Chris and Jaclyn

Jaclyn and Chris had plans to go down to Belmar, NJ on that Saturday night for a walk on the beach and dinner. The weather that day was amazing! Chris was acting strange the whole day. He claimed to be at the laundromat for 3 hours and Jaclyn believed him (he was really getting the ring set, talk about last minute)!! The couple did some errands together and then Chris informed Jaclyn that he was going to play basketball with his best friend Erik. Jaclyn was so mad, because she hardly gets to see Chris during the week and he was going to play basketball!??!

However, Chris wasn't playing basketball at all! He was really going down to Jaclyn's parents' house to ask for her permission in marriage. Immediately Jaclyn's parents thought something was wrong or something bad had happened, but Chris showed them the ring and the tears started. Of course, both Jaclyn's mother and father gave Chris permission. Chris also asked Jaclyn's parents if they would be present when he proposed. He told them the time and location, and they agreed.

Chris then rushed home and told Jaclyn to be ready by 6pm. Jaclyn was even more mad now, because she had to rush an get ready and didn't know why. The two arrived at Belmar boardwalk, 10th Ave, at exactly 6pm and started their walk. Chris kept telling Jaclyn to "look at the waves" or "look at the birds". Jaclyn didn't understand why he was making stupid conversation. Later she found out that Jaclyn's parents had parked right on the boardwalk and he didn't want her to see their car.

As Jaclyn and Chris got to 17th Ave, Chris decided the two would turn back. At this point, Chris asks Jaclyn if she wanted to go down on the beach. She agreed and the couple started to make their way down to the water. As they turned the corner, Jaclyn saw her mother and father standing there with cameras. She was so confused and claimed her parents were "stalking" her. No one said anything to her, and she could see her parents tearing up. Jaclyn then realized what was going on. Chris asked if Jaclyn could turn around. She turned around to find Chris on one knee with a beautiful ring in the middle of the boardwalk, at sunset. Seriously perfect! The rest is a little bit blurry, I just remember putting the ring on and saying yes!

Talking to the folks

I know that people totally stress about this one.

Here are my thoughts: It might seem old-fashioned but I like the idea. It brings you closer to your soon-to-be in-laws. I just read that you are not sitting down with them for permission- because technically they can't stop you- you are asking for their blessing. I suggest taking his/her folks out to lunch, but if that is not possible you can always call (this option may seem less stressful, especially if you are really nervous)

Who has suggestions?

General Rules of Engagements

All of these ideas are Steph's:

While it may seem old fashion I think that asking his or her parents is really important. While you are at it, talk to your folks. They will appreciate that you are asking their input and will remember it later.

I LOVE the idea of having a photographer on hand the day you pop the question. Everyone will totally appreciate the priceless gift you have created. It is a once in a lifetime opportunity and the look on each of your faces will be completely genuine. If you get married in a park or even in a restaurant, it can be easy to have someone with a camera hiding. You don't even need to pay a pro if you can get a college kid to do it. Call up the local college art department and find out if someone is in need of bulking up their portfolio.

If you know that your significant other is going to say yes and is not shy I think public engagements can be very romantic. Some of my favorite stories include a room full of family. (This is also a great photo opp, family will do it for free!) I recommend letting friends and family know ahead of time that this will be coming.

If you want the ring to be the perfect fit you can do one of two things. Either steal a ring and take it to the jewelers. Or if s/he wears his/her ring/s constantly steal it and make an impression on a piece of bread or in clay. Take this to the jewelers and they can measure it for you.

That's all for now