Popping the question can be intimidating, to say the least. Asking someone to marry you is not something you should do halfheartedly, so it’s no wonder people are constantly stressed about it! I understand it as well as anyone – I had to go through it too. Regardless of how intimidating it may seem now, it’s certainly worth it to take that dive. No matter where you currently are in your process, here are 10 tips to consider when you think it’s finally time to pop the question.
1. Ask When The Time Is Right
First up, you should be able to read your relationship. If one, or both, of you aren’t ready for marriage – then it’s not the right time to pop the question. You should pop the question only once both of you are on the same page about where you want the relationship to go. Now, this doesn’t mean you have to wait forever until you get a verbal green light, but it’s important to have an open dialogue with your significant other to help you get on the same page. It’s also wise to discuss marriage at length before you actually pop the question.
2. Make It A Surprise
With that said, you should also make it a bit of a surprise. They may know that a proposal is on the horizon, but it’s nice if they don’t know all of the little details surrounding it. Do your best to make it special and surprise them in a good way, but don’t overthink it too much.
3. Don’t Do It In Public – Unless You Know That’s What She Prefers
It seems to be a common trend, but it’s usually not wise to propose in public. Most people seem to prefer a more intimate proposal, so that seems to be a safer bet to go with when you’re ready to pop the question. However, if you’ve spoken to your significant other and she has mentioned that she would like that (or at least no mind it), then it’s safe to consider it. Otherwise, go with something more intimate and classic or what you specifically know she wants.
4. Find The Right Ring
You may decide to buy the ring in-person, but I highly recommend James Allen. They have the best prices on diamonds I could personally find, they frequently have sales on their settings (as much as 25% off!), their pictures are very accurate (again, in my experience), and their customer service is excellent and incredibly knowledgeable. Even if you’re not sure you’ll buy online, check out their site and message their support if you have any questions about their engagement rings.
Whatever ring you do get, make sure you try to get her something she likes (not necessarily what you like). When in doubt, go with something classic – they’re usually timeless.
5. Learn To Communicate First
Not sure how to broach the topic of finances or any other sensitive topic with your partner? When it comes to hot topics, we all know that is cause for so much stress and constant arguments in so many households. When you approach sensitive issues, you need to be smart in order to avoid a disaster. If you’re getting serious with someone – getting engaged or moving in together, for example – it’s incredibly important to start this discussion. If you’re already married and have avoided talking about money, it’s time to face it head-on.
Nobody is perfect (or even close), so it’s important to approach this with an open mind and a non-judgmental attitude. Almost everyone has something they spend more on than most normally would, but it’s about balancing your spending – not telling your significant other they can’t spend money on things they like anymore.
I know talking to your special someone about finances may not be a priority or sound fun, but it is a necessity that can be incredibly rewarding. Good communication is the foundation for all aspects of a strong relationship, and personal finance is no exception to that.
It’s important to talk to your partner about your financial futures – or at least where you plan on being. Just remember to be kind, fair, and attentive during those types of discussions.
6. Get Down On One Knee
Regardless of the details surrounding your proposal, considering getting down on one knee when you do it. You don’t have to by any means, but it’s a common practice and a safe option when you’re in doubt. Again, of course, if you’ve spoken to your significant other and know her preferences, then you can opt for what you know the preference is.
7. Plan It Out
It’s always a good idea to plan the proposal out. It doesn’t matter if it’s simple or complex, think through how you want to do it, what you want to say, and prepare accordingly. It’s a seemingly minor tip, but it’s one most people completely forget about which can cost them.
8. Get Some Photos
If you want, you can hire a photography. Otherwise, be sure to at least take some pics with your significant other after the proposal so that you two have something to remember it by! Many people avoid taking pictures on the day, or don’t think it’s a big deal, and then they end up regretting it later on. Do your future self a favor and just take a few pictures.
9. Write A Love Letter
This may sound sappy, and it’s certainly not original or required, but you could always write a love letter to help you with your proposal. This could be some sort of gift you give your significant other afterwards, or it could just be an exercise to help you figure out what you want to say when you propose! Either way, it can be a useful exercise.
10. Tell Your Friends And Family
Be careful when you do this, as some people can’t keep a secret, but it is often a good idea to let some friends and family know ahead of time. It doesn’t have to be everyone, but sometimes they can also help you with the proposal!
Conclusion
Hopefully these 10 tips for popping the question help you out with your own proposal. If you have any other tips or thoughts of your own on proposing, let us know in the comments!
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