Presented by Brinker’s Jewelers

You’ve found the person you want to spend forever with; now it’s time to plan the perfect proposal! Whether you envision a grand gesture or a sweet, intimate moment, this is a milestone you’ll remember forever. The good news? You do not need a movie-grade budget and entourage to make the perfect proposal happen. You can do this on your own. But if you’d rather have help, keep it simple—one or two trusted people who genuinely know and support your relationship are all you need.

At Brinker’s Jewelers, we’re here to guide you through every step of the proposal planning process. From choosing the perfect engagement ring to setting the mood—so you feel confident, prepared, and excited to pop the question in a way that feels right to both of you.

Step One: Choosing the Ring

The engagement ring is more than jewelry—it symbolizes your love for her, and she’ll wear it every day. It should reflect her personality, your story, and the future you’re building together.

How to Prepare Before Visiting Brinker’s Jewelers

A little prep goes a long way. Doing some research ahead of time makes the experience faster! By doing your homework, you will already have eliminated some options, focused your interest, and helped yourself feel confident in your choices.

Some couples openly discuss their dream ring before the big moment, but if you’re planning a surprise, don’t stress! Check her Pinterest boards, browse her current jewelry collection, or reach out to her closest friend or a family member. Chances are, she’s already shared what her dream ring looks like with someone.

Even when you know her well, the ring is a big decision, and analysis paralysis is real. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, get a second opinion, or talk to one of our experts at Brinker’s Jewelers. We’re here to help make this process meaningful, exciting, and stress-free.

Knowing Her Ring Size

This step is often overlooked, but it’s key for that magical “slip-it-on-her-finger” moment.

Here are a few tried-and-true methods:

• Snag a ring she sometimes wears on her left ring finger just long enough to have it sized by a jeweler using a mandrel. Be sure to put it back right where you found it!
• Ask someone close to her. A sister, best friend, or even her mom might know.
• Stage a casual jewelry browsing trip and “just for fun” have her try some rings on to get professionally sized.
• Read our blog on ring sizing for a more in-depth guide and a downloadable ring sizer!

Metal Matters: Choosing the Right Ring Metal

Regarding engagement rings, the metal is just as crucial as the gemstone. The precious metal plays a massive role in the overall style, durability, and how it complements her personally.

• White Gold is the sleekest, modern, and most popular choice. Its bright, silvery shine pairs beautifully with diamonds.
• Yellow Gold is a timeless classic with a rich, warm tone. It is perfect for traditional or vintage-inspired tastes.
• Rose Gold is romantic, feminine, and trendy. The pink hue flatters all skin tones and stands out subtly and uniquely.
• Platinum is naturally hypoallergenic, extra durable, and heavier than gold. It is a luxe choice for sensitive skin and everyday wear that ages with a beautiful, soft patina over time. 

Brinker’s Jewelers Pro Tip: Snap a pic of her jewelry to show your Brinker’s expert—we’ll help you choose the best match.

Diamond or Alternative Gem?

Does she want the timeless sparkle of a diamond, or is she into something more unique? Diamonds are the traditional gem that is the focal point of engagement rings, but they are not your only option. It’s important to also consider what shape she prefers—like round, oval, emerald, pear, cushion, etc.

For a deeper dive into the 4 C’s of a Diamond, diamond shapes, and more inspiration, visit our blog at brinkersjewelers.com.

Durable Diamond Alternatives

Looking for something different? These gemstones are stunning and strong for everyday wear:

• Sapphire – Naturally occurring in nearly every color of the rainbow (and everything in between). Sapphire is one of two gemstones that ranks right behind diamonds in hardness. 
• Ruby – Classic, bold, and passionately gorgeous, Ruby is just behind Diamonds on the Moh’s scale of hardness, along with Sapphire. 
• Spinel—These are eye-catching, come in various natural colors (including red, blue, pink, purple, and orange), and are budget-friendly.
• Garnet – From tsavorite garnet’s beautiful granny smith apple green to almandite garnet’s dark blood red, garnet is a spectacular choice to set yourself apart with rich colors deep in symbolism.

Gemstones Too Soft for Daily Wear

As beautiful as gemstones are, not all of them are ideal for the daily wear and tear an engagement ring endures. Softer or more delicate gems are better suited for low-impact jewelry like earrings, necklaces, or bracelets, where they’re less likely to be scratched, chipped, or damaged.

Engagement rings are still designed using these gems; they just require extra care. If you or your partner loves a more delicate gem, it’s essential to remove the ring during hands-on activities (gym, rock-climbing, flying trapeze) and consider mountings that help reduce the risk of damage with the assistance of a professional jewelry consultant with years of experience.

Some examples of these softer gemstones are:

• Opal – Delicate and porous. It can be dried out by excessive heat or sun exposure.
• Pearl – Elegant but very soft. Their luster is easily damaged by perfume or handwash.
• Tanzanite – Striking color, but scratches easily and is prone to chipping on the edges.
• Emerald– Tough but traditionally less brilliant due to internal characteristics.
• Aquamarine– Beautiful and unique, but not as durable as other popular choices like diamonds or sapphires. 

Brinker’s Jewelers Pro Tip: For a stone that lasts, aim for a Mohs hardness of 7.5 or higher

See Us at Brinker’s Jewelers

Our professionals are here to make the ring-buying experience not only easy but enjoyable. Whether you’re starting with no clue or already have a vision in mind, our expert team will guide you in finding (or custom designing) the perfect ring that fits her style and your budget.

Step Two: Planning the Proposal

Remember, you don’t need a full entourage or a professional team to pull off a perfect proposal. Just a good plan, a little heart, and a few key helpers (if needed).

Keep it Authentic

Every couple is different, but what matters most is showing effort—in a meaningful way—in your relationship.
Yes, your goal is to make her happy, but don’t forget yourself in the process! This is your moment, too. Design a proposal that reflects both of you.

Key Questions to Ask Yourself:

• Do you want the moment to be:
  • Public – A big crowd or a picturesque public setting?
  • Intimate – A cozy gathering with family or close friends?
  • Private – Just the two of you in a personal, quiet moment?
• Is there a special location (where you met, first date, vacation spot)?
• Will there be props (signs, candles, decorations)?
  • If outdoors, secure everything—wind is not your friend.
  • If indoors, use battery-powered candles—they’re safe, romantic, and reusable. (Think of reusing them for your wedding!)

Pro Tip: Create a checklist and timeline so you’re not scrambling last-minute.

Step Three: Setting the Mood

You’ve got the ring. You’ve planned the where and the how. Now it’s time to focus on the little details that make the moment truly unforgettable—the atmosphere, the emotion, and those thoughtful touches that speak volumes.

Think Romance by incorporating personal details that reflect her.

Does she like flowers? You could have a bouquet or two of her favorite flowers to frame the scene, hand her a single elegant stem, or have petals scattered around the space for a classic romantic feel. Flowers show thought, care, and attention to detail.

Incorporate Music: Have a meaningful song that symbolizes your relationship underscore the moment. People tend to attach senses to memories; especially smells and sounds. Music playing automatically increases the romance factor and makes the whole moment feel like a scene from a movie. Keep the volume low so she can hear you clearly when you pop the question. 

What to say? What do you want to say when you propose? There’s nothing wrong with simply getting down on one knee and asking, “Will you marry me?”—sometimes, simplicity is powerful. But if you tend to be on the quieter side, this is a beautiful opportunity to express how much she means to you.

Whether it’s a favorite quote, a heartfelt note, playing her a song (if you’re musically inclined), or a short poem, having something prepared can make the moment even more meaningful. Or, if that’s not your style, you can speak from the heart in the moment; there’s no script required.

It doesn’t need to be long or overly rehearsed, either. A short, sincere message goes a long way. What matters most is that it’s honest, personal, and true to your relationship. Be genuine, be yourself, don’t be afraid to be a little vulnerable. Those are often the moments she’ll remember most. People always remember how you make them feel.

Documentation

Do you want the proposal documented? You can:

• Hire a photographer or videographer.
• Ask a friend to secretly film or photograph from a distance.
• Set up a hidden phone or camera if it’s just the two of you.

Kneeling Etiquette: Nailing the Classic Pose

Getting down on one knee is a timeless, powerful gesture, so let’s make sure you feel confident doing it!

 The Basics:

• Drop to your left knee (or whatever feels natural).
• Keep both legs at 90-degree angles— your right foot planted firmly in front, your back straight.
• Avoid slouching or leaning too far forward. Kneel tall and proud, chest open, shoulders relaxed.
• Hold the ring box with both hands or your left hand, and open it with a smooth motion so she sees the ring clearly.
• Look up, make eye contact, smile, and use her name.

Camera-Ready Tips:

• If you’re planning to have someone photograph or film the proposal, make sure the area is well-lit and angle yourself slightly so the moment is visible if someone’s snapping photos.
• Avoid turning your back to the camera (and always FACE the sunset!).

Quick Extras:

• Check your surroundings—no puddles or uneven ground.
• Wear clothes you can kneel in comfortably.
• Practice kneeling until it feels natural.  This is no time to pull a hammy!

Bonus Tip: How to NOT Spoil the Surprise while being a KING

Let’s talk about getting her ready. She would appreciate having her nails done, and the outfit picked out.

Encourage her (subtly) or have her friend/family take her to get a manicure no more than a week before. That way, her nails still look fresh for the post-proposal pics, but you don’t raise suspicion.

Other Sneaky Tips:

• Plan a “fancy date night” to get her dressed up without tipping her off.
• Create a fake excuse for going to a particular location.
• Enlist a sibling or best friend for light distractions or to help keep her schedule open.

Final Thoughts

Proposing is a huge moment, and it deserves care and attention, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. Stay grounded in your love story, remember why you’re taking this step and focus on what makes your relationship unique.

Let us help you get started. Visit us at Brinker’s Jewelers, and we’ll guide you through every detail of this beautiful milestone. Congratulations! We look forward to being a part of your special moment.