1. With a flash mob

This was pretty cool a couple of years ago, a guaranteed viral video hit on YouTube, but it’s kind of outdated at this point. Don’t try it with Bruno Mars’ “Marry You” either, your partner may run scared. While big points are given to those of you who put in such tremendous effort, just don’t do this — it’s way too cliche.

2. In public

This includes anywhere where there are a lot of people and crowded areas. Also, on stage during a performance, at a mall, or at a restaurant. You’re just showing off, please stop.

3. On the big screen at a sporting event

Considered just as bad as the kiss cam, and the birthday shout-out, I’m unsure as to why those two things still exist. You run the risk of being monumentally embarrassed amongst thousands of screaming fans if she happens to say no. Lest us not forget Pheobe from Friends comment about a couples’ proposal on the big screen as being lame just as Mike was about to propose to her in that exact way at a Knicks game. Even pop culture deems this as a flimsy proposal.

4. Skywriting

Mildly embarrassing in general, especially if your significant other sees it as it starts to fade. Also realize that this option will run you a couple of thousand dollars that may be better spent on your actual wedding.

5. On Valentine’s Day

Ah, the most corny of all. Need I say more? Granted, you’ll never forget what day you proposed. In 2013, the American Express Spending and Saving Tracker consumer report surveyed Americans’ Valentine’s Day plans and found that six million couples are likely to get engaged on February 14. This number has remained steady since. Don’t you want to be different than six million other couples?

6. Or any other holiday

If you propose on Christmas or Hanukkah or any other major holiday of importance and the two of you happen to not work out, the holiday, for you, will be forever tainted. Who doesn’t look forward to the holidays? Why take a chance?

7. Your birthday (or her birthday)

The same reason for not proposing on a holiday applies here. Your birthday (or your partner’s birthday) is special enough. Think sometime down the road to when you two are already married. You have to remember her birthday and the day you proposed, and it’s a double whammy if you forget both. There’s a good chance you may never hear the end of it. Don’t risk it.

8. With a professional photographer in tow

Although this is a “professional” way to capture the moment, it’s probably one that should remain private. The only reason, I can think, that someone would do this is so they could post their pictures to Facebook and Instagram. Enough with the overshare. Your proposal should be just for the two of you, something special you share and not for the world to see.

9. Proposing while drunk

Please don’t ever do this. Mainly, because most likely you won’t remember doing it.

10. Hiding the ring in food or a drink

Perhaps you never saw that Two and a Half Men episode when Charlie plans to propose by placing the diamond engagement ring in a glass of champagne, in which his girlfriend swallows it before he gets the chance to go through with the proposal. Need I say more?

11. On social media

I’m not 100% how many people do this, but unfortunately, I am sure it is a thing. To me, this sounds worse than texting a proposal — which, by the way, you shouldn’t do either.

12. Without a ring

Tradition calls for a ring. It may be old-fashioned, but a diamond is forever and so is the hope for your marriage.

Credit: cheatsheet