Need help deciding how to propose? Look to the zodiac to guide.
A recent study from New York jeweler Ben Garelick is shining a light on how zodiac signs are influencing proposal plans among LGBTQ+ couples. Turns out, your star sign might be guiding more than just your daily horoscope—it could be shaping how you pop the big question (or how you hope your partner will). From when to propose to where to pop the question, couples are taking their astrological personalities into account when it comes to one of the most memorable moments of their lives.
Astrology has always been a fun way to gain insights into our personalities and relationships, but this study takes it up a notch by showing just how much those zodiac traits can play into proposals. For example, water signs like Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces are all about emotional connections, so it’s no surprise they gravitate towards intimate, low-key proposals—think cozy moments at home or sunset walks on the beach. On the flip side, fire signs like Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius live for bold, dramatic moments, so you’ll often find them planning epic public proposals or something with a serious wow factor.
Then you’ve got the air signs—Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius—who are all about spontaneity and creativity. They love proposals that break away from tradition, with unique, offbeat settings that show off their quirky side. Earth signs like Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn, however, keep it classic and grounded. They often lean towards timeless proposals, like romantic dinners or beautiful outdoor spots, where tradition and elegance come together perfectly.
So plug in you and your partner's sign to the stats below and let the stars be your guide for popping the question.
Proposal Dynamics
In a striking display of confidence, Leo (July 23 – August 22), known for taking the center stage, led the way with 25% expressing a preference for their partner proposing. Competitively, Capricorn (December 22 – January 19) made the first move with 28% proposing first.
Materialistic vs Immaterial
Aquarius (January 20 – February 18) and Taurus (April 20 – May 20) stood at opposing ends. Aquarius, with a strong independent streak, led the trend of ringless proposals at 23%. In contrast, Taurus, known for their attachment to tradition, saw only 9% deviating from using a ring.
Double Proposals
Taurus and Aquarius emerged as the forerunners in challenging gendered proposal norms, with 36% experiencing simultaneous proposals, highlighting their desire to share this pivotal moment equally.
Public vs Private Proposals
Intriguingly, the deeply introverted Scorpio (October 23 – November 21) showed a significant preference for private proposals (69%). Conversely, drama-loving Libras (September 23 – October 22) leaned towards public proposals, with 54% choosing to propose in front of an audience.
Unique Proposal Scenarios
Among public proposers, Pisces (February 19 – March 20) gravitated towards one-of-a-kind experiences, with 33% proposing during nature-based events. Meanwhile, traditional Geminis (May 21 – June 20) and Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21) preferred romantic candlelit dinners (36%). Adventurous Cancers (June 21 – July 22) preferred cultural settings abroad, and courageous Aries chose adrenaline-filled proposals like skydives or extreme sports (17%).
Intimate Proposals: Home and Luxury
For private proposals, 77% of Pisces chose the comfort of their homes, while 35% of Libras favored a private dinner, adding a luxurious twist to their intimate moments.
Traditional vs Unique Gestures
Sagittarius held on to tradition, with 88% going down on one knee. In stark contrast, 36% of Libras opted for unique, non-traditional proposal gestures.
Announcing the Engagement
Aries emerged as the most open sign, with 56% announcing their engagements to friends and families. On the flip side, 40% of Pisces preferred to cherish their engagement privately.
Significance of Dates
While Taurus exhibited spontaneity with 59% proposals on random dates, sentimental Virgos saw proposals on anniversaries (21%) and birthdays (19%). Aquarius emerged as the most romantic sign, with 17% of proposals happening on Valentine's Day.
Expenditure on Proposals
Scorpios emphasized the significance of the moment over spending, with 32% reporting spending $0 on their proposals.
Photo credits: Photo 1: JJ Ignotz Photography for Shannon and Kay's NYC Park Proposal; Photo 2: Photos by Jesse Rose for Holly and Adannay's At-Home Proposal; Photo 3: Sara Toki Photography for Sydney and Kyle's Rooftop Proposal
This feature originally appeared in our V9 print issue. Grab your copy here.
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