Get a ring, plan a surprise proposal, get engaged - that’s how to propose right? Well, that is one way, and a classic for a reason, but some couples are now choosing a variety of different options which can mean both partners are involved in the ring choice.

Whilst picking a ring secretly can be romantic and many partners hit the spot, it is also a large purchase and commitment to do without your future fiancée’s input. Here are some alternative ways to propose, which keep the romance and allow you to choose the ring together - which at The Cut London we think is one of the best bits.

A loose stone - rather than proposing with a made ring, why not buy a loose gemstone to propose with and then you can design a bespoke ring together with an added sentimental twist of the stone being from the proposal.

 

A remodel using a client's stone being designed by Liv Luttrell

 

A placeholder ring - propose with a ring that isn’t the actual engagement ring. This could be a token ring, a plain band (which could then be repurposed as a wedding ring) or a sentimental ring to wear on another finger - the choice and budget is up to you but allows you to propose with something whilst keeping the choice of engagement ring a joint decision.

 

An Elise Friedman Ring - perfect for a placeholder ring

 

A family heirloom - a family ring can be perfect in its own right, but if you have some old family jewellery that maybe needs a refresh why not propose with the old ring and then get it redesigned (and maybe added to) as a bespoke commission which you can design together. Many of our designers do heirloom redesigns and it can be a lovely way to keep some sentimentality whilst creating an individual piece. 

 

A before and after remodel by Hattie Rickards

 

Choose the ring before you propose - most modern couples will have talked about marriage before ‘the big question’ is popped, why not make a day of looking at rings together and whether you find the one or if it just gives you a better idea of design to go for it can really help to get the process right. 

 

A consultation with Michelle Oh

 

No ring at all - a rising trend is to propose with nothing at all and then go on to find or create a ring together. Whilst this might seem odd to some, you could include some ring shopping into the proposal day to keep it feeling special and allows you to choose everything as a couple. 

 

Bespoke ring drawings by Liv Luttrell