An Insider’s Guide to LGBTQ+ Proposals

A proposal is deeply personal.

Low-key at home, or on a fabulous beach holiday.

How you seize the moment is entirely up to you.

There’s no 'right' time - only the time that feels right for you. Every relationship moves at its own pace, and whether your proposal is carefully planned or beautifully spontaneous, what matters most is that it reflects your story, your readiness and your future together.

When Should You Propose?
The wider the ring, the more surface area it covers on your finger. This increases the grip you will feel and helps to keep your your ring securely in place. However, you may need a larger ring size.

Over breakfast on the first morning of a holiday
On the anniversary of their first meeting
On their partner’s birthday
On the viewing deck of the Empire State Building
At the top of the Burj Khalifa

We’ve seen proposals in Venice, Paris, Edinburgh, Geneva, New York City and Las Vegas - each one completely unique. But just as often, the most meaningful proposals happen in beautifully simple ways: At a picnic. Over Sunday lunch. On an ordinary walk that suddenly becomes unforgettable. Of course, the location matters far less than the intention behind it. The memory of your proposal will last forever so many couple do shape the moment to be special to them.

Who Proposes in an LGBTQ+ Relationship?
One of the questions we’re asked most often is: who proposes? In our experience, around 70% of couples have one partner who secretly plans the proposal. The remaining 30% of couples make the decision together and then come to us to choose engagement rings as a joint step forward. There’s no script. Some couples surprise each other. Some design the moment collaboratively. It's your milestone moment! The freedom to define your own tradition is part of what makes LGBTQ+ proposals so special.

Do Both Partners Wear an Engagement Ring?
Often, yes. Some couples choose for both partners to wear engagement rings. Others prefer that only one partner does. It’s entirely a matter of personal style and symbolism. Around 90% of our LGBTQ+ clients choose engagement rings with diamonds. For many, a diamond continues to represent beauty, value and longevity.

Rainbow-coloured rings as a symbolic choice for gay, lesbian and trans couples
Sapphire engagement rings for those who prefer colour with a more understated feel
Fully bespoke designs for couples who want something completely individual

Whatever your heart desires, we can help you create something that is authentically yours.

What Happens After the Proposal?
However you decide to propose, it can be the perfect moment to celebrate publicly - but many couples choose to savour the engagement between themselves before sharing it with the world.

Do you keep it private for a while?
Tell close friends and family first?
Announce it immediately on social media?

There is no right or wrong approach - only what feels comfortable for you both.

Engagement Ring Now, Wedding Ring Later?
Interestingly, around 40% of our clients choose an engagement ring that will later become their wedding ring. This approach requires thoughtful design. As the ring will be worn every day for life, it must be practical as well as beautiful. Comfort, durability and timeless styling become especially important. When designed carefully, a single ring can mark both occasions - proposal and marriage - in one elegant piece.