1. make it a personal marriage proposal
A proposal should be about your relationship first and the ring second. The ring is a reflection of your love and commitment but a personal proposal will show that you put alot of thought and effort into it. It doesn't have to be elaborate but by making it special or unique to you and your partner, you will have a memory you can reflect upon for years to come.
2. consider your partner's comfort level
By the time you are ready to propose, you should have a good idea if your partner is more of a reserved and low profile type or an outgoing crowd loving type. Would they like spontaneity or would they prefer to know where they are going and how to be dressed?
Say "yes" when your partner wants to watch a romantic comedy. Especially if it has a wedding or proposal scene in it. Have conversations about the movie that will give you intel about your partner's likes or dislikes regarding ring styles, favorite flowers, restaurants or vacation spots. You could also reminisce about your past dates and locations and why they were meaningful to you.
4. search proposals on Tik Tok or instagram reels.
This is a quick way to get lots of ideas and you'll find proposals that suit every style.
5. prepare a speech
Yes, a short speech before or during the presentation of the ring is a nice touch. This also gives your partner time to digest what is happening and the ability to focus in on you. Your speech ideally answers two questions...
Why do you love this person?
Why are you proposing?
This does not have to be long or memorized but it should come from the heart and it shouldn't be rushed.
6. practice
Although you don't have to memorize your speech, you may appreciate some muscle memory for... what you want to say, the timing of when you start, kneeling on one knee, opening the box, waiting for the answer (and photo opportunity), putting the ring on their finger and finally, the kiss and embrace. You could be cool as a cucumber planning everything but when the moment comes, sometimes the nerves come out of nowhere and you don't want to be caught tongue tied.
7. scout out the location
This is especially important if there is... decor to set-up, you will be in a public place or you plan to capture the moment with photo or video. Make sure you are scouting at the same time of the day/night that you plan to do the proposal. Make note of the lighting, camera angles and hiding spots, any crowd control needs, and music possibilities. Ideally, you would have two locations set up for capturing photos and/or video. One to capture your partner's facial expressions and one to capture the iconic bended knee presentation.
8. Have a Plan B
It is always good to have a backup plan for weather, or unexpected circumstances. This will depend on the scope of your set-up and the length of your speech. Also, if the proposal does not go as planned, this article from wedded wonderland has some advice on how to manage the immediate situation...
9. Consider hiring a professional
This is a great time to hire vendors that you would consider using for your wedding day such as a photographer/videographer, caterer, decor company or wedding planner. A "trial run" before the big day is a great way to get to know a vendor's communication and work styles as well as their ability to deliver. If you have a caterer or restaurant prepare a meal, you could consider this a "taste testing". Having the help of a professional will also ensure the proposal remains a surprise versus relying on friends and family to help you pull it all off which could result in an accidental slip.
10. make plans to celebrate
Once the proposal has been accepted, pop a bottle of champagne, have a picnic ready, a dinner reservation, a walk in the park or meet up with friends. This doesn't have to be complicated but have something to do afterwards keeps the intimate romantic vibes going strong or provides an opportunity to share with others so they can shower you with well wishes and excitement. If you have a more involved decor set-up, considering getting someone else to tear it down and clean up. Do not ask your new fiance to help you carry large backdrops or boxes of candles back to the car. This could really be a damper on the moment.
In Summary
Even if you want your marriage proposal to be spontaneous, there are still a few things to consider in order to make this moment special. A little planning ahead of time will show how serious and committed you are as well as let your partner know that they are worth the time and effort. This is a milestone moment that will provide you with fond memories for years to come so plan wisely, have fun and Congratulations!
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