By James Linda
Proposing for marriage will undoubtedly be one of the most exhilarating moments in your life. Whether you opt to do it in a more private and quiet setting or somewhere more extravagant, it will always be a significant event for you as a couple.That said, getting ready for a wedding proposal will take a great amount of time and effort. Aside from that dazzling custom-designed engagement ring, you need to arrange and settle other important things before popping the question.
Here’s everything you need to do before proposing:
- Get Your Future In-Laws’ Blessing
Even if traditions are no longer practiced as much, you shouldn’t hesitate to get permission from your future in-laws, especially if you don’t know them that much yet. Don’t skip this step if your partner comes from a family with traditional values. Sit down with their parents (or guardians) and share your plans for proposing soon. If you can’t see them in person, you can do it over the phone. Kindly ask them to keep it a secret from your partner, too.
- Choose the Right Time
Pay attention to your partner’s work schedule. Don’t choose a day (or night) where they’ll be busy on an important project for work. You also don’t want to propose when they’re stressed due to their immense workload. Apart from their work schedule, check your personal schedules as well. Choose a day where it’s convenient for both of you, making sure it doesn’t conflict with another event.
- Choose a Meaningful Place, Not Just a Trendy One
When selecting a place, forget about the most popular and expensive trends. Consider the places where you and your partner created memories. It could be the place where you first met, first confessed your feelings, or first went on a vacation. Other worthy places are the ones that you can always return to. Trendy places are temporary, so if you do your proposal there, you may not be able to come back there after some time.
- Think of a Concept
Take note of your partner’s interests and try incorporating them into your proposal plan. If humor is their forte, try adding something comical to the event. If they’re fond of grand and romantic gestures, a dinner at the restaurant where you had your first date might be your best option. If both of you are adventurous, you can start off by playing a game, with your partner not knowing that a proposal is waiting for them at the end.
- Find Out Whether a Public or a Private Proposal is Better
Public proposals are getting popular, but that doesn’t mean you should do it, too. Watch proposal videos with your partner and pay attention to how they react. You can also ask their family and close friends if they’ll be comfortable with a public proposal. If you’re unsure, it’s best to play it safe and just do it privately. After all, they always enjoy being alone with you.
- Prepare for the Unexpected
Even after all that planning, there could still be unexpected occurrences on your proposal day. If you suddenly have a big fight, for example, you may want to put the proposal on hold for the meantime. Another scenario is your booked service arriving late. Prepare for any unexpected inconvenience and be easy on yourself if you experience it. Don’t make your nervousness too obvious, or your partner may discover your plan.
Most importantly, focus on yourself and your partner, and not too much on the other things you’ve prepared. You may or may not have a ring yet because your partner may prefer choosing her ring herself. Make the event meaningful, memorable, and just laid-back. Don’t be pressured by the grand gestures you see on social media. Be yourself because that’s what your partner adores you for.
