How to Plan the Perfect Chattanooga Proposal

Engagement season is officially here. October 1st- January 1st is the most popular time for engagements in Chattanooga. You may have noticed this trend on your social media feeds. Personally, my pages are explosions of romantic posts from old friends. They've taken the next big step in their relationship and they want to tell the world! This phenomenon isn't just a trend or a feeling. The stats are there. 32% of couples get engaged between October and December. There are a couple of reasons for this. Fall is a gorgeous time. In my opinion, it’s the happiest time of the year (sorry, Christmas!) The humid heat of Chattanooga summers vanishes and spirits are uplifted. I dig my softest clothes and blankets out of my closet and revel in the coziness. But overall… it’s freaking gorgeous. I’m so lucky to live somewhere as beautiful as Chattanooga. Its beauty is in full force during this time of year. For that reason, Fall makes for the BEST engagement photos. AND fall is just a stone’s throw from the holiday season. Where you’ll be able to gather with your family to celebrate and show off your ring.  

The holiday season is as popular as Autumn. Fall wins the Heart Pine Planning award for most inspiring natural beauty. But the holiday season wins the award for most inspiring man-made beauty. Homes are charmingly decorated. Downtown is strung up with sparkling lights. And scenic hot-spots like Rock City and Ruby Falls are made even more magical. Twinkling seasonal lights and hot cocoa are plentiful. Romance is in the air.

Future Grooms: It’s time to capitalize on that. It’s likely that your partner will take full swing of wedding planning. But engagement is all you. It may seem like it would be super easy. Nerve-wracking, sure… but easy, right? It’s not like planning a party…..right? Wrong. Planning a gorgeous proposal takes dedication.

But not to worry. Follow this easy guide to give your special person the proposal of their dreams.

1. Ask Permission From the Parents 

This may seem a little old school. But it’s a sign of respect to your partners family.  But most brides like it when their partners take this initiative. And when they find out you've appealed to their family… it’s swoon city! And the parents will revel in the excitement. They’ll love that they have a secret. And they’ll likely give some insight on how to propose. 

2. Talk to the BFFs 

While the family may have some good insight… it’s your bride’s friends who will REALLY know what she wants. Wondering whether your future fiance would prefer a public or private proposal? Indoors or outdoors? Traditional or creative? The friends will know. And if not… they’ll be able to initiate the conversation with your partner in a sneakier way than you.

Most importantly- LISTEN TO THEM. If they tell you do not have public dance-mob or baseball game billboard… listen to them. There is nothing like the deep bond between best friends. Your significant other may be your soul mate… but these pals know their soul deeply. And usually, they've known them for much longer than you! Ask their advice and absorb it like a sham-wow.

3.Hire a Photographer 

There is a recent trend here. Many couples are opting to hire a photographer and re-create your engagement. If this is your style... that's awesome! I'm a sucker for Instagram-worthy swoon shots. But truly you’ll never be able to recreate that exact moment. This is something you’ll be able to show to your future children and grandchildren (if that’s your scene! I don’t discriminate!). You’ll be able to hold this moment special in your heart. Sure, a friend or family member can hide and take some spy photos with their phone. But a photographer will know exactly how to create an amazing photo... while also not interrupting your sacred once-in-a-lifetime moment. 

4.Plan A Few Special Date Nights

I know you think you’re sneaky… but the odds are your significant other has some idea that you’re going to propose soon. Throw them off course. Don’t have it be TOTALLY out of character when you tell them to “Put on a nice outfit… because I’m taking you out for a date night”. Plan 3-4 date nights in the months leading up to your proposal.

5.Pick the engagement site

Is your s/o a nature lover? A foodie? Do they love trying new things? Are they someone who revels in tradition? Make sure to design your proposal around your personal style.  Here are a few of my favorite engagement sites in Chattanooga:

Snoopers Rock 

This is the ultimate engagement site for the classic Chattanooga outdoorsy babe. In my opinion, it’s the best view in town. And since it’s a bit of a drive into Prentice Cooper State Forest… it’s about 20 miles from downtown. For this reason, it’s typically much more private than other Chattanooga scenic overlooks like Signal Point.

Whiskey Thief 

Forget the pedestrian bridge— propose ABOVE the bridge. Whiskey Thief is located on the rooftop of the Edwin hotel. It has the most beautiful sunset view of the city. Their swanky cocktails and hors d’oeuvres make any special occasion feel truly spectacular.  

Rock City Christmas Lights 

The Enchanted Garden of Lights are open from. November 20th to January 2nd. Tickets are $25 for adults, but Rock City does not disappoint. They go all out on the lights. It truly feels like a different world.

Foster Falls 

Foster Falls is another amazing option for a nature-loving partner. The roaring falls in the ancient hemlock grove is unique beyond measure. As an added perk, hemlock trees are large enough for your photographer to easily hide behind.  

West Village Umbrella Alley 

It’s shocking to me how many Chattanoogans have never seen this spot! It’s a magical hidden alley, covered in umbrellas and dripping crystals. It’s gorgeous, secluded, and romantic. Plus Easy Bistro and Alimentari are right across the street. Dinner can be preceded by a private moment in the alley. 

Cravens House 

This is the best spot in town for viewing city lights. I love to take a picnic up to Craven's House at night and view the sea of lights beneath. It’s endlessly romantic. 

AMC

Wait… the movie theatre?! That’s right. The AMC’s in town are now allowing folks to rent out an entire theatre to yourself. That’s right. For $99 you can secure a private showing for you and your partner. I bet if you called them up ahead of time, they’d even project a special proposal message at the end of the movie for you. 

6.Don’t Forget The After Party

This doesn’t have to be anything crazy. But after you are officially engaged… you’re going to want to celebrate! Reserve a table at your favorite bar or restaurant. Invite your closest family and friends to celebrate with you. Surprise your S/O by walking through the door at your favorite spot, greeted by their joyous loved ones.

Have more questions? Feel free to reach out! It’s never too early to get the advice of an expert.