How Couples Are Designing Engagement Rings Together in 2026

Proposals are changing, and they’re no longer the surprise that they once were. There are no “rules” to proposal planning or buying an engagement ring, and many modern couples are now choosing to design an engagement ring together. This choice is no less romantic and makes an engagement ring more intentional, allowing you both to incorporate a little of your own personalities into the ring.

At Valley Rose, our sustainable engagement rings are customizable with your choice of lab-grown diamond or responsibly sourced sapphire before being made-to-order. You can also book a virtual consultation to design a custom engagement ring, getting you both involved in the process.

Why Couples Are Designing Engagement Rings Together

Couples are working together to design an engagement ring because they want something unique. Most modern couples have moved away from mass-produced engagement rings as they feel less intentional and due to concerns over sustainability. 

A custom design is the best way to ensure your engagement ring aligns with your values. By working together, you can both contribute to the design of your engagement ring, making it even more intentional and meaningful. You won’t have to worry about sizing or choosing the wrong gemstone for your engagement ring.

Step-by-Step: How Couples Design a Ring Together

Designing an engagement ring together will usually start by booking a virtual consultation. The design process will look different for every couple, but we’re sharing a step-by-step breakdown of the basic process.

• Step 1: Define your style before you start shopping for or planning your engagement ring. A vision board is a great place to start!
• Step 2: Choose your ideal center stone, including whether you prefer a lab-grown diamond or a responsibly sourced sapphire.
• Step 3: Book a virtual consultation and discuss potential engagement ring settings with your chosen designer.
• Step 4: During your consultation, you’ll be shown a range of different gold tones to choose from.
• Step 5: Think about the smaller details, including your setting height, band width, and any hidden details like engravings.

Does Designing An Engagement Ring Together Ruin the Surprise?

Designing an engagement ring together doesn’t have to ruin the surprise. Instead, it makes the moment even more special. You can still keep the proposal a surprise, giving you the best of both worlds. 

Read more: Can an Engagement Ring Be Both Ethical and Luxurious?

FAQs about Bespoke Engagement Rings

Do couples design engagement rings together?

More couples are choosing to design a custom engagement ring together, while others are opting to shop for pre-designed rings to find the perfect style that reflects their love story.

Is it okay to choose your own engagement ring?

Your engagement ring is something you’re going to wear for eternity. It’s perfectly okay to choose your own engagement ring or work with your partner to design a custom engagement ring.

How long does it take to design a custom ring?

Most custom engagement rings will take at least 3 months to design, manufacture, and ship, depending on the complexity of your design.

What is the best way to design an engagement ring?

The best way to design a bespoke engagement ring is to work with a specialist designer who can bring your ideas to life with a virtual ring design or 3D model, making it easy for you to visualize your engagement ring before it goes into production.

Create a Bespoke Engagement Ring Together at Valley Rose

Designing your engagement ring together will make it more intentional and give a special memory to add to your special moment. Creating a custom engagement ring together will become part of your story, adding extra meaning to your modern heirloom. Book a virtual custom engagement ring consultation or shop our ethical engagement rings for more design inspiration.