TIPS FOR POPPING THE QUESTION

Have you and your significant other been kicking around "the idea"?   Have you been together forever?  Are people starting to talk?  Does mom want grandchildren? 

So you've decided to get engaged.  Congratulations!  Here are some tips to help it go according to plan.

• Guys, ask her father if you can have his daughter's hand in marriage. Yes, it's corny and old fashioned... But it's also romantic and respectable.

• Don't pick up the ring from the jeweler too far in advance of when you plan to take the plunge.  Once you have that thing in your possession, it'll be burning a hole in your pocket.

• Pick a memorable place to do it.  Is there somewhere that has special meaning to the two of you?  Perhaps a place you know she loves.  Or, maybe someplace she's never been, but has always has wanted to go?

• Think about how you are going to ask her.  Do you plan on getting down on one knee?  Maybe you could have the waiter at you favorite restaurant bring the ring to the table.  Just try to have some idea beforehand.   Remember: pre-planning makes perfect production.

• Rehearse what you want to say.  You're probably going to be very nervous when the time comes, so it helps to have some idea of what you plan on saying at this very important moment in your lives.

• Take a deep breath and go for it!  Good luck!!