How to propose and increase your chances for a yes

Although it may seem like there isn’t too much to know about proposing, there are absolutely guidelines that should be followed. If there is one thing to take away from this list, it’s making sure that before you know how to propose you truly know your future partner well before asking that hand in marriage. The better you know them, the easier it will be to make the best decisions in the proposal preparation.

Do Make sure you know what kind of ring they want.

Make sure you know what kind of ring they want. If you can potentially get an idea from a sister, brother, or best friend that you trust it may be worth it as they have more than likely not only talked about this previously but way before you came into the picture. You may even get lucky enough to get a Pinterest or Instagram photo to help you.

Don’t Assume what kind of ring they want.

Depending upon if you’ve had this conversation already will help. Otherwise, bigger doesn’t always mean better. There are plenty of jewelers who will help give you an opinion, but only your future partner truly knows what they want.

Do get down on one knee.

Although this is a very traditional act, it has stood the test of time. Unless previous conversations hinted at not wanting to do this, it’s an extremely classy way (and some may say the ONLY way) to propose and show you truly care. 

Don’t Make it casual.

This is a moment that your future partner in life has likely envisioned hundreds of times. Not to add additional pressure, but this is an easy one to get right. Get down on one knee. Just do it.

Do Hire a professional.

The proposal happens in seconds, and it’s pure emotion. Professional wedding and engagement photographers who have experience capturing the moment are well trained. Not only are they unbelievably familiar with their gear, but with blending into the surroundings as well. Your partner will appreciate the fact you went out of your way to capture their pure joy.

Don’t Hire a friend

Unless your friend or a family member has a resume with experience in photography under pressure, I HIGHLY suggest that you re-think this. Although it can save you a little cash, there is no price you can put on a memory like a proposal. Also, your partner likely hasn’t seen the professional photographer before, so there is no worry of being recognized even with the camera out in plain sight. You never know if their phone camera will lock up or the battery will die right when you get down on one knee.

Do take the time and make sure their nails/hair/outfits look good.

The time it so their nails/hair/outfits look good. Even if you don’t hire a photographer or videographer for the proposal, you know there is a high chance that selfies will be taken with the new gorgeous rock on their finger. It can be challenging without seeming suspicious, but try and figure out a way to make sure the day you propose your partner has taken the time to look their best.

Don’t Pick a time where she/he feels uncomfortable

Referring back to the selfie tip after the proposal, there will be photos. If they dislike photos of themselves after they’ve just woken up, ideally that wouldn’t be the best time to propose.

Do Propose without an audience

Unless specifically discussed ahead of time and plainly stated that your partner would love her parents to be in front of you while you propose, it’s a good idea to keep the moment private and special. Asking for their hand in marriage is such a beautiful thing that treasuring the emotions that instantly follow can be better enjoyed without their future mother in law directly behind them. Now I’m not saying you need to do this with absolutely not a single soul around for miles. Maybe some people around to cheer in the moment will really help it feel very special. The most important thing is knowing who you’re asking to marry you, and what they would be ok with!

Don’t Propose in front of family members

As stated above unless you absolutely know that having them in front of you while proposing would be ok, then keep it to just the two of you. Now keeping the family included afterward for a get-together or celebration is something I would highly encourage, as it shows you really care about your partner’s family. As the saying goes there is a time and a place for everything.

Do Ask their family’s permission

Once again, although this is a more traditional and old school, it shows respect for their family. Although it can be nerve-wracking the moments leading up to that conversation, this is a straightforward easy piece of the puzzle that when done correctly, starts the engagement off on the right foot. Unless you know for a fact that this approach is not wanted, it’s always better to ask.

Don’t Ignore that part

If you want to start the engagement off on the wrong foot with your new family, this is definitely one way to do that. This family has raised your partner from birth, and getting married is a HUGE deal. Do not ignore this!

If you have any other questions on how to propose? Feel free to contact me directly and ask.