Do you dream of popping the question somewhere spectacular? A beach at sunset? Or perhaps a mountaintop at sunrise? Destination marriage proposals combine romance, adventure, and personal meaning into one utterly unforgettable moment. But thoughtful planning is essential to ensure your proposal goes off without a hitch. From choosing a meaningful location and timing the moment, to considering flourishes that your partner will appreciate, here are some practical tips on creating a memory you will both remember for a lifetime.

Pick a destination that holds meaning for you

Think beyond just a beautiful setting (of which there are many). Make it personal. Choose a destination that resonates with your shared story. Maybe it’s the first city you traveled to together, a vacation spot you’ve both always talked about, or a location tied to your family heritage. A beach, a mountaintop, or beneath the Northern Lights, are all incredible destinations that set a breathtaking scene, but it’s their emotional significance that will make the proposal personal and impactful.

Use local experts to help set the scene

If you’re planning to pop the question in an unfamiliar location, you’ll need insider knowledge so that the process is seamless. You’ll need answers to very specific questions: where can you find your partner’s favorite peonies in the off-season? Which clifftop spot has the best sunset view and remains quiet, even on weekends? Where can you find an intimate place where crowds won’t suddenly appear?

Local experts and proposal planners can help with these questions, and more. Many high-end hotels and resorts now offer proposal planning services. At some, you’ll even get your own “proposal butler” to manage details such as securing private spots, lighting the candles, arranging flowers or champagne, and ensuring that everything runs smoothly. They will even time the music cue if you want one.

Capture the moment

Hiring a local photographer or videographer who is familiar with your chosen destination ensures that your special moment is perfectly documented. These pros not only have technical skills, they know the hidden and most scenic photo spots, the best lighting and time of day for taking a photo, and how to remain discreet until the big moment so that they don’t spoil the surprise. If a full shoot really isn’t your style or feels too formal, even a few candid shots can make your engagement album extra special.

Choose the perfect ring

The ring is the centerpiece of your destination proposal. Choose one that reflects your partner’s style and personality. When selecting the perfect ring, consider the timeless elegance of halo engagement rings, which offer a dazzling centerpiece surrounded by a circle of tiny diamonds. These rings combine brilliance and tradition, making them ideal for capturing attention in photographs and during your moment together.

Turn your proposal into a story

A destination proposal is more than just a beautiful place and a ‘yes’. It’s the start of a new chapter in your story. With a meaningful location, thoughtful planning, and a ring your partner will cherish, it’s a moment you’ll both remember forever.