55% of couples are together less than a year before getting engaged

British couples are rushing into marriage proposals, according to new data which found that over half (55%) are together less than a year before getting engaged. Modern relationships can come with personal, professional and financial pressures, but according to the study* by jewellery retailer Abelini, Brits are fast-tracking love and moving through milestones at a rapid pace, with a fifth spending less than a week planning the proposal, and 15% even admitting it was a spur of the moment decision.  

The report delves into the trials and tribulations that come with marriage proposals, considering costs and the engagement ring to proposal traditions and location. When it comes to the engagement ring, one in 10 admitted that it didn’t meet their expectations, with the biggest concern (16%) being that they wished they knew their partner’s ring size. 

Abelini has partnered with etiquette expert Laura Windsor to share advice on this common dilemma.  She says: “It’s not great etiquette and may be considered bad manners to get the ring size wrong. Getting the wrong-sized ring may embarrass you or at least make your partner feel uncomfortable and it can show a lack of consideration or care if the ring doesn’t fit. I’d recommend either borrowing one they already have, or speaking to close friends or relatives and asking them to investigate.”

With couples losing no time when it comes to popping the question, it seems traditional proposal rituals have had their place too, with less than half getting down on one knee (41%) and only one in three (30%) asking parents or guardians for permission. 

So, what do modern day proposals look like? Privacy is key, with almost half (46%) choosing to propose in private. Instagram worthy proposals appear to be declining too, with 36% taking place at home, followed by 19% on holiday in the UK, and 16% on holiday outside of the UK. When asked what type of proposal they would have done if money was no object, the top five include: 

1. A famous landmark 

2. On a luxurious holiday 

3. Paying for a celebrity to be involved 

4. Something adventurous (eg. a helicopter ride) 

5. Seasonal themed  

Britain is facing a cost of living crisis, which could explain the shift to more intimate proposals, but when it comes to the heart of the deed - the engagement ring - it still takes centre stage, with Brits spending, on average, £829. In comparison, couples are spending £641 on the planning of the proposal.  

Laura shares her advice on how to plan the perfect romantic proposal, she adds: “It’s always recommended to propose in an environment where your partner feels the most comfortable and relaxed, away from the stress of the world.

“Ask yourself what it is that they love doing more than anything else, whether it is a place or an activity. For example, if your partner loves wining and dining in a particular restaurant that is always fully booked then getting a dinner reservation will make it all the more special. If your partner loves hiking, go off on a day’s hike and present the ring at a spot that has a magnificent view.

“Just be yourself, after all, your partner has fallen in love with the person you are right now. If you know each other well and you know what your partner’s interests and passions are, then it should be easy.”

If you’re looking to create a memorable proposal, or want to browse unique engagement rings, please head here: https://www.abelini.com/blog/the-proposal-playbook