Getting engaged is so exiting in and of itself but more so if done in a creative romantic way. I've always thought it romantic for the guy to ask his girlfriend's father for his blessing before he actually pops the question.

I was once asked if it was politically correct for the girl to ask the guy for his hand in marriage and my answer was YES! As untraditional as it is, it has been done. It brought me to wonder though... who would buy the engagement ring?... would she buy one for herself or for him??

For those of you not yet engaged, think of one thing that the two of you has in common and run with it. I've heard of brides finding their ring in a pack of "unopened?" M&Ms and another found her ring attached to the hook on her fishing pole, now that's creative and romantic, given the fact that they "both" had a passion for fishing. The possibilities are endless. So be creative.

Once you've accepted the proposal your life suddenly revolves around planning a wedding.

A good place to start is to go to your local Bridal Shows which are plentiful and mostly scheduled within the first three months of the year and then again in the fall. Where else could you go to visit an abundance of wedding service providers under one roof?

You will find that bridal shows offer a wealth of information that will ultimately prepare you for your journey through the world of wedding planning. They are a fun and exciting experience that offer the perfect opportunity to share wedding planning with your fiancé and/or parents.

Be sure to ask questions, take notes and by all means sign up for all the drawings, who knows, you may be a winner?

Unless you know for sure that you want to hire a wedding service provider I always advise that you make your decision under less pressure. When you get home read through the information you've collected and then take the time to visit them at their retail location.

Wear comfortable shoes, bring address labels for the drawings and have fun shopping!