As autumn gives way into the holidays, serious couples everywhere begin turning their attention to proposals. For many couples, the holidays create the perfect setup for proposing and has led many people to nickname this time of year “engagement season”. However, among all the parties and get-togethers lining our calendars, finding the perfect way to pop the question can be difficult. While there is no wrong way to ask someone to marry you, there are a few tips to keep in mind this holiday season. If you, or you know someone who might need a few pointers, we have created the ultimate holiday proposal guide to help you unwrap a marry holiday.
Scroll through the following do’s and don’ts of proposing during the holidays to make your special request go off without a hitch:
Do be meaningful. The holidays provide the perfect sentimental backdrop for many couples. However, take time to re-examine noteworthy relationship moments like the first time you met, where you kissed, or the place you first said, “I love you!” and focus on that. Decorate with meaningful flowers, dim the lights, and add some candles to set the scene for the ideal holiday proposal. Just take the time to tailor the proposal to your unique relationship and go for all the “feels”.
Don’t be trendy. Many couples choose the new “It” restaurant or bar to get down on one knee. Often these types of businesses have a fast turnover. So, choose a place that will never go out of style or change with the times. Consider locations with historical significance, outdoor parks, or a favorite family spot. By doing this, year after year, when you are old and grey, you can return to celebrate or rekindle that spark.
Don’t overshare. Keep all of your plans on the down low and on a need-to-know basis. Find a reliable accomplice to help cover your tracks and throw your partner off the scent of your plans. This leads to our next tip. The more you share or involve others, the risk increases that the surprise will be ruined. Try to keep the proposal top secret until after your partner has said yes. Afterwards, then you can share the happy news!
Do check the schedule! Before planning to pop the big question, carefully consider what your partner has been doing. The last thing most people want is to be surprised for a special, once-in-a-lifetime moment while wearing sweaty gym clothes or sporting a numb mouth after a trip to the dentist. Most couples want to cherish this memory, so plan your proposal around your schedule to maximize the event.
Don’t forget a backup plan. We have all seen countless rom coms where proposals go awry. Avoid any surprises by thinking ahead. For instance, if you are planning a walk along the beach or a hike in the mountains to provide the perfect backdrop, have a plan B for inclement weather. Plan for Mother Nature, traffic, and other logistics that might get in your way so you can still give the romantic proposal you have dreamed of and create an epic story to tell years down the road.
Do have an idea of what you want to say. Try to avoid writing a script, because that can take away from the heartfelt passion of the moment. However, make sure you have a notion of what you want to say when you get down on one knee.
Do put a ring on it. One of the biggest engagement mistakes is when a person fails to provide a ring. While it is great to declare your love and request the commitment of a lifetime, most people don’t consider it a legitimate proposal unless there is a ring involved. Purchase a ring from a store with an exchange policy or borrow an heirloom to serve as a placeholder until you go ring shopping together.
Don’t make it a public affair. We have all seen the epic proposals hailing from concerts, ball games, and flash mobs. However, not everyone enjoys being put on the spot in front of an audience. Instead, consider keeping it an intimate moment between you and your partner. This will allow you two to linger in the romantic bliss without a roaring crowd or a multitude of congratulations.
Do plan what happens next. The day or night doesn’t magically stop right after you propose. Plan a sweet way to celebrate once she or he has said, “Yes!”. Consider having a chilled bottle of champagne nearby, a romantic evening at home, or head to a party to celebrate and share the good news.
Do tell your families BEFORE posting the news on social media. No parent or close friend wants to read this big announcement on Instagram or Facebook. Hold off on sharing the news until you have told everyone at a holiday gathering.
What tips do you have for proposing during the holidays?
About the author:
Naomi Shaw is a freelance journalist residing in sunny Southern California with her husband and three children. She is a work-at-home mom that enjoys writing on fashion, beauty, jewelry, and everything weddings!
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