Ready to pop the question?


First off. Congratulations!!! Since you're doing research, I can already tell you and your partner are so sweet.


So you've probably been googling "how to propose" or searching the web for proposal ideas. Am I right?


You're not supposed to have all the answers. That's why I'm here! If I have questions about my fantasy football team (and why Drake May is tanking me this season) I'll return the favor. Until then, keep reading!


From a professional in the wedding industry and a woman who was once engaged (now married), this can serve as the ultimate guide to a romantic, thoughtful proposal (with tips you might otherwise overlook).


While this guide may have some western Pennsylvania (Butler, New Castle, Pittsburgh)  recommendations - the information is definitely applicable wherever you actually live. Proposing isn't scary! If you do it right, it'll be a moment the two of you cherish for a very long time.

Couple in wedding attire smiling outdoors, bride in white gown with veil, groom in black suit, with overlay text about relationship advice.

Do not pass go, do not collect $200 -

you need to get the verbal commitment before you start planning.


Did you already make sure they're on board?

Then go ahead and skip to step two.


The last thing you, your partner or your photographer want is a "uh-oh" cringe moment due to poor communication.


According to The Knot, 51% of couples talk about their proposal preferences before hand. 53% of couples also  wanted to keep their proposal more intimate and private. It's ultimately up to you, but if you want to guarantee a yes - start a conversation and keep that in mind when you prep. 

Couple smiling at each other inside a black truck, woman in white dress, man in plaid shirt, trees in background.

You've already started the next step!

Let's dive deep into research.


You know your partner, but when the pressure builds, you might forget some key plays. I'm here to help jog your memory and give you some tools and recommendations to get this job done right.

Diamond engagement ring with oval stone resting on lush green cedar branches outdoors.

Picking out the ring.

Your partner is going to wear this ring, ideally, forever. They need to love wearing it as much as they love you.


While 57% of proposers start ring shopping more than six months before the proposal, 79% make choosing the ring a joint effort. In fact, The Knot reported only 21% of rings are selected without any input from the recipient.


Some key considerations include:

Are they a fan of gold or silver?

Do they prefer a lab-grown stone?

Do they want a certain cut or shape?

What size do they need?

This link will help you visualize options!


According to The Knot, couples spent - on average - $4,600 on an engagement ring. So if I were you, I'd probably clue her in. 

 

Engagement ring shopping in western Pennsylvania.


When you shop small, these independent businesses become invested in you, too.


  • D&V Jewelers in New Castle for custom rings & affordable adjustments. Really great guy in Union Township, knows his stuff. Makes custom rings and can even create 3D-printed mock ups. He did work on my wedding ring!


  • Germani's Jewelry is another family shop in New Castle, PA. They do custom jewelry and redesigns, and they're also a Catholic gift shop!  Sizing and any repairs can be done right in store!


  • Blochers Jewelry in Ellwood City has an healthy online selection, and an interactive "build your own engagement ring" tool.


Other shops include Mathew Jewelers in Cranberry and Zelienople and Bruno Fine Jewelers in Mercer. You could also go to JCPenney or Zales, but you won't get the same care or craft that you'll receive at a local shop.

 

Happy couple showing off engagement ring, smiling man with red beard and woman embracing outdoors.

When to bend the knee:


This is where you need to dig your heels in and think: is my partner outgoing, the-world-is-my-stage? or are they more reserved and lowkey?


Do you have a special spot tied to a memory?

Are you wanting to propose close to have or on vacation?

Are they going to get suspicous if you tell them to put something nice on?

Do you want to keep it casual or lean into romance?



The most popular time of the year to propose is between Thanksgiving to Valentine's Day. The holidays are just so magical, yanno?


Do NOT propose on their birthday, graduation or other life event. That's corny.  If you're feeling stuck, ask their friends, siblings or shoot me an email and we can run through it.

Places to propose near Pittsburgh:



If you hire a professional photographer, they will help you. Another pro-tip: if your girlfriend has a couples session planned, that's the perfect time!! But let the photographer know.


Ask your photographer about how we can keep this a secret!

Final Notes


  • Look for their Pinterest
  • Don't be afraid to ask for help
  • Make sure you ask her parents if you're old school
  • Will they want friends and family there?
  • Do you think you can outsmart your girlfriend on your own? 
  • Be confident and make sure your back is straight.
  • You get $200 off your 2028 wedding if you book me for your proposal. 
  • Stats are from The Knot Real Weddings 2026 Study.
Couple kissing under floral arch with sunflowers at outdoor wedding ceremony in green field.
Get in Touch!