Holiday Proposals: Creative Ways to Pop the Question

The air gets a little crisper, the lights begin to twinkle, and a special kind of magic fills the holiday season. It’s no wonder so many people choose this time of year to ask one of life’s most important questions. A holiday proposal offers a beautiful blend of romance, nostalgia, and family celebration, making it an unforgettable moment. If you're looking for Christmas proposal ideas that are truly unique and memorable, you've come to the right place. We'll walk you through everything from sizing, to choosing a handmade engagement ring that feels just right, to timing the perfect moment to propose this holiday season.

Timing Your Holiday Proposal

When planning your holiday proposal, timing is everything. It can set the mood, involve loved ones, and ensure you have all the pieces in place for the perfect moment. For many, the weeks leading up to Christmas offer an opportunity to get a parent's blessing or share your intentions with close family. For example, Thanksgiving gatherings can be an ideal time to have those important conversations before the more intimate Christmas season arrives. This also gives you plenty of time to finalize your plans and, most importantly, secure the perfect custom engagement ring.

How to Get a Ring in Time for Christmas

One of the biggest questions people have when thinking about how to propose on Christmas is whether they can get the ring in time. It's crucial to understand the turnaround time for an engagement ring, especially if it's a made-to-order piece. Engagement rings require intricate craftsmanship, with stones that need to be carefully set in precious metals. This process takes time, and the complexity of the design and materials can heavily influence the production schedule.

Our turnaround time for a custom engagement ring is typically 3-8 weeks. If you're concerned about getting a ring in time for a Christmas proposal, reach out to us! We can sometimes expedite the production of a piece if your needed date is before the expected arrival time, though this depends on our current workload. We know how important this moment is.

To completely relieve any worry that the ring may not arrive on time, consider one of our in-stock engagement rings. These rings are ready-to-ship in just 1-3 business days after you place your order. The availability on each product listing is kept up-to-date, so if you see it, it's ready to ship! These in-stock rings are also a great way to get a spectacular engagement ring on sale, as many of them are on clearance for up to 40% off. If you’re having trouble finding an in-stock engagement ring in your desired size, please contact us and our customer service team can help you find an engagement ring in time for a proposal on Christmas.

How to Get Their Ring Size in Time for Christmas

After you find the perfect ring, you’ll need to figure out the size. There are a few ways to get a ring size in time for a Christmas proposal. You can try to find your partner’s ring size secretly, or you can propose with a placeholder ring. Proposing with a stand-in, like a ring pop or a simple band of tied string, allows you to get the best of both worlds: a surprise proposal and a chance to get the size exactly right later. You can then make a promise to help them pick out or design the perfect ring together.

If you want to find the size secretly, check out our blog post on Creative Ways to Get Your Partner's Ring Size Without Them Knowing. Getting a ring size secretly can only really get you an estimated size, so we suggest proposing with a stand-in if you’d like to surprise your partner. Getting the best-fitting ring size requires that you wear a custom sizer (made to match your desired ring’s width) for 1-2 days since fingers fluctuate in size over time due to heat, water, and diet. This is why we recommend the stand-in option.

If you'd like to get the perfect fit for a custom ring, the best way to ensure accuracy is with our custom sizers, which you can order here. The money spent on the custom sizer program will go towards the cost of the ring you order, so you aren’t being charged extra to get the size right! The first set of sizers that we send come in a tray featuring many sizes so we can get your estimated size (These work awesomely as stand-in rings for a proposal!) Your partner will appreciate getting the right size, and that they’ll get the opportunity to design their dream ring! You can see more info on the ring sizing program in its description, but feel free to contact us if you have other questions about it that aren’t answered there!

Once you order your ring with our two-step sizer program, we won't schedule your ring for production until you tell us your accurate size, giving you peace of mind that it will be a perfect fit. Since ring sizers can vary between jewelers, we always recommend confirming your size with our custom sizers. Using sizers from a different store can only be a rough estimate. By confirming your size with our custom sizers, your ring will be covered under our sizing guarantee.

Christmas Eve vs. Christmas morning proposals: pros and cons

Deciding whether to propose on Christmas Eve or Christmas morning can be a tough choice. Both offer different opportunities and vibes. Here's a quick look at the pros and cons:

Pros and Cons of a Christmas Eve Proposal

• Pro: This moment creates a romantic build-up to the big day, making the evening feel even more special.
• Pro: It's often a more private moment before the rush of family festivities begins on Christmas Day.
• Con: It may overshadow other holiday traditions, like gift opening.
• Con: Loved ones might miss being part of the big reveal and initial celebration.

Pros and Cons of a Christmas Morning Proposal

• Pro: It’s a magical way to start the day with a wave of joy and surprise.
• Pro: Family is often present, ready to celebrate with you immediately.
• Con: You may have less privacy if you want an intimate moment.
• Con: The proposal can get lost in the hustle and bustle of gift exchanges and holiday excitement.

Outdoor Christmas Proposal Ideas

The holiday spirit creates a romantic backdrop for a marriage proposal. Whether you’re dreaming of a cozy, intimate moment or a grand, festive surprise, an outdoor Christmas proposal can be truly magical. You just have to find the right location and the perfect ring to go with it.

From the sparkle of a snow-covered landscape to the glow of holiday lights, these settings provide a unique and stunning scene for your big moment. Let's explore some of the most charming outdoor Christmas proposal ideas that will leave your partner speechless.

Christmas Tree Farm Proposal

Imagine this: You and your partner are bundled up, sipping hot cider, wandering through rows and rows of evergreens, searching for the perfect Christmas tree. The air smells like pine and a light dusting of snow covers the ground, muffling the sounds around you. This simple, classic holiday tradition is an amazing setting for a surprise proposal. It's a low-pressure, familiar activity that feels completely natural, which is perfect for an unexpected moment.

To make it happen, you might want to call ahead to the Christmas tree farm and get permission, or even work with the staff to set up a specific spot. You can choose a secluded area to have a quiet moment alone, or you could find a pre-selected tree with a small, beautifully wrapped box underneath. As your partner turns to admire the tree, you can get down on one knee. The photos will be stunning, and every year when you go to pick out your tree, you’ll have a wonderful engagement memory to share. A Christmas tree farm proposal is a cozy and sentimental way to start your life together, and it's a great option for those who love the rustic, natural beauty of the outdoors.

Ice Skating Under the Stars

Is there anything more quintessential to a romantic winter holiday than ice skating? For many couples, gliding hand-in-hand across a frozen rink, surrounded by twinkling lights and festive music, is a classic date night. This activity is perfect for a spontaneous or planned Christmas engagement.

Many cities have beautiful, iconic ice skating rinks that are dressed up with holiday decorations. You can plan a visit to a famous rink like the one at Rockefeller Center in New York City or a more local, neighborhood spot. The trick is to find a way to make the moment private, even in a public space. You could wait for a less crowded time, or if you're feeling ambitious, you might be able to coordinate with the rink's management for a moment on the ice after hours. The festive atmosphere provides a natural high, and as you skate together under the open sky and string lights, you can stop, drop to one knee, and ask the question. The cheers from onlookers and the magical setting will create an unforgettable moment and a great story to tell for years to come. This is a perfect proposal idea for a fun, playful couple who enjoys adventure and winter activities.

Winter Walks & Festive Light Tours

The sheer beauty of holiday light displays offers a perfect, ready-made backdrop for a picturesque Christmas proposal. From walking through a botanical garden illuminated by millions of tiny bulbs to strolling down a historic neighborhood street with grand, decorated homes, a festive light tour is a wonderful and romantic idea.

You can make this a surprise by simply suggesting a scenic walk after dinner or an evening drive to see the local decorations. As you wander through a particularly beautiful section, you can stop and take a moment to admire the view. The twinkling lights and vibrant colors create a stunning visual. This is the ideal time to express your feelings and propose. For a more intimate moment, you can find a quiet bench or a tucked-away gazebo within the display. If you want to make it an even bigger event, you could consider hiring a professional photographer to discreetly capture the moment as a surprise holiday photo session. A proposal surrounded by festive lights is a heartfelt and deeply romantic gesture that truly captures the magic of the Christmas season.

Snow-Covered Mountain Escape

For the couple that loves adventure and scenic views, a proposal in a winter wonderland destination could be the perfect choice. Consider planning a weekend getaway to a ski resort or a cozy cabin in the mountains. The fresh, crisp air, the breathtaking mountain views, and the quiet solitude of a snowy forest provide a truly intimate setting.

You could propose at the top of a ski lift with a panoramic view of the mountains, or after a day of winter hiking on a snow-covered trail. Another great option is to find a remote, scenic spot near your cabin, perhaps by a frozen lake or a roaring fire pit. The natural, untouched beauty of a snowy landscape is incredibly romantic and provides a dramatic, cinematic backdrop for a marriage proposal. This is a great choice for an outdoor enthusiast who wants a proposal that feels grand and personal at the same time.

Charming Christmas Market Proposal

European-style Christmas markets have become a popular holiday tradition in many cities and towns, and they offer a unique and lively environment for a proposal. These markets are often filled with the wonderful scents of roasted nuts and spiced cider, the sounds of carolers, and the sight of handcrafted goods and festive decorations.

Plan a casual outing to the market. You can wander through the stalls, sharing a warm drink and enjoying the festive energy. When you find a quiet corner or a beautiful spot, perhaps near the market's main Christmas tree or a charming little food stall, you can pop the question. The joyful atmosphere of the market will amplify the happiness of the moment. This is a wonderful proposal idea for a couple who loves to travel, try new things, and enjoy a vibrant, festive holiday season together. It’s a low-key and fun option that you can make entirely your own.

Romantic At-Home Christmas Engagement Ideas

While a grand, public gesture can be wonderful, an intimate Christmas engagement at home can be just as magical and deeply personal. For many couples, their home is a shared space filled with memories, making it the perfect place to start a new chapter. It's an opportunity to create a moment that is truly yours, free from the pressure of an audience and focused entirely on the two of you.

Propose Under the Christmas Tree

The Christmas tree is often the centerpiece of holiday décor, making it a natural focal point for a holiday proposal. Imagine the scene: the lights are twinkling, a fire is crackling, and you're surrounded by the warmth of the season. You can choose a moment when the family is gathered around the tree, making the proposal a part of the festivities and a shared, meaningful memory for everyone. This also guarantees plenty of people will be on hand to capture the moment.

For a more private approach, you can set the stage with a romantic holiday theme. Consider draping the tree with a few special ornaments that tell the story of your relationship. You could also hide the ring in a Christmas stocking, a beloved Christmas tradition. Or, for a fun and unexpected twist, you could hang the ring on the tree itself as a special Christmas ornament. This makes for a great photo opportunity and a memory you can revisit every year when you decorate the tree.

Personalized Advent Calendar Proposal

An advent calendar is all about building anticipation, which makes it a perfect tool for a Christmas engagement. Instead of just candy or small gifts, you can design a personalized advent calendar that counts down to the day you plan to propose. Each door can hold a small memento, a photo from a memorable date, or a clue that leads to a shared memory. The final door of the calendar can reveal a beautifully crafted ring box with your engagement ring.

This type of Christmas proposal idea is a thoughtful way to show how much you care. The journey leading up to the question becomes a cherished part of the story, filled with personalized touches. It allows you to celebrate your relationship in a unique and creative way before getting down on one knee.

Christmas Treasure Hunt

A scavenger hunt adds a playful element to the proposal, turning it into an adventure you can share together. You can craft a Christmas-themed treasure hunt with clues hidden in different parts of your home, each one leading to the next. For instance, the first clue could be in a Christmas book you love, and the next clue might be hidden in a favorite holiday decoration.

This creative way to propose can be as simple or as elaborate as you want. Each clue can reference a special moment you’ve shared, a favorite inside joke, or a cherished memory. The final clue, of course, leads to the perfect spot where you can propose with the engagement ring. This is a perfect Christmas proposal idea for couples who love a good game and a bit of playful mystery.

Incorporate Family Traditions

Many families have unique holiday traditions that can be woven into a proposal, making it even more personal. For example, some families have a tradition of opening one present on Christmas Eve. You can place the ring box inside that special gift, creating a memorable holiday proposal. When they open the gift, the surprise of the ring will make the moment even more special.

Another option is to propose during a family game night or while watching a classic Christmas movie. Proposing during a shared tradition makes the moment feel incredibly authentic and adds a layer of shared meaning for your family. Ultimately, the best Christmas proposal is one that feels true to you as a couple, and using a beloved tradition is a great way to make it happen.

The Ring: Make It Holiday-Inspired

When you think of Christmas, what comes to mind? For many, it's the classic colors of red and green. Incorporating just one of these colors into an engagement ring can be a beautiful and subtle nod to the season. If any of these rings are almost perfect and you’d like to change something (or even most) about it, just click “Customize This Item” in any listing.

Ruby Engagement Rings and Red Wedding Bands

Think about using a deep red gemstone as the centerpiece of the ring. A stunning ruby, for example, can be a perfect choice for a unique engagement ring. The vibrant red of a ruby is both classic and eye-catching, making it a wonderful alternative to a traditional diamond. You can explore our collection of ruby engagement rings for inspiration. A good pairing for a red stone would be a red wedding band.

Green Engagement Rings and Wedding Bands

Green gemstones are another excellent way to add a touch of Christmas to a custom engagement ring. Emeralds, tsavorite garnets, or even green sapphires can bring a rich, natural feel to the design. Green gemstones symbolize growth, renewal, and nature, making them a meaningful choice for a custom engagement ring. Take a look at our green engagement rings to see how these gems can be used in beautiful and unexpected ways. We have a collection of green wedding bands where you can find the perfect groom’s ring to match a green engagement ring.

Sapphire Engagement Rings and Blue Wedding Bands

Beyond the classic Christmas colors, you can also think about incorporating other elements that evoke a winter or holiday feel. Maybe it's a ring with an icy blue sapphire, reminiscent of a crisp winter sky. A sapphire is a timeless and elegant choice, and our collection of sapphire engagement rings shows just how versatile this stone can be. Browse our sapphire engagement rings here and you’ll see just some of the possibilities that exist for it! For a blue sapphire engagement ring, a matching blue wedding band for the groom would be a perfect fit.

Nature-Inspired Engagement Rings

If you love the idea of a Christmas proposal but want a more personal and less overtly festive design, consider a nature-inspired engagement ring. These custom rings often feature beautiful leaf-like elements, intricate branch designs, or natural materials like wood. They can evoke the quiet beauty of a winter forest or the evergreen spirit of the season. These designs are a perfect way to capture the feeling of a cozy winter evening while creating a unique engagement ring that will be cherished year-round. Browse our nature-inspired engagement rings here.

Propose With a Sizer as a Promise to Design a Ring Together

If you’re not sure about proposing with a custom ring, you can use a placeholder ring or a stand-in ring for the Christmas proposal. You can show your partner some of the designs that you think they’d like so that they can be part of the design process for the final piece. Proposing with a temporary ring is a great way to show you’ve put thought into the moment while ensuring the final ring is exactly what they’ve always dreamed of. We suggest ordering our ring sizing program as mentioned before, since these sizers make for great stand-in rings.

Let Jewelry by Johan Help Make Your Holiday Proposal Unforgettable

Designing a custom engagement ring can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. Our team of expert jewelers is here to guide you through every step of the process. We specialize in creating one-of-a-kind pieces that are as unique as your relationship. Whether you’re looking for a holiday-inspired ring or something completely different, we can help bring your vision to life. We work with a wide range of materials, from classic metals to unique inlays like wood, meteorite, and antler, allowing for a truly personal and meaningful design.

Creating a custom engagement ring for a Christmas proposal is a beautiful way to show your love and commitment. It's a ring that will not only be a symbol of your engagement but also a reminder of that special holiday season when you started your journey together. Let us help you design a piece that tells your story and becomes a cherished part of your family's history. We are here to help you create a ring that will be treasured for a lifetime.

We are experts in creating unique, nontraditional rings, including those with unique materials like meteorite or dinosaur bone. Your ring will be a true one-of-a-kind piece! We don’t just work with our in-house materials; we can also incorporate materials you provide, such as a family gemstone, into a new, custom setting. If you have a trophy deer antler from a hunting trip you took together, or a sentimental piece of wood, we’d love to put them into a custom engagement ring for you. We’ve been handcrafting custom engagement rings since 2008, both traditional and nontraditional, including gender-neutral designs and custom rings for all couples.

We can help you create a ring that captures the spirit of the season and your unique love story. No matter how much or how little of your custom ring design you have planned, we’d be honored to guide you. Start designing your custom Christmas engagement ring here today.