Proposal Ideas

Since 2013, Flytographer has captured thousands of surprise proposal photos all around the globe. Explore romantic proposal ideas and tips from real couples, enjoy their heartwarming love stories, and discover how their big “Will you marry me?” moment unfolded.


Reilly & Thu's Proposal Story in Dallas

How did you meet?

Friends/Family

What is your love story?

R: I think once you know, you know. I knew I wanted to propose for awhile, and it was mainly a matter of figuring out the best way to do it. We've grown so much as a couple over the past few years, and I wanted to make sure I tried to make a special moment just that.

What made you choose this proposal destination?

R: Flippen Park is a beautiful park with great scenery, in a historic part of Dallas. We had pictures done at this park before for a previous life event, so it was nice to return. I knew I wanted to propose in a more secluded location, and I felt this park was a great place to return to.

What is your proposal story?

T: Leading up to the proposal, Reilly had told me that we were attending a university alumni event. Little did I know, a beautiful setup was waiting for me in the gazebo. Reilly talked about our love story and past memories, got down on one knee, and asked if our future could be one forever together. He surprised me by arranging for our families and closest friends to celebrate together after.

Proposed in Dallas in January

Photo Shoot Location: Custom Route

Ilona in Dallas for Flytographer


Hector & Sofia Alvarado's Proposal Story in Madrid

How did you meet?

Friends/Family

What is your love story?

The first time I saw her, I said, "She is the woman of my dreams," and when I met her, it was when we were picking up our sisters from a school trip.

What made you choose this proposal destination?

She went away for work for three months, and I decided to surprise her.

What is your proposal story?

Well, when I arrived in Madrid, she found it surprising, and we spent the whole day together. I was planning to propose the next day, so the following morning, I woke her up early, we went out for breakfast, and then I took her to the park—that’s when I proposed.

Best tip for proposing in Madrid

Madrid is an incredibly romantic city, and there are so many beautiful spots to propose. My main advice is to plan ahead and choose a location that fits your style as a couple. Parks like El Retiro are perfect, especially early in the morning when it’s less crowded and more intimate. Check for any closures or renovations at your chosen spot—I learned that the Crystal Palace was under renovation, so I’m glad I had a backup plan within the park. Also, consider hiring a photographer to capture the moment—it made our experience even more special and gave us lasting memories. Lastly, relax and enjoy the moment! Madrid’s charm will make it unforgettable.

Proposed in Madrid in December

Photo Shoot Location: Retiro Park

Julia in Madrid for Flytographer


Ryan & Rachel's Proposal Story in Provence

How did you meet?

Hinge

Proposed in Provence in September

Photo Shoot Location: Gordes Village

Lucille in Provence for Flytographer


Brian & Chris's Proposal Story in Paris

How did you meet?

Social Media

What is your love story?

We have been together for over 7 years, and I have known for a while but wanted the perfect setting.

What made you choose this proposal destination?

We were here in 2019 prior to COVID, and we think it is a magical city. We added a lock to the bridge (since removed) where I proposed. As soon as we discussed going back this year, the lightbulb went off in my head.

What is your proposal story?

I knew the lock had been removed for several months now but still thought that bridge was a part of our story and meant a lot to us both. I told Chris I booked a cooking class near the Louvre on Friday, I had our photographer waiting on the bridge and messaged her as we approached. As Chris realized the lock was gone and looking out over the water he turned around and I was on one knew and proposed. It was a perfect Suprise.

Best tip for proposing in Paris

We took our photographers advice, if you pick somewhere, where tourist might be. Early is better. We shot around 10:30 am and the bridge didn't have many people on it, later in the day it was quite crowded. Do it Early!!!

Proposed in Paris in December

Photo Shoot Location: The Louvre & Palais Royal

Maria in Paris for Flytographer


Omar & Jasmine's Proposal Story in Tokyo

How did you meet?

School

What is your love story?

We've been together for a long time and I knew she was the one from the beginning. We met in school and reconnected later on. We started hanging out and the rest is history!

What made you choose this proposal destination?

The leaves change this time of year in Tokyo! I also have family in Japan so it was perfect timing.

Best tip for proposing in Tokyo

Understand the sunrise and sunset times! They change throughout the year.

Proposed in Tokyo in November

Photo Shoot Location: Hibiya and Yurakucho

Ayako in Tokyo for Flytographer


Benjamin & Jonna Mae's Proposal Story in Cabo San Lucas

How did you meet?

Coffee Meets Bagel

What is your love story?

We met through Coffee meets Bagels and chose to first meet at Philz coffee in downtown San Francisco before the pandemic in January 2020. We kicked it off and starting seeing each other more often after a couple months of talking. We are like-minded and care deeply about the same things, so when we can hold a conversation and have the same sense of humor about it. That’s how I knew she was the one. It’s also about how she handled herself around the people I love and that means the world to me.

What made you choose this proposal destination?

My cousin was getting married and I saw how beautiful it was, so I saw my opportunity to surprise her when the time was right.

What is your proposal story?

We had the idea of saying we were taking family photos and in the process we started with couples only on the beach and me and Jonna started off first.

Proposed in Cabo San Lucas in November

Diana in Cabo San Lucas for Flytographer


Marshall & Alison's Proposal Story in Porto

How did you meet?

Dating App

Proposed in Porto in November

Photo Shoot Location: Ribeira do Porto

Luis in Porto for Flytographer


Fabien & April's Proposal Story in Lake Louise

How did you meet?

Friends/Family

Proposed in Lake Louise in November

Photo Shoot Location: Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

Darine in Lake Louise for Flytographer


Sade & Erica's Proposal Story in Montreal

How did you meet?

Spiritual Retreat

What is your love story?

I knew she was the one because for the first time ever, I truly felt seen and loved unconditionally. My family loves her for me. We have similar values and goals in life. We also have trust and communicate very well.

What made you choose this proposal destination?

It felt right. I originally planned to propose in our home city, but proposing on this trip just felt right!

What is your proposal story?

It was time for a vacation! So, I chose Montreal since we both have never been. I told her that I arranged for us to have a vacation photoshoot while we were there. I paid for her to have her hair, nails, and make up done because I knew that she would want to look her best. Then I surprised with the proposal during the photoshoot.

Best tip for proposing in Montreal

Dress for the weather and be patient in high traffic areas.

Proposed in Montreal in November

Photo Shoot Location: Mont-Royal

Irina in Montreal for Flytographer


Matthew & Savannah's Proposal Story in Hallstatt

How did you meet?

At a park

What is your love story?

After being together for 4 1/2 years I knew I wanted to start a family with her and spend the rest of my life loving her.

What made you choose this proposal destination?

Work sent me out here for a month and I found the town through Kevin’s portfolio.

What is your proposal story?

We got lunch at a nearby restaurant while waiting for the time Kevin and I decided on. After getting confirmation from Kevin that he was ready we walked down to the bridge. I made eye contact with Kevin and then tried to convince her to come out onto the bridge with me. Initially she didn’t want to because it was frosted over but I eventually convinced her. Then I stopped in the middle and got down and one knee and asked her to marry be. After she said yes we hugged and I whispered in her ear to look left and smile because there’s a professional photographer taking her picture. After that we came off the bridge and Kevin congratulated us and then took us through the town of Hallstatt to take pictures at a bunch of different spots.

Best tip for proposing in Hallstatt

No everything was perfect and Kevin will set the whole scenario up for you so that it’s perfect.

Proposed in Hallstatt in November

Photo Shoot Location: Town Centre

Kevin in Hallstatt for Flytographer


Gabriel & Jonna's Proposal Story in Osaka

How did you meet?

School

What is your love story?

Jonna and I met at a college involvement. She was best friends with a few of my best friends, however I never put a face to her name. I knew she was involved in this group, so on my first day, I made it a mission to meet her. Once I saw her for the first time, I knew she was special. I knew she was the one after all of those nights we just spent hanging out in the car, talking together. She's my best friend, and I'm lucky to have her.

What made you choose this proposal destination?

Jonna absolutely ADORES Japan, and this was our first trip to the country. We were also with 10 of our closest friends, so timing was perfect. We originally planned to do it in Osaka due to timing, but we had to change to Kyoto due to scheduling issues. At the end, I loved Kyoto much more -- the park was absolutely BEAUTIFUL, and matched exactly what I wanted from the shoot.

What is your proposal story?

My partner has always wanted to have a photoshoot with a special dress. Photography was one of my hobbies, but I haven't had the time do a photoshoot with her for some time. I 'came up' with the idea of getting a photographer for her to have a couples photoshoot in Japan, and she loved the idea. My friends said that they had 'plans' in Kyoto during that time, and we all agreed that we should ride to the same area and start our day near each other. We split up from our friends 20 minutes before our photoshoot so they could all prepare for the moment.

Best tip for proposing in Osaka

Be sure to check the weather! Especially if you are traveling farther that day, it's important to be prepared. We had to switch our shoot to Kyoto, but we were lucky that our proposal date was not going to rain. Nonetheless, we were still prepared in case it did rain. Would also recommend bringing a change of shoes, if you are planning on bringing less comfortable shoes for the shoot. There are lockers if you need to store extra things at most train stations, so use that as a resource so you're not lugging items around. Lastly, work closely with your photographer. They are the experts and mine was very helpful with any questions!

Proposed in Osaka in October

Photo Shoot Location: Osaka Castle

Coo and Yurika in Osaka for Flytographer


Simon & Rebecca's Proposal Story in Kyoto

How did you meet?

We met at a concert over twenty years ago!

What is your love story?

Initially we were childhood sweethearts, however after a few years apart we got back together and have been for the last ten years. Rebecca is my soul mate, my best friend and the love of my life.

What made you choose this proposal destination?

Having both been interested in going to Japan together for many years, when we finally decided to book it I just knew that it would be the right place. Especially Kyoto, somewhere so naturally beautiful and filled with amazing history. It’s a city that reminds me of Rebecca and now it will forever.

What is your proposal story?

On the day I had to act calm and casual, which having known someone as long as I have Rebecca was easy. We’d had a good few days before in Tokyo and Osaka and were already on the holiday of our lives. I just tried to continue that on the day and told Rebecca that we had to visit this shrine. When we booked to go to Japan she had shared a picture of the bridge there, so she was excited for a picture on her phone!

Best tip for proposing in Kyoto

Embrace it! Kyoto is packed filled with fantastic places. Enjoy the city and the culture on every corner and find the right spot. Whilst it can be busy in parts, there are so many wonderful places like this that aren’t as busy. Be clever with your timing and do some research first into how busy the area you are planning is.

Proposed in Kyoto in November

Photo Shoot Location: Custom Route

Yoshi in Kyoto for Flytographer


Serkut's Proposal Story in Kyoto

How did you meet?

School

Proposed in Kyoto in November

Photo Shoot Location: Philosopher's Path

Coo and Yurika in Kyoto for Flytographer


Brenden & Haley's Proposal Story in Edinburgh

How did you meet?

Work

Best tip for proposing in Edinburgh

There are a lot of stairs and hills leading to the area so be prepared for a slight workout.

Proposed in Edinburgh in November

Photo Shoot Location: Calton Hill

Kim in Edinburgh for Flytographer


ARVIE & Camilla's Proposal Story in Tokyo

How did you meet?

School

What is your love story?

Fell in love in nursing school. She was everything I wanted in a partner.

What made you choose this proposal destination?

We love Japan. Have been here many times. This would be our third!

What is your proposal story?

I wanted to propose in a quiet place we could share our moment alone. Found a quiet Japanese garden that dates back 1000+ years. Found a hill that overlooks the whole garden. I wanted to make her feel like she was on top of the world!

Best tip for proposing in Tokyo

Very hard to find a place that is quiet with less people. Consult and request help from your knowledgeable photographer!W

Proposed in Tokyo in November

Photo Shoot Location: Custom Route

Ayako in Tokyo for Flytographer


Shana & Jess's Proposal Story in Galway

How did you meet?

Work

What is your love story?

Jess and I met at work in 2015 and we connected in a way different than anyone else I had ever met. Our first kiss was on Block Island, Rhode Island, amongst the cliffs on the beach. We moved to Colorado together in 2016 and continued to travel and explore the world together. I can't think of a specific moment when I knew she was the one but instead there were lots of little moments that made me feel like "yeah, this is right". We have lived a lot of life together and we still keep learning about each other. In 2020, we bought a house in the mountains and continue to learn even more.

What made you choose this proposal destination?

We had planned to get engaged in Scotland, but Galway was special to Jess' family so I asked her for a single day on our 2 week trip to plan entirely myself and that was this day. I specifically chose this beach because it looked so similar to the place where we had our first kiss.

What is your proposal story?

We spent the night prior at Galway Sea Stays which allows you to sleep on an old boat - a really unique experience. In the morning, we picked up a Celebration Hamper from Gourmet Tart (on recommendation from our photographer). I had contacted them a week prior and they customized the hamper for us. When we showed up at the beach, however, it was high tide! and my entire plan of a beach picnic proposal was squashed. Jess already knew that this was our spot, so we came up with a new plan together, and with Vanessa's support. We ended up finding a spot in the cliffs to climb up where I actually proposed to Jess.

Best tip for proposing in Galway

Check the tide schedule! We showed up at our beach for what was supposed to be a beach picnic and the entire beach was underwater. We still made it work but added in a second location - the Barna Woods - which ended up perfectly supplementing our plans.

Proposed in Galway in October

Photo Shoot Location: Custom Route

Vanessa in Galway for Flytographer


Gareth & -'s Proposal Story in Kyoto

How did you meet?

OKCupid

What is your love story?

-

What made you choose this proposal destination?

She had previously mentioned of her ideal proposal as overseas. Kyoto, Japan seemed like a great location.

What is your proposal story?

We went early at 6am to take photos. There were already a handful of people around the Gion streets but most were very accommodating to allow us to take the shots. Recommend Coo and Yurika - they can fill you in with more details.

Best tip for proposing in Kyoto

(1) Time - 6am is good. Any later and the crowd streams in pretty fast at Gion / Kiyomizu Dera (2) Maruyama park is great for nature shots and just nearby (3) Autumn foliage cuts into late November nowadays, probably cant get much in Oct/ early Nov (4) Check the weather, we had typhoon the next two days post-proposal, so it was a lucky thing for us

Proposed in Kyoto in October

Photo Shoot Location: Higashiyama District

Coo and Yurika in Kyoto for Flytographer


Will & Andrea's Proposal Story in Tokyo

How did you meet?

School

What is your love story?

We met in middle school years ago and slowly watched eachother grow, eventually developing crushes for eachother in high school but never telling eachother. After graduating, I finally reached out to her and we revealed our feelings for eachother, and ever since then we've been together, sharing our lives and love with eachother as we continue to grow together.

What made you choose this proposal destination?

Kiyosumi Gardens in Tokyo seemed perfect as it's both beautiful and less popular than many of the other gardens/parks in Tokyo! After visiting in real life, it did not disappoint!

What is your proposal story?

I took Andrea to the Candy Candy museum in the Katsushiko area. It's one of her favorite childhood shows! Afterwards, we made our way to Kiyosumi Garden (I kept the whole thing a surprise so she had no idea where we were going!). Once we arrived, I felt relieved because it was just as beautiful and peaceful as the pictures seemed! Almost immediately I saw Coo waiting for us while pretending to be an undercover tourist. I slowly led Andrea to the location I had decided beforehand and Coo approached us, pretending to be an amateur photographer so that he can capture my proposal without raising suspicion. When I asked the question, we both cried from happiness and she said yes! Coo then revealed who he was and led us around, taking beautiful shots of us in a perfect one hour photoshoot! It was an absolutely amazing day and everything went as planned thanks to Coo!

Best tip for proposing in Tokyo

If you're looking for a more personal and intimate proposal, make sure to look for locations that don't receive alot of tourists/traffic as Tokyo can often be very busy. These less busy places can usually be found towards the outskirts of the city.

Proposed in Tokyo in November

Photo Shoot Location: Custom Route

Coo and Yurika in Tokyo for Flytographer


Anuj & Carly's Proposal Story in Sydney

How did you meet?

Met at a uni campus

Proposed in Sydney in October

Photo Shoot Location: Mrs Macquarie's Chair

Lenise in Sydney for Flytographer


Raul & Eunice's Proposal Story in Tokyo

How did you meet?

Tinder

What is your love story?

Years of support and really matched my vibe

What made you choose this proposal destination?

I chose Japan because it has been a big trip for us and because I knew it was time

What is your proposal story?

I know I wanted to do it during our short stay in Japan. I wasn’t sure if I wanted to do it in Osaka or in Tokyo. I wanted to do it some time in the middle of our trip so we could have a before and after experience.

Best tip for proposing in Tokyo

Finding a quiet spot will be difficult

Proposed in Tokyo in October

Photo Shoot Location: Shinjuku Gyoen Park

Ayako in Tokyo for Flytographer


Kyle & Grace's Proposal Story in Kyoto

How did you meet?

Sports

What is your love story?

I knew my partner was the one because I can open up to her and I feel so comfortable around her. She honestly understands me better than I do. However, there was no specific day or event that caused me to know. We would spend all of our time together and over time we got to know each other more and more. Now I can't imagine a day without her being in my life.

What made you choose this proposal destination?

Japan felt like a great proposal destination, since it had a lot of beautiful scenery and we were going to spend a few weeks in Japan. My partner also had hinted that she would like the proposal to happen somewhere scenic, and since my partner grew up in Asia, Japan seemed like a good choice.

What is your proposal story?

We spent the morning at Himeji castle, and then sauntered our way over to Osaka, where Coo was waiting for us at Osaka castle. I was super nervous, and was stressed about trying to get everyone over to Osaka at the agreed upon time, to the point that I forgot most of the speech I had prepared. Luckily, Coo was there to capture the photos and to guide us through an engagement photoshoot, despite my nervousness.

Best tip for proposing in Kyoto

Stores open late at 11 am and close around 6-8pm, though some stores are willing to deliver products (e.g. flowers). There's a lot of tourists, so finding locations can be tricky, especially if you want it to be a bit more private.

Proposed in Kyoto in October

Photo Shoot Location: Custom Route

Coo and Yurika in Kyoto for Flytographer


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