3-Day Arctic Engagement in Finland: Winter Proposal in Äkäslompolo

Winter Proposal in Äkäslompolo

Dale first reached out to me because he was planning something big and a little intimidating. He wanted to propose in Finnish Lapland, in the middle of winter, in a place neither of us had ever been before. He didn’t just need a photographer, he needed someone who could really help him plan this epic proposal from start to Finnish (get it 😂).

We clicked right away. I told him straight up that I had never photographed in Äkäslompolo before, but I also told him I’d help him plan all the way through, obsess over the details, and make sure Mariah had no idea what was coming. I’ve had lots of experience in doing this before, and luckily I was legally allowed to work there (being an EU resident). Also, I wouldn’t have the jetlag and I really know the mentality and how things work in Nordic countries.

Dale and Mariah traveled from Austin to Äkäslompolo for a three-day engagement experience that was emotional, cozy, adventurous, cold, joyful, and deeply real.

The Proposal Setup at Arctic Skylight Lodge

Dale booked a glass cabin at Arctic Skylight Lodge, hoping for northern lights on their overnight stay. Before they arrived, I stepped in to help set the scene.

I decorated their cabin with roses and champagne so everything felt super romantic, and the vibe was set. When I knew they were coming, I hid in the snow, covering myself with my white umbrella since all I had was black clothing. I waited for the right moment, signalled to Dale, and I started photographing as he drop to one knee.

Mariah immediately dropped to hers.

She cried. He cried. They hugged. She said yes to forever. It was one of those moments that feels completely suspended in time.

Afterward, we took a few celebratory photos inside the cabin, soaking it all in, then called it a night and saved the rest of the story for the days ahead.

About the Northern Lights (The Honest Part)
This engagement took place in February, which is prime northern lights season in Lapland. We tracked solar activity closely using an aurora forecast app, and there was aurora activity during their stay.

Sadly, sometimes weather can get in the way. So the dream of getting photos under the northern lights was not possible on this trip.

The nights with strong aurora activity were cloudy, and the clear, sunny days didn’t line up with solar activity. That’s Lapland. You can do everything right and still need a bit of luck on your side.

And that’s important to say out loud. Not because it took anything away, but because it shows that not everything can go as planned, and you can’t always get those exact photos you saw on Instagram. I wouldn’t go as far as to say it’s Instagram vs. reality, because those photos are definitely possible, but luck was not on our side. But I mean come on, I got some epic photos despite that!

A 3-Day Engagement Session in Finnish Lapland

Instead of cramming everything into one rushed shoot, Dale booked a three-day engagement session. That gave us space to explore, slow down, and actually enjoy what Lapland has to offer.

Snowshoeing Through Silent Winter Forests

Quiet trails, deep snow, and that soft Arctic light. Snowshoeing gave us calm, connected moments where they could just exist together without thinking about the camera.

Snowmobiling Across Open Landscapes

Fast, fun, and slightly unhinged in the best way. Snowmobiling brought movement, laughter, and maybe some slightly wind-burned cheeks (I wasn’t so covered up).

Dog Sledding Adventures

Dog sledding added energy and excitement to the session. Big smiles, happy chaos, and a very real “we can’t believe this is our life” feeling.

Time With Wild Reindeer

One of the most grounding parts of the experience. Calm, respectful moments with reindeer in their natural winter environment, adding a quiet magic that didn’t need to be staged. To actually see them in the wild is so much more special than at a farm.

Why This Engagement Worked So Well

Dale and Mariah trusted the process completely. They weren’t chasing perfection or forcing moments. They leaned into the weather, the cold, the unpredictability, and the experience itself.

We laughed a lot. We froze a little. We created something that felt true to them.

They loved their session not just for the photos, but for the memories, the adventure, and the way everything unfolded naturally. That’s always the win.

Thinking About Proposing in Finland?

Äkäslompolo is an incredible place for a winter proposal or engagement session, especially if you want something intimate, adventurous, and deeply memorable. Northern lights are never guaranteed, but the experience always is. Hit me up if you want to learn more about their experience, and how I can make a unique experience for you!

And yes, I will absolutely hide in the snow for you.

Check out more of their gallery below!