Proposal Checklist - All The Things You Need For A Successful Proposal
If you're thinking about getting down on bended knee and popping the big question soon, first of all—congratulations! We understand that planning an engagement proposal can be a daunting task. So we've put together a checklist of all the things you need to prepare for to make sure you have a successful proposal. Follow along with our tried-and-true engagement tips, and an unforgettable marriage proposal is sure to follow.
1. Come up with a Game Plan
This is the time where you can get creative! Think about what sort of proposal will work best for you both. Would your partner like something more casual, cozy and romantic, like a dinner for two with a journey down memory lane? Or perhaps you want to pull off a mountain hike that ends at the top with you popping the question around the majestic view and clouds?
Would she want her family and friends to be there when she says "YES"? Or does she prefer the intimate moment to just be shared between the two of you?
Think about what she wants as well as the date, the place, the people, the music, etc. The way you pop the question is entirely up to you, but just make sure you've got a solid plan in place and have thought ahead about every detail and nuance of your proposal day.
2. Have a Conversation with Her Family
If you're planning on asking a parent's permission for your partner's hand, before the proposal is the time to do it. Sit down with her parents (or speak with them over the phone if they live far from you), and let them in on the exciting news. Share as many (or as few) details as you'd like about your plans for popping the question, but ask them to kindly keep it all a secret!
3. Keep it a Secret
The more people you tell, the harder it will be to keep your proposal plans a secret. Make sure that if you are enlisting the help of friends or family, they're committed to sticking with your game plan and keeping everything under wraps. After all your hard work, you don't want a friend or a relative ruining the excitement of your special day.
4. Find the Perfect Engagement Ring
It's hard to pull off a dream proposal without a beautiful engagement ring. This is a piece of jewelry that she will wear for years and years to come—so make sure that she will love and cherish it. This Gentleman's Guide would would help you know more about what women generally want for their engagement rings.
5. Ready Your Proposal Speech
One of the things to prepare for before your proposal is your speech. Make sure you rehearse and memorize your speech before the big day. Getting down on one knee and fumbling through your words can definitely spoil your romantic plan. To help you out, we’ve put together a guide on the best things to say to your partner when you are popping the question.
6. Documentation
Capture the moment and make it part of your memories vault! The marriage proposal is considered a milestone in a couple’s story. Don’t forget to have photos or video of this once in a lifetime event. Believe me, you will appreciate reminiscing this moment again and again and again as the both of you advance in your journey as a couple. Plus, the photos or videos can also be used for your grand announcement in social media and also as part of your wedding day program.
7. Expect the Unexpected
Sometimes things just don't go as planned, so make sure you've got a backup plan for each and every element of your proposal. What if it suddenly rains? What if there are delays? What if a family member or a close friend is late? Whatever it is, come up with a plan B for everything, and you'll leave no room for error.
8. Celebrate and Share the News
Congratulations—you're getting married! Make sure to take some time with your partner to really reflect and enjoy this new phase of your lives together before you get swept up in the excitement of wedding planning. You'll likely want to share the excitement with all of your friends and family after too.
