Choosing an engagement ring is one of the most symbolic and meaningful parts of getting engaged. Your partner will wear their ring daily; it will be a constant reminder of the love and commitment you share. That’s why picking out an engagement ring together is so significant.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of engagement ring shopping together versus going at it solo. We’ll provide tips on how to make the experience meaningful for both partners. And we’ll share creative ideas on how you can shop together but still have elements of surprise for the proposal–if that’s important to you and your significant other.
Whether you want to stick with a traditional proposal or forge your own path, there are many options for picking out that perfect ring together.
The Benefits of Choosing an Engagement Ring Together
Ring shopping together can really strengthen the bond between you and your partner. It gives you a chance to spend time together, as well as focus on your relationship.
When couples shop together, they have the chance to listen to each other’s wants, compromise, and make a joint decision. This gives you practice working as a team – an important skill for marriage!
Other benefits to shopping together are that when your partner is involved, you can both make sure the ring is perfectly tailored to their style.
Do they like yellow gold or silver tones? Modern or vintage looks? Solitaire or side stones? Are they hoping for an engraving?
Your partner knows the details about their jewelry preferences that you may not. This means getting their input on their own engagement ring means no more guessing if you’ll pick the “right” ring.
If you’re worried that not surprising your partner with a ring you choose will take away from the element of surprise, don’t be. Try to think of it this way: if they are involved with picking out their ring, there won’t be any hurt feelings if you choose something they don’t like.
When you both love the style you chose together, there’s no chance of disappointment. You’ll feel confident knowing your partner is thrilled to wear their engagement ring for years to come. And you’ll both have fond memories of the meaningful experience you shared.
Preparing to Shop
Establish a Budget
Before you start shopping, have an open discussion about your ring budget. This can feel awkward but make sure you’re both on the same page financially.
When you come prepared with a price range you can reasonably afford, you can focus your search and avoid possible disagreements later on.
Get Inspired
Once you have a budget, talk about style preferences. Have your partner collect some ring inspiration pictures; be sure to include their favorite metal colors, the stone shapes they like, and even diamond sizes. Encourage your partner not to hold back on expressing what they want in a ring. Their input will help guide your search.
Learn About the 4Cs of Diamonds & Metal Colors
Do your homework ahead of time to learn the basics about diamonds. Research the 4Cs (cut, clarity, color and carat) and how they determine a stone’s quality.
Read up on types of gold, platinum and alternative metals to understand the differences. This knowledge will help you make an informed decision and get the best value on a diamond ring for your money.
Manage Your Expectations
The perfect ring that hits all of your requirements may not exist within your budget–and that’s OK. Just be prepared to compromise and keep an open mind.
Instead of going in with an all-or-nothing attitude, focus on finding a ring you both connect with–even if it’s not exactly what you originally pictured. Do you best to keep things in perspective because, after all, the love and commitment matters far more than the jewelry itself.
Finding the Right Jewelry Store
You can purchase an engagement in-person or online. Neither option is necessarily better than another, but there are pros and cons to both. In general, brick and mortar stores allow you to see items in person, while webstores offer huge selections and competitive pricing.
Shop Both Online and In-store With Clean Origin
But that’s not always true, especially when it comes to Clean Origin. With us, you can shop either online or in-store and you’re going to have a wide selection to choose from. And the best part? All of our online pricing matches our in-store pricing.
Visiting a store together, in-person, allows you to view rings side by side. You can get help from a jewelry expert and try on different styles. When you shop online you can search by cut, shape, metal and more–this is great for researching all of your options.
Another option is to narrow down your selections online, then go in store to see them in person. We recommend making an appointment prior to going in so you get the best service possible.
Make Sure The Retailer You Choose Has a Good Return Policy
No matter what brand you go with, make sure it offers a flexible return policy.
You never know if you’re going to change your mind about the ring you choose, and a good retailer understands this. They should want you to be 100% happy with your purchase.
Along with the return policy be sure to ask about resizing, warranties, and other services. Prioritize stores with knowledgeable staff who treat you both with patience and respect. These factors will elevate the experience.
The Ring Shopping Experience
When you’re ready to start shopping, set aside plenty of time so you don’t feel rushed. Weekday mornings or weekday evenings tend to be less crowded. Bring water and a snack just in case because it could take a few hours!
Trying on different rings together is fun! Try on as many as you can, don’t just home in on one style.
Experiment with different shapes, cuts, metals, settings and details. Try on unique engagement rings you hadn’t considered before. Stay open minded.
If you want something customized, know that many stores offer customization options. You may be able to personalize an existing style to better match your tastes. Ask about customizing the metal type, width, engraving details or accent stones. Get creative!
At Clean Origin, you have the option to build your own diamond engagement ring–you have so many options!
And as you narrow down those options, share your input with one another. With open communication and patience, you’ll find something just right for you as a couple.
Handling Challenges and Disagreements
People have different tastes and preferences, which means having different opinions on ring style is notmal. If you find yourselves disagreeing on styles, share what aspects most appeal to each of you.
See if you can find common ground–but if you’re really struggling, take a break and come back to it later with fresh eyes.
If your disagreement is about cost, that’s not uncommon either. Staying within budget while still getting a ring you both love can be tricky. In this case, try to get creative about saving money in other areas so you still get the right engagement ring.
Maybe opt for a simpler band or smaller center stone. Choose 14k white gold instead of platinum. Instead of a round diamond, go with a fancy shape. There are always ways you can save. Communicate to find a solution and still get the “dream ring.”
Don’t be afraid to ask your jeweler for help if you feel stuck. They are experts at guiding couples through compromise. Explain your situation and priorities to see what options they suggest. An outside perspective can make a big difference.
At the end of the day, remember that some level of compromise is key. You both need to listen to the other’s wants and be flexible. Remind yourselves that the goal is finding a ring you both genuinely love, even if it’s not exactly what you pictured originally. Stay focused on what really matters – your love!
Making the Final Decision
After trying on different styles, take some time to reflect on the experience together. Talk about which options you were drawn back to and any new things you discovered. Sleep on it if you’re still undecided.
When you finally find the one, you’ll both feel it! The perfect ring for you as a couple will check all the boxes – attractive, well-made, and meaningful. It will represent your partnership. Trust your instincts when you choose the final ring.
Preparing for the Proposal
If you thought picking out a ring together will spoil the proposal, nothing could be further from the truth!
Just because you both chose the ring doesn’t mean your partner will know when or how you’ll pop the question. You can still keep those details under wraps.
Make sure to confirm your partner’s ring size before purchasing. If you need to, plan to discreetly take the ring for resizing after you buy it. You want that ring to slip perfectly into place, on their ring finger, in the moment.
With the ring handled, put effort into planning a heartfelt proposal. Ask for help from family or friends to make it special. While the surprise factor may be lower, you can still wow your partner with a meaningful, memorable moment.
Announcing Your Engagement
Once your partner has said yes, it’s time to spread the exciting news! Call and text close family and friends. Change social media status to “engaged” and post that smiling photo with the ring. Pop some champagne and toast to this wonderful new chapter.
Expect lots of ring selfies as you proudly show off this symbol of your commitment. The compliments will roll in!
Some people may be surprised that you chose a ring together. If this happens, let them be surprised. Instead, focus on your feelings and how special it was for you to choose the ring together.
Ring Shopping Together Can Strengthen Your Bond
When you pick out an engagement ring together, you get to share an intimate experience with your partner. You get to learn each other’s preferences and ensure the ring reflects your relationship.
And even though finding the perfect ring is exciting, it really is the process that matters. Have open conversations, compromise, and make decisions together. Doing this will strengthen your bond and set you up for a lifetime of teamwork.
When it comes time to get engaged, don’t be afraid to try something new. Just be present and cherish the experience!
Picking Out an Engagement Ring With Clean Origin
Nothing makes us happier than helping a couple find the perfect lab grown diamond engagement ring. Our lab grown diamonds are affordable and beautiful–in fact, they’re 30-50% less expensive than natural diamonds.
We offer a huge selection of engagement rings styles, and even offer bridal sets that come with a perfectly paired wedding band.
Shop online or in-store with us, and take advantage of our free ring resizing and 100 day return policy. If you order online, you may even qualify for shipping on your ring free of charge.
You can’t go wrong when you shop lab grown, and we’re here to help make your shopping experience as easy as possible.
Shop with us today!
