How Not To Propose

Proposal season is upon us -- and the holidays can be a perfect time to do it, what with the joy of the season, time around family, etc., etc.

But if you're planning on popping the question, you may want to take a couple pointers first.

From Yahoo!:

• A bad proposal can mean the end of a relationship, and it's not always obvious what's bound to backfire. Before you bite the bullet, educate yourself on how not to pop the question.

I was given one rule before I asked the adrenaline-loaded question: No sporting events. I took heed. Remember that your "really cool idea" may not be the way she wants to remember getting asked who she wants to spend the rest of life with.

Keep that in mind.

Now, here's a few original thoughts before you drop to a knee:

1. Message-carrying airplanes: Save that for the cheap-o beach stores. If nothing else, what kind of connotation will she take if the WWII-era bi-plane crashed?
2. Watchful eyes: Doing in front of friends and family can be neat. But I would suggest making damn sure there isn't someone in the bunch (an ex, maybe?) that isn't so happy about the idea. Could make for some potential problems.
3. Karaoke No-No: I've seen three proposals during karaoke. Nothing says "Hey, I just thought of this and will probably change my mind" more than you squeezing her in between "Don't Stop Believing" and "Sweet Child O' Mine."
4. Avoid the Booze: A couple glasses of wine at a romantic dinner is one thing. But if you've stretched your brain (and liver) too far, you might make some rash decisions. Think celebrity quickie wedding, only without the cash to buy your way out of it.

Feel free to add your own ideas below. Horror stories are always welcome.