5 Romantic Holiday Proposal Ideas

The holidays are a great time to propose, with long vacations, gorgeous falling snow, extra time with your sweetie, and warm fireplace chats. Whether you live in a cold climate or a warm one, there are plenty of ways to incorporate the holidays into your proposal. If you’re popping the question this winter, we can’t wait for your special occasion! Find a few of our favorite holiday proposal ideas below.

A Surprise Photoshoot

Planning to take some cute photos for the holidays? Take advantage of the photographer on hand and snap your proposal during your session. This one works best if you start the photoshoot off in a normal fashion, then get on one knee in between frames. We recommend going somewhere in nature or taking the photos in your home, as opposed to a studio with Santa Claus. Not only is a special, personal photoshoot guaranteed to surprise your sweetheart, but you’ll have beautiful photos to capture the moment forever.

Propose in the Snow

For something simple and sweet, spell out “Will you marry me?” in the snow while your partner is busy, then lead them outdoors for a special surprise. Alternatively, you can create a “winter wonderland.” Set up candles, twinkling lights, and, if you don’t live in a snowy area, paper snowflakes. Bring a thermos of hot chocolate or mulled wine along with you. If you think your future fiancée will enjoy photos, enlist a family member or hire a photographer to capture the moment. If they prefer low-key, personal moments, keep it between the two of you.

Ice Skate Date

One of our favorite holiday traditions is ice skating! Whether you live in the city, the suburbs, or the country, there’s likely a skating rink nearby that’s decorated for the holidays. Take your love out for dinner, followed by hot chocolate and a romantic skating session. Hold their hand as you glide across the ice, wrapped up in your favorite cozy clothing. Skate onto one knee to pop the question, or wait for a quieter moment depending on their style.

Wrapped with a Bow

Wrapping their engagement ring in a gift box with a big bow and sliding it under the tree is always a good option for a holiday proposal. Or, depending on how you celebrate, you can hand them the gift at any point throughout the season. As they open their present, get down on one knee and take their hand. There’s nothing like watching the joy reach your loved one’s eyes as they unwrap the present of forever love.

A Sweet Serenade

There are so many ways to include music in your winter proposal! You can hire carolers to knock on the door and end their song with the big question. We also recommend taking a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride in the snow while playing some holiday tunes or songs that define you as a couple. If you feel up to the task, you can even write your own song and get into the holiday spirit by singing it to your significant other yourself. Music is romantic and adds a beautiful backdrop to your proposal.

Bonus: 5 of Our Favorite Local Proposal Ideas

We have some more winter proposal ideas, perfect if you’re a local and looking for something unique. With Shane Co. stores in these locations, we not only know the city, but we’re nearby for all your proposal needs, whether you’re purchasing a ring with us or need anything else. Check out a few of our recommendations below!

Atlanta: The Fox Theatre

We dive into detail in another post about winter proposal ideas in Atlanta, Georgia. One of our favorites on the list? The Fox Theatre. This stunning historic theatre is the perfect place to propose to anyone who loves the city, theatrical productions, or great architecture. Catch a show, then propose outside in front of the marquee!

Phoenix: Desert Botanical Garden

The Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix, Arizona, is a gorgeous place to propose any time of year. During the winter, the holiday lights make it extra magical. Phoenix isn’t as cold as some parts of the country, and snowfall is rare, so we love the festive desert lights, complete with entertainment throughout the season.

Seattle: Six Seven Restaurant

If you head into the city and want to propose looking over the water while staying warm inside, we recommend eating a delicious meal at Six Seven Restaurant at the Edgewater Hotel. Not only is the cuisine exceptional, the views are breathtaking. This is a great option for the classy couple who wants a quiet proposal. Plus, you can stay in the stunning hotel for the night and check out their holiday pop-up bar to celebrate.

Salt Lake City: Snowbird Ski Resort

Does your partner love skiing? Or at least, do they enjoy cozying up by the fire in the lodge? Snowbird Ski Resort is a popular choice for a reason! It features stunning views, perfect for those who want a holiday proposal in the snow. Hit the slopes and get down on one knee to pop the question!

Denver: Winter Train Ride

Near Denver, you’ll find the Georgetown Loop Railroad, which offers rides through the mountains. This is an intimate option for anyone looking for something outside the city while staying warm. They even offer winter holiday trains, decorated perfectly for the season. 

Don’t forget the ring! You can shop over a thousand exclusive engagement ring designs at Shane Co. You can also book a virtual or in-store appointment to speak with an expert jewelry consultant for help in finding the right ring. With our fast shipping, you’ll have your ring just in time for a holiday proposal.

Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in December 2020 and has been updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness.