Gwen Stefani and Blake Shelton carefully choreographed their big reveal in Nashville.

We've learned Gwen and Blake appeared in public after the CMAs to show their mutual affection, and then made a beeline for the airport.

They were photographed holding hands in Nashville at 12:15 AM ... we've learned they got on a private jet and landed in L.A. at 4:00 AM PT.

We're told Gwen's plan was to accompany Blake to the Warner Bros. Music after-party and that's it ... but that was enough.

It was more than mission accomplished. They were received with open arms by everyone.