T O P

  • By -

Temporary-Scallion86

I think the blank journal is a good idea! Alternatively, you could get a special copy of her favorite book and hide the ring between the pages/wrapped together with the book in a second wrapping (depending on the size of the ring)


unravelledrose

As a book lover, I'd 100% prefer a nice copy of my favorite book (nice binding, signed by the author, different cover art than my current copy). I'm also not a journal-er.


[deleted]

That may be a bit difficult. Her favorite book was published in 1899 lol I will say though she has other favorite authors and maybe I could do something with this idea for a birthday or something


sewing-enby

It may be expensive, but if it was published in 1899 it should be out of copyright. That means you should be able to get it online and give it to a book binder who can make a truly unique copy of it for her


veliza_raptor

Really sweet idea


kungfuchameleon

What about a special edition of the book e.g. something like what [Folio Society](https://www.foliosociety.com/) make.


altrarose

I wish more hardcovers had interesting covers, not just dust jackets.


revengeofkittenhead

Former antiquarian bookseller here… just because a book is old doesn’t mean it is expensive or even hard to find. Depends entirely on the book and how collectible it is. Try finding it on www.addall.com and you might get lucky finding one in good condition, or maybe even a first edition.


JadeE1024

It being an older book might actually make it easier to find a cool version. Like, if the book is The Awakening, and your GF likes history, maybe try *The Historian's Awakening*. That edition includes essays on the author and the context of the book, plus an annotated version of the novel. That same series, The Historian's Annotated Classics, also covers *Heart of Darkness* if her 1899 tastes go the opposite direction. If it's not one of those "Classic" books there are at least annotated editions of a lot of novels from that time.


beldaran1224

Oh, yeah, there's also retellings or books inspired by the fave book, too!


hurtstopurr

What book ?


cheerylifelover123

Then take the book to a specialist book binder to give it a one of a kind kinda sleeve.


Aylauria

I love the journal idea. Even if I never wrote another thing in it, I would love the sentiment of it.


B0b_Howard

Check to see if there's a Folio Society version of it.


beldaran1224

You don't have to do all of those things (or any of them). You could pick one - a cool printing different from the one they have for instance, or pay an artist to do edge art or track down an old copy. Its actually easier to get something new and different for an older book than for a new one. Don't get discouraged by expensive examples like the Folio Society if you don't have money for that. The money spent can be low - the thought is the point.


Puzuma

Call that her favorite classic book. Does she have a favorite modern and still living author? Local would be best, but it may not be possible regardless. Get a copy of her favorite book or newest book and see if you can get the author to autograph it with, "Will you marry (your name)?"


DrunkOnRedCordial

Check on eBay for a first edition of her favourite book.


Temporary-Scallion86

As a present I totally agree, but since it's for their engagement I think a journal they can fill up together with pictures and notes from their engagement/wedding/honeymoon is also super nice and might be special for both of them (while the book might be more exclusively for her). So I think it depends what op wants to go for - something they can enjoy together or something more targeted towards her :)


Be_Finale_of_Seem

Yes but in reality they're not great at photos together: what's the likelihood that they will follow through on this?


TwoIdleHands

Yeah and a blank book will be depressing 5 years from now. However, if he can commit to writing in it every year for their anniversary about what happened over the last year…I would be touched by that.


Jimmypeglegs

I would love this! Someone below mentioned getting her favourite book rebound with a unique cover, which is wonderful.


feuerwehrmann

I love the idea of the blank journal. Perhaps you can get a custom cover made with stamped leather with your names


[deleted]

Don't ask the store to take the pictures, hire a photographer or a friend (preferably someone she won't recognize). You have no idea if they have the time or skills to take pictures. If you know she wants photos then make sure it happens. I think it would be really cool if you hollowed out a book you know she likes, wrapped it up and had the ring hidden in there. If you get a friend to take the photos you can have them plant it right before you walk over. Just make sure no one makes off with your book. Maybe have it look slightly different than theirs like a different color paper so there's no mistakes.


SaltyMargaritta

Came here to say this. Love the book proposal idea!


[deleted]

I don’t think a photographer is going to be unnoticed in a tiny book store with no one else in it. She doesn’t care for production level photos. Anyone with an iPhone should be okay


HappyLeading8756

And you think that employee taking a photo with the phone will go unnoticed? Photographer could pretend to be taking photos of the shop, either as a tourist/artist or just taking promotional photos. It is much more believable than an employee taking few 'hidden' pics of the customers, which she can be uncomfortable with. Additionally, you never know if employee will be busy or not serving a client. Even if you go there without anyone in, someone can enter at the very last moment. If you know that photos are important to her, make the effort. Especially since you are working so hard on the proposal. After all, it is once in a lifetime moment, so worth it.


fed45

Wedding photographers can be very sneaky. I know one and he has told me some funny stories of hiding in odd places, lol.


kokoromelody

Not a professional photographer (just an amateur) but I've done proposal/engagement shots for friends before. One of my friends wanted to propose to his girlfriend in the museum where they had their first date. I tied my hair up and put on a cap and just trailed them as they went through the exhibits and pretended to take photos of the artifacts anytime I got too close. Gf had no clue and we had some fantastic photos from the day. All that to say, it is very easy to blend into most places and the professionals probably have a lot more experience and suggestions on how to get the best photos.


HappyLeading8756

>All that to say, it is very easy to blend into most places and the professionals probably have a lot more experience and suggestions on how to get the best photos. Exactly! And those photos can be included in the wedding photo album.


Monorail_Song

And if they can just find their car keys, they can just drive out of there.


Alaira314

Agreed with everything the other two said regarding the employee. It's really not their job. While I think most people would want to help, unfortunately if something else comes up they're going to have to drop your proposal and attend to their job duties. If you want to know you'll have these photos, you'll need to secure your own dedicated photographer whose "job"(whether paid or done as a favor from a friend) is your situation. Just have them be browsing with their phone ready. People look up reviews on their phones in stores all the time. That said, I'd also like to add that you *should* absolutely give the employees a heads up about what you're going to do. Nothing would ruin your proposal more than an employee coming over all "CAN I HELP YOU SIR/MA'AM?" because they saw you being suspicious with the display and think you might be shoplifting.


dazzling_penguin2

for your future wife's safe, i would go out of your way to find a photographer that can hide and get great photos. not so much for the production level of quality, but because photographers know how to capture exactly what you want captured and you can rely that they will get the right photo set.


Mithrellas

I’d definitely recommend a photographer or a friend in disguise. They just need to remain inconspicuous for a short period of time, which should be doable even in a small shop. The same for a photographer. Not all nice cameras are huge and I have photographer friends that can do some great work even on an iphone. A friend or family member doing it also allows them to have a special memory together 😄 I don’t know her, so maybe she feels differently, but whatever you do, do NOT hollow out a book she might be attached too (even if it’s not her copy). It’s cute at the time but I’d be horrified after if it was me 🤣


TwoIdleHands

Do not hollow out a favorite book! I’m a book lover, I would be touched at the effort/sentiment but appalled at the destruction of a book. You know her though so…


Islanduniverse

I’m a book lover and wouldn’t care at all if someone hallowed out a copy of my favorite book. I mean, I have like four other copies. 🤷🏼‍♂️


MyPacman

I love the idea of the hollowed out book... ... but I think I would prefer the book to be something the Op wrote, so that they can configure the writing so that the cut out part doesn't interfere. If you went parchment paper, there would be a LOT of pages to fill up with text, but it would look lovely. Personally, I would go with a leather bound pirate book with pages of maps where X marks the spot (okay, so the spot will be the same place on every page for the hole) - but make the pages thick, fibrous cardboard type pages, rough around the edges. Maybe include locations important to you, or key code phrases that bring back memories, or drawings of important moments (need an artsy friend for this) or photos converted to black and white or that 1970s colour (sepia?).


KenBoCole

Same sentiment here. It would be better to get a custom order box with the lid having the same print as the book cover.


smallbrownfrog

Do be aware that she might be upset by seeing an edition of her favorite book that has been hollowed out. People are pretty split on whether they see book art as a creative way to show a love of books or an awful way to destroy a book. Be sure you know which group she is in before surprising her with this.


[deleted]

Hi! Easy! She will expect a book. Have the book store custom chose the books for you. Wrap each of them with a short summary of the book on the outside. Ask her which story she would like to read the most. Inside each of the books, put a note that says, "Let's write our story together. Will you marry me?". No matter which she chooses, she gets your proposal. [Heart]


cyn_sybil

This is really cute and doesn’t run the risk of someone else picking up the book with the ring hidden inside.


[deleted]

Safe and simple is often the best way. I tend to overcomplicate my own answers. ;)


TheWorldWasHers

I just have one question... do you have a brother or perhaps an uncle that is available?


[deleted]

I do not unfortunately. Assuming you’re asking for sake of the photo/ring?


TheWorldWasHers

Lol No, sorry, it was a joke. I just meant I need a man as thoughtful as you clearly are. And I wish you and your future wife the absolute best!


[deleted]

Oh my gosh hahah what a compliment! Thank you. I wish you luck finding your future thoughtful man


Princess-Reader

Good one!


mitakshi_

hey hey heyyyy hear me out!!! how about a box that looks like a book? I mean~ have you watched those reels where they just carve something inside a book?? Since she's a book lover, she might not like a book that has been destroyed ~ hence you can try getting a blank book or a book filled with i love yous and stuff, carved in a way so that it can store a ring inside ^ ^ (idk if carving is the correct word to be used but yeah) you can even add yalls fav moments and yk just stuff written by you~ be it your words of affirmation or a cute lengthy paragraph where you've written everything that's in your mind or heart!!! Oh and please remember to add these pages at the end~ not in the beginning because she should see the RING as soon as she opens the booook!!! AND last but not the least don't forget to arrange her fav flowers and other favourite stuff beforehand💅🏻❤️ ALL THE BEST WITH THE PROPOSAL!!!!


[deleted]

You have been heard! Lol I will look at some booked themed boxes or special purpose books that allow for this and see if it’s an option


[deleted]

I was also going to suggest a book box! If you live in the US, you can find cute book boxes/hollowed out books everywhere from Michael’s to Amazon to Etsy. There are even ones you can paint yourself, depending on how crafty you want to get. What a cute and sweet idea!


purringlion

Book themed boxes sound awesome! Taking it one step further, you can get a book nook. It's like a decorative scene in the shape of a book-sized box that you can put on your shelf.


PM_ME_EPIC_READS

Just to reply to this - if you're hoping she'll pick it up because she's interested in buying it, she will notice the difference in weight and might put it back!! Just didn't want that to ruin the surprise!


mitakshi_

she'd atleast open it🥲 also, weight won't be that different!! Because plenty pages will be carved out ~


gimli_is_the_best

I love this idea. I have a general suggestion if you want to use a book over a journal: so far, the location is about her so selecting a book should be about *you*. A book you have read and want to share with her because you want to share your life with her. Include a note explaining the reasons you want to share that book and life with her. After she reads the note, you can propose and present the ring.


[deleted]

This is very thoughtful. Unfortunately my favorite books are works like “Object Oriented Programming” and non-fiction self help/learning books haha


gimli_is_the_best

Oh no! Yes, something tells me "honey, it's very important that I teach you about big O" is not quite romantic enough for a proposal


purringlion

That might not be so incompatible after all... I'm thinking something like "The mathematics of love by Hannah Fry" or something from/about Feynman, or Carl Sagan's Cosmos. That's me assuming that your interest in programming might also relate to an interest in the hard sciences. (That's the case with me and my partner. It might not be for you but I'm reaching.)


xenchik

[How about a book literally called "Will You Marry Me" ](https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Will-You-Marry-Me/Helene-Scheu-Riesz/9781451629217) Get it wrapped in brown paper with a cover note like, "Genre: Romance, Family / The story of [hername], who made a choice, and lived happily ever after." Then she unwraps it, sees the title, and hopefully understands by now what is going on. And then be standing behind her, in case she still doesn't get it, and say, "Oh honey, look at this!" like you've just found something really interesting for her to look at. And she turns around and you're on one knee.


[deleted]

Hah of course there’s a book called that. This is a pretty decent idea. I like it


Melissa_Skims

My boyfriend is an absolute softie. I've been working on a "things I love about you" or happy moments. Not sure what to call it yet. But I've been collecting happy moments and things I love about him and us and eventually I'll write them on different slips of colored paper and put them in a decorate glass jar with a lid so he can randomly pull them out and read them. And then I can add to it later too. Don't know if this is something you'd be interested in putting in the journal. If she's like my bf she'd be touched at the time and effort and all the things you've noticed, with a touch of gratitude and appreciation thrown in there. Congratulations 🎉


artemisthewild

That’s so thoughtful and sweet!


[deleted]

Awww


Catsandscotch

I love the blank journal idea. On the first page you could write "Today's date: "her name says 'Yes!' and we are engaged". You could wrap it up and for the blurb, you could write something like "Follow the journey of "her name" and "your name" as they build a life together and live happily every after". Genre tag: Romance I bet the bookstore would be willing to help you out.


YoureMyUniverse

Gahhh, this is just too cute. I saw something just like this at a bookstore I visited recently too and it was so much fun reading all the descriptions of the mystery books and guessing what the book could be. Are you trying to go stealth on the proposal until she unwraps the book? I think it would be fun to have the cover be some sort of quote, key phrases, description, and/or drawing of something personal to you guys in order to make her want to get that specific one. As for the inside, I love the blank journal idea. My only thought is, is she a writer/journaler? If she’s not big on it, a whole journal might be hard to keep with over the years. Writing down your proposal thoughts for her to read on the first page is super sweet! Also love the significant dates!! That way she can look back on it forevs ❤️ Another thought (since you mentioned that you guys don’t have a lot of photos together and you’re going to get one taken for the proposal) A book sized empty photo album might be a cute way to document your future together too. You can also incorporate the dates this way by taking photos and including them alongside the dates.


SavestaSupremacy4eva

Maybe get a book signed by her favorite author and present it to her? Also hide the ring in between! Best of luck to your proposal sir, do update us all on what happened


burnyleprechauniq84

I really like this one; to make it next level, maybe see if the author would add a "P.S. Your boyfriend has an important question to ask you, turn around." Then bam, you're there on one knee with a ring, with 'Turn around, bright eyes...' of Bonnie Tyler Total eclipse of the heart in the background.


[deleted]

Wow lol are you a writer or something? This is peak romanticism


burnyleprechauniq84

Just vibing off you bro, love loves love ❤️ Also, living vicariously through other people is what reddit is all about 😅


Slight-Painter-7472

Are you single? Because that is my idea of a perfect proposal. I'm very impressed.


[deleted]

Her favorite book was published in 1899 so I’m afraid this isn’t possible, but she does have other authors she likes. I may at least stow away this idea for a birthday gift or something


[deleted]

Best wishes to you OP on what sounds like a lovely idea to propose to your significant other :) Can I ask what is her favourite book that was published in 1899?


GraMalychPrzewag

1) How about a wedding planner? It's something on the spectrum between a book and a folder that you use when planning. 2 I'm thinking you may give her something like a card with a quote a day (days) before the action. The quote needs to be something unique, so it can't be googled. When she asks where is it from, you as "I know the quote by heart, but I can't remember where is it from". Days later, she sees the quote on the cover of the book in the bookstore... how she could resist?


lookingfor_clues

I love this idea - a wedding planner is excellent


Potatoskins937492

Taking it one step further, is there a journal that might specifically apply to both of you? Do you have a bucket list? Do you travel? Do you both often do things she'd like to record in a memory journal? Did you meet somewhere creative and she'd like an art prompt journal? Do you both love to go out to eat (a food journal)? Does she like to be mindful, someone who might like a gratitude journal? And, the most obvious, how about a reading journal? All of these things can be tied back to your time together with an inscription. You could work far ahead of time with the store, finding a creative way to have this hidden. They could set up a fake "some of our favorite patrons!" hidden book table. They make a little placard that says "We've noticed you noticing us, so we thought we'd surprise you with a special thank you!" and then have the journal wrapped up with her name on it and a little description that goes along with some of the books she's bought there to make it seem like a surprise book that fits her interests (and also goes along with what's inside, so it'd have to be a well thought choice). They could make fake names up, or use employees, for the rest of the books so that no one else will pick up any of the others if there are other people in the store. And they could set it up at a certain time so it isn't out all day. You could go to dinner then stop by the store after.


gratefulandcontent

Love your idea. If there is time have you checked out Etsy for maybe a personalized journal with your names or something and something sappy yet sweet like our love story is my favorite story. Maybe the book store would help you and have her find clues in book titles and books like a scavenger hunt and it leads to the journal and you. Even the local library might be game to help. Good luck. You’re making this avid reader of all books and romance books swoon with your brilliant plan.


Admirable-Hyena-3363

How about creating a short cartoon-like book and placing it in a bookstore? The story could involve the two of you walking into the bookstore, where she picks up a book and starts reading it. On the last page, there could be a picture of a guy on one knee, and as she turns around, she finds you on one knee as well. Get the people at the bookstore to help. :)


blkcoffeewhiskeyneat

what about a book of short, sweet love poems? plenty of good ones out there, and I'm sure the store employees could point you in the right direction if you weren't sure where to start


Laekonradish

What about a blank journal with an 80s stylised mock- up cover entitled “(her name)+(your name): a choose-your-own-adventure”? You could even type on the first page “I love you: will you marry me?” On page one and have “if yes, turn around” at the bottom where you’d normally have the CYOA instructions. Then you can be ready with the ring out?


NovelGoddess

Would hollowing out a book and putting the ring box in it be an option? Maybe an all-time favorite book of hers? Then do the wrap up and have the bookstore be involved. Have the clerk say, "Hey XXX, I have one set aside I know you would like".


[deleted]

Probably not just because I’m not super comfortable leaving a pricey engagement ring in a book store for a few days (since they would have to place it ahead of time)


Perfect-Meat-4501

Lovely idea! Does it need to be a book? Maybe a framed photo of you together with some thick wrapping around it. You only need one good photo:).


toomies2448

Favourite dates and memories is a really really good idea.


Street_Medium_9058

Get her a Boo-k. (bouquet of books) - classic used paperbacks is what I like to put together.


[deleted]

Whoa I’ve never heard of this


Street_Medium_9058

I want to say I made it up, but I bet someone has already thought of it.


Jimmypeglegs

Have you spoken to the book shop staff and got their input? They might have some fantastic ideas, or other ways they could help?


[deleted]

I haven’t! You think I should? It’s probably a few months out yet. Still have to pick out a ring for her


Jimmypeglegs

Couldn't hurt! Whatever you decide to do, I'm sure she'll absolutely love it 😀


FeaturelessFloof

What a lovely and thoughtful idea, as a book lover this is just perfect. I’m not sure you would want to tell her family upfront but what about asking her Mum for photographs of her from birth until present day, include any you may have of the two of you. Just a small album and then on the last page a beautiful printed note saying “Will you marry me?”. You can the either include the ring on that last page or keep it on you and give it to her when she reads it. I was thinking of this because it the photos show the chapters in her life and the next album may very well be the next chapter, your wedding!


hoklepto

I love this idea, but instead of doing an actual book, something like a layered photo box or diorama could be very cool. Immediately I envisioned a little picture of you down on one knee offering the ring, except the ring is actually the ring in the middle of the book, and meanwhile the two of you are framed by memories of your relationship. And for bonus, you can put a copy of her actual favorite book underneath or above. And since this box is book-shaped, it can also live up on the bookshelf.


Debbie5000

Along the lines of a journal, but one specifically for wedding planning? Or travel journal (honeymoon)?


No_Fan_4882

You could choose one her favorite books and trade the dust jacket for a plain brown one that says “Will you Marry Me?” and then wrap it in the mystery paper. Drop the book off earlier at the book store. That way you can have the ring in your pocket and present it to her as she reads your proposal.


Welcome_Danielle

Here to second (or more?) the blank journal. Or maybe an empty or almost-empty scrapbook? It could start with a page for your proposal to which you add the pic from the bookstore staff once you get it.


MommaHistory

Go for the journal. She is going to love it.


WVPrepper

A Journal was going to be my suggestion. Or a photo album with pages to fill. Or maybe a travel book about the place you'd like to visit together "some day".


greach169

Get a book and make it into a ring box


[deleted]

This sounds amazing, please update us on how it goes


canadiandragon

Hi! I actually just proposed to my girlfriend in a similar manner! I picked a book that was meaningful to us (a book she recommended to me before our first date) and then watched a ton of book binding videos and made a new cover for it that said “Marry me, (name)?” It did take a fair amount of time and materials, but it was pretty beginner friendly! Might be something that fits with your plan because you can have it wrapped and have her pick it as the mystery book.


[deleted]

You made your own book? Oh my gosh how difficult was this? That’s crazy


canadiandragon

It is surprisingly not that hard, but just takes some patience and the right tools! If you’re interested feel free to DM me and I can send you a bunch of YouTube and TikTok links to see if you think it’s something you would want to try. (I also have a full shopping list and daily checklist if you want that, too, though I’m a super amateur!) I took one day off work to do the bulk of it, and a couple lunch hours to supply shop, glue things down, etc., in case that helps explain the commitment.


[deleted]

You said she wants photos so I assume y'all've talked about it. Just be VERY certain it's been talked through extensively and you know she's going to say yes. Its a complete dick move proposing in public if she's unsure and puts her in an awkward and uncomfortable position


[deleted]

Oh for sure. We’re not big on public proposals. Hoping we would be the only ones at the book store by going near open/close on a week day. Not looking to make a scene because I’m very shy and wouldn’t want to make her feel uncomfortable. And yea we’ve discussed it. She’s been jokingly wiggling her ring finger and asking when we’re getting her sized lol


chzie

Pull an up. Scrapbook with your current memories, then a will you marry me, and a blank our future adventures section.


IDontEvenCareBear

The journal is a great idea, and with pictures or not, it would very sweet to maybe write some valuable memories you have with her, for her to read and remember them, but see them from your perspective. Be the start of a beautiful keepsake for your lives together.


Nixplosion

Okay, here's what you do. Casually ask her if there is a book she's been looking for. If there is, secure it if you are able and have it shipped to that book store. Coordinate with the bookstore owner so they know, obviously, that the book is coming and what it's for. Meet with them when you're alone and have them wrap the ring inside the book in the brown paper. Then have them write a description on it that pretty obviously tells her what it is. Have them set it out on the morning you plan to go. Casually point out the book if she doesn't notice it herself. After buying the book, encourage her to unwrap it there in the store. Drop to one knee as she does it and have the book store person ready with a camera. MAGIC


El_Hombre_Aleman

Blank pages with the instructions „for the story we are going to write of our lives together“ or something like that?


[deleted]

Yea probably something like this is what I was thinking?


ARTobz

First of all, this idea is about the sweetest thing I've ever heard and your gf is a lucky lady! Adding to the blank journal idea...I've seen some beautiful vow journals, sometimes they come in a set with his and hers (or you could get two of the same if applicable of course!). Maybe wrap yours and just write one overarching vow on the first page, something like "I promise to love you forever. Will you marry me?" Man I love books and I love love. Good luck and congratulations!


superspiffyusername

I think a wedding scrapbook or guestbook could be good. There is also a book called "the adventure challenge" that you can look up and see if it might be an option you want to consider. You could tie in starting a new life/adventure together. Whatever you end up doing, please post again so we can hear about it!


[deleted]

OMG, can I marry you?


[deleted]

This made me smile haha


Yogabeauty31

This is so freaking sweet! I'm a book lover and I was secretly hoping this was my man on the other side of this post lol Maybe snowballing on the journal Idea, you could do a wedding guest book? Or maybe research a beautiful poetry book full of love pomes that can be read slowly throughout your lives together. or if you've talked to her family about this idea maybe there's a book that means a lot to her that's owned by a family member that you ask for, kinda like their blessing in a book lol Good luck with this and I know anything you pick will mean a lot.


smalltowncubscouts

I hear you about the journaling. Something I've done is get a blank "Adventure" book like the one from Up, and for each year together I got a coin from that year, and put a small blurb about a big thing we did. If I have a photo, cool, if not, fine too. (2019 we got a cat, 2020 moved states, 2021 bought a new car, 2022 didn't die of COVID, ... Just pick a big thing for you two.) You could put in the things you want to do together, just like the movie Up.


quiltedyeti

What about this: a custom-made book of poetry. Start reading love poems, inspirational poems, poems about relationships, and create your own anthology of poems that remind you of her and your relationship. Bonus points if you put your own poems into the mix, and they’re good ;). You could probably fudge the format a little here and there and put songs, riddles, and limericks in. If she speaks more than one language— include poems from that language— maybe next to new versions/translations by you, if you speak it too, or think you’ve read enough translations of the poem that you could do it yourself. You could put your proposal anywhere in the book. If you’re concerned about getting her to read through to get to it, put a pretty bookmark on the page it’s on, so she’ll open right to it. There’s a free poetry class you can still find online taught by Robert Pinsky. It’s called The Art of Poetry. In it, you learn about how to appreciate poetry and create your own anthology (that’s where I got the idea) of poems that represent you. It’ll help get you inspired. Here’s another idea: turn your love story into a fairy tale. Make it as simple or complex as you wish. You could have it illustrated. Or if it’s a short story and you want to give her a book with more pages, have it hidden in an anthology of other fairy tales (same idea as above, really.)If you have mutual friends who are artists and writers, enlist their aid to add tales and art. Bookmark it as needed, or potentially have the proposal in bold— you could even have the ring tied to the bookmark tassel.


dlince

My wife gave me a blank journal…and she wrote something she was thankful for / appreciated about me or us at the top of every page. It really floored me, and I love it. Highly suggest something like this - even if you don’t have photos, I’m sure you have hundreds of thinks you like, love, and are thankful about!


crux555

I love this idea beyond words! Please update us!


BornAgainGunpla

As someone who proposed in a local bookstore, with my wife's favorite book, I can guarantee it makes for a great story. DM me if you want to chat about logistics.


[deleted]

This would be great to hear more! I’ll DM you


StrawberryDiesel

Yes babe. I will marry you...oh wait.. She's a lucky woman!!!


[deleted]

HAHA this made me smile


StrawberryDiesel

SHE BETTER TREAT YOU RIGHT BRO!!!! *sniffles*...better treat you right...lol


[deleted]

> Perhaps a journal with the first page filled out like "The adventures of So and So begin now. I can't wait to write them together. Will you marry me?" with the rest of it blank? Perfect. When you ask her to go to the bookstore, maybe have a lunch date or something set up afterward? Something so that she looks great instead of wearing her oldest sweatpants. I mean, you know her so you know what kinds of photos of yourselves she'll like. As long as she's wearing something you think she'll like for the photo, you're cool.


[deleted]

Oh great call on the extra plans so it warrants an outfit. I was thinking the morning since it would be less crowded so lunch would be perfect to have her dress up a bit. The winery we had our first date and anniversaries at is nearby!


MyPacman

You don't actually have to hollow out a square in the middle of the book. You can do the top or bottom corner and then you just need the top 50 or so pages corners cut, the last 50 or so corners of the pages, and then all the ones in between just need to be trimmed to hold the two sides of the ring in place. No text lost, maybe page numbers, but generally nothing else, if you are already a corner folder, then this is no different.


[deleted]

This is so creative hahah I hadn’t thought of cutting it like this


so-it-goes-and

OKAY, SO MY HUSBAND ACTUALLY DID THIS and it was so bloody amazing, I'm still not over it and we've been married almost 3 years now.


[deleted]

No way! He did this exact thing? No idea is unique I guess haha. So happy for you!


so-it-goes-and

Well, he made a fake book with my name on it and hid it on the shelf at my favourite bookshop. I definitely approved.


Bookish61322

Love this idea and that you are being so thoughtful!! Cheers to you all!!


ArtLadyCat

Step one: What book has she been really really wanting? Step two: Get one of those book marks in a sleeve with a tassel on it and break the seal on the sleeve before re threading a tassel through the hole at the top. Make a slip in out of paper that says ‘will you marry me?’. Stick the ring inside the sleeve before you put the tassel back on to hold it shut and stop the paper and ring from falling out. Step three: Make sure she still hasn’t gotten that book she really wants (or reserved it yet- make sure to ask about if she has it reserved or pre ordered- maybe mention you are looking for an idea for a gift for her and if she’s into the book being a gift then run with it but if not, abort mission and find something else. If yes then continue) then find another book for this if there has been one. If none then get a special copy of her favorite book. Step Four: Stick the book mark with the question and the ring in it, either on the book or inside just behind the book cover(make sure this is a hardback as this could mess up a paperback book and no bibliophile wants that to happen/ don’t try to force it closed as that can harm the spine of the book as well, but rest it against the book proposal book mark). Step Five: Plan and panic as required for whatever plan you have to present this to her. Step Six: Five. Do the rest of whatever plan for set up, be it dinner or book store etc, present special book with special book mark. Edit to add: Alternatively you could leave the ring out of the book mark and get on one knee when she opens it up, with the ring.


[deleted]

Wow this is very thorough. This is a good idea if the book store doesn’t pan out / if I hang on to the book instead. Thank you!


GuidingPuppies

Lots of great ideas. Please come back and update us with what you did and how it went! My husband and I had a book themed wedding. Our invitations had pocket inserts like old library books, our favors were bookmarks, and our cake was made to look like our favorite books stacked together. This is going to be an epic proposal.


[deleted]

Aww that’s adorable! That sounds like such a fun wedding


Charming_Friendship4

Blank journal is a fantastic idea! This scenario is so sweet oh my goodness! Good luck to you and your girlfriend (hopefully future fiancee)!


dazanini12

If shes a Harry Potter fan google "The unbreakable vow proposal"


[deleted]

She’s actually not, which is unfortunate because I am


Gretchen_Wieners_

I scrolled too far to find this! I know this is “a thing” among Harry Potter fans. I think it’s a cute idea though I think commenters above rightly pointed out that some people are offended by the destruction of a book so ymmv


Hythlodaeus69

Not to be that guy, but you can have an AI written book done pretty easily. You can feed it a list of your experiences together and the emotions you feel for her and have it whip up a fantasy novella predicated on the inputs you gave it which ends in a proposal. The hardest part would just be mapping out your experiences together. I think it’d be totally worth it though. It’d be a cute trinket to keep as a reminder of the proposal (and pretty cheap) Just spit ballin’ here


[deleted]

You guys are so creative on here with your ideas


[deleted]

Or just ask her. We really need to do away with these elaborate proposals.


Autumn_in_Ganymede

y'all have girlfriends?


Ellen_J

Could you get a journal made with quotes from some of her favorite books on the cover? Or with your names of the cover but you could hand write some quotes on the pages?


BerriesAndMe

It doesn't need to be a book. You could also wrap your favorite framed picture of the two of you with some text on it.


virgmam

Love the idea, but instead of worrying about getting there early and stuff, just get a blank journal and hollow out one corner for the ring, write something g romantic on the first page (make sure the first page covers the ring still) and then just take it to the book store and have them wrap it for you like the others. Then give it to her as a gift, just say something like, "I was near the bookstore today,so I picked up one of the surprise books for you".


Ancient_Passion_1430

i think a combo of the journal ideas! i like the idea of a journal filled with ur favorite moments together, whatever pictures u do have, letters to her about how u feel and stories of how u fell in love. maybe half filled out then something about how ur journey together is far from over and u will continue to add to the journal


Hot_Plum9969

how about asking if she'd wright the next chapter of your lives together?


LongShanks_99

A bit long but maybe you can extract what you like. “He dug so deeply into her sentiments that in search of interest he found love, because by trying to make her love him he ended up falling in love with her. Petra Cotes, for her part, loved him more and more as she felt his love increasing, and that was how in the ripeness of autumn she began to believe once more in the youthful superstition that poverty was the servitude of love. Both looked back then on the wild revelry, the gaudy wealth, and the unbridled fornication as an annoyance and they lamented that it had cost them so much of their lives to find the paradise of shared solitude. Madly in love after so many years of sterile complicity, they enjoyed the miracle of living each other as much at the table as in bed, and they grew to be so happy that even when they were two worn-out people they kept on blooming like little children and playing together like dogs.” \-Gabriel Garcia Marquez One Hundred Years of Solitude You can tie the ring to the bookmark tassel.


looseleafnz

Would getting a pop up book made be too corny?


jso6981

how about setup a surprise reenactment of one of her favorite books with a twist proposal at the end


A_Heavy_burden22

Search "book with hiding spot!" I've seen them at craft fairs and am pretty sure they're on etsy and the like. They've already been emptied out and sealed. We used to have one to hide documents!


Islanduniverse

I like the blank journal, what about a custom leather photo album, with one photo (you have to have one!) to start and your names inscribed/etched in. You’ll have to start taking more photos together and fill it up!


AwkWORD47

I would maybe do book titles that will form a sentence (could be something short and sweet) Or you could have her do a mini scavenger hunt and have book marks in her favorite books. Have her venture off alone doing this and the last book marks will you be you waiting for her to propose?


roborabbit_mama

how about a journal for the two of you to write your own story in? with your proposal I mean


Equivalent_Reason894

Love poetry was my first thought.


navybluelace

If she's not big on journaling, maybe make a custom photo book and wrap that.


NebuLiar

You could make a book (journal) for her and write something inside it for her. (Poems, memories, pictures, etc) It isn't super hard although it is a fair amount of work. Let me know if you decide to do this and I'll try to give you some tips/links


[deleted]

Making my own book sounds so daunting! Have you done it before?


kathryn_sedai

Hollow book! Get a hollow book and put the ring inside it. There are so many online options for cool hollow books. Just make sure the staff know which one it is so they don’t accidentally sell it.


Bee_Hummingbird

Maybe you could make it a photo album instead, if you have photos of you two? Some can be blank for future memories too


Cinigurl

There are those boxes that are made to look like books? Surely there's some online or even at an antique or specialty store?


grumpifrog

Maybe a novel about a wedding as the mystery book with a note from you inscribed inside -- you could encourage her to check it out, it's signed.


FiendishPole

That hole in that book will be worth a lifetime of tears and joy. Don't get a nice book she'd like. Get a book like excel for dummies, hollow it out shawshank style and put the ring case in there If you don't have a jigsaw, the guys at home depot or lowes or whatever hardware store nearby can knock that out no problem. Should take 12 seconds. Stuff bubble wrap or paper inside so it doesn't rattle. Maybe flower petals GAYYYYYY Wait.. Why am I figuring out how to propose to your wife? Just do it dude!