Photo (above): Yves Schepers Photography
Step 1: Buy the engagement ring
No wedding without a proposal and no proposal without a ring. It is therefore important to think about this in good time and buy the ring. The ultimate symbol of your love is the engagement ring, and your loved one has surely tipped you off about what she or he likes or doesn't like. If you're not quite sure, check your fiance's Pinterest account or enlist the help of her or his mum, sister or brother, or friend. Bet they'll be happy to look out for that perfect proposal with you....
Important tip: make sure you know your partner's correct ring size.
Step 2: The parental blessing
In some cultures, it is customary to seek permission from your partner's parents before proposing. Even if this is not customary, it can be a nice gesture to inform the parents of your plans before your proposal. So after buying the ring, put a visit to your parents-in-law in advance in your diary. Maybe check first (again, subtly) if your partner is also a fan of this tradition?
Step 3: Plan the ideal time for your proposal
Once the engagement ring and parental blessing are in your pocket, you can start thinking concretely about the perfect proposal. It is important to think carefully about how you want to propose. How, when and where will you pop the question to her or him? Do you opt for an intimate proposal at home by candlelight or do you prefer a symbolic place, such as the place where you met, shared your first kiss or went on your first date together? Make a list of all the ideas you have and choose the best one.
If you want to propose at a specific location, it is important to visit it in advance and plan everything. Think about timing, lighting, music and any help you might need. If you want to decorate the place, it is best to prepare this too.
Can it be something more? Consider proposing during a romantic beach walk on holiday. Or buy tickets to her or his favourite band's concert and get down on your knee during the most romantic song. Choose a place and a moment that totally suits you.
Step 4: Consider immortalising your proposal
Ask yourself in advance if you would like to hire a photographer or videographer to immortalise your perfect proposal . There are plenty of photo and videographers who specialised in photographing a marriage proposal. Brief your professional well in advance about the course of your proposal, and ask him or her to stand in a strategic, inconspicuous place. When you get down on your knee, he or she will capture every reaction and your entire unforgettable moment on film at lightning speed.
Step 5: Making your proposal
Once everything is prepared, it's time for the proposal itself. Take your time and make eye contact with your partner. Prepare a short speech telling your partner why you love him or her and when you knew you wanted to marry your partner. Then you can get down on your knee, take out the engagement ring and pop the question.
Our tip: make the proposal personal. Does your partner like romance? Then make the proposal a beautiful moment with romantic gestures.
Step 6: Celebrate your engagement together
After your partner has said ‘yes’, it is time to celebrate the moment. Try to plan your proposal so that you can reminisce together after this emotional rollercoaster, in your own ‘newly engaged bubble’. Take plenty of time to get used to your new status as engaged couple, and maybe keep this exciting event to yourselves for a while... Because once everyone is in the know, the planning of your wedding begins !
Editor's tip: go out to dinner together or organise a small party with friends and family. Most importantly, enjoy the moment and look forward to the future together.
Read more on this topic via these links...
