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How To Propose: Tips & Advice
In addition to the questions addressed in our Engagement Ring Guide, those who wish to propose with an engagement ring face a few unique choices as explained below.
Should I propose with a ring?
There are basically four different ways you can go about it:
- Propose with the engagement ring – If you have a good idea of what design your partner wants, this is definitely the way to go. There is nothing more romantic than proposing with the actual engagement ring. When planning, bear in mind that it can take 4-8 weeks to make a ring, particularly if it’s custom or unique.
- Propose with a loose diamond – If you’re not quite sure which design is the right one, and you want that perfect surprise, one option is to propose with a loose diamond. You can then come in together after the proposal and choose the design together. We provide a beautiful box to display the diamond.
- Choose the diamond and ring together – Many couples choose this option nowadays. Whilst proposing with the ring or a diamond is very romantic, it can be really exciting to share the experience of choosing the diamond and designing the ring together.
- Propose with our “Proposal Ring” – A simple and elegant sterling silver ring with the words Will You Marry Me? engraved around the outside. Our customers love this option because you can pop the question without the added worry that you’ve made the wrong choice of engagement ring. For more information please visit our Proposal Ring page.
How much should I spend?
Before you start your search for the perfect engagement ring, it is important to set yourself a budget. A commonly referred to guide for what to spend is roughly the equivalent to two months’ wages, however we believe that you should choose a budget that is comfortable for your own personal circumstances. Everyone is different! The team at Larsen Jewellery are able to create a beautiful engagement ring for you no matter what your budget is.
How do I know which design to buy?
Pay attention when your partner admires someone else’s ring, or if they point out designs in ads or shop windows. What shape of stone did they comment on? Is it a single stone or did it have stones in the band? Is it a fine or wide band? You could bring in a friend for advice, as long as they can keep a secret! If you are still unsure, the best thing to do in this circumstance is to propose with just the stone, and get your partner involved in the design afterwards.
What metal should I choose?
Look at what other jewellery your partner wears. Do they have a lot of Yellow Gold pieces, or perhaps some white gold or Silver accessories? White Gold is the most popular choice at the moment, followed by Platinum and Yellow Gold. If they have a mix of metals, you could choose to have the band in Yellow Gold and the setting in White Gold, ensuring the ring will go with any of their other pieces.
What else should I consider?
There are many traditions surrounding marriage and proposals, take a moment to reflect on which of these are important to you and your partner. Should you ask your partner’s family for permission to marry before you propose? Are there other personal or cultural considerations?
Some cultures place great significance on factors such as your star signs or the amount of time you have been together. A little research can go a long way to making sure you start your journey to marry on the right foot.
What is their finger size?
We have put together a useful guide to help you figure out what size to choose. Click here to find out more.
Not sure where to start?
Get in touch and one of our jewellers will be happy to answer your questions, or browse our engagement ring galleries to get inspired.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions? We’re happy to answer them!
How do you design an engagement ring?
Designing an engagement ring can seem like a daunting task, but chances are it’s easier than you think. Once you start looking at different engagement ring design ideas, you’ll usually find there are some things you love and others you don’t. If you’re having your ring custom made, you can incorporate all your favourite elements and create a style that is perfect for you.
What are the styles of engagement rings?
Engagement ring designs usually fall into the following categories: Solitaire, Halo, Three-Stone, Side Stones or Other. Our Engagement Ring Design Guide breaks down each of these styles with pictures for inspiration. You’ll also find designs categorised into Vintage, Contemporary, Classic and Bohemian styles.
What does an engagement ring symbolise?
Engagement rings symbolise your intention to marry. Traditionally the completed ring is presented to the bride-to-be during a marriage proposal, but it is not always a surprise. Many couples are now opting to design the engagement ring together. Sometimes a temporary engagement ring, or proposal ring, is used as a place-holder until you find your perfect engagement ring.
What is the most popular engagement ring design?
It is widely accepted that solitaire style engagement rings are the most popular. These are engagement ring designs that feature just one single diamond or gemstone. Halo designs and engagement rings with side stones are also very popular, especially when the main stone is a coloured diamond or gemstone.
How do I choose the right engagement ring?
Whether you are looking for an engagement ring alone or with your partner, you’ll often find you get to the “right” ring quite quickly. The engagement ring that is right for you is the one that you love to look at, love to wear and that fits in to your budget.
What is a good colour for an engagement ring?
Colour is always a personal choice. Not everyone feels comfortable featuring colour in their engagement ring. There are different metal colours you can choose from and an entire rainbow of coloured gemstones. You can choose subtle pastel shades or intense bold colours, the choice is entirely up to you and your own individual style.
