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“Will you marry me?”. Those four little words are some of the most treasured that many hope to say or hear. It marks the start of a beautiful journey between two people who wish to spend their lives together and creates a lasting memory that will always be precious. When deciding on how to ask your loved one to marry you, it can feel more than a little overwhelming. Not only do you have to hope that the answer will be a positive one, you also need to focus on the advance preparations of the event before you even think about popping the question!
The engagement period really covers the time from pre-proposal right the way through to the wedding preparations, and depending on the couple, it can end up being somewhat of a whirlwind experience. This article will guide you swiftly through the ways in which you can ensure that yours and your partner's core values are upheld throughout this time. It is absolutely possible to have an ethical and sustainable proposal and engagement, all it takes is a little organisation and creativity. A proposal is a very personal and intimate occasion, and it’s important to take into account your loved one’s likes and dislikes, but also their deeper beliefs and the values that are important to them. Of course, it is just as essential to factor in something special that is meaningful and enjoyable for both of you. As with weddings, the union is about both parties. |
Prepare to SucceedThe first thing to consider, is whether you have a specific day or date that you’d like to propose to your significant other on. Perhaps there is a special birthday coming up and you’d like to make it even more memorable. Is there a once-in-a-lifetime holiday booked this year that would be the perfect backdrop for a romantic proposal? It’s true, planning an engagement or a wedding can be a rather stressful time, so do bear this in mind when considering your timing around other events you have going on. Once you’ve established the ‘when’, it is much easier to develop the ‘how’.
The next item on the proposal checklist should be, if necessary, to ask for the blessing. True, the idea of asking for someone’s permission is perhaps a little controversial or even outdated but you can phrase it however you wish; the key here is to speak to your partner’s loved ones and tell them of your intentions. If there are children involved, then it's a nice touch to chat with them and get their blessing as well. |
Image Credit: Richard Murgatroyd Photography
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The Element of Surprise
Many couples these days will discuss their plans to be engaged together, whereas others prefer to keep it more under wraps, planning the proposal as a complete surprise. There is no right answer here, this decision can only be determined based on your personal preference and what feels natural to you.
We interact with an ever-growing number of couples who are planning their engagement together, right from the outset of sourcing the ring. If nothing else, it is sometimes a good idea to confer on big decisions like the ring just to ensure it perfectly fits with your partners style and values. A nice idea we increasingly see is where couples will purchase the ring together, and then from that point on, all further responsibilities regarding the proposal are handed over to the party doing the proposing, leaving at least some element of surprise!
The vast majority of people we deal with on a day-to-day basis are however undoubtedly planning a surprise proposal, with their partner being none the wiser. This can make for an unbelievably overwhelming and romantic experience which can be magical. Consider your partner’s personality and decide whether a total surprise will be their idea of a dream proposal. Given the right setting, with a good amount of thought and forward planning, for some people there won’t be many life experiences that will top a proposal completely out of the blue.
We interact with an ever-growing number of couples who are planning their engagement together, right from the outset of sourcing the ring. If nothing else, it is sometimes a good idea to confer on big decisions like the ring just to ensure it perfectly fits with your partners style and values. A nice idea we increasingly see is where couples will purchase the ring together, and then from that point on, all further responsibilities regarding the proposal are handed over to the party doing the proposing, leaving at least some element of surprise!
The vast majority of people we deal with on a day-to-day basis are however undoubtedly planning a surprise proposal, with their partner being none the wiser. This can make for an unbelievably overwhelming and romantic experience which can be magical. Consider your partner’s personality and decide whether a total surprise will be their idea of a dream proposal. Given the right setting, with a good amount of thought and forward planning, for some people there won’t be many life experiences that will top a proposal completely out of the blue.
Sealed with a Ring
Nothing says I love you more than a carefully-chosen, beautifully made ring, and for those of an ethical persuasion, there is no other option than a sustainably created man-made stone. Lab-created, natural diamond alternatives founded on sustainable principles offer the peace of mind that your future does not build upon unethical practices.
Not only are such stones far more environmentally-friendly to produce than their natural counterparts, they are certain to be free from conflict, free from human rights abuses, and far better for the planet and all its inhabitants. If your core values are based on a drive to be more environmentally-friendly, if you follow a vegan lifestyle or if you generally just try to be a responsible consumer, then a beautiful man-made stone set into a traditionally handcrafted ring can marry your beliefs with a stunning piece of jewellery, without any need to compromise.
Because we specialise in only engagement rings which can so often be intended as a surprise, our postage boxes are largely unbranded but we have to include a ‘return to sender’ address for insurance purposes, so consider getting the ring delivered to a trusted family member or friend if you want to avoid the suspicions of your loved one. You may need to consider purchasing a separate special proposal ring box, but we try to help on this front as your ring will arrive in one of our luxurious natural wood ring boxes featuring no less than a vegan leather interior. Whether the ring choice will be a surprise or not, there’s no need to worry about getting the ring size exactly right first time, it can easily be resized. If you end up opting for one of our rings, we’ll be able to resize it for you at no extra cost if it doesn’t fit perfectly. Don’t forget to order the ring in good time if you have a certain date or special occasion in mind for your proposal. Our production times vary but normally range between one to two weeks for example.
Because we specialise in only engagement rings which can so often be intended as a surprise, our postage boxes are largely unbranded but we have to include a ‘return to sender’ address for insurance purposes, so consider getting the ring delivered to a trusted family member or friend if you want to avoid the suspicions of your loved one. You may need to consider purchasing a separate special proposal ring box, but we try to help on this front as your ring will arrive in one of our luxurious natural wood ring boxes featuring no less than a vegan leather interior. Whether the ring choice will be a surprise or not, there’s no need to worry about getting the ring size exactly right first time, it can easily be resized. If you end up opting for one of our rings, we’ll be able to resize it for you at no extra cost if it doesn’t fit perfectly. Don’t forget to order the ring in good time if you have a certain date or special occasion in mind for your proposal. Our production times vary but normally range between one to two weeks for example.
The Setting
The right setting for the proposal is essential, but that doesn’t mean it has to be too extravagant. There are a host of different options to consider so we’ll cover a few ideas here, all of which are perfect to help create a memorable and thoughtful proposal.
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Image Credit: Richard Murgatroyd Photography
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The Great Outdoors
For those of us who enjoy long walks in nature, few things beat an afternoon of beautiful surroundings and great company. Any kind of green space can make for a picturesque setting. If you often follow a favourite route though, then why not ask a friend to set up a luxury hamper and picnic area ready for you both to discover - just be sure to check the weather in advance!
What to include:
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A Romantic Getaway
If you’re planning on asking the big question during a holiday abroad, then be sure to speak to the hotel that you’ll be staying at to inform them of your plans in advance. You might be surprised at how helpful they will want to be, as they will likely be honoured that you have chosen their destination for such a special occasion. You may find they have some helpful suggestions and insider knowledge of the local areas, and they should be able to lend a hand should anything go awry.
Velona’s Jungle in Florence is a sustainable and eco-friendly luxury boutique hotel in the heart of one of Italy’s most beautiful cities. For a more rural location, try Hotel Valldemossa in Mallorca, situated in the luscious surroundings of the Sierra de Tramuntana mountains and with the freshest air imaginable.
Velona’s Jungle in Florence is a sustainable and eco-friendly luxury boutique hotel in the heart of one of Italy’s most beautiful cities. For a more rural location, try Hotel Valldemossa in Mallorca, situated in the luscious surroundings of the Sierra de Tramuntana mountains and with the freshest air imaginable.
A Family Occasion
Many couples wish to have their nearest and dearest as part of their proposal. For those who want to include family members, why not invite your loved ones to a party (surprise or otherwise!) and get them in on the act. Give your partner’s closest relatives a balloon with a letter on it and when you’re ready, invite them to stand in line to reveal ‘Will You Marry Me?’ We recently found these eco balloons that are organic and biodegradable from eco-friendly party suppliers Little Cherry.
A Special Restaurant
Everyone has a favourite restaurant. It’s the place you go to celebrate, enjoy a special date or somewhere you can just be sure to feast on the foods you adore. Restaurant proposals may be rather traditional, but if your partner enjoys the limelight, it can be the perfect way to begin your engagement.
Always try to speak to the restaurant owner or manager in advance, book the best table in the house and request the staff wait on standby with a bottle of bubbles. Most restaurants will be flattered that you chose their restaurant and will do everything they can to make sure it is a night to remember. Think about when you want to ask the big question – during the meal? With dessert? At the end of your dinner before your aperitif? Don’t forget you could ask the restaurant if they can prepare a special menu for you both, think of a theme or even suggest a tasting menu that is designed to be shared!
Always try to speak to the restaurant owner or manager in advance, book the best table in the house and request the staff wait on standby with a bottle of bubbles. Most restaurants will be flattered that you chose their restaurant and will do everything they can to make sure it is a night to remember. Think about when you want to ask the big question – during the meal? With dessert? At the end of your dinner before your aperitif? Don’t forget you could ask the restaurant if they can prepare a special menu for you both, think of a theme or even suggest a tasting menu that is designed to be shared!
At Home
For some, a home proposal allows them the creativity they need to put together a really personal affair – it worked for Prince Harry and Megan Markle! For those couples who would rather not find themselves in the spotlight, a home engagement can be the perfect option. Plus, your furry friends can get to join in the fun as well!
If you still want to include an element of surprise, choose a day that your partner will be either at work or out for a few hours, which will give you plenty of time to prepare. Create your own restaurant experience by ordering in delicious food, or create your own home-cooked banquet for two. This handy article from Making Thyme For Health has 14 romantic meat-free meal suggestions. Decorate your home with beautiful flowers, or even a trail of petals, and why not try these stunning candles from Organdle to create the perfect atmosphere? |
Image Credit: Organdle
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Capture the Memory
Some couples want to capture that ‘yes!’ moment, and it is actually possible to hire a professional photographer to do just that. With a decent amount of organisation and careful location selection, some photographers are able to discreetly capture the moment from a distance, without taking away from the romanticism of it all. Photographer Richard Murgatroyd says that “proposal shoots are brilliant for lots of reasons, not least getting some great images packed with emotion and context that aren’t taken at arms length on a smartphone”.
Image Credit: Richard Murgatroyd Photography (Taken in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter)
After the proposal it’s a nice idea to hire a photographer to celebrate your engagement. To keep things consistent, you might want to use the same photographer for your wedding ceremony, so be sure to give yourself plenty of time at this stage to familiarise yourself with their style and the different options, and don’t be afraid to discuss your vision with them. To see what is possible take a look at Richard Murgatroyd’s Engagement Portfolio for plenty of inspiration.
Richard, who has heaps of experience photographing proposals, engagements and weddings, advocates the benefits of a pre-wedding shoot. “If I could tell brides and grooms to-be to do one thing in the build up to their wedding it would be to have an engagement or pre-wedding shoot. The idea behind them is really simple – we pick a location that has some meaning to the couple, meet for a coffee or glass of wine and then head out to explore. It’s just about relaxing and capturing two people in love in a way that reflects their personalities and relationship together.”
“In contrast to the wedding day which is often away from home, in a stately home or a country estate, the focus is on putting the bride and groom back in their everyday environment as it is today. Another thing is that most of us Brits have a natural aversion to having our photo taken. I’ve had couples with even the strongest phobias of photography transformed to the point where they are looking forward to their wedding day so much more after an engagement shoot”.
Richard, who has heaps of experience photographing proposals, engagements and weddings, advocates the benefits of a pre-wedding shoot. “If I could tell brides and grooms to-be to do one thing in the build up to their wedding it would be to have an engagement or pre-wedding shoot. The idea behind them is really simple – we pick a location that has some meaning to the couple, meet for a coffee or glass of wine and then head out to explore. It’s just about relaxing and capturing two people in love in a way that reflects their personalities and relationship together.”
“In contrast to the wedding day which is often away from home, in a stately home or a country estate, the focus is on putting the bride and groom back in their everyday environment as it is today. Another thing is that most of us Brits have a natural aversion to having our photo taken. I’ve had couples with even the strongest phobias of photography transformed to the point where they are looking forward to their wedding day so much more after an engagement shoot”.
Time to Celebrate!
Many people choose to have engagement parties, and this is typically more common for couples that are looking to have a longer engagement. It’s important to celebrate the good news in a way that is in alignment with your style and wishes. Perhaps you want to have a larger party, with all your friends, fantastic food and great music. Or maybe a more simple celebratory family meal at your favourite restaurant is more appealing.
There are lots of small and independent caterers who are excellent at putting together canapes and snacks that cover all dietary requirements, so nobody is left out. Contact companies that have an ethical core message and sustainable practices such as Cashew Catering.
Ensure your party is eco-chic by using virtual invites instead of paper (you could even record a special video invitation), opt for paper or metallic straws instead of plastic (or no straw at all), and invest in some eco-friendly party favours and place settings from Paper Tree.
London-based folk craving hearty food for everyone should look to The Vurger Co, as they bring vegetables to the forefront of the latest food revolution and are opening their very own plant-based burger haven very soon. Why not end the night with a few drinks at London’s famous vegetarian pub, Norman’s Coach & Horses – the perfect place for good beer and great company!
There are lots of small and independent caterers who are excellent at putting together canapes and snacks that cover all dietary requirements, so nobody is left out. Contact companies that have an ethical core message and sustainable practices such as Cashew Catering.
Ensure your party is eco-chic by using virtual invites instead of paper (you could even record a special video invitation), opt for paper or metallic straws instead of plastic (or no straw at all), and invest in some eco-friendly party favours and place settings from Paper Tree.
London-based folk craving hearty food for everyone should look to The Vurger Co, as they bring vegetables to the forefront of the latest food revolution and are opening their very own plant-based burger haven very soon. Why not end the night with a few drinks at London’s famous vegetarian pub, Norman’s Coach & Horses – the perfect place for good beer and great company!
Header Image Credit: Richard Murgatroyd Photography
Note: MADE Diamonds is in no way sponsored by the brands mentioned, they are highlighted purely because we love them and think you might too!
Note: MADE Diamonds is in no way sponsored by the brands mentioned, they are highlighted purely because we love them and think you might too!
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Hopefully this guide has been useful and that it has helped calm any jitters you may have had about proposing. Staying true to your values and beliefs is perfectly possible when planning an engagement and it’s a wonderful way to set the tone for the rest of your lives together.
Begin your ethical proposal journey now... |
