So you’re ready to propose… nervous yet? Asking someone to marry you is one of the biggest and most important decisions you’ll make in life. Sure you’re going to feel a little nerved-up and excited, but here are a few practical things you can do to make the moment so special you’ll both remember it for years to come — even if you end up getting tongue tied in the moment!

1. Keep a healthy perspective. Your proposal and wedding day are two significant milestones, but don’t let them become so big they overwhelm you. As wonderful and romantic as they are, they are just days together… upticks in the trajectory of your whole married life. The moments you’ll share over the rest of your life are where deep, tried-and-true love really take shape. Celebrate these moments for the wonder they are — but don’t forget they’re events leading up to the main event — a lifetime together.
2. Know your audience. If you’ve made it to this point, you definitely know your partner well. Be sure to consider them first and foremost when you’re crafting your proposal plan. Are they introverted or extroverted? Would they prefer a very public proposal in the middle of a sporting event or busy park? Or would that attention make them uncomfortable? Perhaps she would love to have her family present, or maybe it should just be you two. Your proposal definitely needs to reflect both of you — but your soon-to-be-fiance should be priority number one.
3. Keep it simple. A proposal doesn’t have to include a flashmob or hot air balloon ride to be meaningful. It doesn’t have to be grand to be great.
4. Don’t hesitate to ask for help. Does her sister know which ring she wants? Maybe you need someone to hide and take pictures, or light candles ahead of your arrival? Your loved ones and friends will get a charge out of being part of your big day — don’t feel weird asking for their help or advice.
5. Pick the right place. Is there a particular place that has always felt significant to you, or to the two of you together? It may be your family’s cabin where you spent every winter, or the location of your first date. Pick a place with meaning — and minimal distraction.
6. Don’t rush to share. In our Facebook and Instagram-focused world, your excitement will want to get the best of you. Be sure to phone your family first and take your time sharing the news online. It’s fun to have a little secret that only the two of you know — and keep in mind that once you break the news, everyone will be clamoring for details.
7. Don’t come empty-handed. Obviously we feel strongly about helping you find the perfect ring, but that doesn’t mean you have to propose with THE ring. If you don’t want to spoil the surprise that you’re planning to propose, you can always purchase a simple ring, or use another item of jewelry to propose — and then shop for the perfect ring together. But whatever you do, make sure your proposal contains something more than just words (as eloquent as they may be). Every woman wants a special token to mark the second she said “yes” to forever.