You've probably clicked through a myriad of listicles, videos, and TikToks advising you how to 'get him to put a ring on it.'

But hey, it's the 21st century; we're smashing stereotypes and breaking glass ceilings! 

We believe ALL genders, sexualities, and people worldwide should celebrate love. 

We also believe that ANYONE can propose!

Welcome to Ben Garelick's love-smitten, rule-bending playbook for everyone who's felt that deep yearning to give or get that life-altering "Yes!".

Let’s crack the proposal code!

Understand Your Partner's Marriage Matrix

Listen, love-struck friends, romance isn't a game of '20 Questions.' 

That said, Reader’s Digest believes these 36 questions can lead to love!

But beyond online quizzes, true love runs much deeper.

You'll have to go beyond the surface to discover if both of you are in sync about tying the knot. 

• Initiate candid, open discussions. 
• What are their feelings towards marriage? 
• Their fears? 

Dive deep so you're not merely skimming the surface of one another's souls.

Some people don’t want to get married for many reasons.

Be empathetic, listen to your partner, understand where compromise can be made, and be truthful regarding your wants and expectations for love.

Hints, Hints, and More Hints

Once you’ve confirmed you’re both on the same page of lurv, you can feel comfortable knowing your partner may one day propose or would welcome you popping the all-encompassing question!

If you want to be on the receiving end of a proposal, hint subtly toward your desires.

Share your finds if you've got an eye for aesthetics and can't help but swoon over minimalist wedding suits or boho-chic bridalwear! 

A casual comment like, "Wouldn't this just make our wedding photos so Insta-worthy one day?" is a way to drop a gentle hint.

But, of course, if you're the sort who's allergic to subtlety, go full throttle—leave tabs open on your shared laptop with ring designs that make your heart do a happy dance. 

Make the browser your billboard and your message unmissable.

As we said, be sure they’re game for marriage, and you’re at a stage in your relationship where it may be on the cards.

Hinting at marriage too soon or when your partner isn’t ready might pressure them to propose.

Likewise, if you feel pressured to commit - say, your partner is giving you an ultimatum, it might not be the right fit. 

The key to a great proposal is two people who WANT to be married!

Timing is Not Just a TikTok Trend; It’s Real-Life Too

You can't plant a seed in winter and expect a bloom in spring. 

Context is king, or in this case, queen—your emotional state, career aspirations, and even life stages need to harmonize.

No need to rush; your love isn't going anywhere. 

Well, except towards forever, but you get what we mean.

Don’t feel obliged to follow other couple’s timelines or set some socially accepted expectation, i.e., married by a certain age, kids by another.

Follow your own path and know that true love will endure even the most windy paths!

Focus On Romance

Before you build a home together, build a handful of memories. 

Pencil in regular date nights, from cooking together to binge-watching your favorite shows.

If your budget allows, whisk each other away on a romantic escapade. 

Consider this phase as the movie trailer for the blockbuster that will be your life together; make it captivating!

Have Couple Role Models? Spend Time with Them

Let's be honest; Netflix rom-coms are hardly the blueprint for a realistic, joy-filled marriage. 

That's why spending time with married or committed couples who exemplify the vision of love you want to emulate is crucial. 

They've cracked the code, and so can you.

Show Your Love, Don’t Just Tell

Ah, the oldest writing advice, so applicable to romance. 

You know what they say: Talk is cheap, but a well-placed kiss is priceless. Be irreplaceable in their life. 

Showcase a world of love and companionship so dazzling they'd be foolish not to secure it with a ring.

Propose Yourself, Why Don't You?

Tired of playing by the book? 

Write your own chapter. If you feel like the time is ripe and the stars are aligned, seize the moment. 

Why shouldn't you be the one to get down on one knee? 

Say “be done with you” to stigmas or gender roles.

Make your own rules; love honors audacity.

Again, follow the tips throughout this guide and ensure you’re both on the same page.

If you are, plan the most spellbinding proposal and make them feel like the luckiest person on earth.

And remember, as much as we love marriage and proposals, it’s not the be-all and end-all.

A happy relationship with yourself and someone you love is. In an ever-evolving world, the rule book is out of the picture.

Be a good person, do kind things, and share the love. 

That’s all that really matters in the end!

Absolutely-Never-Ever-Do List

Mind Games: 

This isn't a spy thriller; it's your life.

Don’t opt for playing games like spending less time with them to make them miss you or showing your partner you have other options. 

Manipulation is the bane of any healthy relationship; frankly, anyone who uses these tactics probably isn’t ready for marriage commitment anyway!

Nagging Syndrome: 

Love is a garden; tend to it, but don’t smother it. Consistently bringing up marriage can overwhelm your partner.

Don’t you want your partner towant to propose to you? When the time and relationship are right, they will.

If you’ve been open about your expectations in life, you should already know if marriage is to be expected one day. 

Let timing take the lead and relax!

Ultimatums: 

You're looking for a lifetime partner, not a hostage. Any form of emotional blackmail is a no-go.

If your proposal begins with an ultimatum, it won’t be a happy ever after!

Your Grand Finale: Picking The Ring

Look, at Ben Garelick; we've been your co-conspirators through your first date, first kiss, and many more firsts. 

It's only natural we're here, jazzed and ready, to guide you through this awe-inducing, monumental first of committing for a lifetime. 

We're not just about opulent rings—though let's face it, we have those in spades from jewelry artisans like Simon G., Kirk Kara and our very own designs.

We're also about first-rate advice and eternal love stories!

So, whether you're eager to talk to one of our diamond-savvy experts or stroll through our magical showroom—a veritable Aladdin's cave of sparkle and sentiment—we're here for you. 

We're just a message away, eager to transform your dream into a heartwarming reality. 

Because your love story isn't just any tale; it's an epic deserving of a legendary "I Do." 

Are you ready to make that leap? 

We thought so. 

Let's roll credits on your single life and start scripting this phenomenal new chapter, shall we?

Peter Manka Jr. - Owner at Ben Garelick

Peter Manka Jr. is a passionate member of the family business who joined Ben Garelick in the early 2000s after working in product licensing for Sesame Workshop & The Jim Henson Company for many years. He obtained a degree in diamonds and jewelry from the prestigious Gemological Institute of America (GIA) in order to sharpen his jewelry skills. He takes great pride in providing exceptional customer service and helping clients find the perfect piece of jewelry.