Storytime!!

My partner didn't propose to me. He just assumed I'd marry him. True story.

One day, in May 2020, we were sitting on the couch and he looks over at me, and says "I'd like to marry you." This made me ecstatic - we'd been together for 10 years, and it was about time! But, he never uttered the magic words, so I didn't think of it as a proposal...that is until I got a text from his friend: "CONGRATULATIONS!!!"

"Congratulations?" I asked him. "For what?"

It turns out - no word of a lie - he told his friends he had proposed to me.

Imagine my surprise.

There was no ring. In fact, there would be no ring until one year later, when I received the best gift of all: an heirloom ring from his mother. A beautiful 1ct princess cut diamond set in a white gold ring, with smaller diamonds embedded on the shank.

But I felt cheated. I felt robbed of the entire engagement experience. That one nervous moment where you're not sure what's happening, and then suddenly, there's a beautiful ring in a box. And it's from the love of your life. It's such a special moment that I want that for you! So that’s what inspired me to write this guide for all of you planning a proposal. Here are our top ten tips on how to do it right - and a bonus one just for kicks.

1: Buy the Ring in Advance

My Brilliant Friend is truly a dazzler

Don't wait until the last minute to buy that ring. And no, a ring pop doesn't count (unless your beloved’s a HUGE fan of candy). If you're looking for something affordable yet luxurious, check out our collection of affordable engagement rings, all priced under $50. Buying in advance gives you time to make sure it's the perfect ring for your partner, and gives you time to handle any sizing issues.

Remember, the ring isn't just a piece of jewellery; it's a symbol of your commitment. Take the time to pick out something that represents your relationship and will make your partner swoon. Even if you can't invest in a high-end ring, the thought and effort you put into choosing it will speak volumes.

2: Pick a Date

Photo by: 2H Media on Unsplash

Marking a calendar date for your proposal isn't about reducing love to a scheduled event; it's about making sure you've got the time and focus to make the moment special. Consider significant dates like the anniversary of your first date, a partner's birthday, or any date that has sentimental value to both of you.

Be cautious about public holidays or family events, though. It might seem tempting to propose on Christmas or Valentine's Day, but consider this: Do you want to share your engagement anniversary with a day when restaurants are overbooked and roses are overpriced? Probably not.

3: Just the Two of You

Photo credit: Nathan Dumlao, Unsplash

There's a time and place for flash mobs or jumbotron proposals, but remember that the moment should reflect your relationship. Ask yourself: "Is this us?" If you're a low-key couple who enjoys time at home, maybe a private proposal during a home-cooked dinner is more your style.

Don't get sucked into a proposal arms race, thinking you need to outdo every viral video or Instagram post you've seen. In the end, what matters is that both of you cherish the memory, not how many likes it could get on social media.

4: Location, location, location

Photo credit: Pin Adventure Map on Unsplash

Geography matters, but the "where" isn't just a physical space. It's a setting that's ripe with meaning. Perhaps it's where you first met, or maybe it's a place that became "yours" over time, like your favourite hiking spot or the café where you had your first date. Make sure the location complements the mood you want to set: romantic, intimate, adventurous, or even quirky.

Just a heads-up: if you're planning on a public proposal, check in advance if you need any permits or special permissions. Nothing kills the mood faster than being kicked out of a park for not having a permit.

5: Practice, practice, practice

Photo credit: Brett Jordan on Unsplash

Sure, proposals in movies look easy. But unless you've got a script and multiple takes, better to plan your words in advance. Rehearsing doesn't make it less genuine; it just helps you communicate your feelings more clearly. After all, "Will you marry me?" is a question you don't want to flub.

Jot down what you want to say and practice a few times. Include all the reasons you love them and why you see a future together. If public speaking isn't your forte, that's okay. The aim here isn't eloquence; it's sincerity.

6: Plan the Day

Photo credit: Glenn Carstens-Peters on Unsplash

Proposal day isn't just about that one moment; it's an experience. Start with breakfast in bed or a morning hike to catch the sunrise. Plan activities that both of you enjoy and that naturally lead up to the big moment. But also give yourselves some downtime; you don't want to be so busy that you're rushing through the proposal.

Remember to consider logistical details. If you're proposing outdoors, have a backup plan for bad weather. If you're going to a restaurant, make sure to let them in on your plans. A well-timed dessert with the ring could be magical, but only if the restaurant staff is prepared.

7: On Bended Knee

 

You might think it's cheesy, but it's a tradition for a reason – heck, there’s a whole Boyz II Men song about it. Getting down on one knee symbolizes humility and honour. It shows that you're not taking this commitment lightly. So unless you've discussed this with your partner and agreed it's not for you, hit the ground, friend.

Now, if you've got bad knees or a medical reason that makes this difficult, a heartfelt look into their eyes as you propose is an excellent alternative. The key is to make the moment feel special and focused.

8: Pop the Question!

Angelina is a perfect engagement ring.

Here's where you can't afford to be ambiguous – unlike my clearly romantic partner (whom I truly do love). When the moment arrives, look your partner in the eyes and clearly ask, "Will you marry me?" You might think your intentions are obvious, especially if you've already gotten down on one knee with ring in hand, but nothing replaces those four magic words.

Be prepared for any reaction; tears, laughter, or even stunned silence are all within the realm of possibilities. The key is to be present in the moment and savor their response, whatever it may be.

9: Put the Ring on Her Left Hand

You've asked the question, and if all has gone according to plan, you're getting a joyful "Yes!" Now, don't botch it by putting the ring on the wrong finger. The ring traditionally goes on the fourth finger of the left hand. If you're so nervous you can't remember left from right, hold your partner's hand in yours; it'll likely be a natural move, and you'll put the ring where it belongs.

Remember, our affordable engagement rings all come with a 1-year warranty against manufacturer defects. It's just another reason to put a ring on it, sooner rather than later.

10: She Said Yes!!

via GIPHY

After the euphoria of a successful proposal, ride that wave of happiness into a well-planned celebration. Whether it's a romantic dinner, a party with close friends and family, or even a quiet evening together, have something special lined up for post-proposal joy.

A pre-planned celebration will not only make the day even more memorable but will also give you both a chance to revel in your newly engaged status. Plus, it sets the stage for all the celebrations to come—engagement party, bridal showers, and ultimately, the wedding itself.

Bonus Tip: Recruit a Friend to Take Photos

This moment is one for the books, so why not capture it for posterity? Coordinate with a friend or hire a professional photographer to hide nearby and snap some candid shots. You'll be too caught up in the moment to play photographer, and selfies just won't cut it for this monumental occasion.

If you're camera-shy, consider recording the audio of the proposal. Your own voices capturing this significant moment can be just as touching when you listen to it years down the line. Plus – just think of how it’ll play out in the WEDDING VIDEO! (we fully expect to be tagged so we can see it!)

Now that you're armed with tips for a pitch-perfect proposal, it's time to pick out that dream ring without breaking the bank. Check out our affordable engagement rings today, all priced under $50 and backed by a 1-year warranty.