Many of the proposals we plan for international couples are organised by someone who has never set foot in Kusadasi. They’re booking a holiday from London, Berlin, Dublin or Amsterdam, they’ve found us online, and they’re trying to organise the biggest moment of their relationship by WhatsApp, often while hiding their phone from the person they’re about to propose to.
It works far better than people expect. Here’s how it usually goes, step by step, so you know what to expect.
Step 1: The first message
You don’t need a plan before you write to us. The most useful things to send are simple:
- Your travel dates, and roughly where you’re staying.
- Whether your partner would love a big moment or would hate an audience. This matters more than anything else.
- Any photos or ideas you’ve saved, even if they’re from somewhere else entirely.
- Anything we should avoid. Allergies, a fear of boats, no balloons, whatever it is.
From that, we’ll suggest a couple of options that fit. You don’t have to choose from a fixed menu.
Step 2: Picking the day
Our honest advice is don’t plan it for your first evening. You’ll be tired from travelling, you may not have your bearings yet, and if the weather turns there’s no room to move it. Two or three days into the trip is ideal. You’ve settled in, and there are still days left to celebrate afterwards.
We always keep a backup plan in mind, whether that’s another evening or an indoor alternative, in case of strong wind or rain.
Step 3: The cover story
This is the part people worry about most, and it’s simpler than it seems. The best cover stories are boring:
- “I’ve booked us a table for sunset.”
- “The hotel recommended a walk down to the beach before dinner.”
- “Let’s go and take some photos while the light’s nice.”
The last one is handy because it gives your partner a reason to dress up a little without asking why. Avoid anything too elaborate. The more complicated the story, the more questions it invites.
Step 4: On the day
You don’t need to do anything except turn up at the right time. While you’re having lunch or getting ready, the team builds the setup: sign, flowers, lanterns, carpet, whatever we agreed. You’ll get photos on WhatsApp as it comes together, so you know it’s ready. If you’ve booked a photographer, they’ll be in position before you arrive, out of sight.
We’ll also agree a simple signal in advance, so you know when it’s time to walk towards it. Then the rest is up to you.
Step 5: After the “yes”
This is the bit that’s easy to forget when you’re planning. Most people want a few minutes alone first, then the photos, then something to celebrate with. A table for dinner right there, or a short walk to a restaurant, makes the evening feel complete rather than ending abruptly. If you’d like family on a video call at that point, tell us beforehand and we’ll make sure there’s signal and someone holding the phone steady.
Questions people usually ask us
How far in advance should I get in touch?
A few weeks is comfortable. In the busy summer months, earlier is better, especially if you want a particular date. Short-notice requests are sometimes possible too, so ask even if your trip is close.
Do you speak English?
Yes, the whole planning process can be in English, and we work with couples from abroad all the time.
What if my partner suspects something?
It happens more often than you’d think, and it almost never spoils the moment. Suspecting and actually seeing it are two very different things.
Can you help with the ring?
The ring is yours to bring. If you’re worried about it being found in your bag, tell us and we’ll work out a way to get it into your hands at the right moment.
If you’re planning one from home right now, take a look at our surprise proposal page or our guide to where to propose in Kusadasi, then send us a message. Tell us about the two of you, and we’ll take it from there.
