Every relationship is made up of a series of special moments or milestones. The first time you met and locked eyes with each other. The first dinner date when you realized things felt ‘serious’. Perhaps it was when you met each other’s families? Or the moment you told your partner you were in love with them. And right at the top of this list? For most couples, it’s the moment you realize that you want to spend ‘forever’ together. But once you’ve made that call, it’s often followed by the big question of how exactly the perfect proposal should pan out...
Reading this and want to propose? From choosing the perfect location to picking out that all-important ring, we’ll help you address everything you need to keep in mind while navigating the vast (and often overwhelming) world of proposal planning. But don’t forget, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to romantic proposals – ultimately, this is your choice and a way to reflect your own personal values and who you are as a couple.
Ready? Let’s get into it…
1. Understanding what a proposal means to your partner
The ‘perfect’ proposal isn’t necessarily recreating an iconic ‘on one knee’ moment, or one that ascribes to specific trends or movie scenes. It’s one that’s tailored to you both as a couple and helps express the kind of love that defines who you both are, together.
Keeping in mind what your partner values is a smart way to begin proposal planning. Try asking yourself whether they’re traditional or prefer surprises. Similarly, perhaps grand public gestures excite (or fluster) them. Pay close attention to the things they like and think about your shared memories. Try decoding clues from past conversations, social media saves and discussions with friends and family. Want to be doubly sure about what your partner may like? Now’s a good time to start slipping in subtle questions - you may discover unexpected inspiration…
2. Choosing the perfect ring
Figuring out how to choose the perfect natural diamond ring for your partner (diamond engagement rings are the most popular choice for a reason) is one of the most symbolically significant aspects of proposal planning.
Consider their personal style and how the ring would fit into their daily lives (and on their hand, too!). If you’re super confident about picking up a ring on your own, go for it. Though if your partner isn’t a big fan of surprises, you could make it a joint activity and go shopping together. Or you could have the ring designed after the proposal and propose with a temporary ring, just until then?
In terms of styles of natural diamond engagement rings, classics like solitaire (featuring a single central stone with no other diamonds or gemstones surrounding it) and halo (a central stone surrounded by a circle or halo of smaller diamonds) are timeless classics that never go out of style.
But if a bolder type of ring with customized details better mirrors the spirit of your relationship and story, go with that instead? Custom design elements boost the visual appeal of the diamond jewelry, while reflecting a shared history between you and your partner. And natural diamond engagement rings, as we know, are generally seen as a symbol of love - and a daily reminder of how rare and unwavering that sentiment really is.
3. Setting the vision for a proposal that feels right for you both
Drawing up a long list of elaborate romantic proposal ideas might not help you with proposal planning, but drawing inspiration from your shared memories will. Tailor the proposal to align with your partner’s personality. If they're into big gestures, could you fly them out to where you vacationed together for the first time five years ago? If both of you prefer a pared-back, intimate setting instead, make it a romantic movie night, coupled with their favorite homecooked meal.
Think of how you want to remember the proposal. Heartfelt and poignant? Private and low-key? Bold with a touch of humor? Once you’ve figured that out, weave in details from your shared memories. An inside joke that still makes you laugh years later. A tiny ritual that’s sacred to the both of you. A detail from your first date that never fails to make you smile.
Remember, the proposal should be centered on just you and your partner. If you’re able to make sure the moment encapsulates that, you can't go too far wrong.
4. Picking the right time and place to propose
The moment you ask your partner to marry you is going to be one that the two of you should cherish forever. So, picking the right location is key to proposal planning. Try basing your decision on sentimentality. Perhaps there's a place that holds specifical significance. Do the two of you have a favorite local restaurant, or spot you first met? Or would you prefer to ask for their hand in marriage in that must-see city that’s been at the top of their travel wish list for years?
As you take stock of all the romantic ways to propose and try to decide on the right timing, factor in seasonality. Be it a beachside affair on a warm summer evening as the setting sun paints the skies orange, or a December day with Christmas right around the corner, seasonal specificities add an extra touch of atmospheric detail. So don’t forget to check weather forecasts (you don’t want your special day rained on!) as well as things like privacy (if it’s important) and accessibility, too.
5. Thoughtful details to elevate and create a truly unique proposal
How do you make a special day even more magical? By adding those thoughtful emotional touches, that’s how. Is there a beloved pet dog you’d like to involve in your proposal planning? Have them wear a little bowtie and join the two of you!
Try to get creative, where possible. If they’re a Wordle fiend or a Scrabble obsessive, try coming up with a fun word game that spells out the big question! Successfully planning a proposal while integrating thoughtful details of emotional gravity could even include family heirlooms. Perhaps a stunning solitaire ring that your grandfather proposed to your grandmother with? Or a song that means a huge amount to your partner. You could even write them a letter as part of your proposal, that they can hold onto as a memento.
6. Deciding who to involve
Figuring out who else should take part can be a tough call. If your partner values quiet intimacy over a celebration that includes more people than just the two of you, this step of proposal planning is pretty straightforward. But, if you and your partner belong to ‘the more the merrier’ tribe, having others join in can get a little more complicated.
Either way, try not to let the addition of others take the focus away from your special moment – or your partner’s joy at discovering what you’ve been planning. You could have your loved ones surprise your partner after they’ve said yes, for example, by throwing a post-proposal party with their help. They could set up decoy plans (so that the surprise element is stuck to) and you could even get them to discreetly help you in the proposal planning stage, like friends letting you peek at your partner’s mood boards or diary plans, for example.
7. How to put your love into words during the proposal
Worried about what you’ll actually say? Yes, planning how to ask someone to marry you can be a daunting task, but don’t worry - all those butterflies are perfectly normal. In fact, it’s an excellent idea to channel all that vulnerability into your words, if you can. Remember – all that really matters is that your words stay true and authentic to your relationship.
You could think of the early days for inspiration. Perhaps you were nervous on your first dates. In which case, try thinking of how quickly your partner started to feel like ‘home’. Think of how joyfully they celebrate your wins and how they stand by your side during those tougher times. Picture your shared future and how you plan on honoring and respecting them. Then, pen a few words down while still leaving room for spontaneity (remember: letting your emotions show is no bad thing).
8. Capturing the moment authentically
Another important part of proposal planning can be figuring out how to capture that special moment and preserve it forever. There’s no one right way to do it, if you choose to. You could hire a professional photographer who shoots the moment from a hidden spot, or you could even set up a discreet camera yourself, so the two of you can still enjoy privacy. Or if you want to go the extra mile and make sure the moment is given the VIP treatment, you could arrange for an elaborate post-proposal shoot.
But keep in mind that you don’t have to capture the proposal on camera if you and your partner prefer living in the moment, or feel camera-shy. The most romantic proposal ideas are the ones that feel honest and authentic, so when you’re choosing to document your special moment – or not, as the case may be – be sure to do it in a way that honors the two of you.
9. Celebrating and sharing your news
Congratulations! You’re now engaged. The final step of the proposal planning process? Sharing the good news with loved ones (arguably the best part). But before you make the announcement, take some time to really savor the moment privately, as a couple. These moments don’t come around very often, after all!
Video calls (where your partner can show off their beautiful new natural diamond engagement ring) are a fun idea, as are in-person announcements where you can really revel in your loved ones’ reactions. If you’re making the announcement on social media, be sure you've told your most important friends and family first, if you possibly can.
You’re likely feeling on cloud nine right now, so extending the joyful moment is always a great idea. How about a special dinner for two at your favorite restaurant? Perhaps you’ve had the foresight to plan a spa weekend for the both of you? You could even throw a big bash in the coming weeks for all your friends and family to celebrate with you in person, together.
Proposal planning can seem mighty intimidating at first, but it doesn’t have to be. Instead of aiming for perfection, focus on creating a special moment that captures your love for your partner and celebrates your story together so far. And while thoughtful planning is undoubtedly the best way to go, be sure to leave a little room for the unexpected, too – that’s often where the magic happens…
