Popping the Question… To Him!
November 23rd, 2006 Posted in Wedding Planning and IdeasSo you have found the perfect guy that completes your life and you are looking to make a lifelong commitment. Women, there is no need to wait until leap year to propose to the man of your dreams! The rules of formal tradition no longer apply to modern-day couples, let alone to modern-day proposals. Engagements occur in midair and in stadiums in front of thousands, and although some may still involve a man getting down on one knee, engagements have been transformed into creative and often elaborate events. Whichever way a proposal plays out for a couple, it should be perfectly timed, unforgettable and shared with the right person.
Timing is everything. It is important to consider his mood and the daily events before popping the question. A bad mood or recently received bad news can spoil the entire proposal. More importantly, consider the timing in your relationship. Does the future of your relationship seem promising? Are you at a point where he will probably answer yes? If you have not already discussed marriage and are uncertain if you are both thinking of marriage, subtle hints may get him thinking about engagement. This is especially important if his answer would be no, for he would most likely mention his feelings prior to the actual proposal, saving you both from an awkward situation.
Do it in his style. No matter how many times you have fantasized about this moment, if you are the one popping the question, the moment must be perfect for him. You are now attempting to sweep him off his feet. A candle lit dinner and rose petals may not be his perfect idea of a proposal. If you cannot image proposing at a sporting event or at a car show, contrive a proposal that highlights you as a couple. Some ideas would be to propose where you first met or to recreate a romantic date you once went on. No matter how you plan the proposal, there are several things that women often overlook. First, keep it simple. If many “what ifs” must fall in place with exact timing to make the proposal work, avoid it. It should feel natural and not be subject to small obstacles ruining the moment. Secondly, keep the proposal straightforward. Women tend to get very emotional and nervous during this time, and, as you may be aware, they tend to ramble. Keep it simple and say it with confidence.
Be prepared for any response and give him time to respond. He may be caught complete off guard by the question. Men usually do not dream about this moment and do not mentally rehearse their reaction, so his response may be awkwardly. Give him time to answer. The response is usually one of three: no, I’m not sure, or yes. If you think there is a possibility that “no” or “I’m not sure” will be his answer, it is best to have a contingency plan, or several. Anticipate his arguments. Know what his doubts are. For example, he may be uneasy about marriage if you are currently unemployed or have children from a previous relationship. Reassure him that these uncertainties are equally important to you and that you will work together with him to overcome any and all obstacles. The most important thing is overcoming them together. Now, if yes is his answer, congratulations! And congratulations for taking charge of this once-in-a-lifetime moment and making it extra special for him.