Question for the romantics

I'd personally go for the 'asking in private' option and choosing a ring together. Don't try to plan everything to the last detail, allow a bit of spontinuity. When I proposed to Ibby it wasn't planned at all, I just came out with 'I don't suppose you'd like to marry me?' over a pint in the pub. Don't worry too much about the how or where, if you love her, do it!

Matt,

I think privately but with the Jelly Ring. I think that if that is an ongoing joke between the two of you that it would be lovely. I would certainly appreciate it. Then it also leaves you the option of going ring shopping with her. Means you can do it together, make a day/weekend of it and you know that she is happy with the ring she has got. (Not that she wouldn't be, but you know what I mean!)

She is obviously waiting for a proposal so there`s no worries about potential humiliation. I`d wait for the party then as you say make a nice speech. Start with a toast to her on her birthday and then add how she`d once said that she wouldn`t mind what ring it was then go down on one knee and present her with the jelly ring

After she`s laughingly (I hope!) accepted the jelly ring then tell her that you`re going shopping so that she can choose her ring. Just say that as it`s her who is going to be wearing the ring for the rest of her life you want one that she is completely happy with.

Very best of luck with whatever way you decide to do it

Private - without meaning yo sound nasty, you dont want to be turned down in front of people

Real ring - you dont want to be slapped + you put more thought it to it

Not that i know or any thing but just my opinion

Oh good luck!!!

[Stu]

It's like any gift - she should be happy with what she gets. So I say you should choose the ring, just try & make a bit of effort to get the size right.


But what do I know

[Bri w]

If you know really well, lol you should do, proper ring and at the party.

For all your jokey nature, which all your friends appreciate, you need to set the right level of seriousness for this one.

Buy the ring and do it in private is what I did with no regrets.

I did stress about getting the ring size right, so a while before I planned to pop the question I made up some story about a mate at work buying a ring for his potential wife that she utterly hated, then nonchalantly said something like, "So what types of ring would you like?" Then 'conveniently' we'd wander past a jewellery store and I tried, "Go on, show me what type of ring you like." Then, "Shall we try one on just for fun?" (This is where you make a note of the size).

Then I had to wait about six months for her to forget all this.

Then I popped the question.

And the ring fitted perfectly. But don't panic - rings can be adjusted for size.

Ultimately, just go with what feels right for you. If you're okay with it she'll be okay with it. And definitely ask the old man beforehand like you're planning to do. I did it not thinking it was a big deal. It IS a big deal. Will earn you max brownie points with the in-laws, which can be redeemed later when you need to pay for the Wedding!

Dont do it front of her friends, it will just put unneccesary pressure on you and her.
In private, at least you can hopefully celebrate afterwards

If she is wanting you to propose she will sort of be expecting you to do it at the party. If you dont you will be in the bad books. I would do it at the party with the jelly ring (no sexual inuendo meant). Then take her shopping after payday.

dizzy - Libby had a photo shoot up in London a few weeks ago and we were early so I went for a wander and ended up in Hatton Garden OMG it was amazing, I have never seen so many jewellers shops, not an H Samuel in sight. Lots had security guards, some had nothing in the windows and you had to ring doorbell to get in. You will be spoiled for choice up there.

[Drew Carey]

I voted for in private with the Jelly Ring......

Its these little quirky touches that you remember that make a relationship different and amazing. The you need not worry about the pressure of buying her the right or wrong ring.