PROPOSAL GUIDE

We recognise that proposing is a really big moment in your life but fear not… we are on hand to help.

For over 70 years, our team have been using their knowledge and experience to help our customers find ‘the one’. We love nothing more than playing our part in this special moment in your life.

When planning your proposal, there is so much to think about… what ring will they like, who should you tell, do you need to ask permission, where should it take place… the list is endless!

To help you along the way, we have put together this handy proposal guide. Whether you are looking for advice on the ring, ideas on how to propose or what happens after you’ve ‘got down on one knee’… this guide has all the information to help you make this a moment to remember and celebrate!

If you would like any further advice from our passionate team please do pop into store… we won’t bite… we promise.

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CONTENTSPAGE4. FIRST THINGS FIRST… DON’T BELIEVE THE RUMOURS

5. TIPS ON ASKING PERMISSION

6. CHOOSING THE RING… THE FACTS

7. CHOOSING THE RING… THE STYLE

8. CHOOSING THE RING… THE METAL

9. CHOOSING THE RING… THE DIAMOND SHAPE

10. CHOOSING THE RING… THE KEY DRAKES COLLECTIONS

11. SPOILT FOR CHOICE? WE MIGHT HAVE JUST THE ANSWER

12. CHOOSING THE RING… HOW ABOUT SOMETHING BESPOKE?

13. CHOOSING THE RING… GETTING THE SIZE RIGHT

14. KEEPING IT A SECRET

15. PLANNING THE PROPOSAL

16. PROPOSAL IDEAS

18. THE EVENT

19. ANNOUNCING THE ENGAGEMENT

20. WHAT NEXT?

21. WHY CHOOSE DRAKES?

FIRST THINGS FIRST… DON’T BELIEVE THE RUMOURS!

Let’s be honest, we all know the myths. You will probably have been told by friends, family or the internet that you should be spending 1, 2 or 3 months salary on the engagement ring.

This is simply not true!

When you purchase the engagement ring, you must spend whatever you feel most comfortable with.

Our engagement rings cater for a wide range of budgets and tastes starting from £225. We also have Interest Free Credit options to help spread the cost.

What is more important than the value of the ring is the thought behind it and what it means to you both.

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TIPS ON ASKING PERMISSION

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It’s an old tradition that tells us we need their parents permission for a hand in marriage. Today it is not as common, however, we personally feel it is still a nice touch. For the homebody, knowing their parents approve of taking this relationship to the next level can be very meaningful indeed.

We are no experts, but, we understand this can be a nervous experience. Here are just a few of our top tips for asking permission. Remember… they just want what is best.

Make sure you have met your future parents in law before diving in with the big question. Getting to know them will make this a much more pleasant experience.

Think about your outfit. You want your clothing to give a good impression and reflect your personality.

We understand that it’s not always practical to ask their parents in person however, where you can we would advise doing so. Make sure that you choose an environment you feel completely comfortable in.

Ask for their blessing and support with the marriage calmly. If they should happen to say no, ask for their reasons in a calm manor. Stay relaxed.

Don’t hold back your feelings! Tell them just how much their child means to you and make your intentions very clear.Reassure them you will take good care of them.

Although it is tradition to ask the father, you may want to consider your partners mother too.

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CHOOSING THE RING…THE FACTS

THE 5CsThere are 5 things to remember when choosing a diamond:

COLOURThis refers to the body colour of a diamond. Diamonds are colour graded from D (colourless) to Z (yellow).

CUTWhen a diamond is cut, facets are created. Facets give the diamond its unique brilliance and sparkle. Round brilliant cut diamonds usually have 57 facets.

CARATThe carat tells you the overall weight of the diamond. Generally speaking the larger the diamond, the higher the carat weight will be.

CLARITYThe majority of diamonds have internal characteristics which are known as inclusions. These are not faults, but are commonly known as “natures hallmark”.

CONFIDENCEChoosing a diamond can be quite a daunting experience but rest assured our team will be there to help you every step of the way to ensure you make the perfect choice.

It doesn’t have to be a diamond! You can choose a beautifully coloured gemstone engagement ring.

1477was the year the tradition of an engagement ring was first introduced. Archduke Maximillian of Austria gave Mary of Burgundy a gold ring set with a diamond as a token of his love.

0.37ctis the average diamond carat weight of an engagement ring.

The most common metal used for engagement rings is either

WHITE GOLD or PLATINUM.

ROUND BRILLIANT CUTis the most popular diamond shape.

900 MILLION YEARSis the age of the youngest diamond.

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CHOOSING THE RING…THE STYLE

RUB OVER SETTINGPerfect for those with busy lives and young children. The rub over does not have any claws to catch.

TRILOGYThe three diamonds in this style represent the past, the present and the future. Or if you prefer, they also stand for I Love You!

TENSION SETTINGThis setting allows you to see the point at the back of the diamond unlike any other setting.

SIX CLAWThis traditional setting can give the illusion of a flower whilst giving maximum security for the diamond.

DIAMOND SET SHOULDERSRings with diamond set shoulders enhance the centre stone. These rings also sit nicely with plain wedding bands.

CLUSTERThe design of a cluster can really make a statement – think WOW factor!

SOLITAIREThis timeless setting sits well with the majority of wedding rings.

FIVE STONEIt doesn’t have to been a solitaire diamond… the more the merrier!

GEMSTONESLooking for something out of the ordinary? Thinking Kate Middleton? Gemstones can make for a beautiful engagement ring too!

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CHOOSING THE RING…THE METAL

ROSE GOLDThis metal colour is said to be the ‘romantic gold’ due to its vibrant rose colour. Rose gold is becoming increasingly popular and is available in both 9ct and 18ct gold.

PLATINUMThis is the rarest of all metals but also the most hard wearing! Rumour has it that all the platinum in the world would only equate to an average sized football pitch!

PALLADIUMPalladium is part of the platinum family. There are two types of palladium – 500 and 950. Palladium 500 contains 50% palladium and 50% silver. Palladium 950 contains more palladium at 95% giving it a vibrant white colour. Palladium 950 is harder wearing than 500 and can both be worn alongside platinum rings.

WHITE GOLDWhite gold in its raw state is not truly white in colour. A rhodium coating creates the bright white finish whilst also adding hardness and durability.

YELLOW GOLDThere are many types of yellow gold ranging from 9ct to 22ct. 9ct is hardwearing while 18ct is richer in colour. You will find that many yellow gold rings have a white gold setting around the diamond, this is because the white gold gives the diamond a brighter and whiter sparkle.

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CHOOSING THE RING…THE DIAMOND SHAPE

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When choosing an engagement ring, you will need to consider your preferred shape of the diamond. All have their benefits and personally, we love them all! Today, the most popular diamond shape is still the round brilliant cut so if you are looking to play it safe… this would be an ideal choice! However, fancy cut diamonds such as princess, emerald, cushion and pear are also very popular so it is worth considering all of your options before making your final decision.

Here are the most popular diamond shapes available today…

ROUND BRILLIANTThis classic shape has 57 facets. These release the most fire and sparkle of all diamond shapes.

PRINCESSThese square shaped diamonds have pointed corners with an array of intricate facets. Think modern and distinctive.

CUSHIONThis square or rectangular diamond shape has rounded corners resembling a pillow. The large facets create maximum brilliance.

PEARThis shape is a combination of both round and marquise cuts. It can also be known as the ‘teardrop’ and offers an eye-catching look!

EMERALDThe emerald cut has stepped facets oozing simplicity and sophistication.

HEARTConsidered by many as the most romantic diamond shape of all… the iconic symbol of love!

RADIANTThis diamond shape combines the simplicity of the emerald cut with the brilliance of the round brilliant cut.

BAGUETTESimilar to the emerald cut, the baguette cut has stepped facets but with pointed corners. This was one of the earliest diamond cuts.

OVALPerfect for someone looking for something classic with an edge. Think elegance.

TRILLIONThis triangular cut consists of three equal sides. This diamond makes for a striking option.

MARQUISEThis dramatic cut has two tapered points at each end! They say the shape of the diamond mirrors the hull of a small boat.

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CHOOSING THE RING…THE KEY DRAKES COLLECTIONS

Remember, this is not an exhaustive list of all the engagement rings we have in Drakes, these are just key collections… a place for you to start. Pop in store today where one of our team can help you find the most perfect ring to propose with.

To help make browsing at Drakes easier, we have conveniently grouped some of our products into meaningful diamond collections. Here are some of the collections we recommended in order for you to find your perfect engagement ring!

DESIRE BY DRAKESCertified as ‘D’ the highest colour grade possible, you can expect unrivalled beautiful from these carefully selected and virtually colourless stones. A diamond collection not to be missed! What makes our Desire by Drakes collection even more special is that each of the diamonds in this beautiful collection are hand-picked and graded by Drakes Director and qualified diamond grader Andrew Hirshman. SOLITAIRESQuite simply everything in this collection is a diamond solitaire!Elegant, beautiful and the ultimate symbol of true love!

HALOEach beautiful piece in this collection features diamonds elegantly surrounding a larger diamond in the centre. A beautiful collection with so much sparkle, especially when the halo is teamed with diamond set shoulders!

MIRAGEThis radiant collection offers unstoppable sparkle. All the gorgeous pieces in this collection offer a setting that gives the illusion of a larger diamond.

DRAKES DIAMOND DESIGNSDesigned by our very own team members; Carrie and Kelsey. Each design has its own unique story exclusive to Drakes. Find out more at drakesjewellers.co.uk/drakes-diamond-designs.

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So you are planning to propose but feel completely overwhelmed with the choice. What will they like? What won’t they like? What have they always wanted? There are so many options it can be difficult not to worry about getting it right.

This is why we are proud to offer you DIAMONDS WITH A PROMISE!

This has been designed specifically with you in mind, so you can relax and enjoy choosing your diamond and feel confident about making the right choice.

HOW DOES IT WORK?You have the opportunity to choose and propose with a breath-taking loose diamond, you can then return to Drakes at a later date together to choose a perfect setting for your diamond.

This means you can still propose in a traditional way and share this romantic experience together. Think about their sheer delight at seeing a beautifully sparkling diamond!

SPOILT FOR CHOICE?WE MIGHT HAVE JUST THE ANSWER!

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CHOOSING THE RING…HOW ABOUT SOMETHING BESPOKE?

Looking for a ring that is unique… how about something completely bespoke?

Work with our Drakes team to bring your engagement ring ideas to life and create something truly unique to you.

We can work with you to create visuals of what you have in mind before later using a 3D printer to provide you with a model. Once you are completely happy, we will then bring the ring to life in time for your special moment.

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Not sure of their ring size? Don’t panic!

Once you have proposed, pop into Drakes and we can sort the sizing out for you to ensure the perfect fit.

CHOOSING THE RING…GETTING THE SIZE RIGHT

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KEEPING IT A SECRETKeeping your plans a secret can be a challenge!

Firstly, you may be thinking “who should I tell?” RULE No.1. It is completely up to you who you tell/don’t tell. Some people choose to keep it a secret from everyone, some confide in a trusted friend for engagement ring advice and proposal planning.

Secondly, you have the ring… how do you hide it?! We would recommend giving it to a ‘very’ trusted relative or friend until you are ready to propose. Or… we are more than happy to keep your Drakes ring in store for safe keeping until you are ready. It’s amazing how easily these things can get uncovered when your partner randomly

decides to go in that cupboard they’ve always avoided! Play it safe!

Watch what you say around them. You wouldn’t want to risk revealing your plans by dropping little hints! If they think you are dropping hints, they are more likely to probe you for answers!

Lastly… however you are planning to propose to the love of your life, try not to do it in such a way that makes it obvious. Try not to alter their normal routine. Don’t encourage them to take time off, or book their favourite restaurant! They’ll be expecting it. If you want to propose on the beach, for example, start encouraging beach walks a few months before the proposal!

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PLANNING THE PROPOSAL

So… you have their parents permission, you have the ring safely left with a relative/friend or with Drakes, what next?

It’s time to put your plans together to pull off this amazing event! The question is where to start?

Think about the person you are planning to ask to marry you and ask yourself

What do they like?Where is their favourite place?Will they want an audience?

When’s the best time?Who do you want to help you plan it?

Answering these questions will give you some ideas on how to ‘pop the question’.

Once you have decided on how you are going to propose, don’t forget to book all the necessary elements to ensure a smooth and enjoyable proposal.

Turn over for some ideas on how you can

POP THE QUESTION.

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Take them to a place that has personal significance to the two of you – the location of your first date, their favourite place? When you’re there, ask a passer-by to take a picture of you both. When they are just about to take the picture, get down on one knee.

They say Paris is the ‘City of Love’, making it the perfect place to pop the question. In 2008 the ‘Pont Des Arts’ bridge became home to love locks. What a romantic location to propose and place your own padlock to commemorate your special occasion.

THERE ARE SO MANY WAYS YOU CAN PROPOSE. HERE ARE A FEW OF OUR FAVOURITES TO HELP GET YOU STARTED…

Send your loved one on a treasure hunt around the city. This can take them through all your favourite/memorable spots. At the final spot, you will be there waiting on one knee.

Having already been to the beach before the main event, walk along the sand with your partner until you reach the words “WILL YOU MARRY ME!”

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WE HOPE THESE WILL HELP YOU TO PLAN YOUR PERFECT PROPOSAL.

Fans of the aquarium? Arrange for them to hold a sign during feeding time that says “WILL YOU MARRY ME”. Then position yourself at the right tank in time for the event to unfold before your own eyes.

Make it obvious you are planning to propose by asking for your partner’s ring size. When they catch on and try to tell you that you have ruined the surprise, say “ok, you caught me, but why don’t you try this ring on for size!” presenting them with a beautiful engagement ring.

Cook a meal for you both at home. Propose over dessert! Not a good cook? Why not hire your own private chef.

How about a proposal abroad during a holiday? After getting the ring safely to your holiday destination, relax and take time to choose your moment. During sunset, walking on the beach, swimming with dolphins? Whichever moment you choose, it will be your moment to treasure forever.

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THE EVENT

The day has arrived!

All the plans are in place, the ring is safely with you hidden away and the nerves have kicked in.

We just want to tell you, everything will be ok!

If all goes to plan, today will be the start of your ‘forever.’

Do enjoy the day as we are sure it will be one to remember and treasure for many years to come.

We cannot wait to hear all about it!

The only thing that remains for us to say at this stage is

GOOD LUCK TO YOU BOTH!

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ANNOUNCING YOUR ENGAGEMENT Congratulations you are now engaged! Now to spread the good news! Here are our top tips on how to announce your engagement.

We believe you should tell your parents first. We would recommend telling them face-to-face or over video call so that way you can see their reaction to the news!

After your parents, inform other family members quickly followed by your close friends. Once all of your family and close friends are aware of the good news, you’ll possibly want to announce this on social media… but how?

If you have pictures or videos of the actual proposal itself, you are sorted - Nothing can quite beat seeing this special moment.

A play on words can attract quite a lot of attention on social media. For example, “Such an amazing evening watching the sunset this evening…” with a picture of you and your fiancé(e) wearing the engagement ring, will get everyone interacting.

Finally, there is the famous ring pic! We find the best ring pictures are taken during the moment with the setting acting as the backdrop. If you fancy being a little more creative, perhaps just an “I said yes” picture.

So you’ve told the whole wide world that you’re engaged and now it’s time to celebrate! How about holding an engagement party? Whether it’s simply a BBQ or a glitzy party, there is no better way to celebrate than with the people you love and cherish the most.

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WHAT NEXT?Whether you decide to start planning straight away or wait a few years, the next step is to plan your wedding!

Remember it is YOUR wedding and your day so do enjoy the planning of it too.

Our Drakes BRIDAL brochure will help you with your wedding planning!

We wish you lots of luck for your happy future together.

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SHARE YOUR NEWS Upload your engagement picture to

our Drakes Facebook and Instagram

accounts. #drakeslovestory

Receive an exclusive Engagement Gift when you purchase your ring from us. You’ll be treated to exclusive offers from some of Plymouth’s leading wedding suppliers worth over £1000.

JOIN OUR FAMILYSign up to our email database and be the first to hear about our new collections, exciting events and exclusive promotions!

*T&Cs apply. Please visit drakesjewellers.co.uk for full details.

IN STORE JEWELLERY INSURANCEWith no excess to pay and our team on hand to complete the necessary paperwork, you can protect your jewellery with ease.

WHITE GOLD?We will rhodium finish your white gold engagement ring. The first 3 re-rhodiums are free!

Your ring will be BEAUTIFULLY presented in one of our Drakes ring cases.

0% FINANCE AVAILABLE

TRUSTED SINCE 1950For over 70 years, we have been helping couples to find their perfect engagement ring. Our knowledgeable and passionate team are on hand to help you every step of the way.

OUR WAY OF SAYING THANK YOUJoin our complimentary DRAKES REWARDS scheme and each time you make a purchase you will earn 1 reward for every £1 you spend. Use your rewards towards your next purchase with us, or carry on collecting to save for something extra special!* The perfect opportunity to use these against your wedding rings!

DRAKES JEWELLERY HOSPITALWe can resize your engagement ring to ensure it is the perfect fit.*

Bring your engagement ring in to our store and we will gladly clean them to restore their sparkle!

Why choose Drakes…23.

Drake Circus Shopping Centre, 1 Charles Street, Plymouth PL1 1EATel: 01752 227775 drakesjewellers.co.uk

“From the day of your engagement till the end of your days, may your life be full of true love”

ANON