The holidays are coming up and in the wedding planning industry that can only mean one thing: Engagement Season! With the magic of the holidays, November to February is when most people decide to propose to their one true love. While engagement season can be a fun time for those getting the surprise of their lives, it can also be daunting for the one getting down on one knee or asking for someone to spend their life with them.  

Here are a few tips on how to make proposing fun:

1. To ask or not to ask.  

No, we are not talking about your beloved, but your soon-to-be inlaws.  Is your beloved’s family traditional and expect you to ask for their blessing? Do you want their input in the engagement process? Can you trust them enough for them to keep your intentions private and not tell your significant other before the proposal?  Planning a proposal with your in laws can be a great way to get to know them better. They may have a family heirloom that they would like you to use, or perhaps you would like them to be present when the big moment happens. Either way, it is best to know how to approach the family prior to the engagement so that you are all on the same page. You do not want to start off the wedding journey on the wrong foot with the family.

 

2. Put a ring on it.  

Or not. Does your partner want an engagement ring? If so, do you know what type of ring your fiancé(e) would like?  A diamond or something different like a sapphire ring? Should you even get a ring or wait until after the proposal and go pick something out together?  Is there a family heirloom ring that is passed down from generation to generation that you could get a hold of? Traditionally the cost of the ring was supposed to equal two month’s salary. These days there are plenty of options for a wide range of budgets. If you are going to get a ring, make sure that you know what your budget is and stick to it. Getting a ring you can’t afford will put constraints on your finances. That’s not the best way to start an engagement.

 

3. Make it memorable.

Do not propose if your significant other is stressed out or if you have recently had a fight.  Although the proposal may be a happy occasion, it will forever be tied to a negative event, so try not to pop the question when life is hectic.  When the time comes, remember that your proposal may not be as perfect as the ones you see in the movies (which, isn’t real life, by the way). Instead, take an ordinary day and make it extra special for the two of you.

 

4. Choose that style that’s right for the both of you.

You are about to ask what may be the biggest question of your life to someone.  You are going to ask them to love you and care for you and be a part of you for as long as you both shall live.  In light of this, if you and/or your partner is more private about life decisions, then we recommend that you ask the question when you two are alone.  The idea of getting down on one knee in a crowded restaurant or at a sporting event may be what you think they would like, but the public proposal may not work for everyone. Some people prefer that their family and friends are around, but you might still want to pull the person aside to ask and then make the announcement soon after. If you already know that your partner would want something more elaborate and public, then go for it. Just be sure to find out your partner’s preferred proposal style before you start planning the proposal. This may require some sleuthing through family and friends, or they may have a Pinterest board already set up. However you decide to propose, make sure it fits who you already are as a couple.

 

5. Hire a planner.  

What?  A planner for the proposal?  Why not? If you want to create a memorable and romantic experience and take the pressure and stress of planning out of the equation, hire a planner.  A planner can help you set everything up from restaurant reservations to flower arrangements and maybe even having a photographer there to capture the moment.  Whether you want a proposal to rival what you see in the romantic comedies or are just have trouble coming up with a simple timeline to help set mission proposal in motion, talking to a planner can at help make your proposal day special and unique to you.

We hope you found the tips above helpful.  For assistance in planning your engagement day or party, please contact us so that we can put together a package that works best for you.

Congratulations to all the couples getting engaged this season!