Congratulations, You Want to Get Engaged! Now What?

You have made it to this point! No matter how you got here, from high-school sweethearts to a lucky Hinge date, there is no doubt it’s a big question.  The only question you have to ask is:  Are you ready to ask?  Here are some things to consider before you propose:

Are you both on the same page?

 The spontaneous proposal is wonderful, but the idea of marriage should not be a surprise.  You can start by talking about a friend who recently got engaged.  Ask how your partner feels about marriage.  Find out what hopes and dreams your partner has for the future.  If you are both pointed in the same direction, you will not only have a successful proposal but a long and happy marriage.

 

Talk to the parents

 Is this a bit old fashioned?  Yes. But you really should do it.  If you have a good relationship with your future partner’s parents, this should be a breeze.  Tell them how much in love you are with their son or daughter.  Let them know that you are planning to propose, and ask them to be part of the big event!

 

Buy the ring

 Starting this process can be as easy as paying some extra attention to the jewelry she already wears.  If possible, take a picture.  A talented jeweler will be able to pinpoint the style she likes.  If you can’t pull that off, get snooping on her Pinterest board.  As a last resort, ask one of her friends and get some important intel.  It is also important to get the size right.  Here are some things that you can do:

• Borrow a ring from her collection and take it to a jeweler to size.  However, make sure that it is a ring that she wears on her left ring finger.

• Slip one of her rings on your own finger and mark where it stops.

• Many jewelers can make an estimate based on your partner’s height and weight.

• Or simply ask

Get personal with the proposal

 Give some thought to your partner’s personality.  If they are the type who would love all the attention of doing this on the kiss-cam at an NBA game, go for it! But if that is the kind of thing that would mortify them, maybe save that for another time.  Is there a favorite spot that is meaningful?  Is there an elegant restaurant where you would love to ask the question?  However you do it, the more personal you can make it, the bigger the impact you will make.

Prepare notes and rehearse, rehearse, rehearse

 Again, do not freak out.  Keep in mind that emotions will be running high and this is no time to forget your lines.  It does not have to be an elegant poem, but give some thought to what you want to say so you are not just winging it.  Do not forget to include the “will you marry me” line.  That is the most important part.

 

Prepare your backstory

 If this is going to be a surprise, come up with a foolproof alibi so your significant other does not know what’s up.  If a sudden extra fancy getaway shows up on the schedule, it may tip them off.  Work with friends and family to prepare the perfect surprise.

Keep the ring safe

Once you buy the ring, be sure that it is insured.  As soon as it is in your possession, find a place to keep it secure and make sure you take extra precaution to prevent it from slipping from your hands or tumbling out of your pocket before the big reveal.

What to do during the proposal

Do not freak out.  Secondly, do not spoil the surprise by telling too many people about your plans and having someone accidentally spill the beans.  Do not rush.  Make sure everything feels right.  Take a deep breathe and ask the question when you are ready. When the moment comes, collect your thoughts and make the magic happen.  Let  your partner soak in the moment.  Put the ring on their finger and make it official!

Finally…

CELEBRATE!!!