New York City during the holidays offers a different kind of magic. The Christmas trees and holiday decorations bring a cheerful spirit to the streets of the city. Whether you’re looking for locations to propose or take engagement photos with a holiday flair, David’s proposal may offer some inspiration.

Rockefeller Center Tree

David had initially planned to propose by the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree but was soon hit with the realization that it would be much too crowded to propose there. His fiancée-to-be absolutely adored Christmas, which is why he wanted to propose somewhere festive.

We discussed possible locations, including the New York Public Library, the Wall Street Christmas tree —and we decided that the Christmas tree in the Lotte Palace hotel nearby would be the best option. If you need help figuring out a proposal location, it’s always a good idea to consult with your photographer as they know the best locations and work with you to plan the perfect proposal.

David’s proposal had to be delayed to the following day due to the delivery timing of the ring. By serendipitous luck, snow had been falling the morning of his proposal, adding a layer of beauty and Christmas magic to the New York urbanscape.

Lotte New York Palace

Christmas proposal at Lotte New York.jpeg

We had been in constant communication the morning of, and I immediately spotted them through the glass doors as they were making their way over.

The usually lively courtyard was empty, allowing for an intimate proposal as the snow continued to fall. David got down on one knee, and with the biggest smile, Hannah responded with an excited, “yes.”

It truly was a perfect moment out of a Hallmark Christmas movie.

With Rockefeller Center and other Christmas installations nearby, we headed over to take celebratory photos of their holiday engagement. It had stopped snowing and crowds were beginning to fill the streets. We stopped by the St. Patrick’s Cathedral, the Rockefeller tree, Radio City, and finished up at Ralph’s Coffee truck.

NYC Christmas couple shoot in the snow.jpeg

Across the street from the Lotte Palace hotel was St. Patrick’s Cathedral. The snow-dusted wreaths lining the gates of St. Pat’s provided the perfect holiday backdrop for the newly-engaged couple.

A short walk away, we passed the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. This year’s (2024) tree was 74-feet high and nearly 60 years old. The tree also has romantic beginnings, planted by a couple in their backyard in 1967. If you’re absolutely set on taking photos by the Rockefeller tree with minimal crowds, it’s highly suggested to be there by sunrise.

Next, we went over to Radio City. well-visited for the Rockettes Christmas celebration. Travel time was also short: under five minutes. Across the street from Radio City were the oversized Christmas ornament installation and trees lined with lights: many options for more festive photos. Do take care not to slip if there is snow on the ground!

Finally, we headed back to Rockefeller Center to warm up with a cup of coffee at Ralph’s Coffee truck. At this point, there was a bit of a line forming but an energetic Salvation's Army volunteer keep our spirits high as he spread holiday cheer with his dance moves and holiday jingles.

For any winter shoots, I recommend bringing along a pack or two of Hothands to help keep warm! They’re a lifesaver when you’re out in the cold for extended periods of time. Hothands can be found at drugstores (CVS, Duane Reade) or through online retail stores.