Should You Propose Privately or Publicly?

Congrats! You’ve done it! You’ve found the person you want to spend the rest of your life with. Your next big task is planning your romantic proposal. Now, do you want an audience or an intimate occasion? The question of "which is better?" really comes down to personal taste.

The case for public proposals

A public proposal is when you ask someone to marry you in front of other people. Consider if your significant other would appreciate the attention and the extra pairs of eyes on them while you pop the question. A proposal at a family dinner or a big, romantic gesture at a concert are both considered public proposals.

One of the main advantages of a public proposal is that other people can get involved. You can gather your closest friends and family members to witness this big moment. Everyone involved in the proposal loves you and wishes you well. We would hope (and assume) everyone would be very supportive no matter the answer to the question. It's also a great choice if you want an engagement party right after the proposal!

A public proposal is also the best choice for those couples that love grand gestures of affection. We're looking at you, theater kids, it's your time to shine! You can plan a flash mob at the park, a kiss cam proposal at a football stadium, a skywriting proposal if you're adventurous, and so many more options. New York has all the beautiful locations for your public proposal and your hired photographer can easily blend in with the crowd.

However, a public event like this has its downsides. Both the asker and the askee are under a lot of pressure when making a public proposal. A negative or unexpected response could end in embarrassment and humiliation. The "yes" needs to be given without pressure and an audience creates pressure to give the right answer.

The case for private proposals

The key is that you keep the proposal private. Just you, your lover, and the photographer you hired. It becomes this incredibly intimate moment that no one else shares. Well, except for your photographer hiding nearby. Private and intimate does not mean impromptu or unprepared. In fact, you have a lot more creative freedom!

If you or your partner are shy, hate being the center of attention, uncomfortable with dramatic public displays of affection, or dating for less than a year, then a private, more intimate proposal is your best bet. The proposal is supposed to be about you and your partner. Don't get pressured to do the trendy proposals if that's not something you'd enjoy. You can even keep the engagement a secret for as long as you want and surprise everyone!

A disadvantage to a private proposal is the possibility of it being anticlimactic. If your lover is someone who loves celebrating with family and friends, a private proposal can be disappointing for them. They won't be able to share the news immediately with their loved ones.

New York is beautiful with lots of opportunities for romance. You can plan a proposal at a rooftop with a view of the city, a quiet beach, a private dining room at your favorite restaurant, a sunny picnic at the park, or at home. If you're going for a private proposal, you can always plan an engagement party after you popped the question. Inform your friends and family of your plan and set a time and location for your engagement party. You can enjoy a sweet, intimate moment with your soon-to-be fiance or fiancee and pop the champagne with your loved ones after.

Remember that your marriage proposal is about you and your significant other, not for other people, not even the people online commenting and liking your social media posts. You only have your lover to impress! We're certain you know your future spouse the best an

at will make them feel the happiest. This is all about you and your future together!