Image via Wim Kantona
Proposals can be tricky things. They have a lot of layers. No doubt the most difficult aspect is deciding that the time is right to pop the question.
And once you’ve got that locked down, then you’ve got to start thinking about the ring. Do you go it alone and buy one? Or ask the question and allow your partner to choose their ideal ring? Tough call. But there’s one other thing on that all-important checklist that I’d like to cover this week: the proposal location.
It’s fair to say that it’s not as important as the ultimate decision or the ring selection, and for some, the choice to propose on a whim in the lounge room can be the right call.
There is no wrong way to propose, after all. But if you’re looking to go the extra mile for that story you can tell and retell for the rest of your lives, then finding a unique location can make all the difference.
For those of you lucky enough to be in one of the most liveable cities in the world, I’ve found some of the coolest locations to propose – guaranteed to help you craft a proposal story that you’ll enjoy telling long after you actually tie the knot. And if you don’t live in Melbourne, isn’t it time you paid us a visit?
Proposing over drinks
In a city famous for its cocktails, Eau de Vie is just about peerless. Virtually hidden down an innocuous alleyway in the CBD (because…Melbourne), this bar is straight out of 1920’s prohibition America era.
Order an amazing cocktail – I suggest something with flames or smoke – and just after the waiter puts your drinks down, get down on one knee and pop the question.
Uber cool points? Check. Epic memory made? Check. If you’re feeling super fancy, there’s a Whisky Room hidden behind a book case.
Proposing with a View
You may have heard of the Eureka Skydeck – it’s Melbourne’s tallest building after all, but did you know there is a restaurant on the 89th floor?
Eureka 89 is brimming with romantic sentiment. You’ll be blown away by the unparalleled views of Melbourne while tucking into some exquisite food. We recommend proposing after the mains but before dessert, it will make the end of the night that much sweeter.
Hot tip: Try and find out when sunset is and book your dinner reservation for that time. The sunset from the Eureka Tower is absolute perfection.
Image via Eureka 89
Proposing in nature
Confession time: I’m more than a little bit biased towards the Carlton Gardens. This is where I tied the knot with Mrs Houndstooth. You’ll come for the up close and personal look at the heritage-listed Royal Exhibition Building and the Victorian era Hochgurtel Fountain, but the picturesque green lawns hemmed in by giant oaks will keep you hanging around all day. Bring a picnic blanket and pull up a spot directly in front of the grand fountain – the perfect place to pop the question.
Image by Mr Houndstooth
Proposing to an arts lover
Many people will tell you Hosier lane in Melbourne is the place to go to soak in the city’s unique street art culture, but there’s another gem which is just as cool. Plus, if your partner appreciates music and art, you can’t go wrong with AC/DC Lane. Steeped in history and named after one of Australia’s biggest musical exports, AC/DC Lane is also dripping with uber cool street art.
Fair warning: This is an actual laneway, so if you’re going to pop the question here, there will be people everywhere and just like most Melbourne laneways, you have to take the grit with the gorgeous.
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bma6UDhljqc/?hl=en&taken-at=1003559742
Proposing like you’re in Pride and Prejudice
Don your finest duds and stroll the gardens at Rippon Lea house and gardens in Melbourne’s south east. You’ll be mesmerised by the large 19th century mansion surrounded by seven hectares of “Victorian pleasure gardens”. This is truly a unique venue for your proposal, the National Heritage Registered building is one of the most amazing examples of preserved suburban estate in the country. Now all you need to do is predict the Melbourne weather!
Other spots to check out: Albert Park Lake, St Kilda Pier, Transit Rooftop and Bar, Vue de Monde.
Ms Zebra Says: You’ve nailed the locations Mr Houndstooth! Although as you mention, there are SO many great spots in Melbourne that would be ideal for that special moment.
About the author Mr Houndstooth: I am a happily married man. I enjoy a fine whisky, a new suit and swashbuckling around town with my beautiful bride. Looking back on my wedding day always makes me smile, even though it began to rain just as I said ‘I do’.
Join the conversation