How to Plan a Memorable, Romantic Proposal

Next to the actual wedding day, the proposal is possibly the most significant event for two people in love. From finding out whether your girlfriend prefers natural diamonds or synthetic diamonds, rubies, or emeralds, or if she would rather a natural diamond or cubic zirconia so that the ring is eco-friendly and sustainable, to how many carats the diamond should be, proposing is hard work.

Picking out the perfect engagement ring is just the beginning of the process of planning a memorable, romantic proposal, especially if you’re trying to figure it out quickly. For example, if you and your girlfriend are about to head off to college, and are already in the middle of finding the perfect college admission counselor, then you’re probably already stressed and ready to get out of high school to get on with your adult lives. Here, you’ll find a few tips to help you plan a memorable, romantic proposal before your high school days are behind you.

Find the perfect ring.

You already know that the perfect engagement ring is the star of any proposal, so keep that in mind when you’re looking for the right diamond at the jeweler. One thing to keep in mind during your search is that lab diamonds are indistinguishable from real diamonds, so if your girlfriend is super eco-friendly, then synthetic diamonds from a lab would be an extra special touch. Finding the perfect ring shouldn’t be a process that you rush into. Take into account her style, your budget, and your schedule before going to the jeweler to start looking for a ring you know she’ll love.

Start with her family.

Your girlfriend’s family are the most important people in her life. This means that she cares what they think, so if her parents are old-fashioned, as most parents are, you may want to get their permission to propose before getting down on one knee and asking her to marry you. Making the seriousness of your intentions clear to your future bride’s family will go a long way towards cementing your position in your new family when you’re married.

Decide on the setting and atmosphere.

The proposal atmosphere is almost as important as the proposal itself. You need to decide if you want an intimate, romantic proposal or a more lighthearted proposal with family and friends in attendance. The setting and atmosphere set the stage for the actual proposal, so make sure you take your time figuring out which would be best for both of you.

Consider whether she would want a quirky proposal, such as working it into game night, or a grand romantic gesture with everyone in attendance. You know her better than anyone, so the choice is yours. If you’re having problems coming up with the right setting, try talking to her best friend, sister, or mother for help, as they will know her better than you do, even.

The right moment is key.

Even the best-laid proposal plans can get sidetracked. Maybe she had a terrible day at work, or perhaps the two of you got into an argument on the way to dinner; whatever the case may be, you don’t want to propose when she’s feeling down or angry. If at all possible, put off your proposal to another day when all is right with her world, and you’ll both be happier for it in the end.

These are just a few tips for helping you plan the perfect proposal to ask the woman you love to marry you. Make your plans, and you’ll know when the time is right to pop the question if you think ahead.