These are 12 Signs Your Partner is Going to Propose to You

Maybe you've been together for what feels like ages, or perhaps you're still fresh in that committed relationship bliss. Either way, thoughts of romantic proposals might be swirling in your head, and it's only natural to search for signs they're going to propose.

From more obvious hints—like asking about your ring size—to subtle signals like a sudden increase in nervousness, we've put together a list of signs they're thinking about proposing (or already have the ring in hand). Dropping a knee and popping the big question might just be right around the corner in your love story!

Joint Plans Become More Common

Watch for a shift in how your partner starts planning for the future, says Tammy Shaklee, a relationship expert and founder of H4M Matchmaking. "If they start prioritizing joint plans over future events apart or make an effort to reduce time spent apart, it could be a hint that they're thinking about the future—specifically, a future with you."

Saving Money Becomes a Bigger Priority

Suggesting cooking at home versus ordering takeout, shopping less frequently or coming up with a new (or more stringent) budget all demonstrate a goal to save more money. This could just be about getting more financially savvy or it could indicate saving up for a big purchase.

"If your partner has suddenly become more mindful of their spending habits, or yours, or started saving more than usual, it might be because they're putting funds aside for a ring or an upcoming proposal plan," says Caleb Birkhoff, LMFT based in San Francisco. "It could be a subtle sign that they're getting ready to spend an uncharacteristic amount on a ring, a wedding or saving for life after marriage."

FEATURED VIDEO FROM THE KNOT

They Ask About Your Ring Size

Asking about your ring size is one of the biggest signs they're going to propose soon. They may do this outright or in more covert ways to help shield the surprise. For example, they may examine your hand very closely, borrow one of your existing rings or ask you to go jewelry shopping for their mom or sister and have you try on a ring in the process.

They're Familiar with Your Pinterest Board

If your partner knows you've been pinning wedding looks or pinning engagement rings to your Pinterest board—and asks to take a look (or you catch them doing so), this is a very big sign they're going to propose.

"Many partners want to make sure they get a ring that you're actually going to like, so if they ask you directly for ring inspiration pics or they take a look at your Pinterest board, it's a really good sign that a proposal is imminent," says relationship expert Nicole Moore.

Marriage and Wedding Talk Increases

Your partner may not even be aware they're doing this. However, if you start noticing an uptick in conversations around weddings and marriages, this is a clear sign that the topics are on their mind. "It suggests they're thinking seriously about the relationship's progression and shows a desire to envision a shared future and hints at potential life changes," says psychotherapist Kristie Tse, LMHC.

You Notice They Seem More Nervous

Proposing to someone is one of the most nerve-wracking things a person can do—even if they've known their partner forever and are confident they'll say yes. "Proposals are significant events in a person's life and can stir up some nerves, even for the most confident and self-assured among us," Birkhoff says. "If your partner seems a bit anxious or overly focused on making sure you're happy and comfortable, it may be because they're mustering up the courage for a life-changing moment."

Or They Seem More Relaxed and Affectionate

Sometimes there's a lot of tension built up in a person's mind when they're trying to decide whether or not to take the next step with a partner. This can create some understandable stress as they work out all the kinks in their mind. Once the decision becomes clear, though, that anxiety can melt away pretty quickly. If a personality shift like this occurs—which might look like a more relaxed disposition or extra affection—then it's a potential sign they are getting ready to propose.

They Suggest a Mani

A new engagement ring calls for some closeups of your hands and lots of ogling from those eager to see your new bling. If your partner hints at getting a manicure this could definitely be a sign they're going to propose soon. "They're anticipating a special occasion where you'll want to look your best for a potential Instagram-worthy moment," Shaklee says.

They're Asking Lots of Questions

Keep an eye out for any peculiar questions they might ask, Shaklee says. "This could be them trying to gather information for a personalized surprise," she explains. They might ask subtle questions, like "What's your favorite XYZ?" or "What sort of flowers do you prefer?"

Some questions might be more obvious, though. For example, they may inquire about how you feel about asking for a parent's blessing before a proposal, whether you'd prefer to have a say in your engagement ring or have it be a surprise or what sort of jewelry you prefer.

They're Spending 1:1 Time with Family or Friends

Your partner may already be close with some friends and family, but if you notice they're spending a lot more time together in person or chatting via text more than usual, a proposal could be on the horizon. They may be getting your parent's blessing, trying to get some input for a ring or coordinating details for the big day itself, Moore says.

Your Friends and Fam Are Acting Sus

The proposal may not just be a secret your partner is keeping from you—it could also be something others know about and are trying to keep on the down low. They could act unusually excited or overly interested in your relationship or a certain day, asking more questions and pushing for specific plans or events.

They might also try to keep you busy or suggest you look your best for certain outings. If they're in on the secret, you may notice awkward silences, peculiar behavior or exaggerated reactions when the topic of your partner or future comes up.

A Certain Day Gets Lots of Attention

When a specific date or time suddenly becomes extraordinarily important—and you're being asked to make sure you're available—this could be a sign they're going to propose. Shaklee says that this could look like adding a date to your joining calendar and double or triple confirming you're available or talking more than usual about the day and some of its details.