So you're finally ready to pop the big question. You saved up two months' salary, bought the ring of her dreams and went through painstaking detail to make sure they spelled her name correctly on the giant scoreboard. Just one thing is bothering you: should you ask her old man for his approval first?
This certainly is a tough question. Not too long ago it was a pretty standard practice. But times have changed, which means there is no longer a clean cut yes or no answer. It all boils down to knowing your future wife and her family. What kind of relationship does she have with them?
If your special lady comes from a very traditional family, accustomed to sitting down to family dinners and going to church every Sunday, it might be in your best interest to ask her father and mother for their blessing before bending down on one knee. If her parents happen to be more of the free-spirit type, chances are they are not going to be offended if your engagement comes as a surprise to them.
Think about how your wife-to-be would feel if you asked her father for permission first - if she doesn't get along so well with her dad, she might not want his approval.
Consider how well you get along with her father. Maybe you've had a rocky relationship with him as well. In this case it might be a gesture of good will to ask him for his daughter's hand. In particularly bad situations, it might be best to forgo the procedure to avoid additional headaches.
What it ultimately comes down to is going with your gut and what feels right to you. Remember it's her decision whether she wants to marry you, not her father's. Whatever you choose to do, if the love is there, it can't be a wrong decision…unless you're really putting her name up on that scoreboard.
 | When thinking up marriage proposal ideas, the location of your proposal is as important as asking your loved one to marry you. The memory of the proposal will last a lifetime and can even be the makings of a great story to pass along to your future offspring. |
 | Creative proposal ideas don't have to be all bells and whistles. |
All right, guys - you did it. You found the love of your life. You've got the ring and you're ready to pop the question, but just getting on one knee and asking her to marry you feels so plain. Your love deserves a marriage proposal you'll both be talking about for the rest of your lives. Make you feel a little worried? |
There's no reason why a woman can't get on bended knee and propose. If you give the matter some thought, think about your partner's reactions, and know you want to spend your life with your partner, you can take matters into your own hands. |
Don't let the thought of popping the question make you nervous. With awareness of your relationship and loved one, not to mention a healthy dose of creativity, you can create a wedding proposal that will make even the most cynical person smile. |
