So, you’ve finally found the person you want to spend the rest of your life with, and you’re ready to pop the question. What do you do?! Follow these 5 tips for the perfect surprise proposal!

man kneels down with ring on bridge by seattle wedding photographer

Tip #1: Reach out to a Photographer

Asking someone to marry you is a momentous occasion, and one that should rightly be celebrated. And documented! Start contacting local photographers to see if they have availability on the dates you are considering for your surprise question. Try and find someone who is aligned with you and you SO’s style, so you can have images that you will be excited about for years to come.

newly engaged couple hold hands in front of city skyline

Tip #2: What Kind of Surprise?!

As a Seattle Wedding Photographer, I’ve captured many surprise proposals. Sometimes, the client will schedule a regular shoot, and use the opportunity to pop the question. Other times, the whole thing is a secret, and I’m hiding in the bushes until I he gets down on one knee! Decide what kind of surprise you want to arrange.

new fiance admires her ring in the trees in Washington

two women show off ring pop engagement rings

Tip #3: Choose the Perfect Setting

This is a beautiful moment in your life as a couple, so make sure the setting matches that! Choose a place that is beautiful, or that has special meaning to the two of you. And make sure you think about where the sun will be when you’re there! Lighting can make or break a location, so aim for an hour before sunset (that magical golden hour!) Don’t forget you can ask your photographer about when the best time is for perfect lighting!

newly engaged couple smile on a candle lit dock in Washington

Tip #4: Bring Help

You’ll probably want someone there to help you with logistics, since you’ll need certain details done in secrecy. Enlist a trusted friend or family member to be there to make sure all the details go perfectly! As a photographer we will be 100% focused on not missing the moment, so having someone else hiding away to help with logistics can be the perfect solution!

friend helps arrange decorations in 5 tips for the perfect surprise proposal

friends join man to prepare for the surprise proposal captured by seattle wedding photographer

Tip #5: Have a Backup Plan

Be prepared for the unknown! You never know what the weather might be like, and as a Seattle wedding photographer, I’ve seen it all! In the event of weather, car trouble, or closed venues, having a back up plan can be a life saver! Bring umbrellas or pick a location that has lots of options!