Proposals are one of the most important moments during a relationship – and even, in your life. But there isn’t one type of proposal that suits everyone.
For some people, a low-key occasion is better: the question could be popped at home, or during a picnic – with one lovingly selected ring. Alternatively, some people prefer it to be extravagant. Imagine a selection of diamond rings to choose from on a special trip abroad. Below, we take a look at what Brits look for in a perfect proposal.
What Brits expect from a proposal
There are different tastes across the age groups in the UK. It appears Millennials have the most expensive taste, as their perfect proposal is worth £4,102, almost double the UK average. But there is wider agreement on different aspects. Most people would prefer it to be private for instance – 74 per cent of Brits would be put off if their partner proposed to them in public, whether it be in front of family and friends or complete strangers.
The destination
Aside from whether it’s in public or in private, there are different ideas surrounding the destination as well. The key is that it’s special – and that means different things to different people. For some, it might be at a random destination when the moment feels right. But for others, a special, romantic trip to Venice or a tropical island can be the perfect setting.
The ring
The tradition of wedding rings dates back to ancient times. At the time it was a practical sign that the bride had received the dowry, but now, they’ve taken on romantic symbolism. The ring’s a key part of British expectations too, with 17 per cent of Brits saying they’d be put off if their partner proposed without a ring. Brits think the perfect proposal (including an engagement ring) should cost £2,348.
Cities with the highest expectations
Expectations for proposals do differ between cities in the UK, however. Belfast and London have the most expensive dreams for a proposal, sitting at £3,157 and £ 3,031 respectively. At the other end of the scale, Liverpool and Bristol have contrasting expectations. The average cost of the perfect proposal in these two harbour cities are £1,941 and £1,942. Sitting between these two extremes are cities such as Glasgow, Leeds and Nottingham.
Overall, everyone is looking for a special moment with their proposal. Although expectations differ from city to city in the UK. And even if some people want a public proposal abroad, compared to a private occasion at home. Underlining this all, is that everyone wants a special moment that’s right for them.
