Are you about to pop that question to a special someone in your life?
If so, finding that perfect engagement ring doesn’t have to prove a frustrating time in your life. In fact, it can be one of the more engaging times in your life, especially if you share the adventure with your significant other.
That said shopping for an engagement ring can provide a bit of anxiety for some men, but you do not have to be one of them.
By taking the time to get it right the first time around, both you and your soon-to-be wife will be all smiles.
So, is engagement ring shopping in your near future?
Should You Shop as a Couple?
In the event you’ve been tossing around the idea of shopping together for an engagement ring, do you know where to begin?
First and foremost, finding a reputable jeweler is of the utmost importance.
While you may think that all jewelers are alike, keep in mind that is typically not the case.
Some jewelers have risen to the top over the years due to not only excellent rings with which to choose from, but also stellar customer service. When you throw in excellent pricing options, these jewelers are usually going to win out over their competition.
So, how do you know which jeweler has your best interests in mind?
For starters, do some Internet research.
Yes, before there was a worldwide web, most couples had to rely on television or radio commercials, newspaper advertisements, word-of-mouth from friends and family, even going in-person to the jewelry stores. While all of those options are certainly still in play today, the Internet has added an entirely new dimension to the ring shopping process.
Another newer facet of engagement ring shopping over the last few decades is more couples going together to look at rings.
Sure, there is always a small potential of disagreements flaring up, but more times than not, couples will come to agreement on what she truly wants.
Whether shopping for that engagement ring at Front Jewelers or any other number of businesses, you both must be sure the experience is a winning one.
Ask Questions for the Best Experience
In order to get the right ring at the right price, keep the following questions in mind of each and every jeweler you both speak to:
- How long have you been in business? While it is perfectly fine to work with some newer jewelers, those stores having been around for many years tend to work best. The reasoning there is they obviously have a history, a track record if you will, of making happy customers. As such, they tend to get recommendations from various customers, some of whom you may very well know (friends, family etc.);
- Where do you get your rings from? Most jewelers will be up front about how and where they get their engagement rings from. They should also tell you about any necessary repairs. Do they do the repair work onsite or send the rings out? Lastly, do they have a website for you to look at different makes and styles from the comfort of your home or office? If so, you will be better prepared for when you actually visit the store to go over availability, pricing etc. As more jewelers grasp the need for an online presence, you and your partner are the beneficiaries;
- What pricing options are available? – Finally, price is undoubtedly an issue of interest to you. That being the case, make sure you clearly understand the payment options any particular jeweler is putting forth for you. In many cases, you can opt for a payment plan, especially if money is tight now or going into 2017. If you’re shopping together as a couple, pointing out what you can and can’t afford is a good way to avert any potential financial hassles.
Engaging in a Long Time Together
While shopping for the right engagement ring can be a little taxing for one or both individuals, it doesn’t have to lead to disagreements etc. The time spent together can be beneficial in various ways for your long-term togetherness.
Remember, the last thing you want is a major falling out over what is supposed to be one of the happiest times in both your lives.
From your first date to now, you’ve probably had a few challenging moments.
When all is said and done, don’t make the engagement ring process one of them.