TL;DR: engagement season usually means the weeks from December to Valentine's Day, when many couples propose over the festive season, New Year and Valentine's Day. If you plan to propose in that window and want a bespoke ring, start early, because making time, delivery and your own busy calendar all need room.
Why this season is popular
Families gather at Christmas, the New Year feels like a fresh start, and Valentine's Day is linked with romance. Many people take time off work, which makes it easier to plan a special moment and to include relatives. We do not quote figures on how many couples propose in each month, but the pattern is familiar to anyone who works with rings.
Planning around the rush
Restaurants, travel and photographers are all busier in December and February, so book anything you need early. For the ring itself, work backwards. Nothing is made until you have approved the design in writing, and standard making time is 5 to 6 weeks, varying with your location and how busy we are. Add time for design discussions by video consultation and message, and for insured, tracked FedEx delivery. If you are ordering for a December proposal, starting in late summer or early autumn gives you comfortable breathing space.
Proposing outside the season
A proposal at a quieter time of year can feel more personal, with easier bookings and calmer venues. Birthdays, anniversaries and holidays all work well. Our guides to winter proposals in Canada and engagement ring etiquette in the US have ideas and background for different places.
Southern hemisphere
In Australia and New Zealand, the same season falls in summer, with beaches, long evenings and often outdoor celebrations. If you are in the southern hemisphere, remember that your busiest delivery period overlaps with the northern hemisphere's Christmas rush, so allow a little extra time.
Keeping it a surprise
With so many proposals in the same weeks, partners may half expect a ring at Christmas. A surprise can still work beautifully by choosing an unexpected moment or place, or by proposing a little before or after the busiest days. Our guide to ordering a surprise ring secretly covers how to keep the plan quiet, including how to handle delivery.
Sizing in winter
Fingers can shrink in the cold, so a ring that fits on a winter walk may feel snug in summer. Measure at room temperature, at the end of a normal day, and measure more than once. Our guide to sizing a finger for a bespoke ring from abroad explains how, and winter gloves and ring fit covers cold weather wear.
Ordering from abroad
You do not need to visit us. We work by video consultation and message and share sketches and CAD renders before anything is made. You pay any import duty and tax, which differ by country, and we explain what to expect before you order. Pieces start from £600.
Frequently asked questions
What is engagement season?
The weeks from December to Valentine's Day, when many couples propose.
When should I order a ring for a Christmas proposal?
Standard making time is 5 to 6 weeks, varying with location and how busy we are, so starting in late summer or early autumn leaves room for design and delivery.
Is it better to propose outside engagement season?
It can be quieter and easier to plan, though the best time is the one that suits you both.
Can a ring be ready in time if I order late?
Please ask us. We will tell you honestly in writing what is realistic for your location before you order.