1. Be thoughtful
The story of how you proposed is going to be re-told A LOT, so do make sure that it’s a story worth telling. This doesn't mean it has to be wildly adventurous or cost a small fortune but it should feel like you have put some serious effort into it. Get it right and it’ll be one of your favourite memories to share with the grandchildren, get it wrong and your significant other could kick you whilst you’re down, on bended knee.
2. Put family first
You're about to take the first step in inviting them to be your new family, so extending the respect to your partner's parents by asking permission first will go a long way in showing them that you care about their feelings too. Even if they're not that traditional, it starts your engagement off on a good foot. The same rule applies to when you are basking in your proposal glory; telling family first, ahead of social media posts and friends is a nice way to build a strong foundation between your respective clans. You've decided to become family, so you may as well start now!
3. Timing is everything
When it comes to getting down on one knee and popping the question, timing is everything. It seems that after Valentine’s Day and New Year, the most popular time of year to propose is the summer. Going down on one knee somewhere faraway and exotic has wonderful romantic appeal.
4. Know what they'd love (and hate!)
Planning to propose in the middle of a Manchester United's football stadium during a Liverpool game may be your dream, but is it theirs? We're not saying it's their way or the highway, but at least find a compromise so that your lover doesn't wish the ground would swallow them up whole. They may, on the other hand, love a crowd! Try and gauge their reaction in the weeks leading up to your special moment by asking their opinion on public declarations of love. Or, failing this, look at funny ones on YouTube which may point you in the right direction for their reaction.
5. Do keep it a secret
Loose lips sink ships goes the old wives' tale, so try to limit the number of people you tell prior to popping the question. You're playing a risky game of it getting back to your love, and, if it does, they may feel like the last one to know, which will leave them feeling deflated when the time actually comes.
6. Don't guess
Making a huge investment in a piece of jewellery that they have to wear forever would make anyone nervous. Play it safe and buy into the new trend for dummy rings for less than £50 as a token engagement ring. Once they’ve said yes, you can go ring shopping together. And it doesn't have to be diamonds; there are some gorgeous alternatives out there-with emeralds, rubies and pearls taking centre stage. Asking a close friend, your love's mother or sneaking a peak at their wardrobe or jewellery box for clues into the styles that they already love will help if you do want to buy 'the one' up front.
7. Plan what you wear
The last thing you want is the ring box bulging through your skinny jean pocket, prompting at best, a lot of stares and at worst, them guessing way before you’re ready to utter the magic four words. Wear something comfortable, with big pockets and no holes in them (this is pretty key!) and it will significantly reduce your stress levels leading up to your big moment!
