Christmas is the most popular time of the year for wedding engagements. As one of the most magical and jolly times of the year, it’s the perfect time to get on one knee and pop the question. Right now, there’s hundreds (or thousands) of people in Ireland with butterflies and nervous anticipation as they plan the big question in two days’ time. Here are some tips to help you plan the perfect Christmas proposal and help settle some last-minute nerves:
1. Plan the details
As Roy Keane would say “Fail to prepare, prepare to fail”! Plan the time and location for when you are going to propose to your partner. Whether you’re planning the traditional “getting on one knee”, or leaving the ring under the Christmas tree, it’s crucial to have this thought through. Decide whether you want the moment to be intimate or shared with friends and family. If you want to capture the moment with photos or a video, enlist the help of a trusted friend or better yet – hire a professional photographer!
Think about locations that hold sentimental value for your relationship. Whether it’s your cosy living room by the fire or out for a romantic walk, choosing the right setting adds a personal touch to your proposal.
2. Incorporate Holiday Traditions
Take advantage of the time of the year to make your proposal even more memorable. Slip the ring into an ornament and hang it on the tree, hide it in a Christmas cracker, or reveal it during a family gift exchange. These ideas blend the excitement of the season with the joy of your special moment.
3. Time It Right
Christmas can be a very busy period and a hive of activity, so make sure to pick a moment when you and your partner can fully savour the experience. Whether this is over Christmas Eve drinks or proposing during the madness of Christmas morning with the kids, timing is crucial. Avoid moments when distractions might take away from the intimacy of your proposal.
4. Get Creative with the Ring Presentation
There are many creative methods to spruce up how you present the engagement ring to your partner to make the moment extra special. Consider hiding the ring in a small gift box, attaching it to a string of fairy lights, or placing it in a stocking. Whatever your method – MAKE SURE THE RING IS SAFE AND SECURE – you don’t want it getting lost in all the commotion of Christmas!
5. Practice What You’ll Say
You know what they say, practice makes perfect! While there is no need for a long, soppy speech (avoid these!!), prepare a few heartfelt words and practice these to help calm your nerves and keep a level of focus. Share why you want to spend your life together and why you chose this moment to propose. Speak from the heart, and your words will be perfect.
6. Embrace the Festive Atmosphere
Take advantage of the Christmas holidays and your (hopefully) time off to fully celebrate your special moment. Check out our previous blog post here to full appreciate the advantages of a Christmas engagement.
7. Consider Your Partner’s Preferences
Take the time to think about your partner’s preferences and ideas. It’s likely the topic has come up in previous conversation, so try read the subtle hints and preferences of your partner. Whether they’d prefer an intimate moment or a grand gesture, tailor your proposal to their personality and preferences.
8. Celebrate Together
One major advantage of a Christmas engagement is the presence around you of so many friends and family. Once they’ve (hopefully!) said “yes,” take time to celebrate your engagement! Share the news with family and friends, share a toast over Christmas drinks, or enjoy a cosy evening together to let the moment sink in.
Christmas proposals are brimming with romance and joy, creating memories you’ll treasure forever. With a little planning and a lot of love, you can make this holiday season the beginning of your happily ever after.
Looking for the perfect wedding venue to celebrate your engagement? Contact us at Lucan Spa Hotel to learn more about our stunning wedding packages and start planning your dream day today!