Like a fingerprint, no two couples are identical, so why should proposals be any different? The perfect proposal should be a reflection of the couple themselves–unique and one-of-a-kind. Some may prefer grand overtures and an audience, while others may prefer a more intimate moment that’s full of romance. When dreaming up the perfect proposal, consider these four key factors: the significance, ring, venue, and audience.
- THE SIGNIFICANCE
Showing the historical and emotional significance to your relationship is key for creating a meaningful proposal. Think back over your courtship:
- What have you enjoyed doing?
- Where do you spend your free time together?
- Where did you go on your first date?
- Where did you first say, “I love you”?
Can you incorporate anything into your proposal? If not, a conversation with your intended’s family or friends may help reveal a lifelong dream that you can re-create.
- THE RING
Now let’s be honest, most women have perused an engagement ring display at least a few times. It’s more than likely your intended has an idea of the future heirloom you’ll be proposing with. That being said, picking out the perfect ring is imperative.
Some couples take the direct route and do pre-proposal window shopping with each other. However, most don’t want to ruin the surprise of the impending proposal. Now, some may be brave enough to make this purchase on their own, trusting their own instincts and knowledge of their future betrothed taste. Other’s aren’t as confident–if this is closer to your situation, you may need to ask for advice or input from friends and family. You may choose to take your future bride’s parent, sibling or close friend with you to go shopping. Whichever path you choose to take, remember it’s the thought that truly counts.
Now that you have your ring, hide it well until the big day arrives. You may even want to consider giving it to someone else for safe keeping. That little ring can become a heavy temptation for an impromptu proposal, simply because you feel it taunting you from your pocket. Remember, you’re going for the perfect proposal here, not a moment of convenience.
- THE VENUE
The location of your proposal is one of the most important factors to consider. The spot you choose will set the mood and tone for your moment. It also should reflect who you both are as individuals; for example, if you are both major sports fans, a proposal at your favorite game might be a great moment, but if either one of you shows little to no interest in sports than you most likely need to head to another location.
- THE AUDIENCE…OR LACK THEREOF
This is a moment that truly must reflect your personal taste. Are you introverts or extroverts? Some thrive in a crowd and want to share personal milestones with everyone, but for others, that can be completely overwhelming. Also consider what sort of an audience is appropriate. Some may be ok with family and friends being a part of the moment, but may draw the line at a crowd of spectators in a public place. Other may prefer a private moment, such as an intimate candle-lit dinner or a romantic sunset walk on the beach.
Remember, you will most likely be telling the story of your perfect proposal for the rest of your life, so make it personal, and make it a story you can’t wait to tell. Enjoy this day and this moment because it’s about appreciating and showing the love of your life how much you want to spend the rest of your life with them. As long as at the end of the night they know this, you have succeeded.
