Valentine’s Day Proposals – Romantic or Cliché?

Despite its strong associations with love and romance, did you know although 36% of the UK think Valentine’s Day is the most romantic day of the year to propose, only 8% of proposals in the UK take place on it?

Proposing on the most romantic day of the year can be controversial, with numerous studies finding that dates such as Christmas Day and New Year are more popular dates to pop the all-important question.

While some may see proposing on Valentine’s Day as sentimental and romantic, others may view the idea as unimaginative and cliché. So, which is it?  Is a Valentine’s Day proposal right for you and your partner? 

Sense and Sensibility 

The key thing to consider when deciding to propose on Valentine’s Day is how your partner feels about this specific holiday. 

You know them better than anyone, so you need to be confident that a Valentine’s Day proposal will be seen as a thoughtful gesture and not a cliché one. 

Is your partner a traditionalist when it comes to the holidays, or do they not typically care about them? On previous Valentine’s Days you have spent together, have you both gone all out for each other to celebrate, or do you as a couple prefer a more relaxed approach? 

This is a key consideration to come back to when picking whether a Valentine’s Day proposal is the best option. It may feel right for you, but if you have any doubts about how your partner will feel about a proposal on this holiday, then it may be best to choose an alternative date. 

It’s all in the planning 

Planning a proposal can be complex and often involves many moving parts – and choosing to combine this with one of the busiest romantic holidays of the year can be both a help – and a hindrance.  

Restaurants and venues tend to be extra busy on Valentine’s Day, with couples (and often groups of ‘galentines’ or friends without dates) out for a romantic meal, which means extra planning is needed to ensure you book the venue in plenty of time. Let the team on the ground know of your intentions so they can help set it up and ensure there is space to get down on one knee (if that is something you are keen to do.) 

Choosing a busy venue on Valentine’s Day makes any sort of proposal a public affair, so make sure this is something your partner is happy with. There is also a risk that someone else may have the same idea, which can make the occasion feel less special if your proposal is not the only one. Working with the staff can ensure this is managed well on the day by spacing out the tables and placing those who are proposing far apart. 

Nailing the proposal 

Even with the when and the where planned out, you still need to nail the proposal itself. If opting to do it on Valentine’s Day, it’s understandable there may also be a bit of extra pressure. 

Valentine’s Day is already steeped in tradition, and it can be expected that a proposal on this day should be traditional as well. That means getting down on one knee, bringing flowers (if you know your partner likes them), as well as any special gifts, including a ring to present to your partner. 

Other considerations include photography to capture the special moment, which adds to the romantic feel. If proposing on Valentine’s Day, you will likely need an extra pair of reliable hands or hire a professional photographer to ensure it is captured perfectly.  

A story to remember 

Despite added logistical challenges, proposing on Valentine’s Day is undoubtedly romantic and makes for a great story when people ask about how you and your partner got engaged, as well as great content when it comes to giving a speech at the eventual wedding.  

The traditionally romantic tone can continue into the big day, setting a scene and helping to create a theme for the wedding itself. That helps answer one of the many questions to ask a venue to ensure the day is as perfect as can be.

If you’re looking for wedding inspiration and a venue for a truly memorable occasion for you and your guests, look no further than the Royal Society of Chemistry at Burlington House – where traditional romance in a unique setting is always on the cards.

Click here for more information on our wedding offerings, or get in touch with a member of our experienced team.