Wedding Ideas

This post is part of the My Trio Rings Precious Places series, which introduces you to the best places to propose around the country.

When you think "Cleveland, Ohio," what probably comes to mind first is American manufacturing, or perhaps the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. But there's also a romantic side to Cleveland, full of restaurants and natural spaces -- including a few prime spots to propose marriage. Here are a few.

1. Against a natural landscape

There's nothing like being surrounded by flowers and greenery to put you in a romantic mood. The Cleveland Greenhouse, which was built at the turn of the 20th century, is the perfect setting for a relaxing day with your fiancee-to-be. Explore 270 acres of outdoor gardens, spending time in the lovely Japanese garden and admiring the vibrant orchids in the tropical garden. If you're ready to propose around the holidays, consider asking for her hand in the indoor gardens bursting with colorful poinsettias. 

Pack a picnic and head to the beach at Edgewater Park before sunset. Take a stroll on the sand, then find a spot to lay down a blanket and sit awhile. Sip some wine and watch the sun sink low over Lake Erie and the city skyline. When you present your love with a diamond cluster ring, the twinkling stars and city lights will make it sparkle.

2. At an upscale restaurant

Lola, a classy bistro owned by celebrity chef Michael Symon, has been rated by Zagat as the most popular restaurant in Cleveland. Select a bottle of wine from the extensive list (which your server will present to you on an iPad) and browse a menu full of fresh, local ingredients.

If you're ready to propose, consider spending an evening romancing your lady in Little Italy. Osteria Di Valerio & Al is full of charm, with happy guests drinking wine and dancing to Frank Sinatra tunes played by a live band. 

3. At a classy bar

Stepping into The Velvet Tango Room is like traveling back through time. The sconces on the wall softly illuminate the roomy couches and dark wood, while live jazz and black and white movies play in the background. Make sure you're dressed to the nines, like your fellow ladies and gents will be. Order a martini or a lime fizz, which chef Michael Symon raved about on Food Network as the best thing he ever drank. As you toast to your love, surprise your lady with a diamond cluster ring. The entire evening is sure to be unforgettable.

Plan an evening in Ohio City, Cleveland's walkable artisan neighborhood, which is dedicated to creating a thriving community of local merchants. The Market Avenue Wine Bar has a funky charm, with exposed brick walls, soft lighting, and a blend of antique and modern decor. In the spring, request a seat on the patio and enjoy people-watching as you relax with a drink. The servers are knowledgeable about the wine selection and can recommend food pairings (try a fruit and cheese plate or the baked brie with warm bread).

Get ready to propose by finding a stunning, affordable engagement ring at My Trio Rings.

Photo courtesy of Flickr user joshuarothhaas

My husband and I were married last winter, after a year of planning and decisions and details. Because we were saving for a home and investing in our small business, we were committed to planning a wedding on a budget. At the same time, we wanted our wedding to be one of the most beautiful days of our lives, and one that was as free of stress as possible. I'm happy to say that we accomplished our goal to stay sane throughout the planning and the wedding day, and we learned these five things in the process.

1. Remind yourself frequently, "Our wedding is a stress-free zone."

You wouldn't believe how many times I said this to myself, silently and out loud. Remember that your wedding is about celebrating your love and commitment to your partner, so it would be a shame to let worries about money and logistics steal your joy. If you feel yourself getting anxious or upset about something, take a deep breath and put it out of your mind for a while. Before you come back to it, recommit to making your wedding a stress-free zone. 

2. Decide where to save and where to splurge.

My husband and I decided to invest in the items most important to us -- photography, food, and music -- and seek out inexpensive options for most everything else. We bought affordable wedding rings, reasonably priced wine, and a beautiful wedding dress on closeout. To finance our honeymoon, we encouraged guests to donate to our Honeyfund account instead of sending us a gift. It wasn't important to us to provide wedding favors, so we simply skipped them. Make a list of items you want for your wedding and rank them in order of priority. Splurge on the items at the top of the list, and save on the ones at the bottom.

3. Limit your guest list to close friends and family.

Given the astronomical costs of the average wedding -- currently more than $25,000 -- people will understand not being invited when they hear that you're keeping your wedding small. Let's put it this way: Are you willing to pay around $100 for your second cousin once removed to eat a sit-down dinner? Although I couldn't afford to invite my extended group of local friends to my wedding, I wanted to include them in the celebration. I sent an email early in the planning process to let them know that I was keeping my wedding small, but I'd love for them to join me at the after-party. Guess what? They completely understood. Plus, those who were planning a wedding on a budget themselves didn't feel obligated to invite me.

4. Find vendors through your network.

I live in a small community, and my husband and I made good use of our local connections to find vendors for our wedding. A few traded labor with my husband; for example, he designed a website for someone in exchange for professional lighting at our reception. Other vendors knew that we were planning a wedding on a budget and liked us enough to give us a good rate on their services; in turn, we recommended them to others as often as possible. We asked two dear friends to play music during the ceremony as their gift to us, and they were honored to be part of our big day. Think about your own connections, and the skills that you could trade with wedding vendors, or loved ones who have similar talents.

5.  Make decisions by asking yourselves, "What do we want for our wedding?"

You'll get tons of unsolicited advice from friends and strangers (Exhibit A: this very blog post!), and you'll probably feel pressure of some kind from your families. Take other opinions into consideration if you like, but keep coming back to what will make you and your partner happy on your wedding day. If you're lucky, it'll be the only one you ever have, so tune out the noise and make your own decisions. 

Stay within your budget by finding affordable wedding rings at My Trio Rings.

Photo courtesy of Flickr user sinksanctity.

This post is part of the My Trio Rings Precious Places series, which uses Mashable's Top 10 Cities for Getting Engaged list for inspiration. 

Milwaukee may be known more for its beer than its romantic destinations, but if you're ready to propose, the lakeside city just might surprise you with all that it has to offer. 

Where to Propose in Milwaukee

Against a beautiful outdoor backdrop

Milwaukee Riverwalk is one of the city's most beautiful walkable areas. Three miles long, it stretches through the heart of downtown and features public sculptures, scenic views, and restaurants and breweries. Take a 360-degree tour online and pick out the spot where you'll present her with a stunning diamond cluster engagement ring.

Consider bringing an evening picnic to watch the sunset at South Shore Park in Bay View. Eat a romantic dinner together at one of the picnic tables and go for a leisurely walk on the beach. When the moment is right, kneel down in the sand and pop the question. 

If you're ready to propose in the spring or summer, Bradford Beach is a perfect choice. Enjoy the sunshine together, sip a tropical drink at the tiki bar, and splash around in Lake Michigan. Take a stroll on the soft sand and find the right moment to ask her to marry you.  

During a romantic dinner

Lake Park Bistro is well known as one of the most romantic restaurants in Milwaukee. Reserve a lake view table at sunset and choose from the extensive wine list. Whatever you order from the menu of French cuisine is sure to be delicious, whether it's filet mignon or fresh fish. The terrace is a beautiful place to present a diamond cluster engagement ring after the meal and ask for her hand.

A three-course dinner cruise on Lake Michigan is a beautiful place to propose. The Edelweiss has several options for two-hour cruises, where you'll enjoy a three-course meal with wine while gazing at spectacular views of Lake Michigan at night.

If you're ready to propose to someone who loves Italian food, make a reservation at The Pasta Tree. The restaurant has won many awards for Best Italian Food and Most Romantic Restaurant in Milwaukee. The homemade pasta melts in your mouth, and the secret garden patio will make you feel as if you're actually in Bella Italia. 

Before you propose in Milwaukee, select a diamond cluster engagement ring that she'll love -- without straining your budget.

This post is part of the My Trio Rings Precious Places series, which uses Mashable's Top 10 Cities for Getting Engaged list for inspiration.

Houston, Texas, may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think "romantic." Nonetheless, the city may be just the place for a creative proposal. Houston holds many natural and cultural gems, some of them just off the beaten path. 

Where to Propose in Houston

1. In a natural setting

The Houston Arboretum is full of opportunities to romance your sweetheart. Read through the trail descriptions and plan a day outdoors together. Consider visiting the Carol Tatkon Sensory Garden, in which you can touch and smell the fragrant garden around you. On the eastern edge of the Arboretum, spend time in the meadow where you can listen for bullfrogs and songbirds and watch wildlife in its natural habitat. While you can't picnic in the Arboretum, you can do so next door at Memorial Park. When the moment is right, kneel down on the grass and present your lady with the perfect diamond cluster ring.

Another possibility is proposing in one of the many beautiful areas of Hermann Park, on the spot that overlooks McGovern Lake, or next to the large reflection pool surrounded by oak trees. The peaceful stone paths and bridges of the Japanese Garden are romantic, as well. 

Discovery Green is one of the most popular community gathering spaces in Houston. In the heart of the park, walk along the promenade and see 360-degree views of the city skyline. During the summer, you can catch live concerts on the lawn at lunchtime and after hours, or see outdoor movies on a big screen. For a creative proposal, pack a picnic and choose a film that you know she likes. Bring a bag of popcorn with the ring box nestled in the middle. Imagine her surprise when she dips in for a handful of popcorn and discovers a diamond cluster ring!

2. At an upscale restaurant

Esquire has called the cozy Mockingbird Bistro "one of the best new restaurants in America." The head chef describes the seasonally updated menu full of colorful, fresh ingredients as "country-French-meets-American." Try the steak or scallops and order a glass of bubbly to top off the meal.

If you're looking for magnificent views of Houston's skyline, make a dinner reservation at The Spindletop, the only revolving rooftop restaurant in the downtown area. Enjoy complementary valet parking and ride up in the glass elevator. Take in the view as the restaurant slowly spins, watching the compass points on the windows to keep your bearings, and try the champagne pairings with the dessert menu for a decadent experience. Consider this creative proposal: ask your server to place the ring in the bottom of your champagne glass, so when you make a toast, the glint of a diamond will catch her eye. 

On its website, the Lexington Grille says that it's "the best restaurant you have NEVER heard about…and that's just how we like it." Expect a quiet, romantic ambience with white table linens, candlelight, and elevated American cuisine.

3. At a world-class hotel

The concept suites at the elegant Hotel ZaZa set the mood for a romantic getaway: themes include "West Indies" and "Moulin Rouge." Request that chocolate-dipped strawberries and champagne await you when you arrive. After you settle in for the night, share a meaningful toast that you've prepared and present her with the diamond cluster ring of her dreams.

Although the Houstonian Hotel, Club, & Spa is located within two miles from the best attractions of Houston, staying there feels like you're tucked away in the country. Ranked by Travel & Leisure magazine as one of the world's best hotels, the Houstonian is set on 18 wooded acres visible through the floor-to-ceiling windows of the rooms. The Houstonian's fitness club and spa are first-class and offer a wide variety of classes and treatments. If you're up for a splurge, indulge in the Tranquility for Two spa package that includes stone therapy massages and lunch or dinner. 

Before you plan your creative proposal, pick out the perfect diamond cluster ring.

This post is part of the My Trio Rings Precious Places series, which uses Mashable's Top 10 Cities for Getting Engaged list for inspiration.

If you're ready to propose, Chicago is a city that's brimming with possible settings for your special moment. The city has made it easy for you to scout out places to propose: It has a great variety of online tours of Chicago, with themes ranging from Parks to Music & Art. 

When you've picked out the perfect diamond cluster ring, consider popping the question in one of these romantic places.

Where to Propose in Chicago

1. In a beautiful outdoor setting

One of the most popular spots in the city is Buckingham Fountain in Grant Park. The fountain lit up at night is breathtaking. 

Lincoln Park has many lovely spots for those who are ready to propose. Lincoln Park Zoo is free of charge and open 365 days per year. It features a full calendar of special events, including tours of the beautiful gardens. Take a walk to the Alfred Caldwell Lilly Pool or pack a picnic to enjoy at sunset by Lincoln Park Lagoon and get down on one knee in the grass. Remember to bring champagne!

Millennium Park also offers a number of charming places to propose. Consider a leisurely stroll in Lurie Garden, or visit Cloud Gate, a giant public sculpture nicknamed "The Bean." It reflects the city skyline in its face of polished stainless steel. Stand under the archway of The Bean together when you pop the question. The reflection of the diamond cluster ring in the metal sculpture will dazzle her! 

2. Over a romantic dinner or drinks

North Pond is a favorite for many locals and visitors in Chicago. Nestled within Lincoln Park and set beside a pond, the restaurant has a romantic view of the city skyline. The menu at North Pond sources fresh ingredients from local farmers. Splurge on the seasonal tasting menu for your special occasion.

There are few meals more romantic than fondue, and Gejas Cafe doesn't disappoint. Choose from the extensive wine list and enjoy dinner with live flamenco music in the background.

Take her breath away with a view of the Chicago skyline at night from the Signature Lounge on the 96th floor of the John Hancock Center. You'll love the premium martinis and gourmet menu, which will complement her diamond cluster ring perfectly.

3. On a lighthearted adventure

If your lady loves cheesecake, take her to the famous Eli's Cheesecake for a tasting. If you call ahead and explain that you're ready to propose on-site, you may be able to convince the staff to prepare a couple of slices with "Will You Marry Me?" written on them in icing.  

A boat tour of lake Michigan is a beautiful excursion by day or night. There are so many companies and routes to choose from that you're sure to find a trip that she'll love.

Catch an evening comedy show at the renowned Second City, which has graduated performers including Stephen Colbert and Tina Fey. The actors are so accustomed to improvisation that they may enjoy incorporating your proposal into a skit. If you know that your lady will be thrilled by receiving a diamond cluster ring onstage before an audience, then this is the opportunity of a lifetime!

If you think you might be ready to propose, take a look at our selection of diamond trio rings and see which set speaks to you!

This post is part of the My Trio Rings Precious Places series, which uses Mashable's Top 10 Cities for Getting Engaged list for inspiration.

Who knew that Hamilton, Ohio, was one of the most popular places in the U.S. to propose? Part of the Cincinnati metropolitan area in Southwestern Ohio, the historically industrial Hamilton is known as "The "City of Sculpture" because it is attempting to revitalize itself through the arts. 

Where to Propose in Hamilton, Ohio

Though it may not be as well known as nearby Cincinnati, Hamilton is a great town in which to carry out your creative proposal idea -- if you know where to look, that is. Here are a few of the coolest places to propose:

1. Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum

This park is one of the most beautiful highlights Hamilton has to offer. When the weather is nice, take your loved one on a walk (you have 265 acres to choose from!) and admire the many different sculptures that grace the landscape. A particularly unique feature of the park is the 10,000 square foot Ancient Sculpture Museum that displays Greek, Roman, Egyptian, and Etruscan sculpture. Pyramid Hill's ultimate goal is to be the only art park in the world to represent the complete history of sculpture of mankind, and it's well on its way. Scout out the grounds in advance to find a sculpture that represents your relationship with your bride-to-be. When you come back with her by your side, present her with a diamond cluster ring and share why you chose this sculpture as your romantic backdrop.     

2. Holiday Auto Theatre 

What could be more romantic than watching a drive-in movie with your sweetheart? Drive-in theaters are hard to come by nowadays, which will make the experience at the Holiday Auto Theatre all the more exciting. Choose a romantic film or a lighthearted comedy, something that you know she'll enjoy. Pay a $5.00 fee to bring in your own food, or stop by the Refreshment Center and buy some popcorn and her favorite kind of candy. Cuddle up during the movie, and as the credits roll, surprise her by popping the question. When you tell the story of your engagement later, you'll receive a lot of compliments for your creative proposal idea!

3. Hanover Winery 

An unexpected find in Hamilton is Hanover Winery, which produces more than 20 wines on site and holds wine tastings and community events on their beautiful grounds. Choose an event -- such as an outdoor concert -- from the schedule on the winery's website. Bring a blanket and picnic, and pick up a bottle of wine in the tasting room. As the sun sets, present your lady with a diamond cluster ring that will sparkle with the fading rays of light.

4. Flub's Dari-Ette 

If your loved one is a kid at heart, consider this creative proposal idea: asking for her hand in marriage at this old-style ice cream shop. Flub's Dari-Ette has been serving up frozen treats for more than 40 years, including soft-serve cones, slushies, and cyclones (with delicious names like "Mike's Chocolaty Marshmallow"). Imagine her surprise when she reaches for her order and turns around to find you on one knee!

5. Hamilton Oktoberfest 

The Oktoberfest celebration in Hamilton is more than 45 years old. It's held by the Liberty Home Association, a German club that brings authenticity to the annual event. Enjoy the freshly made bratwurst, sauerkraut, and other German foods (make sure to bring some breath mints!) and sample the liberally flowing beer. Once you surprise your lady with a diamond cluster ring, you can celebrate by sharing your news with the multi-generational partygoers and dancing to live music. Prost!

Pick out a special engagement ring to add the perfect touch to your creative proposal idea, or save by selecting a trio ring set. 

This post is part of the My Trio Rings Precious Places series, which uses Mashable's Top 10 Cities for Getting Engaged list for inspiration.

Ready to propose? Los Angeles offers a great many romantic settings, and you're sure to find one that suits the personality of your bride-to-be. Whether she's a nature lover, a true romantic, or a gal who loves a good show, you'll find a spot that she'll remember for the rest of her life.

Where to Propose in Los Angeles

1. In a picturesque garden

With 134,000 square feet to choose from at the Central Garden at the Getty Center, you're sure to find a spot for your proposal. The description from the garden website says it all: 

The walkway traverses a stream that winds through a variety of plants and gradually descends to a plaza where bougainvillea arbors provide scale and a sense of intimacy. Continuing through the plaza, the stream cascades over a stone waterfall or "chadar," into a pool with a floating maze of azaleas. Specialty gardens encircle the pool. All of the foliage and materials of the garden have been selected to accentuate the interplay of light, color, and reflection.

The Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden is full of quaint proposal spots. The Queen Anne Cottage is set on the edge of a lake and is surrounded by magical-looking Blue Gum Trees. Consider presenting her with a diamond cluster ring in front of Mayberg Waterfall, a relaxing destination surrounded by tropical plants.

2. At a romantic restaurant

Il Cielo Restaurant in Beverly Hills is known as one of the most romantic restaurants in L.A. and often makes "Best Places to Propose" lists. Sit on the garden patio, which glows with tiny white lights. Enjoy decadent Italian food before presenting your sweetheart with a diamond cluster ring after the meal.

Geoffrey's Malibu is a favorite for couples who love an ocean view. Request a table by the rail and breathe in the sea breeze as you dine on fresh seafood and New American cuisine. After dessert and wine, take a walk on the beach below and take a knee on the sand as you pop the question.

3. At a show or theme park

Hollywood is, of course, world famous for its entertainment industry, and nearby Anaheim is well known for its theme parks. When you're ready to propose to a woman who loves arts and entertainment, you have your pick of venues. 

The improv comedy troupe at M.I.'s Westside Comedy Theatre in Santa Monica will actually work your proposal into a sketch if you email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

If your lady loves theme parks, think about proposing at Disneyland, "The Happiest Place on Earth." The Sleeping Beauty Castle makes for a beautiful backdrop, and the fireworks show will make her diamond cluster ring sparkle.

If you're ready to propose, choose from our wide selection of high-quality, affordable diamond engagement rings.

Season 16 of "The Bachelor" ended last night with the most controversial outcome in the history of the show: Bachelor Ben Flajnik proposed to contestant Courtney Robertson, whom America loves to hate. Many doubt that the couple will survive the media firestorm that they've faced since this season began airing. When Courtney's unkind treatment of the other contestants has come to light, Ben pulled away from Courtney and even briefly called off the engagement. 

Despite the challenges that may lie ahead for Ben and Courtney, there are several tips that you can glean from the steps leading up to his proposal. These lessons will be useful even if you're planning a wedding on a budget.

1. Make sure that you're ready to propose.

As Ben narrowed down the group of women from 25 to the final two, he asked himself whether he could picture a future with each woman. The women who were most open with him, the adventurous ones, and the ones with whom he could be completely himself were the contestants who made it until the end. When it came time to pick out an engagement ring, Ben said that he had only one woman in mind to receive it. Though he was nervous, he felt completely ready to propose to Courtney.

Lesson: Figure out your own set of "must-haves" and deal breakers. Envision yourself proposing to your loved one and see how it makes you feel. Is this the person for you? Are you ready to propose?

2. See how you fit into each other's families.

Once Ben had chosen his final four contestants, he traveled to meet each of their families. He felt comfortable with three out of four of the families, and the parents of each of those women gave their blessing to an engagement. Ben said that he could see himself naturally fitting in with each of them. However, the family of the fourth woman, Kacie Boguskie, was aloof and revealed to Ben some fundamental differences between him and Kacie. Though it was difficult for both of them, he decided to end their relationship. 

Lesson: It's important that you and your partner know each other's families and understand what you'll be marrying into. Is it essential to you to be close to your partner's family, or is it OK with you to keep your distance if you don't get along? 

3. Choose a romantic backdrop.

Ben proposed to Courtney in picturesque Zermatt, Switzerland, with the Matterhorn in the background. Neither could stop talking about how breathtaking they found the views, and how the setting felt like part of a fairy tale. It was an unforgettable place to propose.  

Lesson: Even if you'll be planning a wedding on a budget and can't afford to whisk your love away to Switzerland, you can choose a romantic setting for your proposal. Take her to the place where you had your first date, or where you said "I love you" for the first time. Arrange for an inexpensive weekend getaway to a charming town nearby. Choose a setting that will complement the beautiful moment you're about to share. 

4. Select a diamond ring that she'll love.

In keeping with "Bachelor" tradition, Ben proposed to Courtney with a sparkly Neil Lane diamond ring. The center stone is cushion cut, and pavé diamonds surround it and line the band. Ben reportedly designed the ring just for Courtney, and upon receiving it on last night's finale, she gushed about how gorgeous it was.

Lesson: Engagement rings on "The Bachelor" typically cost around $60,000, and if you're planning a wedding on a budget, there's no way you can spend that kind of cash. Fortunately, you have a wealth of options for a high-impact diamond engagement ring that is also affordable. Consider buying a trio wedding ring set will be cheaper than buying each ring individually.

5. Prepare a few romantic words to share when you propose.

When Ben proposed to Courtney, he said, "Whenever I'm with you I have these incredible moments. You know, I thought to myself I could see myself with this woman for the rest of my life. I want you to know that I think you're an incredible woman." He continued, ""I have waited a really long time to tell you that I am in love with you more than you will ever know and this whole experience and journey has been worth it every step of the way." He ended with, "You are my forever." 

Lesson: Think about the words you'd like to share with your bride-to-be that capture how she makes you feel, and why you want to spend the rest of your life with her. You don't need to write a speech, but do say a few heartfelt words before the four most important: "Will you marry me?"

When you're ready to propose, choose the perfect engagement ring or trio wedding ring set. 

This post is part of the My Trio Rings Precious Places series, which uses Mashable's Top 10 Cities for Getting Engaged list for inspiration.

If you're planning a creative proposal, the possibilities abound in San Francisco. With dozens of well-known landmarks, romantic waterfront destinations, and breathtaking views, the City by the Bay will capture your heart.

Where to Propose in San Francisco

1. San Francisco Landmarks

You'll find a variety of romantic spots in Golden Gate Park, including the Queen Wilhelmina Tulip Garden and the Japanese Tea Garden. Walk with your lady hand-in-hand through the Conservatory of Flowers, a greenhouse and botanical garden that features a beautiful collection of plants. As she stops to admire a flower that catches her eye, get down on one knee and present her with a striking diamond cluster ring.

The Palace of Fine Arts is lovely by day and gorgeous by night, when its rotunda lights up the pond by which it sits. It's the perfect place for a romantic stroll that culminates in a proposal.

If your bride-to-be is adventurous, a San Francisco cable car is the perfect place for a creative proposal. Look at the route in advance and select an area of the city that suits her (Nob Hill and Ghirardelli Square are two possibilities). She'll already be giddy from cruising up and down the hills, and she'll be ecstatic when you pop the question. Ask your cable car driver to ring the bell in celebration of your engagement, and don't be surprised if your fellow passengers applaud!

2. Along the water

The famous "Bay to Breakers" race in San Francisco is so named because it begins on the eastern side of the city along the San Francisco Bay and ends on the western side, at the Pacific Ocean. This means that you have plenty of coastline to choose from when planning where you'll propose.

Along the Pacific, take a walk along Ocean Beach. The cold and fog are staples along the coast, so bundle up and prepare to get cozy in order to keep warm. Ask her to close her eyes for a moment and write, "Will you marry me?" in the sand. Another option is to treat her to a romantic meal at the Cliff House. While she admires the ocean views, catch her gaze and ask for her hand.

On the San Francisco Bay, choose from a number of lovely spots. Watch the adorable sea lions at Pier 39, ride the carousel, or visit the aquarium. Each one makes provides a picturesque backdrop for her diamond cluster ring.

3. From up on high

The world-famous Top of the Mark sky lounge crowns the InterContinental Mark Hopkins Hotel. From the 19th floor, you can enjoy live music and take in views of some gorgeous San Francisco landmarks, including the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz. The Top of the Mark offers a special package for your creative proposal, including a bottle of bubbly and a Top of the Mark chocolate ring box. 

Twin Peaks is known for having some of the most magnificent views in all of San Francisco. Take a drive at night and park the car so you can admire the lights of the city.

Coit Tower sits atop Telegraph Hill and is a well-known landmark in San Francisco. Consider climbing the steep Filbert Steps from the bottom of the hill. Upon arriving at the top, out of breath and marveling at the view, drop to one knee and propose. This creative proposal is for active types only!

Before you propose in San Francisco, choose a diamond cluster ring that will dazzle her.

Photo credit: Shutterstock

This post is part of the "My Trio Rings Precious Places" series.

If you're looking for proposal ideas, take a look at the list recently released by Mashable: the Top 10 Cities for Getting Engaged, according to Facebook. Today we begin a series of posts that profile each city and highlight the best places to get down on one knee and present your love with a beautiful diamond cluster ring. 

Where to Propose in Atlanta

Atlanta, Georgia, blends big-city culture with relaxed Southern charm. Here are three types of Atlanta proposal ideas for you to consider:

1. An elegant restaurant

During dinner, excuse yourself and secretly slip the diamond cluster ring to your waiter, with a request to bring it out with dessert or champagne. If there's a live band, approach during a break and request that the band play a song that means something to you and your sweetie. Here are a couple of the most romantic restaurants in Atlanta:

Bacchanalia is consistently rated as one of the Top 10 restaurants in Atlanta and has been number one in the Zagat guide since 1996. It's also often mentioned as one of the best places to propose. Relax into the cushy banquettes and enjoy the classy ambience, the friendly waitstaff, and the creative menu (with the chef sending out several small bites called "gifts" throughout the meal).

Set atop the Westin Peachtree Plaza, the Sun Dial Restaurant and Bar rises 73 stories above the city and rotates, offering breathtaking 360-degree views. The top floor revolves completely every half hour, the bottom floor every hour. 

2. A peaceful park

Take a walk hand-in-hand through the 30-acre Atlanta Botanical Garden and admire the beauty of the rare plants and flowers. You'll take your lady's breath away when you present a diamond cluster ring against such a gorgeous natural backdrop. The 10,000 square foot Fuqua Orchid Center is especially romantic. 

Plan a picnic at Centennial Olympic Park and surprise her with strawberries, champagne, and a sweet proposal. Or, if she's the adventurous type, playfully grab her hand and run through the Fountain of Rings. It's the largest interactive foundation in the world and is tiled in the shape of Olympic rings. Once you two are lightly soaked and laughing, get down on one knee in the middle of one of the rings and ask for her hand.

3. A center of culture 

If your bride-to-be loves to see a show, romance her at the theatre or the symphony. Propose at dinner before the show, or during an evening walk afterward, while you're both enraptured by the magic of the stage.

The Fox Theatre is a beloved historical landmark and the perfect place to take in dinner and a show. Dress up for the special occasion, and take in the gorgeous grandeur of the theatre.

The Grammy-award winning Atlanta Symphony Orchestra performs at several venues in town, including the Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre at Encore Park. With 200 concerts per year to choose from, you're sure to find one that she'll fancy.

Before you propose in Atlanta, find a diamond cluster ring that she'll love. 

Photo credit: j3ku. 

When you're shopping for a bridal ring set, you need to consider several different factors. You'll need to keep your purchase within your budget. You'll also want to pick trio wedding rings that best suit your tastes. In addition to a wedding band that works for you, the setting of your diamonds is a large part of the style of your rings.

Here are three of the most common settings for trio wedding rings:

1. Prong Setting / Claw setting

Prong settings, or claw settings, are the most popular and most classic style, especially for solitaire rings. Four prongs show more of the diamond's surface area, while six prongs hold the gem more securely. It's typical for this setting to give the impression that the diamond is floating above the band, letting in more light and enhancing its sparkle. One downside to prong settings is that the prongs may occasionally catch on hair or clothing.

2. Cluster Setting

 Cluster settings group smaller diamonds together into a shape. Simple shapes include circles and squares, and more intricate shapes include flowers and leaves. My Trio Rings offers a wide selection of trio wedding rings with cluster settings because they are less expensive than large solitaire diamonds. They also provide an impressive visual impact. 

3. Channel Setting

 Channel settings in a bridal ring set embed stones into the band. In an engagement ring, they accent a solitaire diamond or cluster beautifully. Channel settings come in many different patterns. Some line the top of a band, and others form an artistic pattern around the entire band. One advantage of choosing a channel setting for your trio wedding rings is that the bands clearly complement each other, symbolizing your union as a married couple.

If you haven't discovered Pinterest yet, it's time that you do. The site allows you to share the beautiful and interesting things that you find on the web quickly and easily. It's free to register on Pinterest, and it's incredibly useful for discovering creative budget wedding ideas. 

Start by visiting Pinterest.com and start a free account. Select the people whose pinboards you want to follow (both friends and those you don't know personally). Then create pinboards for the topics that interest you, such as "Recipes," "Ideas for the Home," and, of course, "Wedding Inspiration." With the click of your mouse, you can now pin the photos you discover on the web and repin photos that other people have shared on their boards. One word of caution: Pinterest is seriously addictive.

Here are 5 ways that you can use Pinterest to plan the budget wedding of your dreams:

1. Save-the-Dates and Invitations

The easiest way to decide on the style of Save-the-Dates and Invitations is to look at a variety of examples and see what catches your eye. Do you prefer a modern design, or a more classic one? Splashy or understated? Whether you are planning a destination wedding or a homegrown event, you'll find inspiration for wedding planning on a budget.

2. Engagement & Wedding Photography

You may have rolled your eyes when you've seen run-of-the-mill engagement and wedding photography. Make sure to avoid cheesy poses yourself by finding creative shots on Pinterest and showing them to your photographer. Get ideas for props you can use in your engagement photos, such as chalkboards for writing fun messages, and start brainstorming unexpected settings. Give your photographer suggestions for uncommon wedding day poses and shots to capture.

3. Wedding Decor

Pinterest users (or "Pinners") share wedding decor ideas galore. Find pictures of gorgeous place settings for indoor or outdoor weddings, sweet wedding favors, and simple flower arrangements. You're sure to find the perfect accents for your budget wedding, including eco-friendly and DIY options. .

4. Bridal Style

You'll find many different ideas for bridal style on Pinterest. Pictures of wedding dresses range from elegant to simple to funky. You'll find ideas for wedding day shoes, jewelry, and styles for every kind of hair. There are even accessories that you can make yourself if you're wedding planning on a budget.

5. Honeymoon

What kind of honeymoon would you like to follow your budget wedding? One of the biggest benefits of Pinterest is that it displays a plethora of beautiful photos side by side. You can browse through them and decide whether you'd like to save or splurge on your honeymoon, and what kind of experience you'd like to have. Do you want to lounge on a tropical beach? Go camping in the wilderness, or ride the roller coasters at a Disney theme park?

BONUS - 6. Follow My Trio Rings!

My Trio Rings has created a number of pinboards which cover unique engagement and wedding rings spanning the entire web in addition to pictures of the latest ring styles and designs in the industry and by My Trio Rings. Follow the pinboards to see updates to these boards!

To look for wedding ideas on Pinterest, hover over the "Everything" option on your home screen with your mouse, then choose "Wedding & Events" from the drop-down menu. You can also use the Pinterest search bar to search by keyword for a specific type of item.

Happy pinning!

Last edited; 4/18/2012. Photo credit: Pinterest

If you are planning a wedding on a budget, you will still want your wedding to reflect who you each are, and who you are as a couple. For some people, helping others and giving back to their communities are important passions. If that describes you, then you may want to think about how you can make the world a better place through your budget wedding, in addition to choosing to purchase conflict-free diamonds or incorporating environmentally friendly elements of a green wedding. You will also want to think about how to do this while still staying on budget.

Those of you who followed the royal wedding closely will be interested to know that the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, instead of registering for tangible wedding gifts, asked their families, friends, and fans to give money to a charitable foundation in celebration of their marriage. They distributed over one million British pounds to some of their favorite causes, including charities that support sick children, military families, and environmental protection.

The royal couple may not have been exactly planning a wedding on a budget, but their ability to make a difference in the world through a celebration of their love can be pulled off on any budget. Here are a few ideas to get you started.

-Purchase wedding jewelry made from conflict-free diamonds
-Use reusable rather than disposable dishes and decorations
-Donate to a favorite charity instead of purchasing wedding favors for your guests
-Register for some charitable gifts in addition to more traditional gifts
-Choose to use local businesses rather than large chain stores as much as possible for your wedding vendors to help your community’s economy
-Send your guests home with tree seedlings to plant in their yards as a wedding favor

What other creative ideas do you have for making a difference on your wedding day?

Photo Credit: Corey Ann

When most people think about honeymoons, they imagine decadence and total relaxation. But even after being practical and planning a wedding on a budget, it can be difficult to settle for anything less than a dream honeymoon. Fortunately, with a little creativity, a budget honeymoon can very closely resemble the honeymoon of your dreams. Many couples dream about honeymooning in Europe, but even airfare alone can be prohibitively expensive for such a trip. If that is your dream, keep your eye out for special airfare deals on your favorite discount travel websites, and check out books from your local library about how to see Europe on a tight budget.

But if Europe is your dream, think about ways to stay closer to home for your budget honeymoon while still recreating the European experience. If you want an experience similar to a small village or town in Europe; wandering narrow streets, peeking into tiny local shops, and eating innovative cuisine at restaurants that aren’t part of a chain, then consider finding a nice hotel or bed and breakfast in a place like Montpelier, Vermont or New Orleans, Louisiana. This is an excellent opportunity to unwind and relax with your new spouse after all the hard work you put into planning a wedding on a budget – and you don’t have to take an eight-hour flight to get there!

Or if you want something a little more action-packed, think Las Vegas for your budget honeymoon. Bellagio, Caesar’s Palace, Paris Las Vegas, and the Venetian are some of the resort hotels that offer European ambiance and experiences closer to home. Right there on the Las Vegas strip, you can take a gondola ride along a canal, visit a replica of the Eiffel Tower, enjoy luxurious suites decorated with European décor, and eat in a divine outdoor French bistro – in addition to being within walking distance of great shows, exotic animals, and a variety of nightlife. In Venice, Italy, the most luxurious hotels start at over $2000 per night for a room. For a fraction of that price, you could spend a week of luxury in Las Vegas, especially if you are able to find a package deal on your favorite travel website.

If you’re still working on planning a wedding on a budget, you might also want to consider Las Vegas as an excellent option for saving money with a wedding and honeymoon in one, since there are so many different places to get married in Las Vegas. Especially in the off season, Las Vegas resorts sometimes offer amazing deals.

Photo Credit: Jim G

Around the world, wearing a wedding ring sets the tone for the commitment of marriage, as it is a public symbol of one’s wedding vows. The traditional practice of exchanging of rings and wearing them on the fourth finger has a history and significance that has changed over thousands of years. Depending on a person’s country of residence and religion, they may wear their engagement and wedding rings on the left hand or the right.

People wear wedding rings on their left hands in many Western countries, such as the United States, Mexico, Chile, Slovenia, Iran, and European nations including the UK, Italy, and France. In Asian countries, people also tend to wear the band on the left hand.

In Northern and Eastern European countries, including Denmark, Norway, Russia, Poland, and Bulgaria, it is more common to wear the wedding ring on the fourth finger of the right hand. In Portugal, Spain, and Greece, this is also the custom. Swedish brides wear unique wedding ring sets of three: the engagement ring, the wedding band, and the ring of motherhood.  

Traditional Indian practice is to wear the wedding ring on the right hand, because the left hand is considered unclean. However, modern Indians may wear the ring on the left hand to match the custom in countries such as the United States. Orthodox Greeks also wear the wedding ring on the right hand, in accordance with Roman tradition; the word “left” in Latin means “sinister,” whereas the word for right is “dexter,” the root of “dexterity.”

In Brazil, the fiancé and fiancée wear plain bands as engagement rings on their right hands, and upon saying their vows, they switch the rings to the left hand. It is common in Germany and Netherlands to do the opposite: that is, to wear engagement rings on the left hand and wedding rings on the right.

In the Jewish tradition, the groom slips the ring on the index finger of the bride because it is the most prominent finger. Today, the bride typically moves the band to her ring finger after the ceremony.

Whether one wears engagement and wedding rings on the left hand or right varies by country and religion. However, there are wedding ring sets to suit any tradition, and the customer service staff at My Trio Rings is more than happy to help find the set for you.

Photo Credit: Grand Vela Rivieras Maya

If you're planning a wedding, you know that your expenses, from flowers to catering, add up quickly. Fortunately, with a little creativity you can have a classy wedding without breaking the bank. Here are three budget wedding sites that will guide you along the way. With suggestions like printing your own invitations or buying wedding ring sets instead of individual rings, these sites are well worth a look.

1. Best Wedding Budget Ideas

The author of the Best Wedding Budget Ideas site says that she created it after helping her daughter plan an elegant but inexpensive wedding. She offers advice such as borrowing wedding planning books from the library and reading the bridal magazines there, and buying a special occasion dress -- such as a bridesmaid or Prom dress -- rather than a wedding dress.

2. Dream Weddings on a Budget

This colorful website showcases creative examples of ways you can save money on your wedding. It suggests places to buy wedding ring sets and other inexpensive jewelry, and it features real-life couples with unique wedding ideas.

Among the most helpful elements of this budget wedding site are its how-to articles, which include how to make your own wedding bouquet and how to do your own hair. It also suggests personalized but simple gifts for your wedding party.

3. Real Simple

Real Simple is a magazine dedicated to making daily life easier. It also has one of the best looking and most helpful budget wedding sites. Money-saving tips include scheduling your wedding during off-season, and on a day other than Saturday.

The site also features topic-specific checklists to ensure that you don't miss any crucial details. For example, The Ultimate Wedding Planning Checklist walks you through the wedding planning process, from a year before the wedding to the week of.

If you find yourself wondering how you'll ever pay for your wedding, rest assured that there are hundreds of tips and tools online to help you. For starters, check out The Best Free Wedding Budget Tool on TheKnot.com.

What are your favorite budget wedding sites? Leave a comment!