12 Winter Proposal Ideas to Make your Hallmark Movie Dreams Come True

01

Sleigh the day

It is finally the holiday season and this couple leaned into it. First of all, so many couples choose neutral tones for their winter shoot. That’s totally cute, but it also can remove some of the personality and definition from photos. This couple did not shy away from picking out clothes that went with a wintery ranch theme. We’ve got the flannel, we’ve got the cowboy hat (cute), we’ve got the boots. Also… they got a literal horse drawn sleigh in this magical falling snow. Totally unforgettable, private, and unique. Obviously, he sleighed this. 

02

Screw the elements

This couple decided to get out of the winter weather and opted for an igloo (aka bubble). These are usually temperature controlled and can have flowers and furniture in them, but give the feeling of being outside because they are translucent. This is a fun way to make a splash and have truly unique engagement photos. This also lets the couple to wear whatever they want regardless of weather, pop some chilled champagne, and not have to worry about outdoor factors.

Permission: @studio.barakat

03

Include your fur baby

Your pets are a part of your family… So why not let them in on the action? Give them a bath, get a cute collar, and let them romp in the snow for your pictures. It’s fun and now you’re getting a two-in-one family/engagement shoot. Pro tip: bring a friend to look after the dogs during your other shots or stay close to home so you can drop them off. We do not love the stress of getting them to stay put for the ones they aren’t included in.

04

Literally… Cover yourself in snow. Trust me.

This couple looks like they just had the most Hallmark movie snowball fight and snuggled up right after just for a photographer to randomly snap this pic. This is THE winter picture, people. The snow, the noses squished together, the winter accessories (gloves, hat, pearls)–this is kind of the quintessential winter engagement shot… Unless you are trying to show off your new ring. 

05

Let your personalities speak for themselves

Wintertime is simply gorgeous in a snowy area. So, almost anywhere you choose is going to make a great shoot that is truly focused on you, the couple. These shots capture how thrilled the couple is to be engaged. Going to an area closer by, too, is generally less time consuming and less expensive than heading to an elaborate destination. So, think about ditching the mountain top and going for a more casual, toned down shoot that still turns out some adorable photos. 

06

Find an extreme(ly beautiful) spot

Natural backdrops in the winter are gorgeous, especially when it is snowing. If you live in a snowy area, scope out some unreal places near you (and be wary that this means you could be caught in a snowstorm!). This gorgeous engagement shoot in Banff looks legitimately magical. The couple also took time to do some more whimsical and silly shots that show off their personality–a must for engagement shoots.

07

Let’s get physical

Everyone hates a boring photoshoot. Yes, we need to get those classic photos, but some really playful pics are so important to capture. Tackle each other, throw some snow, roll on the ground, and get laughing to loosen up a little. This process requires you as a couple to be vulnerable with the camera, so warm up a little and get some cute moments in the meantime! 

08

Think: boozy winter picnic

While the natural landscape in winter is beautiful, get some cozy vibes going with a little picnic. Throw down a rustic blanket, a portable fire, and break out the hot toddies. This is great for the couple that wants to opt for a less natural outdoor shoot or is thinking about a cozier vibe for their outdoor pics. 

Permission: @wanderlostelopements

09

Place you love + Person you love

Chloe and Ludvig were working at a ski resort together, and he ended up proposing to her on the very same mountain (is this too much to ask for?). This adventure couple managed to include a special place and a special activity in their shoot that produced pictures full of personality. This is also a fantastic way to incorporate a surprise proposal into your shoot–nothing suspicious about another activity day together!

10

Ditch the privacy

Having a little time just the two of you for the engagement shoot is adorable, and this couple captured that. Clearly, their family and friends were also there to celebrate the big moment, though, and it is so sweet to see that in the photos. Having that big group there seems like such a happy memory that the couple will cherish forever. They’ve got champagne and a bunch of really excited folks there; you’re about to spend the rest of your lives just the two of you, so what’s a little family time right now? If you’re the kind of couple that wants your favorite people there to party with after a big announcement, this is the inspo for you.

11

For the city slickers

This couple took pictures in a busier area and they turned out so classy and sweet. For the on-the-go couple living together in a metropolis, this could be a special way to include a place that is significant in your lives. This is also a great way to have clean, candid looking photos that feel less planned. 

12

Timeless NOT tacky

The reality of your engagement photos is that a lot of people will see them for many many years. This means that you should think deeply about outfits and some must-have shots. This couple nailed a neutral palette that does not distract from their love. They also got some timeless, romantic close-up shots to cherish forever. The soft winter light is so gorgeous in these and enhances the beauty of the couple.