So you decided to pop the question, huh? Planning an epic marriage proposal for your partner is both exciting and nerve-racking. How do you plan a marriage proposal? How can you propose in a unique way? Our how-to propose guide and list of marriage proposal ideas are the perfect resources to start planning.

There are so many different ways to propose, which means there’s no clear right way to propose. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to plan the perfect proposal, from choosing the right ring to finding the ideal location, and everything in between. Plus, we’ll share some tips for the actual day and some marriage proposal ideas we think your partner will LOVE.

How to Propose in 8 Steps

1. Know What Your Partner Wants

Photo by Kelsey Converse

Before planning any big gestures, it’s essential to understand what type of proposal your partner would love. Some people dream of an intimate, private moment, while others might prefer a grand, public affair. Reflect on their personality, their preferences, and any hints they might have dropped along the way.

Ask yourself these questions:

• Do they value privacy or enjoy the spotlight?
• Would they prefer a simple, heartfelt proposal or something extravagant and elaborate?
• Have they shared their dream proposal or mentioned what they wouldn’t like?
• Would they enjoy having friends and family involved?

Paying attention to these details will help you plan a proposal your partner will appreciate.

2. Select the Perfect Ring

Photo by Mckenna Kleiner Photography

The engagement ring is a symbol of your love and commitment, so choosing the right one is crucial. While traditional diamond rings remain popular, you can opt for something that fits your partner’s unique style and taste, whether that’s a vintage setting, a gemstone, or even a custom design. We have even had some couples opt for wooden-styled bands!

If you aren’t sure where to start, then check your partner’s Pinterest boards to see if they have any engagement ring inspiration tucked away there. If that doesn’t work, then you can always confide in one of their friends to start the conversation about rings, to see if your partner gives them any clues.

Some places we love to shop for engagement rings include James Allen, Etsy, Brilliant Earth, and Kay Jewelers.

Tips for choosing the right ring:

• Ask for help: If you’re unsure of your partner’s preferences, enlist the help of a close friend or family member who can offer insight. Make sure they keep it a secret!!
• Size matters: Find out your partner’s ring size before making the purchase. You can secretly borrow one of their existing rings or ask a jeweler to measure it.
• Stay within budget: It’s easy to get carried away, but remember that a meaningful ring doesn’t have to break the bank. Stick to a budget that makes sense for you and your financial situation.

If you’re not confident in your choice, you can propose with a placeholder ring and choose the final design together later.

3. Pick the Perfect Proposal Location

Photo by Marla Manes Photography

Location is key to setting the tone of your proposal. The place you choose should have personal significance, whether it’s where you had your first date, a spot you both love or a destination that holds special memories.

Planning a marriage proposal all stems from where you’re going to propose. Are you going to propose somewhere meaningful to both of you? How about somewhere you both have never been to before?

Just like elopements, there are so many epic places to plan your marriage proposal. Consider what type of environment, season, and activity you want to be doing. For some inspiration, jump to our marriage proposal ideas perfect for adventurers.

Whatever you decide on, make sure you make your proposal plan personal to your relationship. Consider your partner’s personality and what they would really appreciate.

Check out our top places to elope for some ideas.

Ideas for proposal locations:

• At home: Proposing in a familiar, intimate setting can create a cozy and relaxed atmosphere.
• A favorite outdoor spot: Whether it’s a beach, mountain, park, or somewhere you both enjoy exploring, an outdoor proposal surrounded by nature adds beauty and serenity.
• During a trip: Planning a proposal during a vacation adds an element of adventure and surprise. Consider places like a scenic overlook, a historic landmark, or a cultural destination.
• Restaurant or café: If you both enjoy dining out, consider proposing at your favorite restaurant or the place where you had your first meal together.
• Private getaway: Renting a cabin, beach house, or even setting up a romantic picnic in a secluded spot can provide a perfect mix of privacy and romance.

Remember, the best proposal location is one that resonates with your relationship and reflects your shared experiences.

4. Choose the Right Timing

Photo by Shell Creek Photo

Timing your proposal is crucial. Think about the context of your relationship and any important milestones or upcoming life events that might make the proposal even more meaningful.

When is the right time?

• Proposing during a special occasion like a birthday, anniversary, or holiday can add extra significance to the moment.
• Choose a time when you and your partner are both relaxed and free from any major stresses. You want to be fully present and enjoy the moment without distractions.
• Avoid rushing the proposal—take your time to plan it thoughtfully, and wait until you feel confident that the timing is right for both of you.

5. Craft the Perfect Speech

Photo by Will Khoury Photography

The words you say during your proposal will be cherished forever, so take some time to craft a speech that expresses your feelings. It doesn’t have to be long or overly complicated, but it should be genuine and heartfelt.

Writing your proposal speech:

• Reflect on your relationship: Talk about what you love most about your partner, how they’ve impacted your life, and the journey you’ve shared together.
• Make it personal: Incorporate inside jokes, shared memories, and anything unique to your relationship that will make the moment feel special.
• End with the big question: After expressing your love and commitment, lead into the proposal with a clear and direct question—whether it’s the classic “Will you marry me?” or a variation that feels right to you.
• Practice your speech so that you’re confident, but don’t worry about memorizing it word for word. Being in the moment and speaking from the heart is what matters most.

6. Plan for Photos or Video

Photo by Nikolaichik Photo

Capturing the moment is a great way to remember the proposal forever. Whether you hire a professional photographer, set up a hidden camera, or ask a friend to help, having photos or videos will let you relive the moment and share it with others.

• Hiring a professional: A surprise photographer or videographer can capture candid shots of the proposal, ensuring you get high-quality images that tell the story of the day.
• Friends and family: If you want to keep things simple, enlist the help of a friend to take pictures or video. Just make sure they stay out of sight until the moment arrives.
• Self-set cameras: If privacy is important, consider setting up a tripod or hidden camera to discreetly capture the proposal.

7. Consider a Post-Proposal Celebration

Photo by Julia Mina Photography

Once you’ve proposed and your partner says yes, you can make the moment even more special by planning a little celebration afterward. Whether it’s popping champagne, having a dinner reservation ready, or gathering close family and friends, a post-proposal surprise adds to the joy of the occasion.

Ideas for post-proposal celebrations:

• Private celebration: A quiet, intimate moment with just the two of you—whether it’s a meal, drinks, or an evening walk—can let you soak in the happiness together.
• Friends and family gathering: If you know your partner would love to celebrate with others, plan a small gathering of close friends or family to share in the excitement.
• Mini-getaway: Plan a short trip, even if it’s just a night away, to continue the celebration and start your engagement on a high note.

8. Prepare for the Unexpected

Photo by Emett Joseph

Even with careful planning, things don’t always go as expected, and that’s okay! Whether it’s unexpected weather, a location change, or nerves, flexibility is key. What’s important is the love and intention behind the moment—not perfection.

When you’re planning how to pop the question to your partner, you can start getting nervous about what you’re going to say or how you’re going to ask during your planned activity. We recommend taking some time to yourself one day and writing out all your ideas.

By writing down everything, you can be more prepared when the day finally comes, and you’ll also be able to see any plot holes in your plan. At the end of the day, don’t overthink things. Plan something fun for you both to do, think about some romantic things personal to you two, and ask the damn question! You got this!

Side note, this is a good habit to get into to prepare you to write your wedding vows (wink wink).

If things don’t go exactly as planned, embrace the spontaneity and trust that the specialness of the moment will still shine through.

Proposing is one of the most significant moments in your life, and with careful planning and consideration, you can create an unforgettable experience for both you and your partner. Whether you’re planning a simple, intimate proposal or a grand, elaborate event, the most important thing is that it comes from the heart.

Good luck, and here’s to a beautiful proposal!

Photo by Adventure and Vow

Day-of Proposal Tips

Photo by Love Skye Photography

When the big day arrives, it’s natural to feel nervous. But with some thoughtful planning and practical steps, you can ensure everything goes smoothly and make the experience unforgettable.

• Stay calm and flexible: Things may not go exactly as planned, and that’s okay! Focus on the meaning of the moment, not perfection.
• Dress for the occasion: Depending on your proposal location and plan, wear something that makes you feel confident and comfortable. Make sure your partner is also dressed appropriately for the setting (especially if it’s a surprise!).
• Have a backup plan: If you’re planning an outdoor proposal, prepare for unexpected weather by having an alternative location or date in mind.
• Arrive early: If you’re proposing at a specific location, arrive early to ensure everything is in place, whether that means securing a quiet spot or making sure a photographer is set up.
• Keep the ring safe: Double-check that you have the ring securely with you, and think about where you’ll keep it until the moment you propose (a jacket pocket or bag with a zipper is ideal!).
• Breathe and be present: Nerves are natural, but take a deep breath and focus on the joy of the moment. Be fully present with your partner, savoring every second of the proposal.

15+ Marriage Proposal Ideas Your Partner Will Love

Photo by Shanoah Madison Photography

It’s only fitting that all of these proposal ideas are outdoor, which means this is the perfect place to get inspiration if you’re a couple who’s always going on adventures together or making spontaneous trips.

Here are some of our favorite marriage proposal ideas for couples like you:

Go Hiking

Photo by Aris Ringas Photography

If you both love mountains and trails, then planning a proposal around a hike is a great way to surprise your partner. This is especially true if you both go on these types of adventures together often. There are so many areas to explore including the gorgeous red rocks of Sedona, Arizona, or whimsical forests in Oregon.

Think about if you want to visit somewhere meaningful to both of you or if you want to explore somewhere completely new!

Plan a Couple Session

Photo by Mckenna Kleiner Photography

The hardest part of planning a marriage proposal is keeping it a secret while still managing to get awesome photos of your partner’s reaction. We recommend planning a photo session in order to keep your proposal as an epic surprise.

By talking to your photographer, you can also agree on a prompt to signal when you’re planning to pop the question. If you want to guarantee your partner will be surprised, then try planning around their plans. For example, if your partner plans to take photos together, then that would be your best opportunity, versus you offering to take photos together.

Plan During a Vacation

Photo by Wild and Found Photo

Any of the locations we mention in these marriage proposal ideas would make for an awesome vacation together. If you’re feeling too overwhelmed planning one event, then suggest you two need a vacation.

Planning your proposal during a vacation together is an amazing idea because your partner, like most people, would be distracted by the amazing activities you all have planned together. If you’re thinking about traveling somewhere far from home, check out our elopement vendors who specialize in the area you want to visit for your proposal.

Have a Friend or Family Member Document It

Photo by The Tinsley Co.

Maybe you’re close to someone who is naturally always with a camera by their side. If you do, then this is your opportunity to not only plan your marriage proposal, but you can also include some of your loved ones during the experience together.

Get Your Photographer In On The Surprise

Photo by Mariana Ziegler Photography

If you’re both planning a trip you mutually want to go on together, you can easily surprise your partner by including your proposal somewhere and sometime during your trip together. If you’re not sure how to get your photographer there without your partner getting suspicious, then check out this proposal story.

Have a Romantic Picnic With a View

Photo by Adventure and Vow

If you’re thinking about what you can do for a romantic and unique marriage proposal, then consider planning a picnic with a view! There are so many epic places to explore together. Have your photographer in a good hiding place until you’re ready to pop the question!

Plan a Winter Proposal

Photo by Rylee & Co

Seasons are huge for marriage proposals. Engagement season is usually around the holiday, from Thanksgiving to Valentine’s Day. If you want to plan during this time, then a winter engagement is your way to go.

Take a Stroll in a Beautiful Park

Photo by Tori Osteraa Photography

Think about what type of setting you want to pop the question. Even if it rains or snows, it will be a memorable experience together.

Plan a Sunset or Sunrise Proposal

Photo by Amy Bluestar Photography

Just like elopements, marriage proposals are gorgeous during sunrise and sunset. Planning your proposal during these times can also allow you to visit more popular areas without the big crowds. Talk to your photographer or videographer about the best time to propose at the location you love.

Plan a Suprise Double Marriage Proposal

Videography by Backcountry Vows

If you both have talked about eloping together, then maybe you’ll end up planning a double proposal like Shelby and Maddy did. Remember, there’s no rule on who should propose to who, so if you have suspicions about your partner planning an epic proposal for you, why not surprise them too?

Plan a Winter Ice Skating Proposal

Photo by Jaclyn Roth

If you both love the snow and all things winter, then go ice skating together! By planning an activity together, you’ll be able to keep your partner’s suspicions at bay.

Make a Fake BackStory

Photo by Ross Kyker Photography

When you’re planning your wedding proposal, it’s ok to say a little white lie to distract your partner from getting suspicious about your plans.

Plan a Proposal Around Your Dating Anniversary

Photo by Toques in the Wild

This couple planned a romantic forest anniversary photo session, but it quickly turned into a surprise proposal. If you’ve been dating for a long time and enjoy taking pictures together, then planning an anniversary photoshoot is a great proposal idea to consider. After a few kisses and hugs, get down on one knee, and ask the question!

Propose During an Important Life Milestone

Photo by Allie Dearie Photography

A great marriage proposal idea is to propose an important milestone in your relationship. This can include graduation, buying a house together, starting a family, or even getting a new job. By waiting for this milestone, you’re also making your proposal more memorable.

Plan a Unique Proposal Experience

Photo by Nikolaichik Photo

One of our favorite marriage proposal ideas has to be planning to pop the question somewhere completely different. When you’re thinking about where to propose, think about all the options and then ask your photographer how you can make that location even more special.

Photographers, especially adventure elopement photographers, are pros at knowing the best remote spots at popular outdoor proposal locations.

Let Your Proposal Location Do The Talking

Photo by Anna Claire Beasley

If you’re not sure how to start your proposal, or if you’re afraid to stumble on your words, then consider letting your location do the talking. Some ideas you can do is have your friends spell out the words, hire a guitarist to start playing music, or even dray 10-foot tall letters on a ranch!

Plan a Brewery or Wine Tour

Photo by Two Cheeks Studio

If you’re stuck on what to do before your proposal, then do something that will keep your nerves at ease and your partner from getting suspicious. Getting some drinks and exploring outside after is a great proposal idea to consider.

Plan a Fake Friend Trip

Photo by Mikayla Renee Photo

Again, it’s always ok to ask for help. In fact, getting other people in on your plan can help keep your proposal a secret. Just make sure no one drops any hints about the big question you’re planning to ask!

Go Glamping Together

Photo by Shell Creek Photo

If you two love adventures, then plan a weekend getaway trip somewhere like Moab, Utah, or a forest near Big Sur, California. There are awesome glamping options to consider. The couple below stayed at Under Canvas Moab where he popped the question at sunset.

Plan a Beach Date Together

Photo by Oshen Davidson

Couples need more date nights! Plan a date night for your proposal and get your photographer to randomly show up and take some photos of you two. We recommend planning multiple date nights before this, so your partner won’t get suspicious (wink wink).

Which of these marriage proposal ideas are you loving the most? Make sure to save this on your Pinterest board for later!

Photo by Mikayla Renee Photo