So, you've been in a relationship for a while, you know it's serious and you can't wait for him to propose! Trying to read the signs of whether or not he's ready to propose can be quite exciting and frustrating at the same time. Here are guest contributor Adrian Barber's list of signs that he's ready to pop the question!

"When are you two going to get married?" If you're like a lot of women, you probably hate it when well-meaning relatives and the occasional friend ask you this question. Not only does it leave you and your beau feeling awkward, but if you've been dating for a few years and have been hoping for a ring, this question can be a painful reminder of your long wait.

So how long should you wait around for the man in your life to propose? That, of course, varies from couple to couple. However, if you're looking for a number to give you an idea of the average "wait time," consider that a study conducted by an eHarmony relationship expert revealed that couples were together for an average of about 2.8 years before marriage.

If you've been dating for several years, it's possible that you're closer to a proposal than you realize. But how can you tell? Here are a few telltale signs:

1. Have Most of His Bros Settled down?

If most of his buddies are now married or are in serious relationships, he'll probably hear the "call of the wild" less often. And even when his buddies do call, he's not as eager as he once was to join them.

2. Does He Often Absentmindedly Talk about Future Plans?

Possibly even about his desire to have children someday? If his conversations revolve around more about the two of you rather than just what he wants to do in the future, that is a good sign that he is committed to staying in a long-term relationship.

3. He Actually Seems Interested in Other Weddings

If he's about to propose, he's going to be consciously or subconsciously looking at the details of the different weddings you two are attending to get ideas for your own ceremony.

4. He Wants to Get a Pet Together

Raising a dog or a cat together can be viewed as a test drive for raising a family. If he's talking about getting a pet with you, chances are he sees you as his long term mate.

5. He Talks about Rings

When he walks through Macy's with you, he actually stops at the showcases and talks to you about what type of ring you would like some day. Even stranger, he's using jewelry terms that you're shocked he knows. For instance, he asks you whether you'd prefer a princess or an emerald-cut diamond. Play along and let him know exactly what type of ring you are hoping to get.

6. Secretive with Friends and Family

If you've been catching him talking in a hush-hush manner with your friends or family members, a proposal may be even closer than you think. According to The Knot, he may be asking their opinions on how best to propose to you or advice on the type of ring to get you. He may have even gone to your father to ask him for your hand in marriage.

7. Big Plans

He's planning a vacation to a super romantic spot or has planned a dinner in the restaurant of your first date. Viral videos of over-the-top marriage proposals have put men under a lot of pressure to pop the question in a romantic or creative manner, so your guy is probably trying to find a special way to ask for your hand.

Whether you pick up on the signs or not, getting engaged is an event you'll never forget! Don't try to coach your significant other through the process. Allow him to use his creativity to ask for your hand, because regardless of how he does it, you'll be telling the story for years to come.

Feedback Junction

Where Thoughts and Opinions Converge

ShylaC
2014-01-27T15:39:16.000Z
I'm pretty sure the guy will be ready when he's ready. 2.8 years is ridiculously fast and his buddies aren't going to influence him into doing it either, he'll half of them probably aren't happy in their relationship. Or maybe I'm just not the fairytale type.
Kristy
2014-01-30T13:31:19.234Z
#3. consciously and SUBconsciously. It would be pretty hard for him to do anything unconscious. lol
Manon
2014-03-09T07:40:35.840Z
When love is in the air, nurture it!
Isabella
2015-05-21T13:47:43.539Z
Haha well we had the afternoon in the city, saw The Lion King musical for a matinee performance, and then went to an Italian restaurant for dinner. Before our dessert came out we took turns going to the bathroom and when I got back he had my ring out, so got down on the knee (very quickly, there wasn't enough space) and said "will you marry me" and I was like "why not, lets get the darn ring on!!" Lol i knew i'd get emotional, a couple of tears and shared a hug and kiss :)
Isabella
2015-05-14T07:53:15.184Z
AWS community: I am now officially engaged to my partner of 4 years! I really am on cloud nine, can't believe it haha :D
Isabella
2015-06-03T13:52:48.339Z
It's white gold with a solitare cut and shoulderstones (so there's diamonds in the band as well) - it's not big either, just a small rock which suits me perfectly (I went with him to find the right ring, took a loong time)!
Manon
2014-03-09T07:40:04.589Z
Most of these signs stated happened with me! I love my fiancé & I really felt like I knew it was coming but totally went with it xo dah!