Tiffany Burbidge Tiffany Burbidge

All Perfect Ways We See Couples Get Engaged During the Holidays

Discover unforgettable ways to propose during the holidays at Sparks Museum & Event Center. From romantic settings to personalized touches, make your engagement special.

Discover magical proposals and how to make your holiday engagement truly unforgettable.

TL;DR (Quick Takeaways)

  • Holiday engagements are incredibly romantic and memorable.

  • Unique proposal ideas, from intimate gatherings to grand celebrations.

  • The importance of choosing the right setting, especially at Sparks Museum & Event Center.

  • Signature twists that make proposals extra special.

  • Practical tips for planning the perfect holiday engagement.

The holiday season isn’t just a time for joy, good food, and gathering with loved ones. It’s also one of the most popular times for couples to take a step further in their relationships and get engaged. The cold air, twinkling lights, and festive decorations create a magical backdrop that makes moments shared by couples feel even more special. If you’re considering popping the question during the holidays, you’re in for a treat—there are countless perfect ways to get engaged that not only create memories but also embrace the spirit of the season.

Imagine asking the love of your life to marry you by a beautifully decorated tree or under a snowy sky. It’s enchanting and unforgettable, filled with warmth and love. At Sparks Museum & Event Center, we love witnessing these magical moments. Our historic venue, with its architectural charm and cozy ambiance, provides the perfect stage for a proposal that is sure to sweep your partner off their feet.

In this article, we will explore various ways to propose during the holidays, tips for planning a holiday engagement, and how to incorporate personal touches that reflect your unique love story.

Winter proposals with twinkling lights

Couple getting engaged under twinkling holiday lights in a cozy environment.

1. Under the Twinkling Lights

One of the most quintessential ways to propose during the holiday season is to find a spot decorated with beautiful twinkling lights. Whether it’s a park, your backyard, or a bustling downtown area, lights have a way of creating a magical atmosphere.

Imagine leading your partner to a serene part of a local park lit up by fuchsia lights for a heartfelt proposal. In physical settings like Sparks Museum & Event Center, the vintage decor complemented by elegant period lighting creates an enchanting ambiance for these special moments. You can also set up a small picnic with hot cocoa and cookies to make the moment even more intimate.

“The beauty of the lights reflects the love shining between us.”
— Tiffamy Sparks

2. Winter Wonderland Retreats

Consider planning a getaway to a winter wonderland retreat where you can enjoy cozy lodgings, crackling fires, and the great outdoors. It’s a picturesque backdrop for a holiday proposal!

Before your trip, plan activities to engage in together, like ice skating or snowshoeing. Then, on an evening, while gazing out at the snow-capped mountains from your cabin balcony, you can kneel down and ask your partner to be yours forever. If you’re looking for a local experience, figure skating at Provo’s outdoor rink is a fun option!

3. Surrounded by Family

For many couples, getting engaged during a holiday family gathering can be a sweet way to make the moment special. The warmth of family support and joy can enhance the experience.

Choose a significant holiday event, like Christmas or New Year’s Eve, where you can gather family and friends. As the evening progresses and everyone is feeling festive, ask everyone to say a few words—then turn to your partner and express your love before popping the question. It’s a heartwarming scene filled with laughter and happy tears.

“Celebrating love with the ones you cherish most creates the best memories.”
— Brae Burbidge

4. At a Beautiful Event Venue

Choosing a beautiful venue for your proposal is essential. It sets the stage for the experience and enhances the overall atmosphere. Sparks Museum & Event Center is an ideal spot, combining timeless elegance with character. With its vintage Americana charm and stunning architectural details, every corner tells a story, making it a breathtaking backdrop for a memorable engagement.

Whether you’re planning a grand ballroom-style proposal or a cozy corner with beautiful decor, the venue provides the perfect canvas for your love story. Climbing the vintage staircase together for a beautiful view of the overall space adds an exciting twist!

Sparks Museum holiday decor

The stunning Barr Room of Sparks Museum with holiday decorations setting the perfect romantic proposal backdrop.

5. Destination Proposals

Consider whisking your partner away on a spontaneous romantic trip during the holidays. Popular winter destinations, like Lake Tahoe or Aspen, elevate the holiday spirits and provide a dramatic atmosphere.

Asking your partner to be life partners under picturesque snowy landscapes or during a romantic dinner at a cozy cabin is not only unique but full of charm. The cozy ambiance combined with stunning natural beauty transforms the moment into a fairy tale.

“Every milestone in life shines a bit brighter when shared in beautiful places.”
— Noah

6. Personalize with Favorite Traditions

Find a way to incorporate small details from your favorite holiday traditions into the proposal. Maybe you both love baking cookies together or watching holiday movies.

Create a proposal that involves a scavenger hunt around your favorite spots, leading your partner to places that hold sentimental value. You could end at Sparks Museum & Event Center, where you set up a cozy spot with your favorite treats waiting for them. Imagine the surprise as they step in, and you ask them to marry you!

“Incorporating traditions brings a personal touch that celebrates your love.”
— Gabby Burbs

7. Using Keepsakes

Plan a proposal that incorporates heirlooms or meaningful keepsakes that symbolize your relationship. It could be a family ring, a handwritten note from your first holidays together, or a ticket from the first movie you watched.

Incorporating these items adds depth and significance to your proposal, making it all the more special. You might share the story behind each item and end with your actual proposal declaration, making the moment unforgettable.

8. Themed Proposals

Since the holidays are filled with various themes, why not choose a theme that resonates with both of your personalities? Whether it’s a winter wonderland, retro holiday event, or classic elegance, use decoration and attire to carry the theme.

For a themed proposal at Sparks Museum, consider hosting a small party with a few friends. Use elements that resonate with your unique relationship, from decorations to the ambiance. You can announce your engagement during the celebration, surrounded by those who matter most!

“Creative proposals bring extra flair—you’ll remember it forever!”
— Tiffany Burbidge

9. Surprising Elements

An engagement proposal is all about the excitement leading to your final question. You can enhance this experience through surprising elements, such as music, fireworks, or even a flash mob. Whatever it is, it should capture the essence of your relationship.

At Sparks Museum & Event Center, the architectural beauty can be accentuated with live music or even a hired musician to perform a special song. These impromptu moments often become the most talked about!

Family gathering proposal

A couple getting engaged surrounded by family at a holiday gathering.

10. Reasons to Get Engaged During the Holidays

Sharing the joy of engagement with family and friends enhances the memories. Plus, crowds are often merry with ripe opportunities for celebration. You could also share cute photos with holiday-themed backdrops, bringing even more cheer into your announcements on social media.

Reflecting on the importance of commitment during such a season of giving can also stir deep emotions that connect partners more closely.

Tips and Tricks for Planning Your Perfect Proposal

11. Choose the Right Ring

Choosing the perfect engagement ring is crucial for every proposal. Take cues from your partner’s style, whether they prefer vintage-inspired styles, minimalist designs, or something more extravagant. Not every engagement ring has to fit the mold—personalizing it makes all the difference.

12. Timing is Everything

When planning a holiday engagement, timing is essential. Choose a moment when your partner is relaxed, surrounded by family and laughter. With the natural holiday spirit in the air, ensure there are no distractions that would draw attention away from the moment.

Whether it's before the holiday dinner or a midnight toast on New Year’s Eve, find a time that feels right. A little privacy amidst the celebrations can also enhance the intimacy of the proposal.

13. Prepare What to Say

In the heat of the moment, it might be easy to forget what you want to say. Prepare a few heartfelt notes in advance to make your vows meaningful. Reassuring your partner of your commitment and love will provide the emotions-based foundation every engagement should have.

14. Have a backup plan

Outdoor proposals are breathtaking but can be affected by the unpredictable winter weather. Always prepare a backup plan that allows indoors so that you can still have the magical moment without worrying about rain or snow ruining your plans. At Sparks Museum & Event Center, you will find a picturesque space that feels cozy regardless of the season outside!

15. Capture the Moment

Consider hiring a photographer to capture the moment discreetly. Documenting your engagement will allow you to look back fondly on the excited memory years later. Your engagement story will forever stay timeless, adding another layer to the existing tales in your love story.

FAQs

What are the most popular holiday proposal ideas?

Popular holiday proposal ideas include proposals under twinkling lights, at family gatherings, and cozy winter getaways. Each option offers unique ways to make the experience special, incorporating personal nuances that resonate with couples.

Why are the holidays a good time to get engaged?

The holidays are a good time to get engaged because the atmosphere is filled with joy and warmth. Families often come together, making it an excellent opportunity for celebration, sharing, and forming lasting memories.

What should I do if my partner doesn’t love surprises?

If your partner doesn’t love surprises, consider a more relaxed approach. You can communicate your intentions and ask for their input on the proposal style. This teamwork can make the moment feel just as magical and memorable for both of you.

How can I make my proposal more personal?

Incorporate personal touches to make your proposal more special—think about your unique memories, shared traditions, and heirlooms. These elements can add meaning and depth, enhancing the sentiment behind the moment.

Should I ask for my partner’s family’s blessing?

Traditionally, it’s preferable to ask for your partner’s family’s blessing, especially during the holidays when family bonds strengthen. This respect can show your commitment not just to your partner but also to their family—it's an excellent way to establish good relationships early on.

Engaging during the holidays is a magical experience filled with love, joy, and unforgettable moments. Whether you choose to propose under twinkling lights, create special traditions, or center the moment around family and friends, each option captures the essence of love during this special season.

At Sparks Museum & Event Center, you’ll find a stunning venue where historic elegance meets modern functionality, perfect for creating memories that will last a lifetime. Remember to personalize your approach—every love story is unique, and your proposal should reflect that special bond.

So, are you ready to take the leap into a life filled with love? If you’re looking for the perfect venue for your holiday proposal that combines character and charm,book your tour today! Schedule a walkthrough with our team, and let’s make your vision come to life!

Let’s capture the magic of the holidays together—visit us and see the magic yourself!

Thanks so much for stopping by our blog! We hope you found this information helpful. We’re passionate about using our blog to shine a light on locally owned wedding venues. These venues often bring a higher level of expertise, service, and dedication to your big day. Plus, with less staff turnover than corporate or investor-owned venues, they’re able to provide a more personal touch. As you plan your wedding, we’d love for you to consider a locally owned venue like ours! Check out this wedding venue map to discover amazing locally owned venues across the country. And a big shout out to all the incredible locally owned wedding venues out there!

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Tiffany Burbidge Tiffany Burbidge

Crazy Ways We Know to Get Engaged That Will End the Romance!

Think proposing with a flash mob is cute? Think again. These 10 hilarious engagement fails might just ruin your romance. Find out what not to do—then book a real reception at Sparks Museum in Provo.

(And Why You Shouldn’t Do These in Utah County)

You’ve been planning this moment for months—maybe years. But hold up. Before you leap out of a plane holding a ring in your teeth or hide a diamond in a meatball, let’s talk about the kinds of proposals that might just end in a breakup before the wedding even starts.

Welcome to your ultimate list of what not to do when proposing in Utah County (or anywhere else)—and what to do instead.

Why Engagements Go Viral… and Then Go Very Wrong

Thanks to TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, wild engagements have become their own category of chaos. But for every viral success, there are a dozen epic fails that didn’t make it , with no way of return. As in Indiana Jones no way to return.

From choking hazards to fainting brides-to-be, here’s your funny (but true) guide to proposals that you’ll laugh at—just don’t try them yourself. PLEASE!!!

The Top 10 Proposal Ideas That Sound Good… But Aren’t

1. Hiding the Ring in Food 🍝

Engagement ring being placed in vanilla soft serve ice cream cone during proposal

Yummy, Gold Flavor

Nothing says “I love you” like an ER visit. Rings in cake, champagne flutes, or Ice Cream? Food is meant to be eaten, not dissected like a treasure hunt.

Real story: Man stuck his ring in an ice cream cone and it was magical… Nope.

2. Never in a Fast Food place!

You’ve spent hours choreographing this at the Provo Mall McDonald’s. But what if your partner hates public attention and the chicken Nuggets or the Soft Serve is out? Now you’re sweaty and alone on the sidewalk.

3. Public Proposals with Zero Privacy 🏟️

Big crowd? Big embarrassment. If you pop the question at a game, just pray the camera cuts away if she says no. Not everyone wants 10,000 strangers watching a life decision.

4. Social Media-First, Girlfriend-Second 📱

If you ask her to marry you while livestreaming on Instagram... yikes. If she finds out everyone knew before she did, prepare for an “I need space” text.

5. “On a Cliff” Engagements 🧗‍♂️

Look, we love the Bridal Veil Falls (Real Place) too. But dangling over a waterfall with a diamond in hand just screams “insurance claim.” Romantic? Maybe. Risky? Always.

A man kneels on slippery rocks mid-proposal at the edge of a waterfall, holding a ring as his unsuspecting girlfriend smiles—seconds before he loses his footing and tumbles into the rushing water below in a failed engagement stunt.

This is how a stuntmanproposes to a stuntwoman.

6. Over-the-Top Fake Emergencies 🚨

He faked a plane crash just to propose. 😳💍 She said yes… after her heart restarted. This is NOT the altitude we meant when we said ‘take her breath away.’

Take her breath away

Some people stage fake breakups, car accidents, or plane engine failures. That’s not romantic—that’s trauma with extra steps.

7. “Surprise! I Invited Everyone You Know” 📣

If your fiancé wanted to say yes in front of her old seminary teacher and ex-boyfriend, she’d let you know. Surprises are fun—ambushes are not.

8. Weird Locations with Zero Romance 🛒

Unless you met at the Provo Costco and bonded over churros, maybe don’t propose in aisle 12. Romantic locations still matter. So skip the gas station.

9. Using pets that aren’t trained 🐍

He popped the question… while a giraffe tried to photobomb the romance! 🦒💍 Because what’s a proposal without a little wildlife chaos

He popped the question… while a giraffe tried to photobomb the romance! 🦒💍 Because what’s a proposal without a little wildlife chaos


The dog swallows the ring. The cat hides it. The lizard crawls under the fridge. Or… A Giraffe makes the first move! If your animal isn’t part of a magician’s act, leave it out of the proposal.

10. Doing It on a Holiday You’ll Regret 🎃


Valentine’s Day? Too cliché. Halloween? Just... no. You’ll forever associate your anniversary with Cupid or a skeleton costume. Be original, not spooky.

When it comes to proposing think twice and stay away from trying to be original to the point your engagement goes wrong.

We are dedicated to using our platform to support locally owned wedding venues. In every blog we write, we will include 5 to 10 locally owned wedding venues who use their articles to support their colleagues and the wedding industry in ways that are not always recognized but are essential. If you are searching for a wedding venue, please consider a locally owned venue, you can find locally owned wedding venues featured on this wedding venue map.

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