Summer Parties with a Secret: Garden Proposals in Disguise

What better way to connect with loved ones than an energized summer party? Get the BBQ going, invite everyone, and argue over whose Spotify playlist is played. Perhaps you could even rent a hot tub…

Yet, amongst all this excitement, there’s a bigger plan in motion. A garden party is the perfect opportunity for a proposal in disguise. For anyone who wants their friends and family present, it makes for one of the sweetest possible proposal stories. Here are some possible party ideas.

Garden “Game Night” Party

Fun and games? That sounds like a sociable event to us. Playful and extroverted couples will thrive in this setting, and activities like giant Jenga or croquet are easy to prepare.

If you’re feeling extra savvy, lean into total gamemaster mode and create a custom “final round” game where your partner is rigged to win. The grand reveal could involve a ring box as a prize or a “will you marry me” message. You could even get it printed on a game card.

Sunset Picnic Festival

Festivals are perfect for summery nights and light evenings. If your partner is more lowkey, then a chilled-out picnic might be more their thing. Host your own, with picnic baskets and comfortable outdoor seating. You could even invest in fairy lights or live music.

As sunset hits? Pop the question. You could even hide it in a miniature picnic basket or on a final course, like dessert or a fancy drink.

Secret Garden Movie Night

Most people love a cinema experience, but an outdoor movie screening is just so much more special. Set up an outdoor screen with blankets and snacks, and invite your loved ones (or just the two of you).

There’s the chance to be really creative here, too. Perhaps you could prepare a fake trailer with a video montage of all your favorite memories? At the end, present your thoughtfully selected engagement ring.

Tropical Luau Garden Party

A tropical luau is a romantic and cultured theme for a garden party. If your partner loves color and tropical aesthetics, why not lean into this? It’s a great idea for those based in Hawaii or who aren’t able to plan a proposal abroad. Think fruity cocktails, hula dancing, and Tiki torches.

One option is to organize a Lei Ceremony — just brush up on Lei etiquette beforehand. Explain the cultural significance of the flowered necklaces to your guests, handing one out to each person, before giving your partner a special one. You could attach the ring to the flowers or a note directing them to the proposal spot.

Garden proposals don’t have to feel simple and understated. With the right preparation, the sky is your limit.