How to Craft the Perfect Proposal Speech

Are you getting ready to pop the question to the person you love? Congratulations, this is a moment you'll remember forever. But before you get down on one knee and ask your partner "Will you marry me?", there are a few things to know ahead of this all-important speech. According to licensed marriage and family therapist Beverley Andre, "A marriage proposal is a deeply intimate moment for a couple that should encompass the depth and breadth of the love an individual has for their partner; consider it a soft launch for personal marriage vows. When proposing, convey how much your partner means to you."

She continues: "Try to use words highlighting how being with them makes you feel and how their presence and love have changed your life. Practice a bit of mindfulness and slow down. Take the opportunity to soak in the importance and beauty of the moment, especially if the proposal requires a bit of effort and planning. Emphasize how the proposal symbolizes your unwavering commitment to do life with them. Share your excitement for building a future together and how you look forward to reaching various milestones." Simply put, be clear and concise about your feelings and desire to be with your love forever.

Need a few more pointers? Continue on for our simple guide on what to say when proposing to your partner, including a sample script to inspire your own.

How to Write the Ultimate Proposal Speech

Here, speechwriter Holly Blum shares her top five tips to know when putting together the perfect proposal speech.

Reflect Back on Past Memories

“Before you write anything down, really think about what you want to say,” Blum says. Take a trip down memory lane, reflecting on your relationship and your love story. “Remember how you met and fell in love, and relive your happiest memories. Pinpoint the things that really make your relationship work,” she adds. “Ask yourself what you love and respect most about your partner, and how your lives together have evolved.” Then, use these memories and characteristics to jump-start the writing process.

Start Your Proposal With a Story

Your nerves may get the best of you but don’t cut to the chase. “My favorite way to set up a proposal is to start with a story or anecdote that captures the essence of your relationship,” Blum says. “It could be the moment you realized you were in love or a funny story that always makes you both laugh. Pick something that communicates what makes your relationship unique. Whatever you choose, make it count.”

Write It Down—and Practice

Just like a toast at a wedding, put all your words down on paper to remember what to say when proposing. “Many people think they will know what they want to say in the moment, but winging it can go awry,” Blum shares. Instead, take the time to put it all in order and on paper, and then read it out loud until it starts to sound less rehearsed and more conversational. “This is a big moment in your life, and you don’t want to flub your words,” she adds. “Take time to practice in front of a mirror and make sure you sound heartfelt yet polished.”

Don't Be Afraid to Get Emotional

“No matter how much you practice in advance, it’s hard to prepare for the emotions of the day,” Blum says. Therefore, don't be afraid to write down how you truly feel, even if it means you may cry a few times while popping the question. “If you’re overcome with emotions, just roll with it. You can’t go wrong with speaking from the heart, and showing your vulnerability will make the moment even more beautiful," she adds.

Honor Tradition

There are a few proposal traditions that are worth considering. “Has your partner ever mentioned wanting you to ask for [their] hand in marriage? If so, make sure you do it,” Blum says. “And when the time comes, get down on one knee, with the ring box in your hand, and actually say ‘Will you marry me?’ followed by your [partner's] name.”

Sample Marriage Proposal Script to Inspire Your Own

Here's a sample script to use if you're having a bit of writer's block with your own proposal speech.

[Partner's name] I have loved you since the day I laid eyes on you—and from the moment [insert memory here] I knew you were the one I would marry. I love you and, most importantly, respect you immensely. Your [insert a few characteristics about your partner here] are remarkable. You make my days happier and my nights brighter, and the joy you fill me with is truly unexplainable. I can't wait to start a future together, till death do us part. [Partner's name], will you marry me?