DO’S
Do Talk about Marriage
Before you propose, discuss the possibility of getting married. Make sure it’s something that you both want, and agree on major issues such as jobs and children.
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. If she wants to pick the ring, find out. 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 Be Innovative
Incorporate your personality, your favorite things, favorite foods and such, into the proposal. Make it memorable rather than a stereotypical proposal.
Do Make it a Surprise
Even though you have talked about marriage, the proposal itself should still be a surprise. Find a moment and a way that she won’t be suspecting.
Do Talk to Her Parents
We’ve come a long way from when women needed their father’s permission, yet, there is still something classy and respectful about asking for the parents’ blessing.
Do Pick a Personal Spot
Think about your favorite romantic places - choose a special spot to propose. It could be as simple as in your living room, or as complicated as whisking her away for a weekend in San Fransisco.
Do Get On One Knee
It’s not the 50’s , 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 famous four words, tell her why she’s the one for you, what marriage means to you, and your hopes for the future.
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”TS
Don’t Do it in Public
Unless she’s said she wants a splashy proposal, make it intimate and personal thing. Most girls would prefer to have that moment be just between the two of you.
Don’t Propose Too Early in the Relationship
When you’re first in love, it’s hard not to do spontaneous 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 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 too much.
Don’t Hide the Engagement Ring in Food
Unfortunately, hiding the engagement ring in food is a tired out idea. It’s been in too many movies and TV shows, so you won’t win points for creativity. Worse, you may end your romantic proposal with a trip to the dentist.
Don’t Propose at a Sports Game
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
Proposals in front of family have an additional level of stress that you don’t want or need. Take this moment to be just the two of you; don’t worry, you can call everyone immediately afterwards.
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. Take it in stride and give her some time to consider the proposal.