If you’re getting ready to pop the big question, consider these pointers from about.com writers:

Do:

• Test the waters and talk about the possibility of getting married; make sure you agree on major issues like children.

• Make it a surprise.

• Be prepared, it’s a big deal to say “Will you marry me?” So practice!

• Find the right engagement ring by asking her, her friends and her mom what type of jewelry she prefers.

• Talk to her parents, because it’s nice and respectful to ask for their blessing.

• Choose a spot with personal meaning.

• Drop to one knee. No, it’s not 1950, but there is something charming and romantic about a man on one knee asking the love of his life to marry him. So do it.

• Tell her why you want to marry her. Women love this kind of thing.

• Share the news; bring a cell phone to call family and friends.

Don’t:

• Make it public in front of thousands of people, like at a ballgame. Most brides prefer to have the magical moment happen between just the two of you.

• Hide the engagement ring in food. It’s a tired idea and you won’t win any points for creativity.

• Do it in front of her family. It’s an added level of stress that you don’t need.

• Make it too complicated. Focus on the reason you want to get married, not making it a theatrical production. If you’re worrying about the limo getting to the balloon ride on time, you’re worrying about the wrong thing.

• Propose too early in the relationship. It’s hard to not do impetuous things in the flush of first love.

• Expect her to say yes immediately. Some brides need to take some time to contemplate spending the rest of their life with another person. Just because you’ve asked, remember, doesn’t mean she is ready to say yes or that she has to answer you right away.