Top 15 Tips And Advice To Make Your Proposal Perfect


Portugal | Photo by PEDIPortugal Weddings

Proposing is very important! This is one of those moments that can change your life. Whether you want to do something big and exciting or small and intimate, some easy tips can help make it really special.

In this blog post, I will share some simple and easy tips to help you make your proposal perfect that will sweep your partner off their feet. You can also read here about some mistakes that could come along with some of these tips.

Have A Plan

One of the best ways to make sure your proposal goes perfectly is to have a strong plan. Think about all the small things that can make your proposal extra special. Planning can keep you organised, confident, and prepared for the big moment, ensuring everything goes well. Whether it’s a surprise or something you’ve talked about, having a plan shows your partner how much you care. This being said, take the time to plan ahead and make it perfect. You can check here for a detailed plan you should follow.

Talk About It

Before you start planning how you’ll propose, it’s very important to talk about getting married to your partner. You don’t have to spoil the surprise, but having a chat about your future together makes sure you both want the same thing. Talk about what you think about marriage, what you want to do in the future, and your dreams. This way, you’ll know if you’re both ready for this big step. It also helps you understand what kind of proposal your partner would love. Communication is really important to make your proposal perfect and special for both of you.

Portugal | Photo by PEDIPortugal Weddings

Set Money Aside For The Proposal

It is very exciting planning the perfect proposal, but it is also important to think about how much it will cost you. You don’t need lots of money to make it special, but having a budget helps you have a great proposal without worrying. Start by deciding how much you can spend. Think about what you want to include, like a beautiful ring, a special location, or maybe a photographer. Saving a little bit each month can make it easier to afford everything you need. When you have a budget defined you can make better planning ensuring everything goes well on the big moment.

Make It Personal

You can show your partner how much they mean to you if you include personal details in your proposal. Think about what makes your relationship special. Maybe it’s a favourite place you’ve been together, a shared hobby, or jokes or phrases that only the two of you understand. Including these personal touches in your proposal can make it truly unforgettable. Also, it will show that you really thought about this moment, making it not just perfect, but uniquely yours.

Portugal | Photo by PEDIPortugal Weddings

Visit Your Proposal Location In Advance

One of the best ways to make sure your plan will be perfect is to check out the place in advance! It gives you a chance to see if it’s as good as you imagined and where you’ll pop the question to make it even more romantic. Look around for good places to take pictures, nice views, how many people might be there, and if there could be any problems. You can check my top list here for the best places and the ones you should avoid. When you do that, you are not only increasing your confidence but also preparing yourself for what to expect.

Practice What To Say 

When it comes to proposing, the words you choose are just as important as the ring. Practising what to say when giving an engagement ring helps you feel more confident and ensures your words come out smoothly. 

Start by writing down your thoughts and feelings. Think about why you love your partner, the special memories you’ve shared, and why you want to spend your life together. Putting it on paper helps you organise your thoughts. You don’t need a long speech. A few words from your heart can be stronger than a long speech. Just say what you really feel.

Saying your words out loud helps you get comfortable with them. You can try talking in front of a mirror or record yourself speaking. You don’t need to memorise every word, but having a good idea of what you want to say will make it easier to express your feelings naturally.

Speak from the heart and be true to yourself. Don’t worry about sounding perfect. Your partner will appreciate your sincerity. Proposals can be emotional, and that’s okay! If you get choked up or nervous, take a deep breath and continue. Your emotions show how much this moment means to you. Find more details on how to make an unforgettable proposal speech here.

Portugal | Photo by PEDIPortugal Weddings

Do You Say The Full Name When Proposing?

This is one of the big questions that I often see people have. The answer depends on your personal style. Saying your partner’s full name can give the proposal a fancy touch. It shows that you are serious and truly mean every word. You also can create a dramatic moment. It’s like in the movies, when you hear the full name, you know something big is happening!

But, if the full name doesn’t feel right, it’s perfectly fine to use the name you call them every day. Think about what your partner would like best.

What Knee Should You Propose On? 

Traditionally, many people propose on their left knee. However, it doesn’t really matter what knee you propose on. You can choose whichever knee feels right for you. For many, it feels more natural to kneel on the left knee because they are right-handed, so kneeling on the left knee leaves the right hand free to present the ring. Or they might even decide to propose without kneeling at all.

Don’t forget to think about how long you stay on your knee to make it perfect. Aim for around 10-20 seconds. It’s long enough to show you’re serious, but not so long that it gets uncomfortable. Stay on your knee long enough to say your words, ask the big question and show the ring. After your partner has said yes (fingers crossed!), it’s perfectly fine to stand up. 

Do You Put The Ring On While Kneeling?

Traditionally, the answer is yes! Kneeling symbolises respect and honour for your partner. It shows you’re serious and committed to spending your lives together. 

When you kneel, you can open the ring box and show the ring to your partner. If they say yes, you can gently take the ring out of the box and slide it onto their finger while still kneeling. Typically the ring goes on the ring finger, the fourth finger on the left hand. This finger is said to have a direct connection to the heart through a vein.

It’s a beautiful gesture that can make your proposal even more romantic. However, if you feel more comfortable standing up to put the ring on, that’s perfectly fine too.

Portugal | Photo by PEDIPortugal Weddings

But Why Do You Get On One Knee To Propose? 

Kneeling on one knee to propose is a tradition that goes way back to medieval times. It was very common for knights to get down on one knee in front of their lords to show respect and loyalty. Gradually, this act became linked with romance and chivalry. 

Kneeling also makes the proposal feel special and very important. It turns a regular moment into something extraordinary. By kneeling, you show you are sincere and truly mean what you are saying. It makes the proposal feel like a fairytale, which is something lots of people dream about. 

Can You Propose Without Kneeling? 

Definitely yes, you can propose without getting down on one knee! The classic image of someone on one knee might be traditional, but it’s not the only way to ask the big question and can be just as romantic. It’s your proposal, so it should reflect your unique relationship and style.

Portugal | Photo by PEDIPortugal Weddings

What Alternatives Do You Have To Kneeling? 

If kneeling isn’t your style or doesn’t fit the moment, there are many other romantic ways to pop the question.

While sitting down: Propose while you’re both sitting together in a cosy setting. It could be during a picnic, over a romantic dinner, on a park bench, at the beach watching the sunset, on a boat ride, or even at home on the couch. 

During a Special Activity: When you’re having fun together, like hiking, dancing, cooking, or stargazing, that’s a great time to ask your partner to marry you. During a trip to a special destination while exploring is also great. If you both love sports, you could ask them while you’re doing your favourite sport.

With a Surprise Element: Plan a surprise that leads up to your proposal. Maybe a scavenger hunt or a special event that ends with you asking the big question. Get your best friends and family together to plan a surprise party.

In a Creative Way: Think outside the box! You can write your proposal on the sand, use lights to spell it out, hide the ring in a book or puzzle, get it printed on a banner, or make a special song or poem. If you have a pet, you can also include them!

Portugal | Photo by PEDIPortugal Weddings

Hide The Engagement Ring

Hiding the engagement ring is an important part of making your proposal special and surprising. You can find a safe place to hide the ring where your partner won’t accidentally discover it. A locked box, a friend’s house you can trust, or a hidden compartment in your bag are good options.

When you hide the ring, keep it where you can still find it easily when you need it, but make sure it’s not visible before the big moment. You don’t want to be frantically searching for it when you’re ready to propose! If you have to carry the ring with you, disguise it in a small box or pouch that doesn’t look like a ring box. Avoid obvious jewellery boxes that might give away the surprise.

Always consider having a backup plan just in case your initial hiding spot gets compromised. Try not to get too anxious when you hide the ring, just relax and try to think straight.

Don’t Skip The Photographer And Videographer

When you are planning your perfect proposal, don’t forget to hire a photographer and videographer. Capturing the moment you pop the question is very important. Hiring a photographer and videographer might seem like an extra expense, but it’s worth it. These professionals can discreetly capture every emotion and reaction of both of you. Besides, photos and videos let you relive that special time again and again. 

A professional photographer can catch the exact moment of surprise and joy on your partner’s face. These pictures will be cherished forever and can be shared with friends and family. A videographer can record the whole event, from your heartfelt speech to your partner’s excited reaction. Watching the video later will bring back all those wonderful feelings. 

You might think that asking a friend to take pictures or videos is enough. But a professional will know how to get the best angles and lighting. And you will have high-quality memories. They have experience in making everything look perfect. Also, your friends can enjoy the moment with you instead of worrying about the camera. 

Portugal | Photo by PEDIPortugal Weddings

There Are No Strict Rules For Proposing 

When it comes to proposing, there are no strict rules to follow. Every relationship is unique, and your proposal should reflect that. Don’t feel pressured to do what everyone else does or what you think is expected. It doesn’t have to be expensive or elaborate. Sometimes, the simplest ideas are the most memorable. 

To sum up, the best part about your proposal is all the love and care you put into it. Pick a special place, make a beautiful speech, and think about what your partner likes. Just be you and focus on the moment. If you follow these tips, you’ll make that perfect proposal you both will always remember and love. You’ve totally got this!

I am so grateful that you came on this journey with me. If you liked what you read and are interested in more of my work, please check my portfolio here. I want to know what you think. Thank you very much for your valuable support!

Pedro Cruz

Wedding photographer and videographer from Lisbon, Portugal. Here is Pedro Cruz's short bio.

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