For couples seeking a fairytale moment, a Parisian proposal planner can orchestrate elaborate scenarios, with the most extravagant package costing $15,000. Florian Perrault, owner of Paris Proposal Agency, facilitates these grand gestures, offering a range of services from intimate picnics by the Eiffel Tower to elaborate rooftop dinners.
Perrault's agency, which averages 30 proposals per month, caters primarily to an American clientele. "Ninety percent of them want the Eiffel Tower in the back," Perrault noted, adding that "big flowers and so many candles" are common requests. In contrast, the agency has never planned a proposal for a French couple, as they typically prefer less ostentatious displays.
Packages vary in price. A picnic with champagne, pastries, and a photographer near the Eiffel Tower costs €1,100, while a private boat cruise along the Seine with live music is priced at €1,790. A "MARRY ME" light-up letter display is available for €1,600. For an additional €300, clients can add a videographer to capture the moment with custom video reels.
One of the most popular offerings is a private rooftop dinner with panoramic city views, often accompanied by a love letter. The highest-priced proposal organized by Perrault involved a ballerina and violinist for a couple enjoying a private dinner with views of the Parisian skyline, totaling €15,000. While last-minute bookings are possible, Perrault advises clients to plan several months in advance, especially for arrangements like securing a ballerina.
Perrault, who previously worked at The Ritz in Paris for five years, emphasizes the importance of the visual aspect and aesthetic of a proposal, particularly for social media sharing. "The visual aspect and overall aesthetic of a proposal have become increasingly important," he stated. Despite the elaborate nature of his services, Perrault highlights that the moments are always filled with genuine emotion and create lasting memories. He estimates that about 50% of proposals are genuine surprises.
Perrault distinguishes his agency from less premium competitors, asserting, "Most proposal agencies are quite cheap, plastic flowers. We don't do that. In my agency, you will never see a plastic flower." He also acts as a butler during the events, managing logistics, champagne service, and floral arrangements. Additional "add-on" options include macarons and vintage French cars, further personalizing the luxury Parisian proposal experience.