Did his marriage proposal go too far? A journalist's controversial story leaves the Internet divided

Ah, love! At the Seniors Discount Club, we're fond of a good love story, especially when it comes to heartwarming marriage proposals. We've heard them all, from the down-on-one-knee classics to flashy public gestures, but sometimes it's the simplicity of it all that really captures the essence of love.

One journalist, Erica Murphy, recently shared her simple and understated marriage proposal story, which left the internet divided over whether the lack of grandeur was charming or underwhelming.




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Erica Murphy's fiancé proposed to her by writing the question on a piece of paper. Source: Erica Murphy.


Erica was overjoyed when she discovered her fiancé Monta Homes' proposal one morning as she prepared for her day. Written across a torn-out piece of paper were the words, 'Will you marry me?' accompanied by a diamond engagement ring in a box and a lit candle.

The American journalist took to Twitter to announce her engagement, saying, 'This morning before I left for work, he left this in the bathroom for me to find. I said YES! #FutureMrsHomes.'



Erica claimed her fiancé's surprise proposal to be creative and sweet, adding, 'I think it was very sweet. Unique and memorable, to be sure. I'm still smiling and so happy.'

Her announcement spurred a plethora of well-wishers to share their own unique proposal stories, from those who had also received heartfelt notes to those who'd experienced rather unexpected—and sometimes comical—proposals. One such supportive comment read, 'I love the proposal! He took it back to the school notes of 'Will you go with me?' Over-the-top proposals are not necessary when you know your person!'



Despite the wealth of heartwarming stories anyone could find from similar tales of simple proposals, there were those who found Erica's fiancé's proposal to be, well, ‘lacking’. Critics labelled the torn-out note as 'underwhelming' and questioned Monta's approach.


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According to the news anchor, the marriage proposal was deemed 'creative'. Source: Erica Murphy.


When asked if her fiancé was shy, Erica responded, 'Not shy, but I do think he struggled with how to do this. Big step for a guy. A lot of pressure. I'm overjoyed he wrote the note.'

In an interview with TODAY, Erica revealed that Monta had actually flown over 1100 km from Detroit to Atlanta to visit her when she was having a rough day at work. His original plan to propose over a fancy dinner or a holiday took a backseat when he opted for a more spontaneous and heartfelt moment.



Perspectives on Simple vs. Elaborate Proposals​

Monta's proposal to Erica was timed to catch her off guard, and he succeeded in doing so. Despite what some are labelling as a ‘lack of grandeur’ in his proposal, it was the heartfelt simplicity of their unique love story that mattered most to Erica.

This is a sentiment that's often overlooked, as opinions on marriage proposals are often divided between those who prefer a more lavish affair and those who value simplicity. The notion that more extravagant proposals are better has been perpetuated by film and media, but it's important to remember that not everyone is seeking a Hollywood-style romantic experience.



Unfortunately, finances often play a role in planning grand gestures, and some consider a simple, thoughtful gesture to be just as memorable and romantic. Ultimately, the proposal should reflect the values of the couple and what they want to share when reminiscing about the experience.

While some may feel compelled to put on a show, there are those who prefer subtle displays of commitment—what's truly important is that the proposal is meaningful in its own personal way. Don’t you agree?

So, dear readers, here's one for discussion: What do you think? Was the simplicity of this marriage proposal charming or lacklustre? Are extravagant proposals a thing of the past, or are they still necessary to show one's love and commitment?



Key Takeaways
  • American journalist Erica Murphy was proposed to by her fiancé Monta Homes with a simple handwritten note and a diamond engagement ring.
  • The couple's engagement announcement on Twitter received both warm congratulations and suggestions that the proposal was 'underwhelming.'
  • Murphy defended the proposal, saying she thought it was 'very sweet' and 'unique and memorable.'
  • Homes explained his choice of the proposal, saying he wanted to catch his future wife 'when she least expected it' and that the simplicity was heartfelt.
We will leave it to you to decide, but remember, in the world of love, there's a story for everyone. In this rapidly changing digital age, let's not forget the sweet, simple moments that truly make us believe in the power of love.
 
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I love simple, but the only thing I didn't like was that he wasn't there !
He should have hid in the next room or something .
But over all it was good.

Too many people are going over board with proposals and expense.
I proposed to my wife by Telegram and it took 3 proposals for her to say "YES" and that was 56 years ago proving that persistance pays off.
 
My husband sat across the other side of the room and said "you wanna get married", and then complained that I didn't give him an answer for three days
I proposed to my wife by Telegram and it took 3 proposals for her to say "YES" and that was 56 years ago proving that persistance pays off.
Perspectives from both ends, how nice! I bet the three-day wait (and three-time proposal, in @donandviv77's case) must have been quite challenging, to say the least :LOL: I would have gone insane 🤪
 

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