Do's and Don'ts

Proposing marriage is a serious matter, but the proposal itself doesn't need to be. It can be fun, romantic, wild, or all three. Even if your proposal features little beyond a ring and a question, you can still give her a wonderful story to tell and earn a "YES", maybe even a "WOW!". Here are a few pointers to get you moving in the right direction.

Dos

Be Prepared.
Saying those four little words: "Will you marry me?" is a big deal, and one that leaves many proposers a little tongue-tied. So practice. It might feel silly, but say the words out loud a few times. Not so many that it comes out canned, but enough so that you know the major points you want to get across. Although you'll have a lifetime to tell her how you feel, you only have one chance to speak your heart as you propose.
Find the Right Ring.
Since wearing an engagement ring is a lifetime commitment, make sure it's the right one for her. You might find an opportunity to window shop for rings when you are walking past a store, or bring it up in conversation. Most brides want their proposal to include an engagement ring, but others are very particular about the style, and want to be part of the buying/designing process. A great option is to choose a diamond and give it to her in a presentation band (complimentary at Hyde Park) then select the perfect setting together after the proposal.
Insure the diamond.
This is one of the first things you should do after purchasing the engagement ring. Typically, the diamond can be added for an additional cost under your homeowner's or renter's insurance policy. We recommend looking into a Value Policy, which will cover you better but may require a jewelry rider. A Replacement Policy is a less expensive alternative. Be sure to ask your insurance agent which option is best for you.
Talk to Her Parents.
We've come a long way from when women needed their father's permission to marry, yet, if she's close to her parents there's still something nice and respectful about asking for the parents' blessing.
Choose a Personal Spot.
Think about your favorite romantic places that you've experienced together to help decide on a truly meaningful spot to ask for her hand. It could be as simple as your living room, where you kissed for hours on your first date, or as extravagant as a trip to Paris.
Make it a Surprise.
Even though you've probably talked about tying the knot, your proposal should still be a surprise. Find a special moment and do it in a way that she won't suspect.
Be Present.
Some of the more over the top and elaborate proposal ideas floating around the web result in your love being asked by billboards, computers, blimps or scoreboards. No matter what you're planning, when the question is popped, you need to be with her. Period.
Drop to One Knee.
It's not 1950, but there's something very charming and romantic about a man on one knee asking the love of his life to marry him. Even if you're not a traditional guy, this tradition will add to the seriousness and lovingness of your proposal.
Make a Proposal for Her, Not You.
This is your moment to show her how much you love her, how well you understand her, and how deeply you care about her happiness. With that in mind, create a proposal that will make her heart sing -- not one that will make your buddies think you're cool. Unless she's the world's biggest football fan, proposing during the halftime show of the Superbowl is probably not the way to go. Pay attention to what she's said in the past, and you're likely to get clues as to what kind of proposal she'd love.
Tell Her Why You Want to Marry Her.
Don't just utter those 4 little words, tell her why she's the one for you, what marriage means to you, and what your hopes for your future together are. She deserves to know and will most likely remember those words for the rest of her life.

Donts

Don't Make it Public.
If we're to believe that the movies imitate life, then every wedding proposal takes place in front of a thousand people in a crowded restaurant or piazza. But unless she's said she wants a splashy proposal, make it an intimate and personal thing. Most brides would prefer to have that magical moment be just the two of you. After all, you've got the rest of your lives to tell other people about your marriage. And by all things holy, keep your proposal as far away from any sporting event as possible. Games are loud and chaotic. Even if she is the biggest sports fan you know, the arena doesn't allow you to have any of the reflection and focus that such a momentous decision deserves.
Don't Hide the Ring in Her Food.
Hiding the engagement ring in her food is a tired and tacky idea. It's been in a thousand movies and TV shows which takes away the chance of winning any creativity points. Even worse, you may end your romantic proposal with a trip to the E.R. or the dentist. The last thing you want to do is propose to her while she's rolling into surgery.
Don't do it in Front of Her Family.
While your families will merge with your wedding, it's not them making that decision. Proposals in front of family add an unnecessary level of stress to both of you. Take this moment for just the two of you. You'll have plenty of time to include your families afterwards.
Don't let other Women Try the Ring on.
It's smart to get a second opinion, but keep the people who have seen the ring to an absolute minimum. Make sure she is the first of her friends to wear her ring, and let her enjoy showing it off for the first time. Be careful, her girlfriends may be jealous and might not share the same enthusiasm that you do. Sad but true.
Don't Leak the News.
When you're ready to pop the question, don't bring too many into the circle of trust. Sharing the news with friends and family is more exciting if you do it together, and after. Remember, the best kept secret is the one that's never told.
Don't Stage a Practical Joke.
Throwing your girlfriend off by convincing her that you're in jail, faking your own death or that you won't be ready for marriage for several years could have unintended consequences. Play it straight and from the heart. Save the gimmicks for the infomercials.
Don't Act like You've Settled (even in jest).
The fastest way to ruin any proposal is to include anything like: "You win"ť, "We're not getting any younger"ť, or "You've worn me down"ť. Be honest with yourself, if you really feel like you're settling, don't go through with it. If she's the one, then acting otherwise isn't even close to clever. Try again.
Don't be Digital.
A text or e-mail is WAY too impersonal and too flippant to be a good proposal. The exception is if you use it as a tool; for example, you text her to meet you at your favorite place to catch the sunset, where you're waiting with the ring. Never e-mail or text message to avoid asking in person, cowboy up and ask her face to face.
Don't do it on Impulse.
Being drunk, depressed or on the rebound is the absolute wrong time to propose marriage. Same goes for instants when you're under the influence of friends or pressure from family. Your love will know if it's not from your heart. You may grow to regret it later.
Don't Embarrass Her.
You may want to shout your proposal to the world, or at least to everyone in the immediate vicinity. Be careful not to let your enthusiasm carry you away. Don't even think about proposing into the microphone on a karaoke night or crowded dance floor. Don't lose sight of what it's all about. Your proposal will be perfect if it's honest, heartfelt and passionate.