Planning a Proposal: The Complete Guide to the Perfect Moment

A successful proposal requires six to eight weeks of preparation, from ring selection and sizing to choosing the location and the moment itself. Vondel Diamonds guides you every step of the way, in the boutique in Amsterdam or remotely.

  • Allow for at least six to eight weeks lead time (longer for a completely custom design)
  • Lab-grown diamonds in D to F colour and VVS to VS clarity offer a larger stone without compromising on quality
  • Ring size can be adjusted free of charge afterwards
  • The boutique at Hobbemastraat 5 in Amsterdam is open seven days a week, even without an appointment

Planning a proposal doesn't start with getting down on one knee, but weeks or months earlier. The right ring, the right moment, and a location that suits you both: that requires preparation. In this guide, you'll go through the entire process step by step, from selecting the ring to the moment itself and everything that comes after.

Step 1: Start with a timeline

Allow for at least six to eight weeks lead time. During this period, you choose a ring, have it custom-made if necessary, and prepare the moment. Start earlier if you want a fully custom design via the Own Design service (Vondel Diamonds' free customisation service where you receive a 3D design and a no-obligation quote). Set a target date for yourself and work towards it.

Also consider practical matters: do you have time off on the desired day? Is the location available? Do you need to involve someone for photos or a surprise? The more you arrange beforehand, the calmer the proposal itself will be.

Step 2: Choose the engagement ring

The ring is the tangible symbol of your proposal. Research styles that suit your partner. Pay attention to what kind of jewellery they already wear: gold or silver-coloured, delicate or striking, classic or modern.

At Vondel Diamonds, you work with lab-grown diamonds (real diamonds, grown in a laboratory using the CVD method) in D to F colour and VVS to VS clarity. All diamonds above 1.00 carat come with an IGI certificate. This means a larger stone within the same budget, without compromising on quality. Do you want to know more about choosing the right ring? Read the extensive ring selection guide on our website.

Step 3: Find out the ring size

This is often the most exciting part and one of the most frequently heard proposal tips: borrow a ring your partner already wears on the correct finger and bring it in to have the size determined. Another option: enlist a good friend or family member who can subtly ask. Don't choose the favourite ring that is worn daily, as it will be missed.

Did you get it wrong? No stress. At Vondel Diamonds, you can adjust the ring size free of charge after purchase. For more details on ring sizes, please refer to our ring size page.

Step 4: Determine the right moment and location

There is no universal "perfect moment." Choose a moment when you are both relaxed and feel no time pressure. This could be during a holiday, on a birthday, or even on a weekday evening at home.

The same applies to the location: it doesn't have to be spectacular, it just has to suit you. A place with a shared memory often works better than a random photo location. Think of the place of your first date, a favourite restaurant, or a walking route you often take together.

Plan Your Proposal 2026 · Complete Guide · Vondel Diamonds