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With Valentine's Day just around the corner, we put our heads together to determine what 5 essential items are necessary for pulling off the perfect proposal. Surprisingly, it has less to do with romantic music and mood lighting and more to do with forward thinking and stationary objects. Here's what we mean.
1. Consider the ring
Naturally the first thing your fiancé will want do after accepting your proposal is to pop that engagement ring on her finger. Don't get caught in an awkward situation by presenting her with a sparkler that's one size too small. Determine your finance's ring size ahead of time by getting a ring from her jewelry box and bringing it to your local jeweler for sizing. You can also download the Tiffany & Co. Engagement Ring Finder app, which allows you to simply place a ring on the screen a determine her ring size that way.
You'll also want to make sure the ring is insured. Purchasing engagement ring insurance is easy to do and will pay off in the long run. Trust us.
Lastly, don't attach the ring to anything moveable—no animals, no kites, no helium balloons (PS this really happened, it's on YouTube).
2. Show that you know (your woman, or man!)
Do what fits your relationship and personality. If your finacé is shy, don't do the Jumbotron or a flash mob! Not every proposal needs to be public.
Be imaginative, but be personal. The ring on the bottom of a champagne flute has been done. If you love movies, rent out a theater; if your first kiss was on a park bench, go back; if she/he is a crossword fanatic, write one. This story will be repeated and repeated so give them a good one, but bigger isn't necessarily better.
3. Don't jump the gun (this is for the recipient!)
If you have a feeling the proposal is about to happen, don't ruin it. Don't let them know you know, don't go searching for the ring, don't ask too many questions, don't call his/her best friend—just go with it!
4. Phone first, Facebook later
Call your mother! You want your close friends and family to find out before your acupuncturist who happens to be a Facebook friend. Tell the important people in your life by calling them.
5. Celebrate!
Make it a special night. Think ahead and make reservations at a great restaurant or ask family and friends to meet you for a toast. Enjoy the moment! It only happens—we hope—once.
And don't forget in the heat of the moment to ask someone to take your photo the moment you're engaged. You'll want to capture that moment.
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