They explained that a few flags help signal whether or not it’s time to go wedding dress shopping.

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Joanna Wyganowska, a Gemmologist & Engagement Ring Expert at Queensmith, shared her tips on what to look out for.

She explained that friends and family urging you to get your nails done is one of the top signs.

“This is one of the biggest signs that your partner is going to propose and are wanting you to feel and look your best for those all-important engagement ring pics!” she said.

“If you suspect this might be the case, ensure you agree to get them done. There would be nothing worse than having chipped nail polish when your partner slips the engagement ring on!”

Other signs include a partner’s increased proactiveness, like planning a trip or making more efforts to speak to your family.

“If your partner typically isn’t involved in holiday planning but suddenly becomes very hands-on, it could signal they’re planning a special proposal abroad,” she explained.

“Secondly, If you’ve been together a while and you have a special day coming up (such as an anniversary or your birthday), this could be another sign that they are planning on proposing to you.”

Crowdsourcing help from the family isn’t uncommon and those who notice should turn a blind eye, she advised.

“If you notice an increase in their time spent with your family when you’re not present or they keep sneaking off for private conversations with them, they might be seeking their blessing or doing some extra planning with them,” she said.

“If conversations stop when you enter the room or family gatherings start to feel a little different from usual, they’ve likely had ‘the talk!’ she added. 

If you suspect this might be the case, ensure you agree to get them done. There would be nothing worse than having chipped nail polish when your partner slips the engagement ring on!

Joanna Wyganowska

“Try to avoid asking what they’re talking about so you don’t let on to them that you know something is going on or ruin the surprise.”

Other changes in their behavior, like mood changes, can be illuminating.

“If your partner starts behaving more nervously or becomes unusually quiet around you, it’s a telltale sign that something could be brewing,” she said.

“In such a scenario, they’re likely preoccupied with thoughts of the proposal and anxiously pondering your response to the big question.

“If you notice them exhibiting signs of heightened anxiety, try to support them as much as possible without giving away your suspicion that a proposal might be around the corner.”

Wyganowska added that conversations about the future may be an attempt to get on the same page.

Any sudden budgeting or a seemingly random interest in your jewelry can also be a huge hint.

“If they start wanting to have a quiet night in rather than going out with the boys or cooking dinner on a Saturday night rather than the usual takeaway, these are key signs that your partner is being more mindful of their budget, possibly in preparation for marriage,” she said.

“If you catch your partner snooping around your jewellery box or rummaging through your drawers, they might be trying to figure out your ring size and preferred style without directly asking you. 

“If you suddenly can’t find your favourite ring despite remembering where you last left it, this could be a subtle hint that wedding bells could be coming your way.”