In my tenure within the restaurant industry, I’ve had the privilege of observing numerous heartwarming wedding proposals unfold during my shifts. With Valentine’s Day on the horizon, and being happily single myself, I thought I’d take a moment to reflect on some of the most memorable and, dare I say, cringe-worthy proposals I’ve witnessed. As someone who cherishes romance, these moments always hold a special place in my heart. And if you’re seeking the perfect ambiance for your own romantic gesture, perhaps my guide to the michelin rated restaurants in the area might offer some inspiration. A well thought out proposal will create a memory that will last a lifetime. Go to www.royalvending.com.au/vending-machines-australia/ to find out about a vending machine service
If you are considering popping the question at dinner, here are some pointers to make the occasion memorable and successful.
Always Make A Reservation: There is nothing that can ruin a well-laid plan like not being able to get a table. Make the reservation and let them know that you are planning on proposing during the meal. They may even accommodate you with a more private table. Berating the host because you can’t get a table despite offering him a twenty doesn’t make for a romantic start to the evening.
Never Propose Some Place That Doesn’t Take Reservations: Let’s get real here. Maybe the sports bar or coffee shop you met in is a sentimental spot. This does not mean that it is romantic. Taking a knee in peanut shells or well below a bar stool might not quite set the tone you want for the evening. Pick out a nice place, make a reservation, put on a nice outfit, and make it a great memory.
Always Keep The Ring In Your Pocket: You’ll find yourself checking, rechecking, and triple-checking that it’s in your pocket throughout the evening. Understandably so—it’s likely one of the biggest purchases you’ve made up until this point. If you put it in your coat, you’ll catch yourself checking your coat pocket more times than you realize. It’s a dead giveaway.
Never Give Your Ring To the Staff: This advice has nothing to do with honesty and everything to do with liability. I buy sunglasses at the gas station because I don’t trust myself to keep track of a pair of sunglasses that cost more than $20. There is no way I want to be responsible for something that costs more than my net worth. Besides, putting it in the glass of champagne is played out, and putting the ring on her finger after digging it out of the chocolate cake is kind of gross. As a side note, please, for the love of Cupid, do not lick the chocolate off the ring if you opt for the latter.
Always Eat Something: You are likely going to be nervous, and that will dampen your appetite. Picking at your food is going to make her think something is funny about the evening. If you sense your appetite dwindling, try to order smaller meals and fewer courses to make it less obvious. You should also monitor your alcohol intake accordingly. Less food in your stomach will allow the booze to hit you quicker. You don’t want to get to one knee and have to guess which of the three of your girlfriends that you are seeing you should propose to.
Never Order Several Courses: Appetizer, salad, entrée, and dessert. These four courses are the maximum. To save yourself from a bit of the torture of waiting, you might want to skip the appetizer. This applies to both the topics immediately above and below this one.
Always Propose At Dessert: Without fail, I’ve learned that proposing during dessert is the way to go. I’ve only witnessed one rejection during dessert, compared to a 100% failure rate for proposals made before dessert. In my experience, 75% of unsuccessful attempts occurred before the main course. Interestingly, two of these rejections happened even before dessert was served. I vividly remember serving one couple who remained silent throughout their four-course meal, only breaking it to give me abrupt orders for random accompaniments. Despite their demeanor, I didn’t hold it against them; it seemed like they were having a rough night. Had they hinted at the proposal idea, I would have swiftly packaged the remainder of their meal to go, setting a new record for speed.
Never Make Plans For Immediately Afterwards: Let me tell you how this is going to play out. She is going to spend the next few minutes waving her hands near her face and staring at the ring. Then, women from other tables will probably migrate over to congratulate you and stare at the ring with her. Then there will be a trip to the bathroom followed by phone calls. There will be lots of phone calls and texts. Pictures will be taken of the ring. More women will come to stare at it. Roll with it, my friend. She has been dreaming of this moment her whole life.
You did well,” she said. “Yes,” and you can take a deep breath. Order a drink because this one is on me. Although it might be wise to have me reheat the steak I just boxed up for you. Your appetite has probably returned, and you might need it before your next drink. You have plenty of time. Trust me, you are going to be here for a while.
