Rules of engagement: Make your Masters proposal a success

Nerves at Augusta National Golf Club are no stranger for golfers. Lately, however, sweaty palms have also come from outside the ropes.

“It’s the most nervous I’ve been in my life,” said Stephen Fogle, who proposed to Jacklyn King behind the 12th tee in 2018. “I was literally shaking.”

In recent years, proposals at the Masters Tournament have become a staple at Amen Corner. Since 2015, at least one hopeful groom has popped the question each year while requesting The Augusta Chronicle document the occasion.

PHOTOS: See some of the masterful proposals we've captured over the years

“I always liked the idea of a public engagement, but nothing too extreme like doing it on a Jumbotron,” said Taylor Lamb, Augusta University’s sports information director, who proposed to longtime girlfriend Alyson Dukes at the 2015 Masters. “That’s what made the Masters great. All the patrons just politely clapped and truly made the moment perfect.”

For Fogle and Lamb, the moment went as scripted. To ensure a memorable day at Augusta, these must-dos will help ease the pressure.

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1. Know your surroundings — With cellphones not permitted at Augusta National, pre-planning is crucial. Set a time and place, and stick to the plan.

2. Nerves, nerves, nerves — Proposing is stressful, and those nerves will often be noticed by your significant other. Because of this, plan the moment for early in the day. Knock it out before lunch, then spend the rest of the afternoon celebrating.

3. Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday — Proposing during a practice round is the best way to capture the moment with photographs. Once the tournament starts, cameras are not permitted on club property for badge holders.

4. It’s all about you — Crowds can be overwhelming at practice rounds, so choose a proposal spot with a clean background for photos. The closer to the rope the better, with simply the golf course in the background. If family and friends aren’t present for the occasion, a nearby patron will assist in preserving the moment.

5. Location — The obvious choice is Amen Corner, as flowers, fame and forever are tough to beat. But similar to the tournament, sleeper picks at Augusta National have been known to pay dividends. Want water? Go to the No. 16 green. Less fanfare? The path along the right side of the No. 2 fairway. How about quick and painless? Instead of waiting to see the course, pop the question at the main scoreboard, located at the right side of the No. 1 fairway.

6. Most importantly, don’t forget the ring.