6 low-key ways to propose if a public proposal is not your thing

Movies, books, and even a lot of real-life instances have led us to believe that the perfect proposal is one where you pull out all the stops and make a grand gesture. Think going down on one knee during a concert, writing the ever-important question in the sky with the help of a plane, or proposing in front of the Eiffel Tower in the ultimate romantic destination. But the truth is that the best proposal is the one that’s tailored to your relationship and your partner’s interests. If they’re introverted and don’t like when all the attention is on them, especially in a new setting, and the same goes for you, then a showy proposal might not be a good idea. At the same time, a low-key proposal doesn’t have to mean that you can’t put in your best effort—scroll through the ideas below and start planning!

Go on an intimate picnic

If your plans for the proposal align with pleasant weather, make the most of the opportunity and incorporate a fun picnic-for-two in the event. Pick a neighbourhood park you both love going to (even the terrace would do!), pack their favourite snacks and drinks—don’t be afraid to go all out to make the occasion even more special, and bring along some card games or a romantic book or two. Then, when the timing is just right, pop the question. 

Plan a romantic scavenger hunt

Puzzle-loving partners will greatly enjoy a personalised scavenger hunt that leads up to a cute, intimate proposal. The scale of the treasure hunt is up to you; it could feature your favourite spots dotted across the city or even confined to the different corners of your home. When it comes to both a successful scavenger hunt and a memorable proposal, the little details matter. So, keep the clues as meaningful and relatable to your relationship as you can and watch your partner have the time of their life!

Pop the question after a hike

If you two are the adventurous type and love going on walks and treks, then let one of those trails take a romantic turn by planning a sweet proposal at the end of it. You could pick a trek that both of you have gone on multiple times and holds significance to you or a bucket list trek that both of you have been meaning to do. Bonus points if it’s a particularly scenic route! 

Propose on a secluded beach

We can’t think of anything more romantic than being proposed to on an empty beach, with the gentle waves and setting sun acting as the perfect backdrop to a monumental moment. You could go the extra mile and decorate the area beforehand with flowers of your partner’s choice or even do an elaborate set-up, but even if you don’t, the moment will be just as magical! The location also makes for a stunning engagement shoot post the proposal. 

Incorporate their favourite food into the occasion

Their favourite dessert, a dish you made together for the first time, making them breakfast in bed, even something as simple as ordering a nice meal from their go-to restaurant—the options are endless when it comes to adding a food element to your proposal. While we don’t recommend hiding the ring in one of the dishes, you can get creative and pipe the question with frosting on some cupcakes or arrange the food to form letters. 

Say it with a letter

If you have a way with words, or if your partner loves writing or receiving handwritten notes or letters, what better way to profess your commitment than by writing a sappy proposal? Bonus points if you include all your memorable moments that will make them tear up with joy, though we guarantee the act itself will suffice!

Pick a spot that matters to both of you

Low-key doesn’t have to mean low effort! It’s all about how much thought you put into the once-in-a-lifetime event. If you and your partner are the sentimental kind, then pick a spot that is meaningful for both of you. It could be a bench in the neighbourhood park you both frequent, a favourite restaurant, or a destination where you went on your first vacation as a couple. 

All images: Pexels

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