Ways to Say 'It': Marriage Proposal 101

A hundred years ago societies had sort of a standard when it came to marriage proposals. Everyone had a way of doing it ... the same way. Now times have changed, thankfully, and marriage proposals are anything but the same. It's became a manly-like competition where men are seperated from the boys, and even women sometimes take the initiative to propose.

If you need some ideas ... read on.

A Fear Factor Style Marriage Proposal!

If you consider yourself to be a competitive couple, this one is a great marriage proposal idea. Everyone is familiar with the TV show, Fear Factor. Naturally you may not feel great about seeing your future wife wrestle down some disgusting concoction but, make her think she has to do eat or do something off the charts.

It's a wild party

This type of marriage proposal just has to be done with a large group of family and friends around because it's too hilarious. Someone has to have a party, and guess who has to be present.

Develop a list of party games to play, encourage everyone to be competitive, and pull out a covered silver platter for the finale.

Arrange the finale so that you're 'hope to be fiancé' has to compete for something important. Tell her that she has to eat or do something horrible.

(Food horrible is best.)

When you remove the top off of the platter and there's a diamond staring at her, she'll shed pure tears of relief ... and say 'yes'.

Tips for a smooth execution ...

It has to be a surprise; no one can let the cat out of the bag so it's wise to let only a few key people in on the plans. And for prop worthiness, there has to be something that's borderline gross somewhere in the vicinity but any plastic prop will do like a human brain, a rabbits foot, etc.

Plus it's always an added benefit to have the moment recorded to watch over and over and over. The only downside; she may never want to eat anything you cook!

A Marriage Proposal: If You Can Find It!

Lots of people have already asked their number one fan to marry them using the old scavenger hunt routine, but this is a little bit different. More adventurous couples may choose something a little more challenging, and a diving scavenger hunt is utterly romantic.

Surprise! We're going diving ...

This is a bit tricky because you really have to know in advance that you're better half is willing to go diving. This can be a group activity with a several people in on the adventure at someone's pool party or a real deep sea adventure led by a diving professional, it's up to you.

If you take a trip, you can say that the trip was a gift, it was won from entering a contest, the boss sent you there for business ... but you'll have a few days to play. Say anything believable to get them there.

Setting it up

If you live near a harbor, lake or some body of water what's more romantic than a big boat on the water that's all yours, all night?

Check into renting a fully staffed boat/yacht complete with all the amenities of a luxury hotel with great cuisine. You can also opt for an all-inclusive cruise, but there will be lots of people on board.

And here are a few tips!

A midday lunch in a fancy dress that's been chosen for her and laid upon her bed is a great idea. Relax afterwards taking in the cool breezes and the adventurous dive later or spend the night on the boat-remembering special times talking and cuddling, dive in the morning.

In a shell, a clam, or a box floating above the water, it doesn't matter. This plan can be carried out a thousand different ways and remembered for a million days. The sky truly is the limit.

Cultural Based Proposals: Using Mariachis!

Everyone loves the romantic sounds produced from a group of singing Mariachis. A friendly group of Mexican guys, dressed in authentic threads, singing in the language of love is always a good idea.

It's also an idea that can work in any circumstance; at work, at home, in the park, at a restaurant, on the street, the farmer's market, a picnic by the lake, a department store, the salon ... anywhere!

Setting the mood ...

And there's nothing better than being surprised by a serenade anywhere!

If the proposal takes place in a setting, décor is the word. Nothing says 'I love you' more than flowers, and when it comes to setting the mood with a lively group of Mariachis in the backdrop, authentic Mexican paper flowers are perfect items to complete the décor.

Paper flowers can be purchased or made with tissue paper, then optionally sprayed with a fragrance.

If the proposal will be made at a dining area, don't forget colorful tablecloths, beautiful embroidered cloth napkins, and a fresh floral arrangement for the centerpiece. Gardenias are a perfect choice for a fragrant mood enhancer too.

Tips

Usually a culturally based proposal is for couples that met in a specific country, maybe studied a particular subject, some couples have talked about marriage previously and mentioned a dream honeymoon destination or just have a common passion for a culture.

Mexico is used as an example here, but a cozy Italian proposal would be just as breathtaking.

If music will be involved, it's best to have an idea of what's being sung. The lyrics are very important. If you feel a little talented you can even attempt to write a song for your love, how about ... 'Will you marry me?'

Marriage Proposals Using the Fine Arts ...

Whether the object of your desire is a fan of fine arts or not this is sure-fire way (when it comes to an unforgettable marriage proposal) to leave her breathless.

We just have to go!

This plan could be played out several ways, but there has to be an important reason to go to a play. Someone won a private showing of an upcoming play from the local radio station, an important person in the family has a friend involved in the play, the boss had demanded it, and if all else fails then an adventurous family member rarely talked about is a traveling actor!

Setting it up ...

The idea is to design scenes that coincide with your relationship, little similarities that will spark an interest with your special one.

You can hire professional actors and rent a location or you can build a stage in the park and have family members in on the surprise, each having a part in the 'play'.

A few tips

If an actual event is involved, the last act could be yours! Imagine the look on her face when you're the last actor that walks out on stage.

This proposal could be scheduled following a busy day of pampering, a horrible day running bogus errands for the boss, a total surprise with an engagement dinner afterwards with family and friends, during a romantic weekend trip or whatever your heart desires that is unique.

A more practical form of the arts could provide a backdrop or a more elaborate form. Opera houses, art galleries, dance recitals, comedy clubs, and even the local movie theatre depending on your style would be perfect ... unforgettable spots.

In the end, you reap what you sew! If you put forth the effort, he or she will likely say "yes". If you put the same effort into your relationship and marriage, you'll know that the story about your unique marriage proposal will sound a bit worn out when you celebrate your fiftieth wedding anniversary but you'll know it was worth it.

Shower the one you love and have fun with your own marriage proposal. Remember to think big and dream even bigger. Life is all about what we make it, and marriage is no exception!