Decided he’s Mr Right and feeling ready to pop the question? Then it’s time to dazzle the love of your life with an unforgettable marriage proposal.
Whether your man is a classic romantic or prefers something more intimate, a perfect proposal is the first step to a long and happy marriage.
Read on for Robert Gatward’s top engagement tips, including proposal preparation and ideas for popping the big question.
Make sure you’re both ready
An engagement is a huge step for both the proposer and the proposee. If you’re proposing to your man, it’s important to be sure you’re both ready. Don’t propose to him just because you want to get married and he doesn’t seem to be popping the question in the traditional manner, as there could be a reason why.
Having an open and frank discussion about where you both are in the relationship is healthy, and ensures no disappointment or upset on the day of the proposal.
Consider his wants
While it may be less common for a man to discuss his ideal proposal, it’s still important to consider his wants and likes. Taking your own wishes into consideration is important, however, through some careful questioning, you’ll also be able to incorporate his romantic dreams into the act too.
A place that means a lot to the two of you is a fantastic place to start, as the recognition of familiar surroundings is sure to put him at ease and peak his excitement.
For same-sex couples, ensuring you’re somewhere safe and accepted when proposing is something to consider too, especially if you’ll have witnesses. Bigotry has no place in your shared special moment.
While it may be tempting to record every part of your romantic gesture, take in mind whether this is something he’ll be open to. If you’re more comfortable online and are keen to share his reaction, that’s lovely, but be prepared for the idea that he may not want this. Memories are the best pictures, anyway.
The rings
It’s not common for a man to wear an engagement ring. However, if this is something you and your partner are interested in, there’s nothing in the proposal rule book that says you can’t ask for his hand with a sparkly diamond (or alternative).
If you’re wondering how to propose to a man without a ring, there are a range of options out there. Watches are a popular engagement gift for males – the packaging makes it similar in style to a traditional ring proposal, meaning you can do the open-box reveal. It’s also an item you can slip onto your partner’s wrist immediately, and something both you and them can cherish for years to come. The same is true for other items of men’s jewellery, including cufflinks, bracelets, necklaces and more.
Of course, not every man is a jewellery guy. Proposals without extravagant gifts are popular too, with the partner doing the proposing sometimes reading a love letter or getting down on one knee with a personal item instead.
Forget tradition
Can a woman propose to a man? Absolutely! While it may be more traditional in heterosexual relationships for the man to the pop the question, it’s become increasingly common for the woman in the partnership to get down on one knee.
Lifestyle and wedding publications are now publishing their ideas for a woman to propose to a man. However, one tradition still remains most popular: leap year proposals. According to Irish legend, on February 29th, women are allowed to propose to men. It’s known as Bachelor’s Day, or sometimes Ladies’ Privilege, and is based on the story of Saint Bridget and Saint Patrick.
Legend aside, proposing to your man can happen on any day of the year. Taking the reins and reversing traditional gender roles can be incredibly special and empowering for couples, and makes for a unique story to share with your friends and family.
Don’t strive for perfection
While we’ve mentioned the ‘perfect proposal’ throughout this blog, it’s important to point out this doesn’t mean perfection in an unblemished sense.
The perfect proposal is what is comfortable and memorable for you as a couple, not about what you think will rack up the most likes on social media or make for the best dinner party story.
Whether that’s an extravagant, fun-filled act in front of all your friends, or an intimate declaration snuggled up with a bottle of wine, engagements are wonderfully unique.
If something happens to go array in your special plans, don’t panic! Sometimes the best and funniest memories come out of the things that go wrong. The important things are you, your partner, and your words. Speak from the heart, and nothing else matters.
If this information has been useful and you’re feeling better prepared to ask that all-important question, allow Robert Gatward Jewellers to make the occasion even more special. Browse our range of men’s watches and gent’s jewellery now.
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