How to include your kids in your proposal
A proposal is a chance to show your partner just how much they mean to you, and tell them that you want to spend the rest of your life with them. If you’re a blended family, or you have children together, then including them in your proposal can be an important step in your future together.
Before you pop the question to your partner, depending on the circumstances and the age of the children, you might want to consider letting them know your plans ahead of time. Especially if they have children from a previous relationship, and the children are old enough to understand what’s happening, asking for their permission is a way to show your partner that you care about their children and are considering their happiness too. Just make sure that they can keep the secret!
Once you’ve got the stamp of approval, you can get planning a fun proposal your partner will love. We look at three ideas to keep it romantic and include your kids.
Create a family treasure hunt
If you think an informal setting will be perfect for your proposal, then why not create a family treasure hunt? In order to stop your kids from finding the ultimate treasure, color code the clues so that everyone gets their own, or devise a turn-taking system that leaves your partner with the last clue.
This can easily be disguised as a game for the kids on a weekend, meaning that your partner won’t get suspicious, and will truly be surprised to find a diamond engagement ring as the final prize.
Get all dressed up
If you’re trying to involve young children, why not get them customized outfits to reveal when you pop the question? T-shirts with ‘will you marry [Daddy] or [your name]?’ can be a super cute way of revealing your intentions.
Alternatively, why not get the kids to make signs to hold? This can be a lovely way to get them to make something that is personal to them. Your partner is sure to appreciate this sentimental gesture, and they’ll have something to keep afterward.
Get Artistic
If your kids are more likely to cause a distraction than add to the romantic atmosphere, then why not get them to learn a dance that they can perform as a celebration afterward? If you’re proposing in the comfort of your own home, depending on their personalities, they’re unlikely to get stage fright.
If you have teenagers who are unlikely to want to dance or wear a custom t-shirt, they can still get involved. If they like performing arts, why not ask them if they’d sing, or read a poem?
Important things to remember
Whilst most people propose and have a good idea of what the answer will be, not everything goes to plan. If you’re at all in doubt, a proposal with less obvious pressure, such as the treasure hunt will be best. Keeping the children distracted with prizes whilst you pop the question may allow your partner to feel more comfortable giving their answer.
Photography: Molly Ann Photo