By Marinieves Tejeda. Cover image by Lorenzo Baldi.
It all started with a glass slipper. There was no jewel and no kneeling, just a shoe that fit perfectly, sealing a shared destiny. Although this iconic scene from Cinderella does not include a ring, it has become a defining moment of our childhood, one that many aspire to recreate: the beginning of a happily ever after.
The History of Engagement Rings: Where Did This Tradition Begin?
The tradition of giving an engagement ring goes back to the Roman Empire but became widely popular in 1477 when Maximilian of Austria presented the first documented engagement ring to Mary of Burgundy. While giving a ring didn’t always signify romance, it was historically more about possession than love. As Beyoncé famously said, “If you like it, put a ring on it,” which is catchy but doesn’t really capture the essence of love. Fast forward to today, couples are rewriting the rules of commitment and turning tradition on its head. Who says you need a ring? Why not choose a gesture that’s unique to you? Here are some bold and creative ways in which people are redefining proposals that go beyond the bling, bling.
The Shoe Proposal: Why Some Are Swapping Diamonds for Designer Heels
We all remember the scene in Sex and the City when the repentant Mr. Big kneels in the walk-in closet of Carrie’s apartment, and slips her blue Manolo Blahnik shoe onto her foot as a sign of his redemption. Did you know that the Florentine shoemaker Salvatore Ferragamo also proposed to his wife, Wanda Miletti, with a pair of lace-up shoes he specially designed for her? Perhaps inspired by Cinderella, he certainly gave the phrase “putting a shoe on it” a whole new meaning.
Say It With Words and you can avoid the engagement ring
Tradition can be rewritten in many ways, one of which is writing a book! Journalist and author Dean Robbins did just that with his book Dan and Dean: The Story of Us. It was all about their love story, complete with illustrations and personal stories, culminating in the big question: “Will you marry me?”. How romantic is that?
Why Choose Diamonds When You Can Propose with Art?
Why not turn your proposal into a masterpiece? If you and your partner share a love for art or collecting, presenting a piece of artwork can be a unique and deeply personal way to pop the question. Whether it’s a painting, a sculpture, or a custom-made creation, this one-of-a-kind gesture can transform your love story into something truly unforgettable. After all, art—just like love—is timeless, ever-evolving, and meant to be cherished forever.
The Ultimate Commitment: Proposing with a House Key
Finally, for those looking to make a grand gesture, just like Mr. Big, gifting the key to a house is a unique option. This goes beyond traditional meanings and symbolises a true partnership—literally building a home together! As Prince Henry told Cinderella, “If it fits, it’s yours.” In today’s world, proposals do not need to follow old traditions. What matters most is choosing a symbol that holds significance for both partners, something that reflects your identity as a couple. Ultimately, true commitment isn’t defined by the object itself, but rather by the love and intention behind it.
