How to Propose to Your Partner

The history of engagement rings

• How to combat nerves

  Take deep breaths, visualise the moment, and remind yourself why you’re doing this. Focus on your partner’s joy, not perfection. Keep the ring secure and the setting personal. Confidence comes from preparation, and remember, the emotion is part of the magic.

• How to pre-plan so nothing unforeseen ruins your big moment

  Think logistics: security checks at an airport if you’re proposing abroad, late arrivals to your destination or weather changes. Store the ring discreetly and rehearse your plan if flying. If you’re planning on proposing in certain weather conditions, be sure to check the forecast just before the day, and set off to your proposal destination plenty of time in advance to make sure you arrive on time. 

• Is there anybody else to involve?

  Involving children, pets, or close family adds heartfelt depth. A pet delivering the ring or kids holding signs is unforgettable. Just ensure they’re comfortable and prepped. Their presence makes the moment feel even more like a family milestone, not just yours.

• Requesting their hand in marriage

  Dating back to a time when marriage was regarded more as a contract between two families, tradition dictated that you should approach your future father-in-law to request your partner’s hand in marriage. Although by no means compulsory today, if you get on well with your partner’s family, this can be a lovely proposal tradition to uphold.

• How to keep the proposal a secret

  Keep the circle tight, and only tell who needs to know. Use code words, hide the ring off-site, and act normal. Avoid sudden behaviour changes. If travelling, disguise the reason. Mystery makes magic, so let surprise be your co-conspirator.

• How do you record the moment?

  Capture it discreetly with a hidden phone, tripod, or trusted friend nearby. Afterwards, it can be edited beautifully for Instagram Reels or TikTok, if that’s your thing. Candid emotions resonate most. Remember: it’s not just for views - it’s for reliving one of life’s most special memories.

• Where did engagement rings come from?

  In 1214, the Pope decreed that couples wishing to marry should observe a waiting period before the wedding ceremony. He decided that couples should wear a ring to symbolise their commitment to each other during this waiting period – or as it is known today, an engagement. In those days, the engagement rings were very simple and usually made from base metals.

• Why a diamond engagement ring?

  We have Archduke Maximilian of Austria to thank for this tradition. In 1477, he presented his beloved with a ring featuring a letter ‘M’ spelled out in diamonds. At this time, diamonds were incredibly rare and were thought to possess powers that made them almost magical.

• Why go down on a bended knee?

  Traditionally, proposals involve getting down on one knee, which stems from medieval knights bowing before noblewomen as a show of respect. While some love the romantic symbolism, others prefer a more relaxed or spontaneous moment that feels natural to them. The most important thing is that the proposal feels authentic and personal – whether that means kneeling or not.

• History of the ring finger

  The ring finger is the third finger on the left hand (undoubtedly hard to remember whilst you’re down on one knee). The ancient Egyptians believed that the vein running from this finger leads directly to the heart, and so it has become the traditional finger to wear an engagement ring; a symbol of love and commitment. So romantic!

• Announcing your engagement

  Let your joy shine! Post a close-up of the ring, a sweet video, or a candid moment post-“yes.” Use trending sounds or a custom voiceover. Share the story behind the proposal to make it personal. And remember to tag us @beaverbrooksthejewellers, we love seeing your special moments!

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• Leap year proposals

  According to an Irish legend, once every four years on Leap Day, women are allowed to take matter into their own hands and make a marriage proposal. In the Middle Ages, laws stated that if a man refused a Leap Year proposal, he would have to buy the lady 12 pairs of gloves as a penalty. We don’t believe you have to wait to take control ladies! Take note from some of these inspiring and famous women who proposed and took matters into their own hands.

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