Engagement parties have long been a tradition that couples indulge in before getting married. However, younger Canadians have been putting a unique spin on this custom in recent years by throwing surprise engagement parties. This can be a great way to delight the happy couple and show them how much their connection means to their family and friends. Still, you need to go about the process in the right manner for it to work. Review this guide and gain more perspective on how to properly throw a surprise engagement party.
Ask the Right Preliminary Questions
Before you do anything else, you need to ask yourself a handful of questions about the couple. Namely, you must consider whether or not they will appreciate being surprised. Some people absolutely hate surprises, especially individuals who like to have a lot of control over their lives. If the couple likes to meticulously plan every detail of their routine without change, then you may want to nix the idea of surprising them. You should also consider whether the guests can keep a secret. If you’re working with people who love to gossip, you may want to consider other options.
Create the Guest-list For The Engagement Party
Next, you need to figure out who will be invited to the party. This can be a tricky step, especially if you don’t know all the people the couple would want present at the event. Since you cannot ask the couple without giving away the secret, you must work with other friends and family members to put together a succinct list. You must be very careful with who you invite, as custom dictates people who are invited to the engagement party must also be invited to the wedding. Be thorough to avoid any awkward situations for the couple.
Pick a Place
One of the more challenging aspects of planning a surprise engagement party is selecting a location. Opting for a venue like a restaurant can make it easier to figure out food and drink concerns, but it also can be more expensive and limit how many guests you can invite. The popular alternative younger Canadians have been taking advantage of in recent years is hosting the party at someone’s home. This can help to create a relaxed and welcoming environment for everyone. If you decide to use a venue, be sure to book the space at least three months in advance.
Plan Activities At Your Engagement Party
To make the event more personal, you may wish to include a variety of activities. Specifically, it can be a good idea to plan games that are centered around the couple and their relationship. For example, you can create a list of questions about the couple and have all of the guests answer them to the best of their abilities. When the answers are read aloud, it can make for a fun and hilarious experience as the couple learns who knows the most about them. Look at sites like Pinterest for more inspiration on party games.
Figure Out the Final Plan
Once you have all of the details figured out, you must create a plan for the day of the party. How are you going to get the couple to the venue without giving away the secret? Will someone be in charge of spending time with the couple beforehand so that they make it to the venue in a timely manner? You may also want to consider having guests park their vehicles away from the venue where the party is being held. This will help to keep the party a total surprise until the last possible moment.
Throw a Wonderful Engagement Party
While surprise engagement parties have become a popular trend among younger Canadians, a lot of work goes into planning such events. As long as you’re prepared to handle all the details, a surprise party can be a wonderful way to celebrate a special couple.
For Canadian couples who are either engaged or considering it, an engagement party is a great way to start the wedding festivities. This party is widely thought to be the official start of a couple’s wedding, even if the actual date of the nuptials is far off. Although this pre-wedding event is not usually as formal as a rehearsal dinner or the actual wedding, a little planning can go a long way into making an engagement party all the more special.
Exploring the History of Engagement Parties
The tradition of an engagement party goes as far back as Ancient Greece, where this event was part of an oral contract between the groom and the father of the bride. In Western culture, such a celebration appeared as a typical shindig where a bride’s parents made a surprise announcement to attendees that their daughter was to tie the knot. As a result, engagement parties historically don’t involve giving presents. Today’s gatherings are known as celebrations of an engaged couple’s happiness. They may be thrown by the bride’s parents, other family members, friends or even the couple to be wed.
Picking a Date
Although there’s no set rule as to when the festivities must be held, typically the party should be thrown within a few months of the actual proposal. The engagement should be fairly new when you inform loved ones of the celebration. If there are attendees who live far away, you’ll want to give them plenty of time to make arrangements to come.
Handling Invitations
Engagement party invitations don’t need to be as formal as that of a wedding. You can go old-school with mailed cards or take advantage of a wedding website and social media to spread the word. Creating an event on a platform like Facebook or using sites such as Zazzle to make and send ecards leverages the power of technology to inform loved ones of the event. Invitations, whether printed or digital, don’t need to match a wedding theme, especially if you haven’t yet gotten to that part of nuptials planning.
Choosing a Location
Because this pre-wedding event doesn’t have to be very formal, there are several options for this gathering:
House of a friend, family member or your own: Home is where the heart is, and where’s a better place to celebrate pledging love to another person than a home? This environment is familiar, comfortable and relaxed.
Private room at a favorite restaurant: If you or your partner have a restaurant you enjoy, see if it has a private room you can use. Depending on the number of attendees, those celebrating can order food off the menu or a prix fixe option might be more your speed. Did you and your partner meet at a particular place? Throwing your engagement party there can make it extra special.
Rented hall or public space: A large number of guests may require a venue such as an event hall, neighborhood clubhouse or country club space.
Wherever you hold the event, remember that it’s not supposed to outshine your actual wedding ceremony.
Planning Activities For Your Engagement Party
It’s important to remember that the engagement party isn’t like a bridal shower or other pre-wedding events that might involve gifts. Some attendees may bring presents, so you should have a space to collect those, but opening them shouldn’t be a scheduled activity. This is the time to eat, drink, be merry and introduce friends and family to one another. Laid-back group games are perfectly fine for such an event. You and others may feel compelled to share well wishes, but formal toasts aren’t required.
Congratulations to you and your partner, or some near-and-dear ones who you’re planning for. An engagement party is a lovely way to start the countdown to a big day ahead. It can be as laid-back and fuss-free as you make it.
After getting engaged, couples want to share the news. Outside of the general announcement to friends and family, many will also pay for a photoshoot to celebrate the moment. Engagement photos can help provide you with cute pics you can incorporate into your invitations, wedding website, and other items related to your big day. Naturally, you might have a few questions before your photoshoot arrives. Specifically, you might want to know what to wear. Use these tips to guide you and put together an appropriate outfit for this fun planning activity.
The EngagementPictures Represent Your Relationship
Before getting into the specifics of what you should wear, it can be useful to think about the purpose of the photos. The pictures aren’t just about looking happy and smiling together. The entire aesthetic of the shoot should cut to the heart of your relationship. Everything from the setting to the lighting to the color choices will play into the feel of the final images. What you wear should be born out of the decisions you make about the general mood of the pictures and the style you agree upon with the photographer.
Work With the Photographer
On the subject of your photographer, it can be a good idea to work with this expert when making decisions about your wardrobe. Photographers have an eye for composition, color, and other elements that make for amazing images. Certain colors have a way of popping in particular environments. If you’re planning on taking pictures in a very lush and verdant environment, for example, your photographer will likely suggest avoiding any green tones that will blend into the scenery. Once your photographer offers some input, you can begin curating an outfit.
Focus on the Specific Season
A vast majority of engagement pictures are taken outdoors. Regardless of the season, it seems couples are all too happy to jump into nature for pictures no matter what temperature it is outside. If you plan on following suit, you’ll definitely want to think about how you’re dressed. A cute and thin outfit may make for some nice photos, but it is definitely not worth getting frostbite if you’re shooting in the dead of January. Dress appropriately for the season by layering or wearing an outfit that helps to keep you warm until the pics are being taken.
In the thick of spring and summer, you’re likely to experience the opposite problem. When it is unbearably hot outdoors, you may feel like wearing certain materials can lead you to break into a sweat. Some people also deal with frizzy hair and other problems related to humidity levels. The trick here is makeup and hair product. If you know the heat will cause you and your partner to start looking like sweaty, greasy messes, find concealer that will keep you both looking dry and comfortable. It is amazing what a little makeup can do.
Follow the Latest Trends
Every year sees new trends appear in the world of engagement photos. If you’re not sure what direction to take your own shoot, give yourself the chance to explore a handful of the latest trends. While you don’t have to use any of the ideas you come across, it can get your wheels turning and help you get a better idea of what you do and don’t want from your own experience. If nothing else, you might start to get some outfit inspiration from looking at a variety of photoshoots.
Though engagement photos are by no means a requirement while planning a wedding, plenty of couples find the act to be a sweet way of spreading the joy. Don’t overthink the shoot too much, as you’ll have plenty to stress over as you plan for your big day.
Many people assume that planning a wedding begins after a couple gets engaged. However, this isn’t exactly the protocol anymore. Nowadays, it is more common for couples to have a preliminary discussion about engagement instead of it happening by surprise. This gives people the chance to plan ahead and make the decision at a time when it works best financially, emotionally, and mentally. It also provides a bit of a head start on planning responsibilities. If you’ve recently had a discussion about engagement, you may want to get your wheels in motion.
Review these suggestions on planning steps to take before your engagement happens. Though you won’t be doing any of the heavy lifting just yet, these preliminary moves can get you excited.
Put Together Inspiration
Some people start planning their nuptials when they’re little. If you’re someone who has never thought about your ideal wedding, however, you may not want to wait until your engagement to start looking for inspiration. The internet is a treasure trove of images, videos, and blog posts that can offer you a wealth of planning ideas. The moment you realize an engagement is on the horizon, start putting together a collection of images that capture what you want your event to look like.
Decide How and When To Announce the News
The practice of announcing news to family and friends has changed considerably since the dawn of social media. Some people can’t wait to get on Facebook or Instagram after getting engaged, ready to let the whole world know about this milestone moment. This is not the case for everyone, of course. You might want to use the pre-engagement period as an opportunity to discuss this topic with your partner. Decide if and when you will put the news online, and establish a small list of the family and friends you want to tell immediately when the decision is made.
Shop for Small Things
Though people get married all throughout the year, there are months that are more popular for such events to take place. This means that you’re more likely to see high prices on essential event items during the time dubbed “wedding season.” If you know you’ll be working on a limited budget, buy whatever you think you could get for a good price in advance. Simple purchases like stationery for invitations or favors for members of the wedding party can help you save a small chunk of change later on.
Write Out Your Thoughts
The time before you get engaged can be unique. Life is about to change in some dramatic ways, and you may have a ton of thoughts swirling around in your mind. Instead of moving forward without reflection, use this period as a chance for introspection. Write out your thoughts in this moment, including any feelings you have about the future. Include both positive points and any concerns you might have. You may never look at this writing again, but dedicating time to your own thoughts before a big decision can be useful.
Take Chances
You’re going to be spending a lot of money on your wedding. With this in mind, use the last days before your engagement as an opportunity to take chances you won’t be able to afford later. Go on a lavish vacation, purchase an item that you’ve had your eye on for years, or commit to a luxury option like a spa trip. You don’t want to drain your savings, of course. The idea is to have a little fun before a lifetime of responsibility.
Engagement is a big step for a couple. To feel like you’re on the right track for your future, prepare for this change in advance by tackling some simple planning tasks.
Can anyone predict the right time to marry? In recent months, much has been written about the wedding boom expected to unfold this year. Waning pandemic restrictions combined with two years of pent-up demand have set the stage for an explosive year for Canada’s wedding industry. While this is certainly a cause for celebration, it comes at a time when Canadians appear to be rethinking their views on marriage altogether.
Canadian census data indicates a dramatic decline since 1996 in marriage rates among young people. Twenty years ago, nearly 40% of Canadians aged 20–29 were legally married. Since then, the marriage rate among this cohort has steadily declined. The most recent data indicates that around 1 in 5 of Canadian twenty-somethings has legally tied the knot. This data is consistent with a broader trend across the developed world. Young people are marrying later and less frequently than ever before. Economists, sociologists, and religious bodies have all voiced concerns about the trend. While alarming to some, these numbers may simply indicate a shift in perspective rather than a collapse of tradition.
The Other Side of the Story
It is easy to focus on the downtrend in legal marriage alone. However, drawing conclusions based on this alone ignores a broader narrative. The decline in married young couples is complemented by an equally dramatic rise in the number of common-law marriages. Thus, this data does not indicate the desire to forego long-term romantic partnerships entirely. Rather, it indicates young Canadians’ desire to validate their partnership on their own terms instead of through religious institutions or the state.
Cardus, a Canadian research firm, set out to gather more context on the motivations behind the demographic shifts around marriage attitudes. The study included couples who are legally married, couples who intend to marry, and long-term couples with no intention to marry. The findings were eye-opening.
Why Do We Marry?
Since marriage is a pillar of social and economic life, it can be very easy to take for granted. So easy, in fact, that seldom are couples asked about the why behind their decision. The data collected in the Cardus study posed this very question first. The participants who were legally married overwhelmingly cited “proof of love and commitment” as their primary motivation. For couples who intend to marry, “proof of love and commitment” accounted for a whopping 50% of reasoning.
This is striking because this reasoning outperformed “cultural, moral, and religious beliefs” by a 2:1 ratio. In a Western context, marriage has been socially enforced in many instances. Even among young people, there appears to be a shift in that perspective.
So Why Not Marry?
The story for long-term unmarried couples is different. However, it reflects many of the same attitudes. Nearly 65% of unmarried couples indicated that they had no intention to wed because their current arrangement was acceptable as it stood, or that they did not believe in the institution of marriage.
Considering that the couples surveyed are in long-term partnerships, it’s safe to say that they too value love and commitment. Yet they don’t feel the need to validate their love for one another through the traditional channels anymore. Many argue that this could be the pathway to more fruitful relationships between young couples.
Love and commitment are intrinsically beautiful things. For many, though, marriage as an institution can feel attached to coercive power dynamics, social status, and economic advancement. For younger couples, a “back to basics” approach appears to be developing. There seems to be a rejection of the belief that marriage is a necessary task. Rather it is an embrace of the belief that pursuing love and commitment is about spiritual fulfillment above all else. Thus, the decline in marriage rates may indicate an expansion of our understanding of marriage into something more grand than an “institution.”
While there are countless problems that can arise between the moment two people get engaged and the day they walk down the aisle, there are some issues that have plagued couples for generations. Rain on your wedding day, for example, is more than just a lyric from an Alanis Morissette song. It is a very real problem that can threaten to throw your big day into a tizzy. You might not be able to control the weather via an app on your phone, but you can think ahead to find solutions.
The Season and Location Matter
Rain does not just happen without warning. While sudden storms can occur, most wet weather can be predicted by meteorologists based on key factors. For example, the time of year and region make a huge difference in the probability of inclement conditions. Someone getting married during spring in Seattle is going to be dealing with a much higher probability of rain than someone tying to tie the knot in Arizona during the summer. The higher the odds of rain on the date you plan on holding your event, the more thought you should put into your contingency plan.
The Easy Idea: Tents
One of the most effective ways of planning for rain when you are hosting an outdoor wedding is by renting tents. These ingenious inventions have been lifesavers for event planners of all varieties over the decades, as an enclosed space can be erected in a fast and useful way. In order for you to use this solution, you will need to coordinate with the venue manager and learn more about how you can make arrangements to have the tents put up should there be a call for cloudy skies.
The Expensive Idea: Consider A Indoor SpaceIf There Is Rain
While tents can offer an easy solution, some people would rather not be outside in any capacity if rain appears. No matter how protected you are from above, the ground is likely still going to absorb some water. This creates mud and makes any temporary flooring you lay down uneven. Though it might not be the most affordable solution, putting a deposit down on a backup venue is the only true way to make sure you have somewhere indoors to go if the rain comes down hard.
The Musts: CoordinationIs Key If There Is Rain In The Forecast
No matter what you decide to do when rain comes along, your choice is going to impact more than just you and your partner. Everyone who is planning on being present at your event needs to be notified as soon as you make a decision. Guests will need to know if there is a backup plan so they know where to go and can plan accordingly. Similarly, the vendors you have hired will not know where to bring their wares if you make a plan for rainfall and don’t keep them in the loop.
The Little Things
If only the ceremony is going to be held outside or the rain is scheduled to pass quickly, then there are some little changes you can make to make everyone more comfortable. Giving out umbrellas to guests and vendors is a great way to reduce the odds of the rain getting anyone’s nice clothes or wares wet. Giving out protective shoe coverings is also a smart move, as a lot of your guests will be wearing some of their finest footwear when attending your event. These small gestures can make your guests feel more comfortable in no time.
The world requires rainfall on a routine basis for life to thrive. However, getting wet while celebrating a monumental occasion like a wedding is enough to make anyone upset. Avoid this scenario entirely by coming up with contingencies for how to respond when the forecast calls for rain. With enough effort, you will have no trouble devising a plan that covers all your bases.
Gender roles often seem quite peculiar in modern life. When it comes to weddings, there are dozens upon dozens of tasks associated with the groom and the bride. More often than not, these responsibilities have nothing to do with a person’s actual abilities and more about antiquated notions surrounding customs. Proposing, for example, has long been a job thrust upon men. Naturally, this responsibility creates confusion in LGBT relationships and most modern heterosexual romances where the man and woman play equal parts. While there’s nothing unusual about a woman popping the question, there are questions that might need answering.
Know How To Take Charge
Like many marital customs, the task of proposing typically fell on men because women were frequently forced into passive roles in a marriage. Though these old notions have fallen away for the most part, the rituals live on as relics of these bygone times. Men nowadays will take on the task of proposing simply because it is expected. However, there are countless couples who have opted to flip the script. No matter what you want from your relationship, taking charge and proposing should always come from a place of love and involve a lot of communication.
If you know your partner is not ready to get hitched and you decide to surprise him with a sudden proposal at a public event, you could be sowing the seeds of your relationship’s destruction. Talking about the idea of marriage before making any concrete decisions is the best way to maintain a healthy connection with your partner.
Think About What You Both Want
By design, romantic relationships are fraught with complicated questions and time-sensitive decisions. With a potential engagement, you need to sit with your own thoughts and consider the future. Are you ready for this level of commitment, or are you simply caught up in the intoxication love can bring? Outside of your own feelings, you must talk openly with your partner about what he or she desires. Again, deciding to put your significant other on the spot without consulting about future goals can be a disaster.
Consider the Ego Factor
Even men with open minds fall prey to bruised egos from time to time. While your partner might be open to every aspect of gender equality, he still could feel slighted if you decide to pop the question. This is another reason why a preliminary discussion can be beneficial. Your partner shouldn’t allow himself to be overcome with petty emotions, but it can save yourself a headache to talk about his stance on the matter early. You know your partner better than anyone, so you should be able to figure out an appropriate way to approach the topic.
Determine the “How”
Once you feel confident that proposing is the right choice, you can tackle the “how” of it all. This is a fun task, as you can start to get as creative or personal as you’d like. The future of your relationship begins when you get down on a proverbial knee, so consider what setting and tone make sense for your love story. From isolated beach settings to surprise parties with family and friends, there are endless locations to explore.
Remove Proposing Perfection
Taking on the task of proposing can put a lot of pressure on you. In the age of Instagram and Pinterest, it is easy to get caught up in the notion that your engagement needs to be worthy of sharing on social sites. Though it might be stressful, remember that you don’t need to make the moment perfect for anyone other than you and your partner.
Though popping the question has long been viewed as a man’s job, modern relationships often ditch these old roles for more progressive options. Figure out what works best for your partner and you to come up with a plan that satisfies you both.
The first year of marriage can be a tricky one. Thankfully, surviving it with your partner is not a complicated endeavor. Consider these tips.
The time leading up to your wedding can be a chaotic period. With so much planning to do, you may not consider what life will be like after you’ve tied the knot. The first year of marriage can be a tricky one. There are a number of adjustments you are going to need to make in order to accommodate your new status as a couple. Thankfully, surviving the first year of marriage is not a complicated endeavor. Consider these tips to gain a little bit of insight on how to make this year an enriching one.
Conflicts Will Happen
It stands to reason that you and your significant other have already gotten into a few fights before deciding to get married. Conflict is a natural part of any relationship. For some reason, however, many couples become a lot more concerned about arguments after getting married. Though it may feel like fighting is going to put you on the path to divorce, this isn’t the case. How you handle the conflicts, however, can and will dictate the future of your relationship. Learn to pick and choose your battles. This is the best way to avoid unnecessary squabbles.
Communicate
A great way to reduce conflicts and enjoy your first year of marriage is by communicating. More often than not, problems in a relationship develop when two people are no longer on the same page. Unfortunately, it is easy to fall into the wrong habits with your spouse. When you both work long days, you may not feel like discussing relationship topics when you’re together after work. This might force you to push off issues that need attention. By focusing on open communication, you and your significant other will be able to understand where the other is coming from.
Be a Partner
During your first year together, you and your spouse will be learning how to properly support each other. Understanding how to be an actual partner to your significant other is a process of trial and error. Everyone has different needs and emotional requirements when it comes to relationships. The way you prefer to be comforted when you’re upset may be very different than what your spouse requires. The trick is paying attention and understanding the best way to provide support when it is needed from you.
Include Family
Marrying a person means you are marrying his or her entire family. This can often be a point of contention. If either of you has intense family members who cause a lot of drama or are very needy, you can’t take it out on each other. Keep communication open and mention when you feel like a family member is being too much. You also need to be receptive to criticism from your significant other about your own family. Be mindful of the way your relatives behave and the demands they place on your relationship.
Stay Physical
Physical contact is wildly important to keeping a relationship alive and healthy. While you don’t need to have sex every night, it can be good to try and be physical with one another when possible. Endless studies have shown a consistent sex life can keep the fire burning in a relationship. Get into a groove that makes sense for your own schedules during the first year of marriage, and learn how to keep romance alive for years to come.
Practice Patience
Finally, learn how to practice patience. People who are slow to anger are usually a lot easier to deal with. If you fly off the handle at every little thing, it will only cause unneeded stress in your relationship.
Surviving your first year of marriage is no small venture. Get into the right habits by following these tips, and you will be able to discover the best way to keep your love alive.
Engagements rings are a long-held matrimonial tradition. However, it’s worth considering a few key factors before you drop any cash on an engagement ring.
How much do Canadian couples spend on engagement rings? According to a March 2016 Global News article, the average cost for each one is around $4,700. After including the typical event and honeymoon costs, the total price tag for a wedding can reach almost $40,000. Cutting expenses can be challenging for couples who want to tie the knot. That’s why it’s worth considering a few key factors before you drop any cash on an engagement ring.
Behind the Engagement Ring “Rules”
You may have heard of the supposed “rules” for buying engagement rings. Depending on who you ask, the ring should cost either two or three times one’s monthly salary. Statistics Canada’s 2017 figures revealed that the average weekly salary is around $986. That means the typical Canadian earns almost $4,000 per month before deductions. With these figures, following the oft-repeated rule on rings results in a price tag between $8,000 and $12,000.
How did these modern engagement ring purchasing practices develop? Money Under 30’s David Weliver divulges that they originated with a shrewd marketing campaign launched by the London-based diamond company De Beers. He also contends that they aren’t practical for younger couples because of typical debt burdens and lower salaries. To lower costs, he suggests a few alternatives:
Pay for the ring with cash.
Select a family heirloom piece.
Choose gemstones that are less expensive than diamonds.
Pros and Cons of Financing Your Ring
If there’s no room in your budget to purchase an engagement ring in full, you may be tempted to finance it. Your credit history will determine the types of offers you receive along with spending limits and interest rates. Individuals with favorable credit can choose from many options:
Personal loans
Vendor’s credit cards or revolving credit lines
Major credit cards issued by financial institutions
At the same time, you’ll need to think about how this new debt will impact your upcoming marriage. NerdWallet’s Erin El Issa points out that each spouse is liable for individually incurred debts. This is true regardless of whether they originated before or after the wedding. Yet those debts still affect the couple’s overall financial health. A significant debt load can make it difficult to purchase a home together, contribute to a savings account, or plan for retirement.
In another Money Under 30 article, David Weliver offers suggestions for people desiring to purchase engagement rings on credit. While he still warns readers not to buy rings that they cannot afford, he discusses some favorable financing options. Some jewelry retailers may offer 0 percent financing or no interest and payments for a predetermined time period. Weliver strongly suggests reviewing each offer’s terms. With some, you’ll pay a much higher interest rate after the promotional period expires.
Depending on your credit score, you may qualify for cards that come with 0 percent interest on new purchases for up to one year. Be sure you know what your new APR will be. Also, you should assess whether you can pay off the ring before the promotion ends. Purchase your ring from a reliable online jeweler. Buying online could save you a significant amount of money, letting you spend as little as 50 percent of the brick-and-mortar retailer price. Make sure you request a shipment method with tracking and a signature requirement as well as insurance to cover the ring itself.
Choose Your Credit Options Carefully
In the past, society judged a man’s ability to provide for his future wife by the type of engagement ring he gave her. It’s true that some still take notice at an elaborate ring with a decent-sized diamond. Ultimately, you must consider the effects of purchasing one either with cash or credit. After all, part of your goal should be making smart decisions for your joint financial future.
When selecting an engagement ring, there are many other beautiful stones to consider besides the traditional diamond ring.
For years, diamonds have remained the most popular stones when it comes to engagement rings. It’s easy to see why. The dazzling beauty of a diamond can be difficult to match. Still, these rocks are ridiculously expensive and the ways that they are acquired are not always ethical. If you feel weird about “blood diamonds” or just don’t find this particular stone to be aesthetically pleasant, you might feel like you don’t know what to do when it comes time to select the right engagement ring for your significant other.
Though it can feel like diamond engagement rings are the only path to take, you might find comfort in the fact that other stones have been increasing in popularity in recent years. Give yourself a moment to explore some of these alternatives, and see if you can land on a ring option that holds significance and keeps your conscience clear.
Sapphire Skies
Diamonds might be “forever,” but there are plenty of happy couples who are more interested in the bluish hue of the sapphire. In fact, those interested in following royal weddings might already be aware of this fact. The engagement rings for Princess Diana and Kate Middleton were both made from blue sapphires. You don’t need to be involved with royalty to opt for sapphires, either. The ring holds personal significance to people born in September, as it is the month’s birthstone, and it also is said to contain other mystical properties.
Since the days of the Persian Empire, sapphires have been thought to hold magical significance. The Persians believed sapphires were the reason the sky was blue and felt that the color connection symbolized the stone’s deep ties to heaven. By wearing a ring made of sapphire, a person was said to have a special place waiting for them in heaven. Whether you find the lore appealing or you think the stone is just beautiful, you might find sapphires a better fit than diamonds for your personal wedding goals.
Emerald Affairs
Sapphires might be beautiful, but their color may not be for you. If you want something that steps away and makes a bolder statement, emeralds might be a good fit for your ring. These dazzling green stones are as beautiful to look at as they are to learn about. According to a number of cultural beliefs, emeralds are worn by those who have a deeper understanding of the world. Individuals who are born with intuitive abilities are usually drawn to emeralds, as these stones are said to contain prophetic powers.
Whether or not you have visions of the future, an emerald stone might be an ideal fit for your engagement ring needs. The beautiful, green shade of the stone can be a nice change of pace from traditional whites and blues. Beyond this, the idea that the stone is meant for those with “great vision” can be interpreted in a number of romantic ways.
Ruby Road
Finally, to go to an even more interesting extreme, you may want to think about an engagement ring set with a ruby. A huge contrast to the white of a diamond, the red of a ruby can signify deep passion. Red is a bold color that most people will notice right away. By opting for a ring with this beautiful stone front and center, you are sending a message of deep, unyielding love to anyone who notices it.
When selecting an engagement ring, it is important to remember that diamonds are not the only stone worth your time. Explore all of your options with stones, and you are likely to find a winning fit that matches you and your significant other and the bonds you share.
Engagement parties have long been a tradition that couples indulge in before getting married. However, younger Canadians have been putting a unique spin on this custom in recent years by throwing surprise engagement parties. This can be a great way to delight the happy couple and show them how much their connection means to their family and friends. Still, you need to go about the process in the right manner for it to work. Review this guide and gain more perspective on how to properly throw a surprise engagement party.
Ask the Right Preliminary Questions
Before you do anything else, you need to ask yourself a handful of questions about the couple. Namely, you must consider whether or not they will appreciate being surprised. Some people absolutely hate surprises, especially individuals who like to have a lot of control over their lives. If the couple likes to meticulously plan every detail of their routine without change, then you may want to nix the idea of surprising them. You should also consider whether the guests can keep a secret. If you’re working with people who love to gossip, you may want to consider other options.
Create the Guest-list For The Engagement Party
Next, you need to figure out who will be invited to the party. This can be a tricky step, especially if you don’t know all the people the couple would want present at the event. Since you cannot ask the couple without giving away the secret, you must work with other friends and family members to put together a succinct list. You must be very careful with who you invite, as custom dictates people who are invited to the engagement party must also be invited to the wedding. Be thorough to avoid any awkward situations for the couple.
Pick a Place
One of the more challenging aspects of planning a surprise engagement party is selecting a location. Opting for a venue like a restaurant can make it easier to figure out food and drink concerns, but it also can be more expensive and limit how many guests you can invite. The popular alternative younger Canadians have been taking advantage of in recent years is hosting the party at someone’s home. This can help to create a relaxed and welcoming environment for everyone. If you decide to use a venue, be sure to book the space at least three months in advance.
Plan Activities At Your Engagement Party
To make the event more personal, you may wish to include a variety of activities. Specifically, it can be a good idea to plan games that are centered around the couple and their relationship. For example, you can create a list of questions about the couple and have all of the guests answer them to the best of their abilities. When the answers are read aloud, it can make for a fun and hilarious experience as the couple learns who knows the most about them. Look at sites like Pinterest for more inspiration on party games.
Figure Out the Final Plan
Once you have all of the details figured out, you must create a plan for the day of the party. How are you going to get the couple to the venue without giving away the secret? Will someone be in charge of spending time with the couple beforehand so that they make it to the venue in a timely manner? You may also want to consider having guests park their vehicles away from the venue where the party is being held. This will help to keep the party a total surprise until the last possible moment.
Throw a Wonderful Engagement Party
While surprise engagement parties have become a popular trend among younger Canadians, a lot of work goes into planning such events. As long as you’re prepared to handle all the details, a surprise party can be a wonderful way to celebrate a special couple.
For Canadian couples who are either engaged or considering it, an engagement party is a great way to start the wedding festivities. This party is widely thought to be the official start of a couple’s wedding, even if the actual date of the nuptials is far off. Although this pre-wedding event is not usually as formal as a rehearsal dinner or the actual wedding, a little planning can go a long way into making an engagement party all the more special.
Exploring the History of Engagement Parties
The tradition of an engagement party goes as far back as Ancient Greece, where this event was part of an oral contract between the groom and the father of the bride. In Western culture, such a celebration appeared as a typical shindig where a bride’s parents made a surprise announcement to attendees that their daughter was to tie the knot. As a result, engagement parties historically don’t involve giving presents. Today’s gatherings are known as celebrations of an engaged couple’s happiness. They may be thrown by the bride’s parents, other family members, friends or even the couple to be wed.
Picking a Date
Although there’s no set rule as to when the festivities must be held, typically the party should be thrown within a few months of the actual proposal. The engagement should be fairly new when you inform loved ones of the celebration. If there are attendees who live far away, you’ll want to give them plenty of time to make arrangements to come.
Handling Invitations
Engagement party invitations don’t need to be as formal as that of a wedding. You can go old-school with mailed cards or take advantage of a wedding website and social media to spread the word. Creating an event on a platform like Facebook or using sites such as Zazzle to make and send ecards leverages the power of technology to inform loved ones of the event. Invitations, whether printed or digital, don’t need to match a wedding theme, especially if you haven’t yet gotten to that part of nuptials planning.
Choosing a Location
Because this pre-wedding event doesn’t have to be very formal, there are several options for this gathering:
House of a friend, family member or your own: Home is where the heart is, and where’s a better place to celebrate pledging love to another person than a home? This environment is familiar, comfortable and relaxed.
Private room at a favorite restaurant: If you or your partner have a restaurant you enjoy, see if it has a private room you can use. Depending on the number of attendees, those celebrating can order food off the menu or a prix fixe option might be more your speed. Did you and your partner meet at a particular place? Throwing your engagement party there can make it extra special.
Rented hall or public space: A large number of guests may require a venue such as an event hall, neighborhood clubhouse or country club space.
Wherever you hold the event, remember that it’s not supposed to outshine your actual wedding ceremony.
Planning Activities For Your Engagement Party
It’s important to remember that the engagement party isn’t like a bridal shower or other pre-wedding events that might involve gifts. Some attendees may bring presents, so you should have a space to collect those, but opening them shouldn’t be a scheduled activity. This is the time to eat, drink, be merry and introduce friends and family to one another. Laid-back group games are perfectly fine for such an event. You and others may feel compelled to share well wishes, but formal toasts aren’t required.
Congratulations to you and your partner, or some near-and-dear ones who you’re planning for. An engagement party is a lovely way to start the countdown to a big day ahead. It can be as laid-back and fuss-free as you make it.
After getting engaged, couples want to share the news. Outside of the general announcement to friends and family, many will also pay for a photoshoot to celebrate the moment. Engagement photos can help provide you with cute pics you can incorporate into your invitations, wedding website, and other items related to your big day. Naturally, you might have a few questions before your photoshoot arrives. Specifically, you might want to know what to wear. Use these tips to guide you and put together an appropriate outfit for this fun planning activity.
The EngagementPictures Represent Your Relationship
Before getting into the specifics of what you should wear, it can be useful to think about the purpose of the photos. The pictures aren’t just about looking happy and smiling together. The entire aesthetic of the shoot should cut to the heart of your relationship. Everything from the setting to the lighting to the color choices will play into the feel of the final images. What you wear should be born out of the decisions you make about the general mood of the pictures and the style you agree upon with the photographer.
Work With the Photographer
On the subject of your photographer, it can be a good idea to work with this expert when making decisions about your wardrobe. Photographers have an eye for composition, color, and other elements that make for amazing images. Certain colors have a way of popping in particular environments. If you’re planning on taking pictures in a very lush and verdant environment, for example, your photographer will likely suggest avoiding any green tones that will blend into the scenery. Once your photographer offers some input, you can begin curating an outfit.
Focus on the Specific Season
A vast majority of engagement pictures are taken outdoors. Regardless of the season, it seems couples are all too happy to jump into nature for pictures no matter what temperature it is outside. If you plan on following suit, you’ll definitely want to think about how you’re dressed. A cute and thin outfit may make for some nice photos, but it is definitely not worth getting frostbite if you’re shooting in the dead of January. Dress appropriately for the season by layering or wearing an outfit that helps to keep you warm until the pics are being taken.
In the thick of spring and summer, you’re likely to experience the opposite problem. When it is unbearably hot outdoors, you may feel like wearing certain materials can lead you to break into a sweat. Some people also deal with frizzy hair and other problems related to humidity levels. The trick here is makeup and hair product. If you know the heat will cause you and your partner to start looking like sweaty, greasy messes, find concealer that will keep you both looking dry and comfortable. It is amazing what a little makeup can do.
Follow the Latest Trends
Every year sees new trends appear in the world of engagement photos. If you’re not sure what direction to take your own shoot, give yourself the chance to explore a handful of the latest trends. While you don’t have to use any of the ideas you come across, it can get your wheels turning and help you get a better idea of what you do and don’t want from your own experience. If nothing else, you might start to get some outfit inspiration from looking at a variety of photoshoots.
Though engagement photos are by no means a requirement while planning a wedding, plenty of couples find the act to be a sweet way of spreading the joy. Don’t overthink the shoot too much, as you’ll have plenty to stress over as you plan for your big day.
Many people assume that planning a wedding begins after a couple gets engaged. However, this isn’t exactly the protocol anymore. Nowadays, it is more common for couples to have a preliminary discussion about engagement instead of it happening by surprise. This gives people the chance to plan ahead and make the decision at a time when it works best financially, emotionally, and mentally. It also provides a bit of a head start on planning responsibilities. If you’ve recently had a discussion about engagement, you may want to get your wheels in motion.
Review these suggestions on planning steps to take before your engagement happens. Though you won’t be doing any of the heavy lifting just yet, these preliminary moves can get you excited.
Put Together Inspiration
Some people start planning their nuptials when they’re little. If you’re someone who has never thought about your ideal wedding, however, you may not want to wait until your engagement to start looking for inspiration. The internet is a treasure trove of images, videos, and blog posts that can offer you a wealth of planning ideas. The moment you realize an engagement is on the horizon, start putting together a collection of images that capture what you want your event to look like.
Decide How and When To Announce the News
The practice of announcing news to family and friends has changed considerably since the dawn of social media. Some people can’t wait to get on Facebook or Instagram after getting engaged, ready to let the whole world know about this milestone moment. This is not the case for everyone, of course. You might want to use the pre-engagement period as an opportunity to discuss this topic with your partner. Decide if and when you will put the news online, and establish a small list of the family and friends you want to tell immediately when the decision is made.
Shop for Small Things
Though people get married all throughout the year, there are months that are more popular for such events to take place. This means that you’re more likely to see high prices on essential event items during the time dubbed “wedding season.” If you know you’ll be working on a limited budget, buy whatever you think you could get for a good price in advance. Simple purchases like stationery for invitations or favors for members of the wedding party can help you save a small chunk of change later on.
Write Out Your Thoughts
The time before you get engaged can be unique. Life is about to change in some dramatic ways, and you may have a ton of thoughts swirling around in your mind. Instead of moving forward without reflection, use this period as a chance for introspection. Write out your thoughts in this moment, including any feelings you have about the future. Include both positive points and any concerns you might have. You may never look at this writing again, but dedicating time to your own thoughts before a big decision can be useful.
Take Chances
You’re going to be spending a lot of money on your wedding. With this in mind, use the last days before your engagement as an opportunity to take chances you won’t be able to afford later. Go on a lavish vacation, purchase an item that you’ve had your eye on for years, or commit to a luxury option like a spa trip. You don’t want to drain your savings, of course. The idea is to have a little fun before a lifetime of responsibility.
Engagement is a big step for a couple. To feel like you’re on the right track for your future, prepare for this change in advance by tackling some simple planning tasks.
Can anyone predict the right time to marry? In recent months, much has been written about the wedding boom expected to unfold this year. Waning pandemic restrictions combined with two years of pent-up demand have set the stage for an explosive year for Canada’s wedding industry. While this is certainly a cause for celebration, it comes at a time when Canadians appear to be rethinking their views on marriage altogether.
Canadian census data indicates a dramatic decline since 1996 in marriage rates among young people. Twenty years ago, nearly 40% of Canadians aged 20–29 were legally married. Since then, the marriage rate among this cohort has steadily declined. The most recent data indicates that around 1 in 5 of Canadian twenty-somethings has legally tied the knot. This data is consistent with a broader trend across the developed world. Young people are marrying later and less frequently than ever before. Economists, sociologists, and religious bodies have all voiced concerns about the trend. While alarming to some, these numbers may simply indicate a shift in perspective rather than a collapse of tradition.
The Other Side of the Story
It is easy to focus on the downtrend in legal marriage alone. However, drawing conclusions based on this alone ignores a broader narrative. The decline in married young couples is complemented by an equally dramatic rise in the number of common-law marriages. Thus, this data does not indicate the desire to forego long-term romantic partnerships entirely. Rather, it indicates young Canadians’ desire to validate their partnership on their own terms instead of through religious institutions or the state.
Cardus, a Canadian research firm, set out to gather more context on the motivations behind the demographic shifts around marriage attitudes. The study included couples who are legally married, couples who intend to marry, and long-term couples with no intention to marry. The findings were eye-opening.
Why Do We Marry?
Since marriage is a pillar of social and economic life, it can be very easy to take for granted. So easy, in fact, that seldom are couples asked about the why behind their decision. The data collected in the Cardus study posed this very question first. The participants who were legally married overwhelmingly cited “proof of love and commitment” as their primary motivation. For couples who intend to marry, “proof of love and commitment” accounted for a whopping 50% of reasoning.
This is striking because this reasoning outperformed “cultural, moral, and religious beliefs” by a 2:1 ratio. In a Western context, marriage has been socially enforced in many instances. Even among young people, there appears to be a shift in that perspective.
So Why Not Marry?
The story for long-term unmarried couples is different. However, it reflects many of the same attitudes. Nearly 65% of unmarried couples indicated that they had no intention to wed because their current arrangement was acceptable as it stood, or that they did not believe in the institution of marriage.
Considering that the couples surveyed are in long-term partnerships, it’s safe to say that they too value love and commitment. Yet they don’t feel the need to validate their love for one another through the traditional channels anymore. Many argue that this could be the pathway to more fruitful relationships between young couples.
Love and commitment are intrinsically beautiful things. For many, though, marriage as an institution can feel attached to coercive power dynamics, social status, and economic advancement. For younger couples, a “back to basics” approach appears to be developing. There seems to be a rejection of the belief that marriage is a necessary task. Rather it is an embrace of the belief that pursuing love and commitment is about spiritual fulfillment above all else. Thus, the decline in marriage rates may indicate an expansion of our understanding of marriage into something more grand than an “institution.”
While there are countless problems that can arise between the moment two people get engaged and the day they walk down the aisle, there are some issues that have plagued couples for generations. Rain on your wedding day, for example, is more than just a lyric from an Alanis Morissette song. It is a very real problem that can threaten to throw your big day into a tizzy. You might not be able to control the weather via an app on your phone, but you can think ahead to find solutions.
The Season and Location Matter
Rain does not just happen without warning. While sudden storms can occur, most wet weather can be predicted by meteorologists based on key factors. For example, the time of year and region make a huge difference in the probability of inclement conditions. Someone getting married during spring in Seattle is going to be dealing with a much higher probability of rain than someone tying to tie the knot in Arizona during the summer. The higher the odds of rain on the date you plan on holding your event, the more thought you should put into your contingency plan.
The Easy Idea: Tents
One of the most effective ways of planning for rain when you are hosting an outdoor wedding is by renting tents. These ingenious inventions have been lifesavers for event planners of all varieties over the decades, as an enclosed space can be erected in a fast and useful way. In order for you to use this solution, you will need to coordinate with the venue manager and learn more about how you can make arrangements to have the tents put up should there be a call for cloudy skies.
The Expensive Idea: Consider A Indoor SpaceIf There Is Rain
While tents can offer an easy solution, some people would rather not be outside in any capacity if rain appears. No matter how protected you are from above, the ground is likely still going to absorb some water. This creates mud and makes any temporary flooring you lay down uneven. Though it might not be the most affordable solution, putting a deposit down on a backup venue is the only true way to make sure you have somewhere indoors to go if the rain comes down hard.
The Musts: CoordinationIs Key If There Is Rain In The Forecast
No matter what you decide to do when rain comes along, your choice is going to impact more than just you and your partner. Everyone who is planning on being present at your event needs to be notified as soon as you make a decision. Guests will need to know if there is a backup plan so they know where to go and can plan accordingly. Similarly, the vendors you have hired will not know where to bring their wares if you make a plan for rainfall and don’t keep them in the loop.
The Little Things
If only the ceremony is going to be held outside or the rain is scheduled to pass quickly, then there are some little changes you can make to make everyone more comfortable. Giving out umbrellas to guests and vendors is a great way to reduce the odds of the rain getting anyone’s nice clothes or wares wet. Giving out protective shoe coverings is also a smart move, as a lot of your guests will be wearing some of their finest footwear when attending your event. These small gestures can make your guests feel more comfortable in no time.
The world requires rainfall on a routine basis for life to thrive. However, getting wet while celebrating a monumental occasion like a wedding is enough to make anyone upset. Avoid this scenario entirely by coming up with contingencies for how to respond when the forecast calls for rain. With enough effort, you will have no trouble devising a plan that covers all your bases.
Gender roles often seem quite peculiar in modern life. When it comes to weddings, there are dozens upon dozens of tasks associated with the groom and the bride. More often than not, these responsibilities have nothing to do with a person’s actual abilities and more about antiquated notions surrounding customs. Proposing, for example, has long been a job thrust upon men. Naturally, this responsibility creates confusion in LGBT relationships and most modern heterosexual romances where the man and woman play equal parts. While there’s nothing unusual about a woman popping the question, there are questions that might need answering.
Know How To Take Charge
Like many marital customs, the task of proposing typically fell on men because women were frequently forced into passive roles in a marriage. Though these old notions have fallen away for the most part, the rituals live on as relics of these bygone times. Men nowadays will take on the task of proposing simply because it is expected. However, there are countless couples who have opted to flip the script. No matter what you want from your relationship, taking charge and proposing should always come from a place of love and involve a lot of communication.
If you know your partner is not ready to get hitched and you decide to surprise him with a sudden proposal at a public event, you could be sowing the seeds of your relationship’s destruction. Talking about the idea of marriage before making any concrete decisions is the best way to maintain a healthy connection with your partner.
Think About What You Both Want
By design, romantic relationships are fraught with complicated questions and time-sensitive decisions. With a potential engagement, you need to sit with your own thoughts and consider the future. Are you ready for this level of commitment, or are you simply caught up in the intoxication love can bring? Outside of your own feelings, you must talk openly with your partner about what he or she desires. Again, deciding to put your significant other on the spot without consulting about future goals can be a disaster.
Consider the Ego Factor
Even men with open minds fall prey to bruised egos from time to time. While your partner might be open to every aspect of gender equality, he still could feel slighted if you decide to pop the question. This is another reason why a preliminary discussion can be beneficial. Your partner shouldn’t allow himself to be overcome with petty emotions, but it can save yourself a headache to talk about his stance on the matter early. You know your partner better than anyone, so you should be able to figure out an appropriate way to approach the topic.
Determine the “How”
Once you feel confident that proposing is the right choice, you can tackle the “how” of it all. This is a fun task, as you can start to get as creative or personal as you’d like. The future of your relationship begins when you get down on a proverbial knee, so consider what setting and tone make sense for your love story. From isolated beach settings to surprise parties with family and friends, there are endless locations to explore.
Remove Proposing Perfection
Taking on the task of proposing can put a lot of pressure on you. In the age of Instagram and Pinterest, it is easy to get caught up in the notion that your engagement needs to be worthy of sharing on social sites. Though it might be stressful, remember that you don’t need to make the moment perfect for anyone other than you and your partner.
Though popping the question has long been viewed as a man’s job, modern relationships often ditch these old roles for more progressive options. Figure out what works best for your partner and you to come up with a plan that satisfies you both.
The first year of marriage can be a tricky one. Thankfully, surviving it with your partner is not a complicated endeavor. Consider these tips.
The time leading up to your wedding can be a chaotic period. With so much planning to do, you may not consider what life will be like after you’ve tied the knot. The first year of marriage can be a tricky one. There are a number of adjustments you are going to need to make in order to accommodate your new status as a couple. Thankfully, surviving the first year of marriage is not a complicated endeavor. Consider these tips to gain a little bit of insight on how to make this year an enriching one.
Conflicts Will Happen
It stands to reason that you and your significant other have already gotten into a few fights before deciding to get married. Conflict is a natural part of any relationship. For some reason, however, many couples become a lot more concerned about arguments after getting married. Though it may feel like fighting is going to put you on the path to divorce, this isn’t the case. How you handle the conflicts, however, can and will dictate the future of your relationship. Learn to pick and choose your battles. This is the best way to avoid unnecessary squabbles.
Communicate
A great way to reduce conflicts and enjoy your first year of marriage is by communicating. More often than not, problems in a relationship develop when two people are no longer on the same page. Unfortunately, it is easy to fall into the wrong habits with your spouse. When you both work long days, you may not feel like discussing relationship topics when you’re together after work. This might force you to push off issues that need attention. By focusing on open communication, you and your significant other will be able to understand where the other is coming from.
Be a Partner
During your first year together, you and your spouse will be learning how to properly support each other. Understanding how to be an actual partner to your significant other is a process of trial and error. Everyone has different needs and emotional requirements when it comes to relationships. The way you prefer to be comforted when you’re upset may be very different than what your spouse requires. The trick is paying attention and understanding the best way to provide support when it is needed from you.
Include Family
Marrying a person means you are marrying his or her entire family. This can often be a point of contention. If either of you has intense family members who cause a lot of drama or are very needy, you can’t take it out on each other. Keep communication open and mention when you feel like a family member is being too much. You also need to be receptive to criticism from your significant other about your own family. Be mindful of the way your relatives behave and the demands they place on your relationship.
Stay Physical
Physical contact is wildly important to keeping a relationship alive and healthy. While you don’t need to have sex every night, it can be good to try and be physical with one another when possible. Endless studies have shown a consistent sex life can keep the fire burning in a relationship. Get into a groove that makes sense for your own schedules during the first year of marriage, and learn how to keep romance alive for years to come.
Practice Patience
Finally, learn how to practice patience. People who are slow to anger are usually a lot easier to deal with. If you fly off the handle at every little thing, it will only cause unneeded stress in your relationship.
Surviving your first year of marriage is no small venture. Get into the right habits by following these tips, and you will be able to discover the best way to keep your love alive.
Engagements rings are a long-held matrimonial tradition. However, it’s worth considering a few key factors before you drop any cash on an engagement ring.
How much do Canadian couples spend on engagement rings? According to a March 2016 Global News article, the average cost for each one is around $4,700. After including the typical event and honeymoon costs, the total price tag for a wedding can reach almost $40,000. Cutting expenses can be challenging for couples who want to tie the knot. That’s why it’s worth considering a few key factors before you drop any cash on an engagement ring.
Behind the Engagement Ring “Rules”
You may have heard of the supposed “rules” for buying engagement rings. Depending on who you ask, the ring should cost either two or three times one’s monthly salary. Statistics Canada’s 2017 figures revealed that the average weekly salary is around $986. That means the typical Canadian earns almost $4,000 per month before deductions. With these figures, following the oft-repeated rule on rings results in a price tag between $8,000 and $12,000.
How did these modern engagement ring purchasing practices develop? Money Under 30’s David Weliver divulges that they originated with a shrewd marketing campaign launched by the London-based diamond company De Beers. He also contends that they aren’t practical for younger couples because of typical debt burdens and lower salaries. To lower costs, he suggests a few alternatives:
Pay for the ring with cash.
Select a family heirloom piece.
Choose gemstones that are less expensive than diamonds.
Pros and Cons of Financing Your Ring
If there’s no room in your budget to purchase an engagement ring in full, you may be tempted to finance it. Your credit history will determine the types of offers you receive along with spending limits and interest rates. Individuals with favorable credit can choose from many options:
Personal loans
Vendor’s credit cards or revolving credit lines
Major credit cards issued by financial institutions
At the same time, you’ll need to think about how this new debt will impact your upcoming marriage. NerdWallet’s Erin El Issa points out that each spouse is liable for individually incurred debts. This is true regardless of whether they originated before or after the wedding. Yet those debts still affect the couple’s overall financial health. A significant debt load can make it difficult to purchase a home together, contribute to a savings account, or plan for retirement.
In another Money Under 30 article, David Weliver offers suggestions for people desiring to purchase engagement rings on credit. While he still warns readers not to buy rings that they cannot afford, he discusses some favorable financing options. Some jewelry retailers may offer 0 percent financing or no interest and payments for a predetermined time period. Weliver strongly suggests reviewing each offer’s terms. With some, you’ll pay a much higher interest rate after the promotional period expires.
Depending on your credit score, you may qualify for cards that come with 0 percent interest on new purchases for up to one year. Be sure you know what your new APR will be. Also, you should assess whether you can pay off the ring before the promotion ends. Purchase your ring from a reliable online jeweler. Buying online could save you a significant amount of money, letting you spend as little as 50 percent of the brick-and-mortar retailer price. Make sure you request a shipment method with tracking and a signature requirement as well as insurance to cover the ring itself.
Choose Your Credit Options Carefully
In the past, society judged a man’s ability to provide for his future wife by the type of engagement ring he gave her. It’s true that some still take notice at an elaborate ring with a decent-sized diamond. Ultimately, you must consider the effects of purchasing one either with cash or credit. After all, part of your goal should be making smart decisions for your joint financial future.
When selecting an engagement ring, there are many other beautiful stones to consider besides the traditional diamond ring.
For years, diamonds have remained the most popular stones when it comes to engagement rings. It’s easy to see why. The dazzling beauty of a diamond can be difficult to match. Still, these rocks are ridiculously expensive and the ways that they are acquired are not always ethical. If you feel weird about “blood diamonds” or just don’t find this particular stone to be aesthetically pleasant, you might feel like you don’t know what to do when it comes time to select the right engagement ring for your significant other.
Though it can feel like diamond engagement rings are the only path to take, you might find comfort in the fact that other stones have been increasing in popularity in recent years. Give yourself a moment to explore some of these alternatives, and see if you can land on a ring option that holds significance and keeps your conscience clear.
Sapphire Skies
Diamonds might be “forever,” but there are plenty of happy couples who are more interested in the bluish hue of the sapphire. In fact, those interested in following royal weddings might already be aware of this fact. The engagement rings for Princess Diana and Kate Middleton were both made from blue sapphires. You don’t need to be involved with royalty to opt for sapphires, either. The ring holds personal significance to people born in September, as it is the month’s birthstone, and it also is said to contain other mystical properties.
Since the days of the Persian Empire, sapphires have been thought to hold magical significance. The Persians believed sapphires were the reason the sky was blue and felt that the color connection symbolized the stone’s deep ties to heaven. By wearing a ring made of sapphire, a person was said to have a special place waiting for them in heaven. Whether you find the lore appealing or you think the stone is just beautiful, you might find sapphires a better fit than diamonds for your personal wedding goals.
Emerald Affairs
Sapphires might be beautiful, but their color may not be for you. If you want something that steps away and makes a bolder statement, emeralds might be a good fit for your ring. These dazzling green stones are as beautiful to look at as they are to learn about. According to a number of cultural beliefs, emeralds are worn by those who have a deeper understanding of the world. Individuals who are born with intuitive abilities are usually drawn to emeralds, as these stones are said to contain prophetic powers.
Whether or not you have visions of the future, an emerald stone might be an ideal fit for your engagement ring needs. The beautiful, green shade of the stone can be a nice change of pace from traditional whites and blues. Beyond this, the idea that the stone is meant for those with “great vision” can be interpreted in a number of romantic ways.
Ruby Road
Finally, to go to an even more interesting extreme, you may want to think about an engagement ring set with a ruby. A huge contrast to the white of a diamond, the red of a ruby can signify deep passion. Red is a bold color that most people will notice right away. By opting for a ring with this beautiful stone front and center, you are sending a message of deep, unyielding love to anyone who notices it.
When selecting an engagement ring, it is important to remember that diamonds are not the only stone worth your time. Explore all of your options with stones, and you are likely to find a winning fit that matches you and your significant other and the bonds you share.
