How to propose

For many people, marriage is a natural progression in a relationship; not only is it a symbol of love and commitment, it is a statement of lifelong loyalty. If you’re thinking about taking the leap and proposing to that special someone, then chances are you’re feeling pretty apprehensive and nervous. Don’t worry. This is completely normal; after all, you want to get it just right.  

A proposal is a special moment in a couple’s relationship, so you must take time to consider every aspect of the moment before it happens. Here at Miltons Diamonds,  we know a thing or two about proposals and have all the information you need to plan the perfect moment for you and your partner below.

1. Our first step is straightforward: make sure they are the ‘one’. It may seem like a simple instruction, and it is, making sure you are ready to spend the rest of your life with your partner is vital if you want the marriage to succeed. 
2. This may seem a little old fashioned, but it is preferred to ask your partner’s family for permission before proposing. These days, you don’t necessarily have to ask the father, just someone in the immediate family, to show your respect and showcase your intentions.
3. The next step may take a little thought – deciding where to propose. Whether you have a special place in mind, or you’re looking for somewhere new, it is essential to make it memorable. This is a moment that will be treasured for a lifetime, so choosing the right place is essential for creating the right atmosphere. You can propose anywhere, but a place meaningful to you both makes a more sentimental proposition. Consider your favourite places and activities you enjoy together, whether it’s camping, cycling, travelling or snuggling up at home, bear in mind other people. If your partner likes their privacy, consider that they may not want the whole world watching! If you’re looking for some inspiration, we’ve got some beautiful location ideas on the horizon. 
4. Once you know the location, you need to pick a date to propose. Some people opt for an occasion such as the date they met, while some prefer to create a new milestone. There are no rules for this. It’s whatever works for you. 
5. Once the finer details are in place, it is now time to decide how you are going to propose. Will you take the traditional approach and get down on one knee or will you go for something a little more quirky? Again this is a personal preference and what you think your partner would most prefer.
6. Choosing the ring. This is the part you need to get right, it’s going to be your symbolic statement, and it’s going to be on their finger for life, so choosing a style that best suits them is essential. Check out our engagement ring guide for inspiration. 

Engagement ring guide

How much should you spend on an engagement ring? 

Investing in an engagement ring for the most important person in your life is an important emotional and financial decision. Setting your budget early will help to clarify what kind of rings you’re able to afford and enable you to narrow down your search accordingly. Whether you are keen to stick to the two or three months salary rule or wishing to spend a little less, there will be a beautiful engagement ring out there to suit your budget. If you want a little more sparkle for your money, you may consider a pre-owned engagement ring, the cost is a little less, but the quality is still as good as new.

Which hand does the engagement ring go on?

In the majority of Western countries, the tradition is to wear an engagement ring on the fourth finger of the left hand. This concept traces back to the Ancient Romans as they believed this finger had a vein that ran directly to the heart. They referred to this as the Vena Amoris, meaning ‘vein of love’.

How to pick an engagement ring

Jewellery style

Once you have a budget set, the next step to take when looking for the perfect engagement ring is to become familiar with your partner’s jewellery style. It may sound obvious, but many people overlook this aspect and neglect to cater to their partner’s jewellery tastes. It’s easy to be subtle when conducting your research into what jewellery they like to wear; simply take notice of their metal preferences (white gold, yellow gold, platinum) and if they want statement pieces or more understated designs, vintage or modern. Conducting this simple research can go a long way in establishing a picture of what kind of engagement ring they will enjoy receiving based on their existing jewellery.

Ring design

Depending on whether they would prefer a classic diamond ring or something a lot more in tune with individual style, it’s worthwhile spending time researching the wide variety of engagement rings on the market. Whether they would like a large emerald ring set in 18ct yellow gold or a single, small solitaire set in contemporary white gold, there’s certainly a decision to be made for specific ring designs.

There are some universally acknowledged steps to consider when it comes to diamond engagement ring design which covers the colour, clarity, cut and carat of the materials used. Once you know your partners preferred jewellery style, these elements should guide you even more to find the perfect engagement ring to propose with.

Colour: Surprisingly, diamonds can have various colours to them. The most valuable is the clear/white diamond which is most often used in engagement rings. Still, there are diamonds with subtle coloured tones and even distinctively powerful colours which are rare.

Clarity: For the most part, clarity can come down to what is seen when a professional jeweller looks at the diamond through a magnifying eyeglass (known in the trade as a loupe) and can be invisible to the naked eye. Tiny feathers or cloud formations in the stone have the potential to affect its ability to reflect light, but they shouldn’t be seen as a fault in the diamond itself.

Cut: There are some standard diamond cuts to consider for a diamond engagement ring which are characteristics that can determine the shape of the diamond and how well light reflects off the stone. Common diamond cuts and shapes include the round cut, princess, emerald, oval and heart shape cuts.  

Carat: Based on traditional standards, the weight and size of a diamond can be measured by a carat which is equal to 0.2gm. The weight is then divided into 100 units called points so that points can then grade the diamond. This is different from the unit of purity for gold which is confusingly also a carat.

It’s a good idea to view potential engagement rings from a reputable jeweller who has the knowledge and eye for detail when it comes to engagement rings to help you decide on the ideal ring. Make a checklist of what is important, including their preferred metal, the cut of diamond or coloured gemstone they would like and of course, your budget aims.

Bespoke engagement rings

Another option when it comes to buying an engagement ring is opting for a custom-made, bespoke jewellery service, like ours here at Miltons Diamonds. This can help you design your significant ring. This means you can have some creative input into the creation of a truly unique engagement ring that suits your partner and is completely distinctive to them. Taking all of the considerations above, you can work with us to create something unique, with an outcome that is truly dream-worthy. 

Alternatively, when you’re confident with your budget and have knowledge of your partner’s jewellery style, take a look through our stunning range of engagement rings at Miltons Diamonds. We have an impressive selection of second-hand engagement rings with beautiful pre-owned engagement rings in top condition on offer, which are sure to appeal to different tastes. Both ranges feature alternative engagement ring designs, from striking solitaire rings to multiple diamond set rings, so you’re bound to choose a piece that they will love. 

Once you’ve got the ring in place, you will want to think about where you’re going to propose. 

Best places to propose

A location that reminds you of a special date or a past trip the two of you have taken may be on the cards. Still, if you’re looking for a sense of adventure, or something memorable then the following spots for make for a  romantic proposal you will never forget. 

Santorini, Greece.

If you are thinking of a beach getaway as part of your proposal plans, why not choose the stunning location of Santorini. With clear blue seas and whitewashed houses, this Greek island makes for the perfect place for popping the question. Pick a spot overlooking the beautiful cliffside homes at sunset for a proposal the two of you will never forget. The best part is, you get to enjoy the rest of your Greek isle getaway,  making memories as a newly engaged couple.

Juliet’s Balcony, Verona.

The spot that inspired one of the most romantic plays ever written could be the perfect place to pop the question. Juliet’s Balcony is situated in Casa di Giulietta, a house that dates back to the 1300s which is now a museum in Verona, Italy. The balcony which features in the well-known tragedy, Romeo and Juliet, is a romantic tourist spot which would make an excellent location for your proposal.

Central Park, New York.

Central Park is a beautiful spot throughout the year. Whether it’s covered in snow in winter or blossoming with flowers in the summer, New York’s famous park is the perfect place to propose to your other half. The ice rink makes a great spot to pop the question over the festive period, or the beautiful Belvedere Castle in the spring is a stunning place to get down on one knee.

Bellagio Fountains, Las Vegas.

Las Vegas is full of potential proposal spots, but one that stands out is the Bellagio Fountains. The world-famous hotel and casino showcases a spectacular fountain show every day and is a truly romantic spot for a proposal. The fountain makes the perfect backdrop for popping the question, and if you are looking for a quick wedding too, you could always walk a few feet down the strip and tie the knot at the Little White Chapel.

The Shard, London.

If you are looking for a proposal spot in London, you can’t go too wrong with The Shard. This 95 storey skyscraper is currently the tallest building in the UK and offers stunning views stretching across the entire city of London. The viewing platform at the top of The Shard is the perfect place to pop the question, and afterwards, you can enjoy a romantic meal a few floors down in one of the skyscraper’s beautiful restaurants.

Edinburgh Castle, Scotland.

Scotland boasts some of the most beautiful castles in the world, and with hundreds scattered across the country, there is bound to be one perfect for your proposal. Edinburgh Castle situated in the heart of the city is a stunning fortress with breathtaking grounds that accompany the castle and is ideal for proposals if you are thinking of Edinburgh for a romantic getaway.

The Northern Lights, Finland.

The Aurora Borealis, otherwise known as the Northern Lights, is a truly fantastic experience that would perfectly accompany a proposal. This natural light show can be viewed from a number of locations, but for a one of a kind getaway, why not choose the adorable glass igloos located in Finland? The ultimate setting for popping that all-important question to your other half.

Hot Air Balloon, Cappadocia.

A trip in a hot air balloon is a truly romantic experience, and Cappadocia in Turkey is the perfect place for an unforgettable balloon ride. You will experience stunning views of the Cappadocia landscape during your flight, including the famous fairy chimneys of Turkey and beautiful vineyards and orchards. A hot air balloon over Cappadocia is the ultimate proposal spot for a moment the two of you will treasure forever.

Hopefully, we have given you enough inspiration to pick the perfect place for your proposal and provided you with enough tips to prepare you for the special day. If you are looking for a ring to pop the question with, you could find just what you’re looking for in our collection of engagement rings and second-hand engagement rings. Here at Miltons Diamonds, you’ll find rings to suit every style and budget. Additionally, if you want to make it extra personal, our bespoke rings make an excellent choice.