When you think about proposing, your mind probably does not immediately think of hiring a professional planner, It’s okay; that’s totally normal. You’ve probably put a ton of time into considering options for how to propose. Now’s a great time (before you have popped the question, we mean) to consider hiring a planner or photographer and integrate them into your proposal. While the two of you will certainly remember this moment for a lifetime, what could be nicer than having it documented for a lifetime as well?

1. Know your proposal.
It’s not simply good enough to have an idea of how you’d like to propose– you have to know your proposal plan inside and out. This means what you are doing, what your white lies are, how you’re going to get both of you to wear nice clothing, and what the schedule is. If you can pick someplace beautiful and romantic, all the better. Think mountain backdrops or a field. It’s much more intimate.

2. Start interviewing your helpers.
Whether you need help planning your proposal, making it happen, or simply having the photographer on hand the moment of proposal, it helps to get started early. Interview potential candidates for the big day and get a start early. We know it also goes without saying, but don’t interview them in your house or apartment… it’s a dead giveaway. Ask for references, photos, portfolios, the works. A qualified professional will supply you with all of it and more than that, give you confidence in their ability to deliver.

3. Get the cover story or motivation ready.
If you can line up your proposal with something that is completely believable, good for you. However, if you guys really don’t go to formal events that often and it’s unusual, you’re going to have to come up with a very convincing cover story. Perhaps it might be worth it to think this out ahead of time. An easy white lie is that you are going out to dinner with your couple friends and he’s going to propose to her, so you have to be dressed up because they’re going to a nice place. Then say you want to stop off at a spot that is picturesque on the way. Leave enough time, float the idea ahead of time and get her to say yes, leave early.

This is just one example, but regardless, you need a cover story. Make it important enough so that they’ll be unlikely to back out even if they’re not feeling it. Whatever the cover is, make sure it involves him or her having a fresh mani/pedi and a nice outfit and photograph-ready style, whatever that is for them. Parent’s anniversary, friend’s proposal, long-lost roommate’s reunion dinner– it doesn’t matter. Just make sure it’s believable!

4. Make it happen.
The last thing you have to do is make the proposal happen! You’ve planned so much and worked so hard, and now it’s time to finally pull it off. So go ahead, make it happen. Lie if you have to! Your significant other will forgive you. In fact, they’ll probably be thrilled with you for weeks, so go for it and have the proposal of a lifetime.