Asking someone to spend the rest of their lives with you is a major step. It's no wonder, then, that some people have perfected the art of proposing. Here are 40 of the most surprising, original, and touching marriage proposals. From proposals in exotic locations, proposals with extra-special meaning to proposals from some of our favorite celebrities (scroll till the end to see those extra-special proposals) - if you're happening to be planning your own proposal, or if you just love daydreaming about the big day, prepare to be inspired.
1. Proposal at Iron Man
Patrick Lange won Iron Man in 2018, setting a new record for completing it under 8 hours, and proposed to his girlfriend immediately afterward. Not all of us might have the stamina to complete a triathlon before our proposal, but Lange definitely nailed it!
Pro Tip: Don’t just assume your partner will say yes in a big public proposal. Many people get embarrassed with that much attention on them or they might even get physically sick if they have stage fright. Make sure you know how your partner will respond with cameras and crowds watching them, before risking your big moment.
2. Proposal with a Baseball Pitch
This one is for all the baseball lovers out there. This adorable couple got engaged on a baseball field after she threw the first pitch (albeit a bit off from center). This is perfect if your first date was at a baseball game.
Pro Tip: When brainstorming ways to propose try and think of where you have had meaningful dates. Or maybe even memorable, funny experiences before you started dating. Connecting your proposal to a part of your shared history is a great way to get her to say yes.
3. Proposal with a Card Game
This bride-to-be was shocked when, while playing a card game with her family, she drew a card that said, “Will You Marry Me?” Her future husband definitely used his creativity to incorporate a proposal into a card game.
Pro Tip: Proposing in front of friends and family can be very meaningful for some people, but others might prefer the intimacy of being alone. When you are thinking about which route to go maybe ask some of your friends what they think your partner would prefer.
4. Proposal on a Volcano
Mount Hallasan is a volcano on Jeju Island in South Korea and it was the perfect backdrop for this couple’s engagement. After hiking to the top in the early hours of the morning he got down on one knee and she said yes.
Pro Tip: Morning and evening is the best time for photos, so if capturing the moment is important to you try and plan around that. The golden hour will give you glowy skin and make all the colors look spectacular in your photos.
5. Proposal with a Cartoon Flip Book
This artist created an adorable flip-art drawing of a married couple looking back into their life, all the way back to the proposal, which leads to the current moment of holding the flip-book. What a sweet way to imagine what your future might look like together while also proposing!
Pro Tip: Using art to propose is a wonderful option because it can be both meaningful with the time that went into making it and also because you can save it and look back at it later on in life.
6. Proposal with a Tattoo
Marriage is usually a lifelong commitment and this couple made sure it would be with a tattoo! Surprising his partner, a tattoo artist, with a tattoo that asks, “Will You Marry Me?” this guy really wasn’t taking no for an answer. Thankfully she checked the box that said yes, otherwise that would have made for an awkward tattoo.
Pro Tip: Having a friend ready to take a video of your proposal and your partner’s reaction is a great way to save the memory, without the pressure (and expense) of a professional videographer or photographer.
7. Proposal at a Wedding
You might not have thought to propose at a wedding, but this couple pulled it off! Instead of throwing her bouquet, this bride handed it to one of her bridesmaids, who then turned around and was greeted by her partner on one knee. The wedding turned into a double celebration - one new marriage and one to come!
Pro Tip: If this is something you might consider doing make sure you ask the bride first. No one wants to be upstaged on their wedding day. But once you get the all-clear this is a perfect way to celebrate with friends and family!
8. Proposal Under the Night Sky
This photo looks too beautiful to be true! This couple got engaged under the stunning night sky in the great outdoors. What a way to celebrate a future together by marveling at the universe and celebrating under romantic twinkling stars.
Pro Tip: Picking a scenic location is a great way to make your proposal special. Try looking for parks, wildlife sanctuaries, natural reserves, or even just a lake nearby when you are brainstorming for locations to propose. You can even tie in a road trip to a national park if camping is your thing!
9. Proposal with Rainbow Backdrop
Some moments you couldn’t plan even if you wanted to. That was the case for this lucky couple who got engaged in front of an incredible double rainbow. I’m sure this is a memory they will treasure forever.
Pro Tip: If you are proposing outdoors make sure you are prepared for all types of weather. Check the weather forecast and maybe have a friend on hand with an umbrella if you are worried about rain. Or maybe just let yourself get soaked, you’re getting married after all, who cares about staying dry!
10. Proposal with Animated Disney Movie
Some people just have the creative gene, like this guy who proposed to his partner by animating her into her favorite movie! Using the classic Sleeping Beauty, this shocked bride-to-be was confused when the storyline changed to Prince Philip getting down on one knee.
Pro Tip: Lots of people like grand gestures in proposals, but sometimes it’s more important to tie it to something meaningful, like a favorite movie. Don’t be afraid to use creativity and experiment with your proposal, but also keep in mind your audience. What is important to your partner?
11. Proposal in New Zealand
This 6.5km hike in New Zealand ends with spectacular views which one couple made the most of for their proposal. This photo, taken by a fellow hiker, shows the happy couple getting engaged with mountains, lakes, and an endless sky in the background.
Pro Tip: If you are planning to propose during a long hike pack something in your bag to celebrate. It could be a bottle of champagne or a sweet treat, but it's a great energy booster and a lovely way to celebrate your engagement.
12. Proposal in Iceland
This photo captures the moment right before this guy’s partner turns around and notices him down on one knee. The drone gives just the right perspective for the stunning scenery and the suspense of the moment.
Pro Tip: Iceland is a very popular destination for elopements. If big weddings are not your thing, or maybe you are just feeling spontaneous, why not get eloped after the engagement? You’re already there after all.
13. Proposal on a Football Field
Instead of lining up a football for his girlfriend to punt this football player pulled out an engagement ring. The surprise is evident on her face, but she quickly says yes and embraces him. And then they are swarmed by all his teammates and it turns the whole pitch into a giant celebration.
Pro Tip: This video beautifully captures the moment from multiple angles, giving a complete look at the whole scene and the couple in it. Using a professional videographer takes this memorable moment and puts it on the next level.
14. Proposal Underwater
This couple said yes under the sea! They might not have been able to seal the deal with a kiss, but this scuba diving trip was the perfect way for this couple to get engaged. There’s even a stingray in the background of the photo!
Pro Tip: If you and your partner are adventurous then trying something new together is a great way to stage your proposal. It gets your blood pumping, takes you out of your comfort zone, and makes an amazing memory.
15. Proposal in an X-Ray
When your girlfriend is an x-ray technician you can get a little creative with your proposal. This guy wrote “marry me” with metal wiring and then taped it to his chest under his t-shirt. When his girlfriend looked at the results she was shocked at the result!
Pro Tip: The best marriage proposals are often surprises. Make sure you hide the ring and recruit just enough people to help you where it isn’t too suspicious (too many people and you might give away something is happening.)
16. Proposal with a Book
Author Aaron Kane dreamed of proposing to his wife using the dedication page on his novel, but he had to wait until he was published. He eventually decided to self-publish and gave the first copy of the book to his wife, who opened it up and found the marriage proposal inside!
Pro Tip: A lot of couples post on social media after getting engaged, usually to show off the fancy ring. Make sure your partner is photo-ready with getting them a manicure (or having a friend take them) a week or so in advance.
17. Proposal Under the Northern Lights
There might not be a more romantic setting than getting engaged under the aurora borealis, also known as the northern lights. These spectacular displays of light are usually seen in countries far north, near the arctic circle. They dance in the sky in colors of green and purple, creating the perfect setting for this couple’s engagement.
Pro Tip: Some photos just can’t be taken without a professional photographer, especially ones that are in low light conditions which might require more complex equipment. If getting the dream photo is important to you make sure you do some time researching photographers that get good ratings and have styles you like.
18. Proposal with a Dog
Got a special furry friend in your life? Then this proposal is for you. Just look at this adorable pup who held the engagement ring for his humans, who could say no to that?
Pro Tip: Using dogs to help in your proposal is an adorable idea, but make sure it's a dog you know and trust. You don’t want to risk dropping the engagement ring somewhere. But if you have a dog who’s well trained (and as cute as this one), then go for it!
19. Proposal after a Helicopter Ride
This guy went above and beyond for his proposal. After surprising his girlfriend with a sunset helicopter ride, they landed and he had a beautiful engagement set up planned. From rose petals to candles, this guy checked all the boxes.
Pro Tip: Make sure you plan the details with the big surprise. They may seem little, but having romantic decorations can be the icing on the cake for an engagement. Maybe enlist a family member or friend who you know will do a good job of setting it up, while you distract the bride-to-be.
20. Proposal with a Flashmob
This elaborate proposal involved a lot of help. After flying all the way from the UK, once landing in Mumbai, Suraj took his girlfriend out to a club, where he had arranged a flash mob to surprise her. They danced to a mashup of love songs which ended in Suraj getting down on one knee.
Pro Tip: A song can really help in setting the scene. Maybe it’s a pop song classic, like “I think I want to marry you” by Bruno Mars, or something special to you and your relationship. Either way, it’s a great addition to a proposal.
21. Proposal in Costa Rica
This couple combined an engagement with a dream vacation in Costa Rica, complete with a video of Emil asking his future father-in-law for permission to propose before leaving for the trip and a romantic walk on the beach, this proposal video has it all.
Pro Tip: Creating a video montage of your proposal is a great idea. Go above and beyond and include the set up of the proposal, the planning, and the celebration afterward. These are all important memories you’ll want to treasure, along with the proposal itself.
22. Proposal at the top of a Waterfall
Asbyrgi Canyon, located in Iceland, is a natural canyon with waterfalls and forests. This couple overlooked the entire canyon from on top of one of the waterfalls for their engagement. A perfect unique, but stunning, location to start off on the rest of their love story.
Pro Tip: Wear the right clothes! You want something that will look nice in photos, is loose enough to conceal a ring in your pocket, and won’t show any sweat stains. Wear something you feel comfortable in, but also polished enough for photos or videos.
23. Proposal on the Beach
Everyone loves a good beach proposal. The naturally romantic setting provides you the perfect place to set up. With a sea breeze in your hair and a sunset in the background, it’s hard to find a better set-up than this. This couple even covered the beach in red rose petals, making it even more amazing.
Pro Tip: If you’re planning on getting engaged at a public place and don’t want to draw crowds, try to go early in the morning or in the evening when people have started to head home. This will give you privacy and make sure you don’t have any stragglers in your photos.
24. Proposal on the Eiffel Tower
This list wouldn’t be complete without one proposal from the ‘City of Love’ and what better way to do it in Paris than on the Eiffel Tower. This happy couple said yes overlooking the entire city of Paris, while on one of the most famous world landmarks. What a perfect place to say yes!
Pro Tip: Pick the right date for your proposal. This might not seem like something you need to pay attention to, but it’s worth considering. You want to avoid dates that already have meaning attached to them, like holidays or birthdays of friends, and carve out a day that's special just for you too.
25. Proposal at MegaCon
This couple made sure their set up was fun and unique, by getting engaged in costume while at MegaCon. Dressed as characters from Pokemon and surrounded by their friends this is a great way of integrating a shared hobby into your proposal.
Pro Tip: Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Everyone loves watching people’s love stories come true and so most people will be willing to help you set up your engagement. Whether it’s the staff at a venue, friends, or even strangers in a crowd try and find people to help set up and take pictures.
26. Proposal with a Geode
This proposal featured a handmade ring case made by hinging together two geodes. It creates a sparkly, unique setting to showcase the ring they picked. And is a lovely memento you can save and display in your first house together.
Pro Tip: Get creative with the ring and ring case. Just because you might have bought the ring in a certain box doesn’t mean that’s how you have to propose with it. You can make your own box if that's in your skillset, buy one online, or enlist a friend for help.
27. Proposal with a Custom-Made Surfboard
This guy had a custom-designed surfboard for his girlfriend, which has the words, “Marry Me?” embossed on one side. He made sure it was her favorite color, was the perfect size for her, and then gave it to her when he proposed.
Pro Tip: Integrate something your partner can use in your proposal. The possibilities are endless into what you can write, “Marry Me?” on, so try and pick something that your partner has been wanting for a long time and will use in their daily life. This is perfect if your partner is big on gift-giving and receiving.
28. Proposal at a Zoo
Detroit Zoo was where this couple decided to seal the deal. In front of a few onlookers and some various curious fish, this guy dropped to one knee and popped the question.
Pro Tip: Some proposals can be serious, but some can bring out your inner child. Try and give yourself space to consider both when planning a proposal. Don’t get caught up in what’s traditional or what is expected of you, do what you know will make you and your partner happy.
29. Proposal on a Gondola in New York
Some things are just made for proposals, like floating down Central Park in a gondola while you are serenaded by a live musician. That’s exactly where this couple got engaged and it couldn’t have worked out better for them.
Pro Tip: Have you talked to your partner’s family? Not everyone goes the traditional route of asking for permission from their partner’s parents, but it doesn’t hurt to check in with them in advance. Get them on your good side by asking for advice and having them ready to congratulate you afterward.
30. Double Marriage Proposal
This couple couldn’t have been more surprised when they both pulled out engagement rings while at an amusement park. They both had planned in advance and were ready to propose and just happened to pick the same time to do it.
Pro Tip: Don’t be afraid to take control! Instead of waiting for your partner to propose, consider planning the proposal yourself. There is nothing stopping you from having the proposal of your dreams, especially if it involves you getting down on one knee.
31. Bonus -- celebrity proposal
Nick Jonas and Priyanka Chopra's engagement marks the end of an era for us Gen Zers (and sure, maybe some millennials). For those of us who grew up lusting over the starry-eyed boy band member (Camp Rock? Anyone) this surely puts an end to all of our fantasy daydreams.
Nick Jonas proposed to Priyanka Chopra on the Grecian island of Crete after surprising her during her 36th birthday celebration. Yes, Priyanka may be older than him, but their new marriage is still young, vibrant and exciting!
32. A Royal Engagement
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have certainly made headlines all over the world due to their progressiveness in contrast to the old British monarchy. Although the Royal Family did not greet their engagement with open arms, they continued to stand up for what they believed in and didn't let anyone dictate their lives for them.
Given this couple's humble nature, it should come as no surprise that their proposal was simple and refiend. Prince Harry dropped to one knee while cooking dinner with Meghan Markle. The perfect romantic and intimate way to seal the deal. That can serve as a reminder to us all that it's not always about extravagance when it comes to romance and true love.
33. A Dreamy Proposal
John Legend and Chrissy Teigen are such a power couple. While John makes some incredible music, Chrissy is on her way to another bestselling cookbook. Though we personally love her for her incredibly funny social media presence.
Celebrities often lead some super extravagant lives, so it's no surprise that their engagements might take on the same nature. John Legend proposed to Chrissy Teigen on a dream vacation while in the Maldives, and you can bet it was one for the ages.
34. Men in Black and Women in White
Will and Jada Pinkett Smith are both famous in their own right. And they've also raised two incredibly talented children. Willow's "Whip My Hair" was iconic, and who can forget Jayden in the reboot of The Karate Kid? However, this family is all about keeping it real.
Will Smith proposed to Jade Pinkett while cuddling in bed--a perfectly normal, but intimate moment, and representative of their relationship for years to come.
35. Racing Romance
Pink has always been a badass, writing super empowering, in-your-face, songs that all of us have grown up listening to. It should come as no surprise that her marriage also has some powerful, empowering roots.
Pink took charge of this proposal and proposed to Carey Hart while he was racing on a race track (he even dropped out of the race to say yes!), this couple isn't messing around, and Pink has set a precedent. Ladies, if you have something to say, say it, girl power and gender equality aren't just slogans anymore.
36. Pulling Out All of the Stops
Leave it to Orlando Bloom to spare no expenses in proposing to Katy Perry. He may have been famous before her, but her soundtrack is iconic enough for us to know that she has incredibly high standards.
Orlando Bloom planned the perfect wedding proposal complete with champagne, a helicopter ride, and the dream ring. Luckily, there was no hot-and-cold business this time, just a whole lot of love.
37. Parisian Engagement
Though Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes didn't have a happily ever after, that doesn't mean their proposal wasn't perfect. After his divorce from Nicole Kidman, you better believe Cruise wanted to get it right.
Tom Cruise proposed to Katie Holmes while on the Eiffel Tower, it doesn't get more romantic than that!
38. Social Justice Proposal
We absolutely love Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard, each incredibly talented (and funny! in their own right. We loved Kristen Bell in The Good Place, and Daz Shepard was just such a sweetheart on Parenthood.
Seeing as they're incredibly woke (and awesome!) This couple waited until marriage was legalized for all couples in the United States and then Kristen Bell tweeted a proposal to Dax Shepard. Setting another precedent for gender equality, what a queen.
39. When in Rome
This love story centers around one of the most romantic cities in the world, Rome. Alexis Ohanian & Serena Williams met in Rome in 2015 while staying at the same hotel, and hit it off right away. In December 2016, they came back.
Alexis proposed to Serena in the same hotel where they met, and a month later they found out that Serena was pregnant! They are the most adorable family!
40. A Full House
John Stamos & Caitlin McHugh met while filming an episode of Law and Order: SVU. John has candidly revealed that he's always been great with kids and wanted some of his own,
That's why it seems extremely fitting that he proposed to Caitlin McHugh at Disneyland! Maybe it really is the happiest place on earth.