AT-HOME PROPOSAL – HERE’S HOW TO CREATE A SUPER ROMANTIC ONE 

So, you were planning on popping the question. And then, Covid-19 happened. If you’ve already gotten a ring, you can still go forward with your engagement plans. If not, explore your options online with a personal Virtual Ring Concierge. Or, given these uncertain times, you may even want to move forward without bling and purchase rings together once this is all over. In fact, as someone whose husband proposed one morning in bed—while I was still wearing my retainer, no less—I can say with some authority that getting engaged privately is just as romantic as the most orchestrated, planned out public proposal would be.

Don’t let the quarantine screw up your desire to take your relationship to the next level. (We’ve all given up enough already, amiright?) Instead, follow these tips and pop the question right at home. You won’t regret it.

Prepare Your Words
Proposing at home may mean less fanfare than you were expecting. But this is actually a good thing. When you’re down on one knee in your own living room, you strip down your proposal to what really matters: the meaning behind your decision to pop the question. Instead of spending time on logistics, you get the chance to really choose your words carefully. Sure, this can be a bit scary (hello, vulnerability!) if you’re not typically one to wear your heart on your sleeve. But in these confusing and, let’s be honest, scary times, the one thing we can really cling to is our love for one another. The state of the world may feel uncertain but there is no doubt about your commitment. So, make the most of this unique moment by sharing those deep feelings you have.

Create Ambiance
If you want to schedule your proposal, you can set the tone without too much legwork (or else your partner may get suspicious that something’s up). You don’t have to do much to create ambiance for your at-home proposal. Just clean up your space, pull out whatever candles you have—or just dim the lights!—and pick some flowers from your backyard or from around your neighborhood the next time you go out for some fresh air. Or, you might consider making your main squeeze breakfast in bed and proposing over coffee and scrambled eggs. Whatever speaks to you, your routine and your daily life—got for it. Make it feel organic and true to you two as a couple.

Seize the Perfect Moment
If you want to be a little spontaneous, go for it. However, I wouldn’t recommend going full-on surprise! with your proposal—be a bit selective about your timing. When you’re spending a lot of time at home, chances are you aren’t getting dressed to the nines every day. (You may even miss a shower here or there—we won’t judge!) Your partner may want to feel at least somewhat polished when you pop the question. So, if you’d rather be flexible about when you propose, just make sure that you catch your soon-to-be-fiancé at a good moment.

Film It
Since you won’t be able to hire a photographer to capture the moment—and come on, now, not everyone has the budget for that anyway!—you can set up your phone or computer to record the moment on the sly. This is probably not something you could easily do while proposing outside of your home, so think of this option as a quarantine perk. Set it all up while your partner is on a work call, brushing their teeth or is otherwise distracted.

Video Call the Fam
Finally, once you’ve proposed, you’ll want to share your news with your nearest and dearest after you’ve celebrated the moment with each other. Since you’re at home, there’s no pressure to get yourselves out to a post-engagement party and socialize—you can just chill and enjoy each other’s company. But, you can set up a Zoom call with your respective parents, grandparents, BFFs—whoever you want to join you, when you’re ready. This virtual celebration will be meaningful and love-filled as everyone gets to relish in the happy news.

The post Create A Romantic At-Home Proposal appeared first on Robbins Brothers Blog.

Social media phenom, Mike Worthington from Texas, is a proud father who created an Instagram account a few years ago for him and his daughter Asia. The daddy-daughter duo not only take the most heartwarming photos together, but he’s also become an expert at styling Asia’s hair. In one really sweet video clip, Mike gives Asia a pedicure and kisses her foot when she says it hurts. He’s even taught her how to line the seat with toilet paper when using a public bathroom (ahh giving us all the feels, right?).

Soon after launching his Instagram page-Ice Mike Love Asia-which the online community embraced immediately, Mike was pleasantly surprised with a direct message (DM) from a young woman named Kapree. The two met in person the following week and the rest is history. Mike shared, “I couldn’t get my mind off her. She brought out a side of me that I didn’t know existed. That’s when I knew I was falling in love.”

When Mike was ready to take their relationship to the next level, he visited the Robbins Brothers Dallas store and worked with Brittany to find the perfect engagement ring for Kapree. He knew she loves diamond halo rings and decided on a gorgeous style from the exclusive Robbins Brothers Utwo collection. If you like Kapree’s ring, you may also like these similar halo ring designs.

Once Mike picked the ring, he worked with the store’s Perfect Proposals concierge team to plan a memorable surprise marriage proposal. Kapree’s birthday is on Nov. 26 so he collaborated with Robbins Brothers and III Forks Restaurant to host a birthday dinner for her with family and friends. As the ring was served on a dessert platter leaving everyone in awe, Mike asked Kapree to be his wife! Needless to say SHE SAID YES!

Mike then presented his daugther Asia with a 14K white gold diamond heart necklace to symbolize their love for each other as a new family unit. It was a picture perfect night filled with tears of joy and much gratitude just in time for Thanksgiving.

We asked the newly engaged couple how they plan to spend the holidays: “Last year we started a new ritual and celebrated at the Gaylord Hotel in Grapevine. We’ll celebrate there on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and the day after. Family time is everything to us!”

If you’re planning a proposal or hoping for one, check out our handy proposal guides. For a destination proposal, see the top picks from our proposal ambassadors.

The post Real Proposal Stories: Love At First DM appeared first on Robbins Brothers Blog.

As holiday proposals go, this time of year has a magical quality. Whether it’s the twinkling lights against the snow or cuddling with your loved one sipping hot chocolate, for many it makes sense to add to the romantic feels with a holiday proposal.

Cosmopolitan’s recently published article 13 Ways to Plan the Best Christmas Proposal Ever suggests some key options for a successful holiday proposal. Here are some of our favorites that will help you along the way.

1) Do not wait until the last minute to avoid rush fees, obtain access to more inventory and allow you to special order your engagement ring which can take up to six weeks. Dan Decker, guest support manager at Robbins Brothers, says the primary reason why you’d need more time is for customization of the ring; switching the metal type, ordering a specific size, etc. Along with this sound advice, our expert team of engagement experts is here to help you through a shortened planning window along with some proposal planning checklists to keep you on task.

2) Save some money for resizing that ring! More often than not, Dan says the ring you chose will need to be adjusted, altered, or customized. Be sure to set some of your budget aside to alter that brilliant engagement ring after the holiday proposal if needed.

3) If you’re short on time or just want to be sure you get a ring she loves, consider selecting a “single stone or classic solitaire”; also known as the “Will You” ring. This type of ring is the easiest to set and allows you AND your future bride to pick a setting together that is perfect. We offer an array of solitaire diamonds that fit every budget and all plans for a successful holiday proposal.

4. Don’t wait for Black Friday deals. As Cosmopolitan points out, “Diamonds, gold, and platinum have an inherent value on the market. So if something is on sale for 50% off, it was likely 50% overpriced to begin with…” Why wait when we can help with our great finance offers NOW!!

5. Make sure to find time alone. Whether the engagement is a private affair, or one that includes friends and family, it’s important to make some time for the two of you. Be sure to steal some alone time either during the holiday proposal or after to create an intimate memory.

If you’re planning a proposal, check out our proposal guides for help. If you need more inspiration on unique holiday proposals we can help with that too. Check out some perfect Robbins Brothers proposals with special rings from our fabulous selection of designer engagement rings on our website or on Pinterest.

The post A Holiday Proposal Planning Guide appeared first on Robbins Brothers Blog.

Location is everything, right? Our proposal ambassadors, Alex and Liana, just completed their first assignment in Seattle, Washington in search of the best, most romantic places to pop the question. Here’s what they discovered in the Emerald city…

Why it’s romantic – Though the romance in Seattle may not jump out and hit you in the face, there is something to be said about sad rainy days. There’s a nostalgia about cuddling up by a fire while the rain pitter patters on the window outside. Getting cozy with the loved one brings a sense of romance in those times!

Why it’s proposal perfect – What makes Seattle proposal perfect is all the incredible nature the city has to offer! You can head down any logging road and end up at a beautiful proposal perfect destination.

Why they’ll love it – Seattle is loved for a few main reasons: (1) The Great Outdoors (2) the great coffee and (3) Seattle is a melting pot of cultures which has created an incredible food scene.

Why it’s perfect for photos and vids – There are so many beautiful and “Instagrammable” spots in the greater Seattle area. Because of the bodies of water and mountains that surround the area, there are “view” spots everywhere.

Why they’ll say “yes” – Because the coffee running through their veins will put them in the best mood they’ve ever been in 🙂

Cons – The weather is unpredictable and can really rain on your parade (literally). Takes a lot of planning if it is not in the summer months (July-September).

Perfect for – An outdoorsy couple who loves a good view and good food

Rating – 6.5/10 kisses

Without further ado and in no particular order, the top places to propose in Seattle are…

Kerry Park
With the most spectacular view of Seattle, Kerry Park will be the perfect place to knock her socks off with that massive rock and then whisk her off to a nice dinner at one of the fine establishments nearby.

Gold Creek Pond
Perched at the top of Snoqualmie Pass and just across the freeway from the ski resort, this hidden little gem is full of surprises. For one, when we came to visit at the end of April, there was still a couple feet of snow on the ground, which of course made it even more magical. It’s serene, secluded, and the perfect spot for a proposal. It’s perfect for the nature lover who doesn’t like long hikes but instead would prefer a romantic picnic.

Deception Pass
About an hour and a half drive north of Seattle, this is the perfect proposal spot for the adventurer! With lots of hiking trails, the Puget Sound and little mountains to climb, it’s easy to make a fun day of exploring up here. Be sure to stop by the Shrimp Shack for some fish and chips or just a couple pounds of shrimp for peeling on the shore. There are incredible views from the top of the bridge, but the real magic is down below at Deception Pass State Park where you can see the bridge from the shores of the Puget Sound!

Newcastle Golf Course
With views of both Seattle and Bellevue from up here, a little putt putt would be a great lighthearted activity before you reach into one of the cups and pull out your engagement ring! There is also a great restaurant for you to celebrate your ultimate win just above the golf course at the club house (or castle).

Waterway Cruises
Book in advance and ask for a table upstairs as this is a perfect, romantic and fancy spot to pop the big question! You will be entertained by the captain narrating the cruise, pointing out the house of Bill Gates, Jeff Bezos and lots of other fun stuff, while you have a fine 3 course dinner with beautiful views. Cruise by Downtown Bellevue, Mount Rainier and finish up with a sunset over downtown Seattle, which would be the perfect spot to propose.

To see more romantic spots in Seattle, visit A Family’s World.

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If you’re reading this, chances are you’re in the process of asking a particular question to the love of your life. So, let me start by saying- cheers to you, my friend. This is a monumental moment in your relationship and a story you’ll tell your friends, family and possibly your children, one day. No, I’m not trying to scare you, just keeping you well informed. As a veteran engagement expert and realist romantic, I know how overwhelming this experience may be, and I’m here to assuage your fears with a few essential tips on how to propose.

Have Something to Present

The Knot recently conducted a survey that asked more than 19,000 couples what they considered to be the biggest mistake when proposing marriage. The #1 answer, “asking empty-handed.” Yes, the commitment to spend the rest of your lives together is worth more than jewelry, but the truth is, the engagement may not feel 100% real without the act of slipping something on their finger. Plus, you’ll need to have something to show your loved ones once you share the great news. If you’re uncertain of what style to choose, propose with an heirloom piece, a diamond solitaire ring or band, and shop for a ring together afterward.

Asking for Their Hand

Is asking for “permission” a dated tradition? Perhaps. But do you want to test that theory? You know your partner better than anyone else, so you know whether this holds value. Note that I placed the word “permission” in quotes because you are grown individuals and do not require Mom and Dad to say “Yes.” But more importantly, to obtain their blessing.

Keep it Quiet

Call me conservative, but a proposal should be kept under wraps until you’re down on one knee. Yes, a few key individuals will be in the loop, but be cognizant of who you tell. The last thing you want is Uncle Billy blabbing to loud mouth, Cousin Lee, who shares the news with the whole family. The fam may do an excellent job of keeping it from your soon to be fiancé, but the last thing he/she wants is to be the last one to know about it.

Location is Everything

Despite common misconceptions, a proposal has more significance when the location holds sentimental value to the couple. If your partner hasn’t explicitly voiced the desire for an over-the-top, elaborate marriage proposal – it likely isn’t necessary. Instead, select a location where a memorable moment occurred; a favorite date spot, the setting of your first “I love you,” your first home together or a scenic vacation spot. Just be true to you as a couple, and it will be romantic.

Timing is Key

Be sensitive to the surrounding circumstances that can influence your partner’s mood. If she/he is stressed out from deadlines at work, has the flu, or sad because Sparky, the family dog, is missing, it may not be the best time. Yes, the ring may be burning a hole in your pocket, but you’ve already waited this long, what’s another couple of days?

Write Down What You Want to Say

Before you kneel down before them, put down what you want to say on a piece of paper. Think of crucial moments when you realized that you wanted to spend the rest of your life with your significant other. Then, just as you would for any speech, practice saying it out loud, so it sounds natural and not rehearsed. Many people think they can wing it, but winging can go awry. If you forget everything you practiced the day of, speak from the heart; vulnerability is a beautiful thing.

Plan a Celebration

You’re engaged. Finally. This moment belongs to the both of you. It is one of the most intimate experiences you’ll share with another human, so make it last. Savor it. Consider orchestrating an evening or fun-filled day for the two of you after the “YES!” Once you’ve taken it all in, then you can invite relatives and friends over to cheers to your love. This is the calm before the storm- wedding planning is no joke, and there is no need to rush.

The post 7 Essential Tips On How To Propose appeared first on Robbins Brothers Blog.

By proposal planners, The Yes Girls

Are you planning a marriage proposal just in time for Valentine’s Day? We realize it can be a little stressful but don’t fret. We’ve helped plan over 3000 proposals and based on our experience, the following guide comprises five handy dos and don’ts that will lead you to the perfect proposal!

Do make it meaningful.
Have a favorite quote, song lyrics or nicknames for each other? Have those thoughtful words written in calligraphy on a wooden sign, window, canvas, wine glasses, etc. for your proposal! Cliche signs that read, “Will you marry me” are perfect for the proposal, but become a little useless after that. Something more unique and meaningful to your relationship (like song lyrics) can be displayed in your home together forever!

Don’t assume they would want it to be done in public.
Is your loved one an introvert or extrovert? Assess their tolerance for being center of attention. If they are typically on the shy side and/or like lots of alone time, the LAST thing you will want is to make them uncomfortable in a crowd. On the other hand, if they are very open and love being around lots of people, perhaps something grand and public would be ideal for them!

Do consider including family, friends, or a day-of planner.
If her mom or best friend is always involved in your loved one’s life-milestone, then consider involving them in the proposal. And remember, they don’t necessarily have to be watching the proposal to be “involved”–they can be waiting at a restaurant afterwards to celebrate with you! Additionally, the last thing you want on proposal day is the photographer, venue, florist, etc. texting and calling you all day while setting off alarm bells with your future-fiance. It’s best to hire a proposal planner to handle those phone calls. If you can’t afford to hire a professional, then ask a friend or future sis-in-law!

Don’t forget to think about what you both will be wearing.
Make sure you both feel your best dressed for this occasion. Wear an outfit that coordinates well with your decor, something that makes you feel comfortable yet classy, and always be yourself. If you are not the type of guy to wear a full suit, then do not change that! You do not want to set off any alarms. Furthermore, if your gal has always mentioned wanting her nails perfectly manicured for the proposal, then ask a friend to invite her out for a mani-pedi a few days before (nothing too suspicious, but just a casual gals day).

Do come up with a ruse.
A few suggestions of ways to get her to the proposal location without raising suspicion: ask a friend to plan a double-date and “conveniently” cancel last minute, create a fake work event, or pretend you have to stop at “x” before dinner because your job asked you to pick up or drop off something. Ultimately you know her the best, so think of something that seems normal to help keep it a surprise.

Don’t forget to practice what you want to say.
It is assumed, and sweet, that guys get a little nervous when they say their “marriage proposal speech” so do not be hard on yourself. Practicing out loud in front of a mirror will help you to remember what to say in the nerve-racking moment! It feels silly, but it really is worth running through the speech a couple of times.

Do capture photos.
If you’re hiring a photographer or videographer to capture your special moment (we highly recommend having one or the other, if not both), then stay down on one knee for at least 15 seconds when you’re asking the question so that the photographer can capture the iconic shot! Also consider the best shots are taken during “Golden Hour” which is within an hour of sunset.

Don’t forget to insure her ring…
Even though your jeweler probably told you to obtain a protection plan for her ring, we are going to say it too. Definitely invest in insurance coverage in the case of loss or theft of the ring. And don’t forget the warranty that comes along with it. Sadly we have heard stories where the ring is too big and it slips off in the midst of everyday life. Most reputable jewelers offer a lifetime guarantee on manufacturer defects. Some even cover normal wear and tear issues such as tightening loose stones, future size adjustments of the band, or rhodium plating.

Do remember to keep the ring safe and hidden.
There are many places you can hide the ring, but one cool option is the Box Sock–the pocket sock that hides your ring box! Gals are more aware and snoopy than ever when it comes to the proposal, so to keep your ring secure and the proposal a surprise, you can hide it in the pocket sock versus in your jacket or pant pocket (she will notice). If you’re still searching for the perfect engagement ring, take a look at what designs Robbins Brothers has to offer.

Don’t Sweat It.
Factor in extra time to get her to your desired proposal location. You’ll want to avoid feeling annoyed on your special day if she is running behind or you hit unforeseen traffic. Getting upset can make her suspicious especially if you normally are more “easygoing” with timing. The most important part of the whole day is the fact that in the end you will be ENGAGED!

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