Must-Know Tips for a Dreamy Valentine's Day Proposal

A Valentine's Day proposal takes the ultimate holiday of love and elevates it to a day you'll remember forever. If you decide to make February 14 your special day, pop the question in a way that's meaningful to the two of you as a couple. This could include a romantic restaurant proposal at your favorite spot or leading your love to an illuminated "Will you marry me?" sign. It's also important to plan what you want to say before you get down on one knee.

No matter how you choose to propose, work with an experienced proposal planner to help you cross off every item on your proposal checklist. When you're ready to plan your big day, find an experienced planner and other amazing wedding pros on The Knot Vendor Marketplace. We spoke to proposal and wedding planner Kathryne Carter, owner of Grace and Virtue Events near Washington, D.C. since 2018, for all the expert tips you need to know for your Valentine's proposal.

In this article:

• Is It a Good Idea to Propose on Valentine's Day?
• 22 Romantic Valentine's Day Proposal Ideas
• Expert Tips for Planning a Valentine's Day Proposal

Is It a Good Idea to Propose on Valentine's Day?

If you're ready to put a ring on it, you may be wondering if a Valentine's Day proposal is right for you. After all, it's one of the most popular proposal dates during engagement season. But is that a bad thing? Carter explains that while it's sometimes expected that a couple will get engaged on the holiday, it's still a romantic day to celebrate the love between two people. "However, if you feel like it is too expected to propose on Valentine's Day, consider the week of or the week after Valentine's Day for an additional special celebration near the Valentine's Day date," she adds.

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Some other things to consider: There might be another day of significance to you and your partner, such as the anniversary of your first date or when you decided to make things official, that could make your proposal even more meaningful. You may also have a proposal idea that's better suited for warmer weather, which you might not get in February, depending on where you live. Whether you decide to do a Valentine's Day proposal or ultimately choose a different date, the most important thing is that you plan something unique and personal for you and your future fiancé.

22 Romantic Valentine's Day Proposal Ideas

From simple to detailed, these marriage proposal ideas are sure to get you a "yes" on Valentine's Day. Carter recommends working with your local proposal planner for custom moments that require more logistics.

1. Romantic Photo Shoot

Arrange a photo shoot with your partner that includes a Valentine's Day proposal. Take them to where you first met, the location of your first date or another special location. As you pose for photos, surprise your partner by getting down on one knee. Celebrate afterward with a private dinner at your photo shoot location.

2. Scavenger Hunt Proposal

Create a series of clues that lead your partner to meaningful places or moments in your relationship, like where you first met, your first date or a favorite hangout spot. Each clue could include a small gift or memento that represents a memory you've shared. At the final stop, have the big question waiting—whether it's with a sign, a special message or you down on one knee.

3. Private Dance Lesson

Schedule a private dance session for the two of you with a proposal after the last twirl of the lesson. "Make sure to give your instructor a heads up," Carter says. Ask your instructor to dim the lights while you share a slow dance after you propose. Also, consider hiring a photographer to hide out of sight and snap photos of your magical moment.

4. Take a Valentine's Day Drive

Hop in the car and take a scenic drive somewhere local. Spend the ride playing your favorite, most romantic tunes then end at a lookout point where you can watch the sunset, stargaze or simply enjoy the view. Then when you're ready to pop the question, it's private and picturesque all in one! You can even pack some celebratory hot cocoa to make the moment extra sweet.

5. Rooftop Proposal

Marvel at views of a city skyline or the night sky as you pop the question. Take your partner to a restaurant, your apartment building or another venue with a rooftop space. Light candles and dine al fresco before your proposal. This Valentine's proposal idea is best for couples living in warmer climates.

6. Pet Proposal

Whether you're dating someone who has a pet or the two of you are pawrents together, your furry (or feathered or scaly) friend will be family, so it makes sense to have them be a part of your most special moment. Create a custom pet tag that reads "Will you marry me?" for them to wear on their collar, or create a sign that can be attached to their harness.

7. Dinner Proposal at Home

Get cozy in the kitchen and cook dinner together at home. "It can be pizza, tacos, whatever you like, just make it together," Carter says. Light some candles, set out a bouquet of flowers and cue a romantic playlist as you enjoy your meal together. When the moment is right, get down on one knee for a cute Valentine's proposal.

8. Valentine's Day Trip Proposal

Set up a day trip with two to three stops that ends with a surprise proposal. Carter suggests traveling via a private car if it's just the two of you, or renting a bus or limo if you're with family and friends. Or have loved ones join you at location two or three for an extra surprise. Work with the venue and your proposal planner to create a romantic setting at your last stop.

9. Board Game Proposal

Do you and your spouse-to-be love game night? Create a board game themed after your relationship with a rule sheet that includes your proposal in fine print. As you play, ask your partner to clarify the rules, then reveal the ring when they discover your message. Alternatively, if there's a game you both enjoy, hide the ring at the bottom of the box and pretend you're missing a piece or suggest you play for a prize—you may have to lose on purpose, but you'll both be winning in the end.

10. Paint Night Proposal

This Valentine's Day engagement proposal idea lets you flex your creative muscles. Sign up for a paint night event and let your teacher know you're planning to propose at the end of the class. Hide the engagement ring in your smock and have fun creating works of art with your partner. At the end of the night, you'll have artwork to take home that reminds you of the day you proposed.

11. Have a Beach Day

This one is for all our coastal couples—if you live near the beach (or are willing to travel to one), why not propose while overlooking the ocean? Bundle up and plan a romantic picnic, take a walk along the shore and time your proposal with the setting of the sun. It'll set the mood and make for the most beautiful backdrop for engagement photos.

12. Visit a Local Museum

This Valentine's Day proposal idea is perfect if your partner loves art or history. Purchase tickets to visit a nearby museum for the day followed by dinner. Research the museum or consult with your proposal planner to scout out a romantic painting or spot with a beautiful backdrop. Casually lead your partner to that location and surprise them with an engagement ring.

13. Head Out on a Winter Hike

Snow-covered trees add a touch of romance to any outdoor trail. If you're an adventurous couple, bundle up in your winter gear and visit one of your favorite hiking spots. Choose a trail that leads to a stunning view or a frozen waterfall where you can get down on one knee. The other benefit to this Valentine's proposal idea is fewer people are hiking this time of year, giving you more privacy.

14. Library Date Proposal

If you and your bae are the bookish types, create your happily ever after moment at the library or your favorite bookstore. Organize a row of books that create a special message when their titles line up, or plant love notes in romance books or ones that have significance for your relationship. (Just make sure to put the books back in their rightful place afterward!) Then find a quiet place in between the stacks to propose.

15. Host a Valentine's Day Party

Throw a Valentine's Day bash with your closest loved ones present. Work with your proposal planner to rent an event space and host a party as a cover for your proposal. Decide if you want others to know what's coming, or to experience the surprise alongside your partner. Pop the question at the end of the night, during a slow dance or toast to the evening.

16. Breakfast in Bed

Waiting until the end of the day to propose can be nerve-racking. Start off your Valentine's with a proposal, then celebrate your newly engaged status the rest of the day. While your partner is still in bed, make their favorite breakfast along with coffee or tea. Place the ring box on the breakfast tray before waking them up for the day. Get down on one knee when they open the box and see their engagement ring.

17. Vineyard Valentine's Day Proposal

Along with stellar wine selections, vineyards often boast gorgeous views. Take advantage of this beautiful backdrop for your Valentine's Day proposal. Pack a picnic to enjoy with your wine or arrange a private stroll through the vines. Choose a secluded spot where you can express how much you love your partner and ask them that very important question.

18. Valentine's Day Snowglobe Proposal

Shake things up with this cute winter-themed proposal! Create a custom snowglobe that has something special inside, like a photo of the two of you, a recreated scene of your first date or even the "Will you marry me?" words themselves. Present this to your partner as a Valentine's gift and watch their eyes light up as the snow falls and your message becomes clear.

19. Movie Night Proposal

Get cozy at home with blankets, your partner's favorite snacks and a romance movie. During a romantic speech, get down on one knee and recite the same lines to your partner. Then add your own heartfelt words as you ask them to marry you.

20. Valentine's Day Photo Booth

On your way to dinner or other Valentine's plans, conveniently walk past a photo booth and suggest taking pictures to remember the day. As the photo booth starts to snap each photo, pull out the engagement ring and ask your partner if they'll marry you. Make sure to do this semi-quickly so the camera captures the moment your partner says, "Yes."

21. Pop Culture Proposal

Is your honey obsessed with a certain TV show or movie? Choose a proposal spot tied to a pop culture favorite to make the moment extra special. For example, you could propose at the iconic fountain from Friends, in front of a Harry Potter-themed store or at a location featured in The Lord of the Rings. Build the proposal around the setting by incorporating quotes or themes from the franchise, or even dress up as your favorite characters. If traveling isn't an option, have a watch party for the two of you with themed food and drinks, or ask them to recreate a scene during which you'll propose, creating your very own happy ending.

22. Valentine's Day Dessert Proposal

Finish dinner with a romantic dessert. Whether you're out at a restaurant or at home, bring out your partner's favorite sweet treat complete with a sign or large candy heart that reads, "Will you marry me?" Talk to the restaurant ahead of time, order dessert from a local baker or make it yourself if you're skilled in the kitchen.

Photo: Studio Baraka,

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Expert Tips for Planning a Valentine's Day Proposal

From planning early to mapping out your budget, consider these expert tips from Grace and Virtue Events owner Kathryne Carter before you start planning your Valentine's Day proposal.

Start Planning Early

Valentine's Day is a popular time of year, so it's important not to wait until the last minute. "Especially if you are looking to make reservations in a public restaurant or an experience that sells tickets or has limited space," Carter says. Decide where you want to propose and make reservations as early as possible.

Discuss Any Expectations

Without giving away the surprise, discuss the expectations for the proposal. Carter suggests knowing if it should be a private or public moment and if friends and family are expected to be there. "If it is a large group, rely on a professional planner to support you with the logistics and planning," she says.

Think Outside the Box

Consider different experiences that are outside of the norm or unexpected for a Valentine's wedding proposal idea. "Think about you both as a couple and what you might do so that you can customize a moment that is just for the two of you," Carter says. Unexpected experiences also increase the chance of surprising your partner with a marriage proposal on Valentine's Day.

Create a Budget

Red roses, chocolates, restaurant reservations and more add up quickly, especially around Valentine's Day. "Think about the spending range you want to stay in," Carter says. Come up with a realistic spending plan and work with your proposal planner to stay within your budget.

Additional reporting by Shyla Watson