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

If you’re looking for an engagement ring on a budget, you have a variety of choices. Your standard solitaire engagement ring in a brick-and-mortar jewelry boutique is likely to be quite expensive. However, My Trio Rings now offers both diamond cluster rings and affordable solitaire engagement rings to fit into your wedding budget. If you thought that a solitaire diamond ring was out of your reach, consider the new line of affordable solitaire engagement rings from My Trio Rings.

1. Did you ever think you could get a solitaire engagement ring for as low as $349.99? Consider this ring, a 1/3 carat solitaire engagement ring set in 10 K white gold. The ring features a central solitaire diamond nestled between two smaller diamond clusters shaped like leaves.

2. For $599.99, you can choose an affordable solitaire engagement ring with 14 K white gold band, a central round-cut solitaire diamond, and a ring of smaller diamonds in a straight line around the band of the ring. The total diamond weight for this beautiful ring is 1/2 carat. If you are interested, each of these diamond solitaire rings also can be paired with a matching wedding band set for an affordable price.

3. If you are hoping to pick a solitaire ring over a diamond cluster ring, you might consider this 1/2 carat ring from My Trio Rings which features a 14 K yellow gold band, a solitaire princess-cut diamond, and a small line of clustered diamonds on either side of the solitaire head.

Start shopping for affordable solitaire engagement rings today!

Photo Credit: My Trio Rings

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.

Seven years after becoming a couple, and six children later, Brad Pitt has decided to make it official with his long-time girlfriend Angelina Jolie. CNN confirms that Brad Pitt spent over a year working with a California jeweler named Robert Procop to design a diamond cluster ring to best fit his bride-to-be’s finger as well as her personality.

As of yet, the media has not gotten a good look at the diamond cluster ring that Brad Pitt designed for Angelina Jolie, but a recent Glamour blog post speculates about what the ring might look like. All that we know is that Pitt and Procop spent a long time searching for the perfect center diamond for the ring, and that a ring of side diamonds surrounds Jolie’s entire ring finger. Some experts are guessing that the center diamond is a large emerald-cut diamond.

Would you like a diamond cluster ring that looks like Angelina Jolie’s? Here are some affordable wedding rings that may look something like hers.

1. One option is a 3/8 carat white gold engagement ring with a center square of sixteen small diamonds and parallel bands of diamonds leading down around the side of the ring. This custom My Trio Rings engagement ring is $399.99.

2. Another ring choice is a 1/2 carat diamond cluster ring set in 14 K white gold. This ring has 9 small diamonds arranged in a central square, with small side diamonds along the band for $399.99.

3. A different 1/2 carat diamond cluster ring with 14 K white gold features a square-shaped arrangement of small diamonds in the center, with parallel bands of side diamonds for $469.99.

And don’t forget, you can always ask the My Trio Rings designers to customize an affordable wedding ring that best fits your taste. Get started today!

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.

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

When you start planning a wedding on a budget, it may seem like purchasing a diamond cluster ring is just another item on your to-do list. Depending on your point of view, it might seem overwhelming to shop for such a big purchase, or it might seem like a really straightforward shopping trip.

But before you run to a jewelry store or click “purchase” on a wedding jewelry website, slow down for just a minute and consider all that this purchase means. A diamond cluster ring is a physical symbol of your lifetime commitment to your spouse. After all, we all know that a diamond is forever! A diamond cluster ring means that you give each other the future, no matter what it holds. It means that you will stay together through thick and thin.

As a result of the lifelong importance of your purchase, you will want to make sure that you make a wise investment when you purchase a diamond cluster ring.

How to Invest in a Diamond Cluster Ring

1. While you are planning a wedding on a budget, allow an adequate budget for a high quality diamond engagement ring made from conflict-free diamonds. You can probably save money if you choose such products as a diamond cluster engagement ring or a trio wedding ring set.

2. Select a timeless ring design that will symbolize your love and commitment for many years to come rather than choosing a trendy look that one or both of you might tire of over time.

3. Choose a ring that you can afford to buy with a clear conscience, without jeopardizing your wedding budget or your future financial security. Don’t spend more than your ring budget.

4. Take excellent care of your ring by getting it cleaned and inspected regularly.

5. Insure your ring through your insurance company to protect against loss or damage.

Check out these timeless rings from My Trio Rings!

Photo credit: ShadowWolf13

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.

Buying a diamond ring can be intimidating, to say the least, especially since it is something that most people don't do very often in their lifetime. If you're uncertain about how to proceed, go no further than this affordable wedding ring set buying guide to get you on the right track.

1. What is a trio wedding ring set?

One of the best deals you can get on conflict-free diamond jewelry is when you purchase rings as a set. A trio wedding ring set represents your most affordable option. This is a set of three rings: an engagement ring, a ladies' wedding band, and a men's wedding band. The three ring set offers an excellent value because it costs less to manufacture, market, and ship the rings as a package set. This savings is passed on to the consumer as well, especially if the affordable wedding ring set is purchased from a reputable online retailer with low overhead costs. Many jewelers such as My Trio Rings also offer a significant savings on two wedding bands bundled as a set or a bridal ring and an engagement ring bundled as a set, even if you don't need an entire trio set.

2. What is a diamond cluster ring?

A diamond cluster ring is a ring which consists of a cluster of smaller diamonds rather than one large diamond solitaire. Each smaller stone is a real, conflict-free diamond, but the rings are more affordable since smaller diamonds are less expensive. The grouping of diamonds together offers a similar visual impact to diamond solitaire rings for a much lower price.

3. What is a conflict-free diamond?

A conflict-free diamond is a real diamond which is certified to be ethically mined and sold. My Trio Rings is a company that offers customers the assurance that the diamonds used in each affordable wedding ring set are guaranteed conflict free. This means that the proceeds from the initial diamond sales were not used to fund armed conflict in troubled areas of the world.

Need more information?

*The 4 C’s
*Proper Diamond Care
*Ring Insurance
*Ring Purchasing Timetable

Photo credit: josemanuelerre

The word is spreading about where to find high-quality, real diamond engagement and wedding rings at affordable prices.

My Trio Rings mostly serves customers in the United States, but it has seen increasing international demand, as well. Trio wedding ring sets have been shipped to Nigeria, the UK, Switzerland, Qatar, Trinidad and Tobago, St Lucia, Canada, Kergistan, Australia, Finland, Kuwait, Dominican Republic, Korea, and more. One couple in the Philippines, Lester and Hydee Ico, share more about their experiences as international wedding jewelry customers.

What were your priorities when choosing a trio wedding ring set?

My priorities in choosing a wedding trio were the quality of the ring, especially the diamonds, and the assurance that the rings would be sent exactly as I ordered. As a customer, I usually check online sites which would give me the perfect type of ring that my wife and I would like at a minimal price. That's when I found My Trio Rings.  I was amazed with the design and also with the prices that they have compared to those stores with good quality rings but with very high prices.

Was it easy to order your trio wedding ring set online from My Trio Rings?

Well, to tell you honestly, there were some problems regarding the order I made. At the time I ordered the set, the online site showed that the set was in stock, but after I made my order, they told me that it was already out of stock. [Because Lester’s diamond cluster ring set of choice sold out minutes before his order went through, My Trio Rings upgraded Lester’s set at no additional charge, from a diamond cluster ring set to a diamond solitaire ring set in the same style but with a larger, more valuable stone in the engagement ring. Lester and his wife Hydee are some of the first customers to experience My Trio Ring’s soon-to-be-released line of affordable diamond solitaire jewelry.]

How did you choose your trio wedding ring set?

I chose these rings based on what my wife wished me to have. It was all about our communication as a couple to select the rings that should be purchased.

What do you like best about your rings?

The thing I like most about the rings is the upgrade that they have done for my wife's engagement ring.

What do your friends and family think about your rings?

Well, as other people will say about a couple wearing a diamond set, it is whoa! Also, they were excited when they saw my wife's engagement ring with one stone in the middle that was made just for us and isn’t even on the online site yet. Thanks to My Trio Rings, and your excellent diamond sets and customer service. 

Photo credit: Lester and Hydee Ico

You proposed to your fiancee with a family heirloom engagement ring. Now it is time to start thinking about wedding bands. You want to find a great deal, even though you already have an engagement ring and don't need a money-saving trio wedding ring set.

With My Trio Rings, you can still get a really good deal on a diamond cluster ring, even if you don't need rings in a set of three. The trick is going to be finding the right match to your existing ring. If the engagement ring is very plain, then almost any style of wedding band could conceivably look nice. Or if the ring is more ornate, you may wish to opt for a more plain wedding band. Whatever style your diamond cluster ring is, here are a few simple, timeless wedding bands to match almost any style or any budget.

1. Option 1 is a 14K gold ring. It has two straight rows of 1/4 carat diamonds with a thin center band of smooth white or yellow gold. [You will likely want to choose yellow gold to match an antique yellow gold ring and white gold to match an antique white gold, silver, or platinum ring. Most of these rings are available in 14 K yellow gold or 14 K white gold for the same price.] This band will run you $183.99 for a ladies' band, or $458.99 for a set which includes matching wedding bands.

2. Option 2 is a slender 14 K gold band with a straight line of 5/8 carat diamonds nestled right against the smooth edge of the gold band. This beautiful yet simple diamond cluster ring costs $203.99 for the ladies' band or in a matching his-and-hers set for $581.99.

3. Option 3 confirms that you don't need to purchase a trio wedding ring set to find a great deal. This elegant 14 K gold ring features one straight line of 1/5 carat diamonds nestled in a subtly patterned gold band which is plan enough to go with almost anything but which also exudes great elegance. This ring is $275.99 for the ladies' band and $678.99 for a matching diamond cluster ring set.

Photo credit: derbymuseums

Being a modern consumer means not knowing firsthand where exactly all of your purchases come from and in what condition they were produced.

Do you know the farmer who grew your sweet potatoes? Do you know exactly where your gas comes from? Have you been to the country where your running shoes were manufactured? What about the real diamond cluster ring you hope to purchase as an engagement ring?

When it comes to diamonds, your assurance as a consumer comes from the Kimberley Process. Slightly more than a decade old, the Kimberley Process is an international diamond certification scheme that is intended to reassure consumers that the diamonds they are purchasing were mined and sold under fair conditions and that the proceeds from these jewels that symbolize eternal love are not being used to fund things such as armed conflicts. The Kimberley Process is certainly reassuring, but it is not without its problems.

There are difficulties inherent to regulating and monitoring the diamond trade, especially in areas experiencing civil unrest. This is why many different groups are involved in keeping tabs on the diamond trade under the auspices of the Kimberley Process, specifically in regions of the world undergoing political turmoil. In early December 2011, one of the watchdog groups, Global Witness, dropped out of the Kimberley Process, voicing their disagreement about certain diamonds of questionable origins being released into the world market from Zimbabwe. Despite this action, the United Nations supported the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme in a December 20, 2011, press release, and they promised global diamond consumers that they will help further strengthen the system.

As a consumer, you are not likely to travel to Africa, where a large percentage of the world's diamonds are mined, and you are not likely to have the ability to personally check up on diamond mines. Instead, you rely on the Kimberley Process to ensure that the diamond cluster ring you have your heart set on is in fact made from conflict-free diamonds. How can you do this?

1. Only purchase wedding jewelry from a jeweler who can guarantee that your ring of choice is in accordance with Kimberley Process regulations, meaning that to the best of their knowledge, it is made from conflict-free diamonds. My Trio Rings is dedicated to providing consumers with diamonds that are certified conflict-free, as regulated by the United Nations and the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme. In fact, our organization is one of the 72 companies in the world that has the ability to buy diamonds from De Beers. Since we only use diamonds that were bought from the De Beers mines and were cut in our factories, we are able to guarantee that all the diamonds are Kimberly-certified. 

2. Compose emails, write letters, or make phone calls to your state and national representatives, asking them to support the United Nations promise to strengthen the Kimberley Process. Your input can further ensure that American consumers are able to continue to purchase certified conflict-free diamonds with confidence.

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In today's climate of extreme budgeting and cutbacks, you might not feel certain that you can afford the wedding of your dreams – or even the wedding ring of your dreams. However, an inexpensive trio wedding ring set might be just the answer you are looking for to find timeless, elegant style at an affordable price.

Some jewelers offer better prices on three rings purchased together as a set an engagement ring, a ladies' wedding band, and a men's wedding band than these three rings purchased separately. Basically, an inexpensive trio wedding ring set saves you money because it saves the jeweler money. It is less expensive for a jeweler to manufacture, ship, and market coordinating rings as a set, and it saves you time and money, too.

You are likely to save even more money if you are willing to forego a diamond solitaire ring and instead invest in a diamond cluster ring. Just like a solitaire ring, a diamond cluster ring is made from real diamonds that are certified conflict-free. However, instead of one big expensive diamond, the ring is made from a cluster of smaller high-quality diamonds. The visual impact of a diamond cluster ring is the same as a solitaire ring, as the grouping of diamonds gives both elegance and luster. However, the cost is much less, since it is cheaper to mine perfect diamonds that are smaller in size.

An inexpensive trio wedding ring set that is comprised of diamond clusters will save you even more money, but they will still last you a lifetime. You will likely wish to insure your wedding jewelry, just as you would for more expensive selections, and you care for the jewelry in the same way. Now all you need to do is decide what style suits you best!

Photo Credit: Flickr (dccraftaholic128)

You probably don’t like the idea of importing the rigid gender dynamics of the Victorian Era into your own wedding and marriage. You probably also don’t want the added expense or diminished privacy of a female chaperone accompanying you on your honeymoon. But if a budget wedding is on your mind, there are many bygone customs that just might fit the bill.

1. Host a morning wedding.

For much of the Victorian Era, it was the law that weddings take place in the morning. A morning wedding could be an excellent choice for your budget wedding, because it might make the venue less expensive to rent, since morning weddings are not as common today. Also, a wedding breakfast could be significantly less expensive than a meal at another time of day, since there would be less expectation of alcohol or expensive meat or seafood entrees. Light pastries and fruits, for example, could be an economical choice for a wedding breakfast.

2. Use vintage clothing and décor.

You may be able to find a vintage look wedding gown from a thrift store or antique store for a much better price than at a modern wedding boutique, or you may be able to borrow one from a costume rental store. White was not a common wedding gown color during the Victorian age, so you could also cast a wider net and look for a range of pastel shades, which would give you more budget wedding dress choices. Just be certain to pair your dress with a long lace veil, a fashion started by Queen Victoria herself.

Whether you choose a new diamond cluster ring or vintage wedding jewelry, look for more intricate, old-fashioned styles.

For your wedding decorations, look for intricate and frilly touches at garage sales, antique stores, and even in Grandma’s attic. Those old crocheted doilies could be re-purposed for centerpieces at the reception tables. Some stores might even let you simply rent or borrow such used decorations inexpensively rather than buying them.

3. Go easy on the flowers.
 
The bride only needs a small, tightly clustered budget wedding bouquet for an authentic Victorian wedding. Instead of expensive, exotic flowers, pick simple flowers with sentimental meanings. White carnations, for example, signify pure love, while red roses indicate true love. For an authentic Victorian touch, add some ivy to the bouquet like Queen Victoria. She started a tradition of planting wedding bouquet ivy, which symbolizes endurance in the language of flowers, and passing on cuttings of the ivy to her children and grandchildren in later years. Besides, fewer flowers mean more attention on your diamond cluster ring!

Photo Credit: Le Petit Poulailler

You are ready to propose. One of the best ways to make sure that your girlfriend will like the diamond cluster ring that you picked out is to ask her ahead of time. Now, asking for your girlfriend’s input makes it difficult to plan an engagement that is a complete surprise, but some women will prefer to choose their own engagement ring, since it is an accessory that they will be wearing for life. Of course, you may have a strong sense of your girlfriend’s taste and sense of style, or you may have a girlfriend who has dropped a few pointed hints in your direction about her taste in rings.

For a surprise diamond cluster ring set, your best bet is to choose a classic style that will look good on anyone. Stay away from more unusual styles unless you are confident that your girlfriend will love the style, or you are picking the style out together.

There has been a lot of buzz lately about whether the celebrity engagement (and recent weekend wedding) of reality television star Kim Kardashian with basketball star Kris Humphries started off on the wrong foot as a result of Kim’s engagement ring.

Kim’s engagement ring is a large 20.5 carat diamond cluster ring with two different hues of stones. It takes up most of the bottom half of her ring finger, leaving little discernable room for a wedding band. Its asymmetrical shape makes it look gaudy and almost fake. Many wonder whether Kim had any input in the choice of this bold diamond cluster ring.

The safest bet is for you to avoid this possible celebrity engagement faux pas by either choosing a more classic style or asking your bride-to-be for her input. If you wish to create a surprise engagement, then you may also wish to be open to the possibility that she would like to take advantage of My Trio Ring’s free return policy in order to choose a style that is more to her taste.

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The U.S. economy may still be weak, but that is no reason to put your wedding plans on hold. You have met the love of your life, and you are ready to take the next step to make a lifetime commitment to each other. The weak economy just serves as a good reminder to use your resources wisely by spending your hard-earned money on a high-quality, low-cost three piece wedding ring set, especially a set composed of diamond cluster rings.

Diamond cluster rings are a wise investment, since they are real diamonds of a smaller size grouped together for high visual impact and low cost. Many popular jewelry designers today offer larger diamond solitaires supplemented with clusters or bands of smaller diamonds, but the diamond solitaire makes such rings much more expensive than diamond cluster rings without a large, central diamond.

Even if you can afford the ring options from a standard jeweler, the choices are much more complicated. By exploring your options online, you can avoid feeling pressured by salespeople in an in-person jewelry store.

On the My Trio Rings website, it is easy to navigate the three piece wedding ring set choices as well as the options of other combinations of rings, if you already have one of the rings in hand. All you need to do is pick a style you like that fits into your budget, and you can make decisions about your three rings with one easy click.

On jewelry websites which do not offer such combination deals, in addition to being far more expensive, it is complicated to navigate the various ring designs and figure out which rings coordinate with each other. For example, on popular jewelry websites such as kay.com or jared.com, you must search for each ring type separately, based on different styles and collections of each type of ring. For those of us who aren’t jewelry insiders, even the online ring search on such sites is frustrating and confusing. You may find an engagement ring that you like, but is it in your budget? Will it coordinate with a beautiful but budget-friendly wedding band?

Take the complicated guesswork out of the equation, and make your life a little easier with one-stop-shopping for a three piece wedding ring set.

Photo Credit: Anthony Easton (Flickr: PinkMoose)

For years, you daydreamed about meeting the man of your dreams. And, let’s be honest, when you met him, you fantasized about the perfect proposal. Now, at last, after looking at inexpensive wedding ring sets together and picking a beautiful diamond cluster ring as your engagement ring, an important part of that fantasy is about to come true – showing off your engagement ring (and then your coordinating wedding band) to your friends at work. It is thrilling to have someone notice the telltale sparkle on your hand and ask to see your diamond cluster ring.

But believe it or not, this part of your fantasy may not happen exactly as you expect it to. In many professions, the wearing of jewelry, even inexpensive wedding ring sets, is not permitted, so you may have to show off your diamond cluster ring on your own time.

The main reason that jewelry wearing is discouraged or prohibited in many professions is safety. In certain hospital units, for example, doctors and nurses are not supposed to wear jewelry that could catch on the hospital equipment. Others aren’t supposed to wear jewelry that would snag on their disposable latex exam gloves. For people such as carpenters and mechanics, there is also a concern that rings or other jewelry could catch on machinery and cause injuries.

If you work in a field in which you are not allowed to wear your diamond cluster ring, you may wish to think of other creative solutions. Perhaps you could wear your engagement ring and wedding band on a necklace. In some professions, it is common to pin wedding jewelry to one’s uniform or carry it in a special bag in a pocket. Or perhaps, depending on your job, you will wish to keep your jewelry safe at home in a special jewelry box while you are at work, and you can show off your sparkles on evenings and weekends. But even if you are free to wear your jewelry at all times, don’t forget to insure your wedding jewelry and care for it properly!

Photo Credit: Adam Lehman