Nearly half of Brits think asking parents before proposing is outdated — do you agree?

Nearly half of people think the tradition of asking a partner’s parents for permission before proposing should be dropped.

The figures showed 49% believed the custom should be dropped, while 34% said it should be preserved and 17% were unsure.

Women were more likely than men to say the tradition should be dropped, at 52% compared with 45%.

The Midlands was the region most likely to move away from the custom, with 55% saying it should be dropped, followed by the North and Scotland at 51%.

London stood apart as the only region where more people wanted the tradition preserved than dropped, with 42% backing it and 36% saying it should go.

Stacie Hutchinson, from MJJ, who analysed the YouGov data, said there is no single approach that works for everyone.

“For some couples, involving family beforehand will feel like a natural step. For others, it may not feel necessary,” she said.

“What matters most is understanding your partner and choosing an approach that reflects your relationship.

“For some people, speaking to the parents can feel like a meaningful way to show respect and include them in an important moment. For others, it can feel more personal if the proposal stays between the couple until afterwards.

“Neither approach is right or wrong, it really depends on the dynamic between the couple and their families.

“The key is making sure it feels thoughtful rather than expected, and that it adds to the moment rather than taking anything away from it.”

Photo by Alejandro Aznar: https://www.pexels.com/photo/engagement-of-man-and-woman-20181855/