With 37% of all engagements taking place between November and February, you’re likely to have seen a slew of engagement announcements on social media in recent months. But with the most romantic day of the year just around the corner, it’s not too late to ask that very important question.
Valentine’s Day always ranks highly as a popular time to propose. It may have slipped from the top spot in recent years – with couples getting engaged a little differently during the pandemic – but back in 2020, Valentine’s Day was by far the most popular day to pop the question.
If you’ve missed the boat for a New Year’s or Christmas proposal, you’ll want to read our guide to preparing for your big moment, just in time for Valentine’s Day.
Pick the perfect location
The location of your marriage proposal should be just as sentimental as your proposal speech.
Think back on those relationship milestones and choose a setting that complements your time together. It could be the place where you met, had your first date, shared your first kiss, or said “I love you” for the very first time.
If you want to go big with your location, these romantic destinations are the perfect places to propose.
Shop for that sparkler
No proposal would be complete without a stunning engagement ring to show off, so don’t leave your new fiancée empty-handed.
Shop for an engagement ring they’ll love early, not forgetting to do your research first. Use their personal style to influence your choice. You could also ask a close friend or family member to assist you on your hunt for the perfect ring. It often helps to have an extra pair of eyes during this very important shopping trip.
Capture the moment
Failing to capture the moment on film is a big regret for many newly engaged and married couples. Keeping that element of surprise and snapping the scene as it unfolds is possible with the help of a ‘hidden’ photographer.
Many professional photographers offer surprise engagement shoots, so you can capture the “yes” and look back on your partner’s priceless reaction for years to come.
Make it a family affair
Don’t wait for that social media announcement to share your engagement news with your nearest and dearest. Whilst traditionally a private moment between you and your partner, modern-day couples are doing things a little differently.
Enjoy the best of both worlds by following this advice from How They Asked:
“A unique way to involve family and friends without telling them your master proposal plan is by filming loved ones sending warm wishes and sharing stories about the two of you. Once you have an array of touching clips, compile them into a heartwarming movie that ends with you asking for your partner’s hand in marriage. This is a great way to involve loved ones and ensure the safety of your secret.”
Getting the family involved the old fashioned way by asking for your partner’s hand in marriage is a tradition many modern couples still stick with, and it’ll get those special people involved without encroaching on the privacy of the proposal itself.
Have a plan B
Sometimes the best-laid plans just don’t work out, but that shouldn’t stop your proposal in its tracks. Be as flexible as you can when planning a proposal that’ll wow your partner, especially if you intend to pop the question outdoors.
However you’re proposing, remember it’s your moment too. Relish every minute and don’t be afraid to bask in that just engaged bubble for as long as you want to.
