Groom_bug - wedding guide for the groom, buying a diamond ring, wedding proposals

Q: Buying the ring is a big purchase, how do I know I’m getting a quality piece of jewelry?

A: Ready to buy the ring? Need a little help? We asked Emerson Robbins of E.E. Robbins, The Engagement Ring Store, to tell us the top 5 most important things to know when buying a diamond engagement ring. Here's what he had to say:

1. The first thing to do is relax. Everything about getting married should be fun, and buying an engagement ring shouldn’t be any different. With the right information you’ll be able to find the perfect ring, so there is no need to worry.

2. You’re making a lifetime purchase, so get a ring that comes with a lifetime warranty against chipping, cracking and loss.

3. Recognize that every diamond is unique; ratings do not determine beauty or quality, so see your diamond in person before you buy it. Look at your diamond with a gem scope under normal lighting conditions and ask for a certified gemologist to help you know what to look for.

4. You want to make sure that your bride will love the ring, and you may be nervous about what you’re going to do if she doesn’t. Don’t worry, just buy your ring at a store that allows returns, or consider figuring out what cut of diamond she likes and then buying the diamond only. We have beautiful boxes you can present your diamond in and then you can bring her to the store later to choose the setting.

5. Last but definitely not least, it’s all about the surprise. Your fiancée will remember your proposal for the rest of her life, so make it special and even if she knows your going to propose, make it a big surprise.

A: Only if you feel like it would be appreciated by both your bride-to-be and her family. If her parents are expecting the asking for her hand ritual, they'll be thrilled with your respect for them and for tradition. Even if they don't have those expectations, your future in-laws may be pleasantly surprised with the gesture if it would be meaningful to your fiancée. No parents? You can always ask her brothers, her best friend, her barista… you know what’s appropriate for your girl and how to start off on the right foot!

A: Think outside of the box and plan a proposal that will make a great story, because it’s one you’ll both tell for the rest of your lives. Be sure to pick something that fits the two of you and the things that are meaningful to your relationship. Whether that means popping the question at a picnic, on a mountaintop, during a quiet moment alone or with a perfectly orchestrated scavenger hunt, make it memorable and make it perfect for you. For tons of real life proposal stories from other Junebug readers, check out our Big Question section!