Top Proposal Tips for Guys

Thank you so much for visiting my blog! My name is Vanessa, and I own Vanessa Palomino Photography specializing in proposal photo sessions in South Florida, including West Palm Beach, Palm Beach County, Royal Palm Beach, Wellington, Jupiter, Boca Raton, Delray Beach and beyond.  Do you want to book a session with me and start planning your wedding proposal? That’s wonderful, and I am super excited to work with you. I book limited engagement sessions per month. Click here to contact me! Chat with you soon!

Top Proposal Tips for Guys

If you are here, it is probably because you are ready to propose to your partner and make it official! I know planning a proposal can be a lot of work, so I put together this guide to make it easier for you to plan your proposal.

Tip #1 Plan out the proposal but go with the flow.

You should definitely plan the marriage proposal and not just wing it, but it is important to remember that the proposal may not going to according to plan. It is smart to leave some buffer time if you plan on making sure she is pampered the day you plan to propose (sometimes hair and makeup can run behind). Also, make sure to have a back-up plan in case the weather isn’t ideal. I live in Florida, and the weather here during summer and hurricane months can be quite unpredictable.

Tip #2 Pick a day other than an anniversary or holiday.

Trust me when I say, women get a gut instinct when their man is about to propose…they know. To make it a true surprise proposal, pick a day she would not suspect. If she has a gut reason to believe you are going to propose on an anniversary or holiday, go with a different day. I had one groom fly down to Florida while his bride was visiting family and had a family session. He surprised her at the photo session and she had no idea that the session was a proposal! Her face was in shock and screaming with happiness.

Tip #3 Make in meaningful.

This is the time to really dive deep- what does your future bride like to do, what makes her happy, what would not make her happy. If she is like me and does not like to be the center of attention, then plan to propose to her at private location. If she loves animals, maybe plan a proposal at the zoo.

Tip #4 Consider the time of day and location.

The time for a proposal is so important. Trust me when I say, women love sunset photos. Click here to get an example of a sunset engagement. The time for this is about an hour before sunset.

Also, consider the location. Some locations are congested with people. For example, the beach on the weekends are packed with people. If you can do it, I would suggest a weekday proposal.

Bonus: when looking for a location to propose at, make sure to check the cities rules about permits (zoos, museums, parks, buildings, boats, etc).

Tip #5 Pamper her!

Get her friend in on this so that it is not too obvious that you are planning something. Ask her best friend to take her to get a manicure and pedicure done.

Other things to consider: hair, makeup and outfit.

Tip #6 Speak from the heart.

Plan what you are going to say for the proposal and speak from the heart.

Things you could tell her:

  • tell her how much you love her;
  • the first time you met;
  • when you knew you were in love;
  • when you knew she was the one;
  • a funny story about you two; or
  • tell her the things you look forward to with her like building a home together, traveling, having kids, growing old together.

Tip #7 Make it a Party!

Make it a party! Plan a dinner or small party for after the proposal. Invite friends and family because trust me when I say, she will want to show off her engagement ring!

Tip #8 Hire a photographer!

She already has her hair, makeup and nails done…why not take this opportunity and take some beautiful photos! If you are planning to propose in South Florida, I would love to be considered. Not only do I show up to capture the amazing proposal, I also help you plan a proposal that your future bride will love!

Let’s chat!


If you have any proposal tips for guys, please comment down below!


proposal tips for guys
Beach proposal in Palm Beach, Florida; Top Proposal Tips for Guys

Looking for a Palm Beach Photographer who will help you plan your marriage proposal? Look no more, I am your photographer! I take on limited proposal photo sessions each month, so please reach out sooner rather than later if you want to work with me. I also help make planning your proposal easy by helping your plan and consulting with you before your proposal to make sure everything goes as according to plan as it can go! Click here to book your proposal photo session, or to chat about it.

October 10, 2022

  1. Lee says:

    Omg! Such a great idea. This is a valuable resource for those planning a proposal.

  2. Joycelyn C says:

    Glad I found your blog. These tips will set the tone for a successful, meaningful moment that she cherise throughout their engagement.

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