Hello gentlemen, it's Genevieve, Founder of FlowerEver speaking (or writing)!
As a professional event decor team, we have planned and architected many marriage proposals in New York City. So it's safe to say that we have acquired enough experiences to share with you a quick guide on how YOU can plan and execute a perfect Marriage proposal.
Planning a dream proposal in the dynamic cityscape of New York demands meticulous attention to detail and thoughtful preparation. Without further ado, here’s a quick guide with a detailed timeline to ensure your proposal is an unforgettable moment.
Don't worry, we will cover other relevant topics on our other blogs, such as finding the location for your proposal and what kind of decorations you should do.
6 Months Before: Choose the Perfect Spot
Selecting the ideal location sets the stage for your romantic proposal. Research and explore various spots across the city—Central Park offers scenic backdrops like Bethesda Terrace, or consider the mesmerizing views from the Empire State Building. Choosing early allows time for securing permits, making reservations, or planning any surprise decorations.
Oh yea, you will need to apply for a permit in some of these locations. It won't be fun when the park officers goes up to your beautiful proposal decorations just to tell you that you can't propose there. (Yes, they really would 😫).
Just to give you some quick ideas, here are some locations that are popular choices among our clients.
Wagner Cove Central Park
- Central Park is big and Wagner Cove is very popular among our clients!
- You will need to apply for a permit before doing a proposal here
Jane's Carousel
- If you are looking for somewhere cozy and romantic, Jane's Carousel is the perfect location for you. It is highly popular among our clients.
- You will need to reserve the location. The current rate for this location is $500 for half hour and $1000 for full hour.
620 Loft & Garden
- If you are looking to really IMPRESS your bride and has a big budget to spend, then 620 Loft & Garden is your place to be.
- This rooftop garden offers a stunning view of St. Patrick's Cathedral and New York cityscape. The current hourly rate for this location is $2000.
We have other locations that we can recommend to you based on your preference and budget. We can help you find the perfect location meant for your proposal!
4 Months Before: Ring Shopping
The engagement ring is the heart of the proposal. Start browsing options based on your partner’s style—whether they prefer classic solitaires, vintage designs, or modern cuts. Consider consulting with a jeweler to understand different ring settings, stones, and metals. If customization or resizing is necessary, this timeline provides ample room for alterations.
3 Months Before: Find Your Vendors
While some of our male customers prefer a simple proposal where we kneel on one knee and pop the question with the ring, others have a different vision in mind. And this vision usually require a team of professionals to fulfill.
Here are some vendors that you may be looking to add for your proposals.
Decorator
Yep, that would be my job! Not to hard sell ourselves, but having decorations at your proposal will make everything all the more remarkable for you and your partner. There are many decorations we can do to elevate your proposal decorations, such as Marry Me Marquee Letters, floral centerpieces, a heart shape made of LED candles. You can browse our decor packages here for some inspirations.
And if you need our help putting together the decorations for you, you know how to reach us. (Just email us!😄)
Photographer & Videographer
Having a photographer is highly recommended by us because having the professionals do it just makes a huge difference. There are times when our customers ask us to help them with their photoshoot and of course we gladly do so and tried our best... but the photos are just nicer taken by the professionals.
Therefore, if you or your partner are someone who likes to collect photos to remember a specific moment in your life journey, hiring a photographer will be a critical decision to make for you. If you care more about the moment, instead of photos, then it's fine to proceed without a photographers.
At FlowerEver, we have worked with many professional photographers offering different styles of photographer and rates. We can send you a list of photographers to choose from.
Event Planner
If you are a busy man and would much rather someone else plan everything for you, we also have the right person for you. Our event planning partner GeNi NYC is a team of event planners that can help you plan your proposal from A to Z. You can sit down and relax. You can learn more about their services on their website here.
2 Months Before: Confirm the Location
Finalize your chosen spot and ensure all logistical details are in place. Make any necessary reservations for a restaurant or specific area within the chosen location, especially if you plan to have a celebratory dinner or special setup post-proposal. Confirming early ensures a hassle-free experience on the big day.
1 Month Before: Plan the Surprise
Start fine-tuning the specifics. Consider the timing that best suits your proposal—whether it’s the golden hues of sunset or the quiet beauty of an early morning sunrise. Keep an eye on the weather forecast to prepare for any unexpected changes and have a backup plan ready. Map out the logistics—travel arrangements, potential hiding spots for photographers, and any additional props or surprises you plan to incorporate.
1 Week Before: Double-Check Details
As the day draws closer, it’s time for a final check. Confirm all reservations, including the photographer if hired, and reconfirm any appointments or arrangements. Ensure the ring is safely stored in a secure place where it’s easily accessible when the moment arrives. Use this time to mentally rehearse your proposal speech or any special words you want to convey.
The Day Before: Final Preparations
Take a deep breath and revisit your proposal plan. Ensure all necessary items are packed and ready to go. Recheck the weather forecast and make any last-minute adjustments if needed. Try to relax and enjoy the anticipation of the special moment.
The Proposal Day:
The day has arrived! Here's a breakdown of how to navigate the proposal day:
Morning: Start the day with a calm and relaxed mindset. Double-check all arrangements, and if time allows, engage in activities that bring you peace and joy.
Afternoon: Review your proposal plan, ensuring everything is set according to your vision. Take some time for yourself to gather your thoughts and mentally prepare for the big moment.
Evening: Head to the chosen location ahead of schedule to set up if required. Ensure that everything is in place and ready to create a magical setting for your proposal.
Post-Proposal: Celebrate and Share the News
Once the magic moment happens, it’s time to revel in the joy:
Celebrate: Celebrate your new engagement! Take photographs, enjoy the moment, and bask in the sheer happiness of the occasion.
Share the News: Share the news with close friends and family. Consider planning a small celebration or video call to spread the happiness.
Reflect: Take some time with your partner to reflect on the significance of this moment in your lives. Embrace the excitement of planning your future together.
Final Tips
- Stay Flexible: Despite meticulous planning, unexpected surprises might occur. Embrace spontaneity and adaptability.
- Savor the Moment: Amidst the excitement, remember to cherish every second of this special day in your relationship.
By meticulously planning each step using this timeline, you can ensure a seamless and unforgettable proposal experience in the bustling cityscape of New York.
