Same-Sex Marriage Proposal: Ideas, Tips & Photos
Planning a same-sex proposal? While LGBTQ+ proposals share many similarities with heterosexual engagements, there are unique aspects that make them even more special. This guide explores creative lesbian proposal ideas, gay proposal inspiration, double proposals, surprise engagements, and the best destinations for LGBTQ+ couples to pop the question.

Who Pops the Question in a Lesbian or Gay Proposal?
One of the most common questions we receive is: Who proposes? The answer is—there are no rules! Some lesbian couples discuss it in advance, others wait to see who takes the initiative, and many choose to propose to each other simultaneously (a double proposal!). The same applies to gay couples. The most important thing is that it reflects your love story.
Double & Surprise Proposals: Making It Special
A double proposal is when both partners decide to propose to each other, often at the same time. This is common among gay and lesbian couples who want to create an equal and shared moment. The beauty of this approach is that it allows both partners to pick out rings together and plan a meaningful event.
For those who love surprises, a surprise double proposal takes it up a notch. In this case, one person secretly plans the proposal but brings two rings—allowing both partners to exchange rings in the moment. It keeps the element of surprise while ensuring both partners get their special moment. Whether planned or spontaneous, a double proposal is a beautiful way to celebrate love together.
Romantic Proposal Ideas for LGBTQ+ Couples
If you’re looking for ways to make your gay or lesbian proposal truly unforgettable, consider these creative ideas:
- Flash Mob Proposal: Surprise your partner with a choreographed dance or live performance leading up to the big question.
- Destination Proposal: Plan a surprise getaway and propose at a scenic landmark or on a secluded beach.
- Scavenger Hunt: Lead your partner through meaningful locations from your relationship, ending at a proposal spot.
- Private Chef Dinner: Hire a chef to create a personalized meal at home or in a romantic setting, with a proposal at the end.
- Adventure Proposal: If you’re an adrenaline-loving couple, propose during a hot air balloon ride, while skydiving, or after a thrilling hike.
Best Gay & Lesbian Proposal Destinations
Where you propose should reflect your personality as a couple. Whether you love the energy of a big city or the serenity of a beach, here are some of the top destinations for LGBTQ+ proposals:
New York
With its vibrant LGBTQ+ community, iconic landmarks, and countless romantic spots, NYC is a dream gay and lesbian proposal destination. Some of the best spots to propose in NYC include:
- A rooftop with skyline views
- Central Park (Bow Bridge, Bethesda Terrace)
- Brooklyn Bridge at sunrise
- Rockefeller Center Ice Rink in winter
Puerto Vallarta Mexico
Puerto Vallarta has long been a top gay travel destination. With its stunning beaches, romantic sunsets, and thriving LGBTQ+ scene, it’s perfect for a lesbian or gay proposal. Some of the Best Places for a Puerto Vallarta proposal spots include:
- Los Muertos Pier
- A private boat tour at sunset
- The Malecón boardwalk
- A romantic beachfront dinner
Cabo
If you and your partner are beach lovers, Cabo offers countless romantic gay and lesbian proposal settings. Some of the best Cabo proposal spots include:
- A private yacht proposal
- Sunset horseback riding on the beach
- Scuba diving before popping the question underwater
- A secluded dinner at The Cape Hotel
San Francisco
San Francisco is home to one of the most vibrant LGBTQ+ communities in the world. Its scenic beauty makes for the perfect lesbian or gay proposal backdrop. Consider some of the best places to propose in San Francisco:
- Golden Gate Bridge vista points
- Palace of Fine Arts
- Ocean Beach at sunset
- Japanese Tea Garden for a serene moment
Maui
For nature-loving couples, Maui is an enchanting location for a gay or lesbian proposal. Some of the best places to propose in Hawaii include:
- A sunrise proposal at Haleakalā National Park
- A waterfall engagement during the Road to Hana
- A sunset beach picnic proposal
- A helicopter ride over lush landscapes
Las Vegas, Nevada
For couples who love excitement, Vegas is full of unique gay and lesbian proposal opportunities. Here are the best proposal spots in Las Vegas:
- The Bellagio Fountains
- The Eiffel Tower at Paris Las Vegas
- A helicopter ride over the Strip
- A day trip to Red Rock Canyon or Antelope Canyon
FAQs: Gay & Lesbian Proposal Questions Answered
There’s no set rule! Some lesbian couples have a discussion, while others let it happen naturally. Some even opt for a double proposal!
Some romantic lesbian proposal ideas include surprise scavenger hunts, rooftop dinners, or proposals at meaningful places from your relationship.
Gay proposals can be anything from an intimate moment at home to a grand public declaration. A surprise trip, a flash mob, or a quiet moment on a scenic hike are all great options.
Absolutely! Your proposal is a once-in-a-lifetime moment, and having a professional photographer ensures you’ll have high-quality memories to cherish forever.
Every couple is different, and every proposal is unique! Your proposal will be a story that you tell for years to come, so make sure you have photos of the moment to cherish the love, the joy, the tears, and the surprise!