How do I choose the ring? With or without her?
The first decision is whether to shop alone or together. This depends on how you decide to "pop the question."
Some choose to shop together, to be certain that the ring design is perfect. As well, decisions such as what metal to use (Gold or Platinum), what ring size and how high to set the diamond can be determined beforehand, taking the guess work out of the process.
On the other hand, shopping alone permits the element of romantic surprise. For many, this is an important part of giving an engagement ring. As one humorist says, "It's the last decision you get to make." You get to choose the diamond and design, which you feel she will love, and you get to choose when to give her the ring as well. Don't be afraid of making wrong decisions about the ring design. All can be corrected later if the ring size is off a bit, or the design is not quite what she likes. As long as you are prepared for this, let the romance begin!
If you wish to spend three times as long searching for a ring, visit more stores than necessary, travel far distances in search of the perfect ring, get more confused than is humanly possible and listen to more advice than you can stand, then bring your mothers, sisters and friends along. Remember, the ring is from you to her. It is about you and the love and commitment it symbolizes. It's not rocket science. It does not need to be a difficult decision.
At Jeff Walters Diamonds, we have this unwritten, "Don't worry if she doesn't like it" policy. Simply speaking, if for any reason, the ring you give her is still not what she had in mind, then let her come in and design it herself. There is no charge for this and it truly is our pleasure. This policy usually is enough to calm even the most nervous at heart.
Shopping for an engagement ring should be both fun and exciting. The process is full of love and devotion and should be held this way by the two of you. So whether you shop together or you choose to surprise her, remember the meaning behind it all.
