We talk to Manu Bhardwaj, Founder of Hot Pink, about the death of traditions when it comes to proposing.
Weddings on Female First
Why do you think that a quarter of Brits would upgrade their engagement ring?
We think there are two things at play here:
- Most rings are bought when couple are young. Although the purchase was probably financially painful at the time of purchase, for many people as time moves on and their earning potential is more fully realised. That original ring may no longer cut it when set against other jewellery that has been subsequently bought.
- For some, although they are happily married/engaged and in love, they are not in love with the original ring that their partner bought them. Unlike most gifts such as the hideous lamp that Aunty Nora bought you, and is whipped out when they come to visit, your engagement can be a daily reminder that you partner didn’t get it quite right.
Why don’t over half of Brits think it’s important to ask permission of the parents before proposing?
We’ve definitely seen a decline in our customers asking permission from their intended parents in recent years. As dating rituals and 'typical' British courtships have changed over the years, so has social acceptance of many couples being together and living together for a number of years before committing to marriage, meaning that many partners are already part of their beloved’s family before popping the big question.
Why do you think such a high percentage of people were disappointed with their proposal?
Just like most dream of their perfect wedding and perfect house from a young age, many also dream of their perfect proposal. Hollywood obviously helps fuel the high expectation of many. Hence, for some they face an almost impossible task when proposing, as such high expectations have been built up already.
Why do many think that getting down on one knee is old fashioned?
We don't know is the honest answer. We like to think everyone should do this. In fact when selling an engagement ring we always give the groom some tips on proposing. Braking with male ego and getting down on one knee is tip number one. They will remember and tell the story of the proposal for years to come.
What is the most common change that someone wants for their engagement ring?
The most common change is to reset a stone in a new style of band as the original one has broken in some way. Often the damage isn’t always accidental!
How has Hot Pink tried to rectify the issues with unsuitable rings?
Some of our customers come to us with a family heirloom that they want to reuse for sentimental purposes, a grandmothers ring for example. We are more than happy to reset stones from other jeweller into a new design, and the technology we use gives people the creative freedom to create their dream ring.
What are the most common complaints with the proposal and why do you think these rank above other elements of the event?
They got the ring wrong is the most common complaint, and it just shows that this is the most important element about the event. The ring is a token of love, and something that you’ll wear for a very long time.
Why do a lot of men dread ring shopping for their partners?
For the majority of men, apart from buying a watch, buying an engagement ring is often the first piece of jewellery that they have bought. There’s also a lot of pressure, as women often have the idea of the perfect ring in their head already, making it even more difficult. It can be very intimidating and daunting for most as they are put in a situation where they know very little but know they must get it absolutely right!
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