Tips for Proposing Marriage
with
Jonathon E. Stewart
Popping the big question can be one of the most meaningful events of your life, but it can also be a little racking on the nerves. Make sure your bases are covered so you can propose marriage with confidence.
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Transcript: Tips for Proposing Marriage
From romantic restaurants to seaside verandas, first date spots to candlelit living rooms, the big question is being popped all around the world, every day and every night.And you pretty much only get one chance to get it right! Hey guys - Jonathon Stewart here for About.com. If you're planning to take the plunge and propose marriage to the one you love, take a few minutes and make sure you've got all your bases covered before you take a knee. Check it out:
Get a Feel for Your Partner's Ideas About Marriage
First and foremost, it's always a good idea to talk to you partner about marriage, and figure out where you both stand. Marriage can be one of the most amazing, powerful bonds you'll ever form with another person -- something that's generally best entered into with a little thoughtful consideration. Making sure you're both on the same page now can avoid piles of trouble down the road.Keep an Element of Surprise in the Marriage Proposal
At the same time, you don't want to take all the surprise out of asking your partner to marry you. It's the old catch 22 -- you want to make sure the proposal doesn't feel like an obligatory gesture -- it should be fun and spontaneous and most of all, memorable. But you also want to make sure you're optimally positioned to receive a, "yes."Find the Perfect Engagement Ring
Buying an engagement ring is a process by itself, but the most important thing is to discuss it with your partner before you choose one on your own. Some people are very particular about the kinds of jewelry they'll wear, so be sure you feel it out before making the big purchase.For the uninitiated, buying a real diamond ring can induce a pretty hefty sticker-shock -- and you can't even drive it! But, bear in mind that an engagement ring is something your spouse will hopefully have forever, and it just might end up being a family heirloom someday, too. All that said, just make sure you don't let anything material get in the way of a good solid romance.
Propose Marriage in a Meaningful Place
There are as many places in the world to propose as there are places to be -- sandy beaches, open meadows, quiet corners of your favorite restaurant, rooftop patios, or even your own living room could be perfect for you. Choose a place that's meaningful for both you and your partner, and think about making it somewhere sufficiently private that the two of you can share the moment together as intimately as possible.Remember that this is about the two of you, not about winning the blue ribbon for the most outrageous proposal ever. Not to mention, complicated treasure hunts or elaborate schemes that involve sneaky tricks or outright lies are probably not the best way to start off the rest of your life together with another person.
Involve Family in the Wedding Proposal
Proposing on a bended knee dates back to the days of knights and chivalry, but remains symbolic of giving yourself wholeheartedly to your partner, without reservation. Asking your partner's father for his permission to marry is another old school tradition that's actually not a bad idea today. If you're uncomfortable with the idea of needing actual permission to get married, instead think about it as talking to both your partner's parents and simply asking for their blessing, and explaining to them just how important their child is to you.Checking in with the fam is a great way to bond with them. Marriage is about bringing families together, too, so why not start off on the right foot? Finally, be sure to tell your partner just how much your relationship means to you, how much you can't wait to spend the rest of your lives together. Everything else aside, being genuinely open and sharing your true feelings is the key ingredient to creating the real magic of any proposal.
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