So you have decided that time is right on your relationship and you think you are both ready to take the next step and commit to each other. Well, Congrats! and now what? I got you! There are a number of ways you can propose, but if you are overwhelmed and don’t know where to start then follow along and we’ll create an memorable proposal for you and your partner without having to break the bank. Through this article we will give you some tips and tools to get your started but rather than making a youtuber style epic proposal, we believe in keeping things simple and making it meaningful for both of you.
Step 1: Make sure your path align
Before taking the decision, it’s important to have a chat over time and often enough about the future and what your plans are. Nothing is set in stone and things can always change, but make sure that important decisions like moving in together or having kids is or is not on both of your priorities to make sure you are both moving in the same direction and at the same speed. When talking about these intimate priorities, it’s important to make sure that the time and setting is right, probably a dinner out with friends is not the best time to put your cards on the table. Marriage is about fusing your lives together and not just a diamond and a big party.
Step 2: Reflect on who you are as a couple and your favourite moments
Start by making a list of your favourite memories and the places where you have been the happiest. An epic proposal is one that truly reflects who you are and one that stays true to your relationship and who you are as a couple, and your unique story, always keep in mind that it is the love and commitment you share the most important part.
Step 3: How to find where to propose?
So you have started sketching some ideas and you started thinking about your engagement could look like, but you are still a bit lost and you are not very sure how to make it work? If you are starting to brainstorm for location then start by considering your partner’s interests. Do you both love the outdoors and sports? Then you could consider a weekend of hiking, or a wild adventure like Kayaking, a beautiful garden or a weekend of surfing and bonfires. If you are more urban and a foodie, maybe museums, theatre or a fancy restaurant or more reflective of you both. The key is to think about what your partner loves and what will make them feel special.
Here is a list of some great ideas on locations to propose:
Where did you meet?
Are you an active couple that love the outdoors or you are more urban and a foodie?
Where did you go on your first holiday together?
Where did you used to grab coffee when you would meet in the early days?
What was the first movie you went to see together?
Where did you have your first date?
Let’s go on an adventure
During a weekend gateaway
The most incredible locations to propose in Victoria
Flinders - Mornington Peninsula
There are a number of secluded areas around Flinders in the Mornington Peninsula. Put on your trekking shoes and wonder off to some great locations with incredible views.
Sorrento Back beach - Mornington Peninsula
This is a great and wild beach. The beach along the coast towards the surf on the Mornington peninsula are less busy than the bay beaches.
Hot Springs - Mornington Peninsula
Nothing more relaxing than a day at the hot springs soaking your worries away. The hot springs have a range of cabanas and quiet spaces to rest and have a picnic. This could be the best location for a chilled proposal
Twelve Apostles -Gibson steps - Port Campbell
This is a great location with an incredible backdrop, but only one issue: a ton of tourists! You probably want to try and avoid crowds so it’s best to consider an off peak season like Autumn or spring and also on off peak time like early morning. Consider going down to Gibson steps, this is at the beach level and you will have an incredible view minus the crowds.
Wilsons Promontory National Park - Mornington Peninsula
This is one of Victoria's largest coastal wilderness area. Known affectionately as 'The Prom', this 50,000 hectare reserve is a beloved park and for good reason. With a labyrinth of walking tracks showcasing magical realms teeming with wildlife. Wilsons Promontory is a sanctuary for an array of native wildlife including kangaroos, emus, wombats, echidnas, and vibrant birds like rosellas.
Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens - The Dandenongs (Sherbrook)
Located in Sherbrook, these gardens are a great location to visit. Keep in mind that weekends tend to be very busy, the gardens keep green and tempered all year around. This is a great location to conisder if you love the rainforest.
RJ Hamer Arboretum - The Dandenongs (Olinda)
Originaly a pine plantation, the arboretum is a very picturesque location that many families visit over weekends. This is a very popular location so expect some public around the area. From here there are a number of possible walks that could take you to a more secluded area of the park.
Yarra Valley - Coldstream
We couldn’t compile a list that is wedding related without including the Yarra Valley. There are a number of incredible wineries in this area, so maybe a weekend away at a winery could be the best way to propose. The Yarra Valley is an incredible location in Autumn as the leaves change colours and there are a number of places that will display an incredible range of reds and yellows.
While contemplating the location for your proposal, keep in mind the change of seasons and weather. The beach tends to get busy on hot summer days, so if you want a secluded and quiet space you will have to go early in the morning or on an overcast day.
Step4: Choosing a ring
There are a number of resources online to find how to choose an engagement ring, like the one from Wiki-how . We have attempted to create a more comprehensive guide that hopefully will allow you to have a one stop shop when it comes to finding information about how to plan your proposal.
Traditionally the ring has been a symbol of your love and commitment to each other, so it should reflect your personality and style.
Here are some tips to help you find the engagement ring for your proposal:
Set a budget:
Don’t over spend and don’t go into debt, but start looking at the different options to understand the market and the technicalities.
Learn the language, the 4C’s: Carat weight, Clarity, Colour and Cut.
It’s best to do some reasearch to understand how these will influence the price and quality of the final ring.
Consider your partner’s style:
Take close attention to the jewellery they currently have and the type of clothes or what they are attracted to. This will help you to determine the style of the ring. Is it more of a sporty person, or into the outdoors? Do they love modern art or music? Maybe they will love something more edgy rather than the traditional diamond ring.
Shop around:
Don’t be scared to look around. There are a number of options that would work well as an engagement ring that don’t involve a diamond. If you are set on something more traditional then maybe start looking at the different options like man made diamonds and natural diamond.
Trust the professional:
If you are still in limbo then visit a reputable jeweller and ask for their advice. Bring along some photos so they understand who your partner is and they can guide you in the selection process.
Choosing an engagement ring can feel overwhelming, but with some careful consideration and research, you'll find the perfect ring to symbolize your love and commitment.
Step 5: Start planning a proposal
This is when it all comes together. Remember to keep things simple and meaningful to you and your relationship, and get creative. Don’t be scared of enlisting a family member or a friend to make things work. Keep in mind the logistics for the day, if you are planning a picnic, maybe consider hiring a company to set it up for you so you don’t have to carry things around. Also consider the time of the year and the possibility of crowds in the area.
Finally, proposing to your partner is an intimate moment that can be overwhelming and confusing. However, by taking the time to plan and prepare, you can create a memorable proposal that is meaningful and personal to both you and your partner. It is essential to have a conversation with your partner about your future plans, priorities and goals before deciding to propose. When planning the proposal, remember to consider your unique story as a couple and your favourite moments to create a proposal that truly reflects your relationship. The location you choose to propose should be special to both of you and tailored to your partner's interests. Victoria, Australia, offers a wide range of stunning locations that are ideal for a proposal. It is essential to focus on the love and commitment that you share with your partner rather than the extravagance of the proposal. Keep it simple, heartfelt and true to who you are as a couple. With these tips and tools, you are on your way to creating an unforgettable proposal that your partner will treasure for a lifetime.