Perfect Proposal Advice: Considerations When Popping the Question

It's a dream story - you've met the woman you love, have had an amazing courtship and romance, and now you're ready to start a life with her. When it comes time to pop the big question, so many factors play into making the moment just right. Assuming you already have the ring, figuring out where and when can be the most stressful part of a proposal. Here are some ideas to make the moment perfect.

Consider What She Wants

Some women want their engagement and wedding to mimic those of Princess Diana's or Celine Dion's - big, lavish, and over the top romantic. Others want a quiet courthouse wedding with a small dinner as a reception, with none of the traditional bridal showers or activities. Consider what sort of wedding your girlfriend is going to want (I suggest using her friends to obtain that information), and make the proposal match. If she is going to want a big and over the top wedding, you will want to propose in a big way. However, if she is going to want a small and understated wedding, the proposal ought to be very subtle.

Consider Who She Is

A proposal shouldn't be textbook appropriate, it should be relevant to who your girlfriend is. Proposing on the beach at sunset may sound romantic, but if your girlfriend hates to swim and surf, she's not going to find it all that sentimental. Remember, there is no correct way to propose. Proposing at a smoky sports bar may seem tacky, but what if she's spent every Superbowl for the past seven years there and it's where her parents met? One thing that is often forgotten during engagements and wedding preparations is that the only people who need to be impressed are the bride and the groom - the guests are just that, guests.

Consider Who You Are

When proposing, men often feel the need to play the role of perfect romantic comedy film groom to be. But unless you happen to be a perfect Hollywood actor, then that is not the man that your girlfriend has fallen in love with. Don't let your nerves get the best of you. Even if something does go wrong - say, for instance, you drop the ring or stutter over the question - it won't make the moment any less romantic or magical for her. She wants to remember this moment for decades and decades, and she wants to remember you as you were, not as you were pretending to be.

Hopefully you found these tips helpful. Remember to take what she wants into consideration, pick a time and place that is appropriate in relation to who she is, and to most importantly just be you. Relax, good luck, and hope it's a yes!