How to Plan a Surprise Proposal – Tips from a Santa Barbara Engagement Photographer

1. Incorporate Your Partner’s Favorite Things

The first rule of planning a proposal? Make it personal. A memorable proposal reflects who your partner is and what they love.

If they’re not into sports, proposing on a Jumbotron at a baseball game may not be the best move. But if they’re a diehard Dodgers fan? That might be perfect.

Take a moment to jot down their favorite drinks, hobbies, pets, and places. Use those details to craft a proposal that feels like them. A few creative ideas:

• A custom coffee cup that says “Will you marry me?”
• A surprise setup at their favorite local spot
• Incorporating their favorite flower or pet into the moment

These small, personal touches add emotional weight—and make for incredible photos.

2. Talk to Their Friends

No one knows your partner better than their closest friends—and they’ve probably talked about their dream proposal at some point.

Friends can offer insight into:

• What kind of proposal they’d love (or hate)
• What ring styles they like
• Whether they’d want a big celebration after, or a more private moment

Bonus: their friends can also help with logistics like setting up the proposal space, distracting your partner, or helping them get ready (hello, manicure!).

3. Hire a Santa Barbara Engagement Photographer

Trust me—you won’t regret hiring a photographer. Capturing the proposal moment and a few photos afterward will be something you both treasure forever.

As a Santa Barbara engagement photographer, I specialize in surprise proposals and know how to stay hidden and blend in until just the right moment. I’ll capture not only the ask but also the reaction, the joy, and the celebration afterward.

Plus, your engagement photos will be ready to use for announcements, save-the-dates, and more.

4. Plan the Location with Your Photographer’s Help

Choosing the right location can be tricky—but you don’t have to do it alone. Your Santa Barbara engagement photographer (that’s me!) can help you select the perfect spot and lighting based on your vision and your partner’s personality.

Here are some of my favorite Santa Barbara proposal locations, categorized by vibe:

🌴 Beach: Miramar Beach

A charming beach lined with bungalows and palm trees. It has a secret garden path and golden hour magic.

🌾 Bluffs: Ellwood Preserve

Stunning ocean cliffs and wide open views. (Note: We’ll pick a backup spot in case there’s a micro-wedding that day.)

🌿 Park/Spanish Charm: Casa del Herrero

One-of-a-kind with historic gardens, tiled archways, and quiet elegance. (Entry fee required.)

🌳 Foothills: San Marcos Preserve

Features a majestic 300-year-old oak tree. Peaceful and breathtaking.

🏛️ Urban Landmark: Santa Barbara Courthouse

Iconic Spanish Colonial architecture, gardens, and a scenic clock tower.

⛰️ Adventure: Lizard’s Mouth

My husband proposed here! A short hike leads to epic rock formations and sweeping views of Santa Barbara and the Channel Islands.

Need help visualizing these? Check out my Proposal Location Guide →

5. What Happens After the Proposal?

Think about what your partner would want next. Would they prefer a quiet dinner with just the two of you—or a full-on celebration with friends and family?

If it’s the latter, enlist a few trusted friends to help you plan:

• A dinner reservation or home gathering
• Decorations, food, and drinks
• A second location reveal (bonus points if you bring your photographer to capture the reactions!)

If your partner prefers privacy, plan a cozy dinner or bring champagne to enjoy together right after the proposal—it’s the perfect way to let the moment soak in.

Bonus Tips from Your Santa Barbara Engagement Photographer:

• Scout the lighting: Golden hour (1–1.5 hours before sunset) is ideal for dreamy, flattering photos.
• Prep a backup plan: Especially for outdoor sessions—weather and crowds can change fast.
• Think through logistics: Who will bring the ring? Who’s setting up the flowers and champagne? Who’s in charge of keeping it a surprise?

Ready to Start Planning?

Proposals might not seem like they need a lot of planning—but trust me, a little intention goes a long way. With a little support, some creativity, and the right Santa Barbara engagement photographer by your side, you’ll create a moment you both remember forever.

📩 Click below to connect with me and start planning your surprise proposal!