Proposing is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, so you’ll want to make sure it’s the perfect moment that you and your intended spouse will cherish forever. While traditionally a private moment, it’s becoming a popular trend to propose with family and friends from both sides involved in creating and celebrating this special day with you. Many people find that doing this can make their proposal extra special and even more memorable (than we are sure it will already be!). If you’re planning to propose with the help of friends and family, here are our top tips to ensure it all goes smoothly…

Speak with their friends

Aside from scoping out your chances of receiving that big ‘yes’, your partner’s closest friends are the best place to start when planning to pop the question. Has she got a best friend that she has been dreaming about this day with since FOREVER? Would they like an extravagant display of affection, or would that make them feel pressured and uncomfortable? These are the people most likely to know just the type of proposal your loved one has been imagining.

Friends and family are also brilliant people to talk with when deciding on the ring. You may find that there is a treasured family heirloom that they'd love for you to use or know about any big no no’s ring design. In any case, consider the ethical background of the ring, as well as the style and size of the diamond or jewel.

Once you’ve decided on the all important ring, make a chat group with all the people you want involved on the day. Whilst everyone may be excited to give you plenty of ideas on how to WOW your partner, remember that ultimately it is up to you. You know them best, so use this opportunity to show that off.

Plan your photographer or videographer

As you’ll soon discover when you come to plan your wedding, good photographers and videographers are busy people. You’ll need to do your research and book early to ensure the best possible images of their yes face!

Whilst you may have at least one friend or family member volunteer to take this responsibility upon themselves, it's best to pay a professional. Afterall, they want to be able to enjoy the moment with you both, plus the standard of image from a smartphone is just never going to compare to that of a professional camera.

Make a day of it

Why not stretch your moment into an entire day filled with affection and mini surprises, leading up to the big question? There are ways to do this and still have a totally surprised other half at the pinnacle moment. Arranging to propose around their birthday or your anniversary is a great way to mask your intentions.

Have a friend take them to get pampered for the day in whatever style is their favourite, whether that's a salon to have nails done, a massage at the spa, doing a hobby they love or shopping for a new outfit. Then, have the friend bring them to you later in the day for the big moment.

Lean on their hobbies and interests

By now, you should have a fairly good grasp on the sort of things your partner is passionate about. But it’s always worth asking close friends and family members about their opinions too. Perhaps a particular hobby played an important role in their childhood, or they’ve always been interested in a subject from school. Take elements of the things they’re most passionate about and incorporate them into the proposal.

For example, if they have a love for sustainability and the natural world, consider how you can include eco-friendly elements into the proposal, that could also be brought into the wedding. For example, you could head to your favourite private spot in nature, and supply use natural, biodegradable confetti like flower petals. Especially if you are going to propose in a public space, you don't want to be littering any harmful materials into the environment, and adding special touches like this is a great way to make the big moment even more personal for you and your loved one.

However you decide to propose, enjoy the planning, the anticipation and every moment together thereafter. With your friends and family nearby, you're sure to create happy memories for everybody to cherish for years to come.