Popping the question

[scotty34]

What is the generally accepted modern practise for asking a girl to marry you? From TV, I had always assumed that the guy went out and bought a ring, then proposed to the girl who would be utterly astounded, and stammer out a yes(or no). Reading the thread earlier, many people were talking about how they discussed with their fiance which ring they would be buying. There doesn't seem to be any element of surprise, and it is all planned out before hand.

For everyone who is married now or plans to get married soon, how did you or are you going to go about it? I suppose it would help if you included the year in which this happened, as traditions may be changing. Also, include any other details such as did you discuss with her father first, etc.

I'm only 19, so I don't plan on having to do this anytime in the near future, but I feel it's an area where I should be knowledgeable.