Welcome to the first instalment of our #OnceUponOurStories series, let’s talk about proposals! With Valentine’s Day on the horizon, Florida isn’t just for sandy beaches and endless sunshine – it’s a haven for unforgettable proposals! Whether you’re wooing in the tropics or popping the question under Disney fireworks, these tips from us and our community will make sure your proposal in Orlando is as magical as the Sunshine State itself.
Tip #1: In Front of Cinderella Castle
Proposing in front of Cinderella Castle at Walt Disney World Resort is the epitome of fairy-tale romance. Whether you choose to pop the question during the day with the castle sparkling in the sunlight or at night beneath a canopy of fireworks, this iconic spot guarantees a picture-perfect moment. For an extra touch of magic, visit any Guest Relations location within the parks and ask for a complimentary “Happily Ever After” button, which signifies your happy moment. Don’t forget to make the most of Memory Maker included in your tickets to snap some unique engagement pics!
‘Without me knowing, my husband-to-be spoke to a cast member before to get the photos and make it extra special. We even got pixie dusted too!’ Rachel Smith – engaged in 2015
‘We got engaged at the Walt and Mickey statue with the castle in the background as it was a bit quieter, I was so in the moment, it was perfect.’ Carrie-Ann Read – engaged in 2016
Tip #2: Get a ‘friend’ to help
Ever heard of dolphin-assisted proposals? At Discovery Cove, if you have a dolphin swim ticket, you can arrange some extra time and for your dolphin to deliver a message on a bouy to you. You can also then relax in the paradise surroundings with the all-inclusive drinks and food – celebratory cheers anyone?
“At the end of our swim, one of the trainers explained that someone got in our photos so we needed a few extra minutes. To [fiance’s] amazement, they asked us to play a game, so Cindy (our dolphin) swims off and brings us a ‘toy’ back (the bouy with the words “Will you Marry Me)” Ben Pelper – engaged in 2015
Tip #3: Inject your Passion into it
Are you both Star Wars fans? Maybe even space nuts? Orlando offers so many ways to curate your proposal to both your personalities. It’s the perfect way to make your shared passions part of your forever story.
“I’m a massive Star Wars fan and he proposed in front of the Millennium Falcon and I had no idea – it was perfect. We had a friend with us, who ran up to a professional photographer in advance and told her what was going to happen! They were amazing and there was even a moment Storm Troopers came over!” Ashley Soliday – engaged in 2019
Tip #4: One for the Potter Heads
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter has several standout locations for you to pop the question. From the dragon on top of Gringgots (imagine getting a photo just as he’s breathing fire!) to Hogwarts Castle and even on the Hogwarts Express using your park hopper ticket.
“We got engaged outside Hogwarts Castle at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, it was my DREAM proposal after being obsessed with Harry Potter for years now!” Liv Rowlands – engaged in 2021
Tip #5: Make It a Boating Adventure
Head out to Clearwater Beach and book a trip on the Sea Screamer, where you can witness dolphins in the wild – a magical moment in itself. But imagine elevating that magic by proposing! Just, maybe keep the ‘bending down on one knee part back until you’re back on dry land!
Tip #6: Go Up, Up and Away
Take your proposal to new heights – literally! Take a helicopter ride over Florida’s stunning coastline or theme parks – perfect for popping the question. For a slower assent, there’s always the option to propose at the top of the Orlando Eye, where the city lights or the golden hues of sunset create a spectacular backdrop for your unforgettable moment.
“I took my partner to Florida for the first time and she proposed to me on a helicopter, I said yes but only after saying “why do you want to me when you have a Tom Cruise lookalike flying the chopper”, I completely forgot he could here me as we had headphones on he just turned and smiled!” Gav Simms
Tip #7: For Years to Come
Now this isn’t so much a tip for proposing, but if Orlando has your heart and now a place in your family history… why stop there?
Orlando has so much to offer – including some great spots for weddings and anniversaries. Or you can retell your ‘Happy Ever After’ story to your kids and pass on that Orlando obsession to them!
Bonus tip: If you’re like Stuart Higgins and decide to leave the big moment until the evening “hold on to that ring TIGHT whilst on upside down on rollercoasters.”
Florida is full of magical opportunities for popping the question – whether you’re surrounded by natural beauty, theme park magic, or a little Florida wildlife. With these 7 tips, your proposal will be unforgettable, and your future fiancé will thank you for it (forever). Do you have a Florida proposal story? Share it in the comments!
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