Getting engaged is a really exciting time in a couple’s life. It’s a momentous occasion that will be retold for years to come. But before you can get to all the nostalgia that will eventually come, you first have to actually present the ring to your intended. While this can seem like a daunting task (after all, you want to get everything just right), there are a few tips that can help you plan the perfect proposal scene without worrying about potential mishaps. Here, the wedding experts at Walter Knoll Weddings offer some thoughts about what to do- and not do- when presenting an engagement ring to your soon-to-be-bride.
Some Points to Think about Ahead of Time
As you’re preparing for a life-changing event like getting engaged, it’s important to think about your time frame and location. You and your partner may not want to be surrounded by too many people for such a sweet moment; or, you may love the attention and excitement a public engagement can bring. Think about your personalities as you choose your location. Timing can also be a major factor. If you ask for her had at dinner, just before rushing off to a show you have tickets for, the two of you may not have time to bask in the glow of romance like you want. Leave a little room for some tears, some kisses and some glowing as you both soak in the moment and realize this is the beginning of forever together!
Do It Right
As far as actually presenting the ring to your intended, we have a few points to consider. First, make sure you’ve chosen a ring she’ll love. Here are a few suggestions about how to present the ring in creative ways:
- Do tie it on! Present her with a bouquet of flowers or small gift, and have the ring attached with a ribbon.
- Do send her searching. A scavenger hunt in which the final prize is the ring can be super fun! Just don’t hide the ring in a public place where it could be found by someone else!
- Do string her along. Give her the end of a string and have her follow it to its other end- where her ring is waiting.
- Do create a scene. Set up a beautiful spot with her favorite items, or symbols of your life together, then get down on one knee. While she’s marveling at all of your memories, you’re already making another one!
- Do bring an audience. If your partner loves being in the spotlight, then having her nearest and dearest witness this event will only make it better. Much like a surprise party, this takes some coordination but can be well worth the effort.
Please Just Don’t…
With all of these great ideas come a few warnings to heed. These aren’t meant to limit your creativity, but are simply here to make sure some pragmatism is exercised in your planning this big event.
- Don’t hide the ring in her food. We don’t want a choking scene on what should be a beautiful day. Also, do you really want food all over that expensive ring the first time she sees it?
- Don’t hide the ring in her drink either. It might look pretty at the bottom of the champagne flute, but the act of getting it out could become awkward (again, with the choking…).
- Don’t hide the ring at all! There are few scenarios in which hiding the ring can work out well. By letting go of it before she knows about it, you run the risk of losing it or having it taken. Avoid this by keeping the ring with you until the right moment.
- Don’t rely on the weatherman. Even if everything looks like clear skies and smooth sailing, if you’re planning an outdoor proposal it’s still smart to have an indoor backup plan in case of inclement weather.
- Don’t rely on anyone else at all! Leaving the ring-bearing to someone else could very easily open you up to a lot of anxiety about everyone being where they should, when they should. If that’s your major concern, you’ll stop focusing on the person you should be (your soon-to-be-bride). Certainly, involve others, but be sure the ring itself stays with you.
Proposing marriage to your partner is a very special moment that will go down in history for the two of you. It’s worth investing your time, energy and creativity into doing it well. Be sure to consider your temperments and style, then create something you and your partner will still love to talk about with the grandkids. For more tips and ideas about proposing, talk to the experts at Walter Knoll Weddings. We can’t wait to hear your proposal story and help you as you plan your wedding!