Timming is Everything

Kids, be mindful of your proposal date. Proposing right before mid-terms or in between huge events or projects at work can be hell for both of you. I had no idea how much time James and I were going to spend talking on the phone, going out with people, and writing emails after our engagement. Of course I loved it all... BUT it was a super hectic time for me at work and since he did it on a vacation I felt as though I had a million things to do when I got back to the office. I would suggest enlisting a friend if you are nervous or taking a peak at their google calendar, blackberry, or planner.

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

Knowing your Significant Other

James and I were discussing some of my latest proposal ideas last night and he brought up a VERY good point. We might have some great ideas for proposing, but if the proposal doesn't match the person it really does not matter how much thought, time, or money you have put it to it.

Guys and girls do not understand each other, no matter how much they are in love. Some people really want a formal traditional proposal with the guy down on one knee. Others would rather a casual "Let's elope". Moral of the story: listen when s/he speaks, when you see a love scene in a movie or commercial say something (ie: "I would never propose that way"), and talk to friends and family if you can.

Proposals on a Holiday

I have heard mixed feelings about getting a ring on a holiday.

Reasons why it is a good idea:
*You won't forget when it happened
*There are lots of creative things you can get away with near the holidays (you can say you are at an office party or shopping with a sibling or grandparent when you are really buying a ring or planning something awesome)

Reasons why it may be a bad idea:
*Some people think it is cheating because holiday proposals are not original (I don't)
*I have heard terrible things about birthday proposals... some women I know think that men do it so they don't forget their anniversary

Some Rules:
*DO NOT PROPOSE ON VALENTINE'S DAY (it is stupid)
*If it is a holiday where your significant other may be expecting a gift, make sure you ask what he/she may want to throw them off your tail

I would love to hear your thoughts on holiday proposals! Stay tuned for holiday specific proposal ideas.

Also, please submit your proposal stories and photos to us at therulesofengagements@gmail.com.

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