Although statistics for engagements are few and far between, in our experience the pandemic has spurred on far more proposals than we've ever seen before. And we love it!
Whereas once we used to experience engagement 'seasons' - traditionally this would be around Summer and Christmas time - we're experiencing a year-round surge in wedding enquiries as optimistic couples look to tie the knot after a difficult year.
If you're thinking of popping the question, we're sharing some of our favourite memorable outdoor proposal ideas. However, if you still feel like you need some help to make your proposal magical - our events team would love to help.
Outdoor proposal ideas
If you want to propose outside, then one of the most important things to consider is the weather - especially if you're planning a UK proposal. We all know how unpredictable the great British weather can be, so make sure you have a backup plan in place.
Picnic Proposals
The best thing about a picnic is that it can be enjoyed anywhere. Perhaps you have a special location that means something to you both, or maybe you're going on holiday and visiting a particularly beautiful destination - both will be the perfect setting for a romantic picnic proposal. Picking the right picnic location is crucial; you want to make sure you find a secluded spot, away from crowded areas, and ideally one with beautiful views.
For a successful picnic proposal, preparation is key. Make sure you have a beautiful hamper and fill it to the brim with all your favourite things - and of course, a bottle of bubbly to enjoy together. If you want to present the food nicely, think about bringing along wooden boards and lightweight decorative bowls for serving. It's also important to choose small items of food that can be eaten without a knife and fork.
The key to a memorable picnic proposal is ensuring the setting is as romantic as possible, so you can take pictures that you'll look back on for years to come. Finally, a romantic picnic isn't complete without a large, cosy blanket - and don't forget to bring along a huge bouquet of flowers!
Outdoor treasure hunt proposal
If a fun, relaxed proposal is your style, then an outdoor treasure hunt is the perfect solution and something you can enjoy together - or even with the help of family and friends. Your treasure hunt could take place anywhere - in your garden, at a beautiful country house or even on the beach!
So how do you bring a treasure hunt proposal to life?
There are many ways to share clues with your significant other. If you want to keep it simple, put your clues in a series of colourful envelopes for them to find. If you want to make it more interactive, think about recording video clues, or creating puzzles for them to solve.
Don't forget to wear your best outfit when you meet them at the final clue! Although they might have figured out what is happening by the time they get there, your partner will be full of anticipation, so make sure your photographer is ready and waiting to snap the big moment.
At Anopia Events, we have an in-house creative team that can take your treasure hunt ideas and bring them to life beautifully.
Instagrammable proposals
For the most instagrammable proposal, consider going to a pick-your-own farm and proposing amongst the pumpkins, Christmas trees or flowers - all of which make for showstopping engagement photographs. Arrange to have the place to yourself, visit as the sun sets and wear your best clothes for the best pictures.
Hot air balloon proposal
Drift over incredible landscapes in a hot air balloon before proposing to the love of your life! Whilst this experience is magical on its own, it's also a great idea to have a welcome party waiting for you on the ground when you land. Invite friends and family to join you in a beautiful, secluded location so you can continue to enjoy the engagement celebrations all night.
Just don't forget to make sure your significant other isn't scared of heights!
A candlelit proposal
If you’re looking for a proposal that is oozing with romance, there isn’t a better option than an outdoor area flooded with candlelight in the evening lights.
Whether this be your own garden, a hired barn, or an area of the beach, candlelight can really set the scene. Blindfold your partner and walk them through to the centre of the big reveal before asking them to remove their blindfold whilst you’re down on one knee.
If you live in an area that’s likely to be windy, make sure to use LED candles to avoid any health and safety risks and the candles blowing out before the big reveal.
These are just some of our favourite outdoor proposal ideas. If you want to make sure your proposal is out of this world, our events team are experts at bringing them to life.