Paris sees boom in luxury marriage proposals for Valentine’s Day

Tourists from all over the world flock to Paris, France for elaborate Valentine’s Day proposals, with agencies reporting record bookings and luxury packages reaching up to €100,000.

A Texan man surprised his girlfriend with a tearful “yes” on a Paris terrace overlooking the Eiffel Tower this week, hiring a local proposal planning agency to create the perfect romantic scene. White roses, candles, and careful choreography marked the one-year anniversary moment for Josue Perales and Kayla Balboa.

Paris-based agencies report a surge in demand for such proposals ahead of Valentine’s Day, catering to couples willing to spend thousands for unforgettable experiences.

Les Entremetteuses, also known as “The Matchmakers,” coordinates hundreds of proposals annually, with founder Pauline Le Tendre describing Valentine’s Day as her “busiest day of the year.”

Packages at Les Entremetteuses start at €590 ($699) for a riverside proposal and rose petals, while more elaborate setups range from €1,500 to €2,000 ($1,779–$2,372). Some clients opt for additional services such as performers, champagne, and photography.

Luxury-focused agency Kiss Me in Paris offers highly choreographed proposals in top hotels, yachts, French chateaux, or full-day Paris experiences, with average spending of €10,000 ($11,861) and some clients paying up to €100,000 ($118,614).

Co-founder Cengiz Ozelsel said the prestige of a Parisian engagement appeals to couples seeking an “Instagrammable” moment.

Agencies report growing demand from international clients, particularly from English-speaking countries. Oui Love Paris, which focuses on budget-friendly proposals, has seen bookings quadruple since 2020.

Social media, popular shows like Emily in Paris, and global events such as the Paris 2024 Olympics have helped boost Paris’ reputation as a romantic destination.

For Perales, using local experts simplified logistics and reduced stress. “It was so much easier,” he said. Proposal planners say the work is emotionally rewarding, noting that couples invite them into some of their most intimate moments.

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“It’s really, really, really important that they walk away feeling like, ‘Oh my gosh, that was wonderful, that was amazing,’” said Ozelsel’s wife and co-founder Chantelle Marie Streete.

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