Planning the perfect proposal is a tricky thing, even if you’re planning on popping the question in your hometown.
So, when it comes to combining a proposal with traveling, things can get even trickier. Here are five things you’ll want to think about if you’re considering proposing during a trip.
Destination
The setting for your proposal will no doubt hold a special place in your hearts, so how do you go about choosing the perfect spot? You may want to take your beloved back to a place with special significance for both of you, such as the destination of your first getaway together or your favorite weekend vacation spot. Or, you might pick a new locale you know your soon-to-be fiancé will love, such as the Caribbean, Hawaii or Europe. Keep in mind it will probably take a little more legwork to plan a proposal in a destination you’ve never visited rather than one you’re somewhat familiar with, but that doesn’t mean it’s impossible.
Logistics
Whether you’re planning on proposing underwater during a deep-sea dive or under the moonlight at the most romantic landmark in town, you’re probably going to want all the help you can get when it comes to pulling off the big moment without a hitch. A good hotel staff won’t mind arranging spa treatments or other activities to keep your significant other preoccupied while you make the final preparations, and the owners of a local tour company might be very receptive to preparing a special surprise for your sweetheart on an otherwise “routine” tour. Rather than trying to take on everything yourself, spend some time finding people who can help take some of the load off your plate.
The ring
Some would say you can’t have a proposal without a ring, but that isn’t always the case. If you’re planning a particularly adventurous trip, it may make more sense to leave a valuable ring at home and propose with a keepsake ring or without one at all. If a ring is definitely going to play a starring role in your proposal, though, be sure to bring its appraisal certificate with you so there are no questions as to its worth or where it was purchased when you go through customs. While you’re keeping the ring hidden, be sure to pack it in a jewelry pouch or box to protect it from damage. And, obviously, pack it somewhere your loved one’s not likely to look.
Photography
When it comes to the wedding, hiring a professional photographer is often a given. But what about the proposal? Wouldn’t you want to have that moment when surprise melts into a “yes” captured in a shot you can share with friends and family? You don’t necessarily need to spring for a professional photographer to capture your proposal — consider looking for a local photography student or asking your hotel’s concierge if they know of anyone who’d be interested in helping you capture the big moment.
The announcement
Everything went off without a hitch and you’re engaged! Congratulations! Now, how do you let everyone back home know about your engagement? You could wait until you return from your trip to announce the big news if you’d prefer to tell people in person, or, if you don’t want to wait (and you’d like to make a big splash), you could use the power of Wi-Fi (video chat, anyone?) and social media networks to let your loved ones know about the proposal. Facebook, Twitter and email are all solid options, especially if you have photos or video to share. And who knows — if you planned a particularly spectacular proposal abroad, you might even go viral.
(Main image: NatShots Photography)
