thinking of proposing to your significant other in Glacier national park? Then, this is a must read.
Whether you are a local Montanan looking to propose at one of your local favorite spots, or if you are a visitor traveling in to see the beautiful Glacier National Park, this guide is for you.
1. Should i hire a local photographer?
You should definitely hire a local photographer. I promise you, they definitely wants a photographer for this moment. Your photographer will be your greatest resource in this whole process. I personally help my clients with the entire proposal planning process. This includes but is not limited to; prior coordination with location and time of day for the best lighting, ensuring I stay hidden during the moment so they are completely unaware that I am there, setting up decorations if you would like, bringing a bouquet of flowers to give them afterwards, and more. Click here for a testimonial from a real couple.
2. should i scout the location before i propose?
Yes, you should scout the location before you propose. If you are visiting the park and are not able to scout beforehand, this is where your photographer comes in. Hiring someone local ensures they know the area and can provide informed suggestions about location and time of day. You should also do a walkthrough of the location with your photographer beforehand if possible. Whether you are a Montana local with your favorite spot on Flathead Lake picked out, or you are a visitor looking to pop the question in one of the most beautiful national parks in the country, this is an important step to make sure everything goes smoothly. This will help to coordinate the spot for the best lighting, and for your photographer to be as hidden as possible. This ensures the moment isn't missed, and you don't have to focus on anything but the moment on the day of.
3. Should I tell her to wear white?
No, you should not try to get her to wear white. If you are wanting to maintain the element of surprise, and you don't normal make suggestions to what she wears, the quickest way to give away your plan is by dropping not so subtle hints about her outfit. Being in the moment is far more important than physical appearance. If you think she will care about her outfit in the moment, pack a bag to bring with you with a change of clothes. Click here for my outfit guide.
4. Should i suggest she get her nails done before proposing?
If they are not someone who gets their nails done regularly, you should not suggest they get a manicure leading up to the proposal. That will be a major giveaway to what is to come. Instead, put together a special care package for them with all of the proposal day essentials. Click here for ideas on what to put in their care package.
5. How do i keep from spoiling the surprise the day of?
Do not text anybody about the proposal on the day of. It's surprisingly easy to have a surprise spoiled by accidentally glancing at someone's phone, or having CarPlay read a text aloud. If people need your eta (photographer, friends, family, etc.) then just share your location with them.
Everyone loves receiving a surprise bouquet of flowers
Gorgeous bouquets created by Alpine Designs in Polson, MT.
What are the essentials i should pack for the proposal day care package?
You can include anything you want, and that your significant other might find important or meaningful. For this proposal pictured, he provided press on nails, a mini bottle of champagne, a champagne flute, comb, mirror, mascara, a few other assorted cosmetic items, and letters from each of their parents and his sister. He had me bring the bouquet of flowers. They were visiting Glacier National Park, and were spending the trip hiking, so he knew she likely wouldn't be all dressed up, but knew she would care to look nice for photos. To ensure the surprise wasn't spoiled, but that she also had what she needed, he put together this care package. Take this as inspiration to put something together for your significant other that they would enjoy, and find meaningful.
Bonus Tip: Relax, enjoy the moment, and don't let the nerves get to you. Also, have good posture when you get down on one knee. Your back should be straight, shoulders back, and both knees at 90 degree angles.
Testimonials
We found Bella online for my proposal on Flathead lake. She was super easy to work with, very responsive and communicative from first contacting with her to wrapping up the photoshoot. She ensured we both were on the same page for the plan, and she had great insight with positions and timing. My now fiance had some flight troubles which pushed back the proposal. Bella was more than happy to accommodate our needs last minute! After the proposal, she gave us time to embrace the moment as she took photos of the ring and the flower bouquet. During the photoshoot, she had great ideas and positions that fit our relationship and personalities which brought life to the photos. Getting the photos from her website was an easy process as well. Her years of experience definitely showed!!
Kate & Matt
Outfit Guide
I. Pick a theme
Have fun and get creative. Pick a theme that aligns with you and your S.O. Your outfits are a great way to showcase your personal style and interests. There are so many different routes you can go with. Here are some examples:
- western
- boho
- beach
- alternative
- romantic
II. Consider colors and prints
Different colors, prints, fabrics, cuts, and other details can complement or clash with your theme, skin tone, backdrop, and each other. Certain colors and busy prints can reflect weird on your skin tone or be distracting. It is recommended you stick with solids and neutral colors. However, I am not afraid of fun colors and prints. At the end of the day, I want you to feel like your most confident and comfortable self, and I want you to feel like your outfits reflect your personal style.
III. Consult your photographer
One of my favorite parts of photography is getting to exercise my creative muscle, not only with posing and editing, but also with styling my subjects, set design, and all of the things involved with planning a session. If you are wanting a little help or needing a little inspiration I would love to make you a mood board, chat with you to go over options and help style you both.
Let's plan this special moment together
Planning a surprise proposal in montana?
I specialize in capturing stories across Flathead Valley, Glacier National Park, and the wild beauty all across Montana.
Let's tell your story your way.
With timeless imagery and a personal touch, we'll make sure every moment is unforgettable.
