How to Accept a Marriage Proposal: 11 Steps (with Pictures)

Three Parts:Preparing for a ProposalAccepting the ProposalPreparing to MarryQuestions and Answers

It’s easy to get excited if you’re expecting a proposal. You may dream about the moment and how you’ll react; you may even live the proposal a thousand times over in your head before it actually happens. Marriage proposals can be surprising or expected, depending on the dynamic of your relationship and the circumstances surrounding the proposal. No matter the circumstances, however: if you want to get married, all you need to do is smile, say “Yes!”, and accept the proposal with grace.

Part 1 of 3: Preparing for a Proposal

1
Don’t ruin the surprise. If you believe that your partner plans to propose to you, give him or her the chance to carry out a plan. Don’t try to rush the process along. Don’t give any indication that you expect it.
- If you find out for certain that your partner is planning to propose, you can take two approaches. You can address the situation up-front and tell your partner that you know, or you can wait for the proposal and do your best to act surprised. Consider which scenario will work best within your relationship dynamic.
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Don’t get ahead of yourself. If you know that your significant other is planning to propose, try to keep it to yourself. Restrain your excitement; don’t tell your friends, your parents, or even strangers. Nothing is certain. You might be embarrassed or disappointed if you build the situation up in your head.
3
Make sure that your answer is “yes”. Think about your life, career, and relationship goals; your maturity level and your personal finances; your significant other. Ask yourself whether getting married is the right choice for you right now. If you say yes, you should do so wholeheartedly, without any doubts. Explore your misgivings, if you have any, and determine how valid they are.[1]
- Search your soul. Make a list of pros and cons, or journal your thoughts, or speak with a trusted confidante. It is perfectly reasonable to do a bit of soul-searching before making such a huge decision.
- If you find yourself uncertain, do not feel pressured to accept the proposal. You can always ask your partner to give you time. You can keep the relationship in your life without committing to a marriage just yet. You don’t need to do anything that makes you uncomfortable.
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