When it Comes to Engagements, Manners Matter

With marriage proposals modernizing into an "anything goes" mentality, long-standing proposal customs are often considered optional, adding confusion to what's considered proper when it comes to proposing.

In fact, a recent proposal survey conducted by Korbel Champagne Cellars revealed that 68 percent of Americans agree that there's no "right" way to propose.

Korbel and etiquette expert Peter Post weigh in on some of today's most-discussed proposal etiquette issues:

Meet the Parents

* This is a common question and an area where the rules have slightly changed. The concept of asking your intended's parents' permission to wed may seem old-fashioned, but the modern equivalent isn't - discussing your plans and intentions with your future in-laws is still a sign of respect.

On Bended Knee

* Once considered a sign of servitude to the lover, this tradition dates back to the days of knights and chivalry and continues to evoke romance today. But if you think you'll be weak at the knees when proposing, pick another pose that's comfortable for you.

Romance Rules

* Decide on what your intended will find sentimental and memorable and incorporate meaningful gestures - such as asking for her hand at her favorite restaurant.

As etiquette guidelines evolve with the times, planning a proposal can be confusing and overwhelming. That's why

Korbel is once again helping men and women make their ultimate "Marry Me?" moment a reality through The Korbel Perfect Proposal Contest.

Judges will select three first-prize winners and Korbel will bring their winning proposals to life just before Valentine's Day, 2005, including an exclusive round Signature Diamond Engagement Ring from Blue Nile (created from among the top 1 percent of all diamonds in the world). The grand prize winner will also receive a honeymoon cruise on Norwegian Cruise Line.

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For more information on The Korbel Perfect Proposal Contest, including official rules, eligibility and restrictions, visit www.korbel.com. Please note contest is void in California and where prohibited. Editor's note: The study was conducted by Harris Interactive from May 27 to May 30, 2004. The telephone survey was completed nationwide among 621 Americans age 25 through 60. Data were weighted to known norms for age, sex, geographic region and race. Margin of error is plus or minus 3.9 percentage points. - NU