Planning the perfect proposal can be a lot of work but will be something you thank yourself for in years to come. If you’re hoping to set up a proposal you and your partner will be talking about for years, read on for ideas on how to make your proposal both romantic and unique.
Finding the Perfect Ring
Planning the perfect proposal starts with buying the perfect engagement ring. When buying a diamond ring or other gemstone engagement ring, you’ll want to think about the jewelry your partner prefers. A diamond engagement ring is something she’ll ideally wear forever, so it’s important her engagement ring and wedding band match her personal style. When shopping for an engagement ring, you’ll want to think about carat, cut, clarity, cost, and the type of gold or other material you’ll want the ring to be made of.
The best way to pick the perfect ring for your future bride-to-be is to ask one of her close friends, mother, sister, or another family member if she’d rather have a princess cut ring or a round stone. You’ll be closer to finding a ring she loves the first time out in asking for preferences. If you aren’t sure, consider asking that person to go with you to the jeweler.
Including Friends and Family
While this is an exciting time for you and your future fiancé, it’s important to remember that we’re in the middle of a global pandemic. While you’re planning your engagement, others are mourning. Being aware of things like etiquette for widows or the right things to say to a mourner is important when planning the perfect proposal.
Maybe you or your partner loves someone who just suffered from the death of a spouse. Your news could be difficult for the bereaved even though they want to be happy for you. This is perfectly natural. One way to handle what could be an awkward situation is to go to the bereaved person ahead of time and find ways to include them in your proposal or plans. Just because someone is in a period of mourning, it doesn’t mean they can’t find ways to be happy for you, too. Instead of avoiding hurting people, consider an honest conversation about the role they might like to play in your upcoming nuptials.
Destination Proposals
Few things are as romantic as an escape for two. If you want a proposal you’ll be talking about for years, consider a destination proposal. Whether it’s a road trip across the country or a pandemic-proof reimagining of a tropical paradise in our backyard, incorporating a shared love for travel is always a fantastic idea for a proposal. Think about where you might like to go on your honeymoon and consider setting a proposal theme around that location. Or, book those tickets now and give them to your partner as a gift to celebrate your engagement when you present her the ring.
Capturing the Moment
Some people make the mistake of forgetting to plan for how they’ll capture the proposal. Opting for privacy, many don’t have the luxury of photographers or even family on hand to record the big question and answer. When planning your proposal, consider a way to capture it. From tripods with rolling video to Instagram-worthy selfies before and after the “yes,” you’ll be glad you did.
In the end, the perfect ring, an amazing location, and even perfect timing will never matter as much as the lifetime you and your partner share. By making each relationship milestone count and taking time to plan them out, you’ll be sure to look back someday on a lifetime of fabulous memories. Starting your life story together with a memorable proposal is a great way to move forward together into the future. Congratulations on your decision to propose!