It’s the most popular day of the year to propose, and it’s not hard to see why – romance is everywhere you look on Valentine’s Day and across the country many people will be getting ready to pop the question on 14th February this year.
However, if you want to make your Valentine’s proposal a magical moment to never forget, then don’t leave it to chance; planning ahead is key to make sure it goes exactly how you want it to.
Four of the wedding coordinators from luxury hotel group Elite Hotels have shared their top tips for planning the perfect Valentine’s Day proposal.
Find the perfect place to pop the question
Choosing the right location is everything – Janet Large, Senior Wedding Coordinator at Luton Hoo Hotel, Golf & Spa, recommends doing your research to find the ideal setting to propose.
“If your other half prefers privacy over a big public gesture, find somewhere that has a beautiful secluded spot so it can be a special moment just between the two of you. Within
our 1,065 estate, Luton Hoo Hotel has lots of picturesque backdrops, but my favourite would be the secret rock garden which is stunning all year round and offers total privacy to pop the question.”
Set the scene and take their breath away
The perfect proposal is a moment you’ll never want to forget, so make sure you choose a picture-perfect backdrop so you have beautiful photos ready when you want to share the news with your friends and family.
At The Grand Hotel in Eastbourne, the hotel’s sea view suites have balconies that can be transformed into a private dining spot for just the two of you, with chilled Champagne, handmade chocolates and strawberries, and the sunset over the sea on the horizon.
Caroline Harms, Events Office Manager says: “Our event co-ordinators are always at hand to help with any tailor-made ideas you have to make your event special, and can help with photos if necessary – so please just ask for ideas and solutions, or even just a quick chat to steady your nerves on the day!”
Get creative
Getting down on one knee is a fail-safe traditional option, but if you really want to push the boat out for your proposal it might be time to get creative.
At Tylney Hall Hotel & Gardens, the events team have seen several memorable proposals where the groom has gone the extra mile. Senior Events Coordinator Sue Ellingford said: “One of our signature suites has a fantastic balcony that looks down onto the gardens – you could use candles to spell out ‘will you marry me’ and take your future fiancé out at dusk to surprise them.”
Similarly, Events Manager Debbie Hine helped plan a proposal where just asking the question wasn’t enough: “The groom booked afternoon tea for the two of them, and part way through took her out onto the Italian Terrace to see an aeroplane he had booked flying past, with ‘will you marry me’ and her name on a banner!”
Don’t be afraid to ask for help
Planning the perfect proposal can be stressful as you want to get it just right – but don’t feel like you have to do it all by yourself.
Claire Hierons, Event Coordinator at Ashdown Park Hotel & Country Club recommends asking the hotel for a helping hand.
“If you’re planning to propose while you’re away, ask the hotel you’re staying at if there’s anything special they can help you plan. Many hotels will offer a dedicated proposal package – at Ashdown Park we have one that includes rose petals on the bed, chilled Champagne waiting on arrival and a three-course dinner in a private dining room.
“To make the proposal really special, I’d suggest heading down to the lake and having a beautiful bespoke picnic delivered there to surprise your loved one and enjoy in the sun.”
For more information about the Elite Hotel Group, visit www.elitehotels.co.uk
