So you want to “Pop the question” to the love of your life? And…you are searching online to find advice…well, you have come to the right place, M. Elizabeth Events! Up until this point, the most important day in your life might have been when you walked across the stage at your college graduation, or maybe when you defeated the PS3 game, Halo, or maybe even when you became the proud owner of a 69’ Mustang. Well none of that will compare to what you are about to do. That being said, here are the ultimate guidelines for the “Do’s” to proposing!
Be Certain
The ONLY answer you should or want to here is “YES”….This is not an instance when you don’t want to be unsure of the answer you are expecting to receive. This could turn out to be upsetting and humiliating for both of you and that is no way to end the evening or continue the relationship. Avoid the awkward situation by wading the waters and casually discussing the future of your relationship. (But…don’t wait until just before you want to propose!)
The Element of Surprise
She should in no way be expecting or anticipating this! This is part of the game! You want to sweep her off her feet and take her by surprise. SO…keep it quite! No one needs to know what or when you will do it. Don’t facebook or twitter it, tell family and friends, or leave receipts laying around. If she gets suspicious, throw her off or even lie (this is the only time I condone this!)
Talk With Her Parents
Remember, we are in the South…it is always a good idea to talk with her parents about your intentions. Asking for their blessing is not only nice to have, it is a form of respect.
Be Unique
You don’t want to be a copy cat! You want this to be a moment that you both remember forever! The more thought you put into it, the more it will mean to her. After all this is one of the stories that you will be asked and tell more than any other in your lifetime together! Make it count. if you are stuck and just don’t know what to do, that is OK because some wedding planners offer services where they will help you plan this momentous occasion with you!
Make it Personal
When you think of how to ask your girlfriend make them feel like the whole affair was designed around them! Have her favorite flowers, food or wine with you, invite her family to join you as it is happening, bring her to a spot that means the most to the both of you, cook her special meal…you get the picture! And most importantly add more to the “Will you marry me?” Start the proposal off by telling her why you want to marry her or what you love most about her and then ask the ever so important question.
Practice.Practice.Practice.
More than likely you are going to be so nervous! You need to think about what you want to say, write it down, practice in front of a mirror, use a tape recorder, say it to a friend…whatever you can do to make you feel more confident in asking. These words should flow right out of your mouth without hesitation! Practice does make perfect!
Get on your Knee
Every little girl has dreamt about this day. She has seen it in movies, read about it in books and heard many stories all of which include, YOU getting down on one knee and proposing to her. While this might seem corny or even petty to you, this is something that means the world to her!
Ask the Question
Getting on your knee and showing her a ring doesn’t imply that you want to marry her and it shouldn’t be a given when you do so. You need to ask her “THE” question. These words are indicating you are ready to take the next step in your relationship and you want her to be your wife. She shouldn’t have to assume anything and hearing it from you are words that will linger in her head and heart for the rest of her life.
Pictures are a Must
You want to be sure you have memories of this amazing moment in your life! Aside from your wedding and children’s birth, this will be a one of the most important memories that you will share with friends and family for years! Arrange to bring your camera and hand it someone to take a picture, have friends and family join you right after, or have a professional photographer there to capture it all! Whatever you do, get pictures!
