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50+ Unforgettable Marriage Proposal Speech for Your Partner

Dylan Banks offers sharp insights on relationships, love, and human connection. A leading expert, he's passionate about helping others build meaningful connections.

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A marriage proposal is a momentous occasion that marks the beginning of a new chapter in a couple’s life. It’s a declaration of love, commitment, and the desire to spend a lifetime together. 

Crafting an unforgettable marriage proposal speech can elevate this significant moment into an everlasting memory for both you and your partner. 

Hence, we are here to help you through the nuances of creating a speech that not only captures your heart’s true sentiment but also resonates deeply with your partner, ensuring this moment is cherished forever.

So, let’s explore the art of creating and delivering a memorable proposal speech, from understanding its importance to providing practical tips and examples to inspire your own.

What makes a marriage proposal speech unforgettable?

An unforgettable marriage proposal speech strikes a delicate balance between personalization, emotion, and sincerity. It reflects the couple’s unique journey and highlights their love, shared experiences, dreams, and aspirations. 

Research indicates that sharing extraordinary experiences promotes feelings of closeness, especially between unacquainted individuals. These remarkable encounters capture attention and contribute to the development of interpersonal relationships .

It’s not just about the words you choose; it’s about conveying the depth of your feelings and the earnestness of your commitment. 

An unforgettable speech is one that is remembered not just for the words said but for the emotions it evokes and the personal touch that makes it exclusively yours.

Importance of crafting a memorable proposal speech

The importance of crafting a memorable proposal speech cannot be overstated. It’s a gesture that communicates your love and dedication in a way that is meaningful and tailored to your relationship. A well-thought-out speech can deepen your bond, creating a profound moment of connection and understanding. 

It sets the tone for your engagement and forthcoming marriage, showcasing your commitment to making every moment count. Moreover, a memorable proposal speech becomes a cherished story, one that you and your loved ones will revisit and relish for years to come.

5 elements of a memorable marriage proposal speech

Creating a memorable and romantic marriage proposal speech is an art form that requires thought, emotion, and a deep understanding of the bond you share with your partner. A truly unforgettable speech resonates with sincerity and captures the essence of your relationship.

A study explored understanding dynamics in couples. Key themes included understanding one’s partner, self-awareness, and realistic couple interactions. Self-awareness enhances communication, and religious beliefs positively impact understanding. Overall, mutual understanding is vital for healthy relationships.

Below are 5 essential elements, expanded to assist you in crafting a speech that not only asks a life-changing question but also celebrates your unique love story.

1. Personalization

A personalized speech is the cornerstone of a memorable proposal. This means weaving in details that are unique to your relationship. 

Think about how you met, the milestones you’ve shared, and those little moments that only the two of you understand. Personalization makes your speech not just a question but a tribute to your shared history.

Your proposal speech should be an emotional reflection of your feelings. This doesn’t mean you need to deliver an Oscar-worthy performance, but rather that you should allow your genuine emotions to guide your words. 

Vulnerability is powerful; letting your guard down and sharing your true feelings can transform a simple speech into an unforgettable emotional experience.

Studies show that when individuals accept and support each other’s vulnerabilities from the start, through understanding and acknowledgment, it helps mitigate the internal threats triggered by emotional baggage or negative past experiences brought into the relationship.

While expressing your emotions and sharing personal stories is important, clarity ensures your message is understood. Your partner should be left with no doubt about your intentions and feelings. 

Keep your language simple and your message focused. A clear proposal sets a strong foundation for your future together.

A memorable speech does not have to be lengthy. In fact, brevity can lend your words more power. 

Aim to convey your most important thoughts and feelings concisely. This isn’t about limiting your expression but distilling it to its essence. Every word should have a purpose and contribute to the overall impact of your proposal.

5. Sincerity

The most crucial element of your proposal speech is sincerity. This is what makes your words resonate and feel genuine. Avoid clichés or phrases that don’t feel true to you. 

Instead, speak honestly about your feelings, hopes, and dreams for the future. Your speech should reflect who you are and the depth of your commitment.

53 examples of unforgettable marriage proposal speeches

If you want your short marriage proposal speech to be memorable for your partner, ensure it encapsulates love, commitment, and the unique journey of every couple. 

Whether you’re seeking inspiration to express your deepest feelings or to create a moment that will be cherished forever, here are 53 best marriage proposal speech examples to spark your creativity and touch the heart of your beloved.

• “From our first date to this beautiful moment, every second spent with you has been unforgettable. You’ve become my best friend, my confidant, and the love of my life. Today, I want to make a promise, not just of a future together but of always striving to make our journey filled with laughter, love, and happiness. Will you marry me?”
• “Standing here with you, I realize how much you’ve changed my world. You’ve filled it with love, color, and a happiness I never knew existed. I promise to be there for you, to support and cherish you, through all the adventures life throws our way. Let’s make this beautiful journey last forever. Will you marry me?”
• “With you, I’ve found a love that feels like home. You’ve been my dream, my anchor, and my unwavering support. Together, we’ve shared dreams, faced challenges, and built a life I am so proud of. I dream of growing old with you, of sharing every sunrise and sunset, of making every moment count. Will you share this dream with me and marry me?”
• “Looking back at the day we first met, I never could have imagined how profoundly you’d change my life. With every day that passes, I find myself loving you more in ways I didn’t even know were possible. You’ve helped me grow, supported me through challenges, and celebrated every victory. I want to spend my life doing the same for you, growing together in love and happiness. Will you marry me?”
• “In you, I’ve found more than just love; I’ve found a true partner in every sense of the word. We’ve weathered storms and basked in countless sunsets, always together, always as one. I want to continue building this beautiful life with you, side by side, as partners, lovers, and best friends. Will you make me the happiest person in the world and say yes?”
• “Every moment with you is a treasure, a memory I hold close to my heart. I look forward to a future where every day is an opportunity to love you more, to learn with you, and to create a life filled with endless love and laughter. My commitment to you is unwavering through all of life’s ups and downs. Will you join me on this journey and be my forever love?”
• “Life with you is an adventure I never want to end. From the mundane to the extraordinary, every moment spent with you is one I cherish deeply. I promise to cherish every laugh, every tear, and everything in between. My love for you is as endless as the stars. Will you be mine forever?”
• “I dream of a lifetime filled with happiness with you. To wake up every morning and fall asleep every night, knowing that we have each other, is the greatest gift I can imagine. You are my joy, my peace, and my inspiration. Let’s pledge to make every day better than the last together. Will you marry me?”
• “You’ve been my rock, my safe haven, and my greatest supporter. You’ve shown me what it means to love unconditionally and to always have someone’s back. I promise to be that person for you, too—to support you, to uplift you, and to be by your side, no matter what. Together, we can face anything. Will you be my partner in life?”
• “In you, I see my present, my future, and everything in between. You’ve made me believe in soulmates, in the kind of love that comes once in a lifetime and changes everything. I promise to keep our love alive, to nurture it, and to always keep us moving forward, hand in hand. Will you spend your life with me as my spouse, my partner, and my best friend?”
• “Together, we’ve woven jumbles of memories, each thread colored with love, laughter, and the occasional challenge we’ve overcome side by side. I want to continue weaving this masterpiece with you, adding countless more memories, joys, and dreams realized. Will you be my partner in this beautiful life’s journey and say yes to creating more unforgettable memories together?”
• “Our love has been the foundation of my happiness, a constant source of strength and joy. With you, I’ve found my true north, my guiding light through all of life’s moments. I promise to be that light for you, too, to hold you, support you, and love you unconditionally through all our days. Will you marry me and be the cornerstone of our shared future?”
• “Every day with you is a journey of discovery, revealing depths of love and companionship I never knew existed. I want to spend a lifetime discovering the world with you, learning new things about each other, and growing together in love. Will you embark on this endless journey of discovery with me?”
• “Life with you is an adventure I never want to end. Your love has given me a freedom I never imagined, a boundless space to grow, dream, and be truly myself. I promise to give you the same freedom, love, and adventure for the rest of our days. Will you marry me and share this boundless journey?”
• “Our love is like a symphony, with each note representing a moment, a memory, a dream shared. I want to continue composing this beautiful music with you, with every day bringing a new note, a new harmony. Will you be my forever duet, creating a lifetime of beautiful symphonies?”
• “In the varieties of my life, you are the most vibrant thread, weaving through every moment with love, grace, and beauty. I promise to be there for you, to weave our dreams, hopes, and futures together into a life that’s beautiful and uniquely ours. Will you accept this ring as a symbol of my eternal love and commitment?”
• “You are the light of my life, illuminating my darkest days and guiding me with your love and wisdom. I cannot imagine a future without you by my side, sharing every joy, triumph, and challenge. Will you marry me and continue to be the guiding light on our shared path?”
• “With you, I’ve found a shared soul, a partner who understands me without a word, who loves me unconditionally, and who dreams with me of our future together. I promise to honor, cherish, and dream with you, always. Will you share your life with me as my soulmate, my partner, my everything?”
• “I promise to make our life together a lifetime of love, to cherish each moment, to weather every storm, and to celebrate every victory by your side. You are my heart, my soul, my forever. Will you marry me and let our love story continue for a lifetime and beyond?”
• “Our bond is unbreakable, forged through love, trust, and an unwavering commitment to each other. I want to strengthen that bond with every day, to build a future that’s bright with love and shared dreams. Will you be my partner in life, in love, and in all that we can dream together?”
• “Together, we’ve created a harmony that resonates with love, understanding and shared dreams. I want to continue creating beautiful melodies with you, each note a testament to our love and each day a step closer to our dreams. Will you join me in this lifelong symphony as my love, my partner, my everything?”
• “Our love is like a canvas, painted with the most vibrant colors of joy, laughter, and shared moments. With every stroke, we’ve created something truly beautiful. I want to spend my life painting this canvas with you, adding endless colors and memories. Will you be my partner in creating this masterpiece of love?”
• “Life with you has been an unfolding journey filled with surprises, love, and unparalleled happiness. I want to keep traveling this path with you, discovering new horizons, and cherishing every step we take together. Will you walk this journey with me, hand in hand, as my love and my partner forever?”
• “You have been my beacon of love, guiding me through life’s ups and downs with your unwavering support and unconditional love. I promise to be your beacon, lighting our way with love, hope, and joy. Will you marry me and share this luminous journey?”
• “With you, I’ve shared dreams that I never thought possible. You’ve turned them into realities, making our life together a dream come true. I want to keep dreaming with you, making every dream a reality, side by side. Will you continue this beautiful dream with me as my partner, my love?”
• “Our love has weathered every season, growing stronger and more beautiful with each passing day. I want to spend endless seasons with you, experiencing the warmth of summer, the renewal of spring, the reflection of fall, and the coziness of winter, always together. Will you be my forever through all seasons of life?”
• “Every moment with you is a star in the constellation of our love, creating a pattern of memories that guide us through life. I want to keep adding stars to our constellation, illuminating our path with love and shared dreams. Will you be the starlight in my life, guiding me forever?”
• “Our love is as deep and vast as the ocean, filled with mystery, beauty, and endless waves of joy. I want to dive into this ocean with you, exploring every depth and riding every wave together. Will you be my partner in this ocean of love, now and always?”
• “Our hearts beat in rhythm, a beautiful melody of love and companionship. I want our hearts to keep beating together, creating a symphony of love that lasts a lifetime. Will you marry me and let our hearts beat as one for eternity?”
• “Joining my life with yours has been the most beautiful journey of the heart. With every step, our love has deepened, our bond has strengthened, and our dreams have intertwined. I want to continue this journey with you, heart to heart, soul to soul. Will you say yes to a lifetime of journeys together?”
• “With you, every day is an exploration, a chance to discover more about the world and ourselves. I’m excited for a lifetime of adventures, big and small, always with you by my side. Will you be my partner in every exploration, my co-adventurer in life’s journey?”
• “Our love has been a journey of growth, learning, and understanding. Together, we’ve grown stronger, kinder, and more connected. I promise to continue growing with you, nurturing our love with each passing day. Will you grow with me, hand in hand, as we build our future together?”
• “You have been my support through life’s twists and turns, my constant in a sea of change. I promise to be your pillar of strength, your haven of peace, and your partner in every adventure life brings our way. Will you marry me and let us support each other forever?”
• “Life with you has been the greatest adventure, filled with laughter, love, and unforgettable moments. I want to continue this adventure, facing every challenge and celebrating every victory together. Will you join me in this lifelong adventure as my partner, my love?”
• “Every step we’ve taken together has been filled with love, joy, and companionship. I look forward to a lifetime of steps together, each one taking us closer to our dreams. Will you take this next step with me and journey through life as my partner and my love?”
• “My love for you is eternal, unwavering through life’s ebb and flow. I promise to cherish you, to honor you, and to love you eternally. Will you share this eternal journey with me as my partner, my confidant, my everything?”
• “Together, we’ve embarked on a voyage of love, traveling through calm and stormy seas with trust and devotion. I want to set sail on a lifetime voyage with you, discovering new horizons of love and happiness. Will you be my co-captain on this voyage, forever and always?”
• “Our love is a melody that resonates with joy, harmony, and passion. I want to keep composing this melody with you, adding notes of laughter, moments of bliss, and harmonies of love. Will you continue to create this beautiful melody with me as my partner in life?”
• “Your laughter is my favorite sound, a melody that brightens my darkest days. I promise to spend my life bringing laughter to your lips and joy to your heart. Will you share a lifetime of laughter and love with me?”
• “With you, I’ve found an unbreakable bond, a connection that transcends time and distance. I promise to strengthen this bond with love, respect, and fidelity today and always. Will you join me in forging this unbreakable bond as my partner, my love?”
• “In the rainbows of moments we’ve shared, each color is a memory, a laugh, a tear, and a triumph we’ve experienced together. I look forward to a lifetime of weaving these moments with you, embracing each joy, challenge, and dream as one. Will you join me in this journey, saying ‘yes’ to a future filled with endless moments together?”
• “Your love is a beacon that lights up my darkest days and guides me with its warmth and brilliance. With every beat of my heart, I promise to love you, to cherish our moments, and to walk the journey of life hand in hand. Will you accept my heart and my promise to walk beside you, in love, forever?”
• “Beside you, I’ve discovered dreams I never knew I had and found the courage to chase them. Together, we’ve built a foundation of love, trust, and mutual respect. I’m excited to continue building this life with you, turning dreams into reality. Will you marry me and build a future where every dream is ours to share?”
• “With you, every day is a discovery, an opportunity to learn, to love, and to grow. I’m in awe of how our journey has unfolded, revealing depths of love I never imagined. I promise to spend a lifetime discovering the world with you, cherishing every lesson and every joy. Will you be my partner in this endless journey of discovery?”
• “In the light of our love, I’ve found hope, strength, and an unwavering partner in you. As we stand on the threshold of our future, I promise to be your beacon of hope, lighting our way through life’s challenges and celebrating its joys. Will you marry me and share a life where hope shines eternal?”
• “Our hearts beat in a harmony that’s unique to us, a rhythm that guides us through life’s symphony. I dream of a future where our hearts continue to beat in unison, facing life’s music together with courage and love. Will you join me in creating a life where our hearts’ harmony never ceases?”
• “With you, I’ve experienced seasons of joy, each more beautiful and profound than the last. I long for a lifetime of seasons with you, each one a new chapter of happiness, love, and shared dreams. Will you join me, making every season one of joy and love?”
• “Our love has formed a constellation in the sky, a map that guides me through the night. Each star is a memory, a moment of love and laughter we’ve shared. I promise to spend a lifetime adding stars to our constellation, making our love story eternal. Will you be the star that guides my heart forever?”
• “Meeting you was not just a crossing of paths but a union of souls meant to journey together through life. I promise to be your companion, your ally, and your greatest supporter. Will you take my hand and join me in this soulful journey, creating a lifetime of memories?”
• “With you, dreams don’t just come true; they unfold in the most beautiful and unexpected ways. I promise to dream with you, to strive for those dreams, and to support you in every ambition. Will you dream with me, making each dream a step toward our shared future?”
• “Every sunset we’ve shared has been a reminder of the beauty and transience of life. With you, I’ve found not just a partner but a soulmate with whom every sunset is more beautiful. I want to spend a lifetime of sunsets with you, each one a promise of another day together. Will you share every sunset with me, saying ‘yes’ to a lifetime of love and companionship?”
• “Our love is like a symphony, each day a new movement that brings joy, challenges, and beauty into my life. With you as my partner, every note resonates with deeper meaning, and every melody sings of our love. I want to compose a lifetime of symphonies with you, with each day a note in our endless song of love. Will you be my partner in this symphony, creating a masterpiece of our lives together?”
• “Together, we’ve embarked on an odyssey, a journey that has taken us through the highs and lows of life, each step a testament to our love and commitment. With you, I’ve found my anchor, my joy, and my inspiration. I want our odyssey to continue forever, exploring the depths of love and the heights of happiness together. Will you join me on this lifelong voyage as my co-navigator, my love, and my everything?”

7 tips for delivering an unforgettable marriage proposal speech

Delivering an unforgettable and perfect marriage proposal speech is a momentous occasion that marks the beginning of a new chapter in your relationship. It’s not just about the words you say but how you convey them, creating a moment that encapsulates your love and commitment. 

Here are 7 tips to help you deliver a speech that will be remembered for years to come, each expanded to aid you through this pivotal moment.

1. Practice, but don’t memorize

Practicing your speech helps you refine your words and manage any nervousness. However, it’s essential to avoid memorizing it word for word. Over-rehearsing can make your delivery sound rehearsed and insincere. 

Instead, familiarize yourself with the key points you want to cover . This approach allows you to speak more naturally and adaptively, maintaining the genuine emotion and spontaneity that makes the moment truly special.

2. Stay present

During the proposal, it’s easy to get caught up in your own head, worrying about your performance or the next thing you’re going to say. Strive to stay present in the moment, focusing on the significance of the occasion and the person in front of you. 

Being present helps you connect more deeply with your partner, making the experience more meaningful for both of you. This connection is what transforms a good proposal into an unforgettable one.

3. Keep eye contact

Maintaining eye contact throughout your proposal is a powerful way to enable a deep, emotional connection. It signifies honesty, sincerity, and the depth of your feelings. 

Eye contact can convey more than words, adding a layer of intimacy and significance to your speech. It reassures your partner of your commitment and ensures they feel seen and cherished at this pivotal moment.

4. Control your pace

Nervousness can lead to speaking too quickly, which might make your message less clear. Take deep breaths before you begin, and consciously slow down your speech pace. 

It not only makes it easier for your partner to absorb and react to your words but also allows you to emphasize the most heartfelt parts of your speech. Pausing after significant points can also enhance the emotional impact of your words.

5. Use a note if necessary

If you’re worried about forgetting important points, using a small note or card is perfectly acceptable. This can help you stay on track without the stress of memorizing every word. 

However, use it sparingly as a prompt rather than reading directly from it. This ensures that your delivery remains engaging and personal, with the note acting as a safety net rather than a crutch.

6. Embrace the emotions

Emotions are at the heart of what makes a marriage proposal so unique. If you feel overwhelmed by emotion, let it show. Tears, laughter, and voice cracks add authenticity and depth to your speech. 

They show your partner the true extent of your feelings. Embracing your emotions rather than trying to suppress them can make your proposal more genuine and moving.

7. End with the question

After sharing your heart and setting the stage, don’t forget to actually ask the question, “Will you marry me?” This is the climax of your speech, the moment everything builds toward. Ensure you end your speech with the “Will you marry me” proposal lines. 

Make it clear and direct, allowing all your love and sincerity to culminate in this pivotal question. How you ask can be as memorable as the speech itself, so give it the emphasis it deserves.

Managing the momentous occasion of a marriage proposal can stir up a whirl of emotions and questions. Here’s some advice for commonly asked questions about crafting and delivering the perfect proposal speech.

How long should a marriage proposal speech be?

A marriage proposal speech should be concise yet heartfelt, ideally lasting between 1 to 2 minutes. Keeping it short ensures you convey your message effectively without overwhelming your partner or yourself.

Do I need to memorize my proposal speech?

Memorizing your proposal speech isn’t necessary. It’s more important to speak from the heart. Having key points in mind or a small note can help keep your speech on track without losing the personal touch.

What should I do if I get nervous during the proposal?

It’s normal to feel nervous. Take deep breaths and focus on the significance of the moment. Remember, your sincerity matters more than perfection. Your partner loves you for who you are, nerves and all.

Is it okay to use humor in my proposal speech?

Absolutely! If humor is a part of your relationship, incorporating it into your proposal speech can add a personal and light-hearted touch, making the moment uniquely yours.

What if I can’t think of anything romantic to say?

Focus on expressing your genuine feelings and intentions. Share why you love your partner, how they’ve impacted your life, and your hopes for the future. Authenticity is inherently romantic and meaningful.

Crafting and delivering an unforgettable and touching marriage proposal speech is an opportunity to express your deepest feelings and commitment. By focusing on personalization, emotion, clarity, brevity, and sincerity, you can create a speech that resonates with your partner and makes the moment truly special. 

Remember, the goal isn’t perfection but a genuine expression. With these tips and examples as your guide, you’re well on your way to creating a proposal speech that will be remembered and cherished for a lifetime.

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Dylan Banks is a prolific writer, known for his sharp and insightful commentary on relationships, love, and human connection. With his extensive experience and infectious passion for all things love-related, he has become a leading Read more expert in the field of relationship advice. Dylan is a true romantic at heart, with a deep passion for helping others find love and build meaningful connections. When he’s not writing about love and relationships, Dylan can be found exploring the great outdoors or indulging in his other passion: music. As an accomplished musician and songwriter, he believes that music has the power to connect people in profound ways. Read less

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What to Say When Proposing to Your Partner Before Popping the Big Question

• Diane writes and edits articles for The Knot Worldwide, with a specialty in weddings, party planning and couple lifestyle.
• She produces editorial content for The Knot, The Bash and WeddingWire Canada.
• Before joining The Knot Worldwide, she was the publisher of 2life Magazine and WeddingBells Magazine.

Sure, getting down on one knee while holding an engagement ring box sort of says it all. But the moment you get engaged should be an unforgettable one, and planning what to say when proposing can make all the difference. It's worth your time to have some eloquent words prepared for your proposal speech, especially if you're anticipating butterflies when the moment finally arrives. But how do you wrap up all of your feelings and vocalize them to the love of your life? We've outlined exactly what to say when you propose, along with ways that you can personalize your proposal script so that it's a sweet reflection of your relationship so far. Follow these tips to figure out how to express yourself leading up to the all-important question.

In this article:

How to Decide What to Say When You're Proposing

Here's your marriage proposal script.

It's obvious that you need to ask the question, "Will you marry me?" at some point, but your proposal speech should also include plenty of personalization and memories from your relationship so far. Here are a few examples of what to say in a proposal to make your partner swoon.

Speak from the heart.

First and foremost, let yourself be emotional and authentic when you deliver your proposal speech. Sure, you may be a bit nervous, but exposing that vulnerable side will make this a very special (and real) moment for both of you. It's important to run through a few sentences in your head, but you don't want to sound like you're delivering a rehearsed speech when you're asking the love of your life to marry you. Write down a rough draft—stick to bullet points or brief sentences—so you can easily remember what you want to say when proposing. You could open with something heartfelt and direct, such as "[insert name], I love you," or "[insert name], you are my soulmate. I love so many things about you."

Don't worry about memorizing your proposal speech word for word. If you speak from the heart and let your emotions guide you, it's sure to be perfect no matter what.

Reflect on the past.

When you're thinking about what to say when proposing, you can also reflect on the start of your relationship and all of the milestones that led you to this special moment. Answer these two questions and you're sure to find a few meaningful nuggets to really personalize your prose.

What did you think when you first met?

Reminisce about the first time you laid eyes on them or the first conversation you had. Talk about how you were awestruck by their eyes, or amazed to find someone who shared your passion for the same sports team, or how you just knew that someone seriously special had entered your life. Say something like, "When I first talked to you at [blank], I thought [blank]."

Of course, if your first meeting was less than romantic (you were hitting on their best friend while they spilled pinot noir on you, for example), you won't want to bring it up—unless the two of you already joke about it. But if you're still deciding what to say when you propose, reflecting on something about the early stages of your relationship is a sentimental way to bring things full circle.

When did you realize that you might want to spend the rest of your life with them?

Try to identify one specific moment when it hit you that you'd found the one . Was it when the four-star restaurant lost your reservation and they cheerfully suggested you head across the street for pizza and beer instead? The time they came over when you were sick in bed with the flu and watched a kung fu movie marathon with you? In your proposal speech, say something like: "The time you [blank], I knew we were meant to be." Touching on some of the little moments you've shared is a cute reminder of all the ways your relationship has evolved.

Describe how they make you feel.

Focus on how much better your life is now that they're in it. What do you have now that you didn't before you met? Have they helped you laugh off little things that used to stress you out? Taught you the value of having more in the fridge than take-out cartons? Show how much you appreciate and want your partner in your life by including those details in your proposal speech. Start by saying: "Before I met you, I was [blank]. Now I am [blank]" to show them just how wonderfully they've impacted your life.

Explain why you love them.

What is it about your significant other that inspires you and makes you want to be more like them? Their patience and kindness to others? Their sense of adventure? The value they place on making the world a better place? The reasons you love and admire your partner are thoughtful things to say when proposing, so be sure to highlight those details in your speech to make it known that you can't wait to get married. Say something like, "I love and respect your [blank], and it makes me want to try harder to be that way myself."

Talk about your shared values and future together.

Talk about the things that are important to both of you. Sharing the same values and goals will emphasize why you're a perfect match and why you should spend your futures side by side. It's these shared values that will help get you through the ups, downs and middle grounds of married life (not to mention planning a wedding , which takes a lot of teamwork).

Touch on some of the plans you've discussed about your future to drive home the point that you make a great pair. Say something like, "We both love [blank] and dream of [blank], so together we can [blank]." It's the perfect lead-in to the words they've been waiting to hear (drumroll, please): "And those are just a few of the reasons I'm hoping you'll spend the rest of your life with me. Will you marry me?"

Remember to actually ask the question, "Will you marry me?"

Don't put too much pressure on yourself trying to figure out what to say when proposing. If at any point you feel overwhelmed or forget a few of the things you'd planned to say, fear not. Pause to enjoy the moment, take a deep breath and say the four most important words of all: "Will you marry me?" After all, you don't want to try to say so much that you get lost in the moment and forget to officially ask your partner to marry you. If you're proposing with an engagement ring, be ready to place it on their left ring finger (cue the happy tears).

Now that we've outlined what to say when you propose, let's string everything together to give you an idea of how it all flows. Here's a proposal speech example to follow.

(P.S.: If you're thinking about capturing the moment on camera, hire a professional proposal photographer to make sure you don't miss a beat.)

"[insert name], I love you.

When I first met you, I thought [blank].

The time you [blank], I knew we were meant to be.

You make me feel [blank] and I'm so grateful for [blank].

I love and respect [blank] about you, and [blank] makes me so excited for our future.

Together we [blank] and I'm ready for [blank].

And those are just a few of the reasons I'm hoping you'll spend the rest of your life with me. Will you marry me?"

5 Marriage Proposal Speech Ideas to Help Pop the Question

Not quite sure how to pop the question? Check out these amazing engagement proposal speech ideas to help you find the best one that fits your story.

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When it comes to proposing marriage, the words you choose can really make or break the moment (for proof, watch the '90’s movie The Bachelor ). It certainly can be difficult to come up with marriage proposal speech examples and ideas in advance—and deliver them smoothly on the spot. Of course, most proposers stumble over their words a bit during the big moment—and that’s totally okay (and frankly, kind of adorable). And in the end, as long you end with “Will you marry me?” you’re probably in pretty good shape.

Need some inspiration? Check out these marriage proposal speech ideas to help get you started!

1. the “how i knew” marriage proposal speech.

Giving your proposal a personal touch can make it even more meaningful—it’s pretty much a must. The easiest way to make your marriage proposal speech personal is to recall the moment you knew that your beloved was not just another fling, but “the one.” Tell the story of that experience. Sure, it could be something emotional (her nursing you back to health after an illness) or something seemingly trivial (the time he drove in the pouring rain to help you change a flat tire). The point is that you’re sharing a story that encapsulates your relationship, and talking about how you felt at that time. You may even choose to take him or her back to the spot where it happened (the diner where you had your first date, the college campus where you first saw each other), though that’s not necessarily a must. Of course, finish the story off by asking the big question.

2. The “What I Love About You” Marriage Proposal Speech

If you’re ready to propose marriage , you can probably list an infinite number of things about your beloved that you adore. Turns out that’s actually a great way to pop the question! Write down a list of the qualities that you love about your partner—from the mundane (the way she brings you coffee every morning) to the super-meaningful (his compassion and love of his friends and family). Start off the proposal with, “I just wanted to tell you all of the reasons that I love you.” Then, recite the list and finish it off with: “And I know that this list will continue to grow for the rest of our lives. Will you marry me?”

3. The Experience-Based Marriage Proposal Speech

Many times planning a special experience is a great way to pop the question. Whether it’s taking a romantic trip or going on a special hike, it can be particularly memorable to propose during an activity . During a quiet moment, perhaps while viewing some beautiful scenery or after a particularly exciting experience (rock climbing or parasailing, for example), say something like: “I can’t wait to have moments like this for rest of our lives. Will you marry me?”

4. The Short and Sweet Marriage Proposal Speech

Your marriage proposal speech doesn’t have to be something lengthy—keeping your words short and sweet can be really meaningful as well. If you also think you’re going to be super-nervous during the big moment (and really, who isn’t?), keeping things brief might be your best bet. Really, here's the simplest proposal speech example: “(Partner’s name), make me the happiest guy/girl in the world. Will you marry me?” Pro Tip: Saying your partner’s full name (first, middle, and last) makes whatever you say even more romantic!

5. Get Creative

For some people, the idea of verbally making a marriage proposal speech can be absolutely terrifying. Proposing marriage should be an exciting, memorable, and joyful experience —so if the stress of making a speech will take the fun out of your proposal, skip it. Instead, put your thoughts in writing—or even on video. Make a scrapbook of memories and photos from your relationship, and write “Will You Marry Me?” on the last page. Write a meaningful letter expressing your feelings and end it by popping the question. Attach the ring to your pet’s collar and have him/her do the work for you. Or create a video featuring friends and family members and pop the question at the end. There are lots of ways to propose without making a speech—let your proposal reflect your personality and comfort level.

A Few Final Tips

No matter which proposal speech idea you go with, it’s important to spend some time preparing for your big moment. If you decide to wing it, your nerves may get the best of you. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth proposal speech:

• Plan it out: Try to start thinking about your speech a week or two before you plan to propose. It may seem excessive, but you’ll be glad you had the time to prep and practice.
• Write out notes or an outline: If you don’t feel that you’ve memorized your marriage proposal speech, you won’t regret having notes at the ready in case you stumble or forget the words.
• Practice makes perfect: It may feel a bit weird to practice your proposal speech to yourself in the mirror, but we promise, it will help!
• Keep it short: Your partner will be eager for you to actually pop the question, so your proposal speech should be fairly short and to-the-point. As you’re practicing, if you find you’re speaking for more than a minute or two, try to edit down your speech.
• Speak slowly and take pauses: When it comes time to give your proposal speech, don’t rush it. Your partner will likely be pretty confused about what’s going on and by speaking slowly, you’ll giving your love time to fully absorb this amazing moment.

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