Proposal Prep: Six Steps to Nailing Your Proposal | Zales
You've found the one. It doesn't matter how or where you met; what's important is that out of the billions of people in the world, you found each other - and you want to make your relationship a permanent thing.
You definitely want your proposal to be special, memorable and to run as smoothly as possible. We’ve compiled a list of practical and romantic things to do to ensure you question gets the right answer - a resounding YES!
YOU might be ready for marriage, but is your partner? It's important that, before you take this next big step, that you are both marriage-minded. Bring up a future together in casual conversation. Maybe talk about some mutual friends' recent engagement. If your partner seems interested in a future together, you'll know.
Some people thing this is an old-fashioned tradition - and it is. But it's also an important one! You aren't marrying just your partner - you're marrying her entire family! And while your future marriage partner isn't anyone's property, it's still a thoughtful way to get in good with her family. Plus you will know exactly where they stand on your relationship!
The engagement ring is important. It's something your partner will be wearing for the rest of her life, so it's important to get it right. Hopefully, you have been talking, maybe browsing online or window shopping in stores and you have a good idea of her style. HINT: This is where your Zales Jewelry Consultant comes in! He or she will help guide you to the right ring for your soon-to-be-fiancee, as well as working within your budget.
Do you want your proposal to be a big over-the-top production or an intimate, personal moment? Now is the time to think about how you'll ask the question.
If you're going for an over-the-top proposal, consider working with a proposal specialist (yes, it's a real thing!). A proposal specialist will work with you to create a unique proposal that has all your bases covered. Travel arrangements to a proposal destination? Check. An aisle lined with rose petals to an intimate dinner for two? Check. Skywritten proposal at sunset? Check. A proposal specialist will create the perfect proposal moment based on your relationship, memories, desires and budget.
Want this moment to be super special, shared by just the two of you? You don't need a production budget for this kind of proposal. Just have a heartfelt conversation in a place that's meaningful for you both. Then pop the question. It's sweet, sentimental and beautiful.
With any proposal, whether OTT or intimate, it's wise to have a photographer at the ready. It can be as simple as a close friend with an iPhone or as elaborate as a professional with the lastest and greatest camera equipment, but they need to be ready for those reaction shots. Don't forget to Instagram your YES! moment!
Once the question has been asked and answered, take a deep breath and revel in the moment. Then celebrate! If your family is part of the proposal, invite them over for congratulations. Pop open a bottle of champagne or sparkling cider and just be in the moment. Love is in the air and it's contagious!
Planning your proposal can be simple or elaborate, depending on how your partner feels about it. Make sure to read the cues and make mental notes. You can plan your proposal around a holiday as well, like Valentine's Day or even Christmas, which is a great time to include family and friends. Your proposal can be perfect - it just takes a little planning!