Guide for Surprise Proposal Photoshoot
VILLA SAN MICHELE
Welcome to your comprehensive guide for planning a surprise proposal photoshoot in Florence! This page will help you prepare for your big moment with practical advice and tips to ensure everything goes smoothly. From initial preparations to celebrating after the “Yes!”, you can find all details you might need.
TIMELINE & STEPS
I.
Flat Ring Box: Invest in a slim, flat ring box to keep the surprise intact. These are easier to carry and less likely to be discovered.
Communication: The best way of communication is through WhatsApp. It is widely used in Europe. Please download the app on your phone to allow quick communication.
Meaningful Speech: Prepare a heartfelt speech. Think about what you want to say to make this moment memorable and personal:
II.
Flights: Pack the ring in your carry-on bag. Keeping the ring in your pocket is not recommended during airport security. If you can, join a different airport security line than your partner.
Transportation: Never leave the ring in a car while you are parking even if the area looks safe.
Hotel: Use the safe of the hotel whenever you can.
III.
Bring the Ring: Double-check that you have the ring with you before heading to the proposal spot.
Bring your Phone: Make sure that you have coverage and network in case you need to reach me. My phone number is +393921444501.
Sunglasses: Bring sunglasses with you on hot sunny days so you can wear them if the sun is too strong to keep your eyes open.
Avoid Heavy Bags: Suggest leaving heavy or cumbersome bags behind to keep the moment stress-free and picturesque.
IV.
Engagement Photoshoot: The garden of the hotel is an ideal place for beautiful engagement photos where we can take some romantic pictures.
Celebrate: Plan a special celebration to continue the joy of the proposal. A romantic dinner in the restaurant is an unforgettable experience.
Sneak peek: Few days after the proposal expect an email with a link to download some of your beautiful moments. Please make sure to share your partner’s e-mail address with me so they can get it first hand.
DURING THE PROPOSAl
How to REACH the Location
During the booking process we already agreed on the date, starting time, package and payment mode, so please check your e-mail confirmation to find all of these details.
Villa San Michele is situated outside of Florence on the hills of Fiesole, allowing a perfect view over the city. Please make sure to carefully check how you can get there. Here are the following options:
Taxi: The best way to get there is by taxi. It usually takes no more than 20 minutes to reach it from the downtown. In peak season though it is not always easy to get a taxi so the best option is to get your hotel order you one.
Bus: Fiesole is available by bus from many areas of the city. The journey takes about 25 minutes but the timelines are not reliable. In case you prefer to take the bus you’ll need to leave with two buses earlier to be sure that you won’t be late due to a traffic delay. You’ll also need to buy a ticket in advance.
Uber: Even though the Uber app is available in Florence it does not work the same way as it is in other cities due to the restrictions in the downtown area. If you book an Uber you’ll get a professional private driver with a black minivan. The service is due to availability and in peek times you might need to wait a lot even after you get the confirmation.
Communication in case of delays Or Doubt
My phone number is +393921444501. Whatever circumstance arises please make sure to text me on WhatsApp.
How to find YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER AND the Proposal spot
When you reach the gate of Villa San Michele there is a narrow road leading to the entrance of the hotel. Alongside this road there is a small terrace with view on the right side which is ideal for the proposal. You’ll find me around there, waiting for you. I’ll try to act as a guest who is taking pictures of the view.
The Perfect Position and angle
IMPORTANT: When you take the spot please make sure that I’ll see both of you from the side, not from the back. Please also make sure before you go down on your knees that I’m there, ready with the camera in hand.
Going Down on One Knee
Position yourself so I have a clear side view. This angle captures the emotion on both your faces. It is important that I’ll see both of you from the side, not from the back.
Make the Speech
Your speech should be at least 60-120 seconds long. Take your time to express your feelings and intentions. This allows me enough time for capturing all emotions. People might pass there so the more time I have to take pictures of the big moment the better it is.
Live the Emotions
Don’t rush. Allow yourselves to be fully immersed in the moment. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so enjoy every second. Also, these genuine reactions are often the most beautiful on the pictures. After your partner said yes I’ll give you few minutes to live the emotions before I come to introduce myself. Then the rest we can discuss together.
Be flexible
By following these steps and tips, you’ll create a beautiful, memorable proposal experience in Florence. However, while planning is crucial it is also important to remember that sometimes things are not going exactly as we planned them and unexpected circumstances might arise. So it is important to relax, enjoy the moment, and let the magic of the place enhance your special day however it happens at the end.
MINDset tips
Enjoy the moment. Don’t stress about perfection — your genuine emotions will make the proposal special.
Allow yourself to feel and express your emotions freely. This authenticity will create unforgettable memories and beautiful photos.
Trust that everything will fall into place. Your calm demeanor will help your partner feel at ease.
Remember, this moment is about your love and commitment. Focus on each other and let the surroundings and photos be a beautiful backdrop to your special moment.
