Proposing during the holiday season is popular for a reason: the magic of the holidays paired with the good timing for planning for summer wedding season means that it’s the perfect time to pop the question. That being said, there are a few things to consider before you make such a big decision that you’ll look back on forever. Below you’ll find everything you need to know before you ask the big question.

Make Sure It’s Not Too Much Of A Surprise

Most people propose having had some type of conversation about doing so already. Getting married is a serious commitment that says that you want to build a future with your partner for the rest of your life, and a decision like that can’t be one sided. If you have yet to talk about marriage in your relationship it may be a good idea to have that discussion before proposing. That way it won’t come as too much of a surprise.

Similarly, this gives you the opportunity to know what your partner’s goals are and figure out if they align with yours. If you want to have children in the next couple of years but your partner would rather focus on their career and independence, you should consider whether or not proposing is the right decision. This blog post from 25 Karats talks about some simple ways to make sure she says yes to your proposal. A proposal should be a pleasant surprise between two people that have already committed to the relationship rather than a one-sided goal.

Plan Something Special

Every step of the proposal should be special because this is a moment that the both of you are going to look back on forever—and tell to every one of your family members and friends throughout your engagement and wedding. Before you pop the question make sure to plan an engagement that feels special for you both as a couple.

Make sure that the way you ask is a way that your partner will like, too, as the wrong setting can feel uncomfortable. Some people love the idea of getting engaged at Disneyland, for example, while others would feel mortified at the thought of having so much attention brought upon them. You know your partner best, so take these things into consideration when you ask such a big, meaningful question.

This blog post has five tips for planning the perfect proposal, so that you can make sure it’s the most special experience possible.

Find The Perfect Ring

Finally, the most important part of a proposal (beyond the actual proposal) is the ring. The ring you choose should be reflective of your partner’s taste in rings but also your love and commitment to them as a person. Before you go ring shopping, have a good understanding of what color metal they prefer and what style ring they love the most.

Often, you’ll find the best variety and selection in places like pawn shops because the rings available are not simply reflective of the most modern styles. For vintage lovers, the selection at pawn shops means that you can often find something extra special for the love of your life. Gems N’ Loans has five locations throughout Southern California including Oceanside and one of the biggest selections of rings and jewelry for all occasions. Find the perfect ring this holiday season and save money while doing it by visiting one of our stores throughout your engagement ring shopping.