So you’re ready to pop the question! That’s awesome! There’s a lot of stuff to think about— Where will you do propose? How will you ask? Do I need their Dad’s permission? What about a proposal photographer?

Well, that’s another ball of wax entirely. But we CAN help you choose an engagement ring for your partner without them catching on. Check out our tips for choosing the right ring and making your proposal a moment your partner will never forget!

Image courtesy of Necker’s Jewelers

Figure out how much to surprise your partner

Are they easy-going and spontaneous, or do they like to have control over planning your dates and nights out? If your partner likes surprises and sentiment, they may be thrilled for you to pop the question with a ring you chose. However, if they prefer a little more planning, they may already have a specific ring in mind and will want some say in the ring. Consider their personality and pay attention to any hints they may dropped about what stone or type of ring they want.

Sneak a peek at the Pinterest board

This one may require a bit of espionage. Check out their Pinterest account ASAP to see if any dream rings are saved anywhere. This gives you a solid starting point. If they keep ring photos on a private Pinterest board though, you may need to sneak a peek at their phone or computer when the opportunity arises.

Pay close attention

There are usually lots of hints dropped leading up to engagement. If you haven’t been taking notes, you may need to reach out to friends. Have they mentioned to them what kind of engagement ring they want or casually mentioned their dream proposal? If you have friends who get engaged, listen for comments on the ring and pay attention to what is said about any rings, whether on TV or scrolling through social media.

Go through jewelry

The pieces he/she already owns and regularly wears can give you an idea of what styles and stones are most wanted. Take note of any jewelry that’s worn often and look through the jewelry box when you have an opportunity. Pay attention to any common themes, like colors, stones, and metals. Is there a particular style he/she seems drawn to, like vintage or classic? Snap a few photos of some of the pieces to show a jeweler, who can help you find something in a similar style.

Talk to their bestie

Chances are no one knows his/ her preferences in jewelry better than a best friend. If you feel your partner’s BFF can keep a secret, talk to them about what kind of ring your future spouse would like. In fact, your partner may have already shared their visions of a dream ring with their best friend.

Take advantage of the private browser

If you share a computer, you don’t want anyone stumbling across your search history of engagement rings. Be sure to use an incognito or private browser every time you look around online to ensure that no one ends up with targeted ads for engagement rings, which will quickly give away the surprise.

Borrow one of their rings

If you’re not sure about ring size, find an already owned ring and bring that in to the jeweler. Just make sure it’s not a ring that’s worn regularly. If they notice it’s missing, the gig will be up!

If all else fails, just ask

The majority of couples talk about getting married well before they’re engaged, and it’s a great idea to get your partner involved in choosing the ring. After all, you want to make sure it’s something both of you absolutely love. You can still keep the when, where, and how of your proposal a surprise, even if they know a proposal is coming. When you ask exactly what they want, you can make sure they’re getting the ring of their dreams, making that “Yes!” extra special.

We’re excited to be the Quad Cities region’s FIRST all-inclusive wedding blog and vendor directory! We are celebrating all things love in the QCA and helping couples plan their happily ever after!

Dream it. Plan it. Love it.

Picking the Perfect Engagement Ring on the Down Low