While the magic of a Christmas or New Year engagement often hinges on the intimacy of an indoor, (preferably fairy light or candle-lit) setting, spring and summer proposals tend to inspire a more outdoorsy approach.
Spending more time outdoors is beneficial for so many reasons. Outdoor settings also make an ideal backdrop for those bigger life moments. With the weather warming, the great outdoors offers the ideal setting for a marriage proposal, but where do you begin when planning your perfect proposal? Read on to discover the dos and don’ts of outdoor proposal planning.
DO be inspired by your story so far
Your relationship journey so far is unique to you, which means it can and should be used to influence your outdoor proposal.
It’s not just the location of your outdoor proposal that can have sentimental value. What you say or show your fiancée-to-be can be connected to your story in the most romantic way as Hitched explains:
“Think back to special moments you’ve had in your relationship. Could you return to a momentous location, print out pictures from all of your best dates, create a video montage of your most special moments, pen a poem with your favourite memories highlighted or show pictures of you asking all their family members for permission?”
DON’T underestimate the power of the picnic
If you’re looking for a cute proposal idea that’s made to be enjoyed outdoors, go back to basics with a picnic.
A picnic proposal is a simple but beautiful way to bring your outdoor engagement back to what matters – the both of you. You’ll of course want to pack some bubbly to celebrate your newly engaged status!
DO hire a hidden photographer
Capturing the moment you ask that all-important question and when your partner says “yes” is a must, whether you plan to propose somewhere remote or in an outdoor location that is a little closer to home. An increasing number of couples enlist a hidden photographer to document their engagement.
By hiring a professional to capture the occasion, you can focus on getting your proposal just right.
DON’T overcomplicate things
Thanks to the natural beauty of your outdoor setting, you don’t have to try too hard to make your proposal extra special. As with a proposal picnic, sometimes the simplest activities have the biggest impact.
Go flower picking, hike, punt, stargaze or host a backyard barbecue to find your own version of outdoor proposal perfection.
DO time your proposal just right
The time you propose can inject some romance into the occasion, especially if you and your partner are early risers or night owls. Sunrise and sunset are great times of the day to head outdoors to pop the question.
Congratulations on your engagement! Whether your partner proposed indoors or out, we’re certain it was as magical, memorable and personal as you always envisioned. So, what next? Check out our guide to engagement party planning to organise the ultimate get-together to celebrate with all those closest to you.
