Proposing marriage is a profound event in and of itself. But you can definitely take advantage of the heightened emotions of the holiday season to make popping the big question even more meaningful. The sentiments of love and family run high at this time of year, and the turning of the calendar has us all considering the path we will take and the changes we’ll make in the coming months, so it only makes sense to think about a future with your one and only. But if you’re going to propose on New Year’s Eve, you don’t want to phone it in just because you’ve got the nostalgia of the season and the hope of a new beginning on your side. If you still want your proposal to be memorable, make a plan that speaks to the special qualities that only the holidays can offer. Here are a few ideas to get you on the right track.
1. Stroke of midnight. Proposing just at the turning of the year is not a new idea, but the significance cannot be tarnished by its rather obvious appeal. So once the countdown begins, take your love aside and make your future intentions clear.
2. Reverse proposal. Hey ladies! If you’re ready for your life to begin, why wait for the man to get the ball rolling? Try a little role-reversal by getting to one knee as you make a resolution to devote the coming year (and indeed, the rest of your life) to the man you love.
3. Ring in the toast. Give her the ring when you ring in the New Year with your traditional champagne toast. As she lofts her stemware high, she will no doubt see the sparkling promise in the bottom of her bubbly. If she’s not terribly observant, you may want to brush up on your Heimlich Maneuver, just in case.
4. Have waiter bring it on the dessert tray. If you’re out for a romantic dinner, order dessert at the end, but prearrange to have the waiter bring out the ring box on a covered tray so you can reveal your sweet treat.
5. Coat check. Many couples opt to attend large, public gatherings on New Year’s Eve, most of which have a coat check service to ensure that everyone goes home with their own belongings. Entrust your ring box to the coat-check girl and when you hand in your claim checks at the end of the night, have her bring out the ring box instead of your coats.
