Choosing the right time to propose

Engagement 101 Mag Blog offered an insightful article on ‘picking the right time to propose’ which inspired us to consider this quandary in more detail.  After all, the day you decide to pop the question will be one of the most memorable in your life. They point out that when it comes to important announcements (like getting married or having a baby), let’s face it, people want their time to shine and do not want their thunder stolen.  Which is why timing is incredibly crucial.

To avoid a clash of special events, someone who is planning to propose should consult their partner’s family (particularly siblings) and close friends to guarantee that their news will not stifle another’s.  Not only is it considered proper proposal etiquette to be certain others are happy with your plans, but it is incredibly sensible on your part.

Many men decide to choose a special day for their proposal which will mark the occasion significantly. But which are the best days, and which ones should you avoid?

It may come as a shock to many guys that Valentine's Day is not the best day for a marriage proposal. Sure it’s romantic, but it’s also cliché. Every woman imagines her proposal to be special and unique; Valentine’s day is just too obvious and unimaginative.

What about her birthday?  At least a birthday is meaningful to the individual and there’s no better present than an engagement ring. But if you do decide to pop the question on her birthday, don't forget to do something to celebrate her birthday. Maybe throw in a cake as well.

Christmas is another major day for marriage proposals. Already a time for gift-giving, there can be great moments for creative or fun ways to present the engagement ring or ask the big question. Why not present her with some beautiful jewellery and tell her you are hoping she will wear it at your wedding, or hide an engagement ring inside another present, or even record a secret proposal onto her new iPod.

New Year's Eve is another date that many men choose to ask for her hand in marriage, and there is a lot working in your favour on this day.  Firstly, it is a happy celebratory day and everyone is in a great mood, and if she says yes, it will be the most perfect start to the New Year.

Easter is a less common holiday to propose, but it could work just as well.  Perhaps you could slip the engagement ring into an Easter egg to surprise her, or mention that next spring would be a wonderful time to start a family if she would agree to marry you today.

Choosing a day which has significance, like the anniversary of your very first date, can also be very romantic and she will be impressed at your memory!  There is no reason that your marriage proposal should happen on a holiday date at all. The day will become extremely special for your relationship no matter what day it occurs.

What do you think? Is it polite and important to consider others when choosing your proposal date?  And should the day for the special moment coincide with another memorable holiday?