I probably shouldn’t be writing this blog.
After all, most of my job is about trying to help guys conceal the fact they’re about to pop the question to the girl of their dreams. But over the years, I’ve learned a thing or two about how the boys behave – and now I’m going to share that insight with you girls, too.
Christmas is a very popular time of year to make a marriage proposal. It’s typically a romantic season, goodwill is abundant, and we feel good. So, if you’ve been wondering when he’s going to ask for your hand in marriage, here are my top ten signs to look out for:
He’s begun to let go of his past
If your boyfriend is finally tossing out that "private" box of mementos from former girlfriends, he is letting go of his past and is ready to focus on the future with you.
He’s sizing you up
Your favourite ring is missing, and your best friend has been asking the size of your finger. Chances are your boyfriend is doing some research before visiting the jeweller.
He’s cutting costs
Dates have gone from gourmet dining to drive-through dinners - if your boyfriend has suddenly turned into Ebenezer Scrooge, the chances are he’s saving up for the special day.
He’s gone for gold
If your man is suddenly flashing a shiny new gold credit card, he may have opened a new account with a higher limit to absorb the expensive ring purchase – and snag some frequent flyer miles in the process.
You’ve suddenly been pluralised
Conversations are no longer about just him. A sure sign that he’s about to move out of Singlesville is the fact the words ‘we’ and ‘our’ have found their way into conversations with increasing regularity.
He’s family oriented
Your boyfriend is enthusiastically organising a get-together with both of your families. An anxious interest in meeting the parents is a true sign he’s ready for the next step.
He’s become a Wedding Watcher
You attend a friend’s wedding and are shocked at your boyfriend’s commentary on the music, flowers and food. Even more surprising - he encourages you to catch the bouquet!
He’s letting go of his inner bachelor
The scooter has gone, the weekly poker games have been cancelled and he’s looking at interest rates. A mature lifestyle change could be the prelude to marriage.
He’s a man with a plan
Your socially laid-back guy suddenly insists on prior plans, and instead of waiting until Friday night to plan your weekend, he’s making arrangements on Tuesday or earlier ... he may have a certain social "engagement" that he doesn’t want you to miss.
He’s your dad’s new golf partner
If a close connection has developed between your dad and your boyfriend it’s more than likely that they’ve had (or are about to have) the talk. Good luck!!
And remember – if you spot any of these signs, get your friends to encourage him to get advice on the best ring to by. He’s more than welcome to come and talk to me in Hatton Garden and I can help him to understand what he needs to look for in an engagement ring.
Or, if he prefers, he can put my advice in his pocket by buying my book, The Engagement Ring, which is full of great advice to make sure he picks the perfect ring for you first time.