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Getting help from the pros

By Liz Esquirol | Special to amNewYork

June 20, 2006

Here's some proposal advice from the experts.

Do:
-Make it sentimental. Propose at your first date spot or where you met.
-Bring the ring (or a stand-in if you're going to let her pick it out).

-Get down on one knee.
-Respect family traditions -- ask for permission, if appropriate.

Don't:
-Hide the ring in food -- it's messy and dangerous.
-Forget to ask the question "Will you marry me?"
-Make the proposal too complicated or get too caught up in the details.
-Ask in a public place if she's the shy type.

These Web sites can help you get the ball rolling.
-An Exclusive Engagement works directly with clients to create the perfect proposal from start to finish. www.an- exclusiveengagement.com

-Will You Marry Me? Proposal Planners has a national network of proposal coordinators. This Web site and subscription-based service can provide you with ideas and proposal planning. www.2propose.com

-The Groom Guide.com calls itself the Essential Guide for the Modern Groom. It is full of important information for the groom-to-be, including a link on proposal ideas. www.thegroomguide.com