Surprise, surprise! The festive period is one of the most popular times to get engaged. Indeed, many people utilise the joy of the festive season to make one of life’s most special moments even more magical.
However, the excitement of proposing can often be overshadowed by the intense anxiety of how to get it perfect, and while there is no ‘right’ way to propose, here we explore some key dos and don’ts of popping the question and making it a moment to remember!
DO – Consider If The Proposal Should Be Public Or Not
Think about whether your partner will want all eyes on them with a public proposal, or if they would prefer something more private and intimate. Different people have different wishes, and a public proposal could be your partner’s worst nightmare while some may love the idea of sharing the joy! If you are unsure then always play it safe. You can’t go wrong with a private proposal for the two of you to enjoy the moment together – just you and your loved one.
Read: 8 amazing surprise proposal ideas (that don’t involve getting down on one knee!)
DO – Make It Meaningful
Proposing is the perfect opportunity to get sentimental and create a meaningful display. Think about including personal moments in your relationship that are meaningful to both of you. Drawing on special details such as your favourite place, that once-in-a-lifetime trip or favourite songs will help make your day that extra bit special and meaningful.
DO – Consider A Bespoke Engagement Ring
Speaking of making things unique and meaningful…
Bespoke engagement rings are a deeply personal choice that stands out during a festive proposal. It allows you to create a one-of-a-kind piece that perfectly captures your partner’s style and the essence of your relationship. From selecting the gemstone to the design of the band, every detail can symbolise your unique bond.
Commissioning a custom ring shows your significant other the care and thought you’ve invested in the proposal. It’s a gesture that will be cherished for a lifetime, much like the ring itself. However, remember that crafting a bespoke piece takes time, so begin the process well in advance of your planned proposal date.
Working with an experienced jeweller, you can even add festive touches to the ring, like engravings of snowflakes or hidden gemstones that reflect the holiday season. A bespoke ring not only captures the magic of Christmas but also the magic of your love story.
DO – Plan Ahead
Planning is essential to make sure you have thought through and prepared all the extra details you want to be included on your special day, whether that’s decorating the location, organising an engagement gathering or party straight after, or ensuring that the moment is absolutely right, planning is essential!
If your partner loves flowers, then perhaps consider ordering a special bunch to mark the occasion, or have them delivered and ready to hand to your loved one after the question has been popped. If they appreciate photos to look back on and remember those special memories, then consider getting someone to secretly record the surprise proposal, or take photos for you to look back on and cherish too!
DO – Get Creative
The Christmas season can also be a great time to get creative with your proposal! Ideas include surprising your partner by wrapping up the box and hiding it in a Russian nesting doll style for them to unwrap.
Or you could hide the ring in a bouquet or a festive hamper of the best bits of the season condensed into an attractive basket – think booze, mince pies, cheese chutneys.
Or even pop the ring into a purpose-made bauble and hang it on the tree for your partner to find! Adding a magical seasonal touch will make that moment even more memorable.
DON’T – Let The Secret Slip Out
Sometimes people stress more about hiding the ring from that special someone that they often overlook other potential spoilers. Make sure you keep all details as secret as possible, even from other friends and family members – unless they’re in on the surprise!
The more people you tell about the proposal, the more you risk that the big surprise could be ruined, or your partner could cotton on to the upcoming moment. Think about who needs to know ahead of time, and save the surprise for others until after you pop the big question!
Read: Festive ways to announce your engagement this Christmas
DON’T – Panic
Although the build-up to the big day can be stressful, remaining calm will help you to slow down and enjoy the process, ensuring everything is perfect and goes to plan. It will also allow you to take any unexpected obstacles in your stride and ensure the perfect proposal is delivered to your loved one this Christmas.
The Bottom Line
In the end, a festive proposal is about crafting a moment so enchanting it feels like it’s been lifted straight from a Christmas tale. It’s the delicate balance of personal touches, heartfelt planning, and a sprinkle of seasonal magic that makes for an unforgettable question-popping experience.
Whether it’s the bespoke ring that tells a story or the carefully orchestrated moment under the mistletoe, each element should be a reflection of the love and history you share.
So, as you wrap up your plans in a bow, remember that the true essence of your proposal isn’t found in grand gestures but in the sincerity and thoughtfulness of your approach. Make it personal, make it genuine, and you’ll make it a chapter in your love story that you’ll both want to revisit every festive season.
Cheers to the beginning of your forever, may your festive proposal be as merry and bright as the season itself!
