Planning the perfect proposal can be stressful. With modern proposals becoming increasingly elaborate, the pressure is on to make yours stand out. However, considering all the details that go into these special moments, you probably overlooked one small element that can make a big difference: your lighting. After all, what’s the right ring and the right method without the right mood? However you plan to pop the question, these  lighting ideas will help you set the stage for a proposal story she’ll be telling friends and strangers for years to come.

Dim the Lights

There’s a reason upscale restaurants and lounges are dimly lit: low-level lighting is key to setting a romantic mood. It’s calming to the senses, easy on the eyes, and flattering to skin tones. Candles are a classic source of dim light, but if you’re worried about strong smells or messy wax, you could simply use your light dimmer switch. If you’re proposing in a room where a light dimmer switch is not already installed, try purchasing a plug-in dimmer switch for a floor or table lamp. Preparing an already dim room with flowers, candles and other props is one way to set the scene, but you could also leave the dimming part for right before you pop the question to really amp up the heat of the moment.

Create an Enchanting Backdrop

Hanging an icicle light curtain at the entrance to a gazebo or outdoor archway is sure to create an enchanting backdrop not only for the moment you propose, but for the photograph of her reaction. If you’re going with an indoor proposal, you could even hang the light curtains from a standard doorway or across a whole wall for a more dramatic effect. Be sure to complete the atmosphere with traditional Christmas lights to give your site an all-around glow!

Spell It Out

Not sure how to say the right words? No problem, spell them out instead. This is a great way to catch her off guard as there’s no need for a preamble leading up to the question. Imagine her surprise when she returns home to find your special message lighting up the foyer. By the time she realizes what’s happening, you’ll already be down on one knee with a ring in your hand. We recommend using tea light candles due to their shallow profiles – just don’t place them too close to walkways.

Be Creative

Let’s face it. This is one of the most important moments in your life. Are you really going to let it be generic? There are many ways you can use lighting to set the mood, such as lining a path in the woods to your proposal spot or setting up a candlelight dinner date. Remember: it’s about who you are and who she is.  So mix it up, add in different colors with rope light or use color changing LEDs. At the end of the day, you’re asking the girl of your dreams to be yours forever, so why not go all out?

  Can you think of other lighting suggestions for a perfect proposal? Let us know in the comments or give us a shout on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, or Pinterest!