So, you’re ready to pop the question—AHHH, so exciting!!! But you want it to be perfect, totally unforgettable, and most of all, a complete surprise. Whether you’re planning a mountain-top moment, a cozy intimate proposal, or something totally unique to your love story, I’m here to help you pull it off seamlessly! Here’s everything you need to know to plan the ultimate surprise proposal!

Create a Starting Plan

My best advice is to think about what would feel natural to your relationship! Will it be a casual hike or a romantic getaway with a surprise twist? Maybe at the end of one of your date nights? 

Would you like family and friends there to celebrate afterward, or is this a private moment meant just for the two of you? If you want loved ones involved, think about how they’ll factor into the plan—will they be hiding nearby, or will you meet up later for a surprise celebration? There’s no right or wrong answer, just what feels best for your relationship.

However, remember to also stay flexible. Sometimes, nature, weather, or even just nerves might call for a last-minute pivot. That’s okay, but consider potential backup options!

Choosing the Perfect Location for Your Surprise Proposal

There are many directions you can go with when you’re choosing the location for your surprise proposal. You could consider any meaningful spots that have significance to your relationship, like where you first met, your first date spot or your favorite hiking trail.

You could also go for a new experience! Like trying out a new spot with epic views or doing it while you’re traveling around Europe, for example. 

Need help picking the perfect spot? I provide location guides to help find the dreamiest spots for my clients!

Choosing Your Time

Choosing the right time of day and season can make a HUGE difference in the overall experience and photos! Sunrise and sunset create dreamy lighting, making your proposal feel extra magical. If you’re heading into the mountains, be aware of seasonal weather—snow can add a magical touch but also make access more challenging. Summer and fall are ideal for adventure proposals, while winter can be breathtaking with the right planning.

If a specific date holds meaning in your relationship—an anniversary, the day you first met, or even a special holiday—you might want to incorporate that into your proposal. Just keep in mind that some locations are more crowded during peak seasons and holidays, so factor that into your decision!

Hire Your Colorado Surprise Proposal Photographer

Okay, hear me out—your proposal is one of the most magical moments of your life. You NEED photos to relive that moment over and over!!

If you choose me as your Colorado surprise proposal photographer, not only will I capture all the raw emotions and excitement of the moment, but I also help plan the logistics, scout locations, and make sure everything goes off without a hitch. Plus, if you want it to be a total surprise, I can be as sneaky as needed—pretending to be a hiker, tourist, or just casually taking scenic photos nearby until the big moment happens.

My Proposal sessions are $600 and include planning, travel, a location guide, and unlimited calls to make sure we get everything just right! Just inquire with me here!

Making Sure You Both Look and Feel Amazing

Since this is a surprise, you’ll need to find a way to make sure your partner feels photo-ready without making them suspicious. Plan an activity that naturally calls for dressing up a little—maybe a fancy dinner, a scenic picnic, or a casual photoshoot for fun. If your partner tends to be low-key about outfits, have a backup plan! Bring a cute outfit for after the proposal, so they can feel their best in the photos without any stress.

If you’re looking for some outfit ideas, here is some inspiration!

Celebrate!!

After the “YES!”, it’s time to celebrate! If you have booked a photographer like me for your surprise proposal, we will take some celebratory newly-engaged pics together. But after that, you may want to continue with the good vibes!

Some Surprise Proposal Ideas

• You could plan a romantic dinner or a fun night out right after the proposal. 
• Maybe even have a styled picnic set up somewhere nearby!
• Have family and friends waiting to surprise them if that’s what they’d like. Maybe even at the picnic spot!
• Pop a bottle of bubbly and enjoy the moment.
• Go away for the weekend at a cozy vacation rental.
• Finish the hike you started, haha!

There really are so many things you could do to celebrate the big moment!

If you want this moment to be everything you’ve ever imagined (without the stress!), I’ve got you covered! Let’s plan the most magical surprise proposal together! Send me a message, and I’d LOVE to help you create the most unforgettable experience!