A proposal is one of the important occasions you can have in your life, so you need to nail it. Similar to other aspects of life, a wedding proposal involves six elements – what, who, when, where, why, and how. This guide will help men plan a proposal that their partners will cherish for the rest of their lives.
From choosing sustainable proposal essentials like lab-grown diamond engagement rings and the best venue to deciding how to pop the question, here’s everything a man should know to ensure a smooth and successful proposal.
What do you need?
It’s obvious that you’ll need a ring to propose. But before anything else, know the difference between an engagement and a wedding ring or band since they are often used interchangeably.
An engagement ring is for your bride-to-be when you are proposing, while a wedding ring or band is for you and your partner to wear throughout your marriage.
Most men opt for an engagement ring that features a dazzling stone, such as a diamond. As for wedding rings, they choose complementary rings. The wedding band usually replaces the engagement ring after the wedding, but wearing them both is now becoming a trend.
When finding the perfect engagement ring, you want something impressive, conflict-free, and eco-friendly. One best option for you is the lab-created diamond engagement ring.
But what are lab-grown diamonds, exactly?
Unlike their mined counterparts formed naturally over billions of years because of intense heat and pressure underneath the earth’s surface, lab-grown diamonds are produced in a laboratory in a matter of days or weeks.
Both gems offer the same quality in terms of cut, color, clarity, and carat. They have similar brilliance and shine that even a professional gemologist can’t tell which is which unless they use specialized equipment.
Lab-created diamonds are often considered an eco-friendly choice because of how they are produced. Moreover, they are economical and come in all kinds of sizes and shapes. Best of all, lab-grown diamonds can be customized to a high degree. By simply using a ring builder, you can create a ring that’s perfectly suited for your bride-to-be.
If you prefer natural diamonds though, you can try out our recommended provider Kimberfire: A Brilliant Way to Buy a Diamond. They are a renowned diamond Jewelry and custom engagement ring maker.
Who’s involved?
The best wedding proposal will involve more than just the two lovebirds. Pulling off the proposal you have in mind may include the help or cooperation of your family, friends, and even pets.
Of course, you must speak with your significant other’s parents and ask for their daughter’s hand in marriage first. This may sound old-fashioned, but this act implies your intention to your future in-laws. Besides, you would certainly want the same courtesy when your future daughter decides to get married later on.
But take note, only let a few people know. The goal is not to let your bride-to-be find out what you’re up to, as this will take the element of surprise away from the event.
You may also need to hire a professional photographer or videographer to capture the event – from the preparation to the actual proposal. These pictures can look great on your wedding invitations and as decorations for your wedding.
When should you propose?
Holidays and Valentine’s Day are some of the popular dates to get engaged. Birthdays can also be a great time to pop the question, giving your special someone the best birthday gift ever.
Deciding when to propose is essential, especially if it involves some working parts, such as dinner reservations, travel accommodations, or tickets to a specific event.
The proposal date can also be your basis for when to order the ring. Not having it on time will ruin everything you have planned.
Where should you pop the question?
Choosing the best spot to pop the question may be a bit overwhelming because there are plenty of romantic vacation spots out there. But if you want to travel, take note that there will be tons of things that go into planning it. Most probably, you need to plan an all-inclusive vacation itinerary.
If travelling seems a hassle, you can always choose a venue in your hometown or set up a perfect setting in your own backyard. Another great idea is to pop the question in a nostalgic location, such as where you first met or had your first date. Any of these options will take your proposal to the next level.
Why are you proposing?
Throughout the preparation process, don’t forget why you are popping the question.
The proposal is a stepping stone into a lifelong journey with your special someone. With that said, you had better prepare an impressive speech about why you should get married.
The speech does not have to be extravagant; just make sure that it tells her why she is the one for you. Also, make it heartfelt, clear and straightforward. Don’t forget to practice how you should deliver it in front of a mirror.
How should you propose?
Now that you have decided on the ring, date, venue, speech, and the people to involve, how you’re going to propose is the final thing to consider. This stage is where you can get creative to get your partner to say, “yes”.
Ask those you have decided to be involved in your proposal about how they proposed to their significant other. Learn from them and take note of what can still be improved upon, so you can pop the question confidently and perfectly. It’s usually quite comforting to hear about the insights or experiences of other people, especially if you are feeling a bit nervous and stressed.
It is also helpful to speak with your partner’s family and friends. Discover what your significant other might want in her dream proposal. Have them figure out your bride-to-be’s ring size as well. Take note that a woman highly appreciates a man who goes the extra mile knowing what she wants and planning the event accordingly.
If you’re struggling to connect with your creative side, you can always consider some of these tried and tested proposal methods. For instance, you can:
- Get down on one knee
- Propose on a dance floor
- Spell out your proposal through a transparent LED display for everyone to see
- Buy a custom-made cake with your proposal written in frosting.
Proposals offer plenty of room for creativity.
The key is to put your partner’s interests in mind throughout the planning process while also considering your dream proposal. Tailor the event specifically for both of you and make sure it reflects the uniqueness of your relationship.