Rules

The numbers are in:

90% of women want the man to get down on one knee and have a ring to give her (even if he will be enlisting her help later to pick out the actual engagement ring)**

81% of women said that asking mom and dads permission is vital. **

Who would have thought?

**theknot.com

My thoughts on a Thursday Morning

Does he have to talk to your dad?

According to this blog, yes he does.

Oy vey, I get nervous thinking about.

Please leave your experiences here... What the hell did you do?

And I would love to hear about couples who announced it together to their families.

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