In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the marriage proposal traditions of every country around the world, giving you a glimpse into the diverse ways love is celebrated and honored.
There’s a good chance you’ll fast forward to a specific country of interest, and that’s fine — they’re organized alphabetically for your convenience — but consider browsing through the rest. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of the customs that have shaped the lives of countless couples throughout history. Maybe you’ll even find an idea or two to make your own.
If you’re primarily interested in the most common and practical proposal traditions in hopes you don’t leave anything out of your own proposal, check out our article on 15+ Marriage Proposal Traditions You Should Know.
Grab a cup of coffee and get comfortable: here is an exhaustive list of proposal traditions and customs from around the world!
1. Afghanistan
- Arranged marriages are common, with the groom’s family initiating the proposal and negotiating the marriage terms with the bride’s family.
- Engagement ceremonies, called “Nikah,” involve a religious official and the signing of a marriage contract.
2. Albania
- Traditional proposals involve the groom’s family visiting the bride’s family, bringing gifts and asking for the bride’s hand in marriage.
- A formal engagement ceremony, “Martesë,” is held with both families present.
3. Algeria
- Families play a significant role in the proposal process, with the groom’s family visiting the bride’s family to ask for her hand in marriage.
- The engagement period often involves a “Fiançailles” ceremony with the exchange of gifts and blessings.
4. Andorra
- Similar to Western customs, men often propose by presenting an engagement ring to their partner.
- Families usually meet after the proposal to celebrate and discuss wedding plans.
5. Angola
- The groom’s family offers a dowry or bride price called “Lobolo” to the bride’s family.
- An engagement ceremony called “Alambamento” takes place, where gifts are exchanged between families.
6. Antigua and Barbuda
- Western-style proposals with engagement rings are common.
- Engagements may be announced at a family gathering or celebration.
7. Argentina
- Men typically propose with an engagement ring and sometimes seek the approval of the bride’s family beforehand.
- Engagement parties are often held with close friends and family to celebrate the couple’s commitment.
8. Armenia
- The groom’s family visits the bride’s family to formally ask for her hand in marriage, often with a bottle of Armenian brandy as a gift.
- An engagement ceremony called “Khosk-Kap” is held, with an exchange of rings and a blessing from the couple’s parents.
9. Australia
- Proposals often follow Western customs, with the man presenting an engagement ring to his partner.
- Couples may celebrate their engagement with a party or gathering of family and friends.
10. Austria
- Similar to other Western countries, men propose with an engagement ring.
- Engagement parties or gatherings with family and friends are common to announce and celebrate the engagement.
11. Azerbaijan
- The groom’s family visits the bride’s family to ask for her hand in marriage and discuss the dowry.
- A traditional engagement ceremony, “Nishan Töreni,” involves the exchange of rings and gifts between families.
12. Bahamas
- Western-style proposals with engagement rings are common.
- Engagement parties or gatherings with family and friends are held to celebrate the couple’s commitment.
13. Bahrain
- Arranged marriages are common, with families playing a significant role in the proposal process.
- An engagement ceremony called “Melcha” involves the exchange of rings, blessings from both families, and signing of a marriage contract.
14. Bangladesh
- Arranged marriages are prevalent, with the groom’s family initiating the proposal.
- An engagement ceremony called “Ashirbaad” involves the groom’s family visiting the bride’s home, presenting her with gifts, and offering blessings.
15. Barbados
- Proposals often follow Western customs, with the man presenting an engagement ring to his partner.
- Couples may celebrate their engagement with a party or gathering of family and friends.
16. Belarus
- Men traditionally propose with an engagement ring.
- Families often gather after the proposal to celebrate and discuss wedding plans.
17. Belgium
- Similar to other Western countries, men propose with an engagement ring.
- Engagement parties or gatherings with family and friends are common to announce and celebrate the engagement.
18. Belize
- Western-style proposals with engagement rings are common.
- Engagement parties or gatherings with family and friends are held to celebrate the couple’s commitment.
19. Benin
- The groom’s family offers a dowry or bride price to the bride’s family.
- A traditional engagement ceremony takes place, where gifts are exchanged between families.
20. Bhutan
- The groom’s family visits the bride’s family to ask for her hand in marriage and present gifts.
- An engagement ceremony called “Nagi Rimdro” is held, involving blessings and the exchange of rings.
21. Bolivia
- The groom’s family visits the bride’s family to ask for her hand in marriage.
- A formal engagement ceremony called “Pedida de Mano” is held, where the couple exchanges rings and the families share a meal.
22. Bosnia and Herzegovina
- The groom’s family visits the bride’s family to formally ask for her hand in marriage.
- An engagement ceremony, called “Zaro” or “Sijelo,” is held, with both families present.
23. Botswana
- The groom’s family offers a dowry or bride price called “Lobola” to the bride’s family.
- A traditional engagement ceremony called “Patlo” takes place, where gifts are exchanged between families.
24. Brazil
- Men typically propose with an engagement ring and sometimes seek the approval of the bride’s family beforehand.
- Engagement parties are often held with close friends and family to celebrate the couple’s commitment.
25. Brunei
- Arranged marriages are common, with the groom’s family initiating the proposal.
- An engagement ceremony called “Majlis Pertunangan” involves the exchange of gifts and the signing of a marriage contract.
26. Bulgaria
- Men traditionally propose with an engagement ring.
- Families often gather after the proposal to celebrate and discuss wedding plans.
27. Burkina Faso
- The groom’s family offers a dowry or bride price to the bride’s family.
- A traditional engagement ceremony takes place, where gifts are exchanged between families.
28. Burundi
- The groom’s family offers a dowry or bride price called “Amaboko” to the bride’s family.
- An engagement ceremony called “Gufata Irembo” involves the exchange of gifts and blessings from both families.
29. Cabo Verde
- Western-style proposals with engagement rings are common.
- Couples often celebrate their engagement with a gathering of family and friends.
30. Cambodia
- Arranged marriages are still common, with families initiating the proposal process.
- An engagement ceremony called “Sdech Kong” involves exchanging gifts, blessing the couple, and setting a wedding date.
31. Cameroon
- The groom’s family offers a dowry or bride price to the bride’s family.
- A traditional engagement ceremony takes place, where gifts are exchanged between families.
32. Canada
- Proposals follow Western customs, with men presenting an engagement ring to their partner.
- Engagement parties or gatherings are common to announce and celebrate the engagement.
33. Central African Republic
- The groom’s family offers a dowry or bride price to the bride’s family.
- A traditional engagement ceremony takes place, where gifts are exchanged between families.
34. Chad
- The groom’s family offers a dowry or bride price to the bride’s family.
- A traditional engagement ceremony takes place, where gifts are exchanged between families.
35. Chile
- Men typically propose with an engagement ring and sometimes seek the approval of the bride’s family beforehand.
- Couples often celebrate their engagement with a gathering of family and friends.
36. China
- A formal proposal, called “Betrothal,” involves the groom’s family presenting gifts to the bride’s family, such as betrothal money or jewelry.
- Couples may also participate in a “hair-dressing” ritual, where the bride’s hair is combed and styled, symbolizing her transition into adulthood.
37. Colombia
- Men typically propose with an engagement ring and sometimes seek the approval of the bride’s family beforehand.
- Engagement parties are often held with close friends and family to celebrate the couple’s commitment.
38. Comoros
- The groom’s family offers a dowry or bride price to the bride’s family.
- A traditional engagement ceremony takes place, where gifts are exchanged between families.
39. Congo (Congo-Brazzaville)
- The groom’s family offers a dowry or bride price to the bride’s family.
- A traditional engagement ceremony takes place, where gifts are exchanged between families.
40. Costa Rica
- Western-style proposals with engagement rings are common.
- Couples often celebrate their engagement with a gathering of family and friends.
41. Croatia
- Men traditionally propose with an engagement ring.
- Families often gather after the proposal to celebrate and discuss wedding plans.
42. Cuba
- Western-style proposals with engagement rings are common.
- Engagement parties or gatherings with family and friends are held to celebrate the couple’s commitment.
43. Cyprus
- Men traditionally propose with an engagement ring.
- Engagement parties or gatherings with family and friends are common to announce and celebrate the engagement.
44. Czechia (Czech Republic)
- Men typically propose with an engagement ring and sometimes seek the approval of the bride’s family beforehand.
- Couples often celebrate their engagement with a gathering of family and friends.
45. Democratic Republic of the Congo
- The groom’s family offers a dowry or bride price to the bride’s family.
- A traditional engagement ceremony takes place, where gifts are exchanged between families.
46. Denmark
- Men traditionally propose with an engagement ring.
- Couples often celebrate their engagement with a gathering of family and friends.
47. Djibouti
- The groom’s family offers a dowry or bride price to the bride’s family.
- A traditional engagement ceremony takes place, where gifts are exchanged between families.
48. Dominica
- Western-style proposals with engagement rings are common.
- Couples often celebrate their engagement with a gathering of family and friends.
49. Dominican Republic
- Men typically propose with an engagement ring and sometimes seek the approval of the bride’s family beforehand.
- Engagement parties or gatherings with family and friends are held to celebrate the couple’s commitment.
50. Ecuador
- Men traditionally propose with an engagement ring.
- Couples often celebrate their engagement with a gathering of family and friends.
51. Egypt
- A “Shabka” ceremony takes place, where the groom gifts the bride with a set of jewelry, including the engagement ring.
- An engagement party, called “Katb El-Kitab,” is held with family and friends to celebrate the couple’s commitment.
52. El Salvador
- Western-style proposals with engagement rings are common.
- Couples often celebrate their engagement with a gathering of family and friends.
53. Equatorial Guinea
- The groom’s family offers a dowry or bride price to the bride’s family.
- A traditional engagement ceremony takes place, where gifts are exchanged between families.
54. Eritrea
- The groom’s family offers a dowry or bride price to the bride’s family.
- A traditional engagement ceremony takes place, where gifts are exchanged between families.
55. Estonia
- Men traditionally propose with an engagement ring.
- Couples often celebrate their engagement with a gathering of family and friends.
56. Eswatini (fmr. “Swaziland”)
- The groom’s family offers a dowry or bride price to the bride’s family, called “Lobola.”
- A traditional engagement ceremony takes place, where gifts are exchanged between families.
57. Ethiopia
- The groom’s family offers a dowry or bride price to the bride’s family.
- A traditional engagement ceremony takes place, where gifts are exchanged between families, and a wedding date is set.
58. Fiji
- Traditional Fijian proposals involve the groom’s family presenting a “tabua” (whale’s tooth) to the bride’s family as a sign of commitment.
- Western-style proposals with engagement rings are also becoming more common.
59. Finland
- Men traditionally propose with an engagement ring, often a simple gold band.
- Couples often celebrate their engagement with a gathering of family and friends.
60. France
- Men typically propose with an engagement ring.
- Couples often celebrate their engagement with a gathering of family and friends.
61. Gabon
- The groom’s family offers a dowry or bride price to the bride’s family.
- A traditional engagement ceremony takes place, where gifts are exchanged between families.
62. Gambia
- The groom’s family offers a dowry or bride price to the bride’s family.
- A traditional engagement ceremony takes place, where gifts are exchanged between families.
63. Georgia
- Men traditionally propose with an engagement ring.
- Couples often celebrate their engagement with a gathering of family and friends.
64. Germany
- Men traditionally propose with an engagement ring, often a simple gold band.
- Couples often celebrate their engagement with a gathering of family and friends.
65. Ghana
- The groom’s family offers a dowry or bride price to the bride’s family.
- A traditional engagement ceremony takes place, where gifts are exchanged between families.
66. Greece
- Men typically propose with an engagement ring.
- Couples often celebrate their engagement with a gathering of family and friends.
67. Grenada
- Western-style proposals with engagement rings are common.
- Couples often celebrate their engagement with a gathering of family and friends.
68. Guatemala
- Men traditionally propose with an engagement ring.
- Couples often celebrate their engagement with a gathering of family and friends.
69. Guinea
- The groom’s family offers a dowry or bride price to the bride’s family.
- A traditional engagement ceremony takes place, where gifts are exchanged between families.
70. Guinea-Bissau
- The groom’s family offers a dowry or bride price to the bride’s family.
- A traditional engagement ceremony takes place, where gifts are exchanged between families.
71. Guyana
- Western-style proposals with engagement rings are common.
- Couples often celebrate their engagement with a gathering of family and friends.
72. Haiti
- Men typically propose with an engagement ring.
- Couples often celebrate their engagement with a gathering of family and friends.
73. Honduras
- Men traditionally propose with an engagement ring.
- Couples often celebrate their engagement with a gathering of family and friends.
74. Hungary
- Men typically propose with an engagement ring.
- Couples often celebrate their engagement with a gathering of family and friends.
75. Iceland
- Men traditionally propose with an engagement ring, often a simple gold band.
- Couples often celebrate their engagement with a gathering of family and friends.
76. India
- Engagement customs vary across different regions, religions, and communities.
- Typically, the groom’s family offers a dowry or bride price to the bride’s family.
- A traditional engagement ceremony called “roka” or “sagai” takes place, where gifts are exchanged between families.
77. Indonesia
- Engagement customs vary across different regions, religions, and communities.
- The groom’s family typically offers a dowry or bride price to the bride’s family.
- A traditional engagement ceremony takes place, where gifts are exchanged between families.
78. Iran
- The groom’s family offers a dowry or bride price to the bride’s family.
- A traditional engagement ceremony called “Khastegari” takes place, where the groom’s family visits the bride’s family to ask for her hand in marriage.
79. Iraq
- Engagement customs vary across different regions, religions, and communities.
- The groom’s family typically offers a dowry or bride price to the bride’s family.
- A traditional engagement ceremony takes place, where gifts are exchanged between families.
80. Ireland
- Men traditionally propose with an engagement ring, often a Claddagh ring.
- Couples often celebrate their engagement with a gathering of family and friends.
81. Israel
- Men typically propose with an engagement ring.
- Couples often celebrate their engagement with a gathering of family and friends.
82. Italy
- Men traditionally propose with an engagement ring.
- Couples often celebrate their engagement with a gathering of family and friends.
83. Ivory Coast
- The groom’s family offers a dowry or bride price to the bride’s family.
- A traditional engagement ceremony takes place, where gifts are exchanged between families.
84. Jamaica
- Men traditionally propose with an engagement ring.
- Couples often celebrate their engagement with a gathering of family and friends.
85. Japan
- Men typically propose with an engagement ring.
- Couples often celebrate their engagement with a gathering of family and friends.
- A traditional engagement ceremony called “Yuinou” takes place, where gifts are exchanged between families.
86. Jordan
- The groom’s family typically offers a dowry or bride price to the bride’s family.
- A traditional engagement ceremony takes place, where gifts are exchanged between families.
87. Kazakhstan
- Men traditionally propose with an engagement ring.
- Couples often celebrate their engagement with a gathering of family and friends.
- A traditional engagement ceremony called “Kudalyk” takes place, where the groom’s family visits the bride’s family to ask for her hand in marriage.
88. Kenya
- Engagement customs vary across different regions, tribes, and communities.
- The groom’s family typically offers a dowry or bride price to the bride’s family, often in the form of livestock or money.
- A traditional engagement ceremony takes place, where gifts are exchanged between families.
89. Kiribati
- Men traditionally propose with an engagement ring.
- Couples often celebrate their engagement with a gathering of family and friends.
90. Kuwait
- The groom’s family typically offers a dowry or bride price to the bride’s family.
- A traditional engagement ceremony called “Al-Nishan” takes place, where gifts are exchanged between families.
91. Kyrgyzstan
- Men traditionally propose with an engagement ring.
- Couples often celebrate their engagement with a gathering of family and friends.
- A traditional engagement ceremony takes place, where gifts are exchanged between families.
92. Laos
- Men traditionally propose with an engagement ring.
- Couples often celebrate their engagement with a gathering of family and friends.
- A traditional engagement ceremony called “Baci” or “Sou Khor” takes place, where gifts are exchanged between families.
93. Latvia
- Men traditionally propose with an engagement ring.
- Couples often celebrate their engagement with a gathering of family and friends.
94. Lebanon
- Men traditionally propose with an engagement ring.
- Couples often celebrate their engagement with a gathering of family and friends.
- A traditional engagement ceremony takes place, where gifts are exchanged between families.
95. Lesotho
- Engagement customs vary across different regions, tribes, and communities.
- The groom’s family typically offers a dowry or bride price to the bride’s family, often in the form of livestock or money.
- A traditional engagement ceremony takes place, where gifts are exchanged between families.
96. Liberia
- Men traditionally propose with an engagement ring.
- Couples often celebrate their engagement with a gathering of family and friends.
97. Libya
- The groom’s family typically offers a dowry or bride price to the bride’s family.
- A traditional engagement ceremony takes place, where gifts are exchanged between families.
98. Liechtenstein
- Men traditionally propose with an engagement ring.
- Couples often celebrate their engagement with a gathering of family and friends.
99. Lithuania
- Men traditionally propose with an engagement ring.
- Couples often celebrate their engagement with a gathering of family and friends.
100. Luxembourg
- Men traditionally propose with an engagement ring.
- Couples often celebrate their engagement with a gathering of family and friends.
101. Madagascar
- Engagement customs vary across different tribes and communities.
- The groom’s family typically offers a dowry or bride price to the bride’s family.
- A traditional engagement ceremony takes place, where gifts are exchanged between families.
102. Malawi
- Engagement customs vary across different tribes and communities.
- The groom’s family typically offers a dowry or bride price to the bride’s family.
- A traditional engagement ceremony takes place, where gifts are exchanged between families.
103. Malaysia
- Engagement customs vary depending on the couple’s ethnicity and religion.
- Traditional engagement ceremonies often include the exchange of gifts and dowry between families.
- Couples celebrate their engagement with a gathering of family and friends.
104. Maldives
- Engagement customs are influenced by Islamic traditions.
- The groom’s family typically offers a dowry or bride price to the bride’s family.
- A traditional engagement ceremony takes place, where gifts are exchanged between families.
105. Mali
- Engagement customs vary across different tribes and communities.
- The groom’s family typically offers a dowry or bride price to the bride’s family.
- A traditional engagement ceremony takes place, where gifts are exchanged between families.
106. Malta
- Men traditionally propose with an engagement ring.
- Couples often celebrate their engagement with a gathering of family and friends.
107. Marshall Islands
- Men traditionally propose with an engagement ring.
- Couples often celebrate their engagement with a gathering of family and friends.
108. Mauritania
- Engagement customs vary across different tribes and communities.
- The groom’s family typically offers a dowry or bride price to the bride’s family.
- A traditional engagement ceremony takes place, where gifts are exchanged between families.
109. Mauritius
- Men traditionally propose with an engagement ring.
- Couples often celebrate their engagement with a gathering of family and friends.
110. Mexico
- Men traditionally propose with an engagement ring.
- Couples often celebrate their engagement with a gathering of family and friends.
- A traditional engagement ceremony called “Pedida de Mano” takes place, where the groom asks for the bride’s hand in marriage in front of both families.
111. Micronesia
- Engagement customs vary across different tribes and communities.
- The groom’s family typically offers a dowry or bride price to the bride’s family.
- A traditional engagement ceremony takes place, where gifts are exchanged between families.
112. Moldova
- Men traditionally propose with an engagement ring.
- Couples often celebrate their engagement with a gathering of family and friends.
113. Monaco
- Men traditionally propose with an engagement ring.
- Couples often celebrate their engagement with a gathering of family and friends.
114. Mongolia
- Engagement customs vary across different tribes and communities.
- The groom’s family typically offers a dowry or bride price to the bride’s family.
- A traditional engagement ceremony takes place, where gifts are exchanged between families.
115. Montenegro
- Men traditionally propose with an engagement ring.
- Couples often celebrate their engagement with a gathering of family and friends.
116. Morocco
- Engagement customs are influenced by Islamic traditions.
- The groom’s family typically offers a dowry or bride price to the bride’s family.
- A traditional engagement ceremony takes place, where gifts are exchanged between families.
117. Mozambique
- Engagement customs vary across different tribes and communities.
- The groom’s family typically offers a dowry or bride price to the bride’s family.
- A traditional engagement ceremony takes place, where gifts are exchanged between families.
118. Myanmar (formerly Burma)
- Engagement customs vary depending on the couple’s ethnicity and religion.
- Traditional engagement ceremonies often include the exchange of gifts and dowry between families.
- Couples celebrate their engagement with a gathering of family and friends.
119. Namibia
- Traditional engagement ceremonies can include the payment of bride price, known as “lobola,” by the groom’s family to the bride’s family.
- Couples may also have a formal engagement party to announce their plans to marry.
120. Nauru
- Engagement customs in Nauru are influenced by family and community traditions.
- Couples often exchange gifts and celebrate their engagement with family and friends.
121. Nepal
- In Hindu Nepali culture, an arranged marriage often begins with a pre-engagement ceremony called “swayambar.”
- The groom’s family visits the bride’s home, bearing gifts and sweets, to formally ask for her hand in marriage.
- The couple exchanges rings in a ceremony called “sagun.”
122. Netherlands
- Dutch couples usually have a private engagement before announcing their plans to friends and family.
- Engagement rings are typically diamond solitaires, and some couples may also exchange promise rings during their engagement period.
123. New Zealand
- Engagement customs in New Zealand are influenced by Western traditions.
- Couples typically exchange engagement rings, and some Maori couples incorporate traditional customs, such as the exchange of “taonga” (treasured possessions).
124. Nicaragua
- Engagement customs in Nicaragua often include a formal request for the bride’s hand in marriage by the groom’s family.
- Couples exchange rings and may celebrate their engagement with family and friends.
125. Niger
- Traditional engagement ceremonies in Niger can include the payment of a dowry or bride price.
- Couples and their families may celebrate the engagement with a feast or party.
126. Nigeria
- Nigerian engagements often involve a traditional introduction ceremony, where the two families meet and exchange gifts.
- The groom’s family pays a dowry or bride price, and the couple may also have a formal engagement party.
127. North Korea
- Engagement customs in North Korea are influenced by traditional Korean culture.
- Couples often exchange rings and may have a formal engagement ceremony with close family and friends.
128. North Macedonia (formerly Macedonia)
- Macedonian engagements often begin with a formal proposal and the exchange of rings.
- The couple’s families may also exchange gifts or hold an engagement party.
129. Norway
- Norwegian couples typically have a private engagement before announcing their plans to marry.
- Engagement rings are often simple bands, with the bride receiving a more elaborate ring at the wedding.
130. Oman
- Omani engagement customs include a formal proposal, followed by a period of negotiation between the families regarding the dowry and other arrangements.
- Couples may celebrate their engagement with a gathering of family and friends.
131. Pakistan
- Pakistani engagements often involve a formal proposal and a ring exchange, called “mangni.”
- The groom’s family visits the bride’s family, bearing gifts and sweets, to formally ask for her hand in marriage.
- Couples may also have a formal engagement party to celebrate with family and friends.
132. Palau
- Palauan engagement customs are influenced by family and community traditions.
- Couples often exchange gifts and may have a formal engagement party or ceremony.
133. Palestine State
- Palestinian engagements typically begin with a formal proposal, followed by an exchange of rings.
- A “fatha” ceremony is held to announce the engagement, where the groom’s family visits the bride’s family, bearing gifts and sweets.
- Couples may also have a formal engagement party or reception.
134. Panama
- Panamanian engagement customs often include a formal proposal, followed by an exchange of rings.
- The couple’s families may also exchange gifts or hold an engagement party.
135. Papua New Guinea
- In Papua New Guinea, engagement customs can vary depending on the couple’s cultural background and traditions.
- Couples may exchange gifts or celebrate their engagement with family and friends.
136. Paraguay
- Paraguayan engagements often involve a formal proposal and the exchange of rings.
- Couples may also have a formal engagement party or reception to celebrate with family and friends.
137. Peru
- Peruvian engagements typically begin with a formal proposal and the exchange of rings.
- Couples may also have a formal engagement party or reception, and the bride’s family may host a “pedida de mano” ceremony, where the groom’s family formally asks for her hand in marriage.
138. Philippines
- Filipino engagements often involve a formal proposal, followed by an exchange of rings.
- A “pamamanhikan” ceremony may take place, where the groom’s family visits the bride’s family to formally ask for her hand in marriage.
- Couples may also have a formal engagement party or reception.
139. Poland
- Polish engagements typically begin with a formal proposal and the exchange of rings.
- Couples may also have a formal engagement party or reception to celebrate with family and friends.
140. Portugal
- Portuguese engagements often involve a formal proposal, followed by an exchange of rings.
- Couples may also have a formal engagement party or reception to celebrate with family and friends.
141. Qatar
- Qatari engagement customs include a formal proposal, followed by a period of negotiation between the families regarding the dowry and other arrangements.
- Couples may celebrate their engagement with a gathering of family and friends.
142. Romania
- Romanian engagements often involve a formal proposal and the exchange of rings.
- Couples may also have a formal engagement party or reception to celebrate with family and friends.
143. Russia
- Russian engagements typically begin with a formal proposal and the exchange of rings.
- Couples may also have a formal engagement party or reception to celebrate with family and friends.
144. Rwanda
- Rwandan engagement customs can vary depending on the couple’s cultural background and traditions.
- Couples may exchange gifts or celebrate their engagement with family and friends.
145. Saint Kitts and Nevis
- Engagement customs in Saint Kitts and Nevis often involve a formal proposal, followed by an exchange of rings.
- Couples may also have a formal engagement party or reception to celebrate with family and friends.
146. Saint Lucia
- Saint Lucian engagement customs often include a formal proposal and the exchange of rings.
- Couples may also have a formal engagement party or reception to celebrate with family and friends.
147. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
- Engagement customs in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines often involve a formal proposal, followed by an exchange of rings.
- Couples may also have a formal engagement party or reception to celebrate with family and friends.
148. Samoa
- Samoan engagement customs can vary depending on the couple’s cultural background and traditions.
- Couples may exchange gifts or celebrate their engagement with family and friends.
149. San Marino
- San Marinese engagement customs often involve a formal proposal and the exchange of rings.
- Couples may also have a formal engagement party or reception to celebrate with family and friends.
150. Sao Tome and Principe
- Engagement customs in Sao Tome and Principe can vary depending on the couple’s cultural background and traditions.
- Couples may exchange gifts or celebrate their engagement with family and friends.
151. Saudi Arabia
- Saudi Arabian engagement customs often involve a formal proposal and an exchange of rings.
- A “katb al-kitab” or “milcha” ceremony may be held, where the couple signs a marriage contract in the presence of a religious official and witnesses.
- Couples may also have a formal engagement party or reception to celebrate with family and friends.
152. Senegal
- In Senegal, the proposal process often involves the groom’s family visiting the bride’s family to ask for her hand in marriage.
- A traditional ceremony called “La Tente” may take place, during which the groom’s family presents gifts, such as kola nuts, to the bride’s family.
153. Serbia
- Serbian engagements often involve the exchange of engagement rings, which are worn on the right hand.
- There may be a traditional ceremony called “Veridba,” where the groom’s family visits the bride’s family with gifts and blessings for the future marriage.
154. Seychelles
- In Seychelles, a formal proposal and the exchange of engagement rings are common.
- The groom may ask for the bride’s hand in marriage from her parents.
- Couples may have a formal engagement party or reception to celebrate with family and friends.
155. Sierra Leone
- In Sierra Leone, the groom’s family typically visits the bride’s family to ask for her hand in marriage.
- The families may discuss and negotiate the bride price, which can include gifts, money, or other items.
- The couple may also exchange rings during a formal engagement ceremony.
156. Singapore
- Singaporean engagement customs can vary depending on the couple’s ethnic background.
- In Chinese Singaporean culture, a betrothal ceremony called “Guo Da Li” may take place, during which the groom’s family presents gifts to the bride’s family.
- For Malay Singaporeans, a “Merenjis” ceremony may occur, where the couple and their families exchange blessings and gifts.
- Indian Singaporeans may have an engagement ceremony called “Sagai” or “Nichayathartham,” which involves exchanging rings and gifts.
157. Slovakia
- Slovakian engagements often begin with the groom formally asking the bride’s father for her hand in marriage.
- Couples typically exchange engagement rings during the proposal, and a formal engagement party may follow.
158. Slovenia
- In Slovenia, the groom traditionally asks the bride’s father for her hand in marriage before proposing.
- The couple may exchange engagement rings and celebrate their engagement with a party or gathering with friends and family.
159. Solomon Islands
- Solomon Islands engagements may involve a formal proposal and the exchange of rings.
- The couple’s families may also come together to discuss and negotiate bride price and wedding arrangements.
160. Somalia
- In Somalia, the groom’s family may visit the bride’s family to ask for her hand in marriage and negotiate the bride price.
- Couples may also have a formal engagement ceremony called “Jeelka” during which they exchange rings.
161. South Africa
- South African engagement customs can vary depending on the couple’s cultural background.
- A formal proposal and the exchange of engagement rings are common, as well as celebrating the engagement with family and friends.
162. South Korea
- In South Korea, the groom’s family typically visits the bride’s family to ask for her hand in marriage.
- A traditional gift exchange called “Yedan” may take place between the families, and the couple may exchange engagement rings.
163. South Sudan
- South Sudanese engagement customs can vary depending on the couple’s cultural background.
- The groom’s family may visit the bride’s family to ask for her hand in marriage, and the families may discuss and negotiate bride price.
164. Spain
- Spanish engagements often involve a formal proposal and the exchange of engagement rings.
- The groom may ask the bride’s father for her hand in marriage before proposing, and the couple may celebrate their engagement with friends and family.
165. Sri Lanka
- Sri Lankan engagement customs can vary depending on the couple’s cultural background.
- Couples may exchange engagement rings during a formal ceremony and celebrate their engagement with family and friends.
166. Sudan
- In Sudan, the groom’s family may visit the bride’s family to ask for her hand in marriage and negotiate the bride price.
- Couples may also exchange engagement rings and celebrate their engagement with family and friends.
167. Suriname
- Surinamese engagement customs often involve a formal proposal and the exchange of rings.
- Couples may have a formal engagement party or reception to celebrate with family and friends.
168. Sweden
- Swedish engagements typically involve a formal proposal and the exchange of engagement rings.
- Couples may also have a formal engagement party or reception to celebrate with family and friends.
169. Switzerland
- In Switzerland, couples typically exchange engagement rings during a formal proposal.
- Some Swiss couples choose to exchange watches instead of rings as a symbol of their commitment.
170. Syria
- Syrian engagements usually involve a formal proposal and the exchange of engagement rings.
- The groom’s family may visit the bride’s family to ask for her hand in marriage and to negotiate the bride price.
171. Tajikistan
- Tajik engagement customs may include the groom’s family visiting the bride’s family to ask for her hand in marriage.
- The couple may exchange rings during a formal proposal, and a celebration with family and friends may follow.
172. Tanzania
- Tanzanian engagement customs can vary depending on the couple’s cultural background.
- Couples may exchange rings during a formal proposal and celebrate their engagement with family and friends.
173. Thailand
- In Thailand, the groom may offer a “Sin Sod” (dowry) to the bride’s family as a gesture of goodwill and commitment.
- Couples may have a formal engagement ceremony called “Thong Mun,” during which they exchange rings.
174. Timor-Leste
- Timorese engagement customs often involve a formal proposal and the exchange of engagement rings.
- Couples may also have a formal engagement party or reception to celebrate with family and friends.
175. Togo
- Togolese engagement customs can vary depending on the couple’s cultural background and traditions.
- Couples may exchange gifts or celebrate their engagement with family and friends.
176. Tonga
- In Tonga, engagements typically involve a formal proposal and the exchange of rings.
- Couples may also have a formal engagement party or reception to celebrate with family and friends.
177. Trinidad and Tobago
- Trinidadian and Tobagonian engagement customs often involve a formal proposal and the exchange of engagement rings.
- Couples may also have a formal engagement party or reception to celebrate with family and friends.
178. Tunisia
- Tunisian engagements usually involve a formal proposal and the exchange of engagement rings.
- The groom’s family may visit the bride’s family to ask for her hand in marriage and negotiate the dowry.
179. Turkey
- In Turkey, the groom may visit the bride’s family with a small delegation to ask for her hand in marriage.
- Couples may exchange engagement rings during a formal ceremony called “Nişan” and celebrate their engagement with family and friends.
180. Turkmenistan
- Turkmen engagement customs may involve the groom’s family visiting the bride’s family to ask for her hand in marriage.
- The couple may exchange rings during a formal proposal, and a celebration with family and friends may follow.
181. Tuvalu
- Tuvaluan engagements typically involve a formal proposal and the exchange of engagement rings.
- Couples may also have a formal engagement party or reception to celebrate with family and friends.
182. Uganda
- Ugandan engagement customs can vary depending on the couple’s cultural background and traditions.
- Couples may exchange gifts or celebrate their engagement with family and friends, and dowries may be negotiated in some communities.
183. Ukraine
- Ukrainian engagements often involve a formal proposal and the exchange of engagement rings.
- Couples may also have a formal engagement party or reception to celebrate with family and friends.
184. United Arab Emirates
- Emirati engagement customs involve a formal proposal, and the groom’s family may visit the bride’s family to ask for her hand in marriage.
- Couples may have an engagement party called “Al Khoutha,” where they exchange rings and celebrate with family and friends.
185. United Kingdom
- In the United Kingdom, engagements typically involve a formal proposal and the exchange of engagement rings.
- Couples may also have a formal engagement party or reception to celebrate with family and friends.
186. United States of America
- American engagements often involve a formal proposal and the exchange of engagement rings.
- Couples may also have a formal engagement party or reception to celebrate with family and friends.
187. Uruguay
- Uruguayan engagement customs often involve a formal proposal and the exchange of engagement rings.
- Couples may also have a formal engagement party or reception to celebrate with family and friends.
188. Uzbekistan
- Uzbek engagement customs may involve the groom’s family visiting the bride’s family to ask for her hand in marriage.
- The couple may exchange rings during a formal proposal, and a celebration with family and friends may follow.
189. Vanuatu
- Engagement customs in Vanuatu can vary depending on the couple’s cultural background and traditions.
- Couples may exchange gifts or celebrate their engagement with family and friends.
190. Venezuela
- Venezuelan engagements often involve a formal proposal and the exchange of engagement rings.
- Couples may also have a formal engagement party or reception to celebrate with family and friends.
191. Vietnam
- Vietnamese engagement customs involve a formal proposal, and the groom’s family may visit the bride’s family to ask for her hand in marriage.
- Couples may have an engagement ceremony called “Le Dinh Hon,” where they exchange rings and gifts, and celebrate with family and friends.
192. Yemen
- In Yemen, engagements typically involve the groom’s family visiting the bride’s family to ask for her hand in marriage.
- Gifts, such as jewelry or clothing, may be exchanged, and a celebration with family and friends may follow.
193. Zambia
- Zambian engagement customs can vary depending on the couple’s cultural background and traditions.
- Couples may exchange gifts or celebrate their engagement with family and friends, and dowries may be negotiated in some communities.
194. Zimbabwe
- Zimbabwean engagement customs often involve the groom’s family visiting the bride’s family to ask for her hand in marriage.
- Couples may exchange gifts or celebrate their engagement with family and friends, and dowries, known as “roora,” may be negotiated.
It’s clear that love, commitment, and the desire to celebrate the lifelong union of marriage transcends borders and cultures. We hope this comprehensive guide has given you valuable insights and inspiration for your own proposal, or simply broadened your understanding of the diverse customs and practices that have shaped relationships for generations.
Remember to explore our article highlighting the most important proposal traditions, which will help you navigate the most significant customs that may resonate with you and your partner. By understanding and honoring these traditions, you’ll create a meaningful and memorable proposal that will form the foundation of a lifetime of love and happiness together!