Creative ways women have proposed

Photo: iStock.com/skynesher

Proposing to a man has not always been the tradition. Only in the modern world has it suddenly become more commonplace — and it marks a welcome change. For some, it’s all about shattering stereotypes and doing exactly what you want without a second thought. For others, it’s about taking the next step without waiting for the other person to ask first.

Whatever your motive, it’s important to know precisely how to propose to a man if you’ve got rings and weddings on the brain. The good news is that breaking from tradition also means separating yourself from the notion that everything must be done a certain way. Don’t want to drop down on one knee? Don’t! Want to keep it super personal and intimate? Do it! It’s all about what makes you both comfortable and how you envision that perfect moment.

Take Some Inspiration From the Celeb Set

First, consider that you aren’t the first. You’re about to join a long line of women who decided they weren’t going to wait around for their significant other to do the asking. According to her own diaries, Queen Victoria proposed to Prince Albert all the way back in 1839. “… he was so kind, so affectionate … I really felt it was the happiest brightest moment in my life,” she wrote. In a decidedly more modern-day approach, songstress Pink proposed to husband Carey Hart during one of his motocross races. “Will u marry me?” read her sign, punctuated by a cute “I’m serious!” at the end.

Narrowing Down Your Personal Proposal Style

You don’t have to beckon your prince to your chambers or hold up a poster board for all to see — unless you really want to, of course. There are so many fun and memorable ways to propose to him in a manner that is comfortable for you. First, consider what type of engagement scenario might feel best for both of you. Do you prefer more low-key events in general, or are you into luxury and extravagance? Your tastes should dictate the trajectory of your proposal. It’s equally important to think about privacy. Would you prefer to ask the question in a public venue that holds some special meaning to both of you? For many women, it may be easier and more relaxing to propose in a private, familiar setting.

Completely Doable Proposal Ideas

Think about the practical details that go into proposing to someone. You need to select a location and a ring, and you may also want to seek his parents’ blessing if that is something that is important to you both.

  • If you aren’t sure of his ring size, you have a couple of options. If he regularly wears some type of ring or has one in his jewelry box, you can take that to a jewelry store and have a salesperson provide you with a size. Or you may want to forgo the ring altogether and surprise him with a different item — an engagement watch, perhaps?
  • Then think about how you’re actually going to pose the question. Would it be funny if you got down on one knee to ask for his hand? That’s one method that’s sure to wow him if he wasn’t expecting a proposal! But you can also create a fun day out that revolves strictly around having a good time together, whether that means going for a hike, going on a foodie tour through the city, or exploring downtown together like it’s the first time.
  • If he’s all about indulging in a delicious home-cooked meal, then you know what to do here. Prepare all of his favorites and think of a suitable way to serve it, whether it’s a candlelit dinner or a cozy picnic at your favorite secluded outdoor spot in the country. Don’t forget to include that dessert he loves and a bottle of sparkling wine to toast in style!

While proposing to a man may seem like a major undertaking, you’ll feel completely relieved and more than elated when he says “yes” — and then you can move on to the other stages of the wedding planning process! Before that, however, you’ll want to share your good news with your nearest and dearest. Consider throwing a fun engagement party to celebrate your upcoming nuptials and give your loved ones a chance to hear all about your amazing proposal story.