How to Get the Engagement Ring You Really Want

While the engagement ring is nowhere near the most important part about getting married, it’s a fun aspect that you’ve been dreaming about since you were little. But knowing what ring you want and getting that ring are two totally different things. You’re going to need a plan.

Tips and Strategies for Getting Your Dream Ring

 Engagement rings have been a symbol of love, marriage, and fidelity for centuries. In fact, the sense of mystique surrounding engagement rings has arguably grown over the years – thanks in large part to the individual platforms people have on social networking sites like Instagram and Pinterest. You’re constantly exposed to engagement rings – both subtly and overtly – which has probably led you to develop a very specific idea of the style of ring you want.

But how you can make sure you get the engagement and wedding ring of your dreams? While you don’t want to cross any boundaries and take control of a decision that is ultimately up to your soon-to-be fiancé, there are some small things you can do – some discreet and others more obvious – to increase your chances of getting the perfect ring. Take a look:

The Direct Approach

 Are you pretty adamant about getting the exact ring you want? Does your boyfriend want your opinion on the matter? If you answered yes to both of these questions, then you may want to take the Direct Approach of simply showing him what rings you like and which ones you don’t. This takes away the element of surprise but that’s probably a good thing.

The Informant Technique

 Less subtle than the direct approach, yet still effective, the Informant Technique involves telling someone – likely your mom, sister, or best friend – what type of ring you want. They can then casually relay the message to your boyfriend when he begins the ring shopping process. This allows you to be a little more hands-off, while still ensuring your opinion is heard.

The Forgetful Girlfriend Approach

 Now we’re getting into some creative approaches that are a little more discreet than simply telling him what you want. We’ll call this the “Forgetful Girlfriend Approach,” and it involves leaving a web page open on your computer so your boyfriend “stumbles” upon it.

For example, let’s say you really want a uniquely styled antique ring – such as one from this collection. You would simply “forget” to close out the page, which would make your boyfriend feel as if he stumbled upon your secret. It’s a subtle way of helping him make the right choice.

The Commentary Approach

 You might feel like your boyfriend doesn’t listen to you, but he picks up on more than you think. That’s why the Commentary Approach works well, especially if you’re patient enough to execute it over a long period of time.

With the Commentary Approach, you simply make verbal comments about rings you do and don’t like. Whether it’s a friend, relative, or someone on TV, you just say things like, “Oh, that’s an absolutely beautiful ring. I love that.” or “I would never pick out a ring like that for myself.” There’s no need to direct these comments specifically at him. Just say them out loud like you’re talking to yourself.

Focus on What Matters

 While it’s fun to think about getting the perfect engagement ring, don’t get so caught up in mentally shopping for a ring that you forget about the things that really matter. You’re about to spend the rest of your life with the man of your dreams. The ring is just a big, sparkly bonus.