10 Unforgettable Wedding Proposal Ideas to Sweep Them Off Their Feet
With so many wedding proposal ideas floating around the internet, planning the perfect ask can feel overwhelming. From simple and sweet to lavish and romantic, there are many things to consider before you get down on one knee.
At The Elm Estate, we have worked with thousands of couples to plan their special day from the proposal to the champagne send-off. Our top tip? Consider your significant other’s personality! If your partner is casual and low-key, plan a private and romantic proposal. Or, if they love the spotlight, think about planning a big get-together with friends and family.
Once you have an idea of what type of proposal best fits your love story, it’s time to plan the details. Today, we’re sharing ten of our favorite wedding proposal ideas that we’ve gathered from our team of event planning experts!
Recreate your first date
Re-live the moment when you first fell for each other by recreating your first date. This classic proposal idea is a fun way to reminisce on fond memories before you pop the big question. If you’re proposing somewhere public like a restaurant or museum, make sure to contact them first; they may be able to help you plan something extra special like a custom dessert or champagne toast.
First Date Proposal Ideas:
Celebrate with a nightcap at your favorite bar.
Ask the restaurant to place the ring in a glass of champagne.
Rent out a private space whether it’s a movie theater, bowling alley, or gallery.
Recreate your first photo together with the engagement ring.
Romantic Walk on the beach
There’s nothing quite like a romantic beach proposal. Whether you’re planning a tropical vacation or live near the beach, a seaside proposal adds extra beauty to your special moment. Try to plan the proposal around sunrise or sunset when the beach is less crowded for extra gorgeous views.
Beach Proposal Ideas:
Plan a romantic picnic or dinner afterward.
Hire a secret photographer to capture the moment.
Bring a bottle of champagne to toast the celebration.
Place the ring in a seashell for a forever keepsake.
Go on an adventure
If your partner is a thrill-seeker, try an adventure-based proposal for something truly memorable. Choose a public location, like a hiking trail or national park, or contact a company that specializes in outdoor recreational activities.
Adventure Proposal Ideas:
Go snowshoeing for winter wonderland vibes.
Plan a hike and propose at the top of the mountain peak.
Go kayaking or paddleboarding on a breathtaking lake.
Enjoy a quiet camping trip just the two of you.
Book a helicopter or hot air balloon ride for panoramic views.
Embrace the seasons
If your partner loves a certain time of the year, try incorporating seasonal elements for gorgeous photos and scenic views. You can also propose around their favorite holiday, like Christmas or Valentine’s Day, to make their favorite time of the year even more special.
Seasonal Proposal Ideas:
Plan an outdoor movie night under the stars in the summer.
In the fall, walk through an arboretum to enjoy the changing leaves.
Propose in a rose garden in the springtime.
Book a sleigh ride or cabin getaway in the winter.
Plan a gathering with friends and family
If you and your partner are especially close with your family and friends, consider inviting them to be a part of your big moment. You can invite loved ones to the proposal itself or plan a celebration afterward for a more private proposal. Pro tip: ask them to take photos or hold up signs to incorporate your love’s favorite people!
Friends and Family Proposal Ideas:
Ask loved ones to share special memories or stories.
Plan a dinner or party after the proposal.
Ask friends to take photos in a hidden location.
Invite loved ones from out of town to surprise your partner.
Incorporate a family tradition like an annual trip or family heirloom.
Have A picnic in the park
A picnic is a classic, romantic option for an unforgettable proposal. Keep things intimate with a quiet, private picnic spot, or invite friends and family to be a part of the celebration. Don’t forget to pack something special like a bottle of wine, chocolate-covered strawberries, or your partner’s favorite foods!
Picnic Proposal Ideas:
Hire a luxury picnic company to set up the scene for a stress-free proposal.
Pick a picnic spot with happy memories, like where you had your first date or said “I love you” for the first time.
Make the picnic extra romantic with candles, wine, and flowers.
Plan a Couple’s Photoshoot
A couple’s photoshoot is a great way to discreetly capture the moment while you propose to your love! Many wedding photographers are happy to help you plan a proposal in a stunning location to capture these forever memories. Need help finding the perfect photographer? At The Elm Estate, our team is happy to give you recommendations and referrals!
Couple’s Photoshoot Proposal Ideas:
For the best candids, ask your photographer to help coordinate the surprise of popping the question.
Find a nearby park, garden, beach, or forest for a natural setting.
Keep things cozy with an at-home proposal in your living room or backyard.
Create an Insta-Worthy Moment
If you’re a fan of glitz and glam, go all out with an Instagram-worthy backdrop! Hire an event planner to help you coordinate florals, furniture, lights, and a photographer to capture every moment. Don’t forget to plan an outfit that matches the elegance of the evening!
Insta-Worthy Proposal Ideas:
For a truly epic proposal, plan a fireworks show!
Incorporate an arch made out of flowers or balloons.
Use light-up letters that spell out “marry me” as the backdrop.
Hire a musician to add to the ambiance.
Go on a boat ride
If you and your partner love the water, plan your proposal on a romantic boat ride! Try renting a sailboat experience for a fun day on the water or plan a casual row boat ride at your favorite lake.
Boat Proposal Ideas:
Decorate the deck with flowers or rose petals.
Bring a picnic and champagne for a romantic lunch.
Book a full day to enjoy the sunset views.
Include your pet
If you and your significant other are pet parents, including your beloved pet is a memorable way to pop the big question! From collars to ring pouches, there are so many ways to make them a part of your special moment.
Pet Proposal Ideas:
If you cannot bring your pet to the actual proposal, create a customized ring box with your pet’s photo.
Buy a collar or scarf that says “Will you marry me?”
Instead of a ring box, consider a ring pouch that attaches to your pet’s collar.
Bring your unforgettable proposal to life
Whether you dream of a proposal that’s simple and intimate or fun and extravagant, there are countless ways to create a memory that will last a lifetime! From outdoor adventures and luxurious excursions to cozy picnics and romantic dinners, considering your partner’s personality and incorporating personalized moments will make your engagement even more special. And, once they “yes”, The Elm Estate is here to guide you through every stage of wedding planning from your engagement party to your “I dos”. We can’t wait to hear more about your love story!
Contact us today to learn more about weddings at The Elm Estate.