Prairie Post (East Edition)

Make your marriage proposal special and successful

- METRO

A marriage proposals is a couple’s first official step toward the altar. Tradition dictates that men pop the question, with their surprised — and hopefully soon-tobe-fiancées — ultimately deciding if wedding bells will be on the horizon.

Proposing marriage can be nervewrack­ing. However, if the time seems right and love is in the air, popping the question can be exciting.

Turn the tides

An old Irish tradition known as “The Lady’s Privilege” was establishe­d in the fifth century by a nun named St. Brigid. She decided to create an opportunit­y for women to propose marriage. This day fell on every leap year, February 29.

Centuries later, women can still use this tradition as the impetus to take the marriage reigns into their own hands. But women need not wait for the next leap year to propose. Many women view proposing as an empowering action that is tied to the evolving view of independen­t women.

Choose a sentimenta­l location

Couples will remember the proposal for the rest of their lives. So choose a proposal location that has sentimenta­l connection­s. Think about where the first “I love you” was uttered or where a first date occurred.

Note her style

Engagement rings play a big role in many couples’ proposals. One person’s style is not necessaril­y what his partner will like. Bigger isn’t always better. Rather, choose a ring that reflects your partner’s preference­s and personalit­y.

Ask for the family’s blessing

Men no longer need to ask their girlfriend­s’ fathers for “permission” to wed their daughters. However, asking your partner’s family for their blessing is a sign of respect and can add a romantic and heartfelt touch to the proposal.

Capture the moment

Though we live in an age when every moment of people’s lives is documented with videos and photograph­s posted to social media, proposals still stand out as extra special moments. Hire a profession­al photograph­er to discreetly capture the proposal and your partner’s reaction so it can be cherished for years to come.

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