Can a proposal still be a surprise if we have discussed marriage?
Yes. You can agree that you want to marry and still keep the date, setting, words, and celebration a surprise. Knowing your partner wants an engagement gives you a better foundation for planning a moment they will enjoy.
What can you discuss without revealing the plan?
Ask about ring preferences, public attention, photography, and whether family should be present. These answers reduce guesswork without telling your partner exactly when you will ask. You can even shop for a ring together and keep the proposal arrangements private.
How much secrecy is useful?
Keep only the details that make the experience enjoyable. A normal date invitation is often enough. Complicated cover stories can create stress, especially if they involve unexplained absences, fake arguments, or making your partner feel forgotten.
What if they work it out?
Let them enjoy the anticipation. You do not need to cancel a good plan because they suspect something. The words you choose and the time you spend together can still feel meaningful even when the broad outcome is expected.
What are people discussing on Reddit?
These related discussions inspired the topic. The answer above is original Proposal Tips guidance, not a quotation or a claim that Reddit users all agree.
A ring-size question leads to discussion of direct communication and keeping the date a surprise.
A discussion about planning decisions people would make differently.