10 Vital Things to Know Before You Propose

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Here at Bel Aire Bridal, we are married, single, it’s complicated, on a second marriage, widowed—with different ages and life challenges. One thing we all agree on: getting married is so special.

If you’re thinking about spending your life with your current partner, congratulations! You are about to embark on a wonderful journey together, and we couldn’t be more excited for you.

In the spirit of Valentine’s Day, we’re going to cover a few things that you should know before you get down on one knee. Make sure you’re proposing the right way!

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Is He/She Marriage Material?

A person’s moral values, political views, and personality quirks (even their sports teams) usually stay the same despite other changes in life. To be marriage material, your partner should be right for you. Check out our blog 12 Signs You’re With the One if you have ANY doubts about moving forward. *

Ready, Set…

Timing is everything, even when you feel deeply in love. If you’re not ready or he/she isn’t ready, the engagement may do more harm than good. An honest talk about your relationship and expectations about a future together is a nice alternative to a symbolic ring.

How to Love

Couples who get divorced were never as in love as you two… right? Thing is, there’s an important psychology and physiology to love. How does your partner prefer to be appreciated? How do they need to be intimate? Know the specifics of how he/she wants to express and receive love.

How to Fight

If your relationship is pure bliss, chances are it actually isn’t. Many people can get along when times are good; running into challenges will reveal how you relate when it’s not so wonderful. Marriage really is for better and worse. Learn to communicate and be prepared to deal with the worse.

All Those Secrets

Do you know about his childhood crush? That humiliating experience she had in high school? How much student loan debt he really has? Her secret ambition? The weird dream he had last night? Genuine communication goes beyond superficial conversations. Marriage is for life, so be your real self!

About That Sparkler

A nice, basic approach to engagement ring shopping is as follows: research gemstones and the 4 C’s, find an ethical jewelry company, and pick a ring within your budget. When choosing a ring style, you can use social media to help, or just find one that matches his/her personality.

Popping the Question

When proposing, be absolutely sure that your partner will say yes. Your intuition will tell you—and many people even drop hints. If you’re unsure, wait awhile. No one wants to be the girlfriend or boyfriend who has to think up an awkward reply and/or break off a relationship prematurely.

Audience & Ambiance

Proposing is as much about the experience as the question itself. Are you in a private, romantic setting? Somewhere memorable? Somewhere with a view? Also, who is there to witness this big moment—just the two of you, the whole family, a handful of strangers passing by? Plan it out.

Your Delivery

Most women still expect a proposal delivered on one knee with a ring in hand. The basic, “Will you marry me?”  is acceptable. Some people ask using their partner’s full name or give a short speech that expresses their feelings of devotion. Points for creativity, but keep it genuine and you’ll be fine.

How to Celebrate

Getting engaged is a significant event, often professionally photographed or caught on video. A surprise engagement party right afterwards can be nice, if that’s your partner’s style. Other people might prefer a romantic day alone together. Know what he/she would like out of this experience.

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We wish you a wonderful proposal and happy Valentine’s Day!

XO,

Bel Aire Bridal

*We hope our suggestions are helpful to you! If you need to resolve serious issues in your relationship, we recommend consulting a licensed marriage counselor or professional therapist.

5 Hot Summer Date Ideas for Couples

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Just started dating? Engaged? Married for a while? No matter how old your relationship is, having fun together is important. Give your summer a romantic twist with these fabulous date ideas.

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Make a Splash

The beach is always a good idea. Pack a bikini and check out the ocean nearest you! If you don’t live on the coast or it’s freezing even in July, no problem! Head to natural hot springs, a water park, the lake, or a close river. Snorkeling, river rafting, body boarding, canoeing, and jet skiing are all great summer activities. Getting wet and wild is fun for everyone.

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Spice Things Up

Going out to dinner is fun, but you can shake things up by cooking an incredible meal and staying in. And taking something out of a box doesn’t count. This is a do-it-yourself, I-had-to-use-a-cookbook, start-from-scratch sort of deal. Choose a recipe you’ve always wanted to try, or put a gourmet twist on your partner’s favorite meal! Add some wine and a delicious dessert, and you have the makings of an unforgettable evening.

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Give It a Twist

Dancing is an intimate, sensual activity just made for date night. Check out a local studio and find a lesson series that sounds fun to both of you! If you want a formal ballroom dance that gives you a chance to get dressed up, learn to waltz. To loosen up, take swing dance or salsa lessons! If you’re up for the challenge, an exotic Latin dance like tango or rumba will heat up your relationship in a hurry.

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Hit The Streets

Summer is festival season. Get off the couch and take advantage of local activities! Craft fairs, fireworks, strawberry festivals, lavender festivals, carnivals, chili cook-offs, Saturday markets, street jazz, outdoor concerts, movies in the park, and art walks are just a few ideas. Find out what your city has to offer and start saving the dates!

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Challenge and Conquer

Longer days and warmer weather gives us the opportunity to enjoy nature. Make this the summer you Did That Thing You Always Wanted To Do—and share the experience with your partner! Plan a cruise or road trip, train for a marathon or triathlon, participate in an adventure run series, visit a national park, hike a mountain, camp in the wilderness, or take up a new sport! Seize the opportunity to have a spectacular adventure together.

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What are you looking forward to doing this summer? Share your favorite date ideas!

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