PERFECT PROPOSAL TIPS FOR THE GROOM-TO-BE IN KANSAS CITY

The silver screen has made a huge impact on how we think about wedding proposals. From a young age we see many "ideal" proposals in the movies, such as those fairytale stories. Later, we watch romantic tearjerkers with memorable proposal scenes, such as those featured in Love Actually, Pride & Prejudice, and even The Wedding Singer. Because of the ubiquity of proposal scenes in films, most people will think a lot about how they want to propose before they do it. You can avoid feeling overwhelmed by following a few simple guidelines.

First, ask for permission. This may seem a little old-fashioned to some, but these days you're not really asking for permission, it's more like asking for their blessing. After all, you're going to become an important part of their family. You'll want to show them that you are well-intentioned and sincere about this lifelong decision. Honoring little traditions will not only be an excellent bonding moment, it will also help to show that you are excited about joining your future family.

Next, get the ring. You may not want to whisk away to the Eiffel Tower, have champagne chilling for that tearful "yes!" moment or use a standard script when proposing, but the truth is, it's not a real proposal without the engagement ring. Your unique proposal is up to you! You can drop to one knee and open the ring box, have a server at your favorite restaurant put the ring in the bottom of a cocktail glass or bury it in the dessert, but in every case you must have the engagement ring.

Then, choose the location. Pick the right spot to propose. You don't want to pop the question kneeling in the driveway or in the cereal aisle at a grocery store, unless that's "your thing." If you're thinking about proposing in Times Square or Napa Valley, you'll have quite a bit of planning to do. In the end it might be much easier and every bit as memorable if you propose right here in the greater Kansas City area. Loose Park, the J.C. Nichols Memorial Fountain, Powell Gardens, or even Kauffman Stadium are all amazing Kansas City area landmarks. Alternatively, you could also go back to that first place you met and pop the question there.

It's true that a destination location may seem like a real showstopper, but by planning a proposal close to home, you have an opportunity to do it over a weekend and to keep the element of surprise. In a survey of recently engaged brides-to-be, the vast majority of them agreed they didn't want to be a part of the proposal planning process. By staying close to home, you can get help from friends and family in the area if you want to propose in the middle of a flash mob or karaoke night. Plus, every time you drive past or visit the location, you'll be reminded of that special moment you proposed.

If you're not sure the ring will be adored, you may experience some amount of trepidation when it comes to picking out the "right" ring. Some couples prefer to shop for engagement rings together, but that can take away some element of the surprise. It might be better to ask for input from a friend if you can trust them not to spill the secret. It's true, there are so many types of engagement rings to consider, especially when you consider stones, metals, and price ranges. Ask for help if you need it. You might even consider asking for a jeweler's help, as they are often able to suggest styles based on pictures and your descriptions of her dress style, lifestyle, and other personal information like her Pinterest.

Finally, the proposal. No matter where you are, or who you are, you may improve your chances by taking a knee, a gazing eye contact, and saying what your heart tells you must be said at that moment. There's no standard script, which is both a good and bad thing. Say how you feel, say how special the relationship is and end with the words "Will you marry me?"

The moment you get engaged will be remembered forever and told to your friends and family time and again. Just be sure you plan it out so that you'll feel secure and confident at the crucial moment.

TIVOL takes pride in our selection of beautiful engagement rings in Kansas City. Visit TIVOL at the Country Club Plaza or in Overland Park at Hawthorne Plaza.