Do

Talk about marriage before you propose, talk about the possibility of getting married. Make sure it's something that you both want, and agree on major issues such as children.

Make it a surprise. Even though you have discussed marriage, the proposal itself should still be a surprise. Find a moment and a way that she won't be suspecting.

Top Ten Proposal Locations

Find the right engagement ring. After all, wearing an engagement ring is a lifetime committment, make sure it's the right style. You might find an opportunity to window shop for rings when you are walking past a jewellers, or bring it up in converstion. The wedding rings and engagement rings you choose will be one of the most enduring pieces of your wedding day. Your ring is not only a important element of becoming married, but its also a longlasting symbol of your love and commitment. Therefore, you'll want to choose rings that are timeless and high quality.

Talk to her Parents. We've come a long way from when women were property who needed their father's permission, yet, there is still something nice and respectful about asking for the parents' blessing.

Think about your favorite romantic places -- choose a meaningful spot to pop the question. It could be as simple as in your living room, or as complicated as whisking her away for a weekend in Paris. Just don't ask her in a supermarket or whilst queing for a bag of chips ! According to a wine merchants survey, restaurants are the second most popular place for proposals (at home is the first!). It makes sense that restaurants are so popular, as you'll have a host of people to help you make things perfect. If a restaurant is in your plans, start off by selecting someplace truly special ? perhaps a usual favorite of yours, or one with magical ambiance. Secure those reservations early and while you're doing so, ask to speak to someone about proposing that evening. They'll be experts on the nicest and easiest way to do it at their particular location ? whether it's writing Marry Me on the dessert plate rim, or going for a walk nearby to propose before returning for champagne and dessert

Drop to one knee. It's not 1950, but there is something so charming and romantic about a man on one knee asking the love of his life to marry him. Even if you're not a traditional guy, it will add to the seriousness and lovingness of your proposal.

Tell her why you want to marry her. Don't just utter those 4 little words, tell her why she's the one for you, what marriage means to you, and what your hopes for the future are. You might say something like "My life has never and could never be the same after I met you. You've made me more joyful, more stable, and more inspired. I can't picture the rest of my life without you by my side. Will you do me the honor of marrying me?"

Share the news with all your family and friends.

Don't

Propose in public unless you're confident she wants a splashy proposal, make it an intimate and personal thing. Most brides would prefer to have that magical moment be just the two of you, after all, you've got the rest of your lives to tell other people about your marriage but you've only got one engagement moment.

Hide the ring in food. It's been in a thousand movies and TV shows, and you won't win any points for creativity. Even worse, you may end your romantic proposal with a trip to A&E or the dentist.

Propose in front of her family. While your families will merge with your wedding, it is not their decision to do so. Proposals in front of family have an added level of stress that you don't need. Take this moment to be just the two of you; don't worry, you can call everyone immediately afterwards.

Make it too complicated. While it's good to be creative with your proposal, it is important to keep the focus on what's important: the proposal itself. If you are worrying about whether or not the limousine will get to the balloon ride in time, you're worrying about the wrong thing.

Propose too early in the relationship. When you're in the first flush of love, it's hard not to do impetuous and foolish things. Yet waiting until your relationship is stable will only strengthen your marriage. Make sure you really know each other, and what each other wants from a marriage before you commit to it for the rest of your lives.

Expect her to say "Yes" immediately. You're asking someone to spend the rest of their life with you ? an extremely important decision. Just because you've asked, doesn't mean she is ready to say yes. If your sweetheart says maybe, take it in your stride and give her some time to consider the proposal.