Chicago Proposal Ideas:
Best Places for an Epic
Engagement
Chicago is a romantic and grand place to propose. There are so many beautiful iconic places full of color and beautiful backdrops. Coming up with great Chicago proposal ideas and planning the details may feel like a challenge… there are just so many beautiful places to choose from! But don't let all the details overwhelm you. The most important thing is that your proposal reflects you both as a couple, no matter how casual or grandeur it is.
Whether your style is uber-romantic, unique and eccentric, or private and intimate, we have some great suggestions to help you pick the perfect (and most photogenic!) proposal spot. Below we list some of our favorite marriage proposal ideas, the best places to propose in Chicago, as well as our tips on hiring a proposal photographer to capture it all.
What’s on this page?
Chicago Proposal Ideas
We've helped so many couples just like you plan and capture this momentous occasion, so we'd like to think we have learned a thing or two along the way. Allow us to give you some pointers.
Your proposal moment is not the best time to wing it. You want your future fiancé to feel like some serious thought went into it - it's a big deal! You have probably already been stressing about the big moment, but take a deep breath and start with our 4 tips to pulling off the perfect Chicago proposal:
Finding the Perfect Spot
Our favorite places to propose in Chicago are listed below! You have probably already daydreamed about the big moment, and it's important to imagine the type of proposal you want to have - romantic, intimate, adventurous, unique, or casual. Most importantly, your proposal should reflect you both as a couple. Once you have your proposal vibe in mind, you can start thinking about locations.
Keeping the Surprise Alive
Ensuring your proposal in Chicago remains a complete surprise is all about having a solid backstory. Discreetly gather information about your schedule and preferences to choose the perfect time and location for the proposal. Refrain from discussing specific plans openly with friends or family, and keep any physical signs of the engagement, such as the ring, well-concealed until the opportune moment to ensure the element of surprise. Don't forget to keep all digital communication secure during the planning process.
The Role of a Secret Proposal Photographer
Communicate clearly with the proposal photographer about the specific moments you want captured, such as the initial reaction or a scenic backdrop. There are two ways you can capture the moment:
Paparazzi-Style Shoot: A proposal photographer in paparazzi style discreetly captures the genuine reactions of the moment, blending into the surroundings with long lenses and strategic angles for an authentic and unposed record of the surprise proposal. To get many shots you might have to re-create the moment during the shoot, which is fun!
Book a Photoshoot and Propose Mid-Shoot: Choosing a pre-planned photoshoot allows for a seemingly ordinary session where the photographer, aware of the impending proposal, subtly guides the couple through poses. When the time is right, the proposer seizes the moment, creating a unique fusion of a professional
Preparing for the Proposal Moment
Practice getting down on one knee beforehand and think about what you will say. You don’t need to have your speech memorized but spend a little time jotting down what you’d like to say. Stick to an idea, not a script. Keep the ring secure and don't forget to finish with: Will you marry me?
Proposal Photographers in Chicago
We capture tons of proposals, so we've collaborated with our very own Chicago proposal photographers to curate a list of the most romantic and picturesque locations for popping the question. Take a look at the recommended spots below and book your shoot to capture the moment before the date gets booked up!
Best Places To
Propose in Chicago
Choosing a gorgeous destination is a great way to start, so you are already on the right track! We see a lot of engagements every week and know the best places to propose in Chicago. Check out our list below to start getting some Chicago proposal ideas.
Places To Propose In Chicago / 01
North Avenue Beach
North Avenue Beach in Chicago is a stunning and romantic location for a memorable wedding proposal. With the Chicago skyline as a backdrop and the beautiful shores of Lake Michigan, it provides a picturesque setting for a truly special moment that you'll both cherish forever.
Propose and Capture here!
Places To Propose In Chicago / 02
Olive Park
Olive Park, located near Navy Pier in Chicago, offers stunning views of the city's skyline, making it a perfect backdrop for a romantic wedding proposal. The park features lush greenery, beautiful pathways, and breathtaking views of Lake Michigan, providing the ideal setting for a memorable and picturesque proposal.
Propose and Capture here!
Places To Propose In Chicago / 03
Chicago Riverwalk
Consider the Chicago Riverwalk for a picturesque and romantic spot to propose. With stunning views of the city's iconic architecture, serene riverbanks, and beautiful landscaping, it sets the stage for an unforgettable wedding proposal.
Propose and Capture here!
Places To Propose In Chicago / 04
Lincoln Park
With its lush greenery, serene ponds, and stunning views of the city skyline, Lincoln Park provides a charming backdrop for a memorable and heartfelt moment.
Propose and Capture here!
Places To Propose In Chicago / 05
The Bean
The Bean, also known as Cloud Gate, at Millennium Park in Chicago, provides a stunning and reflective backdrop for a romantic wedding proposal. It's a truly enchanting setting for a memorable moment.
Propose and Capture here!
Places To Propose In Chicago / 06
Buckingham Fountain
Buckingham Fountain in Chicago, a symbol of grandeur and romance, sets the perfect stage for a timeless and unforgettable wedding proposal. With its majestic beauty and the iconic Chicago skyline as a backdrop, the fountain creates a magical and enchanting atmosphere, making it an ideal spot to start a new chapter of love and commitment.
Propose and Capture here!
Our Clients' Proposal Photography Stories
Alina was an amazing photographer and helped plan our engagement shoot very well. She's professional and very nice. Highly recommend!
– Lety
Hired for Chicago Photoshoot
Chicago Proposal Photoshoot Packages
Timeless Souvenir
The moment and the yes!
275
USD60 Minute Photoshoot
of the big moment & post-engagement
30 Digital Photos of Your Choice
Beautifully Edited & High-Res
One-on-one Planning
Collaborate with a Local
Private Online Gallery
Active for 6 months
Storyteller
Most Popular!
350
USD90 Minute Photoshoot
of the big moment & post-engagement
45 Digital Photos of Your Choice
Beautifully Edited & High-Res
One-on-one Planning
Collaborate with a Local
Private Online Gallery
Active for 6 months
Sightseer
Get the MOST photos
450
USD2 Hour Photoshoot
of the big moment & post-engagement
60 Digital Photos of Your Choice
Beautifully Edited & High-Res
One-on-one Planning
Collaborate with a Local
Private Online Gallery
Active for 6 months
The above proposal photoshoot pricing is for Chicago.
What's included in my photoshoot package?
Peace of Mind
Choose from vetted and highly rated personal photographers. Hassle-free booking and a travel-friendly refund policy.
Expert Photo Editing
All photography is edited for light, color, & composition to make your proposal photos gorgeous.
Local Tips
Your personal photographer also acts as an informal tour guide with all the best photography spots and local secrets for what to see, eat, & do in town.
How To Hire A Chicago Proposal Photographer
The moment you reach for the ring, adrenaline and emotions start to kick in and you might not even remember the moment! Hiring a secret Chicago proposal photographer for your surprise engagement will allow you to capture and relive that moment again and again.
Your marriage proposal is a story you will never tire of telling, so it definitely deserves better than selfies! Capture it with Chicago proposal photography that you'll look back on for years to come.
How does a proposal photoshoot work?
Before choosing a photographer, we recommend having some Chicago proposal ideas in mind first! There are two ways a proposal photoshoot usually happens:
- Hire the photographer for a “normal” photoshoot with your partner, but let the photographer in on your secret proposal plan! This is the best way to ensure the photographer captures the moment perfectly, usually at a closer distance and better positioned.
- The photographer can be waiting at the designated spot to secretly capture the moment, paparazzi-style. After the big moment, the photographer can introduce themselves and proceed to capture that post-engagement glow.
After your photo shoot is booked, you will be able to plan and coordinate with your photographer directly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a photoshoot cost?
Choose between 3 different packages that range from 60 minutes up to 2 hours. All Local Lens photographers are professionals that were handpicked for quality, style, and skill. There are no separate fees for marriage proposals, but we do require a 1 hour minimum.
How do they capture it? Are they hidden?
Depends on what you want! 1. The photographer can be hidden and ready to capture the moment, paparazzi-style. Afterwards, the photographer will introduce themselves and you both can enjoy a fun engagement photoshoot to capture the post-engagement glow. You might re-create the proposal again just to make sure you get a variety of proposal moment shots. 2. Another option is to book a normal photoshoot (you can say that a family member gifted you a shoot, or ask your SO if they would would want a local tour guide that takes photos) and then during the shoot propose and just the oportune moment in your chosen spot. This method usually results in the best photos. These photos will be perfect for your official engagement announcement, wedding website, save-the-date cards, and wedding invitations!
Can the photographer get flowers, champagne, or displays?
Usually. However, this depends on the photographer’s capacity to handle these details, and those extras will always incur an extra cost that is either paid to another provider or to the photographer directly. Those extras are usually worth it! Ask your photographer if they are able to help with those details and what the extra cost would be.
Can I get all the RAW photos?
How long does it take to get the photos?
Photos are edited for light, color, and composition and delivered in high-resolution JPEG format to you by email in a private online gallery within 5 business days. Your photographer will upload more than the amount of photos included in your photo package so you can pick all your favorites to keep. If you feel there is a certain photo or pose that is missing, we’ll be happy to look into it for you!
Can I purchase more photos or prints?
Yes! From your gallery, you can opt to purchase more digital photos, prints, canvas prints and more all from your gallery. We partnered with Bay Photo, some of the best in the business for professional art quality photography prints.
Can I buy a proposal shoot for someone else?
Yes! Purchasing a gift card is an easy way. You can also make the inquiry and book the photographer and then once you are ready to pass communication off, just change the contact preferences in your Local Lens account and then the photographer will switch over to communicating to the person you select.
Is getting a photographer really worth it?
The moment comes and goes in an instant. The better you capture it, the better you will be able to look back on the memory as the years go by.
