IT’S ENGAGEMENT SEASON Y’ALL and I’m sure if you’re here you’re wondering how to plan the perfect proposal. If you’re planning a proposal sometime soon, my guess is you’re probably a bit unsure of where to start. Though I firmly believe that there is no right or wrong way to ask someone to be your forever partner, I do believe there are some consistent steps across the board that everyone could pull from when planning their proposal!

1. Communicate

This one is arguably the most important step. You want to make sure you and your partner are on the same page when it comes to marriage, proposals, engagement, and ultimately what you want out of your relationship! This is SUCH an important conversation to have as you grow together, so if you are thinking about popping the question in the next year or so, make sure to start the conversation.

2. Parents?

Piggybacking onto this one, make sure to ask your partner if when the time comes they would like you to communicate with their parents. This one is SO important! In some families communicating with parents or guardians is a must, in other families, it doesn’t really matter. Ultimately, it is up to your partner, and your partner only.

3. Buy the “ring”

The most popular way to signify that you are getting engaged in the US is by purchasing a ring, but there are LOTS of other ways too if rings aren’t your thing! You can get a tattoo, go on a super cool trip, get a house, get a temp ring, or another piece of jewelry, the options are really endless. When you’re ready, communicate with your partner to ask what they want for their ring!

4. How to do it

Do you want a celebration after you pop the question, do you want to do it on an intimate getaway? Do you want to incorporate it into your favorite date night or part of your everyday routine? There is no right or wrong answer to this! Think through what your partner loves to do, think about your favorite moments together, and pull ideas from those moments to create your new one!

5. Don’t Rush it

Yes, it’s going to be exciting, yes, you might have family waiting or dinner or a photographer, but remember that other than popping the question, nothing else really matters. Take your moment slow, really soak it in and take your time together. Proposing is a big deal! Let it exist as one!

Your Perfect Proposal

Planning the perfect proposal can be daunting, there can be a lot of pressure that goes into it. The important thing to remember though is that you and your partner are the most important parts of it. Communicate with them, make sure you are both on the same page when it comes to proposals, and think of the things you both love. If you follow these steps you should be able to plan the proposal that is perfect to you!