proposals

Popping the question, also known as the proposal moment, is a memorable moment for most couples. Proposals range from incredibly elaborate to very romantic, to simply sweet reflecting the individuality of the person proposing and of the couple themselves. Over nearly a decade of working with couples I’ve heard hundreds of proposal stories, and can tell you that even when meticulously planned, they sometimes don’t go as planned.

Here are a few proposal stories that have been shared with me through the years, ranging in complexity from elaborate to non-existent:

1. A trip to Paris is always memorable, but add in a stop on an historic bridge near sunrise, with a photographer discretely capturing the scene. The prospective groom drops to one knee and offers a beautiful ring to his love. Her “Yes” completes the fairy tale moment, and it came off without a hitch.

2. The getaway weekend planned to a regional spot with plans for a specific moment and location for the proposal moment. Yet, when they arrived, the proposer couldn’t wait any longer, and popped the question as soon as they arrived. I’ve heard variations on this story many times and tend to agree that it’s more fun to spend the weekend celebrating together rather than being nervous while waiting for “the moment” to arrive.

3. A winter camping trip planned to enjoy the love of nature and camping that the couple shares. However, the weather didn’t cooperate with temperatures dropping into dangerous territory curtailing the weekend and leading to a shivering proposal on the hike back to warmth and civilization. Not exactly what was planned, but it certainly is a story that will be shared for years to come.

4. A simple, at home proposal, maybe with the assistance of beloved pets. These have happened in the kitchen while preparing dinner, in the living room while gaming, and even in the dark in the basement. Whatever makes sense for you makes for the perfect proposal moment.

5. And last but not least, not popping the question at all. For some couples there is a natural progression from “If I ever get married…”, to “If we ever get married…”, to “When we get married…” that kind of removes the need for an actual proposal moment. These couples often ring shop together and enjoy the non-proposal experience.

So if popping the question is in your future – either as the popper or the popee, know that there are all kinds of proposal moments, and that sometimes they don’t go as planned. The important thing is that you’ve found the right person to share your life with and you’ve decided to celebrate your commitment with marriage. As we enter the “engagement season” I offer encouragement to everyone popping the question around the holidays, and hope you experience the proposal moment that is perfect for you.