Thinking about popping the question? Well you better start planning! Use our helpful checklist to help you plan your days leading up to the big day.
4 Months Before…
Now is the time to start brain storming. What kind of proposal do you want to do? Do you want to do an extravagant proposal? A quiet, intimate one? Will her family be involved? Will there be third parties you need to contact/hire? Restaurants to rent?
3 Months Before…
Now that you have a good idea of what you want your proposal to be, now is the time to start thinking about how much the proposal will cost. If you decided on a quiet, intimate proposal this step should be easy. If you decided to rent an airplane and fly it all over the city, then you have your work cut out for you.
When budgeting for the proposal remember to start budgeting for the engagement ring as well. Traditionally, expect to pay as much as two months’ salary for the engagement ring. But if you decide to spend a little less, that’s OK. The rule isn’t set in stone.
2 Months Before…
If you’re going to spend as much as two months’ salary for the engagement ring, you definitely don’t want to rush through this step. Research! Go online, pick up a copy of Engagement 101 Magazine and research everything you can about engagement rings. You’ll need to know all about the 4 C’s, metal types, stone shapes and more. The more knowledge you have on engagement rings, the more likely you are to make the right purchase.
1 Month Before…
Now that you know all about the engagement ring, it’s time to start investigating and discovering what types of rings she likes. Anyone can buy an engagement ring, but what’s important is buying an engagement she likes. Read our tips on how to discover her ring style or take our quiz. Now’s also a good time to start heading to jewelry stores and comparing prices.
4 Weeks Before…
You’ll want to reconfirm that reservation date at the restaurant around this time. If you’re planning a more elaborate proposal you might want to start on this a little earlier than four weeks. There’s nothing more unfortunate than having an entire proposal spoiled due to a canceled reservation.
3 Weeks Before…
After shopping around for engagement rings you should probably have a good idea of the perfect ring to buy. So, if you have the money all saved up and ready, now’s the time to start buying! Make sure to ask the jeweler to re-size the ring if needed. Remember to ask for a certificate or appraisal. Oh, and in case she hates the ring, you might want to inquire about their exchange policy.
2 Days Before…
Getting down to the wire! If you’re staging an elaborate proposal that involves friends and family, this might be a good time to start rehearsing. Also, remember to call and confirm any reservations you have made.
THE DAY
Finally! We’re sure you’re a bumbling ball of nerves right now, but just remember to stay calm and not do something stupid like drop the engagement ring off a bridge or something. If she says yes, start planning an engagement party. Good luck!
