covid-friendly spring porposal ideas

8 COVID-Friendly Spring Proposal Ideas

Spring is just around the corner, making it the perfect time for an outdoor (and COVID-friendly) proposal!

8 COVID-Friendly Spring Proposal Ideas

If you’re looking for spring proposal ideas during the COVID era, we’ve got tips on planning the perfect one below. From beaches to camping, to drive-ins and hikes, there is a myriad of options to make your engagement unforgettable. As an added bonus, outdoor springtime proposals are usually also pet friendly – and who doesn’t want their unofficial, furry family members included on such a special day? Finally, if you’re in the market for an engagement ring, we’ve got good news for you: James Allen is always COVID-friendly. 

While planning a proposal can be a lot of work, just remember – within every spring lies the word ring. Coincidence? We think not. 

1. Hike Proposal with a View

If your partner loves exercise and nature, why not combine the two with a hike proposal? To get started, pick a trail filled with local flora and fauna. Revel at nature’s beauty as you make your way up to a scenic viewpoint – don’t worry, your hard work will pay off once you get to the top! Find a secluded spot with a great view and pop the question. 

Planning Tip: Spring proposal ideas can be sometimes thwarted by weather, so make sure to take into consideration the forecast (you don’t want rain or even a very cloudy day to dampen the mood), your partner’s level of fitness (most hikes are categorized into easy, medium and hard) and fill a backpack with water and snacks – just make sure not to forget the engagement ring!

Ring Tip: Consider an engagement ring that speaks to your partner’s appreciation of the outdoors like our Entangled Vines Ring.

Entangled Vines Engagement Ring

hike proposal
14K White Gold Entangled Vines Engagement Ring

2. Sunset Proposal at the Beach

There’s a reason why the beach is a classic spring proposal idea: the sea is as beautiful as it is romantic. If your significant other loves spending time on the coast, a beach proposal might be the way to go. Enjoy the gorgeous sky as the sun descends over a vast, blue ocean. Breathe in the gentle breeze before getting down on one knee and asking the question of a lifetime.  

Planning Tip: The coast is generally cooler than the inland, especially as the sun goes down, so make sure to bring jackets or blankets to account for the change in temperature. To make sure the timing is just right, be sure to check sunset times in advance and give yourself a buffer for any possible delays, like traffic jams and bathroom breaks. Romantic touches like candles and rose petals in the sand are best left for other settings – the wind will likely blow them away.

Ring Tip: Consider an engagement ring that evokes the serenity of the ocean and the beauty of the sunset, like our Rope Solitaire Ring. 

Rope Solitaire Engagement Ring

beach proposal
14K Rose Gold Rope Solitaire Engagement Ring

3. Lake Proposal

The ancient Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu advised: “Make your heart like a lake with a calm, still surface and great depths of kindness.” If you don’t live near the coast and your partner loves water, a lake offers an incredible backdrop for a proposal. Pack a picnic basket with your favorite foods and head out to the lake of your choice. Take in the beauty of nature reflected back at you through a still body of water, as you and your partner contemplate your future, together as one.

Planning Tip: Lakes are often surrounded by rocks, which can be uncomfortable to sit on. You might want to bring foldable chairs or a bench, in addition to a few blankets.

Ring Tip: Consider an engagement ring with sapphire accents, to give a pop of blue color, like this gorgeous French-Cut Pavé Ring. Or think about using sapphire as your center stone. 

French Cut Pavé Blue Sapphire Engagement Ring

lake proposal
14K White Gold French Cut Pave Blue Sapphire Engagement Ring

4. Field of Flowers

Springtime makes everything bloom, so what better place to celebrate your love than in a field filled with flowers? Whether lavender, daisies or tulips, flowers provide not only a gorgeous backdrop but also a sweet smelling setting. Be sure to check for superblooms in your area – rare opportunities in which an unusually high number of wildflowers bloom at the same time. Flowers are a staple of every relationship – why not use them to signal the start of your engagement?

Planning Tip: To really nail your spring proposal idea, make sure to take into consideration the color palate. For example, if you’ll be proposing in a field of yellow daisies, you might want to think about choosing a contrasting wardrobe to make your pictures pop. 

Ring Tip: Consider an engagement ring inspired by your surroundings, like the gorgeous flower design below. Or choose a fancy color lab diamond for a center stone that really pops.

Open Lace Pavé Halo Engagement Ring

field of flowers proposal
14K White Gold Open Lace Pave Diamond Halo Engagement Ring

5. Drive-In Movie Theater Proposal

If your significant other is a cinephile, a drive-in movie pays homage to their personal preferences while also being COVID-friendly. Pack your car with popcorn and your favorite candy. Think about which parking spot makes the most sense for a proposal – do you prefer to be towards the back, for more privacy? Would you propose before, after or during the movie? Drive in and get ready for the most memorable movie experience of your lives!

Planning Tip: Many drive-ins have limited movie selections, so be sure to research different options to understand in advance which movie your partner prefers. If you’re unsure, consider a classic romantic comedy, which is a propos for day’s events. 

Ring Tip: Consider an engagement ring that screams classic Hollywood, like this Art Deco Inspired design.

Art Deco Inspired Halo Engagement Ring

14K White Gold Art Deco Inspired Octagonal Halo Engagement Ring

6. Camping Proposal

This spring proposal idea is for the adventure seekers: if you and your significant other are the outdoors-y types, how romantic is a proposal under the stars? Escape the city and take advantage of all Mother Nature has to offer – hikes with spectacular views, crisp river water and cuddling over a campfire at night (don’t forget the s’mores!). You might even cross paths with wildlife like deer, elk or bears. Springtime offers the perfect weather for camping and lush greenery – and proposals! 

Planning Tip: Make sure to reserve your campsite well in advance and check the weather before heading out. If you don’t want to invest in a ton of camping gear, ask friends if they’d be willing to let you borrow their gear.

Ring Tip: Consider an engagement ring that gives a nod to the beauty of nature, like our Organic Bamboo Engagement Ring. 

Organic Bamboo Engagement Ring

camping proposal
14K Yellow Gold Organic Bamboo Engagement Ring


7. Bring Spring Indoors

If your significant other isn’t the outdoors type, you can still hit your spring proposal idea out of the park by bringing spring to you! Start by finding out your partner’s favorite flowers and filling your home with them. Sprinkle petals and light candles around the house for added effect. If you’re not the decorating kind, take to Pinterest for inspiration or enlist the help of a visually savvy friend. To make this sweet day even sweeter, top it off with your partner’s favorite dessert – what could be better than Calla Lilies and cupcakes or freesia and fondue? 

Planning Tip: Some flowers are harder to find than others, so make sure to take this into consideration when figuring out your timeline. Some people prefer potted plants because they last longer – it never hurts to do a little detective work to find out your partner’s preferences! 

Ring Tip: Consider an engagement ring that combines delicate beauty with strength and elegance. Our recommendation? A dazzling Petite Pavé design. 

Petite Pavé Engagement Ring

indoor proposal
14K White Gold Petite Pave Engagement Ring

8. Back-Up Plan

Life throws curveballs, so consider having a contingency plan. If all else fails, hit up your local outdoor farmers market (don’t forget your masks!), choose fresh ingredients and whip up a delicious dinner for two. You can also order a meal prep kit, which delivers all of the ingredients to your house, ready for you and your significant other to cook in unison. If you’re not the cooking kind, opt for a meal delivery service (also a great way to support your favorite restaurants!) paired with a beautifully set table and candles.

Ring Tip: Bring out the classics for this one! You’ll never go wrong with any of our best-selling solitaire, halo or three-stone designs.

Comfort Fit Solitaire Engagement Ring

backup plan proposal 1
14K White Gold 2mm Comfort Fit Solitaire Engagement Ring

Pavé Halo & Shank Engagement Ring

backup plan proposal 2
14K Yellow Gold Pave Halo And Shank Diamond Engagement Ring

Marquise Three-Stone Engagement Ring

backup proposal 3
14K Rose Gold Marquise Shape Three Stone Ring

Proposal plans sorted? Check out the articles below to get more inspiration!

Engagement ring catch your eye? Share the love on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat, or in the comments below!

Subscribe to our email list for access to secret sales, practical ring-buying tips, and $100 off your first purchase!

Jackie B.

Jackie is a writer who loves a good deal, especially when it comes to jewelry!

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Around-the-World Marriage Proposals: The Greatest Glow on Earth!

Love makes the world go round and we’ve got the awinspiring around-the-world marriage proposals to prove it!

around-the-world marriage proposals single row pavé infinity engagement ring martin flyer cover

Somewhere on this big blue marble we call home, a couple is getting engaged right now. By the time you finish reading this article, several hundred thousand more will have put a ring on it. Planet Earth is quite simply the place to pop the question – at least until commercial spaceflight becomes a thing.

In honor of World Post Day, we’ve rounded up our favorite around-the-world marriage proposals submitted by our international customers. Just as their love knows no borders, James Allen offers free shipping to over 30 countries worldwide. You could say we put the glow in global!

Around-the-World Marriage Proposals: Honduran Homebodies

14K White Gold Pavé Halo Diamond Engagement Ring (Cushion , Radiant, Emerald )
Pavé Halo Diamond Engagement Ring

Our round-the-world trip starts out in Zamorano, Honduras. Hopeful hubby Aaron left girlfriend Maria a note instructing her to meet him by a tire swing in their neighbor’s yard. As she waited obligingly by the swing, her knight in shining amour pulled up in a red vintage truck. He presented her with a bouquet of flowers and an impossible-to-resist pavé halo diamond ring, to which she couldn’t help but say yes. We love the sheer simplicity of this proposal and can practically taste the homemade baleadas wafting through the air! Read more

Around-the-World Marriage Proposals: Canadian Cascade

around-the-world marriage proposals single row pavé infinity engagement ring martin flyer
Single Row Pavé Infinity Engagement Ring by Martin Flyer

Next, we head north to Edmonton, Canada, and the scene of Carly and Roman’s gushing proposal. Roman whisked Carly off on a helicopter ride, stopping below a glacial waterfall for a picturesque mountaintop picnic. Using the Insta-worthy moment to his advantage, Roman pretended to set up the camera’s self-timer, but secretly hit record. The teary-eyed romantic then took the plunge and presented his love with a single row pavé infinity ring by Martin Flyer. Noticing that he was holding the box upside down, Carly quickly turned it right-side up and said yes through the laughter and the tears. Read more

Around-the-World Marriage Proposals: American Dream

18K Yellow Gold Petite Pavé Engagement Ring
Petite Pavé Engagement Ring

The next leg of our whistle-stop tour takes us to the City of Angels via France. Manon from France and fiancé Andrew from Texas were university sweethearts who somehow managed to make their intercontinental relationship work. While on a trip to Los Angeles to realize Manon’s lifelong dream of hiking to the Hollywood Sign, Andrew got down on one knee and proposed with a petite pavé ring. Serendipity may have brought them together, but it was their James Allen sparkler that made it official. Read more

Around-the-World Marriage Proposals: Mauritian Marvel

14K White Gold Diamond Split Shank Double Halo Pavé Engagement Ring
Diamond Split Shank Double Halo Pavé Engagement Ring

All the way over on the other side of the world, a man named Arreytambe was planning an altogether more tropical proposal. He invited then-girlfriend Bessem to visit him on the idyllic island of Mauritius, where he had moved for work. After they’d spent some time enjoying all the island has to offer, Arreytambe arranged a private dinner on the beach, complete with waiter service, hidden photographer, and drone cam. Bessem could barely contain her excitement when he got down on one knee and pulled out that diamond split shank double halo pavé ring. And who could blame her? It is quite stunning! Read more

Get down and sandy with more beach proposal inspo!

Around-the-World Marriage Proposals: Jamaican Joy Ride

14K Yellow Gold Falling Edge Pavé Diamond Engagement Ring
Falling Edge Pavé Diamond Engagement Ring

Our last stop takes us to Kingston, Jamaica and the aptly named Hope Gardens, where churchgoers Karamo and Renee got engaged. Karamo told a blindfolded Renee they were going out for a surprise dinner and drove around in circles to disorient her. In fact, he was planning to pop the question in a part of the sunken garden that he and his friends had decorated. Not even a few brief rain showers could dampen the mood of this joyous occasion. Needless to say, she said yes to him and her falling edge pavé diamond ring (in that order). Read more

Around-the-World Marriage Proposals: Bring It Home

Where (and how) on earth did you pop the question? Map it out for us in the comments below or over on Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, or Twitter.

Recently engaged with a James Allen ring? Share your proposal story with us and we may feature it!

No matter what time of year you’re planning to pop the question, we’ve got you covered. Choose your season:
Summer Proposals | Winter Proposals

Drop a pin on this international inspiration:

around-the-world marriage proposals pinterest pin

Subscribe to our email list for access to secret sales, practical ring-buying tips, and $100 off your first purchase!

Jonny Hart

Jonny is passionate about puns, adores alliteration, and finds diamonds positively facet-nating! Since joining James Allen, he has written the word 'sparkle’ 9,732 times and counting.

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Engagement Ring Shopping: Collaboration Vs. Surprise

Breaking with tradition, many couples are engagement ring shopping together, leaving the element of surprise for the proposal.

engagement ring shopping cover

The question of whether to surprise your SO with a ring or include them in the selection process is as old as time.

Well, that’s not strictly true.

It actually came about rather recently, with online engagement ring shopping offering a far more collaborative experience than traditional stores. But back to the question at hand: to surprise or not to surprise? That will largely depend on whether your SO is more of a romantic or a realist.

If they’re the type to swoon at the end of romantic movies, chances are they’re holding out for a sparkling surprise of their own. Then again, if your SO is the risk-averse type, they will probably prefer to be consulted on an item of such personal significance.

Engagement Ring Shopping: Surprise and Shine

engagement ring shopping falling edge pavé diamond
Falling Edge Pavé Diamond Engagement Ring

If your SO leaves the engagement ring shopping entirely up to you, they’re taking the jewelry equivalent of a trust fall. That is, they’re trusting you to choose what is sure to be their most prized possession; an accessory they’ll be wearing every day of their life. This might seem daunting at first, but it’s actually quite an honor and an opportunity to demonstrate how perceptive you are. If you have a tendency to notice small details, you’ll easily pick up on the trail of sparkly clues your partner has left behind

See what happens when couples try to design their partners’ dream engagement ring (spoiler alert: hilarity ensues!).

Can You Take a Hint?

engagement ring shopping can you take hint

If only there was some way to read the inner workings of your partner’s mind… to understand what they really mean when they say, “I’m marrying you, not the ring.” While that technology may still be a few years off, we do have a nifty drop-a-hint feature on JamesAllen.com. It’s a subtle way for your SO to let you know exactly what they want without the awkwardness of them having to say it.

Of course, there are other tried-and-tested ways to drop a hint that you should be on the lookout for. “Forgetting” to close the browser is a classic, but they may share their Pinterest boards with you or casually comment on a friend’s or celebrity’s engagement ring.

Engagement Ring Shopping: Band Together

engagement ring shopping band together

A recent study by The Knot found that roughly one third of couples collaborate on the engagement ring with their mates. People are starting to realize that the proposee is every bit as qualified to make the Big Decision as the proposer – if not more so. If your SO has expressed an interest in being involved beyond mere hint dropping, you’d be wise to take them up on the offer. After all, who better to advise you on ring style than the ring wearer herself?

Without a doubt, the best way to know your partner’s ring preferences is to have an open and honest conversation with them. If all goes well, try engagement ring shopping together and make mental notes of their ‘oohs’ and ‘ahs.’ Even if they do have a hand in selecting their ring online, they won’t know how it looks IRL until the big unveiling. With a bit of clever subterfuge, it’s still possible to throw your SO off the scent.

Help Is at Hand

engagement ring shopping help is at hand

If you’d rather collaborate with someone other than your SO, our Customer Service team is there for you 24/7 by live chat, phone, and email. They’ll help you pick out the ideal ring based on your partner’s particulars (don’t worry, you already know all the answers to their questions!). You can even request a Real-Time Diamond Inspection with a certified gemologist who will be happy to walk you through the finer points of your sparkler. And if you still want some face-to-face expert advice, visit our Georgetown, DC location.

Engagement Ring Shopping: Trust Your Instincts

The bottom line is that your shopping experience should be as comfortable as the ring on your true love’s finger. Go with whichever option feels right to you as a couple and then make it as gosh darn romantic as you possibly can!

Catch up on our proposal series, which covers everything from choosing the perfect sparkler to planning the magical moment itself.

Next in the series: discover the best proposal spots in major cities.

Will your ring be a total surprise or is your SO likely to advise? Let us know in the comments below or over on Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, or Twitter.

Pin this collaboration inspiration:

engagement ring shopping pinterest pin

Subscribe to our email list for access to secret sales, practical ring-buying tips, and $100 off your first order!

Jonny Hart

Jonny is passionate about puns, adores alliteration, and finds diamonds positively facet-nating! Since joining James Allen, he has written the word 'sparkle’ 9,732 times and counting.

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