How to propose in public
Whether you want to propose in a sports venue or outdoors in a special landmark, popping the question in public involves strategy and preparation while being considerate of your partner's personality and wishes. Keep the following tips in mind if you plan to pop the question outside the privacy of your own home.
Maybe you've always wanted to propose to your girlfriend on a large scale, such as through a special message on a Jumbotron during the next big game. But before you put those plans in motion, you should consider your partner's personality. Someone who is private is not likely to appreciate sharing a special moment with thousands of spectators. If that is the case for your partner, then consider opting out of the public proposal and planning something low-key.
If you truly feel your significant other will be comfortable with a public proposal, your next concern might be where to get down on bended knee. Consider venues that are meaningful to both of you and reflect your personalities. If your significant other couldn't care less about baseball, then don't propose at your favorite team's stadium. Instead, propose at the site of your first date or at a favorite restaurant.
If you create an obstacle on a sidewalk in a busy part of town so you can propose, you might face the ire of commuters trying to get to work. In addition, a proposal that includes the public's involvement, such as through sign-holding or singing a song, may not go according to plan. Not everyone wants to be involved in your proposal, and that is something you will need to consider.
Before asking the big question, you'll need to do research regarding the venue's policy on proposals. If you plan to use a stadium for a more public and elaborate proposal, such as through a message on an electronic billboard or on the field during halftime, then you will need to contact the venue's management in advance. Some venues may have restrictions on proposals scheduled through the organization; for example, theChicago Cubsbaseball team allows one public proposal via its electronic scoreboard per game.
Will your proposal include close family and friends? Depending on what your plans entail, including those nearest to you and your significant other could create an overwhelming experience for your partner. In addition, seeing numerous family and friends at a concert venue or game could give a hint to your partner that something is afoot. Proceed with caution if you do decide to include others.
If you feel your significant other would like a way to remember the proposal, then consider hiring a photographer or videographer to capture the event. To find someone to capture the big moment, look for wedding photographers in your area via sites such asWedding Photojournalist AssociationandWedding Portrait & Photographers International. You can always reach out to a photographer whose style you admire and see if she would consider taking pictures of a proposal.
When it comes to public proposals, it is important to keep it short and sweet. The general public does not want you to regale them with a 20-minute recap of your relationship with your significant other, and may become uncomfortable and uncooperative after a few minutes. While it may seem rushed, opt to keep your public proposal under approximately three minutes. Keep in mind that what seems like a short period of time to you may feel longer to others.
A public proposal may require advance notice, preparation, and courtesy to others. Most importantly, you should consider your partner's feelings and personality when deciding if popping the question in front of others is a possibility.
