It is the Month of Love with Valentine’s Day upon our doorstep! And what better way to celebrate it then to reminisce about our most favourite February proposals across the country over the last few years!

Francois and Mauritz’s Hot Air Balloon Proposal

We loved doing this set up for Francois! He wanted an art gallery proposal where he and Mauritz could stumble upon a comic strip of the two of them showing Francois proposing – it was such fun working with our artist to design the picture. Then they both had always wanted to go Hot Air Ballooning but Mauritz was afraid of heights! So we brought the hot air balloons to them (without any of the fear 😊). Mauritz was so blown away when we unveiled the framed picture for them.

Masimba and Audrey’s Saxon Room Proposal

Masimba wanted to propose to the love of his life and he wanted it to be a complete surprise! So we set them up with a high tea at the Saxon and then secretly set up their beautiful room. Masimba didn’t want a Marry Me sign but rather a sign saying “60 Plus” indicating the number of years they will spend together – it made our hearts melt! We had a violinist playing their favourite song and a photographer capturing the whole thing. Audrey was SO surprised!

Aadil and Nikita’s Gorgeous Sunrise Beach Proposal

This one will always hold a special place in our hearts as it was such a beautiful morning on the beach. Aadil wanted a very quiet and romantic proposal for the gorgeous Nikita and so we recommended a small beach at sunrise. Nikita looked so beautiful in her white dress and they were so happy with their set up and the proposal.

Cris and Dominique’s Romantic Helicopter and Picnic Proposal

Cris wanted to blow Dominique off her feet and so we organised a private helicopter trip for the two them landing at a beautiful 5-star hotel in Muldersdrift. There, Dominique was blindfolded and we led her to a beautiful, private picnic set up in her favourite colours and flowers and a big sign saying “Marry Me’. Her absolute shocked reaction had us all in tears.

Sridhar and Tony’s Lion’s Head Hike Proposal

We loved this proposal as all our suppliers were so excited to be involved, even though it meant hiking up Lion’s Head early one (hot) morning! Our musician even carried his guitar up! Once at the top, we set up a Marry Me sign, the photographer got in place and our musician started playing and singing their favourite song. Tony reached the top first and was very confused at the large crowd that had formed. Sridhar followed shortly behind him and dropped to one knee to propose to Tony 😊

Photos by Leandrie du Plessis, Brightmoon Photography, Sian Owen Photography, Monica Stewart Photography and Photofuzion.

XOXO

The post Favourite “month of love” proposals appeared first on The Perfect Proposal.

We wrote this article below for The Little Pink Book, thank you for featuring us on your blog.

Unique Proposal Ideas from The Perfect Proposal

It’s the month of LOVE and how better to celebrate it than to propose to your partner! The Perfect Proposal specialises in event planning for marriage proposals and have done over 800 unique proposal ideas across South Africa – and the answer is always a resounding YES! Below are some unique proposal ideas to sweep your loved one off their feet – and if it seems too overwhelming to organise a proposal by yourself, then give them a call 😊

Art Gallery Proposal

Does your partner love art and all things sophisticated? Nothing will take them more by surprise then getting them all dressed up for an art gallery or a special art unveiling, and the art is actually a proposal! Art galleries are usually quiet and not too crowded so you won’t have too many onlookers. Arrange with the gallery beforehand to place a picture of the two of you, or a picture saying their name and “will you marry me” on an easel in a room in the gallery. As you approach it, you can drop to one knee in front of it- it makes for a great picture to be framed too!

Scavenger hunt

We love this proposal as it requires lots of thought and effort and will always make your partner feel truly special. You can lead them around the house to where you will be waiting for them on one knee with candles and fairy lights (and don’t forget their favourite flowers) or you can lead them around your town to finally meet you somewhere that means something to you both (back to the place of your first date perhaps). We recommend keeping the clues simple so that they don’t have to contact you to find out where to go next. It is also nice to include a photo, flower or memento with each clue.

Edible Proposal

What better way to propose than with something delicious, especially if it is your partner’s favourite! Be it cupcakes, donuts or chocolates – use them to spell out the big question. You can even plant the ring in its box in amongst the treats. Or wake up on a Saturday morning with breakfast in bed and a cup of coffee. Write “Will you marry me?” at the bottom of the coffee cup and watch their face as they take their last sip 😊

Movie Proposal

Does your partner have an all-time favourite movie or series? Recreate a scene from it for their dream proposal! From the iconic Friend’s theme song setting to the awesome and romantic UP movie (and all things Disney), it is easy to transport them to their much loved big screen place. They may even love the idea of Sweet Home Alabama’s proposal inside a jewellery store in which case we recommend heading back to the jewellery store where you picked out their ring to pop the question. If they love all movies in general, then set up your garden with a projector and turn it into a romantic, blanket-filled outdoor cinema to propose in.

Binocs in the Bush

There is something so romantic about the African bushveld. Nowadays 5-star treatment doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg and a weekend away to propose under the stars is such a great idea if your partner loves the outdoors. You will need to get creative for this one and make a giant MARRY ME sign (A1 white card for each letter works well). Work closely with the lodge and arrange for them to put the letters up somewhere that your partner will be able to see them with binoculars from the deck of your lodge or room. Then you can jump up from lounging by the pool to shout that you have seen a lion! Hand them the binoculars, point them in the direction of the sign and get down on one knee. Celebrate your engagement with a romantic outdoor dinner for two.

Beach Proposal

There is something so romantic about the sun, sea and sand. The ideas for a beach proposal are endless with a beautiful picnic set up for two, a romantic stop along a beach walk or saying it with an awesome sand sculpture.

Helicopter Proposal 

While certain provinces don’t have a beach, it does have an awesome cityscape and some wide open, mountainous spaces. If your partner loves a thrill, then why not propose at 10 000ft above the ground before landing for a romantic picnic or a glass of bubbly on top of a mountain?

Family Proposal 

Make it a family affair and get the whole family involved! If your partner is close to their family or your friends are just dying to witness the proposal, then we recommend including them in the big moment. If they are great dancers, convince them to even be part of a family flash mob 😊A family member can either hold a letter each or a full word. Make sure you have someone to capture the moment too.

https://pink-book.co.za/wedding-inspiration/unique-proposal-ideas-for-the-month-of-love/

XOXO

The post Unique proposal ideas appeared first on The Perfect Proposal.

All the way from Namibia, Aron had planned a trip to Cape Town for 10 days. In that time he wanted to pop the question to his girlfriend. They met at a party and exchanged numbers. They have been together ever since… 3 years and counting.

He had loads of great ideas for the proposal but needed our help to fine tune them. The first idea was Table Mountain but soon decided the weather was too risky and it might have been very busy due to Valentine’s Day. He also thought of helicopters and landing on a mountain but its not always possible. He wanted something outdoors and private, we told him about Cape Point Vineyards private deck and he just loved the idea. The deck is high up in the mountains, private and over looks the ocean and vineyards. They love picnic’s together on date nights so we added in a picnic dinner for them. Aron wanted a bottle of Moet as his bottle of bubbly because they both love it so much. We stayed with the relaxed picnic themed proposal for these two love birds.

We arrived for set-up on the day after having 2 other functions before Aron’s. Valentine’s day is always a busy time of year for us. They were so lucky with the weather as it had been raining a little in the morning but cleared up after 11am. We decorated the deck with green hearts as Raina’s favorite colour is green. We brought some flowers and petals to keep with the nature theme. On arrival at the deck, Aron proposed to his lovely wife to be… she said yes! Lesley, the photographer captured the whole proposal on film. We just love the pictures!

They stayed at the deck until sunset and enjoyed the beautiful views. Popping the Moet champagne and celebrating these happy moments is what life is all about. We wish them all the best on this happy journey together. Aron and Raina Proposal on Valentines day was very special for all involved.

Photo’s by Photofuzion

XOXO

The post Aron and Raina Proposal on Valentines day appeared first on The Perfect Proposal.

Here are some Romantic ideas to do at home this Valentines Day. They are easy to do and arrange without breaking the bank. If you decide you need more assistance when please give us a call to discuss some options. We have many last minute ideas up our sleeves…

DID YOU KNOW:

“Richard Cadbury from the Cadbury chocolates family is responsible for starting the trend of giving chocolates on Valentine’s Day. In 1868 he gave chocolates to his ‘love’ in a heart shaped box. Richard recognized a great marketing opportunity for the new chocolates and started selling them in beautifully decorated boxes that he himself designed.

From that point, it was a quick jump to taking the familiar images of Cupids and roses and putting them on heart-shaped boxes. While Richard Cadbury didn’t actually patent the heart-shaped box, it’s widely believed that he was the first to produce one. Cadbury marketed the boxes as having a dual purpose: When the chocolates had all been eaten, the box itself was so pretty that it could be used again and again to store mementos, from locks of hair to love letters. The boxes grew increasingly elaborate until the outbreak of World War II, when sugar was rationed and Valentine’s Day celebrations were scaled down. But Victorian-era Cadbury boxes still exist, and many are treasured family heirlooms or valuable items prized by collectors.”

Thanks to Terrys Fabrics for this cute infographic about ‘Romantic ideas to do at home this Valentines Day’. We hope you have thought of a lovely plan to spoil the one you love.

XOXO

The post Romantic ideas to do at home this Valentines Day appeared first on The Perfect Proposal.

We have found some unique ‘date night’ ideas to spend the day and weekend together.

Old Mutual Music at the Lake Valentine’s Open Air Cinema

Spoil your loved one with a night under the stars at Durban’s Botanical Gardens. Pack a picnic filled with her favourite foods and treats, & enjoy the evening listening to music and watching a movie. No doubt it will be a romantic comedy so pack tissues!

Tickets can be purchased on Webtickets

Markets

There are so many incredible markets that have popped up, why not take your special someone out for a morning at a market. Browse the stalls together, grab a delicious breakfast, fill baskets with fresh produce & decadent treats to take home and enjoy.

• Shongweni Farmers Market, Shongweni. Every Saturday from 6-10:30
• Karkloof Farmers Market, Howick. Every Saturday from 7-11
• I Heart Market, Durban. 6^th Feb from 9-2
• The Litchi Orchard, Saturday 13^th Feb, 9 -1

Valentines day couples cooking class

Book a cooking class for two as a fun night out doing something different together.  Look at Gecko cooking school. They are offering a Valentine’s Day cooking class for couples in the evening on Saturday 13th February. Bring along someone special to cook that gourmet meal together.

Romantic weekend away

Nothing beats a night away together, a moment to get away from everyday life to spend some quality time together. Book a night away at one of the Natal Midlands fantastic spa hotels. Add in an afternoon of pampering for an extra special treat.

Fordoun Hotel & Spa is running the perfect romantic weekend for two special.

Dinner & Dancing

For a really special night out, head to The Oyster Box Hotel for a six course meal, live music and a night of dancing.

Popping the question on Valentine’s day?

Need assistance planning the perfect Valentine’s proposal? Get in touch! We have so many ideas up our sleeves…

XOXO

The post Valentines Day in KZN appeared first on The Perfect Proposal.

Grazia – Do’s & Don’ts for Valentine’s Day! We were asked to write about it…

Read all about it online http://www.graziadaily.co.za/grazialifestyle/from-the-expert-valentines-day-dos-and-donts/ or below!

“We chatted to Philippa Stewart, owner of The Perfect Proposal, to share the dos and don’ts of Valentine’s Day!

Tell us what you love about Valentines Day?

Valentine’s day gives you an excuse to celebrate the one that you love. Although you have 364 days of the year to do so, it’s the one- day you can make an extra effort, arrange a special date, get creative and make memories. We love that you don’t have to make things about how much you spend or which restaurant you dined at. Rather, it’s about taking time out of your busy schedule to enjoy each other’s company.

What is the perfect gift for a girl to receive on Valentines Day?

Chocolates and flowers are a “I didn’t give this much thought” kind of a Valentine’s Day gift. Try doing something sentimental or special for her. Put thought into her gift, it shows. A woman appreciates you expressing your feelings, so don’t forget the card. Do something unexpected – use what you know she loves to create the perfect evening, adventure or day.

Can you give us some gift ideas to give our boyfriends?

• Bjorn Borg is launching in South Africa this February at selected Stuttafords stores! You will find really amazing underwear that is trendy, is amazing quality and usually fits very well. Follow @bjornborgsa on Twitter for updates.

• We’re huge fans of online Men’s Style destination, Mr Porter. Order his V-day gifts online at Mrporter.com. Explore the grooming and gifts section. It’s a goodie.

• For the tech savvy: Heard of the Samsung Galaxy NX? If your guy’s into social media, photo editing and an Insta addict – he will love this (and so will you). The Galaxy NX is an android powered, interchangeable lens camera with a 20-megapixel sensor. You can access smartphone apps and features a built-in wi-fi and 3G radio so your pics can be shot, edited and uploaded as quick as you can say snap.

• For the guy who loves Porsche: So you can’t exactly afford to buy him the 911 Carrera but have you seen the Porsche Design SA collection? Fashion, sport, watches, luggage, shoes, eyewear and even technology all in modern designs, high-end luxury (obviously, people, it’s Porsche). We’re obsessed with the Men’s French classic tote. Visit the Porsche Design SA store in Hyde Park or shop online at Internationalfashion.co.za at 40 percent less and free delivery for anywhere in South Africa.

• Get him wheels: If he’s in the market for a bike – the Dahon folding bike is super cool. Browse for the right bike at Dahonbikers.co.za

• For the guy who loves fine wine or craft beer: Create a special evening of wine tasting (or craft beer tasting) for him to enjoy. Go for a bottle of white, a bottle of red and a dessert wine then pair each with a food that complements the wine (either speak to a sommelier or do your research online before deciding on which food goes best with the wine). Create a beautiful table setting with subtle touches. Get your decor from online store Ingoodcompany.co.za.

• 250gram is a social media printing service that we love! Go online at 250gram.co.za and login to your Instagram account, select the pics that you love of you and your better half or pics that you know he will love and just like that, your Instagram snaps are printed in beautiful Polaroid print outs and delivered to your door. How cute is that?

Are there any big trends this year for Valentines Day?

1. The great outdoors: cycling, picnics, anything outside is on the up! A picnic is an affordable and romantic option for lovers.

2. Pretty decor – Radiant orchid is Pantone’s 2014 colour and hues of pink are also predominant. Keep this in mind when buying or ordering your packaging and stationary or even decor for Valentine’s Day.

3. In the world of lifestyle trends, infused ice cubes and craft cocktails are big this season…

4. We’re shifting to a visual vocabulary that relies on photos, imagery and visual beauty supplementing text so welcome the year of visual – capture your day in Polaroids, social media platforms and embrace videos that document your love.

Do you embrace red for the day of love or do you think people should stay clear of the usual conventions?

We are seeing a lot of pink, lavender, mint, navy and gold as popular colours for 2014. Using subtle hints of pink is always great – pink roses, pink ribbons, and pink accessories. Pink works well with mint, grey and gold. If you want to go classic, then black and red are always timeless.

Can you tell us about the best Valentines Day date you have ever planned?

The Perfect Proposal is all about original content and innovative ideas for romantic occasions so we plan Valentine’s Day to suit the couple, their loves and their vision and then add our expertise. A beautiful idea is to create your own chocolate or sweet “pop-up shop” containing all her favourite sweet treats. We find the venue, transform the space and create your own romantic candy shop, filling the space with her favourite flowers and scented candles along with a soundtrack.

If all else fails, then… drink champagne with the girls.

*Need help? The Perfect Proposal can make it happen: take a look at The Perfect Proposal packages for date planning, romantic events and tailor-made packages designed to suit the couple”

XOXO

The post Grazia – Do’s & Don’ts for Valentine’s Day appeared first on The Perfect Proposal.

We hope you are spoilt rotten but also spoil the one you love!

As tradition goes many will spoil their loved ones with gifts and romantic gestures or proclaim their undying love as a secret admirer.

Valentine’s Day has been around for centuries, and created by the mysterious St. Valentine during the 3rd century A.D in Rome.

Interesting Fact: Approximately 150 million Valentine’s Day cards are exchanged annually, making Valentine’s Day the second most popular card-sending holiday after Christmas.

Why not make these delicious chocolate tarts for dessert tonight to spoil the one you adore and all it takes is 30mins!

INGREDIENTS

• 200g plain chocolate , melted
• 50g plain flour
• 500g shortcrust pastry pack , rolled out to the thickness of a 20p piece and used to line 4 x 10cm tart tins
• 4 eggs
• coco & icing sugar for dusting
• 75g butter , melted
• 100g golden caster sugar

METHOD

Heat the oven to 180 degrees

Bake the pastry blind for 12 minutes

Mix 3/4 of the melted chocolate with the eggs, butter, sugar and flour

Pour into the pastry cases

Bake for 6-8 minutes until just set

Decorate with the remaining chocolate and dust with cocoa

Add the heart by using icing sugar

Enjoy!

XOXO

The post Chocolate Tart Recipe for Valentines Day appeared first on The Perfect Proposal.