How to Propose: Ideas, Timing and an Engagement FAQ

Proposing is rarely about doing something “big”—it’s about doing what feels right for the two of you. Some dream of a classic proposal with a ring and getting down on one knee, others prefer something quiet and private, and many want an experience that fits their story as a couple. That’s why the most popular proposal ideas are often the ones that feel personal, thoughtful, and realistically doable.

This page brings together the most searched questions about how to propose, along with concrete ideas for locations and setups—private, romantic, fun, and more low-key. If you’re already looking at engagement rings with a retailer like A-Hjort, the ideas here can help you find the proposal setting that matches your ring choice and style.

What makes a proposal “good” in practice?

A successful proposal usually comes down to the right match between your partner’s personality and the situation you create. If your partner loves attention, proposing with friends or family nearby can feel like a celebration. If your partner is more private, the exact same setup can feel like pressure.

A simple rule of thumb: choose a place where your partner would feel comfortable on a normal day.

Proposals also tend to go better when you’ve thought about the “invisible” details: ring size, a Plan B for weather and logistics, and an easy next step afterward (dinner, a hotel night, or a calm walk). That gives you space to land in the moment instead of immediately switching into planning mode.

FAQ: How do you propose?

Do you have to propose with a ring?

No. You can absolutely propose without a ring and choose it together afterward — it’s one of the safest ways to get the size and style right. A middle option is a “placeholder” ring (a temporary ring), so the moment still has a ring, while the final engagement ring is chosen later.

What do you say when you propose?

Keep it simple. Many people use a short structure:

why you love the person,
why you want to share life together,
the question. "Will you marry me?"

It doesn’t need to be a speech. It should sound like you.

Private or public proposal — what’s best?

It depends on your partner. If your partner dislikes being the center of attention, go private. If your partner loves big moments, a semi-public setup (for example, a dinner with discreet help from staff) can be a good balance.

When is the best time to propose?

Pick a time when you’re not exhausted or stressed. Weekends and vacations are popular because you have time afterward. Anniversaries can be romantic, but the proposal shouldn’t feel like an obligation “because the calendar says so.”

Should you ask parents for permission?

It’s completely optional and depends on culture and family dynamics. Some see it as respectful, others as old-fashioned. A neutral option is to share the news afterward and invite them into the joy.

Should you hire a photographer or take video?

Only if it fits you both. A discreet photographer “at a distance” can capture a powerful memory without making it feel staged. But if your partner doesn’t like cameras, it’s often better to keep the moment just yours.

What are the most common proposal mistakes?

The classic mistakes are usually practical: the wrong ring size, making it too public for a private partner, having no Plan B for rain or chaos, or not planning a calm “after” — so you end up in logistics mode instead of enjoying it.

Proposal ideas that work

1) The private proposal that feels real

This can be at home after a great dinner, on a walk in a place you both love, or during a quiet moment on a weekend trip. It works because you can be fully yourselves. If you want it to feel special, create a simple frame: flowers, a short note, or a glass of wine — but keep the actual moment simple.

2) The “meaningful place”

Choose a place with history: where you met, your first date, your first kiss, or a spot you always return to. It’s often more moving than a “perfect” Instagram location because it’s about you.

3) The nature proposal

Beach, forest, lake, viewpoint. Nature is beautiful, but plan for weather and timing. A quieter time of day and a Plan B (a café or restaurant afterward) makes it far more relaxed.

4) The weekend-trip proposal

Weekend trips give you several natural moments to choose from. Pick a time when you’re not fresh off long travel. Many people propose at sunset, after check-in, or on a calm morning walk.

5) The restaurant proposal

If your partner is private, propose before or after the restaurant — not in the middle of the room. If your partner loves a big moment, staff can help discreetly with a good table or timing. But it’s still the two of you carrying the moment.

6) A scavenger hunt or small “clues”

This works especially well if you enjoy playful experiences as a couple. Keep it short (3–5 stops), and let each stop mean something small. End in a calm place with the question.

7) Proposing with friends/family

A safe model is: propose privately first, then have friends or family show up afterward for a celebration. That way you get both intimacy and community.

8) Proposing without a ring — but with a strong symbol

You can absolutely propose without a classic engagement ring and still make the moment just as meaningful. A letter, a photo book, a small “our story” note, or a planned experience can be a powerful symbol in itself. If you’d like to include a ring in the proposal, you can also choose a more budget-friendly temporary ring—at A-Hjort, we have rings in a wide range of price points. After the proposal, you can either upgrade or find the final engagement ring with us, so it’s perfect in size, style, and overall look.