Engagement Ring Shopping with Your Partner

You have made one of the most exciting decisions of your life: the person whom you will marry. This joyous season brings with it a host of other choices that are both exhilarating and overwhelming. One of the primary selections yet to be made is that of the perfect engagement ring. Should this decision be yours alone, or should you and your partner choose the right ring together? Consider the pros and cons of selecting an engagement ring with your significant other.

The Benefits of Selecting a Ring Together

For centuries, the tradition has been for the groom to complete a marriage proposal with a ring that he has selected. Yet, this tradition is changing. The wedding website, The Knot, reported a growing trend away from tradition in a 2017 article. In recent years, almost one in three couples now prefer to make this momentous decision together.

Some pros of making the selection a shared event are:

• Bonding over the decision. Many couples are finding that they enjoy the process of exploring stones, settings and metals together as much as finding the ideal ring. This journey includes discussing customs within each family, sharing personal preferences and experiencing the exhilaration of discovery together.
• Providing a way to establish priorities and values. Instead of succumbing to the pressures of romantic perfection, couples are free to determine together the amount of they want to invest into the engagement ring. Selecting a ring together provides a time of insightful assessment of expectations. The couple considers how the engagement ring fits into the budget for the wedding and beyond. This decision offers a great way to grow in understanding and respect for one another’s views.
• Designing a ring of their own. Many couples decide that because their love is one of a kind, they want to customize a ring for themselves. This process allows the couple’s creativity to flow and create a ring that reflects their unique love story.

The Drawbacks of Selecting a Ring Together

An engagement is truly a time to do what feels right for you and your partner. Before making the selection of the engagement ring a joint event, remember these drawbacks:

• Removing the element of surprise. Many people love to get to know more about their significant others and then select the perfect gift. If this process is meaningful to you, then going solo may be the right choice for you. If you imagine the elation of your beloved with the presentation of the ring, then plan to do your research and shop alone.
• Breaking tradition. For many families, traditions are honored and valued. If the practice of a romantic proposal is a part of either family heritage, weighing out how vital keeping this tradition is worthwhile.
• Not Involving those around you. Part of the enjoyment of selecting a ring for your significant other is involving family members and friends with the process. Invite your intended’s family and inner circle to share insights into preferences, dreams and dislikes. You will increase the anticipation and exhilaration of the proposal for all you love your significant other.

Choosing a Balance Between Selection and Surprise

Think outside the box. Ponder the possibility of experiencing the best of both worlds in these ways:

• Window shopping. Enjoy the benefits of learning about ring selections together and seek knowledge from credible jewelers to make informed decisions. Surf a mix of websites, from the elegant to the avant-garde. You may come away inspired. Be sure not to overlook any possibility. Relax and have fun. After gleaning information concerning your significant other’s favorite styles and stones, go back and secure the one that you both loved the most.
• Going undercover. Ask a trusted friend or family member to invite your partner to explore rings together. Have your “detective” find out as much as possible about all aspects that are most appealing to her. Then use this information to make an informed decision sure to delight both of you. Your significant someone will be amazed at how well you do in fulfilling her dreams.

We at Mark’s Diamonds are ready to partner with you in the exploration and selection in finding the perfect engagement ring. We offer over 35 years of expertise in designing heirloom-worthy pieces for every budget and imagination. Our passion is to connect each couple with tangible, meaningful expressions of love. We have served both individuals and couples and know how to guide you in the best choice.

By studying your significant other and the purchase process, you are well on your way to choosing the perfect piece. Book your private appointment today as your first step in making the best decision possible for you and your loved one.