Unforgettable Proposal Ideas That Go Beyond the Ordinary

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, love is certainly in the air. Will it be the usual chocolates and roses, or will this be the year you truly sweep them off their feet with the surprise proposal they’ve been dreaming of? A marriage proposal is a moment many of us have imagined since childhood, so it’s only natural to want it to be absolutely perfect.

Whether your proposal plan is an intimate, heartfelt surprise or a grand, show-stopping gesture, the possibilities are endless. From breathtaking backdrops and adventurous outings to romantic dinners or whimsical settings, this is your chance to create a memory that will be forever treasured and relived time and time again, because who doesn’t love a good “how did they propose” story?! So to help you plan the perfect proposal, we’ve explored some truly unique and wonderful ideas that will make your big moment unforgettable!

When To Propose

When it comes to proposing, timing can be just as important as the moment itself. Whether you choose a special date that means something to both of you or a spontaneous occasion that surprises and delights, there’s no right or wrong time to pop the question. Here are some of the most memorable moments to consider for your proposal.

Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is the ultimate celebration of love, and what better time to pop the question? This romantic day is all about expressing your love, making it the perfect opportunity for an exciting moment that neither of you will ever forget.

Christmas Day

For many, Christmas Day is one of the most magical days of the year. Surrounded by festive cheer, twinkling lights, and the warmth of family, proposing on Christmas Day is bound to feel like a scene from a fairytale. It’s an intimate moment you can cherish every year.

New Year’s Eve

There’s something magical about starting the new year with a proposal. Whether you’re ringing in the year with fireworks, a private moment, or surrounded by friends, New Year’s Eve offers the perfect chance to make a fresh start—together. What better way to pop the question than with the promise of a beautiful future?

Their Birthday

Proposing on your partner’s birthday is a way to make an already special day even more memorable. It adds a personal touch, turning their birthday into not just a celebration of them, but a celebration of the life you’re about to share. You’ll forever associate their birthday with the exciting moment you decided to spend forever together.

A Special Anniversary

If you and your partner share a particular anniversary—whether it’s the day you met or the day you became a couple—this is the perfect moment to propose. It’s an intimate setting where you can reflect on the beautiful journey you’ve had and take the next step together.

Whenever You Want

Not everyone needs a special occasion to propose. Sometimes, the best proposals are those that happen when you least expect it. Whether it’s a quiet moment in your living room or on a spontaneous trip, proposing whenever feels right allows you to create an unforgettable and personal moment that will always be yours.

How & Where To Propose

Now that you know when to propose, it’s time to think about how and where to make this intimate moment truly unforgettable. There are countless romantic places to pop the question, each offering a unique atmosphere and spectacular views. Here are some unique and wonderful ideas for the perfect proposal spot.

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Imagine a magical hot air balloon proposal, floating high above the world with nothing but stunning views and the one you love beside you. It’s the perfect spot for a proposal that combines adventure with intimacy. You can even capture the moment with a proposal photographer, so it’s a memory you’ll always treasure.

Fireworks Display

For a truly spectacular proposal, surprise your partner with a fireworks display. Whether at a special event or as a private celebration, the explosion of colour and light will make your proposal even more magical.

Hidden in Fortune Cookie

For a fun and unexpected twist, hide the engagement ring in a fortune cookie. This adds an element of surprise and delight, turning a simple dinner into the perfect proposal moment.

Private Helicopter Ride

Take your proposal to new heights with a private helicopter ride offering breathtaking views. Whether flying over stunning countryside or a sparkling city skyline, this is a luxurious and unforgettable way to pop the question, making the moment truly special.

Pet Proposal

If your partner is a pet lover, incorporating your furry friend into the proposal can add an extra layer of sweetness. Picture your dog with the ring tied to their collar, a "Will you marry me?" tag, or even delivering a special note. A pet proposal is a heartfelt and personal way to pop the question, guaranteed to melt their heart and make the moment unforgettable.

Private River Cruise

Set the stage for a romantic proposal with a private river cruise. Whether gliding along the Thames, exploring Oxford’s waterways, or discovering another charming spot, it’s an intimate experience surrounded by stunning views. A scenic cruise offers breathtaking vistas and a peaceful ambiance, creating another perfect opportunity to pop the question.

Famous Landmark

Proposing at a famous landmark, such as the Eiffel Tower, offers the chance to create a timeless, romantic moment. From the Colosseum in Rome to the Eiffel Tower in Paris, landmarks provide a perfect backdrop for an unforgettable proposal.

At the Top of the Shard

If you're looking for a dramatic and unforgettable location, why not propose with the view from The Shard as your backdrop? Offering spectacular views of the London skyline, it sets the stage for an incredibly romantic experience. The combination of breathtaking scenery and the intimate atmosphere makes it a perfect spot to pop the question and create a memory that will last a lifetime.

Scavenger Hunt

A scavenger hunt is a playful and exciting way to lead your partner to the big question. Each clue brings them closer to you, and when they finally reach the last clue, they’ll find the proposal waiting for them.

Wedding Ring Blacksmith Experience

For a truly unique experience, why not craft your own wedding ring together at a wedding ring workshop? This hands-on proposal idea allows you to make the wedding ring an integral part of your love story, creating a piece that will hold even more meaning on your wedding day. The shared experience is one that both of you will cherish forever.

Northern Belle

For a proposal full of glamour and elegance, consider a trip aboard the iconic Northern Belle train. This vintage-style train offers a fine dining experience, and with its intimate setting, it’s the ideal place for a private, unforgettable proposal. 

London Eye

The London Eye is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city, offering stunning views of the capital from above. A proposal in a London Eye private pod creates an intimate moment that’s both thrilling and incredibly romantic, making it an unforgettable experience for you and your partner.

Flash Mob

For a grand, show-stopping proposal, consider a flash mob. This public display of love is sure to make an impact, and with a carefully choreographed routine, you can pop the question in front of a crowd that will be buzzing with excitement.

Glamping

If you’re a fan of the outdoors, a proposal under the stars in a luxury glamping pod can be an intimate setting like no other. Whether in a quiet field or nestled by a scenic lake, the tranquillity and stunning views will make your proposal feel magical.

Proposal on the Slopes

If you and your partner love skiing or snowboarding, there’s no better place to propose than at the top of a mountain. Whether in the snow-capped mountains of Switzerland or on the slopes of Scotland, this dramatic setting will make your proposal unforgettable.

What Knee Do You Propose On?

Traditionally, proposals are made on one knee. This gesture symbolises respect and commitment, showing that you are ready to take the next step in your relationship. It’s an intimate moment that stands out and adds to the emotion of the proposal. Typically, your left knee should be on the ground while your right knee is up. The ring box should be held in your left hand and opened with your right hand, creating a timeless and elegant pose for this life-changing moment.

Which Finger Does The Engagement Ring Go On?

The engagement ring is traditionally worn on the fourth finger of the left hand. This finger is known as the "ring finger" and is believed to have a vein that leads directly to the heart, making it the perfect symbol of love and commitment.

So, however you plan to pop the question, we hope this has sparked your imagination and given you plenty of inspiration to make that special moment truly magical. Whether it’s a grand gesture with breathtaking views or an intimate setting filled with personal touches, your proposal marks the beautiful start of an unforgettable journey together— so just make sure you don’t lose the ring before the big moment!