ring size. If you’re unsure about the style, consider consulting a jeweler or a close friend/family member who knows your partner well. Nowadays, it’s not uncommon for the person receiving the ring to give some guidelines. This doesn’t have to ruin the surprise, either! If you’ve been talking about marriage, you can ask your partner to share some photos of rings they love to give you an idea of which direction to go. Don’t forget to insure the ring before you propose!
4. Hire a Proposal Photographer
This is a moment you'll want to remember forever, and what better way to do that than with professional photographs? Hiring a proposal photographer can be a wonderful addition to your plans. They'll discreetly capture the surprise, the emotion, and the joy of your proposal in beautiful, high-quality images. They’ll even offer proposal shoot ideas to get a variety of shots after your partner says yes!
Start by researching photographers in your area who specialize in proposals or candid shots. Look at their portfolios to see if their style matches what you have in mind. Once you've chosen a photographer, coordinate with them about the location, timing, and any special moments you want captured. Remember, they're there to help you make this moment as memorable as possible, so don't hesitate to share your ideas and ask for their expert advice.
If you’re proposing in or around Los Angeles, I’d love to chat with you about your vision and share some marriage proposal ideas! Reach out today to learn more about what my proposal photography packages entail and secure the date you want to pop the question!
5. The Final Touches
Little details can make all the difference, whether it’s creating a playlist of your partner’s favorite songs or bringing along some props like candles, flowers, or decorations that are meaningful to your relationship. Whatever you choose, these final touches are not just about making the proposal look beautiful — they're about making it feel deeply personal and heartfelt. It's these little details that will make your partner feel incredibly loved and show just how much time and thought you've put into creating this unforgettable moment. So take some time to think about what would make your proposal that much more special for both of you.
6. Plan the Post-Proposal Engagement Party
While some couples wait two or three months after their engagement to celebrate with friends and family, I’ve found that having the engagement party right after the proposal is such a fun way to keep the excitement going.
To pull this off, you'll need to do some secret planning. Coordinate with a trusted friend or family member who can help organize the event without giving away the surprise. Choose a venue that is meaningful to both of you, perhaps your favorite local restaurant or even your own backyard. Arrange for food, drinks, and maybe some music — remember, this is a celebration!
When it comes to inviting guests, consider sending a Save the Date invitation in advance to ensure people are available. Then, have someone on standby to send out a “We're engaged!" message to all your guests once the proposal has been accepted. This party doesn't have to be a grand affair; the focus is on sharing your happiness with the people you love most. It's a beautiful way to start this exciting new chapter in your life.
Don’t forget to share your plans with your photographer so they can capture the proposal and party!
Looking for a Los Angeles Proposal Photographer to Make the Moment Last Forever?
At Celeste Drake Photography, I’m passionate about capturing the love between couples, especially during one of the most special moments of their lives together: the proposal. With a keen eye for detail and a deep appreciation for the beauty of genuine emotions, I aim to create images that tell your unique love story.
I understand how significant and personal a proposal is. That's why I take the time to get to know you, your story, and your vision for this momentous occasion. As your proposal photographer, I’m here to help you through this experience, from offering marriage proposal ideas to doing a walkthrough at the proposal location to photographing the toasts and hugs at your engagement celebrations.
Through it all, I’ll capture the raw emotion and excitement of your proposal, preserving it in a way that you can relive for years to come. Are you ready to start planning a proposal that’s magical and memorable? Let’s chat!