Proposal video ideas: 8 ways to use a video in your proposal

There are two kinds of proposal videos: the video in the proposal, which plays before you ask, and the video of the proposal, which captures the moment. Both are worth planning. Here are eight ideas, and the practical details that decide whether they work.

Videos that are part of the proposal

1. Your story, then the question

A short film of your relationship, from the first meeting to today, that ends with "Will you marry me?" on screen. As it ends, you're already on one knee. It works on a TV at home, a laptop on a picnic blanket, or a projector at a planned setup.

2. The "fake" movie night

You're watching something together at home. Halfway through, the movie is replaced by your video. Keep the remote, and the ring, within reach.

3. Messages from the people they love

Their best friend, their siblings, maybe a grandparent, each record a few seconds. The last message is you, in the room.

4. A video at the place it started

Take them back to where you met or had your first date, and play the video there on a phone or tablet. The place does half the work.

5. A cinema or screen surprise

Some small cinemas and venues will play a short video before a film, with notice. It's dramatic, so only choose it if your partner enjoys being the center of attention.

Videos of the proposal

6. A hidden photographer or videographer

Many proposal planners include one. Agree on a signal, and on where you'll stand so the light and the angle are right.

7. A phone on a hidden tripod

Cheaper, and good enough with a little planning: test the framing, use video mode at the highest quality, and start recording a minute early.

8. A "save the moment" film afterwards

Combine the proposal footage with your story into one short film to share with family, or to play again at the wedding.

What makes a proposal video work

• Short. One to two minutes. Long enough to bring back memories, short enough that the tension builds.
• Specific. Small details (the coffee order, the first message, the place) mean more than general romance.
• Tested. Test the screen, sound, Wi-Fi and battery where it will play. Download the file; don't rely on streaming.
• About them. Think about whether your partner would love a public moment or prefer something private.

Let us make the video

We make short animated proposal films from your photos and story, ending on the question, so you can focus on the ring and the place. You can start your proposal film here.

Frequently asked questions