So, you have decided to ask your partner to marry you, now you need to decide when, where and how to pop the question. Keep in mind, this is a story they will be telling for the rest of their life and you want them to be proud to tell it. No pressure! The following tips should help you get started:
Type of Proposal
A brilliant proposal depends on knowing what makes your partner happy but it is also important to think about what suits both your personalities and relationship. So what type of person are they? Are they a hopeless romantic, do they like bold statements or have they a passion in life – your proposal should reflect whatever their values and loves are. If they prefer intimacy, then a private, intimate proposal is the way to go and not a big public gesture. It’s important to propose in a way they’ll appreciate, don’t embarrass them. Over the years they will have mentioned what would make them cringe… do this at your peril!
Setting The Scene
The location of the proposal can be just about anywhere. Try to pick a place that holds great memories, a place with a story behind it or a place you both always wanted to go to – a landmark, a restaurant, or even fly them to Paris – as long as it has meaning for both of you. You can also combine locations – first a restaurant, then a hilltop under the stars. The possibilities are endless. If you’re planning on going to a restaurant, ask for a quiet table.
Timing
Pick a day that’s special to you, such as the anniversary of your first date. Make sure it is a day when they have nothing else on – you don’t want to have everything planned only to realise they have an exercise class that night. Surprise is important, but tough to manage. If you can’t completely bowl them over you can still surprise them with the exact timing or your romantic execution.
What To Say
Whatever stage you set, the most important thing is what you say and how you say it. Be sincere and let your partner know how much they mean to you. Tell your partner not only that you love them but why you love them, why they’re the only one for you. Show them that you pay attention by including personal elements like the first time you saw them or the first time you said I love you. These could be some of the most important words they hear from you, so make them memorable.
The Ring
When choosing the engagement ring, you can pick it out yourself or buy a “placeholder” ring. A “placeholder” ring is a temporary engagement ring that you propose with before you are in possession of the permanent ring. This allows you to still have a surprise proposal with a ring but then choose the permanent ring together.
On The Day
Make sure you bring the ring! Take their favourite flowers with you. Decide what you are going to wear. Get a haircut. You want to look and feel your best. Give yourself time to get ready. When the moment arrives, look them in the eye and speak from the heart. Make sure you actually ask the question “Will you marry me?” And most of all – Enjoy the moment!
If you are thinking of proposing to your partner and have a question for me you can contact me at sharon@sharonmcmeel.ie
