HOW TO PLAN A PROPOSAL IN LAPLAND
The ultimate guide to get engaged during your trip in Finland.
Lapland is the unique bland of quiet wilderness and cosy atmosphere, creating the perfect romantic setting to ask your love in marriage.
Considering to propose
IN LAPLAND?
Proposing during a trip to Lapland, whether in autumn or winter, is an experience filled with enchantment. In winter, the landscape transforms into a snowy wonderland, imagine being surrounded by silent, frost-covered forests. The crisp Arctic air create a moment of pure intimacy and beauty.
​
In autumn, Lapland is equally mesmerizing. The forests are ablaze with vibrant hues of gold, orange, and red. The air is cool, and the quiet rustle of falling leaves creates a serene atmosphere. You might propose beside a still, glassy lake reflecting the fiery autumn colors, or while hiking through the wilderness as the sun sets in warm, amber tones.
I am Marion, a local photographer helping couples getting engaged in Lapland. Whether in the winter’s snowy embrace or the autumn’s colorful splendor, Lapland offers a stunning, unforgettable setting for an engagement. ​​
PLANNING YOUR ENGAGEMENT
My advices
1. WHY THE WILDERNESS IS PERFECT FOR A PROPOSAL.
In the quiet embrace of the wild, every tree, every mountain, and every star feels like it’s part of a grand design, crafted just for that moment. The rustle of leaves or the soft ripple of a lake replaces the need for music, while the vibrant hues of an autumn forest or the ethereal glow of the snow outshine any man-made decor. In nature’s sanctuary, simplicity becomes elegance, and the wilderness itself bears witness to your love.
In the wilderness, intimacy thrives in a way that no other setting can match. Proposing amidst nature strips away all distractions, leaving just the two of you surrounded by the raw beauty of the earth. There’s a deep sense of closeness, where the quiet amplifies the sound of your heartbeat and the softness of your words. In this vast, untouched landscape, it feels as though the world has paused for your moment, making it uniquely personal and profound.
2. WHY YOUR PROPOSAL SHOULD BE MORE THAN PRETTY PHOTOS.
The true magic lies in the authenticity of the moment, not in how perfectly it’s staged. When the moment is filled with genuine emotion, nervous smiles, heartfelt words, and the raw beauty of your surroundings, it becomes far more meaningful than any posed shot. Photos will reflect that natural joy and excitement, capturing the real love you share. Let the proposal be a deeply personal experience first, where the love between you shines brighter than any backdrop. The best memories are those that live in your heart, not just in a photograph.
3. DECOR or SIMPLICITY?
Choosing between decor and simplicity for a proposal depends on the essence of the moment you wish to create. Decor can add beauty, but simplicity allows the focus to remain on the love and connection you share.
In the quiet elegance of simplicity, nothing distracts from the raw emotion of the proposal, the words, the setting, and the feeling of being entirely present with each other. Simplicity embraces the purity of the moment, letting the natural surroundings or the intimacy between you be the only backdrop needed. It creates a sense of timelessness, where every detail feels meaningful because it's authentic. Whether it's a quiet proposal in the wilderness, at home, or somewhere deeply personal, simplicity lets love take center stage, creating an atmosphere that feels effortless and real.
4.WHEN TO START PLANNING?
-
Winter (December to March): If you’re dreaming of a snowy wonderland, start planning at least 3-6 months in advance. This allows time to secure accommodations, activities, and any special experiences you want to include.
-
Autumn (August to October): For proposals amid stunning autumn colors, start planning 2-3 months in advance. This timing will help you choose the best weeks for vibrant foliage.
5. BOOK YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER FIRST.
Booking your photographer before you start planning your proposal is a wise decision. Popular photographers, especially in sought-after locations like Lapland, can get booked up quickly, especially during peak seasons. By securing your photographer early, you ensure that you have someone talented and experienced to capture your special moment. Once you have your photographer lined up, you can collaborate with them to tailor your proposal plans. They can provide insights on the best locations, lighting conditions, and times of day that will enhance the quality of your experience.​
A photographer who understands the intimacy of this moment (Hi there!) can blend into the background, allowing for candid shots of the proposal and genuine reactions. This authenticity will reflect the true emotions of the moment, making the photos even more special.​ By prioritizing your photographer, you set the foundation for a beautifully documented proposal, ensuring that you can cherish those memories for a lifetime.
6.LOCATIONS TO PROPOSE IN LAPLAND.
​Levi
Levi offers a chairlift ride to the summit, allowing you to enjoy stunning panoramic views without breaking a sweat.
Pyhä
Less commercialized than some other tourist destinations, allowing for a more intimate experience. You can find quiet spots amidst the natural beauty, perfect for a private proposal away from crowds.
Sonka
Located just a 25-minute drive from Rovaniemi, Sonka offers a short and easy hike to the hilltop, where you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views and a peaceful, secluded atmosphere, truly a dream destination.
Riisitunturi National Park
Known for its beautiful fell landscapes and wintery spruce trees covered in snow, Riisitunturi offers a magical setting for a winter proposal.
​
Ruka
Ruka is an idyllic spot for a proposal, surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes of Lapland. For those seeking a bit of adventure, the Valtavaara Trail offers a stunning hike with unforgettable scenery.
7. SHOULD YOU PLAN A PROPOSAL UNDER THE NORTHERN LIGHTS?
Unpredictability:
The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon that can be difficult to predict. Even during favorable seasons, they may not appear every night, making it risky to plan a proposal around them. You might find yourself waiting for hours in freezing temperatures without seeing the lights, which could lead to significant disappointment.
​
Weather Conditions:
A clear sky is essential for observing the Northern Lights, and the weather in Lapland can be unpredictable. Cloudy conditions or heavy snowfall can obstruct your view.
​
Cold Temperatures:
Proposing outdoors on a cold night can be uncomfortable. Temperatures can easily drop to -30 degrees, or even -40 at times. The freezing Arctic air might detract from the romantic moment, leaving both of you focusing more on staying warm than on the significance of the engagement.
​
Limited Privacy:
Popular spots for viewing the Northern Lights can attract crowds, or you may have booked an aurora-chasing tour with a group, which could reduce the privacy of the moment. Sharing such a personal experience with others nearby might feel less special than in a more secluded setting.
​
In the end, while the Northern Lights are breathtaking, it might be more meaningful to choose a setting that allows you to focus on each other, ensuring the proposal is as memorable and intimate as possible. If creating memories under the auroras is important to you, you could always plan a celebration around the lights after the proposal.
8. ACTIVITIES
1. Husky Sledding Adventure
Book a husky sledding tour through the snowy wilderness. After an exhilarating ride, find a picturesque spot to propose, surrounded by the pristine landscape and the sounds of excited huskies.
​
2. Snowshoeing or Hiking
Take a snowshoeing or hiking trip to a scenic viewpoint. As you reach a breathtaking overlook or a tranquil forest clearing, take a moment to express your love and pop the question.
​
3. Reindeer Sleigh Ride
Enjoy a traditional reindeer sleigh ride through the snow. After the ride, you can propose in a picturesque spot, perhaps with warm blankets and a hot drink.
​
4. Snowmobiling Adventure
Embark on a snowmobiling tour through the stunning winter landscape. After an exhilarating ride, stop in a beautiful, remote location to propose, surrounded by the tranquility of nature.
​
5. Skiing
Spend a day skiing on the pristine slopes of Lapland. At the top of a mountain or a scenic viewpoint, take a moment to enjoy the view and propose while surrounded by the breathtaking landscape.
​
6. Bonfire Under the Stars
Organize a private bonfire in a scenic spot. Enjoy a warm fire, hot cocoa, and marshmallows, and propose under the stars for a magical, intimate atmosphere.
​
7. Private Dinner
Arrange for a private dinner in a cozy cabin or yurt. Create a romantic setting with candles and fairy lights, and propose during dessert for a truly memorable evening.
​
8. Sunset Proposal
Plan your proposal around sunset, either in autumn with the vibrant foliage or during the longer winter days. Find a viewpoint to enjoy the changing colors of the sky together before you ask the question.
9. HOW TO KEEP YOUR PROPOSAL A SECRET?
Create a cover story:​
Tell your partner the trip is purely for sightseeing or a special getaway, like a celebration of something else (e.g., birthday, anniversary). Present your romantic outings, such as husky sledding or a snowshoeing adventure, as typical vacation activities without hinting at the proposal.
​
How to keep your photographer incognito:
There are a few ways to have a photographer capture your proposal without raising suspicions. You could choose to have your photographer pretend to be a guide, or pretend to be a tourist if the activity involves a provider. You could also decide to have the photographer ready at the agreed location to capture the proposal from afar. If organizing a photo session isn't suspicious to your partner, you could also use that cover.
​
Hide the ring better than you think you need:
Places to hide an engagement ring during a trip abroad are limited. Your partner will most likely share a suitcase with you, so make sure to hide it in a place where they won't go looking for something.​ Swap the ring box for a slim, inconspicuous one that won’t create a bulge or draw attention. You can even use a small pouch or zippered wallet to make it less obvious. If you’re staying in a hotel, consider placing the ring in the hotel safe for added security until the proposal. Just make sure your partner doesn’t know about this, or they might ask to store valuables too!
10. ITINERARY EXEMPLE
DAY 1 :
10.30 : Meeting at your accommodation & departure to the location.
11.00 : Hike to the hilltop.
11.30 : Proposal at sunrise with the beautiful view.
11.45 : Champagne pop and celebration.
12.00 : Hike down while taking portraits.
19.00 : Private glass igloo dinner to spot Northern Lights.
DAY 2 :
09.00 : Meeting at your accommodation & departure.
09.30 : Reindeer farm visit.
YOUR PROPOSAL PHOTOGRAPHER IN LAPLAND
Hi! I’m Marion, a proposal photographer who fell in love with Finland. I specialize in creating authentic, unforgettable experiences for adventurous couples, while documenting your love story in the breathtaking Nordic landscapes. Whether it’s a secret proposal in the forest or an intimate moment atop a snowy hill, I’ll ensure your special day is uniquely yours and beautifully preserved. If you’re dreaming of a meaningful, nature-filled proposal, Finland should be at the top of your list!
