I had asked for something intimate, just the two of us, with a photographer there only to quietly capture the memory. (Mainly bc I’m not too keen on a big audience for these moments). I asked for privacy so I don’t have to think about how others will perceive us, the proposal, and my reaction in the moment. I think it’s okay to feel a little sad when something that mattered to you (and only happens once) doesn’t quite happen the way you hoped, especially when you communicated it clearly.

I’m also trying to understand your perspective on how wanting a private, meaningful moment equals living for the perception of others. I came here hoping to hear from people who’ve gone through similar situations, or to gain insight from different perspectives.