How to Stay Cool When You Know They’re About to Propose

Proposals might be meant to surprise, but let’s be honest, in 2026, most couples have talked about marriage long before someone gets down on one knee. Between open conversations, joint finances, and even ring-shopping together, it’s not uncommon to know a proposal is on the horizon.

Maybe you’ve caught a glimpse of a little jewelry box, noticed your partner acting extra sweet, or felt that something’s definitely up. Whatever the clue, knowing the big question is coming can be equal parts thrilling and nerve-wracking.

So how do you deal when you know a proposal is coming without ruining the moment? Here’s how to keep it exciting, special, and totally unforgettable.

Before you dive headfirst into the fiancé life, take a minute to appreciate where you are right now. This pre-engagement stage—when you’re sure forever is coming but not quite there yet—is such a sweet and fleeting time.

Go on spontaneous dates, spend a cozy weekend together, and talk about what marriage means to you. These are the moments you’ll look back on and cherish once you’ve crossed into engagement territory.

Once you’re engaged, your focus shifts toward planning, decision-making, and celebrating with others. For now, soak in the intimacy of knowing something exciting is about to change your life, but hasn’t yet.

You might be bursting with anticipation and tempted to share your “it’s happening soon” hunch with your besties, your mom, or anyone who’ll listen. But keeping things quiet is key.

The more people who know, the higher the chance it’ll slip back to your partner, and no one wants to feel like their big surprise got spoiled. Beyond that, when everyone’s expecting it, your own engagement announcement can lose a little of that joyful shock factor.

Try to keep this special secret between you and maybe one trusted confidant who won’t let it leak. You’ll thank yourself later when you get to share genuine surprise with your loved ones.

Knowing a proposal is coming doesn’t mean you know when or how—and that’s a good thing! Resist the urge to overanalyze every dinner reservation, sunset walk, or romantic getaway.

You don’t want to spend weeks thinking, Is this it? only to be disappointed when it’s not. The best proposals are the ones that still manage to surprise you in the moment, even if you saw it coming in theory.

Maybe you’ve seen the ring, maybe you haven’t, but you don’t know what your partner will say, how you’ll feel, or what the moment will look like. Let yourself experience the emotions as they come.

It’s perfectly normal to start daydreaming about your wedding once you know a proposal is near. But resist the urge to start booking venues or finalizing guest lists before it’s official. Not only can it make your partner feel pressured, but it also takes away from the excitement of celebrating your engagement once it finally happens. There will be plenty of time for planning, we promise.

Use this waiting period to get inspired instead: explore styles, save your favorite dresses, or take the Loverly Style Quiz to discover your wedding aesthetic. Keep it light and fun, not logistical.

When the proposal day arrives, let yourself be in it. Don’t worry about getting the perfect photo or saying the perfect thing. Just breathe, feel all the emotions, and soak in what’s happening.

Afterward, take a little time for just the two of you before calling your family or posting online. Whether you celebrate with champagne, takeout, or a slow dance in your living room, it’ll be one of those memories that feels suspended in time.

If you know a proposal is coming, consider yourself lucky—you’re in one of the most exciting, love-filled chapters of your relationship.

The secret? Don’t rush it. Don’t overthink it. Just enjoy the anticipation, stay present, and trust that when the moment comes, it’ll be even better than you imagined.

Because no matter how much you “know,” nothing compares to hearing those four little words: Will you marry me?