Over theTop Proposals

Well, it's February and LOVE is in the air with Valentine's Day approaching - only one day away! (OMG! I can't believe how the time has gone already this year!)

My thoughts have turned to love, engagements, proposals and with proposals, as an event planner, I tend to think about the opportunities available for 'over-the-top' proposals. There are many great restaurants which can set the stage for an amazing proposal but this has now become the norm.

A great marriage proposal includes 3 elements:
1. The setting
With the setting - it should be so that the question is not anticipated. Think outside of locations that are give-aways like the spot where you first kissed, etc. Instead think locations that are fun - eluding to the life you will have ahead of you. Think about dates and timing, on average, most proposals are in the evening on a special date. Create your own date - seriously thing out side the box. (This is something as an event planner I can help you with.)
2. The question
The question should be more than just 'will you marry me'. Romantic speeches are common based on love and commitment; however you can play it up many ways using word plays, poems, and even comic relief. A reference to future anniversaries or aspects of marriages could be used.
3. The ring
Once the ring is unveiled - it is the center of attention. An unconventional ring will bring more attention but a simple ring can bring in the nods by simply playing with how it is presented. Play with how you give it - just remember if you include it in a drink or food - be careful that she doesn't swallow it!

Often I'm approached with questions as to how to make a proposal more than spectacular. The answer really does depend on the couple and the soon to be bride's personality. Not all couples or women will appreciate a public proposal as they would prefer to have it in a quieter setting, a more intimate affair. That said, if you are thinking about a more extreme event then you probably have already considered the opposing factors. One being - will she say yes? With more extreme measures normally a crowd is involved and then there is also pressure as to feeling the need to answer right away.

This year I came across a wonderful company in PEI.....

The BeeKeeper aka 'Chase Crews' is who you should look up - www.aboveandbeeyond.com . For $225 they will take you and your honey up in their hot air balloon for a ride overlooking PEI. I bet there won't be many people who have done that! (Drop me a line to tell me about it if you have.)

If that doesn't get your juices flying, there is a high school in the US that gives creative asking a whole new look and that's just for the prom! The point being if high-schoolers can come up with outlandish ways to ask a date to the prom certainly you can spend a bit of time thinking of how to ask the woman of your life to marry you.

Cheers!