How to Pick the Perfect Engagement Spot

Planning the moment you ask your partner to marry you can be overwhelming just as much as it is exciting. Even if you know they are going to say “yes,” you certainly feel pressure to make the experience perfect. To put your mind at ease, your partner will be happy with however you plan to propose. That said, I’m sure you still feel a bit intimidated. From the perspective of an experienced wedding photographer, here is how to pick the perfect engagement spot – one that is fit for the Instagram post your soon-to-be fiancé will be eager to upload.

Take Some Time to Reflect

It may seem odd to find the first recommendation to finding the perfect engagement spot is reflection, but this is actually an extremely important step. Every couple has their own unique personality, so no two engagement stories should look the same. Some couples are more adventurous, others are more private, some love the spotlight, and others are all about romance. Take some time to think about what you and your partner will enjoy as part of your engagement story first, which will help you narrow your list of potential locations for your engagement.

Locations with Meaning

The next item to think about when you are planning where to propose is if there are particular locations that hold special meaning to you and your partner. That could be where you had your first date, where you first said “I love you,” or even a place you always planned to visit together. As a destination wedding photographer, I have seen (and captured) first-hand how special it can be to propose to your partner on a vacation you have always dreamed of together – plus it makes for gorgeous photos!

Restrictions, Date, Time, and Attire

Once you have identified a location that you believe would be perfect for you to pop the big question, there are a few additional things you need to consider before finalizing your decision – some may just impact your day-of planning, but others could call for a change of location:

·       Restrictions: If you want to, as an example, have a pet involved in your engagement experience, you will want to ensure that pets are allowed at your chosen location.

·       Date: Seasons impact scenery, so if the foliage or weather are a big part of why you chose your location, be sure to do some research to be certain your chosen date allows for the scenery you’re looking for.

·       Time: Eventually, the sun sets every day, but the time that happens will vary. You’ll also want to do a bit of research into when the sun is expected to set the day you plan to propose so you can plan accordingly

·       Attire: For the picture-perfect moment, you will want the clothes you and your partner are wearing to fit the location you will propose at. That will require you giving your partner a bit of guidance day-of (and they’ll be glad you did).

The most important aspect of planning the perfect engagement, from the perspective of an experienced wedding photographer (that has heard or been part of countless engagement stories), is customizing the experience and location for you and your partner. When it comes knowing what your soon-to-be spouse would appreciate most, you truly are the expert.