In a world where traditions are constantly evolving, the trend of women proposing to men is gaining ground. Recent data from Google shows that searches for “male engagement rings” have surged by 22% globally, indicating a shift in relationship dynamics. To explore this growing trend, jewellery retailer Diamonds Factory spoke with Tracey Hall, who proposed to her partner Mike in December 2021. Tracey’s story sheds light on this modern approach to relationships and offers inspiration to others considering breaking with tradition.
Tracey and Mike met online in 2019, and their connection was immediate. Reflecting on their journey, Tracey said, “From the very beginning, our relationship was built on deep mutual love and respect. Mike has always been my biggest supporter in everything I do. He embodies kindness, compassion, and heartfelt sincerity — like something out of a movie. I had never experienced anything like it before.”
Their relationship moved quickly, with the couple moving in together by the end of 2019. But it wasn’t until September 2020, when Tracey attended her son’s wedding during a brief break between lockdowns, that she realised she wanted to marry Mike. “Watching my son get married made me reflect on my own relationship with Mike,” she explained. “I knew I wanted that same commitment and connection with him.”
Inspired by her son’s wedding, Tracey took the bold step of planning a proposal. She arranged a pre-Christmas weekend getaway at a local spa hotel, where they could relax and unwind after the stress of the pandemic. “It was the perfect escape from the craziness of the world,” she said. The weekend was filled with luxurious treatments, fine food, and quiet moments — an ideal setting for her proposal.
However, as with many proposals, things didn’t go entirely to plan. Tracey had intended to propose with a necklace engraved with the words “Will you marry me?” But the necklace arrived just hours before their trip, leaving no time for the engraving. Instead, she improvised by writing the message on a small note and wrapping it around the pendant.
The proposal itself took place on the final morning of their getaway, during breakfast in their hotel room. “I was nervous but excited,” Tracey recalled. “I wanted the moment to be intimate and special, just for us. I decided to propose over breakfast, wrapping up a wonderfully romantic weekend away.”
Mike, who was raised with more traditional values, was completely surprised by Tracey’s proposal. “He was genuinely shocked — it caught him off guard,” Tracey said. “But he was deeply touched, a little emotional, and incredibly happy. Of course, he said yes.”
After their engagement, the couple shared the news with family and friends, all of whom were supportive. “Our loved ones were thrilled for us,” said Tracey. “I think some of the older generations might have more set ideas about proposals, but our friends and family were just happy that we’d found each other and were taking this next step.”
Tracey also reflected on the broader trend of women proposing to men and how societal attitudes have shifted. “I don’t think the taboo is as strong as it once was,” she said. “I know a few friends who’ve proposed to their partners, and it’s becoming more common. I believe if you love someone, you should go for it, regardless of tradition. What better way to show your love?”
Her final piece of advice for women considering proposing themselves? “Just do it!” she urged. “Don’t worry about what others might think or say. Be mindful of how and where you propose, but honestly, that applies to any proposal. Mike and I aren’t ones for grand public gestures, so I made sure the moment was private and meaningful for us.”
Tracey and Mike plan to marry on December 12th, 2024, capping off a love story that began in a modern way, with a woman proposing to the man she loves — and a world of possibilities for others to follow suit.
This trend of women proposing, along with the rise of male engagement rings, suggests that more couples are embracing new ways to express their commitment, reflecting changing attitudes towards gender roles in relationships. As traditions continue to evolve, love stories like Tracey and Mike’s are inspiring a generation to take charge of their own romantic journeys.
For more information, visit http://www.diamondsfactory.de and https://www.thecalmqueen.co.uk/