How to Propose Without an Engagement Ring (2024)

Wedding traditions are constantly changing as society continues to evolve. While some customs were made to be broken, like single-gender bridal parties, others have simply expanded to align with today's top trends, such as colored gemstones replacing diamonds in engagement rings. One wedding custom, in particular, that is ever-changing (and one that has been completely reimagined in the last decade) is the proposal. From women flipping the script and proposing to individuals popping the question to each other at the same time, the way couples get engaged today has become more of a personal choice.

That being said, there is one engagement tradition that many individuals are weary of renouncing: Proposing with an engagement ring. But for those who have asked the question, "Can you propose without a ring," allow us to ease your mind: Yes, you can absolutely pop the question without a bauble. In fact, you can propose in any way, shape, or manner that you believe speaks to your unique love story. For some, a ring is a physical symbol of the emotional commitment their partner is willing to make for them. For others, it’s the commitment itself that’s important, not the jewelry that’s attached to it.

To help you make this wedding custom more personal and unique to your relationship, we’ve created a guide on how to propose without an engagement ring. Read on for more.

Propose With a Ring Box

If you know your partner is picky about jewelry but you don’t want to ruin the surprise of an engagement by going ring shopping beforehand, or you aren't able to afford a ring at the time you'd like to propose, consider popping the question with an empty ring box as a symbol of your thoughtfulness. Everyone wins; you have something to get down on one knee with, and you and your partner get to go ring shopping together at a later date.

Write a Love Letter

Proposals can come with a certain pressure to plan and perform a public and elaborate engagement, but popping the question in writing can often be just as meaningful. Whether it’s in the acknowledgments of a book you're writing or simply as a love letter you put together for your partner, adding those four words (Will you marry me?) on paper is incredibly special and thoughtful. There’s also a certain permanence to proposing in writing that pairs nicely with the serious, lifelong commitment of marriage. It’s both a grand and small gesture at the same time, as it’s a message for one person on something that many people might see.

Propose With a Different Piece of Jewelry

If your partner has expressed their disinterest in wearing a ring, you can just as easily propose with another piece of jewelry you think they'd wear on a day-to-day basis. For example, a necklace, bracelet, earrings, or even a watch might be a piece of more practical and preferred engagement jewelry. It’s not the ring that makes an engagement, it’s what it represents—a commitment to marry and support each other for the rest of your lives. The jewelry is just the cherry on top.

Get an Engagement Tattoo

If you and your partner share a love of tattoos, revealing an engagement tattoo is a great way to show just how serious you are about this commitment. The tattoo doesn’t have to be a ring on that finger, either: It can be your partner’s initials, a portrait, or even an inside joke. Regardless, proposing with a tattoo is a meaningful gesture that signifies your lifelong devotion. Plus, signing the actual marriage license will seem like a piece of cake after getting inked together.

Gift Your Partner a Pet

Show your partner just how dedicated you are to starting a family together by welcoming a furry friend into your home. Animals are a lifelong commitment, which is what makes them so perfect as an alternative to engagement rings. Of course, this is something you should talk about with your partner beforehand to make sure it’s something you both want (since you can’t return a puppy the same way you can a ring). Dog lovers will love this gesture, and it’s something you can nurture together for years to come. What's more, having a dog around the house will always remind you of the day you got engaged.

Propose With a Memento

Proposing with a memento that holds a lot of meaning in your relationship will make your engagement feel that much more special. Maybe it’s a movie stub from your first date or a plane ticket from the first trip you took together. Presenting this little piece of history along with the words “Will you marry me?” will give your partner all the feels. Make it special by putting it in a frame, and prepare for waterworks.

Plan a Romantic Trip

If your partner values an experience over material items like an engagement ring, proposing with a bucket-list trip is a great way to surprise them. By traveling together, you’re creating memories that you can always look back on fondly. Surprise them with plane tickets to their favorite far-away destination, and keep the surprises coming throughout your visit with restaurant reservations and off-the-beaten-path excursions. It’ll be a trip you’ll both never forget!

Purchase a Piece of Art

If an engagement ring is a public display of your love, who says that display has to be worn on your finger? Art lovers will appreciate the sentimental value of scoring a coveted piece of art from their favorite artist, or better yet, a personalized commission. Art is often a significant investment, similar to engagement rings, but it’s something you’ll have forever on display in the home you share.

Propose With an Heirloom

Proposing with an heirloom piece that has been passed down to you from older generations shows your partner that you want them to be part of your family’s historic heritage. It’s an incredibly meaningful gesture and a reminder that this commitment isn’t about just the two of you. It’s about the joining together of two families and a reminder of the loved ones you might’ve lost in the past. An heirloom isn’t just a piece of jewelry, it’s a piece of history that you’ll take with you as you start your future together.

Organize a Romantic Gesture

Some people think spending a ton of money on an engagement ring is impractical. If that's you, consider putting that money towards the purchase of a home or to pay off your partner’s student loans—it's a grand gesture that shows how committed you are to your future together.It's also a significant investment in your life together, which for some, is better than a standard engagement ring.

Put Together a Scrapbook

Compile all the memories you and your partner have experienced together over the years into an epic scrapbook. Include photos from your first few dates, receipts from restaurants you've dined at, and love letters you've written to each other. You could even write down all the reasons why you love your significant other, so they can read your words as they flip through the pages. At the end of the book, be sure to write "Will you marry me?" as a way to seal the deal and start your new life chapter with your soulmate.