Marriage Proposal Ideas

The Nitty-Gritty: What is She Really Looking For?

While most women do have visions of the perfect marriage proposal, today's women also have much more in mind than the perfect marriage proposal. Following are some issues that may arise. Keep these in mind when you are ready to ask for her hand, ensuring not only the perfect proposal, but the perfect mate!

• Loyalty
• Overall compatibility
• Feelings regarding children/fatherhood (when, if, and how many to have)
• Mutual interests
• Financial questions
• Future expectations
• Religious compatibility
• Honesty/truthfulness in the relationship
• Extended family
• Living arrangements
• Emotional security

If you're ready to discuss and even compromise on some of these issues, you are ready for some real marriage proposal ideas!

Traditional Proposals

Traditionally, a man proposes to a woman in a romantic setting. A cozy romantic restaurant, an evening stroll in the park, at the beach at sunset, are some of the places where a groom can get down onbended knee. Traditionally a woman is usually surprised with the question and the ring. In modern reality, many couples have begun discussing marriage long before the big question is asked. While you can take great cues from these traditional marriage proposals, it is much more important that you take cues from you hoped-for-fiancée.

Marriage Proposal Ideas from Your Beloved

To come up with the best marriage proposal ideas, think about the loves, interests, hobbies, and pursuits of your beloved. If she is a sports fan, proposing to her at the winning game of her favorite sporting event would be a great proposal idea. Does she love art? An art museum may be the perfect setting. Is she an adventure seeker who loves to ski? Take her to the slopes when you ask her to be your wife. The key is to make a conscious effort to show you have thought about and care about her interests and love her enough to know them.

Girls Asking Guys

While tradition has it that the males ask the question, marriage proposals by women are becoming increasingly popular. For women, the same rules apply. If you love your guy, feel confidant about your relationship, and are willing to make a future together, think about a way to propose that takes his interests and pursuits into account. But don't let this stop you from using your own personality and creativity. After all, he loves you, and is bound to be drawn to a creative expression of your love for him if you decide to take the initiative in proposing marriage.

What About the Ring?

Even the best marriage proposal ideas will fall through if not accompanied by an engagement ring. If you have discussed marriage, you may want to allow your fiancée to pick out his or her own engagement ring. If not, you may be able to exchange or upgrade an engagement band so you beloved has exactly what he or she wants. Don't let the price put off being with the one you love, either! Most jewelry stores offer excellent financing plans if you can't pay for the ring outright. Wherever or however you choose to propose, the perfect marriage proposal comes from your heart!