How to Plan a Counter Proposal in Banff:
Imagine this: you just got engaged in one of the most beautiful places on earth. Maybe it happened by the water at Lake Louise, during a quiet hike at Lake Minnewanka, or high above the mountains on a helicopter tour. The moment was perfect—emotional, joyful, unforgettable.
But now you’re thinking… you want to propose back.
A counter proposal is a thoughtful and romantic way to return the love your partner showed when they asked you to marry them. It’s not about “one-upping” their proposal—it’s about making your own meaningful gesture in return. And there’s truly no better place to do it than Banff.
If you haven’t planned the original proposal yet and want help getting started, check out my How to Propose in Banff guide.
Here’s how to plan a counter proposal in Banff that’s simple, intentional, and full of love.
1. Decide When You Want to Propose Back
One of the most special ways to do a counter proposal is right after the original proposal. Maybe you’re still catching your breath, still holding back happy tears—then you surprise your partner by pulling out a ring (or letter or keepsake) of your own and asking, “Will you marry me too?”
There’s something incredibly beautiful about both people asking, back to back, in the same place and moment.
Or, you might want to wait a little. Some couples plan their counter proposal:
Later that day, during a second activity or dinner
The next morning at sunrise on a new adventure
During a couple’s session (that your partner thinks is just for photos)
On a hike or canoe ride a few days later
Whether you want to do it right away or give it a little space, what matters most is the intention behind it.
2. Pick the Perfect Banff Location
Banff is full of quiet corners, breathtaking views, and romantic backdrops for a counter proposal. Some of my favourites:
Two Jack Lake at golden hour
Lake Minnewanka surrounded by mountain views
Moraine Lake at sunrise (if you're lucky enough to stay at the lodge or book a shuttle)
Peyto Lake with its dreamy overlook
A scenic helicopter landing in Banff
If your partner proposed in a public or iconic location, your counter proposal could happen in a quieter nearby spot—like stepping aside after the crowd clears or walking down a nearby trail for a private moment.
As a Banff local and photographer, I can help you plan around the light, crowds, and conditions to make it feel easy and natural.
3. Keep It Simple and True to You
There’s no pressure to make your counter proposal elaborate. Sometimes the most meaningful gestures are the simplest ones:
A ring
A handwritten letter
A small heirloom
A custom piece of jewelry
A short, heartfelt vow or note
Whether you kneel or just take their hands and speak from the heart, the moment will feel special because it’s yours.
4. Include a Photographer
A counter proposal is such an emotional moment—and having a professional photographer there ensures that all those in-between moments, reactions, and quiet details are preserved beautifully.
You only get to live this once. A professional knows how to:
Blend into the background so the moment stays intimate
Anticipate what’s about to happen and be in the right spot
Use natural light to make your images feel soft and timeless
Help you feel comfortable, even if you're camera-shy
Capture the connection between you in an honest, artful way
If you’re planning your counter proposal right after the original one, your photographer can stay to document both moments—so your whole story is told from start to finish.
Whether you frame one photo or keep the whole gallery just for yourselves, these are the kind of memories that will mean more with time.
5. Let the Moment Be Real
Counter proposals are about sharing the joy and love you felt when they asked you—and saying, in your own way, “I want this just as much.”
You don’t need to memorize anything. Just speak from the heart. Let the emotion in. Let it feel like you.
Final Thoughts
Planning a counter proposal in Banff is a beautiful way to create a shared engagement story—one that reflects the depth, respect, and connection between you both. Whether it happens right after the first proposal or days later on a mountaintop, your love deserves to be celebrated in your own way.
If you’re dreaming of planning something like this in the mountains, I’d love to help. From quiet location scouting and timing tips to capturing the moment naturally on camera, I’m here for it all.
And if you’re still figuring out your proposal, start with my How to Propose in Banff guide—it’s full of location tips, ideas, and advice from someone who helps plan these moments every day.
