11 Surprise Proposal Ideas for a Romantic Engagement

Planning for a marriage proposal surprise is an exciting yet stressful moment. If you don’t know where to begin, we have collated a few of the best ideas out there, some of which are inspired by celebrity proposals. Check out these exciting ideas and start planning for the most special day in your life.

Outdoor Proposal

There’s something about popping the question when you’re basking in the natural beauty of the outdoor. Nature provides a free yet romantic backdrop for every proposal. Here are some ideas worth considering when popping the question outdoors.

Create an Instagram-Worthy Moment

If you think your partner will appreciate an extravagant marriage proposal surprise, then by all means, go all out. Hire a planner, florist, and other suppliers, and let them work their magic. Add some romantic lights and candles to create an Instagram-worthy proposal.

Get inspiration from Travis Barker and Kourtney Kardashian’s beach proposal. Look at how Kourtney was completely surprised to see a field of roses on the sand. Travis walked her into the middle of the display where he proposed.

Ride a Helicopter

A romantic helicopter ride is a great surprise marriage proposal idea if you’re looking for an extravagant way to ask for your other half’s hand. Take your love to the skies and give your significant other a thrilling experience to set the tone for your journey together. Visit the Grand Canyon, Monte Carlo or San Francisco from up above.

Take inspiration from Giuliana and Bill Rancic’s proposal. The couple took a tour of Chicago while drinking champagne, and Michael Bublé was playing in the background. It was a dreamy moment, but then Bill got down on one knee and smashed a champagne flute, and their excitement ruled the moment.

Attend a Concert

@manisherx

POV: Proposing at The Eras Tour Singapore 💍 ❤️ It’s a high kneel to remember #lovestory #taylorswift

♬ original sound – manisherx – manisherx

Raise your hand if you’re guilty of scrolling through “Love Story” proposals on TikTok. Concert proposals are one of the best things that happened in 2024, all thanks to Taylor Swift. Take inspiration from the marriage proposal surprises that transpired during the Eras tour — pop the question at a concert during your S.O.’s favorite song and watch people go wild. Remember that it should be a particular song in your love story to make it even more memorable.

Take a Winery Tour

Winery tours are inherently romantic. The setting, landscape and atmosphere evoke intimacy even if you spend time outdoors. Plan a date for a beautiful tour of a special winery, inform the staff, place the ring into an empty wine glass, and serve it to your partner for a surprisingly romantic proposal. You can do this in Oregon or Napa County in California.

Indoor Proposal Ideas

Indoor proposals offer more privacy and control, ideal for individuals who appreciate simple, quiet delights. If you or your partner likes cozy, intimate settings, we’ve got you covered. Here are marriage proposal ideas for indoor settings.

Make It a Word Game

Do you have a partner who loves crossword puzzles? Consider creating a special puzzle for them to decode. There’s one Reddit user who used a Custom Wordle, which allows you to input your five-letter word. From there, you can send your personalized link to players you want to get involved. Short, smart and sweet. 

Do a Scavenger Hunt

A scavenger hunt is perfect for people who love mystery and adventure. Here’s what you’ll need to pull it off successfully:

• Choose a setting: It could be your home, an escape room or a hotel. Scout the destination ahead of time.
• Consider your S.O.’s interests: Tailor the scavenger hunt to their preferences.
• Be creative: Get wild with the ideas but not too complicated. You don’t want your partner to get stressed in the process.
• Hire a photographer: Aside from their photography skills, make sure they know how to hide well.
• Plan the proposal: It could be a traditional kneeling proposal paired with a funny yet endearing speech, just like how Jake Peralta proposed to Amy Santiago.

@peacock

Perhaps the greatest heist of all time? 🥹 #Brooklyn99 is streaming now on Peacock. #JakePeralta #AmySantiago #Proposal

♬ Peacock_B99_Proposal – Peacock

Have a Dinner at a New, Romantic Restaurant

Instead of revisiting places that are meaningful to your relationship, why not explore a new place together? It could be a restaurant your partner has seen on TikTok or a place you deem fit for a romantic dinner proposal. That way, you can avoid suspicion from your partner.

Incorporate in Your Family Dinner

Kneeling on one knee during a family dinner is a romantic idea, especially if you and your significant other are close to your families. Get a family member you can trust in the plan to capture the moment. Pop the question and some champagne with your loved ones afterward.

Destination Wedding Proposal

Planning to fly to another country to propose? Here are some exciting ways to excite your partner.

Pop the Question on Your Trip

Russell Brand proposed to Katy Perry during their vacation in India. He arranged a surprise candlelit garden dinner, and then at midnight, the couple was treated to a grand fireworks celebration.

If you like to keep things simple yet grand, remember that a romantic candlelit dinner will always be loved. If you want something more unique than that, think of a place or experience that’s unique to your destination. For instance, a sunset on Boracay Island in the Philippines is deemed one of the most beautiful in the country. Wait for the sunset and pop the question against the stunning background.

Take a Sunrise Hike

If you and your partner enjoy the outdoors, consider taking a hike. Map out the route and pop the big question. Prepare some drinks and food to enjoy afterward. Plus, hire a photographer so you and your loved one can share it on social media.

Set Up a Picnic

Afternoon picnics are inherently sweet and romantic. Prepare the food, scout for a beautiful spot and ensure a stunning backdrop. Don’t forget to pack some wine and some glasses.

Get Inspired by These Marriage Proposal Surprise Ideas

Remember that your love and commitment should shine through no matter how grand or simple your gesture. Remember to choose an idea that resonates with you and your partner’s interest to make it the best moment of your life.