A marriage proposal is one of the most significant and exciting steps in a couple’s journey. It can be wonderful and terrifying all at the same time, creating a story you recount to your loved ones for the rest of your lives. If you’ve found “The One,” you likely already know how they’ll answer — but there is still a level of planning required to make sure this unforgettable event goes off without a hitch. To ensure your proposal is truly magical, here are a few things we recommend you keep in mind.

Personalize Your Proposal

There isn’t a universal template for the perfect proposal. Each couple is unique, and every proposal is going to look a little bit different. You know your partner better than anybody. Use their likes and preferences to inform your decisions. If you know they aren’t a fan of crowds or being the center of attention, skip the restaurant proposal and opt for something more private and intimate, for example. Perhaps there is a shared interest you bonded with them over, such as books, hiking, wine tasting, etc. — these are great avenues to pursue to decide how you want to theme your proposal. It might seem like an obvious thing to say, but it’s incredibly important to personalize your proposal so that it feels truly special. Your partner will appreciate your attention to detail and showing them how well you understand them is sure to reassure them that they are making the right decision in saying, “yes.”

Location, Location, Location

The location for your proposal sets the tone for the entire experience. If you pick the right location, you can enhance the romance of the moment and make it feel truly special. The location ties in with personalizing the moment — your partner who loves nature and hiking might prefer an outdoor proposal on a scenic hiking trail. Or consider finding a location that has special significance to your partner. Ask their family if there are any spots that have treasured childhood memories attached to them or revisit an early date spot that you both connected at. You can even align your proposal with an event they are looking forward to, such as a concert or festival.

Document the Moment

The magical moment itself is sure to be a bit of a blur for both of you. It’s likely you’ll both be caught up in the excitement and happiness of the occasion, and you might not think to take a picture or video until it’s too late. Ensure you can both look back on the proposal as often as you want by planning ahead how you will document it. You can hire a photographer, for instance, if you want to go all out. Or opt for something simpler and subtler, like asking a friend to tag along and film the big moment on their phone. Depending on where you are, you might be able to set up your own phone in a hidden spot and set it to record, but be aware this might be tricky, especially as you already have so many other aspects of the proposal to be thinking about. However you decide to document it, just make sure you have it figured out ahead of time, so it’s crossed off your list the day of and you can focus on your partner.

Make Sure They’re Feeling Their Best

Remember, this incredible moment is about your partner and the love you have for them. You want them to feel their best on the actual day, no matter what that might mean to them individually. Plan around their schedule to ensure you won’t be popping the question on a day they’ll be stressed over a big presentation at work, for example. If they’re someone who prefers to keep their nails manicured, book them an appointment a few days ahead of your proposal, so they’ll feel confident when you slide that ring onto their finger. Perhaps pack an extra outfit for them to change into if you know they’ll want to look a little more dressed up for pictures. Even something as simple as ensuring they’ve eaten and aren’t feeling tired, sick or hungry goes a long way. Everyone dreams of their perfect proposal in one way or another — you want to be sure your partner can experience it feeling like the best version of themself.

Own the Moment

Asking someone to marry you can be nerve-wracking. Try not to get caught up in anxiety; instead, focus on being present and genuine. This is your moment to express how much you care for this person and to show them how deeply special they are to you. It doesn’t have to be perfect! If you speak from the heart and let yourself express your emotions authentically, your partner is sure to appreciate it. Be confident in the fact that you are asking someone you love to spend their life with you — if they are truly the right life partner for you, the proposal will be perfect no matter what. 

Start Your Forever with DeVons

A beautiful proposal starts with finding the perfect ring. The dedicated team at DeVons is here to help you find the piece your partner will treasure – our 5-star Google reviews and many successful proposals will attest to that. Visit any of our locations to add to your wish list, or shop together with your significant other to start your forever with a stunningly crafted ring from DeVons.