The Ultimate Guide to the
Perfect Proposal

A proposal is one of the most exciting times of your life; a memory your loved one will cherish forever. It’s all about creating a moment that’s as unique as your bond – your inside jokes, your time together, those unforgettable moments that took your breath away. Here’s how to pull it all together.
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Step 1: What to Know Before Proposing

Before getting down on one knee, do some soul-searching to make sure you’re ready for this lifelong commitment. Think of all the things that made you fall in love and start visualising your future together. Feeling excited? You’re now ready to pop the question you’ve dreamed about since you first laid eyes on them. Snap pics of their favourite rings to show to a jeweller, or perhaps ask their close friend to create a Pinterest board along with your loved one.

Step 2: The Perfect Romantic Proposal


The best proposals reflect your years together. Think of your partner’s likes, passions, and hobbies and key moments in your relationship - where you met, your first date, or a place that’s significant to both of you. Incorporating these places or memories will make the moment even more heartfelt. What would make your partner most comfortable? Big gestures or something more intimate? If the proposal is a surprise, have a fake game plan in place - perhaps a trip together to make it one for the books!

Perfect Ways to Pop the Question

What to pack: Your speech, a picnic blanket, lots of water, champagne, candles, sunscreen, a charcuterie board and other snacks. Don’t forget the ring!

For the Outdoorsy Partner

A surprise proposal at a scenic hiking spot, next to a bustling waterfall or a cosy beach picnic will be the perfect setting.

For the partner who loves For
art or culture

At a museum, art gallery or the planetarium will be meaningful. Most museums or planetariums will be happy to arrange a behind-the-scenes tour. Or, take a painting class and recreate the special moments you’ve shared together. Hang them in the gallery, around a romantic dinner setting.

For the partner who prefers an
intimate setting

Choose a romantic location with personal significance - where you had your first date, your favourite restaurant or a spot they’ve always wanted to visit. Add meaningful details like their favourite flowers, meal and music, or have a treasure hunt with your favourite moments together – a plane ticket from your first holiday, a movie ticket, your messages etc.

Step 3: Choose the
Perfect Engagement Ring

At the heart of your most unforgettable moment is the perfect engagement ring. It will be worn for a lifetime, so make sure it feels just as special as the occasion itself. Consider your partner’s style. Are they classic, trendy, or more unique? Do they wear Gold or Silver? Minimalist, or bold statement pieces? Do they prefer a Diamond or a significant birthstone? The correct ring size is also a small detail to express that you know them well. Be discreet - ‘borrow’ a ring from their existing collection and compare it to a measuring guide. If you’re not that stealth, check out our handy size guide.

Step 4: The Presentation

Once you have the perfect proposal idea and the stunning ring, it’s time to think about how to present it. Include a personal message with your proposal - a keepsake you can both glance at for years to come. Surprise them with a carefully crafted speech and make sure it reflects your love story. And don’t forget a photographer to document this special occasion.

Step 5: Consider the Aftercare

After the proposal make sure the ring is sized properly and consider insuring it for peace of mind. You may also purchase a jewellery cleaning kit to keep the ring as sparkling as the day you proposed. Finding the right engagement ring is important, and the best rings are those that reflect your partner’s personality and style. At Sterns, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to finding a timeless symbol of your love and commitment for an unforgettable proposal.

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