So, you’ve met your soulmate -- you two have been dating for a while, shared some awesome experiences together, and made some great memories. Maybe you’re thinking it's time to take things to the next level: proposing. The proposal is whatever you want to make of it! Some people like to go big, some people like to keep it on the down-low, but however you decide to propose, here are some things to keep in mind before you pop the question:
1. Talk it Over
Before you do any planning or any shopping, make sure you and your partner are on the same page. Communication is key in any relationship and having an open and honest conversation about the future. It might be awkward, but it’ll be so worth it when you know your partner is going to say yes to that ring!
2. Find a Dazzling Diamond
The engagement ring is the focal point of the proposal. It’s the piece of jewelry your partner will be wearing for the rest of their life, so shopping for the perfect ring might be the most important shopping trip ever. Do a little snooping and check out the type of jewelry they wear every day – maybe your partner has a Pinterest board with all of their favorite styles saved, maybe their sister or friends have talked about what they like, or maybe you both came in and picked out a few different styles of engagement rings together! Everyone does it a little differently and that’s the beauty of it! Just be sure you’re shopping from a reputable jeweler with a record of great service and high reviews.
Not sure where to start? Check out our Engagement Rings: 101
3. Protect the Investment
Before you even think of going anywhere with that diamond ring, make sure you have it insured. Your jeweler should be able to provide you with a formal insurance appraisal for the ring when you purchase it or shortly after. In most cases, you can insure the ring at a minimal cost under your homeowner’s insurance policy. Once the ring is insured, all you have to do is keep it safe until it's on your partners' finger! Always keep the ring in its box while it’s hidden before the proposal and once the time comes, keep it secure in a zipped pocket where you can easily reach it.
4. Make the Plan
Now that you have the ring, it’s time to plan the big moment. What kind of proposal were you thinking of having? A fancy dinner with champagne? A grand affair in front of a crowd? Or a surprise moment surrounded by family and friends? Think of what your partner would love the most – and go with your heart! Our Sayers Sweethearts have proposed in helicopter tours, in Machu Picchu, on a fishing boat, in their backyard, and everywhere in between. No matter what you plan, you’ll know when the time is right.
5. Grab a Photographer
If you want those Instagram-worthy engagement photos and their reaction to you down on one knee captured forever, it might be worth having a photographer on standby. You might hire a photographer for the occasion, or ask a friend or family member to hide behind some bushes. Our favorite Sayers Sweethearts engagement photos came from hidden photographers, friendly bystanders, and a pretend photoshoot!
6. Pop the Question
The time is now! The setting is perfect. The question is dancing on the tip of your tongue. Get down on one knee, say something sentimental (or maybe you make a joke of it!), and reach for that ring. Pro-tip: If you put the ring in your sock, kneel on the opposite knee to avoid any awkward reshuffling or stretching to reach. After you’ve asked your partner for their hand in marriage, let them have a moment. Everyone reacts differently! Once they’ve composed themselves and are ready, it’s time to put a ring on it.
Congratulations, you’re now engaged! All of the nerves and planning and coordinating were totally worth it in the end. Each engaged couple moves at their own pace, but soon enough it'll be time to plan the wedding 😉