|
|
|
|
•
Tips for Proposals: Dos and
Don'ts
Thinking
about proposing? Before you get down on one knee, read these dos and don'ts of
proposing.
Do:
Do Talk about Marriage
Before you propose, consider talking about the possibility of getting married.
Make sure it's something that you both want, and that you agree on major issues
such as children.
Do Make it a Surprise
Even though you may have discussed marriage, the proposal itself should still be
a surprise. Find a moment and a
way that she won't be suspecting.
Do Find The Right Engagement Ring
Since wearing an engagement ring is a lifetime commitment, make sure it's the
right style. You might find an opportunity to window shop for rings when you are
walking past a store, or bring it up in conversation. You can also ask her
mother or best friend to help choose the ring. Read
this article about engagement rings before
shopping.
Do Know if She Wants to Pick the
Engagement Ring
Most brides want their proposal to include an engagement ring, but others are
very particular about their jewelry, and want to be part of the buying/designing
process.
Do Talk to Her Parents
We've come a long way from when women needed their father's permission, yet,
there is still something nice and respectful about asking for the parents'
blessing.
Do Pick a Personal Spot
Think about your favorite romantic places -- choose a meaningful spot to pop the
question. It could be as simple as in your living room, or as complicated as
whisking her away for a weekend in Paris. Just don't ask her in a supermarket
aisle!
Do Be Creative
Incorporate your personality, favorite things, foods etc. into the proposal.
Make it memorable rather than a cookie cutter proposal. However, when we say
incorporate food, we do not mean hide the ring in the meal! (Read the "Dont's"
below)
Do Drop to One Knee
It's not 1950, but there is something so charming and romantic about a man on
one knee asking the love of his life to marry him. Even if you're not a
traditional guy, it will add to the seriousness and lovingness of the proposal.
Do Tell Her Why You Want to Marry Her
Don't just utter those 4 little words, tell her why she's the one for you, what
marriage means to you, and what your hopes for the future are. You might say
something like "My life has never and could never be the same after I met you.
You've made me more joyful, more stable, and more inspired. I can't picture the
rest of my life without you by my side. Will you do me the honor of marrying
me?"
Do Share the News
Take a moment to reflect on your engagement, but bring along a cell phone or
calling card for sharing the good news.
Don't:
Don't Make it Public
If script-writers are to be believed, every wedding proposal takes place in
front of a thousand people. But unless she's said she wants a splashy proposal,
make it intimate and personal thing. Most brides would prefer to have that
magical moment be just the two of you – after all, you've got the rest of your
lives to tell other people about your marriage but you've only got one
engagement moment.
Don't Hide the Engagement Ring in Food
I hate to say it, (as I'm sure there are some readers who were planning to do
just this) but hiding the engagement ring in food is a tired idea. It's been in
a thousand movies and TV shows, and you won't win any points for creativity.
Even worse, you may end your romantic proposal with a trip to the emergency room
or the dentist.
Don't
Propose at a Sports Game
Games are loud and chaotic events. Even if she is the biggest sports fan you
ever knew, the arena doesn't allow you to have any of the reflection and focus
that making such a momentous decision deserves.
Don't Do it in Front of Her Family
While your families will merge with your wedding, it is not their decision to do
so. Proposals in front of family have an added level of stress that you don't
need. Take this moment to be just the two of you; don't worry, you can call
everyone immediately afterwards.
Don't Make it Too Complicated
While it's good to be creative with your proposal, it is important to keep the
focus on what's important: the proposal itself. If you are worrying about
whether or not the limousine will get to the balloon ride in time, you're
worrying about the wrong thing.
Don't Propose Too Early in the
Relationship
When you're in the first flush of love, it's hard not to do impetuous and
foolish things. Yet waiting until your relationship is stable will only
strengthen your marriage. Make sure you really know each other, and what each
other wants from a marriage before you commit to it for the rest of your lives.
Don't Expect Her to Say Yes Immediately
You're asking someone to spend the rest of their life with you – an extremely
important decision. Just because you've asked, doesn't mean she is ready to say
yes. If your sweetheart says maybe, take it in stride and give her some time to
consider the proposal. After all, you wouldn’t want this amazing person to marry
every Tom, Dick and Harry who asked her, would you?
For questions or advice, contact Robert at 858.692.3939 or Robert@IncendiaDiamonds.com.
