What is an engagement?
An engagement marks the moment when two partners decide to get married and make this promise to each other. This often happens during a proposal, where one partner kneels down to ask the other to marry them. If the other partner agrees, the couple is officially engaged. The engagement period lasts from the proposal until the actual wedding ceremony.
How does a proposal work?
There are various ways to propose. It usually starts with the search for an engagement ring. Additionally, it is important to plan the right location and timing for the proposal. In some traditions, the partner planning to propose first asks the other partner’s parents for their permission. After receiving their approval, the proposal can take place.
How you plan your proposal is entirely up to you. In traditional relationships, the man often kneels down before his partner. Following a personal speech, he asks the woman to marry him. During the proposal, the man typically presents an engagement ring. After asking the question, he places the ring on the woman’s ring finger, marking the couple as officially engaged.
Which knee should you go down on?
A proposal can already be nerve-wracking enough, so it is helpful to think through the details beforehand, such as which knee to go down on. Fortunately, there are no strict rules, and you can decide what feels right at the moment. If tradition is important to you, it is customary to kneel on your left knee. This tradition dates back to the past, when knights knelt on their left knee as a sign of loyalty and respect.
The search for the perfect engagement ring
An important aspect of the proposal and engagement is the engagement ring. Traditionally, the partner proposing—often the man—buys an engagement ring for their partner to use when asking the question. The choice of ring depends entirely on your taste and that of your partner.
The first decision in your search for the perfect ring is the material. Will you choose a white gold ring or a yellow gold engagement ring? Also, consider the style—do you prefer a unique and bold design, or a classic and timeless ring?
Diamonds often take center stage in engagement rings. You can opt for a ring with multiple diamonds or a ring with a single diamond, also known as a solitaire ring. At Oro Jewels, we offer a selection of high-quality and timeless engagement rings in our collection. Need personal advice? Book an appointment in our showroom, and we will gladly help you find the perfect engagement ring.
How much to spend on an engagement ring?
Before starting your search for an engagement ring, it is important to determine your budget. It is a special moment, and the ring is meant to be worn forever, so you will want to choose a ring that stands the test of time.
In the 1930s, a leading diamond company introduced the guideline that buyers should spend at least one, and later even three, months’ salary on an engagement ring. Although this rule of thumb is still widely known, it is now considered somewhat outdated. These days, you decide what fits your budget. At Oro Jewels, you will find a wide range of engagement rings, with prices ranging from €449 to €3,999.
Finding the perfect location
A proposal is a special moment, so it deserves a memorable location. When choosing the perfect spot for your proposal, it is helpful to decide whether you want it to be an intimate moment or shared with family and friends.
A popular option is to propose during a holiday or weekend getaway. This could be a location that holds special meaning for you, such as the place where you had your first vacation or first date. Plan the exact location, date, and time in advance. Do not forget to arrange for someone to capture the moment, so you can cherish the memory forever. Need help finding the perfect location or organizing your proposal? A wedding planner can assist not only with your wedding but also with your proposal.
Announcing your engagement
After the question has been asked and your partner has said yes, it is time to announce your engagement. When and how you do this is entirely up to you. You can share the news right after the proposal or wait for a later time.
One way to announce your engagement is to share it in person during a dinner or other gathering with family and friends. Alternatively, you can share the news via social media. Want to go all out? Organize an engagement party, where your family and friends can come together to celebrate your engagement.
How long is an engagement valid?
There is no legal limit to how long an engagement lasts. There are no legal requirements dictating how soon after an engagement you must get married. Some couples choose to marry just a few months after getting engaged, while others wait several years. On average, couples get married within 1 to 1.5 years after the proposal. In the Netherlands, you are required to register your intent to marry a few months before the wedding date. This official notification, called ondertrouw, is filed with the municipality to declare your intention to marry.
