So you’re ready to take the next step, but have no idea where to start? Proposing is a daunting task that can be very scary. What ring do I pick out? Where do I take my partner? What do I say? Those are just some of the questions that are racing through your brain now that you’ve decided to get down on one knee. Even though it seems like there is a lot to do, it will be much simpler than you think! Just let your passion and love for your special someone guide you to make the right choices.
The engagement ring is the first place to start. There are no rules for proposing. You should spend what is in your budget and whatever will make your partner happy. But what ring do you choose? The first step is metals. Take a look at the jewelry your fiance-to-be loves to wear. Is it gold or silver? This is very crucial because most people will have a preference for one or the other. They will want to wear their engagement ring every day so it’s important to pick out a metal that goes with their normal jewelry. If there is more gold tones, then get a gold band. The same thing goes for silver!
The stones are the next big part of an engagement ring. There are quite a variety to choose from and this really depends on your significant other’s personal style. Diamonds are the classic choice which can come in many colors and sizes. No matter the color or size, the 4 things you need to know about diamonds are cut, color, clarity, and carat. The cut affects the sparkle of the diamond so it’s the most important! Color only refers to white diamonds because they can range from a dull yellow to a brilliant white. A diamond’s clarity refers to the amount of tiny imperfections on its surface. This is not noticeable to the naked eye. Carat is the weight of a diamond. If a smaller diamond is cut well, then the carat will not matter as much!
Another option is unique stones like sapphires or opal. If your fiance-to-be has a unique style, then this may be a great idea! To get a feel for if they would be interested in a gemstone engagement ring or not, ask their opinion on Princess Kate’s ring or a friend’s. Your partner’s reactions to those will help you decide what to get. Many jewelers, including Blue Nile, offer an assortment of engagement rings from diamonds to gemstones, allowing you to find the ring of your fiance’s dreams.
Okay so we have the ring! Next step is when and where. The location should be incredibly personal to the two of you. Even if your partner doesn’t remember, pick a place where you have a great memory of spending time with them. If possible, go to the location of your first date or where you met each other. A fancy restaurant is nice, but a nostalgic location will show them how much thought you put into asking for their hand in marriage. Plus, the unique location will make for a better surprise. Fancy restaurants are a dead giveaway to a proposal, especially if you’re a laid back couple. If your significant other is shy, then keep in mind whether the location is very public. Viral proposals are very cute, but only for the right couple. For the wrong partner, a public proposal may be very embarrassing. Your partner will want to feel comfortable during this moment so they can remember it forever. Even if you do it publicly, they’ll still be so happy!
Timing is everything. Pick a day that is special just for the two of you. Don’t propose on your partner’s birthday or Valentine’s Day. (Of course, if they have told they want a birthday or holiday proposal then do it!) Choosing a day that is significant for another reason like a holiday can make it seem like you didn’t try. This will be a day they remember for the rest of their life so make it special. Also, don’t propose during another wedding because this may upset the bride. If this is something you’d like to do, make sure to ask the bride first and get permission! For someone is close with their family, around Christmas time is great because you can break the news and celebrate with them.
The speech is very important. Your fiance-to-be is going to say yes, but you should try to remind them of memories you have together (like the location) and why you love them so much! Even if they know already, hearing the words about how you feel will mean so much. Reflect on how you met and your first impressions of your partner. Talk about why you want to spend the rest of your life with them. If there is any significance, explain why you picked out the engagement ring. The speech should be as personalized as possible. After all, this is just for your partner. You’re not getting engaged to just anyone. Make this moment extra special for them!
Don’t forget to rehearse the speech a little. You want to be able to look your partner in the eyes while you ask them to marry you. If you have to make notes about what you want to say, keep them brief and don’t read directly from the index card! Give the love of your life your full attention and if you go a little off script, they’ll never know. Rehearsing in front of a mirror will help you see your body posture and facial expressions while your reading. Notice if you’re looking down too much or if your face is blank while you read. Of course, this is not exactly what it will be like when you propose, but it’s good to practice a little! You will likely cry and that’s okay. Enjoy this special moment with the love of your life!