As someone who’s had the privilege of photographing countless magical proposal moments, I’ve noticed some telltale signs that couples are ready to take that next big step. Today, I’m sharing those insights with you with 10 signs you’re ready to propose, along with some advice on what to do once you’ve decided it’s time to pop the question. So, let’s dive in!

Emotional Signs You’re Ready to Propose

1. You can’t imagine your life without them

Remember when you used to daydream about your future and it was all about you? Well, if you’ve noticed that your partner has become a permanent fixture in those dreams, it’s a beautiful sign. When you can’t imagine your future without them by your side, it’s a pretty good indicator that you’re ready to make it official.

2. Planning for a future together feels natural and exciting

Have you found yourself having more and more conversations about your shared future? If you’re openly discussing your hopes, dreams, and plans together without breaking into a cold sweat, it’s a great sign you’re ready to propose. Being able to visualize and plan your life together is a crucial foundation for a lasting commitment.

3. You’re comfortable being your genuine self around them

There’s something magical about being with someone who not only accepts you for who you are but celebrates it. If you can be your true self around your partner – quirks, bad jokes, and all – and feel loved unconditionally, you’ve struck gold.

4. You’ve been through challenges together and emerged stronger

Life isn’t always sunshine & rainbows. If you’ve weathered some storms together and come out stronger on the other side, it’s a testament to your relationship’s resilience. Facing challenges as a team and growing from them is a solid indicator that you’re ready for the commitment of marriage.

Practical Signs You’re Ready to Propose

5. Your financial goals align

While love doesn’t pay the bills, having similar financial goals and a stable financial situation can certainly make life easier. If you’ve had open discussions about money and feel aligned in your financial values and goals, you’re on the right track.

6. You’ve lived together or spent time together in each other’s space

Whether you’re currently living together or have spent significant time in each other’s spaces, being comfortable in shared environments is crucial. If you can navigate the day-to-day realities of life together – from doing dishes, making meals together, to sharing a bathroom – you’re well-prepared for a lifetime of togetherness.

7. You’ve integrated well with each other’s loved ones

Meeting the family (or chosen family) and/or friends can be nerve-wracking, but if you’ve crossed that bridge and feel at ease with each other’s loved ones, it’s a good sign. Building positive relationships with your partner’s loved ones can provide a strong support system for your future together.

8. You have similar views on major life decisions

Are your visions on major life choices compatible? Whether it’s views on having (or not having) children, career aspirations, or where you want to put down roots, having similar outlooks on these big decisions is important for a harmonious future together.

9. You’ve worked on personal growth and feel ready for commitment

Before you can fully commit to someone else, it’s important to feel comfortable and confident in yourself. If you’ve been working on personal growth and feel ready to share your life with someone else, you’re in a great place to propose.

10. You’re excited about the idea of marriage, not just a wedding

There’s a big difference between being excited about a wedding and being thrilled about a marriage. If the idea of building a life together, supporting each other’s dreams, and growing old side-by-side fills you with joy, you’re ready to take the leap.

What’s Next? Preparing for the Big Moment

So, you’ve recognized these signs in your relationship – congratulations! Now, let’s talk about what comes next. Here are some steps to consider as you prepare to pop the question:

Engagement Ring Research

Start looking into engagement rings or other symbols of commitment that resonate with you and your partner. Consider casually popping into a jewelry shop while you’re out and about together to get a feel for what kinds of rings they gravitate towards. Do they like yellow gold or prefer white gold or silver? Do they like diamonds, or are there other gemstones they like (ruby, garnet, sapphire, emerald, etc.). Any solid jewelry shop should offer a free ring sizing too to get an idea of your ring sizes.

Budget Wisely

Set a realistic budget for the ring and the proposal. You may have heard the sentiment of “spending two to three months’ worth of your salary on a engagement ring.” But that is a myth and should not add any financial pressure or stress your way. Remember, it’s the thought and love behind the gesture that truly matters, not the price tag.

Location, Location, Location

When considering where to propose, locations generally fall into two categories – places you’ve been before OR places you’ve never been but have wanted to visit. If you’ve like to choose a meaningful spot for your proposal, it could be where you first met, your favorite hiking trail, or simply a place that holds special memories for both of you. Alternatively, if you two have a vacation planned to a destination you’re both excited about, planning your proposal to take place on that trip can be a special highlight and allow you the open time to celebrate too.

Document the Moment

Consider hiring a photographer to discreetly capture the proposal. These photos will be treasured keepsakes for years to come. (And hey, I know a pretty good photographer if you need one! 😉) A solid proposal photographer will make a game plan with you in advance to figure out the Where, When & How of your proposal plans so you’re feeling confident. Hiring a proposal photographer can also mean the immediate chance to get engagement photos while you two are in you lovey-dovey “just engaged” feels.

Making It Meaningful: Unique Proposal Ideas

Your proposal should be as unique as your love story. Here are some ideas to spark your imagination:

1. Write a heartfelt love letter expressing your feelings and why you want to spend your life together. You could even turn this into a treasure hunt, leaving clues that lead to the final letter and the big question.

2. Create a scrapbook or digital slideshow of your relationship milestones, ending with a page or slide asking the big question. When Jessie proposed to her long-time girlfriend, Kelly, she had been planning it for some time to get all the details just right. She had bought a personalized brick that said “Marry Me?” installed in their city’s courthouse square, and surprised her with a framed illustration of their relationship milestones that lead to her proposal! Adorable, right??

3. If you’re an adventurous couple, plan a hiking trip or outdoor excursion and propose at a scenic overlook or beautiful natural setting. If you’re planning to propose while on vacation or traveling to a new destination, your local proposal photographer may have some good location ideas!

4. If you’re open to a little more planning, hiring a picnic vendor like Evergreen Picnics to set-up a romantic picnic meal for you & your love in a park can be a fantastic way to celebrate right away!

Final Thoughts: Trust Your Heart

At the end of the day, you know your relationship better than anyone else. If you’re feeling these signs that you’re ready to propose and your heart is telling you it’s time, trust that instinct. There’s no perfect moment or “right time” to propose – it’s about committing to love, growth, and a shared future with your person.

Remember, the proposal is just the beginning of your next great adventure together. It’s not about creating a picture-perfect moment (though I’m always here to help capture it if you want!), but about expressing your love and commitment to each other.

So, take a deep breath, listen to your heart, and get ready to start the next beautiful chapter of your love story. And hey, if you need any more advice or want to chat about capturing your special moment, I’m just a message away. Here’s to love, adventure, and happily ever afters!