Guys always ask, where do I start? They want the proposal experience to be a surprise but chances are they do not want to choose something that the girlfriend hates. My advice is to go ahead and ask. This is a ring she is going to wear the rest of her life. Choosing that ring is a really, really important decision. It’s something you both should have input on. Go ahead and surprise her with the actual proposal, but do not leave her in the dark on the ring. You can be subtle and have her show you ideas. At least make sure you know the shape of the stone and style so you have some direction. These days it’s pretty common for the woman to select the exact ring herself. Do not be surprised if she has a more definitive idea of what she wants than what you thought.