Are you ready to propose to your girlfriend? You may think you are, but what guys don’t realize, is that every girl dreams of the day when she will get engaged. She dreams about the romance, the proposal, the ring, and of course the perfect guy! It’s hopefully going to be a story that she will tell for the rest of her life.

You may have some questions you need answered before you decide to pop the question. It’s normal. If you’ve never proposed before, how are you supposed to know about proper engagement ring etiquette?

Use the following questions and answers to guide you through the process of buying the perfect diamond engagement ring and planning the perfect proposal:

Who usually pays for the diamond engagement ring?

In a traditional engagement, the man is responsible for paying for his future bride’s engagement ring. A diamond engagement is meant to be given as a gift to represent your commitment to one another. What kind of gift would it be if you didn’t buy it?

The standard is for a man to spend the equivalent of two month’s salary on a diamond engagement ring. While this figure is just meant to give a solid starting point, it is important to set a realistic budget.

Should the engagement ring be a surprise?

In the past, proposal etiquette dictated that the man should choose the diamond engagement ring for his bride-to-be and present it after the proposal was accepted. Today, it is now perfectly acceptable for a couple to pick out engagement rings together. It can actually make the experience more special if you are making the decision together.

Is it necessary to ask her parent’s permission?

While it may seem old-fashioned, it is proper etiquette to ask your girlfriend’s parents for their blessing before you propose. Not only is it a classy way to start your engagement, but it is also a great way to show respect for your future in-laws.

Is it necessary to get down on one knee?

Again, tradition dictates that during a proposal a man should get down on one knee when presenting the diamond engagement ring to his future bride. Getting down on one knee is part of the fairytale that women hope for when they imagine their proposal. Plus, it is the first thing her friends will ask about (after the ring, of course), so give her something to brag about.

Who should be first to hear the big announcement?

Engagement ring etiquette says that the first people to know about the proposal should be the bride-to-be’s parents and the groom’s parents. Your parents will become a major part of your marriage, and it is important to start things off on a positive note. By announcing to your parents first, you show that you respect and value their role in your relationship.

Start your new life as a couple the right way, follow tradition and give your girlfriend the diamond engagement ring and proposal she’s always dreamed of.