Marriage proposal ideas.

Unique proposal ideas that will inspire you to create your perfect marriage proposal.

 

Marriage proposal ideas!  Our readers proposal ideas are updated to this section.  Please add your creative proposal idea.

 

Marriage Proposal ideas by category:

 

At Home Proposal Ideas

Beach Proposal Ideas

DIY Proposal Ideas

Public Proposal Ideas

Spring Proposal Ideas

Winter Proposal Ideas

Vacation Proposal Ideas

Valentines Day Proposal Ideas

Quick Links to Specific Cities Proposal Locations and Ideas

 

Alberta Proposal Locations

Albuquerque Proposal Locations

Atlanta Proposal Locations

Calgary Proposal Locations

Central Florida Proposal Locations

Cambridge UK Proposal Locations

Charleston Proposal Locations

Dublin Proposal Location

Edmonton Proposal Locations

London Proposal Location

Miami Proposal Locations

Memphis Proposal Locations

Omaha Proposal Locations

Tampa/St Petersburg Proposal Locations

 

Marriage Proposal Ideas: #1 Propose at a famously romantic place on a vacation.   A vacation in itself is a special occasion so adding a proposal just makes it a moment that she will never forget.  When going on your vacation research the spot in the location that may be the most romantic setting.   While cliché, when I proposed in Paris in-front of the Eiffel it could not have been more perfect.

Marriage Proposal Ideas: #2 A red ribbon to forever: This proposal idea allows you to take your partner on a journey through the happiest moments in your relationship.Your partner wakes up in the morning to a surprise: there is a sign at the end of the bed telling her to follow the red ribbon that leads out of the room. As she follows the ribbon, there will be pictures attached to it, each showing a special moment through out your history together.

Depending on your home and its surroundings, you can have this ribbon go out the front door. Have the journey wind through a long trail to make the anticipation even greater.

When she gets to the end of the ribbon, you will be waiting to create the next big moment in your lives together — your proposal.   Red ribbon selection on Amazon

You can add some extra wow factor at the end of the ribbon:

  • Have hundreds of roses surround your proposal location.
  • Hire a band or choir to provide beautiful background music.
  • Higher a photographer or videographer to capture the moment.
  • To complement the photographer, you can have a hair and make-up artist waiting for your partner at the beginning of the ribbon.   This addition can allow her to look her best for the big moment.
  • You can also provide an outfit for her to wear so she is not proposed to in her pajamas.

The above ideas of live music, roses and photographer/videographer can be great additions to all of the proposal ideas below as well.

Marriage Proposal Ideas: #3 Restaurants are romantic, but a cooking class proposal is unique:  A restaurant is always a classic proposal location, but here is a unique proposal idea.If your partner is already a culinary type, arrange an intimate cooking class. Important: this is not a good idea if your partner does not like to cook.

There are two options: a private cooking class or taking the class with friends.   Play it off as though your friends suggested it — that way she does not become suspicious. This will eliminate the amount of strangers that will be around, and you can also have them in on the proposal plan.

Make sure to speak to the chef prior to coordinate the big moment. The dessert course may be the sweetest moment to pop the question. Just don’t put the ring inside the dessert — that’s cliché and dangerous.  Look for local cooking classes Search for cooking classes on Groupon

Marriage Proposal Ideas: #4 An Extreme Proposal: If you and your partner are into adrenaline rushes, why not take your proposal to 12,000 feet? A skydiving proposal will make her heart pound in more than one way.

Ski Divinng Marriage proposal

Book a sky diving adventure for your and your partner. Contact the sky diving company beforehand to make the special arrangements so they know what is going on. You will need to find out the exact location of where you will be landing.

This will require some help from friends. Coordinate with them the timing of the jump.   As the plane climbs, they will write your partners name and “Will you marry me?” on the ground.

I recommend buying tarps and cutting them into large letters. This will make it easy for your friends to not misspell anything and have it written before you get to the ground. You should also scout the landing location prior to buying the tarps.   A certain tarp color like white vs. black may be more legible from above. Tarps on Amazon

Once you both have your feet safely on the ground, get down on one knee.   Look for local ski diving deals Search sky diving on Groupon

To shop for marriage proposal accessories up to 50% off!  This includes engagement rings, candles, signs, ring boxes, and anything you may need during your proposal. Please visit our trusted partner Amazon

Reader Marriage Proposal Ideas:  #5 The element of surprise is always a nice touch to a marriage proposal – add in any statement that will make your partner feel special and that you have thought about it and tried to impress them with your efforts. And whola – you create another lasting memory in your relationship. –  Jewel de Jager

Marriage Proposal Ideas: #6 Embrace the winter season with a snowy marriage proposal: It may be cold outside but your marriage proposal will warm her up. It is tradition to give your partner red roses on Valentine’s Day so use this inspiration for any day in the season. Imagine red rose petals lying on pure white snow spelling out, “Will you marry me?” The contrast of color will make your proposal pop.

But how do you know there will be snow during your proposal day?   If you don’t live in a place where snow is guaranteed this time of year, a winter getaway to a ski lodge or snowy resort can be the solution.

Contact the resort prior to booking and tell them your marriage proposal idea. Make sure the resort you book can recommend a location where you can write with rose petals. See if they offer any romantic tours or services like a horse drawn sleigh you can incorporate into your proposal.

Imagine being on top of a snow-covered mountain.   As she looks out at the view on the white slope, she sees the question written in rose petals below, and it takes her breath away.  Check out our trusted travel partners for winter getaway deals.  Savings on marriage proposal travel.

how to propose in the winter

Marriage Proposal Ideas: #8 A nighttime proposal lit by hundreds of candles: Find a location that you can plan a romantic marriage proposal at night, and consider somewhere with a spectacular evening view.   This can be the moon reflecting off the ocean, a dazzling cityscape, or even just a great place to see the stars in the sky.

You may want to enlist some trusted friends to help you set up and light up your proposal.   Make sure to get candles that are resistant to wind. Imitation candles will have the same effect without the risk of a windy night.

marrige proposal ideas

You can take her out to a nice dinner at a restaurant near your marriage proposal location. After a great meal, you tell her you would like to take a walk.   You will have planned the exact path of your walk.   As you round a corner, she starts to see the lights of the candles.

You will have created a path of candles that will end with hundreds of candles spelling out, “Will you marry me?”

The love you share will light up the night when she says, “Yes!”

Shop flame-less candles Flame-less Candles

Marriage Proposal Ideas: #9 A musical marriage proposal: Adding background music to a marriage proposal can really set the mood. Find a band or even a choir that you can hire to play your special song.

The setting can be anywhere you will be able to fit the band or choir. This can turn a normal restaurant date into a unique private concert proposal.

As the meal is ending and dessert has been finished, she thinks it was just another date.  All of a sudden, “your” song starts to play. The band or choir comes from the back and surrounds your table, serenading her as you pop the question.

Coordinating this with your marriage proposal location will be key to keeping the musical surprise hidden. The proposal will be music to her ears.

Marriage Proposal Ideas; #10 Sail into the sunset with a picturesque marriage proposal: Want to include beautiful scenery to complement your proposal? Imagine the peaceful sound of waves as the sun begins to set, producing a soft reflection over the water. As the ship moves towards what seems to be a never-ending sunset, you get down on one knee.

There is always something timelessly romantic about a sailboat. This can be a unique and unexpected proposal location.

Before you choose this marriage proposal idea, be sure she is not prone to seasickness.   Find a local sailing charter that offers sunset sails. If the boat does not offer a meal and champagne, make sure to pack your own.   Check the exact time of sunset on the 14th, to be sure to drop to one knee at the most picturesque time.

This special yet classic proposal will have you sailing towards happily ever after.

Search for local sailing deals on Groupon

propose on a sailboat

Beach proposal ideas:

Beach proposal ideas – A beach is a beautiful setting for a marriage proposal.   You have decided a beach proposal is your location. Now you need a unique marriage proposal idea that will compliment the ocean view.   This article will outline numerous beach proposal ideas so when you ask your love to marry you it will be unforgettable.

Beach proposal ideas – Treasure map marriage proposal:

If your partner is into adventure, history or just loves The Pirates of The Caribbean movies this can be a unique proposal idea.

Additional people needed for the proposal: Yes, you will want to have someone you trust watch the location of the engagement ring (treasure chest.) That person will make sure no one else besides your fiancée digs it up.  You may also need a 2nd person to deliver the map if you want to be creative with that aspect as well.

This beach proposal idea will require a scouting visit to the ocean. If you are travel to your destination you will need to find at least one day prior to scout. This scouting trip is where you will decide to bury your treasure.

I recommend scouting the beach in the middle of the day if possible so you can pick a nice location. The marriage proposal location should not be where a lot of people will be sun bathing. Consider the high tide. Make sure where you will be burying your engagement ring is high enough on the beach that it won’t be underwater.

During the actual proposal you may want to do it at sunset. Sunset would likely make a more intimate setting with fewer people around. Sunset over the ocean is also a beautiful background for your beach proposal. Link for local sunset times.

Next draw your map with an X marks the spot. It will be up to you if you want this to be a long journey or a short adventure. Use landmarks on the beach to make it easy enough to follow.

An hour or so before you plan on taking your partner to the beach for the marriage proposal enlist your friend’s help. Have your friend bury the engagement ring inside the treasure chest. Make sure your friend does not bury it too deep.   You do not want your partner breaking a serious sweat digging.  Have them mark the spot with an X using rocks, sticks, or even flowers to make it more romantic.

This trusted friend better guard the location with their life!   You should coordinate with your friend the exact direction you will be coming from.

Once you are getting close your friend will back away from the location. They will leave the shovel so your partner has something to dig up their treasure. Still keeping a close eye to make sure no other pirate comes by with a metal detector.

How you deliver the map to her can also be done in a creative way.   One idea is ask her to go for a walk on the beach.   On your walk you find a bottle with a message in it.   That message is a map to her beach marriage proposal.

The dropping of the bottle with the map will have to be coordinated with a second friend. That friend will have to be waiting on the beach. They will know the direction you and your partner will be walking from.   As they see you coming they will plant the bottle. Make sure the bottle is high enough up on the beach that a wave does not wash it away.

Once your partner follows the map, finds the X and digs up her buried treasure.   You are down on one knee asking her to be your pirate bride.

Beach proposal ideas accessories needed: Amazon Links showing examples of each item.

 

beach proposal ideas, unique proposal ideas, marriage proposal ideas

Beach proposal ideas – Metal detector proposal:

If your partner likes adventure and TV shows about treasure hunting, but you want to keep it less pirate theme. A metal detector treasure hunt may be more your speed.

Additional people needed for the proposal: Yes, you will want to have someone you trust watch the location of the engagement ring. Same as the first treasure map proposal. Trusting this person is key.

You can research prior to purchasing a metal detector if there is a local place that may rent them. If not no need to invest in a top of the line metal detector. Remember with this beach marriage proposal idea you will know where to dig up the ring.

You will need to scout the beach as least one-day prior. You will also have to coordinate the same process with your trusted friend. Your friend will guard the ring after they bury it.   The only difference is this time they do not leave the shovel behind. You should already be carrying a small shovel, as you are metal detecting.

How do you get your partner to go metal detecting? You can tell them you were inspired by a recent movie or TV show you both watched together.   Another idea is if you can research an actual treasure find that happened on the beach you would be visit. You can tell your partner you bought a metal detector to find your own piece of the treasure.

It is always recommended to go metal detecting in the early morning or at sunset. There will be fewer people around.   So this fact will also provide a more intimate setting on the beach. Link for local sunset times.

As you approach the spot where the ring is buried start to get excited that you are hearing a big hit on the metal detector.   Once the ring is dug up you can ask her to share the treasure for the rest of your life.

Beach proposal ideas accessories needed: Amazon Links showing examples of each item.

beach proposal ideas, unique proposal ideas, marriage proposal ideas

Beach proposal ideas – Bird’s eye beach marriage proposal:

This beach proposal idea is not physically with your feet in the sand. This beach proposal idea is high above looking down on the beautiful blue water below.

Many popular beach destinations have aerial tours that offer a fly over. This can include planes, helicopter, and even skydiving if you are into extreme marriage proposals.

As you and your future fiancée fly over the beach tell her to look below. There will be a large sign that says, “Will you marry me?”

If the flying tour allows bring champagne along so you can toast after she says, “yes!

beach proposal ideas, unique proposal ideas, marriage proposal ideas
beach proposal ideas, unique proposal ideas, marriage proposal ideas

Writing out the message on the sand can either be done prior by you or coordinated with some helpful friends.   To make the message stand out I recommend using a dark color tarp. Pre-cut the letters so you or your friends can easily unfold and spell out the message.

Additional people needed for the beach proposal: Yes, It can be helpful. Having friends spell out the message on the beach will save you a lot of sneaking around.  It will also ensure that the message stays intact for the fly over proposal.

For your flyover beach proposal you will have to contact your flying tour provider prior.   Tell them your beach proposal plan. Ask for their advice on the best beach to write your marriage message.   The beach location you pick should be a secluded location. So you or your friends will not have a difficult time finding space to write your message.

This beach proposal idea will have your love on cloud 9 when you propose.

Check Groupon for flying tour deals.  Groupon deals

Beach proposal ideas accessories needed: Amazon Links showing examples of each item.

Beach proposal ideas – Message in the sand:

As you and your partner take a romantic walk along a peaceful beach you come upon a message written in the sand.  That message will ask your partner for their hand in marriage.   While this may seem like a simple beach proposal sometimes simple is beautiful.   This beach proposal idea is classically romantic and timeless.

Writing the message in the sand can either be done prior by you or coordinated with some helpful friends.

It is important to visit the beach prior to determine a good place to write your message.   This should be a place that will not be underwater during high tide.   Also the area should be secluded to minimize the risk of people erasing your message.   This is why a friend can be very helpful in guarding your message in the sand.

Ask your love to go for a walk on the beach. You can coordinate your walk with sunset for the best atmosphere. Link for local sunset times.   Make sure to leave enough time for your walk vs. the actual sunset time. You do not want it to be dark when you get to the message.

On your already planned walking route you come to message in the sand.   As your partner reads the message you get down on one knee and propose.

A nice touch would be to have champagne waiting for you to toast to your engagement.

unique proposal ideas and how to propose
marriage proposal ideas and the steps to planning a marriage proposal

Beach proposal ideas – Fire and starlight proposal:

as you snuggle next to your partner on a clear night watching the flames reflect over the ocean.  She gazes at the billions of stars above. The simplicity of enjoying a fire on the beach can be a perfect beach proposal idea.

Plan an evening where you enjoy your favorite food and drinks at a starlight picnic by the sea.

To plan this beach proposal make sure your beach allows fires. Have to make sure your proposal is not interrupted by the fire department.

Beach proposal ideas accessories needed: Amazon Links showing examples of each item.

To add a little extra wow to this proposal you can hire a band. The band will surprise your love with a musical background to your romantic proposal.

beach proposal ideas, unique proposal ideas, marriage proposal ideas

Beach proposal ideas – Sail into the sunset with a picturesque marriage proposal:

Imagine the peaceful sound of waves as the sun begins to set, producing a soft reflection over the water. As the ship moves towards what seems to be a never-ending sunset, you get down on one knee.

There is always something timeless and romantic about a sailboat. This can be a unique and unexpected proposal location.

Before you choose this beach marriage proposal idea, be sure she is not prone to seasickness.  Find a local sailing charter that offers sunset sails. If the boat does not offer a meal and champagne, pack your own.   Check the exact time of sunset to be sure to drop to one knee at the most picturesque time.

This special yet classic proposal will have you sailing towards happily ever after.

Beach proposal ideas accessories needed: Amazon Links showing examples of each item.

beach proposal ideas, unique proposal ideas, marriage proposal ideas

Beach proposal ideas – Writing in the sky or plane banner:

Many like to include a grand gesture in their proposal.   Having a plane pull a banner or write, “Will you marry me?” in the sky is definitely grand.

Take your love to the beach with a picnic filled with your favorite foods and drinks.   As you sit on the sand gazing at the endless ocean the roar of a plane above catches her attention.   As the plane flies above writing your proposal in the heavens you get down on one knee.

Beach Proposal ideas Accessories needed: Amazon Links showing examples of each item.

beach proposal ideas, unique proposal ideas, marriage proposal ideas

For this proposal it is important to know the beach you will be proposing. It will be necessary to direct your pilot where to fly.   Research a plane company prior and ask their advice for the best location for an aerial proposal.

Check Groupon for sky writing deals Groupon deals

Beach proposal ideas – Boom! fireworks marriage proposal:

If you can afford this grand gesture why not light up the sky with your own fireworks show.

Plan an evening picnic on the beach.   As you cuddle and look up at the stars an amazing explosion of lights illuminate the sky.   As fireworks make your partner’s heart race with every beautiful burst of light, get down on one knee.

Marriage Proposal Accessories needed: Amazon Links showing examples of each item.

beach proposal ideas, unique proposal ideas, marriage proposal ideas
beach proposal ideas, unique proposal ideas, marriage proposal ideas

 

When you contact a local Fireworks company be sure to ask about the laws and regulations that involve putting on a fireworks show.   They will be able to advise you on any additional permits or authorizations you need.

Also ask your fireworks company for the prime beach location to show your love how much they really mean to you.

**Important: I strongly advise against trying to put on your own fireworks show. It will be pretty tough to put on a wedding band if you are missing a hand. A proposal can make a man’s hand shake in anticipation of asking the big question. That is NOT a time to play with explosives.

This will be a spectacular proposal that your partner will never forget.

Beach proposal ideas – Surf lesson marriage proposal:

If your partner is the athletic type and likes to learn new things set up a surf lesson. This marriage proposal idea will have you riding the wave to your future.

Once your partner rides their first wave they will be ecstatic from their accomplishment. In this moment of excitement take them to shore and propose on one knee.

It is very important to make sure the ring is secure before you go into the water. Have the ring inside a watertight bag safely secured inside your wet-suit or swimsuit. If you are only wearing a swimsuit make sure to get one with a zipper pocket.   You can also keep the ring in a safe location on shore.

After your proposal you can have a nice picnic with champagne to celebrate

This beach proposal idea will give your partner a rush they will never get over.

beach proposal ideas, unique proposal ideas, marriage proposal ideas
beach proposal ideas, unique proposal ideas, marriage proposal ideas

Beach proposal ideas accessories needed: Amazon Links showing examples of each item.

Check Groupon for local deals on surf lessons. Groupon deals

Beach proposal ideas – Scuba diving marriage proposal.

An underwater proposal is a unique proposal option if your partner likes to scuba dive.   I would only suggest this proposal idea if you and your partner have scuba certifications and dive regularly.

Part of scuba diving is staying calm under exciting or stressful circumstances, so keep that in mind.   Your partner already must be highly trained and familiar with underwater excitement.

A scuba diving proposal can be an amazing experience but remember this marriage proposal idea has several limitations. I recommend leaving the ring on the boat for after you propose.  Fish are attracted to shiny objects.   You don’t want your ring to become fish food.

Unless you have advanced scuba equipment that allows you to speak underwater, you will have to propose with a sign.   Make sure your sign is waterproof.

As you dive down to the ocean floor make sure to get your partners attention.   Get down on one knee touching the ocean floor.   Unfold your sign and watch the bubbles of joy rise from your partner’s mask.

The unique part of this proposal is you will probably be the only couple to ever get engaged in that exact spot on the ocean floor.

beach proposal ideas, unique proposal ideas, marriage proposal ideas
beach proposal ideas, unique proposal ideas, marriage proposal ideas

Beach proposal ideas – Private dinner for two:

Many beach resorts offer a romantic dinner by the sea.   This could be at the end of a pier extending into the ocean or with your feet in the sand.

Dinner proposals can seem cliché, but what makes this proposal unique is the atmosphere.   Having dinner outdoors is always a treat. Having dinner with an amazing view of the ocean even better. Having dinner when you have your feet in the sand or feel like you are floating on water, that is unique.

Contact your resort prior to make sure they offer a private romantic beach dinner.   Ask about add-ons like a musical performance such as a guitar player or violinist.

With dinner proposals always keep the ring in the box. Do NOT try get sneaky by hiding the ring in a desert or champagne glass. This can lead to a very uncomfortable moment. You do not want to explain to your fiancée that they just ate their engagement ring.

I would also always advise to keep the ring on you.   Many people think it’s a good idea to have the waiter bring the ring box.   I was a waiter for years. Personally I would be kind enough to not steal your ring, but I have also worked with waiters who may not be so honest.   That ring is more valuable than any tip you will give them. Waiters are honest people in general, but I wouldn’t risk it.

Do have your wait staff aware you are planning to propose.   When you do get down on one knee they will have a timely champagne toast already poured.

beach proposal ideas, unique proposal ideas, marriage proposal ideas

Beach proposal ideas – Relaxing couples massage marriage proposal:

Many beach resorts or spas offer an ocean view couples massage.   This can be an extremely relaxing pre-proposal activity.

Contact your resort to reserve your massage.   Inform them that you plan to propose after the massage.   It is important to ask them the details of the location and where may be a good place to propose post massage.

Remember you and your partner will only be wearing a towel during the massage. This makes it hard to hide a ring. It also would not be ideal if your partner jumps with excitement, forgetting that they are barely covered.

Keep the ring in the clothing locker and wait till you are both dressed post massage.   Your love will be extremely relaxed in this moment.   Perfect time to take a stroll along the beach and propose.

She will go from extreme relaxation to extreme excitement.   This is an emotional swing she will always remember.

Now that you have your beach proposal idea picked, I wish you endless sunny days and good waves in your future.

To book a beach vacation check out our trusted travel partners. Check travel deals

Have a question you did not see on the site? Ask us and we will answer it. Ask a Question

 

WhatsApp chat