Many couples dream about what the day that one of them gets down on one knee might look like. Will it be a hot summer afternoon on the beach or a crisp autumn evening in the woods? Will it be a public spectacle for everyone to see or an intimate ritual shared by just themselves? In this survey, we sought to piece together a picture of the perfect 2021 proposal by asking our respondents all about popping the question. 

Methodology

We surveyed over 1,200 Americans across four days in December 2021 and asked them questions about their ideal proposal setting, their thoughts regarding classic proposal elements like the proposer getting down on one knee, and what parts of a proposal they could do without. Read on to see what we found out!

Setting the Scene for the Perfect Proposal

Competition among the top three proposal locations is fierce, with the beach edging out the first date spot (wherever that may be) by just 0.2%! The third most popular location, the mountains, is then behind the first date spot by just 3.8%. The least popular location is an amusement park, as just 1.7% of our respondents say it’s their first choice. So unless you’re dating the biggest rollercoaster fan in the world, probability suggests that you do not propose at your nearest Six Flags if you’re looking for a “yes.”  

The early bird does not necessarily get the worm when it comes to proposals. While 18.9% of our respondents do think the morning would be a good time to pop the question, the majority would sooner opt for a proposal later in the day. Opinions regarding seasons are a bit less divided, however. Spring and fall are the favorites, with spring beating out fall by a margin of just 1.5%, and then summer is only about 10% behind that. This leaves winter as the proposal season underdog, but with just under 25% of our respondents reporting as pro-winter, it really isn’t that unpopular! 

Americans’ Thoughts on Classic Proposal Elements

If you’ve ever wondered whether a proposal should be agreed upon ahead of time or a surprise, our results tell us that 77% of people prefer a surprise proposal to one that’s previously arranged. This probably doesn’t mean that your partner wants you to propose to them in the grocery store three weeks into the relationship, however! 

Times change, and some evidence of this lies in over half of our respondents agreeing that parental permission is no longer a requirement of engagement. Also, if you go from the oldest generation to the youngest, the opinion on time that couples should be together before marriage becomes more conservative. For example, about 85% of Gen Z thinks that a couple should be together for two years or longer before they get married, while only about 50% of baby boomers think the same. 

It might be best to avoid donning your good pants when you’re planning to pop the question. While a bit of dressing up is surely required, 69% of Americans still think the proposer should get down on one knee, and if you’re proposing in the mountains or your first date took place on a hiking trail, a dirt spot on one of your pant legs might be inevitable. 

Considerations for Planning the Perfect Proposal

There are a lot of different opinions surrounding the specifics of the ideal proposal, so let’s start with the most popular ones: 65% of our respondents think a proposal should take place in a meaningful location. This is likely why 21.7% said the first date location would be their location preference, but even if that’s not where you end up, that 65% is a good indication that the chosen location should have some sort of meaning attached to it. 

Our second highest percentage here is the 56% of our respondents that think what is said prior to the proposal is more important than the question itself, so proposer, make sure you have some choice words ready to go before popping the question! But at the same time, 44% of our respondents think that reading a pre-written speech makes a proposal worse, so just try your best to walk that line between preparation and improvisation. 

36% of our respondents say that a proposal should be seen as an event instead of just a question, which probably explains why almost a quarter also say that they’d like for there to be a party afterward. There’s also a small percentage that would like a photographer to be present (10%), and another small percentage that would want their pets nearby (11%). 

The Not-So-Perfect Proposal

You’ve now spent the last five minutes or so reading all about what people think makes a good proposal, but what do people think makes a bad one?

For starters, over 90% of our respondents are against putting the ring in any food or drink at a restaurant. Perhaps it’s the messiness of it all, or maybe it’s the potential choking hazard? But the biggest takeaway from the entire survey might actually be just how opposed many people are to public proposals. A whopping 90% of our respondents think that public proposals pressure the proposee to say yes, and 56% would hate to be proposed to publicly. And if you want to get specific about the public location, 85% of our respondents say they’d rather be proposed to in a parking lot than at someone else’s wedding. So be careful with public proposals in general, but especially if they’re going to take place at another wedding! 

Closing Thoughts

According to our survey, more than three out of every four Americans would rather propose or be proposed to without parental permission than without a ring. While we can’t guarantee that the future in-laws are going to love you, we can make sure you’ve got the perfect wedding ring for your perfect partner. Shane Co. has a variety of engagement rings in every price range and even the option to buy a ring customized to your loved one’s liking. 

The post An Analysis of the Perfect Proposal in 2021 appeared first on The Loupe.

There’s no question that the holidays make for a great time to propose. Long vacations, gorgeous falling snow, extra time with your sweetie, and warm fireplace chats all make for a dreamy setting that’s just right for romance. In case you’re still looking for ideas, we put together a list of some of our favorite holiday proposals.

1. A surprise photoshoot

Planning to take some cute photos for the holidays? Take advantage of the photographer on-hand and snap your proposal instead. This one works best if you start the photoshoot off in a normal fashion, then get on one knee in between frames. Not only is it guaranteed to surprise your sweetheart, but you’ll have beautiful photos to capture the moment forever.

2. Write it in the snow

For something simple and sweet, spell out “Will you marry me?” in the snow while your partner is busy, then lead them outdoors for a special surprise. Of course, this only works if you’re having a white Christmas.

3. Make it personal

One of the best parts of this season is reminiscing on your favorite childhood and holiday moments together. Take advantage of these meaningful memories by proposing at their favorite teenage haunt, the location of your first date, or another significant spot.

4. Wrapped with bow

While it’s not completely unique, wrapping their engagement ring in a gift box with a big bow and sliding it under the tree is always a good option for a holiday proposal. There’s nothing like watching the joy reach your loved one’s eyes as they unwrap the present of forever love.

5. A sweet serenade

If you and your sweetheart are music lovers, planning a carol proposal might just be the way to go. You can hire carolers to knock on the door and end their song with the big question, or you can write your own song and get into the holiday spirit by singing it to them yourself.

Don’t forget the ring! You can shop over a thousand exclusive engagement ring designs at Shane Co., or take our style finder quiz with her tastes in mind if you’re not sure where to start. You can also book a virtual or in-store appointment to speak with an expert jewelry consultant for help in finding the right ring for her. Luckily, Shane Co. is still shipping everything within 3 days, so you’ll have your ring just in time for a holiday proposal.

The post 5 Romantic Holiday Proposal Ideas appeared first on The Loupe.

Procrastination is common — there’s no need to hide the fact that, sometimes, we just need to get something done at the last minute. If the perfect moment for a proposal has suddenly come up, you’re probably beginning to sweat, wondering how you’re going to buy the ring and plan the big moment in a short amount of time.

If you’re looking to buy an engagement ring on a timeline and a budget, here are Shane Co.’s top three tips for doing it well enough to hear that “Yes!”

1. Consider a solitaire ring

If you’re rushing to plan your proposal, chances are you probably haven’t had the time to really figure out what your bride-to-be’s dream ring looks like. In this case, a solitaire ring may be perfect for you. You can still personalize the diamond by choosing a unique shape or particular size, but you don’t have to worry about the engagement ring setting being different from her idea of “perfect.” Not to mention, a diamond solitaire is an all-around favorite for most brides — she can even add a unique decorative crown later on if she so chooses!

“If you want to surprise your fiancée with a proposal,” Shane Co. experts say, “a solitaire ring is a great option. She can always trade it in and select her own setting with you later. Plus, if you’re working on a tight deadline, buying the less expensive solitaire setting first is a great way to make time for you to save up for a more expensive setting, if that’s what she wants.”

2. Look at preset rings

Our perfectly preset engagement rings are rings that you buy with the diamond already mounted in the setting, as opposed to customizing your ring by choosing the stone and setting separately.

“With a preset ring, you may not get to choose your center stone, but you can get a great quality ring with plenty of carat size in a much shorter time frame,” advises an expert. “With personalized rings, it takes more time because you have to set the stone in addition to sizing the ring, which can take up to 3-5 days.”

Psst! If you order a preset Shane Co. ring online, our 2-day shipping comes free with your purchase.

3. Be bold with a sapphire fashion ring

Does your honey love color? Working on a budget not big enough to get her the diamond of her dreams? Looking for a unique ring that will make for a standout proposal? The answer to all of these issues and more lies in a simple stone: sapphire! With royals and celebs alike sporting their very own sapphire rings, you can be sure your bride will be thrilled with this natural colored stone over a diamond.

“Sapphires are the second most popular center stones for engagement rings … and they’re less expensive than diamonds,” says a Shane Co. expert. But remember: “If you’re on a time crunch, custom sapphire rings take more time to build than preset fashion rings. Look for fashion rings with sapphire center stones that still feel ‘bridal,’ and you can have it shipped to you in a matter of days.”

Other advice for the perfect last-minute proposal

Besides buying the right ring, we have a few suggestions on how to make sure your last-minute proposal doesn’t miss a beat.

Keep it simple

Much like going with a solitaire ring, our best advice for mastering your proposal is to keep it focused on the most important part: you and your partner. You don’t need to have planes spelling out “Marry me” in the sky or an over-the-top plan to pop the question to the love of your life. Pick a comfortable setting and take some time to think about what you’re going to say — why do you want to marry them? What’s your favorite thing about them? What are you looking forward to most about married life? Speak from your heart and you can’t go wrong.

Make it personal

Does your love have a favorite movie or song? A certain spot they love to visit, or a memorable location for the two of you? Using these personal details to craft your proposal plan can make it extra special, even if you don’t have the budget for something extravagant.

Do something different

Try switching up your normal routine to add a little excitement to your proposal. If you usually go out to eat or your partner cooks you dinner, try whipping them up a meal from scratch. If you know an instrument, try writing a little song describing all the things you love about them. There are so many ways to make this night special!

The post Tips for a Last-Minute Proposal appeared first on The Loupe.

2020 has officially become the year of embracing a “new normal.” From Zoom weddings to best-selling albums created completely in isolation, people all around are embracing new traditions and ways of being. The wedding industry is particularly full of traditions and norms, many of them with a long history — including everything from wearing a veil to “something borrowed, something blue.”

Perhaps the most iconic marriage tradition occurs during the engagement: the groom-to-be getting down on one knee and asking his female partner to be his wife. This is a classic scene, likely originating back to the time of knights and dames. Of course, anybody getting engaged today could tell you that this tradition is no longer universal. Not only is there same-sex marriage equality to celebrate, but there is also evidence of some opposite-sex couples reversing the norms of these traditions as well.

According to The Atlantic, 97 percent of grooms in heterosexual couples reported proposing to their brides in 2019. But, the editors at The Knot have also reported an uptick in women proposing to male partners in the stories shared on its sister site HowTheyAsked.com. The editors attributed this to the “ongoing trend of couples riffing on or outright rejecting wedding and engagement traditions in accordance with their own desires.” 

In fact, there’s plenty of reason to believe more women are proposing to men than ever before. A 2018 Pinterest report indicated that the number of people searching for “women proposing to men ideas” jumped 336% from the year prior. 

At Shane Co., we’re all about shaking up traditions in the name of better partnerships. We also love analyzing new trends in the wedding industry, and it’s clear that women proposing to men is going to continue to be a trend! For that reason, we decided to conduct a survey of 3,160 heterosexual American men in June 2020 to ask them their thoughts on being proposed to. 

Our questions covered areas like: 

• Do men want to be proposed to?
• What do men want from their girlfriends in a proposal?
• How do men feel about the ring situation if their girlfriend were to propose to them?

Are you gathering the courage to propose to your man this year? If so, this data is something you don’t want to miss! 

Survey Findings 

Our first survey question was, “How would you feel if your girlfriend proposed to you?” 

Overall, 60.79% of men reported that they’d be thrilled! To get a glimpse at results across the United States, we analyzed the percentage of men who answered positively by state. As it turns out, the state with the most men willing to be proposed to was Washington, according to a whopping 80% of men who live there. Following Washington, the men in Nebraska (78.85%), Wyoming (74.07%), Connecticut (74.51%), Oregon (70.59%), Hawaii (71.15%), and Ohio (70.59%) are the most willing in the nation to be proposed to. 

As with any tradition, some prefer it the old way. The above map indicates the percentage of men who indicated they’d prefer not to be proposed to by state. According to our results, the states with the most men not willing to be proposed to are: Michigan (38.60%), New Hampshire (37.74%), Mississippi (33.33%), Utah (32.00%), Maryland (30.91%), Arkansas (30.77%), Arizona (30.19%), and Rhode Island (29.63%).

So, for the men who do want to be proposed to: how would they prefer the proposal to go down? As it turns out, the vast majority (94.65%) of men would prefer a private proposal over a romantic dinner instead of a public proposal, like in front of a crowd at a sporting event — which is good news for quarantine proposals! 

Speaking of the big moment, we also asked men how they feel about a complete role reversal: her getting down on one knee to pop the big question. Interestingly, 51.68% reported that it wouldn’t be a huge deal, but it might make them feel weird. 26.14% reported that they’d rather she didn’t, while 22.18% indicated that they’d love it. In this case, it might be better to err on the safe side and ask from a standing or sitting position, or another creative way you’ll know he’ll love! 

We know so much about proposals is the build-up and surprise — so how do men feel about being surprised with the big question? 

The majority of men (52.87%) are down for a surprise as long as the two of you have previously discussed marriage. 33.07% are down to be totally surprised, and only 14.06% would always prefer to know it was coming. Most men (62.38%) also don’t think they would feel pressured by a surprise proposal, which is great information to keep in mind while you’re planning your proposal!  

Now, what about the ring? Tradition calls for a man to buy his bride-to-be an engagement ring, and most men don’t wear engagement rings as a result. What about when the roles are reversed? 

According to our results, most men (60.59%) don’t find it necessary for a woman to buy them a ring if they plan on proposing, but wouldn’t mind it (compared to the 14.06% who flat out said no). On the other hand, 25.35% of men think that they should be proposed to with a ring, so if you’re considering it, check out our selection of men’s wedding and engagement bands!

And how about her ring? Well, if you ask men, 53.07% would still aim to buy their girlfriend a ring, even if she was the one doing the proposing. 41.78% said it depended on whether or not she wanted one, and 5.15% said they wouldn’t buy one for her at all. 

Finally, we analyzed some of the social standards around proposals, and asked men how they might feel about them should their girlfriend pop the question. 

The majority of men (71.88%) don’t think they would feel emasculated by a proposal from their girlfriend. However, the tradition that a man proposes to his girlfriend still looms large in their minds. 45.15% indicated that they wouldn’t feel like a big moment had been taken from them, but the majority of men think they’d feel at least a little bit bummed about not being able to propose themselves. 35.84% answered that they wouldn’t mind, but would still wish they could have proposed themselves, whereas 19.01% of men would definitely feel disappointed in not being able to propose themselves.

Wrapping Up

That wraps up our deep dive into men’s opinions about being proposed to! We aimed to gauge general opinions through this survey, and we hope that our findings are helpful in planning the perfect proposal. All in all, every proposal is unique, just like every relationship is. Ready to take the next step with your perfect partner? Check out our personalized rings to pick the perfect ring for them. 

The post Do Men Want to Be Proposed to? appeared first on The Loupe.

Ready to propose, but not sure how to shop engagement rings without your partner finding out? Don’t worry! Whether you live with your partner or not, it’s easy to find an engagement ring that’s perfect for them without ever leaving home.

Use your personal computer

Do you and your partner share a computer or laptop? Do you have one you use for work, and one for play? Well, it’s best to use your personal computer (if you can) to do your online shopping if you’re hoping to keep the proposal a secret. If you both use the same devices, make sure to clear your history so as not to leave any trails for your significant other.

Pick up on hints

If you’re thinking about getting engaged, chances are your partner’s been dropping hints in one way or another. Pay attention to what they say when you watch movies with engagements, jewelry, or weddings in them to get a clue of what they’re interested in. Have they been gushing nonstop about their newly engaged friend’s ring? Do they hate the look of the halo their favorite movie star is wearing? Use these comments to make sure you’re getting them a ring they’ll really love.

Log on to social media

See if your sweetheart is following certain brands or influencers on social media to get a hint on what their engagement ring style is. Do you have access to their Pinterest? Check out pinned rings for more inspiration — or even send them a link to Shane Co. with a note about our Virtual Try-On feature.

Recruit their friends and family

Even if you’re stuck at home, you can still enlist the help of those closest to them when it comes to picking out an engagement ring. Is there a family heirloom they’ve mentioned? If you feel comfortable, share your plans with family members and friends to see if they have any words of advice or suggestions to help you along your shopping journey.

Create a shortlist

Shopping for an engagement ring online can be daunting. With so many options to choose from, how do you find the right one? The best thing we can recommend is to stay organized. Favorite some styles you know she’d love, and when they start stacking up, compile a “shortlist” of your top five or 10. It’s a lot easier to choose from a few styles than thousands. You can also take advantage of tools like Budget Buddy, Shane Co.’s engagement ring calculator, to make sure you’re shopping rings within your budget.

Don’t overthink it

Here’s the kicker: If your significant other loves you, and you love them, chances are they’ll say yes no matter what ring you give them. While you’ll probably end up proposing with an engagement ring that they’ll love, you shouldn’t stress too hard over all the little details. The most important point is that you’re asking your love to spend the rest of your lives together — and there’s nothing more romantic than that.

The post 6 Tips on Secretly Shopping for An Engagement Ring appeared first on The Loupe.

Getting engaged is an exciting event — one that, especially with the influence of social media, can mean you’re jumping through hoops to share the news without hurting anyone’s feelings. Here are a few things to remember when announcing your engagement.

Keep it private

Once you’ve made it official, make sure to consult with your new fiancé about how long you want to keep the news to yourselves. It’s important to take at least a few hours to celebrate this next step in your relationship without feeling stressed out or having to take in the opinions of everyone else in your life. Some couples may even prefer to keep the news quiet for a lot longer — and that’s okay. Remember, it’s your engagement we’re talking about here, not anyone else’s.

Tell those closest to you first

If you’re close to your parents, letting them know about your engagement in person or through a video or phone call should be your first priority. If your relationship with your family is strained, you may choose to let your friends in on the secret before anyone else. In any case, we highly recommend spilling the news to your besties before making it public.

Talk it through beforehand

Are you afraid some of you or your partner’s friends won’t take the news so well? Is your engagement coming right on the heels (or right before) another big event in a relative or friend’s life? Discuss any potential drama with your fiancé before you share the news, so you can make sure to diffuse any potentially awkward situations before they kill your buzz.

Find the right time to post

Once you’re ready to take your announcement public, set aside some time to decide how and when you want to share this exciting update with the world. Posting a pic with your proposal story can save you from having to retell it over and over again, but simply sharing your happy faces with a quick one-liner can do the trick just as well. Make sure you’re posting at a time when being flooded with questions, congratulations, and compliments on your new ring won’t be too much for you — that way, you can take it all in without feeling overwhelmed.

Don’t forget to live in the moment

After sharing your engagement with the world, it may be a good idea to stay off social media for a few days and just enjoy this exciting time. You’ll most likely have some unsolicited wedding advice, opinions on your proposal and ring, and even comments about your relationship once your engagement is made public. While of course much of this will be heartfelt, you may not be ready to jump into wedding planning right away or feel like answering questions when you’re still flooded with feels.

The post How to Tell Your Friends and Family You’re Engaged appeared first on The Loupe.

With the romance of Valentine’s Day quickly approaching, you may be ready to pop the question to your favorite person. Check out these romantic proposal ideas for inspiration!

1. Give a clue

A romantic scavenger hunt will lead your honey to the ultimate surprise: a new fiancé! Start with a box of Valentine’s Day cards, then leave a clue on each one. When Valentine’s Day comes around, tell your partner to follow the trail of cards. The hunt can take them to your first date spot, their favorite coffee place, or simply lead them to different corners around your home. Just make sure the last card leads them to you, where you’ll be waiting on one knee.

2. A heart-shaped box

Use classic candy conversation hearts or chocolate hearts to leave a trail of sweets for your sweetie. When they get to the end, present them with a heart-shaped box with their dream engagement ring inside.

3. Tune in to love

If your significant other listens to the same radio station every morning, call in and ask if you can do an on-air proposal! They’ll be shocked to hear their name, but even more surprised when it’s followed by, “Will you marry me?”

4. Skiing in style

Thinking of taking advantage of the winter wonderland this February? Plan a special ski trip with your love, then pop the question on the lift as you sail over a gorgeous snowcapped landscape. For extra points, have your friends or even a photographer sit in front of you so they can snap photos of the special moment.

5. Wine and dine

There are few people who would say no to a candlelit Valentine’s Day dinner. Keep it simple and propose at the end of an amazing meal — however, we recommend not putting the ring into their champagne or dessert. You don’t want to risk a chipped tooth or lost ring!

6. The pre-trip surprise

Plan a special getaway for you and your future fiancé. Then, instead of waiting until the actual trip to propose (which they might be expecting), mention that you “almost forgot” something before leaving for the airport. After fumbling with your bag, return with the ring — now, your vacation is truly a celebration!

For more creative proposal ideas, check back on The Loupe. You can also shop for the perfect engagement rings on ShaneCo.com.

The post 6 Dreamy Valentine’s Day Proposal Ideas appeared first on The Loupe.

Realizing you’ve found the person you want to spend the rest of your life with is, of course, totally amazing — but it can also bring on fear and anxiety as you begin to plan your proposal. After all, this is a big moment, and you want it to be special for both you and your partner. But how do you know you’re taking the steps to ensure your proposal goes off without a hitch? This helpful guide will point you in the right direction.

What to do before you propose

1. Know you’ll get a “Yes”

Although your proposal will probably be a surprise, you don’t want to ask someone to spend the rest of their life with you if you don’t have a clue how they feel about it. Ideally, you’ll already have discussed the concept of getting married with your partner, even if you haven’t been explicit about the “when” and “how.” If you haven’t actually broached the subject but feel confident you’re both on the same page, then the hardest part of your proposal should be planning it — not worrying if they’ll even want the ring.

2. Consult with their family

While this may not be the case for every relationship, many couples still consider “getting permission” from one party’s parents to be an important step in the proposal process. In modern times, it’s less of an ownership thing and more of a sign of respect to make sure that parents are okay with their son or daughter settling down. Chances are, you already know they’ll be thrilled, and it’s more of a formality than anything else.

3. Pick out a ring

Our favorite part! While the spur-of-the-moment proposal is certainly one way to go, there’s definitely a lot to be said about going the traditional route and proposing with the perfect ring. Make sure you do some research beforehand — pay close attention to her style, ask her friends and family for advice, stealthily figure out her ring size, and maybe even check out her Instagram or Pinterest favorites for ideas. If you’re still not sure what she likes, it’s best to go with a classic style, such as a solitaire or pavé setting. When choosing a stone, round diamonds are also a safe bet — they make up over three-quarters of all engagement ring purchases.

4. Start planning!

Does your fiancé(e)-to-be love a good meal? Are they crazy about the outdoors? Would they prefer to be asked in private or surrounded by their friends? These are all questions you can ask yourself while you start to plan the big moment. Every proposal is entirely personal, so it’s pretty impossible for us to say what they’ll like for sure — just remember that the more customized it is to them and your relationship, the more likely they are to love it. Think about some of your favorite times together and use that as inspiration when you go about your planning.

5. Practice your speech

This isn’t the Oscars — you don’t need to have every word of what you’re going to say planned out. In fact, you’ll most likely get carried away when the moment comes and end up going off-script. But it definitely will help to write down your thoughts, any special memories or favorite things about your partner to have in mind when you pop the question. The last thing you want is to go totally blank when it’s finally time to ask, and practicing what you’re going to say is a sure way to stop that from happening.

6. Strategize for afterward

After you’re officially engaged, we’re willing to bet you and your fiancé will be in a celebratory mood. There’s no need to plan a whole party, but having dinner and some champagne ready, or even having your friends on standby, can make the night feel extra special. You know your partner best and will be able to determine if they’d rather celebrate with just the two of you or go all-out — use your knowledge of them to guide your decisions.

What to do during the proposal

1. Find the perfect moment

Unfortunately, your well-thought-out plans may not always match up with reality. Make sure to remain a little flexible, and don’t rush your proposal just because you’re trying to stick to a strict timeline. You’ll know when it’s time to pop the question because you’ll be able to feel it. Listen to your gut!

2. Get the ring ready

Consider storing your ring in an easily accessible place, such as your coat jacket or the inside of a pair of high socks, for ultimate safekeeping. We highly recommend keeping it in the ring box to avoid any unintentional losses — this is one purchase you want to be extra careful with.

3. Take your time

This is a moment you’ll remember for the rest of your lives, so there’s no need to rush! Hug, kiss, cry, scream — whatever feels right, let yourselves feel it. You may need a while to process all the excitement before you even have a chance to put on the ring or move on to whatever else you have planned for the night. Instead of watching the clock, savor these moments while you can.

4. Be photo-ready

Maybe you hired a photographer to capture the precise moment you got engaged, or maybe you brought along some film to record it yourselves. Either way, you’re going to want some photos to look back on in the years to come. Here’s another tip: If you’re proposing to your girlfriend, you may want to book her a nail appointment that day so her hands are newly painted and exfoliated for the first shot of her engagement ring.

Still unsure of how you’re going to propose? Check out these unique proposal ideas for some inspiration. You can also start proposing with an engagement ring on ShaneCo.com!

The post How to Propose 101: The Guide to the Perfect Proposal appeared first on The Loupe.

At Shane Co., we feel honored to be a part of so many engagements each year. Getting engaged is a huge milestone, and with so many components and decisions leading up to getting engaged, it’s no wonder there are so many traditions surrounding it.

Tradition helps us determine how to act in situations we might not know how to navigate otherwise. They are not set in stone (forgive the pun), however, and often have interesting, meandering histories. Did you know that men kneeling to propose might have originated in the Medieval era with men devoting themselves to their Earthly ideal, often a noblewoman? That’s why it’s so appealing for us to find out what proposals look like today. How many of these traditions have lasted and how many have changed with the times?

We decided to conduct a survey to determine what proposals and engagements look like today in the United States. We surveyed 1,376 married or engaged U.S. adults about what their proposals, from the relationship beforehand to the photos taken after looked like.

Read on to discover our findings! 

Average Relationship Timelines

First, we decided to dive into what relationships, from the first date to the wedding day, look like on a timeline. We asked our participants how long they dated their partner before they got engaged, how long they lived together before their engagement (if they did), and how long their engagement lasted. We then broke down each segment into averages by generation and by sexual orientation. 

So what does the average relationship timeline look like by generation? According to our findings, Gen Xers had the longest relationships before getting engaged, with an average of 25 months or just over 2 years. Couples of the “latchkey generation,” which is noted for its emphasis on independence and individualism, lived together the longest before getting engaged, with an average of 14 months. 

We also found it remarkable how engagement lengths have varied greatly over the generations. Baby Boomers were engaged for less than a year on average, while Gen Xers were engaged for 18 months. Millennials had engagement periods of around 16 months, which is the average overall. We suppose Gen Z will determine whether the average engagement period increases or decreases over time! 

Similarly, we observed differences between the relationship timelines of opposite-sex and same-sex couples. Same-sex couples dated for much longer before getting engaged, an average of 29 months, which, of course, must be considered in the light of marriage equality in the United States. Same-sex couples also had longer engagement periods and lived together longer than opposite-sex couples.

Of course, there are many other reasons engagements and relationships prior to marriage might look different among various couples. We also asked questions about our respondents’ lives when they got engaged; what stage of life were they in when they became affianced? 

Life Around Engagement

As engagements and proposals have changed, so have the lives of those getting engaged. More often than ever, couples may own a home together or have children together before they get engaged. After all, there isn’t one right way to get engaged!

In fact, traditions aside, 47.3% of couples moved in together before they get engaged. Although they tended to live together for a relatively short period (46.7% lived together for a year or less before getting engaged), living together is a noteworthy precursor to getting engaged.

While the majority of couples surveyed did not own a home together before getting engaged, our results indicated that opposite-sex couples (38.1%) were more likely than same-sex couples (31.5%) to close on a house before their wedding day. 

Popping the Question

Picture a proposal in your head. We’d venture to bet the image that comes to mind involves a man on one knee, a diamond ring, and a wonderfully surprised girlfriend. Of course, popping the question has a highly traditional element to it. But are people today following tradition? 

The median engagement age of our respondents was 26, close to the national average of 28 for women and 30 for men. This stat is on trend that the age at first engagement has been steadily increasing for decades. In 81% of couples, the standard picture of men doing the proposing remains accurate, as does the element of surprise, which is still the case in 73% of engagements.   

A feature of 21st-century engagements is their public setting, such as at sports games or concerts. However, the fact remains that 68% of engagements are private, with only 4% of engagements taking place in a highly public manner. 

The Ring

It’s no surprise that at Shane Co., we have a huge interest in the ring part of engagements. Not just in the most popular stone or setting chosen, but the cultural norms that surround them. Historically, it was expected for a male fiancé to purchase a ring, which he gifted to his betrothed for her to wear throughout the engagement period.

Naturally, things have changed over time. 85% of proposals still involve a ring, with 13% of couples splitting the cost of that ring. When you break it down by sexual orientation, 24.8% of same-sex couples and 11.5% of opposite-sex couples split the cost of the ring. 

Shopping for engagement rings has changed too. 60% of opposite-sex couples and 70% of same-sex couples pick the ring out together, instead of one partner choosing for the other. When it comes to getting engaged, however, 53% say the ring doesn’t matter at all, while 6% of people would turn down the proposal if they didn’t like the ring. 

Finally, we decided to take a look at how deeply some popular engagement trends of recent decades have influenced proposals. 

Engagements and Culture

Popping the question is a huge moment. It can be the culmination of months of planning and years of being together. There’s also plenty to consider when it comes to culture and trends: will you ask your partners’ parents’ permission? Will you have a photographer present? Will it be exactly how you and how you envision your partner always wanted?

Interestingly, though only 4% of engagements are fully public, 56% of people reported that they would prefer a public proposal. Even still, only 19% of engagements have a photographer present to capture the moment, although having engagement photos taken after the fact have become increasingly popular with each generation.

Still erring on the side of traditional, 52% of people ask for parents’ permission before proposing. Unfortunately, 22% of respondents stated their proposal was not exactly what they wanted. Luckily that means more than three-quarters of people DO have the engagement of their dreams. 

What About You?

We’d love to hear your thoughts on our survey results, as well as hear about your own experiences with proposals and engagement norms. What did your engagement look like? Did you follow tradition or do something completely your own? Did you have an awesome photoshoot, or are those memories simply left in your head? We welcome your comments and pictures via email (social@shaneco.com) or on social media (@shanecompany).

The post Engagement and Proposal Traditions in the United States appeared first on The Loupe.

The leaves are beginning to change colors, jack-o’-lanterns are being placed on people’s doorsteps, and you finally get to wear that sweater-and-boots combo you’ve been staring at since June. That’s right: Fall is here! Along with the change of the seasons and the thousands of pumpkin spice lattes, autumn brings along a sweet nostalgia and romance that sets the perfect backdrop for a proposal. Here are some of our favorite out-of-the-box fall proposal ideas.

1. S’more romance

A quiet night next to a roaring fire is the ultimate in fall experiences. But before you set your marshmallows ablaze, sticking a gorgeous ring in one and surprising your partner with a proposal is the sweetest way to end the night.

2. Pumpkin play

Carve your proposal into a pumpkin (or two) for a ghoulish way to let them know you want to spend the rest of your life with them. Setting the scene with lots of warm candlelight will ensure a seamless proposal.

3. Lost in love

A popular attraction throughout the autumn months is heading out to explore a corn maze with your sweetheart. For a surprise they’re certain to never forget, get down on one knee and ask for their hand in marriage before making your way out of the maze to celebrate.

4. Wine and dine

Fall is the peak season for many wineries, offering a fantastic opportunity to whisk your partner away for a private wine tasting — you can learn about the grapes, explore the gorgeous setting, and, finally, pop the question with a glass in their hand.

5. Engagement kickoff

For sports lovers, the change of seasons means one thing and one thing only: football season! If your honey is a diehard sports fiend, then proposing at a stadium or even a sports-related event is a fun way to begin your engagement.

6. Sweet simplicity

Doughnuts, apples, cider and more — some of our favorite indulgences are available come fall. So why not keep it simple and propose to your sweetie with the help of a delicious dessert? You can hide the ring in their favorite food or get down on one knee while they’re enjoying a treat. Either way, they’re sure to love this sweet proposal.

Love these fall proposal ideas but still looking for more? Check out The Loupe for all your engagement planning needs. Plus, find out how to know if you’re really ready to get engaged with the help of our blog.

The post 6 Fall Proposal Ideas That Will Get You a “Yes!” appeared first on The Loupe.

What is an engagement?

An engagement, also known as a betrothal or fiancer, is the period of time between a marriage proposal and the marriage. It also encompasses the relationship of the two partners. The length of an engagement may vary from a very short amount of time to many years, depending on the wishes of the couple.

Did you know?

In arranged marriages, it’s common to experience longer engagements, as some couples may be “arranged” to be married long before they are even of marrying age.

How did this tradition get started?

Engagement in European countries is typically traced back to marriage practices written in Jewish law. In this section of the Torah, marriage was composed of two separate acts: erusin, or kiddushin, and nissu’in, or chupah. The first signified what we now know as the engagement period, while the latter was the actual marriage ceremony. The idea of a pre-marriage period became popular in ancient Greece shortly afterward, including the tradition of presenting a ring at the wedding and gifts at the engagement party.

The engagement process

For better or for worse, there are a few steps that go into making a lifetime commitment to your partner, starting with making sure they’re the right person for you.

Step one: Determine if you’re ready for marriage

Before proposing, both parties in a couple should think deeply about what marriage means to them, whether they feel ready for it, and what they want their future marriage to look like. Some couples can be very much in love but not be on the same page about vital issues — or you may be going through different times of your life, causing one member of the partnership to be ready while another is not. Taking time to think about whether you’re truly ready for marriage is an important step in getting engaged.

Step two: Talk with your partner

Discuss all the things that go along with marriage before you ever decide to get engaged. This includes imagining your future life together, your family goals, parenting styles and lifestyle expectations. You will certainly have to compromise on some things — everyone is unique, and there’s very little chance that you’ll agree on everything, but make sure you both figure out what you’re willing to compromise on before entering into an engagement.

Step three: Plan the proposal

Whoever is doing the proposing in the couple should take the time to plan a proposal that means something to their partner. For example, if they hate public displays, then arranging the proposal during a baseball game probably isn’t the best move. Incorporate things that are specific and significant to your relationship, and they’ll be sure to love every moment.

Step four: Shop for a ring

This step is totally dependent on how you want to approach it. Do you already have an idea of what your partner likes? Great — then you’ll probably want to surprise them by shopping for the ring on your own. Not sure what they’ll go for? Ask their friends and family, drop clues, pay attention to what kind of clothes and jewelry they currently wear, or even go shopping together to ensure you’re getting something they’ll love saying “Yes” to.

Step five: Propose to your love!

Once everything is in place, you can finally go through with this life-changing moment. Once you get the answer you’ve been waiting for, it’s time to move on to step six.

Step six: Announce the engagement

Lastly, it’s time to share the good news with your family and friends. It’s traditional to tell the closest members of your inner circle in person (or on the phone, if you don’t live near enough to each other) first before announcing it to the rest of the world. Nowadays, it’s common to post about the engagement on social media to make it officially public.

Other engagement traditions

Asking for your hand

Many people still think it necessary to ask the bride’s parents for their blessing before officially proposing. This dates back to when marriage was less of a “romantic” event, and more of a business arrangement between the two families. This contract was sealed by having the family of the bride agree to allow her to marry.

Down on one knee

The reason why we often get down on one bended knee when proposing to our partner comes from way back in the days of knighthood, when kneeling was considered a sign of respect and loyalty. It was also used during religious ceremonies, which were heavily linked with marriage for hundreds of years. Despite no longer following these customs, the tradition stuck!

Announcing your engagement

The engagement announcement actually comes from Pope Innocent, who, in 1215, decreed that all couples who intended to marry were required to formally announce it. The idea behind this was to give those who disapproved of the marriage-to-be the chance to intervene. This is also where the “speak now or forever hold your peace” moment at the wedding comes from.

Ready to move on to step four? The experts at Shane Co. can help you find the perfect ring, with helpful tools like our MatchMaker and style finder quiz, as well as our dedicated noncommission sales associates. Start shopping for your dream engagement ring at ShaneCo.com, or begin planning the perfect proposal with these helpful proposal ideas.

The post What Does It Mean to Get Engaged? (And How to Get Started) appeared first on The Loupe.

A dream come true

“Jessie and I had a photoshoot planned with the sweetest photographer, who we had done a shoot with in the past. We got to the location, but the wind was blowing like crazy and it was absolutely freezing. Jessie said that his heart was pounding as we moved from location to location, fearing that he wouldn’t find the perfect spot. We finally got to this beautiful cliff overlooking the ocean and I turned around and he was down on one knee! Saying yes to marry Jessie was the best decision I’ve ever made. I can’t wait to marry my sweetheart. He had the perfect ring with the help of a Shane Co. employee and he found the perfect moment.”

Want to see the ring Jenna said yes to?

You can shop this Halo Diamond Engagement Ring with an oval diamond center stone to re-create the look that sealed the deal for Jessie. To see more fashionable halo rings, head over to ShaneCo.com and begin creating the perfect engagement ring for you!

The post Customer Stories: Jenna & Jessie’s Proposal appeared first on The Loupe.

You and your partner are very much in love and you’ve been thinking — maybe even dropping hints — about taking the next step. But how can you feel confident you’re making the right decision, and what indicators should you look for to ensure you’re really ready to get engaged? We’ve read up on interviews with psychologists and relationship experts as well as in-depth studies to figure out how to know you’re ready to pop the question (or say yes).

1. You’ve talked about your finances

It may not be romantic, but knowing where you and your partner stand when it comes to making financial decisions can make a big difference in the health of your future marriage. A poll conducted in 2018 marked money worries near the top of the list for reasons why couples split up, citing arguments over finances as the final breaking point. While money-related stress is hard to avoid completely, making sure you’re on the same page as your partner can make a lot of difference in avoiding financial arguments. What do they consider a “big” purchase? Are they saving up for a car, home or business? How will you divide financial obligations, and do you plan to have your bank accounts separate, joint or both?

Before deciding if you’re ready to get engaged, you should be comfortable with your partner’s answers to these questions and more. Remember to be honest with one another about not only your current financial state, but also your goals for the future and what you value — for example, if you love fashion, while you may think buying a $200 coat is a worthwhile purchase, your partner may not understand why it’s worth that much. Be patient, and avoid getting upset about the bigger things by making money a regular part of your conversation.

2. You know how to fight fair

Every couple fights — but do you and your partner know how to fight constructively? The Early Years of Marriage Study looked at 373 couples over a 16-year period, starting at the very first years of their marriages to discover why some couples stuck together while others broke apart. As it turns out, couples in which both parties used constructive methods of fighting (staying calm, focusing on communication, avoiding withdrawing or giving “the silent treatment” as a way of dealing with conflict) had lower divorce rates than couples who didn’t. It really comes down to this: There’s no such thing as “winning” an argument with your spouse. Having respect for your partner and remembering that even when you fight, you’re still on the same team, is incredibly important when deciding to take the next step in your relationship.

3. You have realistic expectations about your relationship skills

Understanding your partner’s and your strengths and weaknesses is a huge part of feeling confident that you will be able to build a life together. One study in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that marital satisfaction is highest in couples whose expectations matched their relationship skills — even if their skills rated higher than their expectations. Having expectations that are too high can lead to disappointment, while having low expectations can mean you never actually get to practice and appreciate the relationship skills you are best at. The idea that you know what to expect when it comes to marriage goes along with knowing your partner. Make sure you’re well aware of what areas of domestic life you both excel at, and how this will work realistically within your marriage before you decide if you are ready to get engaged.

4. You say thank you

There will be moments in your marriage, and even in your engagement, where you may not feel like your relationship is at its best. Having a partner that you know respects and appreciates you is very important when it comes to maintaining a happy life together. Research done by the University of Georgia shows that expressions of gratitude are one of the most consistent predictors of marital quality. While all relationships will face difficulty, “gratitude can help promote positive marital outcomes,” says the study’s lead author, Allen Barton. Be aware of how often you and your partner say thank you, and ensure that gratitude is flowing freely when figuring out if it’s time to buy that ring.

5. They’re your best friend

When you receive news, good or bad, is your partner the first person you wish to share it with? Marriage experts continually stress the importance of enjoying the time you spend with your spouse and considering them not just a romantic partner, but also a friend. “The foundation of a good marriage is a good friendship and sharing things with each other is a big part of that,” licensed marriage and family therapist Nicole Richardson states in an article for Elite Daily. So before you consider tying the knot, think about your relationship with your significant other. If you “look forward to waking up with your partner and seeing them at the end of day,” relationship therapist Dr. Gary Brown says, then you’re probably on the fast track to getting engaged.

6. You want it for all the right reasons

There are plenty of reasons to get engaged that don’t involve the love you share with your partner. Feeling pressure from friends and family, being together in order to give off a good “image,” seeing those around you frequently getting married, or trying to deal with problems within yourself by tying the knot can all be enticing reasons to consider marriage — but none of them is the right one. Having a genuine admiration and respect for your spouse and wanting to make your relationship more permanent should be the underlying reasons for considering marriage, even if you’re feeling left out by the plethora of engagement announcements sounding off in your periphery.

7. You speak the same “language”

One of the most popular books about relationships, discussed by psychologists and skeptics alike, is Dr. Gary Chapman’s “The Five Love Languages.” In it, he lays out a model for how we give and receive love, saying that we all have a primary love language that reflects within our relationships. These languages include gift giving, quality time, physical touch, words of affirmation, and acts of service. While it’s not necessary to have the same “language” as your partner, you should already be paying attention to what language they use to give love, as this is generally how they like to receive it, too. You and your spouse should be aware of what matters most to one another — maybe you need to hear the words “I love you” often, while they need a lot of intimacy and touch to feel wanted in the relationship. Knowing how you both give and receive love will keep you from feeling underappreciated as you move forward in your journey to engagement.

8. They make you a better person

Getting engaged means you’re pledging to spend forever with your one and only. So one of the most important questions you can ask yourself before putting on that ring is “Does my partner bring out the best in me?” Life coach Kali Rogers stated in an interview with Bustle that “it’s really not about them. It’s all about what kind of person you are, become, and feel like when you’re in their presence. Love should bring forth confidence and security.” If you feel like you are truly embracing the “real you” when you’re with your partner, then it may be time to get engaged.

The post How Do You Know When You’re Ready to Get Engaged? appeared first on The Loupe.

You finally found the one — your other half, your perfect partner, the person you want to wake up and share a coffee with. You feel ready to take your relationship to the next step, and that means a proposal is in order. But how can you keep it creative when so many amazing proposals have already been done? Try out one of these unique proposal ideas to ensure you get the “Yes” you’ve been dying to hear.

1. Make it digital

For the tech-savvy future fiancé, create a website that doubles as a proposal. This could include photos of you and your partner, videos, links to your favorite memories, and finally the big question at the center of it all. Leave a note on their desk or email them a link telling them to check out this cool site and be ready with the ring when they say yes.

2. Fridge surprise

Spell out “Will you marry me?” in refrigerator magnets for a cute but low-key unique proposal idea. The next time they go in for a snack, they’ll find something even better.

3. Be a bookworm

Does your honey love to read? Try writing a poem with a proposal at the end, or hollow out a book and hide the ring inside. When you ask them to turn to a specific page, they’ll love seeing a diamond there instead!

4. Director’s cut

Re-enact a romantic scene from their favorite movie — for example, if they love “Say Anything,” wake them up with a boom box serenade outside their window. It’s a fun and easy way to let them know you know them inside and out.

5. Artistic touch

Meet with a caricaturist before heading out for a stroll around town. Then, when you coincidentally run into them, have them draw your portrait with a speech bubble saying “Will you marry me?” coming out of your mouth, and one that says “Yes!” coming from your partner’s. When the artist turns the picture around to show them, get down on one knee and make it official.

6. Pick-up plan

If you’re in a long-distance relationship and looking to move on to the next phase, hold up a sign at the airport the next time they visit. Have your last name and “Mrs.” or “Mr.” in front, or keep it classic with a traditional “Marry me.” Either way, they won’t be expecting this warm of a welcome.

7. Spell it out

For a unique proposal idea for word lovers, challenge your sweetheart to a game of Scrabble that you finish by spelling out “Will you marry me?” on the board.

8. Snap a pic

Try a photo booth proposal. While the camera is snapping pics, take out the ring box and catch their real-time reaction in a series of photos you’ll treasure forever.

The post 8 Unique Proposal Ideas appeared first on The Loupe.

Meet our couple

Leamon is a native Georgian and lived in Savannah until he enlisted in the U.S. Army after graduating high school. Post‐military, he obtained his degree in Respiratory Therapy at Armstrong State College, and then worked for St. Joseph’s Hospital for 22 years before moving to Tampa, Florida with a previous partner. After that relationship ended, he met David and was eventually courted by the Kennestone Hospital. They moved to Georgia together and currently live with their three dogs and two cats.

David was born and raised in Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania. Growing up in the Pocono Mountains led to an outdoorsy childhood, filled with biking, skiing, canoeing and more. He attended college at the University of South Florida in Tampa. Throughout college, David worked as a bartender/waiter and volunteered with the Tampa Bay Beagle Rescue – that’s how he ended up adopting the three dogs he and Leamon live with today. Nowadays, he loves rollercoasters, hiking, and adventuring with his fiancé, both in and outside of Kennesaw.

How did you two meet?

David: Lea and I met while we were both living in the Tampa Bay area. We met online and spoke over the phone a few times before meeting on May 29, 2016. We set up a date at Buffalo Wild Wings since it was right next to my job and I was working long hours in sales over the Memorial Day weekend. I almost cancelled from being so exhausted from a tiring day, but I didn’t want to miss out on the chance to meet this great guy.

After meeting, we began talking as if we had known each other forever. We were there for over two hours when the waitress told us that the kitchen was closing soon. We were so into each other that we forgot to eat! Our adventure had begun. Over the next few months, we got to know each other better, sharing our love of rollercoasters, shopping and our mutual joy of cooking.

What is your favorite thing about him?

Lea: I would have to say that my favorite thing about Dave is his dry, smart wit and quirky ways. And that I don’t have to have a calculator out when he is around, as he is like a human calculator!

What are you looking forward to most about married life?

Lea: I’m looking forward to nourishing our marriage and standing beside one another. I know we won’t always agree, but we respect each other and still love each other and have that spark like we first did on May 29, 2016. And that when the time comes that we no longer occupy this earth, we meet again so that we can do this all over!

Were you surprised when he popped the question?

David: Lea proposed while we were out to dinner on the second anniversary of our first date. As you probably noticed by the picture we originally submitted, I was totally surprised and of course said, “Yes!”

How did you plan the proposal?

Lea: I knew I wanted to make Dave my everlasting partner many months prior to the engagement. I knew that the person who sat beside me in the emergency room and rubbed my back while I was writhing in pain from a kidney stone was the man who was seeing me at my worst, who was genuinely concerned, and who would be there for anything else. He was overwhelmed when I got down on one knee, put my hand into my pocket, took his hand and asked him to marry me.

Meanwhile, I was so nervous the entire evening leading up to then that I went several times to the bathroom because I was either checking on the ring to make sure all the diamonds were there or hoping I would stop being nauseated (nervous jitters) and not look like a scared deer in headlights all evening. I made reservations a week before at the Sun Dial Restaurant at the Westin Downtown Atlanta. They asked if it was for an occasion and I told them the entire setup for the night, including what we wanted to eat. They put us with the BEST and loveliest waitress who had been there for a generation. She made sure that we were taken care of and asked to use my phone to take pictures.

What did you like most about your wedding?

David: The original plan was to get married at the courthouse and save our money for our honeymoon in New York City. Lea’s cousin is an ordained minister, though, and she offered to marry us. Our families saw her offer on Facebook and insisted that if there was going to be a wedding, they wanted to be present for it. So, with only a couple months before our planned date of October 25, 2018, we began planning a wedding. There were no venues available that we liked, so we decided that we would hold the ceremony in our front yard, as it is beautifully landscaped.

Our special day came, our families and friends gathered and we started the next chapter of our adventure as a married couple and I took Lea’s last name as my own. Nearly eight months later, I find myself more in love with Lea than I ever could have thought was possible. He truly is my soulmate and the love of my life.

Lea: What we looked forward to most about our wedding was that it would be small with a fun party. We knew that only those that meant something to us would attend and that we would just be “us” and not be over‐dramatic and exhausted from all the work getting up to that day.

How did you tell your friends and family that you were engaged?

Lea: I told my mother ahead of time this was going to happen. I called Dave’s sister and told her that I was going to propose and I told our neighbors who are good, close friends of ours. Then, at 9:25pm, the rest of social media found out!

How did you pick out your rings?

David: When we first bought our wedding rings from Shane Co., we were on a tight budget, but Lea saw a ring that he loved. It had blue sapphires in it with a Celtic design, which represented his Scottish heritage. It wasn’t in our price range, but I saw how much he wanted it, so I got a plain comfort band and added more money to get him what he really wanted. Of course, now that I work for Shane Co., we’ve both upgraded our rings. Lea took a family diamond and had it set into a ring setting while I wore the sapphire ring for a while until I upgraded to my current diamond band.

What does love mean to you?

Lea: Love to me is faithfulness, friendship and loyalty to the person one chooses as his partner and spouse. Love is not material wealth but wealth of helping one another and making sure our needs are being met.

When did you start working at Shane Co.?

David: Lea and I were already engaged when we came to Shane Co. to shop for our wedding rings. It was late September of 2018 and we were out running errands when we drove past the Shane Co. store. Lea noticed the sign and we both started quoting the commercials and decided to go in. We were given the full Shane Co. first‐class service. Our salesperson, Aaron, was extremely helpful and made the whole experience easy and comfortable. I had noticed a sign in the lobby saying that they were hiring when we first came in, and after we finished paying for our rings, I asked Kelly Ray what experience I would need to work here. He explained that he had worked there for over 20 years and that the company would teach me all I needed to know about jewelry.

I was so impressed with how professional the staff was, the fact that we were not pressured the way one is at other jewelry stores, and our overall experience, I told Lea this was a place I would feel proud and confident to work for. When Lea and I got home, I immediately went online and filled out an application. A couple days later, I came back to pick up our rings and spoke briefly with Neomi Love‐West about how happy Lea and I were with our rings and my desire to work there. I spoke with the recruiter, interviewed and was working here two weeks later. My first day was October 15th.

The post Customer Stories: David and Leamon’s Engagement appeared first on The Loupe.

At Shane Co., we feel lucky to be a part of such a special day in so many couples’ lives. Hearing our customers’ engagement stories reminds us of the importance of love and companionship and the many meaningful moments along the way. Getting engaged is a big step, but finding the perfect ring is only the beginning, which is why we’re highlighting some of our customers’ love stories and sharing them with the world.

Karrie and Casey are an incredible couple that have had to defy long-distance odds to start planning their life together. We asked them about their journey and how they ended up at Shane Co.

Who are Karrie and Casey?

Karrie is originally from Southern California. She moved to sunny Colorado eight years ago and currently lives with their eight-year-old and four-year-old. She works in the mental health field and focuses on helping people find recovery and treatment across the nation. She’s studying to become a personal trainer, though her dream is to start a food truck company with her now-fiancée, Casey. They have two dogs: a Chihuahua named Rocky and a French bulldog named Frankie. 

Casey is an East Coaster from a small town in Connecticut. She grew up with her eccentric Italian family, working in her family’s restaurant before moving to Colorado seven years ago to finish school. Last year, she opened a private practice focusing specifically on providing mental health/addiction services to the LGBTQ+ community. She was offered a job in Thailand shortly after meeting Karrie and just couldn’t pass up the opportunity for new adventures and experiences. She is now the primary therapist at an LGBTQ+ treatment center in Chiang Mai. Karrie and Casey’s dog, Frankie (a.k.a. Meatball), lives with her, while Karrie and the kids remain in the United States. She shares Karrie’s vision of opening up a food truck and sharing her family’s recipes with the world.  

Q: How did you two meet?

Casey: It was a Friday night in July. I went to see my friend perform in a play. After the performance, he said, “I want you to meet a couple of my friends.” I met Karrie and she blasted me with information! She asked me so many questions that I left thinking, “What just happened?” On the drive home I thought, well, she’s attractive but probably off limits. My intentions were strictly business … little did I know …

Karrie: Our story is quite dreamy! Honestly, it was love at first sight for me. We had a mutual friend that was in a play, but we didn’t know each other yet. As the play began, the stage lights lit up the first row of seats and I happened to glance over and see Casey. I remember saying to myself, “Wow, she is strikingly gorgeous!” I couldn’t stop looking at her big, beautiful eyes and incredible smile. At the end of the play, she ran up and hugged our mutual friend. I began to introduce myself, talking a mile a minute with excitement. We ended up meeting for coffee a few months later and our love story began.

Q: What is your favorite thing about her?

Casey: I mean, I think I’m hilarious, but Karrie’s catching up to me. I love her humor.

Karrie: My favorite thing about Casey is she has this positive, infectious energy that I instantly felt the moment I met her. She wears a smile and loves to laugh as much as I do!

Q: What are you looking forward to most about married life?

Casey: I was trying to think of something sappy, but honestly just the little things … coffee in the mornings, cooking dinner at night, venting about work, singing in the car, traveling around the world and just laughing our asses off.

Karrie: I’m looking forward to the ordinary and simple things in everyday life. I’m really looking forward to cooking, cleaning, shopping and walking the dogs together. I can’t wait to go on weekend dates to the movies and out to dinner. Most of all, I can’t wait to fall asleep and wake up next to her.

Q: Where do you see yourselves 10 years from now?

Casey: Ten years from now, I’ll be planning Karrie a surprise 50th with all of her friends and family … and lots of tacos.

Karrie: I see us either living in Hawaii or outside of the country and traveling the world together. We’ll have our own businesses and continue to discover, grow and create an adventurous life together for us and the kids. We would like to write a book together as well.

Q: What does “love” mean to you?

Casey: To me, love is a choice and I choose Karrie every day.

Karrie: Love is when you want your partner to be joyous and free to evolve, change and discover what truly makes them happy. Love is when you respect and rely on one another for support, but you don’t lose your own identity.

Q: How did you know you were ready to get engaged?

Casey: I’ve never met anyone like Karrie. Things just fit — she sees me. And have you seen her? Fire!

Karrie: I knew I was ready to get engaged because I couldn’t imagine doing life without Casey. I knew Casey was my person when she encouraged me to truly accept and love myself. She encouraged me to be vulnerable, honest and authentic, while still unconditionally loving all the dark and bright parts of me.

Q: Were you surprised when Karrie popped the question?

Casey: Yes and no. We had talked about marriage. I was actually going to ask her to marry me, but she beat me to it.

Q: How did you plan the proposal?

Karrie: I started working on different ideas a few months before my trip to Thailand. I wanted it to be outside and captured at our favorite time of day, the “Golden Hour” just before the sun goes down. We drove up to a cute mountain town called Pai and stayed at the Quarter Boutique Hotel. I had photographers waiting in a garden and got down on one knee while she sat on a cute little bench. We had a private dinner in the garden as well. I wanted to incorporate a Thailand tradition, so I had us light up wish lanterns and release them.

Q: What was your favorite thing about the proposal?

Casey: My favorite thing was she planned everything from the other side of the world and it was flawless. Every time I turned around, there was another surprise.

Q: What are you looking forward to most about the wedding?

Casey: The endless amounts of pizza, tacos, doughnuts, dancing, karaoke and so much love in one room!

Karrie: We’ve discussed planning a private ceremony in Italy, which I’m really excited about. I’m also really looking forward to celebrating with her family in Connecticut. I can’t wait for karaoke, dancing and laughs.

Q: What advice do you have for couples that are thinking about getting engaged?

Casey: I think Karrie getting a photographer was the best idea ever. They captured everything!

Karrie: Just make sure you always do what works best for the two of you. Don’t worry about what other people think or outside opinions.

Q: What made you choose Shane Co.?

Karrie: Casey sent me a few pictures of rings she really liked. I looked up what company made her first choice and it was Shane Co. I really loved the five-stone setting and the design reminded me of Casey’s style.

Q: What was your favorite part of the shopping experience?

Karrie: My favorite part of the experience was my salesperson, Mitchell Richards! The store was super busy because it was just two days before Valentine’s Day. I walked in and people were waiting in line. I walked around and happened to find the exact ring Casey had picked out. Mitchell approached me and asked if I wanted to see the ring before beginning to explain the design, saying that my boyfriend would love it. I corrected him and said it was actually for my girlfriend. Mitchell didn’t waver or change his enthusiasm and was super supportive! He started to ask about Casey and the proposal. I explained that she lives in Thailand and I had set up an epic engagement in the mountains of Chiang Mai. He began to tell me about the owner, Tom Shane, and how he is often in Thailand and imports many of his gems from there. The connection blew my mind. Mitchell’s knowledge and passion about Shane Co. and his sincere interest in our engagement truly made the whole experience so memorable and exciting.

Q: What do you love about your ring?

Casey: I love wearing my ring, partly because I thought this day would never come. One of my favorite parts of the ring is that it’s simply me. The five diamonds represent each one of us in the family: my fiancée, Karrie; myself; daughter, Lila; son, Holden; and, of course, our dog, Frankie.

Q: Do you have any ideas about what your ring will look like?

Karrie: I’ve looked at a few styles and I’m leaning toward either a cushion or radiant halo diamond design.

Q: Are you going to shop for Karrie’s ring together?

Casey: Shop together? Of course! However, I want to surprise her.

Karrie: Right now, we can’t shop together because Casey is still in Thailand. However, I’m visiting her again in June, so maybe that’s something we can look at together to get ideas. I wish there was a Shane Co. store in Thailand!

The post Shane Co. Customer Stories: Karrie and Casey’s Engagement appeared first on The Loupe.

We’ve rounded up just a few of our favorites to pass along a little proposal inspiration for anyone who may be thinking about popping the question. Congratulations to all of these Shane Co. couples!

“Glad I get to spend the rest of my life with this beautiful woman.” – Zack F.

“My fiancé proposed at the same place as our first date, where he asked me to be his girlfriend, and where we said ‘I love you’ to each other. In just a few weeks, we’re moving into our home we built together in that same location!” – Trammie N.

“SHE SAID YES! On our five-year-and-one-day anniversary of our first date to the Indiana State Fair, I asked Kennedy to be my wife at the top of the Ferris wheel. I can’t wait to start the rest of my life with you, Ken!” – Evan K.

“It was an oddly warm Saturday in September. My now-fiancé and I had a hike planned at Taylor’s Falls. We love to be active and enjoy nature, so this day was nothing out of the ordinary (or so I thought). We walked and talked and enjoyed the beautiful day until we came to a clearing where we could see across the river. Taji wandered a short distance over to a large rock where we could have a better view and told me to come and see. As I was admiring the landscape, he had laid out a blanket and was in the process of getting down on one knee. When I turned around and realized what was happening, I was in COMPLETE shock. I started crying tears of pure joy and total surprise, as I had absolutely no idea that it was coming. After the proposal, Taji drove me to a park where about 40 of our closest friends were waiting to celebrate with us. I could not imagine a better proposal, and I’m so glad he had photographers there to catch the special moment so we can always relive the excitement from that day!” – Kendra J.

“Vinny surprised me with a tattoo proposal. He is a tattoo artist and took me to the shop that day and said I was going to tattoo him for my first time ever! He pulled up his pant leg and this is what I was going to tattoo! I was so surprised. I’m in love with my pear-shaped ring!” – Brooke W.

The post Proposal Ideas appeared first on The Loupe.

Just hearing the word may make your hands shake, but don’t worry. We created a cheat sheet with the necessary steps to plan the proposal of her dreams.

Decide if you’re ready for marriage.

And if she’s ready too. Marriage is a two-way street and both involved should be on the same page. It’s the commitment of a lifetime and is not something to take lightly. If the thought of buying a house together or even possibly having children together excites you, then it’s time to propose.

PRO-TIP: Don’t propose just because you’re feeling pressured. There is no set time frame. Propose when the time is right for you.

Choose the perfect ring.

Before you propose, it’s important to have the symbol of engagement itself — a sparkling engagement ring. Choosing the right ring depends on the personality and style of your significant other. Setting your budget depends on you. Each of our engagement rings and center stones is sold separately, letting you personalize a ring that she’ll love while sticking to a budget that’s right for you. Scroll through her Pinterest to find styles of rings she may be pinning, or casually drop into a Shane Co. store “just to look.” Remember, we’re here to help!

PRO-TIP: For 5 ways to build the perfect (and affordable!) engagement ring, click here.

Ask for permission.

While this may seem a bit old-fashioned, a study conducted by The Knot revealed that only 19% of women said that the guy should skip this step in the proposal process ― that leaves 81% left to say it’s a must-do. Family is important. Good graces with the parents will lead to a good relationship with your future in-laws.

PRO-TIP: If she’s not close to one of her parents, make sure you ask permission from who’s most important to her. Whether it’s her mom, dad or even an aunt or uncle, take the time to build that relationship and respect.

Pick the perfect location.

Whether it’s the place you had your first kiss, the top of the mountain on your favorite hike or simply in your living room, choose a location that has meaning. Once you pick the place, the rest of the planning will come naturally.

PRO-TIP: Understand that public proposals aren’t for everyone. Choose a place by anticipating her initial reaction.

Don’t forget to kneel when you pop the question!

It’s necessary to plan what you want to say, but don’t forget to end with the question that says it all — “Will you marry me?” Don’t let the nerves get the best of you in this moment. Make sure to place one bended knee on the ground, as tradition would have it, and make eye contact. The sincerity of your speech (and the sparkling ring) will be more than enough to make her say “yes.”

PRO-TIP: Practice what you want to say in front of a mirror before the big day. Practice makes perfect and will help build confidence.

Photos courtesy of Jennifer Elle Photography.

The post How to Propose in 5 Easy Steps appeared first on The Loupe.

Ask Her on the Beach

There’s almost nothing more beautiful than an ocean backdrop, so why not ask the big question on a beach trip? After she says yes, you can celebrate with a bottle of Champagne and watch the sun set over the water.

Pop the Question under Fireworks

Who doesn’t love watching fireworks? Grab a blanket and pack some sweet treats to enjoy together. Right before the grand finale, ask her to marry you and the spectacular fireworks will go off after she says yes.

Surprise Her on a Camping Trip

You just can’t beat the smell of crisp, clean air and the beauty of nature all around you. If you both enjoy the outdoors, take a camping trip together and surprise her with a sparkling ring! You could ask her during a daytime hike or under the starry sky after a fun day together.

Give Her a Thrill up in the Air

A hot air balloon ride is already a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Make it even more memorable by surprising her with a romantic proposal during your adventure. After the balloon is high in the air and you are marveling at the view, turn to her and pop the question. This one is sure to take her breath away!

The possibilities for a summer proposal are endless. Take the time to make sure the moment is meaningful, and there is no way she won’t be knocked off her feet. Of course, there’s no proposing without her dream engagement ring! If you still need “the one” to make her proposal absolutely perfect, head to your local Shane Co. or ShaneCo.com!

The post Summer Proposal Ideas appeared first on The Loupe.

1. Ask her at a Christmas tree farm. This can be a festive and cozy place to propose. Bring a picnic blanket, have some lunch and ask her to marry you in front of her favorite tree.

2. Wait for a snowy day! If you want to keep it simple and private and you don’t have a specific date in mind, wait for a snowy day. There’s nothing more magical or romantic than playing in the snow together, and she won’t question you when you bring up the idea after you wake up to fresh snow.

3. Do it at the dinner table. At a dinner or get-together, go around the room and have each person say something they’re thankful for or hopeful for in the new year. When it’s your turn, surprise your love (and her whole family) with your big question!

4. Have her open the ring box under the Christmas tree. As obvious as this might sound, you’ll still surprise the jingle bell out of her when she opens an engagement ring from under the tree. Make sure you wrap it in a larger box so it doesn’t resemble the size of a ring box, and have her open the special gift smack dab in the middle of present opening.

5. In the middle of a photo shoot. A lot of families take the opportunity to do a group photo while everyone is together for the holidays. Make a few signs that say “Will you marry me?” and ask people from the group to hold them up while the photographer takes the photo. Have the photographer show the photo to everyone for “approval,” and when she looks at it on the screen, she’ll see everyone holding the signs and be shocked when you get down on one knee seconds later.

There you have it! Feel free to modify these ideas, combine them or put your own unique twist on top. There are so many ways to incorporate the magic of the holidays, so get creative! Head over to HowHeAsked for more holiday proposal inspiration, and specifically Christmas proposal ideas too! And good luck!

The post Holiday Proposal Inspiration from a Pro appeared first on The Loupe.

1. Light Up Her Life

Put those holiday lights to good use this year! Ask a few friends and family members to help you spell out “Marry me?” on the roof, and then watch her jaw drop as she walks up to the house and someone flips the switch!

2. Have Fun with a Countdown

Did you have an advent calendar growing up? Who doesn’t love the fun holiday tradition of opening a small door or drawer every day from December 1^st through the 25^th and finding a little gift inside? Buy one of the reusable calendars that doesn’t come pre-filled, add a cute little gift for each day, like a piece of chocolate or a love poem, and then hide her engagement ring behind door 25. She’ll never suspect that special gift!

3. Trim the Tree

There are two ways you could execute this proposal idea. One idea is to get up during the night and redecorate your Christmas tree in preparation for the big proposal. Add ornaments that have to do with your relationship, like pictures of the two of you, or trinkets with important dates on them. Last but not least, slip the ring into a clear ornament for her to find. The second idea involves completely un-decorating the tree. That’s right, strip the tree bare! In place of all the previous decorations, hang up just one: her ring! Believe us, it will make for a Christmas morning to remember!

4. Take a Sleigh Ride for Two

Another great thing about the holidays is that horse-drawn sleighs and carriage rides are plentiful! What’s more romantic than a winter sleigh ride for two? Call the carriage company ahead of time and arrange to meet for a “spontaneous” spin around town when you and your love are out and about. Get all snuggled into your carriage, and when she least expects it, pull out that ring! By the way, you’ll get bonus points for this one if you manage to do this while it’s snowing.

5. Play Santa

Santa’s known for giving presents, so why not use him as a clever ruse to hand her that wrapped ring box without her expecting a thing? Rent a Santa costume and then come into a family gathering or party with a big bag of presents. Hand them out to everyone, and save the best gift for last. As she opens it, you’ll get down on one knee.

Of course, there’s no proposing without her dream engagement ring! If you still need “the one” to make her proposal absolutely perfect, head to your local Shane Co. or ShaneCo.com!

The post 5 Creative Holiday Proposal Ideas appeared first on The Loupe.

1. Propose at the End of a Hay Maze

Hay mazes pop up all over the place during fall, and they’re a blast. Have a few of your girlfriend’s friends plan a day trip to one nearby. You’ll obviously go too, but she won’t know it. When she finds herself wandering toward the maze’s finish line, she’ll never expect you to be there on one knee! Tip: If you hire a photographer, tell the maze’s staff what you’re up to and ask if a photographer can climb on top of a hay barrel to capture it.

2. Carve “Will You Marry Me” into Your Pumpkin

This is also a great way to turn a fall activity into the surprise of her life. If you’re not the craftiest, you can have someone else carve the pumpkin and then in the middle of your carving session together, swap their pumpkin in for your own when she’s not looking. When the big reveal comes, she’ll be shocked.

3. Propose at Friends-giving

A lot of women want their friends and family included in the proposal. If that sounds like your girlfriend, have someone in your friend circle suggest a Friends-giving the week before actual Thanksgiving. Ask everyone to bring a dish and then have each person name their dish something special from your relationship. If you met in college, have one of the dishes be named “University of Texas.” If your first date was at a pub, have a second dish be named “The Pub.” A crafty friend (or someone on Etsy) might be able to make adorable name cards. When she walks in and starts reading what each of the dishes are named, she’ll become overwhelmed with emotion! That’s when you can get down on one knee and pop the big question!

4. Holiday Photo Shoot

Most women would jump at the opportunity to do a photo shoot. If you suggest one for Christmas cards, she’d never suspect you had a little something extra to capture in the middle of it.   Want more marriage proposal ideas? How He Asked can certainly help you with that!

The post Fall Proposal Ideas appeared first on The Loupe.

That being said, one big hurdle you have when you’re planning your proposal is to actually, truly, seriously surprise her. Here are some ways to do that.

1. Make “plans” for you or her and give her specific details about said plans.

Example 1: Tell her you have a work event that evening. Tell her that “so-and-so” is going to be speaking (“remember the VP I told you about that has the triplets… he’s the one speaking”).

Example 2: Have a friend plan a sorority sister brunch (or something). I would try to have a not-so-close friend suggest the plans and then have a closer friend encourage that they go together.

2. Go to the mall a day or two before, pass by a jeweler and suggest you look around so you can “get to know her taste.”

At this point, you already have the ring in your desk at work. This strategy is definitely a bit risky but if you can keep a straight face, it can really throw off the timing of her expectations. She’ll be shocked when you pull out the most beautiful ring she’s ever seen a mere two days after she convinced herself you obviously hadn’t even started shopping yet.

3. Tell her you’re waiting for another milestone before you get engaged.

As we mentioned above, getting engaged is often talked about many times before it actually happens. When it gets brought up next, have a “serious” conversation with her. Tell her that you love her and that you’re just as excited to get engaged as she is, but that you want to make sure “xxx” happens before that. Perhaps it’s that you get a promotion at work or that you move in together beforehand. Reassure her that it will happen (don’t be a you-know-what and pretend you’re not sure), but that there is an understandable milestone for you to hit first.

4. Suggest you take a trip together a few weekends after the date you plan to propose.

Let’s say you’re planning your proposal for July 10^th. A few weeks before, tell her you want to take her somewhere the weekend of July 17^th or 24^th. She’ll immediately think it’s going happen on the trip (and so will all her friends and family), and she’ll be royally stumped when it happens anytime before that.

Want to hear other ways men have done it? Head to HowHeAsked.com to read tons of real-life proposal stories from guys just like you.

The post 4 Ways to Throw Off Your Girlfriend Before the Proposal appeared first on The Loupe.

During a Lake or Beach Trip

There’s something incredibly romantic about a weekend trip to the beach or lake. You can really zero in on peacefulness and togetherness, and you can also make it as private and secluded as you’d like. We suggest proposing on the second day of the trip. It will build suspense for the surprise and leave you some time at the end to enjoy being newly engaged together. As an added bonus, you’ll forever have a place to celebrate anniversaries at the beautiful place you proposed. Check out this example.

During a Hike or Outdoor Sport

If you’re an adventurous couple, why not propose during an activity you love to do? If you can, have her plan the outing or think it was her idea. Set something up, like a picnic or bed of flowers, towards the end of the hike or activity. When she stumbles upon it, she’ll be caught off guard since she’s the one who “planned” the day.

If you want to go over the top for a hiking proposal, hang photos from the trees along the trail ahead of time and have her find them one by one. Here’s one example.

On the 4th of July

Make the sparks fly (literally) when you propose on the 4th of July! Since friends and family often get together that weekend, it could be the perfect way to make sure everyone you love is in on the proposal too. If there’s a parade or boat parade, you could ask someone on one of the floats/boats to hold up a banner asking your girlfriend to marry you. You could also take a walk down the beach together and propose to her privately. When you return, all of her friends and family could be waiting to congratulate you! Either way, the 4th is always a fun weekend full of sun, laughter and good times—all of which make a great setting to propose.

During a Road Trip

Summer is the best time to take a drive or do a road trip. Find a spot that’s an hour or two outside of town and make a mixed tape (or playlist) to listen to on your way. The last song could be a recording of your voice telling your girlfriend how much you love her. When you reach your destination, hop out of the car and get down on one knee. If you have a friend or proposal planner to help, you could even mark the spot with some balloons and signage that says something like, “Stop here to start your forever!”

The post Summer Proposal Ideas appeared first on The Loupe.

You’ve already spent a considerable amount of money on the engagement ring and the plans you’ve made to actually pop the question, so why not capture those special moments with photos that will be cherished forever? Search for a local wedding photographer (they’re usually great at capturing emotion) and tell them your plan. Oftentimes, they can help you scout out the perfect location and even suggest ways to make it more magical than you imagined.

Want to capture it more creatively? We all saw that sweet photo booth proposal and fell in love with the idea. Using a photo booth is a great way to catch the moment on camera and she’ll never see it coming.

Finally, if you’re looking to get a video of her reaction, you can always hire a videographer on top of a photographer, or you can turn to GoPro or Ring Cam. If you haven’t heard of Ring Cam, it’s a specially-made ring box with a tiny camera built inside. It’s one of those “why didn’t I think of that?” ideas and we’re huge fans of it.

2. Use a Unique Ring Box

We’ve seen everything from handmade wooden boxes to using a hollowed out book as a box. We’ve also seen a unique engagement ring case that actually fits into a wallet or back pocket. Using a “delightful flower blooming effect when opened,” the discreet design allows the case to be easily hidden before popping the question. Etsy also has a ton of artist-created boxes—just search “engagement ring boxes” and you’ll find themed boxes, customizable boxes, vintage boxes and more.

3. Include Friends and Family

Gone are the days when you take your partner out to a romantic dinner and propose in the presence of strangers and dessert plates. More and more couples are including their friends and families in the proposal, and any woman who is close to her family would love to see that happen. Our favorite idea is surprising her with a day-of engagement party minutes or hours after you get down on one knee. We see this often and the look on her face is always priceless.

You can also have them play a part in the proposal itself. In this example, the groom had all of their friends and family line a red carpet and hand her a love letter as she walked down it. He was standing at the end waiting for her and their tears were already streaming when she got there.

As long as you stress the importance of keeping it a secret, and telling the more loose-lipped relatives as close to the proposal date as possible, they’ll be thrilled to be a part of it and your bride will love it too.

4. Get Inspired on HowHeAsked.com (duh!)

Thanks to the incredible submissions from all of our brides and grooms-to-be, we’ve collected thousands of proposal stories to inspire you on your hunt to find the perfect proposal idea. From romantic settings on the beach to creative teepee proposals, we’ve seen a little bit of everything and can’t wait to see what else the world comes up with.

The post 4 Proposal Tips appeared first on The Loupe.

1. Start with a pre-proposal speech

Take time just before getting on one knee to share your heart and intentions with her. Tell her how she’s changed your life, when you knew you wanted to marry her and your dreams for your future together. The purpose of a pre-proposal speech is to get those butterflies flying. If she’s close to her family, you can spark extra emotion by telling her you already asked them.

2. Don’t over-rehearse

If you plan to call her gorgeous but you call her beautiful by mistake, it is not a big deal. However, feeling like you “messed up” in the middle of the speech might make you more nervous for the rest of it. It’s better to write an outline of what you want to say, then let yourself fill in the heartfelt words in the moment. A perfect speech that sounds more like a robot than the man she loves will not get you the emotion you’re looking for.

3. A sturdy stance is important for delivery

Start your pre-proposal speech standing or sitting next to her. In other words, don’t immediately go down on one knee. Being on one knee isn’t the most natural position, and if you’re not feeling sure-footed as you deliver your speech, you’re more likely to get distracted or stutter. Put yourself in a position that makes you feel confident and strong, and then start pouring your heart out.

4. Get down on one knee just before the words “will you marry me?” 

Your speech cued the butterflies, and she’ll melt all over again watching you go down on one knee. Wait a few seconds to let it sink in for both of you and then start with her name (or a nickname!) before asking the actual question. Look in her eyes and go with whatever emotion comes over you. If the biggest smile washes over your face, go with it. If the tears start coming, let them.

5. Stay on one knee until she says yes

This is fairly simple, but I’ll say it again: do not stand up until she says yes. You should also wait until she says yes to put the ring on her finger.

What happens next depends on her reaction—just enjoy what comes. The scary stuff is over. You’re on your way to getting married!

With all of this being said, there’s a good chance you and your new bride-to-be will forget exactly what happened, even 30 seconds after the “yes.” For this reason, we recommend hiring a photographer to capture your proposal. They can hide far enough away to still maintain privacy. You can also write the words you practiced for your speech in a love letter and give it to her a few days later. In doing so, you both will be able to relive your proposal any time you want. I can’t imagine reliving anything more beautiful!

The post Proposal Speech Etiquette – What to Say Before, During and After appeared first on The Loupe.

So let’s assume for a minute that you are one of those guys. There’s no shame in it. In a tight economy, more and more people are living paycheck to paycheck and finding that coming up with that extra bit of cash for a proper engagement ring can be quite difficult. If times are tough for you, there’s no doubt that your girlfriend already knows it, and she’s not expecting you to present her with an expensive diamond ring. She knows you love her, and chances are she just wants a symbol of your eternal love and commitment.

As promised, I’m going to give you five fun and romantic ways to propose on a budget, but before I can do that, we need to figure out how you can fit an engagement ring into your tight budget. Shane Co. has engagement rings available in a wide range of prices. In fact, you can get a lovely solitaire for as little as $1,000 to $1,500. One of the many benefits of buying a ring from Shane Co. is the trade-up policy: if the ring you select today is not exactly what you want her to wear for the rest of her life, you can always trade it up at a later time for something else, and Shane Co. will gladly give you full credit for the original purchase price.

So how do you get a nice ring for around $1,500? In this case, you’d have two options for the engagement ring: either a smaller diamond or a larger white sapphire. In both instances, you will always have the trade-up option available to you and Shane Co.’s Free Lifetime Warranty.

Once you’ve bought an engagement ring that you’re proud of, it’s time to plan the proposal. Now what? Let’s look at some ways you can give her the romantic, unforgettable fairytale proposal that she’s dreamed of all her life.

Here are five fun and romantic ways to propose on a budget:

• Take her to the exact location where you first laid eyes on each other. Speak from your heart and tell her how much you love her and that you want to spend the rest of your life with her. Then drop to one knee and pop the question.
• If she’s a sports lover, take her to a professional sporting event in your area. If you plan ahead and get in touch with the right person, the team’s organization may help you do something special during the game at no additional cost. Professional organizations like the love and romance of a proposal because it makes people feel good and promotes business, and if it’s a major event, there are always cameras nearby.
• If you and she have discussed getting engaged and she knows at some point you will be proposing, take her with you to your local Shane Co. and ask her to show you what she likes. What she doesn’t know is that you’ve already been there and enlisted the help of the Shane Co. staff. As she is looking at rings and trying on different styles, the sales associate can show her a ring that has a diamond already mounted in it. You can then take the ring, drop to one knee, and ask her to marry you, with all your Shane Co. friends watching. You may even be able to get someone to secretly record it for you.

Note: For these final two ideas, proceed with caution. It is essential that your finance has a good sense of humor, otherwise her answer could be a resounding NO!

• You will need to have your Shane Co. engagement ring ready to give to her, and  you will also need to buy a cheap solitaire with a cubic zirconia or some sort of fake diamond in it. For this idea, the worse the ring looks overall, the better. Leave the fake ring out somewhere where she can easily find it (and where you can observe her doing so). Let her look at it for as long as you are comfortable and your hope is that she will know it’s of poor quality. Tell her she wasn’t supposed to find it and when you can’t take it anymore, show her the beautiful ring you got at Shane Co. and ask her to marry you.
• And finally, my favorite of the bunch. When you’re at Shane Co. picking out your engagement ring, kindly ask them if you can have a second ring box. Then go to a store that has costume jewelry and spend a few dollars on a fake ring that looks relatively authentic. Find a romantic location that is high up, such as the Golden Gate Bridge, the Grand Canyon or a romantic cliff overlooking the ocean. When the moment strikes and you’re ready to propose to your love, take out the fake ring in the extra box and hold it in front of her, but don’t open it until you see the moment of understanding on her face and she knows what’s about to happen. Once you see that look, slowly open the box and allow her to get a brief glimpse of the fake ring. Then, drop the box, with the fake ring still inside, into the depths of the water or down the cliff. Your reaction is key in this example. Briefly make a big deal about the fact that you’ve dropped her ring, then soon after show her the real ring, and ask her to marry you. Note: Please make sure you do not drop it on anyone’s head and please do not get yourself in trouble for littering.

These are just some ideas that you can modify to fit your needs. The most important thing is that you have fun and make your proposal a memorable event that you can someday proudly share with your grandchildren.

The post Five Fun and Romantic Ways to Propose on a Budget appeared first on The Loupe.