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Not to add to the pressure or anything, but your future spouse has been dreaming of this proposal for her whole life. So, you need to get it right.
And to help you avoid any disasters, we’ve compiled a list of the 6 MUST-BE-ANSWERED questions before you pop the question. These are a mixture of questions to ask your jeweler, your partner and yourself
Question 1 Ask: Yourself
What is my budget for my engagement ring?
Knowing your budget is absolutely crucial. Whether it’s a 3-figure number or a six-figure number, you’ll need to know a realistic range of what you can afford. Remember to budget a lower figure, too.
The idea that you should be spending 3x your monthly salary is no longer applicable. It’s an outdated notion, and should now be calculated based on your own financial situation.
Create a budget planner and calculate how much you spend on rent or your mortgage, your living conditions, your bills and how they measure up to your monthly salary plus any savings. You should then have a clearer idea about how much you are able to spend on your engagement ring. Don’t feel pushed into spending every penny of your budget, too. Set a flexible budget on both extremes.
You should also consider buying your engagement ring online, as this will save you money. You can actually save up to 80% on the cost of the diamond by opting for a lab-grown diamond and purchasing via an online store.
Unsure about lab-grown diamonds? Check out our Laboratory Diamonds vs Mined Diamonds post here.
Here at Engagement Designs, our prices are considerably lower than the average $6351 spent on an engagement ring.
Go check out our rings here. Plus, if you’re not getting the right vibe from any of our rings, you can always design your own using our ‘Design Your Own Ring Service’.
Question 2 Ask: Your partner
What kind of rings do you like?
I mean, not quite as upfront as that. You want there to be some element of surprise, right What we’re saying is: you need to know the type of ring that she’s been dreaming of.
We know, we know. That’s easier said than done. When you can’t ask her outright: “what engagement rings do you like?”, it requires a little more detective work.
Firstly, study her jewelry collection. If you’re visiting an in-person jeweler, you can always take them along with you. A professional will be able to infer her style based on her current jewelry.
One of the best things about our Virtual Viewings service here at Jae Brilliant is that you’re able to book a call at a time that suits you, (ie: a time where your partner won’t be around), where you’ll be able to show a member of our team the type of jewelry she usually wears.
(You can book a virtual viewing with us here)
You could also reach out to her best friend. Be warned, though, you need to know the type of best friend she is. If she’s unable to keep a secret, it may be worth talking to her mom, sister or other family member who she’s close to.
We opt for best friends as they’ve probably been discussing this very moment for years.
Question 3 Ask: Yourself
How and when am I going to propose?
If this question feels daunting, please know that it’s completely natural. Planning this proposal is most likely the biggest thing you’ve ever done. And the fact that she’s probably been dreaming of this moment for her entire life adds a load of pressure onto your shoulders.
But, don’t panic! The first thing to remember is: however you propose, she’ll value the question and the consequence of your proposal over the way you choose to ask. The fact that you’re going to get down on one knee and ask her to spend the rest of your life together? That’s what she’ll value most.
The proposal - as in, the way you choose to do it - that’s an extra.
But, we get it. You want to make it the most magical, perfect moment of all time. You don’t need to spend thousands on your proposal, either. In fact, you can create a magical moment without your bank account taking a massive hit.
Question 4 Ask: Your jeweler
Question: Will my ring need to be ‘special-ordered’?
After you’ve found the perfect ring to pop the question, you’ll want to take it home with you that day.
Unfortunately, that isn’t always an option.
Some rings will be available to buy and take home there and then. But, others will need to be custom made for sizing or engraving.
This can take a few months when you purchase from an in-person jeweler.
However, if you opt to buy your engagement ring online, the wait will be considerably shorter.
In fact, when you buy an engagement ring with Engagement Designs, you’ll be waiting a maximum of 10 days after clicking that ‘Buy Now’ button.
Question 5 Ask: Your jeweler
Question: Can I return or modify the ring if it’s not right?
If you’re panicking about picking the perfect ring and your head is clouded with doubts, having the option to return it will come as a massive relief.
Ask your jeweler about the return policy and if the ring is able to be modified or resized.
Your jeweler should make you aware of their process. Some allow you to upgrade the ring after a few years by adding a bit more sparkle. Others, however, don’t allow this.
Resizing is important if you’re guessing her ring size. So, it’s best to ask the question.
Here at Engagement Designs, we offer a 30 day hassle-free return policy if you buy from our existing collection. If you choose to design your own ring, you’ll be given a virtual design to approve as well as a model sent straight to your door, taking the worry of it being ‘incorrect’ away.
Question 6 Ask: Your jeweler
Question: Can I engrave my ring?
You may not want to have your ring engraved. But, it’s worth knowing the services your jeweler provides.
Adding engraving onto your ring shows an extra mile of effort. It makes the ring truly unique to your partner and the relationship you share.
If you choose to engrave your ring, the creative ideas are endless. But, to save you a little time, here’s a list of the things you can engrave:
The date you first got together
The date you choose to propose (although, this is risky! You’ll need to ensure you can definitely propose on this date).
Your initials & your partner’s initials
An infinity sign
A romantic phrase, (eg: ‘to our next adventure’, ‘i love you’, ‘til death do us part’)
‘I love you’ in a different language, (eg: ‘j’taime’, ‘te amo’, ‘我爱你’).
Here at Engagement Designs, we offer an Engraving service. If you opt to become a loyalty member, this is free of charge. Plus, you’ll get product protection and missing stone replacements, making it well worth the $9.97 for the first year.
You can become a loyalty member here.
Time to get shopping!
Once you’ve got the answer to all of these questions, it’s time to go shopping for an engagement ring. Lucky for you, you’re in exactly the right place.
Go and check out our engagement rings collection. And remember, if you’re dying to put your creativity to use, you can always design your own ring using our ‘Design A Ring’ service.
Remember: we’re here to help and guide you along the way. We understand how daunting this shopping spree can be. And we understand the rollercoaster of emotions you’ll feel when browsing through the collection.
So, if you need assistance, get in touch. We’d be more than happy to help guide and assist you in picking the right engagement ring.