“Terrifying, empowering, and totally worth it.” This was one woman’s reaction after proposing to her boyfriend, a “role reversal” trend that has steadily been picking up steam in recent decades. No longer content to play lady in waiting, many females are taking the initiative when it comes to the proposal, and almost all find themselves [...]
Add To Cart“Will you be my…husband?”: The Woman’s Proposal
“Terrifying, empowering, and totally worth it.”
This was one woman’s reaction after proposing to her boyfriend, a “role reversal” trend that has steadily been picking up steam in recent decades. No longer content to play lady in waiting, many females are taking the initiative when it comes to the proposal, and almost all find themselves writing a new story in the process. From titanium engagement rings to titanium wedding band sets, women are feeling empowered by presenting to their beloved The Ring with The Question attached.
In our society it is often assumed that women just want to get married, while men must be responsible about whether or not they want to “settle down”. When women were denied social and economic agency, it made some sense that the man be the one to decide whether or not he was able to support a family. But now, with spouses as equal partners, each should be allowed equanimity in making a responsible decision to marry.
Legend has it that in the 5th century, after St Bridget complained to St Patrick that women were having to wait too long for a man to propose, St Patrick agreed that desiring females would be allowed one day in February, during a Leap Year, to take matters into their own hands. It was also decided that if turned down, the woman could then extract a fine from the man or be given a beautiful garment.
Our existing cultural narrative about getting engaged is a double bind for females, because while it insists that the proposal means everything, the woman has little to no control over whether or not it happens. Women are silenced on the subject, afraid to be labeled as a “nagging girlfriend” or worse – to be made to feel that her boyfriend proposed just to appease her. It’s more than enough to drive a woman a little crazy.
“Will you be my…husband?” Luckily, for a woman thinking about getting a titanium wedding band around her man’s finger, there’s company. According to a 2003 survey reported by USA Today, almost half of U.S. women would propose marriage themselves, and nearly 1/3 of Americans know a woman who has actually done so. Seven out of ten men welcome this trend, and eight out of ten say they would accept a proposal from a woman.
Modern jewelers are on the pulse as well, designing durable, yet fashionable male engagement rings. While most are more understated than their female counterparts, they are no less worthy for symbolizing love and commitment. Alternative metals such as titanium reflect a utilitarian male aesthetic, creating a strong band that can withstand heavy wear.
While many of the same ideas that work for traditional male proposals can also work for women, subtle differences can keep it romantic without pushing the man into a feminine role. To help assuage nerves and help things to go more smoothly, it is a good idea to find out if your man is receptive to a woman leading the proposal process beforehand. A good way to do this is by having conversations together about marriage, family, and life goals. Honesty and good communication will help a couple proceed confidently in their union no matter who is doing the asking.
“Will you be my…husband?”: The Woman’s Proposal
$“Terrifying, empowering, and totally worth it.”
This was one woman’s reaction after proposing to her boyfriend, a “role reversal” trend that has steadily been picking up steam in recent decades. No longer content to play lady in waiting, many females are taking the initiative when it comes to the proposal, and almost all find themselves writing a new story in the process. From titanium engagement rings to titanium wedding band sets, women are feeling empowered by presenting to their beloved The Ring with The Question attached.
In our society it is often assumed that women just want to get married, while men must be responsible about whether or not they want to “settle down”. When women were denied social and economic agency, it made some sense that the man be the one to decide whether or not he was able to support a family. But now, with spouses as equal partners, each should be allowed equanimity in making a responsible decision to marry.
Legend has it that in the 5th century, after St Bridget complained to St Patrick that women were having to wait too long for a man to propose, St Patrick agreed that desiring females would be allowed one day in February, during a Leap Year, to take matters into their own hands. It was also decided that if turned down, the woman could then extract a fine from the man or be given a beautiful garment.
Our existing cultural narrative about getting engaged is a double bind for females, because while it insists that the proposal means everything, the woman has little to no control over whether or not it happens. Women are silenced on the subject, afraid to be labeled as a “nagging girlfriend” or worse – to be made to feel that her boyfriend proposed just to appease her. It’s more than enough to drive a woman a little crazy.
“Will you be my…husband?” Luckily, for a woman thinking about getting a titanium wedding band around her man’s finger, there’s company. According to a 2003 survey reported by USA Today, almost half of U.S. women would propose marriage themselves, and nearly 1/3 of Americans know a woman who has actually done so. Seven out of ten men welcome this trend, and eight out of ten say they would accept a proposal from a woman.
Modern jewelers are on the pulse as well, designing durable, yet fashionable male engagement rings. While most are more understated than their female counterparts, they are no less worthy for symbolizing love and commitment. Alternative metals such as titanium reflect a utilitarian male aesthetic, creating a strong band that can withstand heavy wear.
While many of the same ideas that work for traditional male proposals can also work for women, subtle differences can keep it romantic without pushing the man into a feminine role. To help assuage nerves and help things to go more smoothly, it is a good idea to find out if your man is receptive to a woman leading the proposal process beforehand. A good way to do this is by having conversations together about marriage, family, and life goals. Honesty and good communication will help a couple proceed confidently in their union no matter who is doing the asking.
“Terrifying, empowering, and totally worth it.”
This was one woman’s reaction after proposing to her boyfriend, a “role reversal” trend that has steadily been picking up steam in recent decades. No longer content to play lady in waiting, many females are taking the initiative when it comes to the proposal, and almost all find themselves writing a new story in the process. From titanium engagement rings to titanium wedding band sets, women are feeling empowered by presenting to their beloved The Ring with The Question attached.
In our society it is often assumed that women just want to get married, while men must be responsible about whether or not they want to “settle down”. When women were denied social and economic agency, it made some sense that the man be the one to decide whether or not he was able to support a family. But now, with spouses as equal partners, each should be allowed equanimity in making a responsible decision to marry.
Legend has it that in the 5th century, after St Bridget complained to St Patrick that women were having to wait too long for a man to propose, St Patrick agreed that desiring females would be allowed one day in February, during a Leap Year, to take matters into their own hands. It was also decided that if turned down, the woman could then extract a fine from the man or be given a beautiful garment.
Our existing cultural narrative about getting engaged is a double bind for females, because while it insists that the proposal means everything, the woman has little to no control over whether or not it happens. Women are silenced on the subject, afraid to be labeled as a “nagging girlfriend” or worse – to be made to feel that her boyfriend proposed just to appease her. It’s more than enough to drive a woman a little crazy.
“Will you be my…husband?” Luckily, for a woman thinking about getting a titanium wedding band around her man’s finger, there’s company. According to a 2003 survey reported by USA Today, almost half of U.S. women would propose marriage themselves, and nearly 1/3 of Americans know a woman who has actually done so. Seven out of ten men welcome this trend, and eight out of ten say they would accept a proposal from a woman.
Modern jewelers are on the pulse as well, designing durable, yet fashionable male engagement rings. While most are more understated than their female counterparts, they are no less worthy for symbolizing love and commitment. Alternative metals such as titanium reflect a utilitarian male aesthetic, creating a strong band that can withstand heavy wear.
While many of the same ideas that work for traditional male proposals can also work for women, subtle differences can keep it romantic without pushing the man into a feminine role. To help assuage nerves and help things to go more smoothly, it is a good idea to find out if your man is receptive to a woman leading the proposal process beforehand. A good way to do this is by having conversations together about marriage, family, and life goals. Honesty and good communication will help a couple proceed confidently in their union no matter who is doing the asking.
Related Products
Top Wedding Trends for 2013
Top Wedding Trends for 2013
If you've been to a wedding lately but might have mistaken it for a music video, circus, or mountain expedition, you're not alone! Weddings have gotten freaky, fantastic, and far-removed from the traditional little white chapel occasions that dominated generations past. Weddings have gotten a little less fit-the-mold and a little more be-yourself. DIY has become the norm, and that's why wedding galleries like these never get boring!
iPhone Groom & Bride
2013 is going to be an exciting year - we've outlived the rapture and Mayan apocalypse and more states are legalizing same-sex marriage! Here at Minter & Richter we've got an inside look at what may prove to be some of the year's hottest wedding trends. Check it out!
1. COLOR: What's cool and refreshing in summer and spring (think mojitos), yet can also provide comfort and warmth in winter or fall (hot cocoa) ...?
MINT is the new green.
Mint is what you make it: retro, girly, clean, classy...
Mint Rapunzel doesn't let her hair down for just anybody.
Minter & Richter - "When the Light is Gone, Love Remains" Titanium Wedding Band
Mirror, mirror on the wall, who is the one who doesn't want to blend in with the walls?
Minter & Richter - "Midori" Sandblasted Titanium Wedding Ring
2. BEAUTY: What happens when simple knots and twists are taken to the next level...?
Back to the basics with BRAIDS.
Elegant, Romantic, and won't sneak into your cake or kiss!
Go with the flow on your wedding day...
DIY wow.
3. DECOR: Did you ever cut out a paper heart in elementary school for somebody special...?
CUT-IT-OUT. Laser Cuts wow by adding a modern or vintage look to dress, decor, invites, you name it.
Vintage Lace gets a modern twist.
Bold design.
Honeycomb-cell bracelet.
Elevated. Overstated.
4. FOOD: What's often fruit-filled, and always fantastic....?
PIE takes the cake!
Cuts like cake, smashes like pie.
Eat your heart out!
Hap-pie-ly Ever After.
5. JEWELRY: What could be more traditional than a ring that will maintain its shining strength and beauty generations beyond gold and silver?
TITANIUM is getting hot, hot, hot! Extremely durable, 100% hypoallergenic, and with a lower price point than many other metals, titanium wedding bands continues to surge in popularity. MOKUME meets titanium:Featuring uniquely patterned metal-stock styled in the Mokume Gane tradition of Japan, our new M3 line of titanium rings are a modern interpretation of an ancient metal art. Originally created in 17th century Japan as adornment for samurai sword handles and sheaths, Mokume Gane reflects the finest hour of craftsmanship - reproducing the intrinsic beauty of mother nature herself. Bold!
Minter & Richter "Lava"
Mokume
Minter & Richter "Into the Universe"
Mokume earrings
Minter & Richter "Katana"
What do you predict will be big in weddings for 2013? We'd love to hear your thoughts!
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Top Wedding Trends for 2013
$If you've been to a wedding lately but might have mistaken it for a music video, circus, or mountain expedition, you're not alone! Weddings have gotten freaky, fantastic, and far-removed from the traditional little white chapel occasions that dominated generations past. Weddings have gotten a little less fit-the-mold and a little more be-yourself. DIY has become the norm, and that's why wedding galleries like these never get boring!
iPhone Groom & Bride
2013 is going to be an exciting year - we've outlived the rapture and Mayan apocalypse and more states are legalizing same-sex marriage! Here at Minter & Richter we've got an inside look at what may prove to be some of the year's hottest wedding trends. Check it out!
1. COLOR: What's cool and refreshing in summer and spring (think mojitos), yet can also provide comfort and warmth in winter or fall (hot cocoa) ...?
MINT is the new green.
Mint is what you make it: retro, girly, clean, classy...
Mint Rapunzel doesn't let her hair down for just anybody.
Minter & Richter - "When the Light is Gone, Love Remains" Titanium Wedding Band
Mirror, mirror on the wall, who is the one who doesn't want to blend in with the walls?
Minter & Richter - "Midori" Sandblasted Titanium Wedding Ring
2. BEAUTY: What happens when simple knots and twists are taken to the next level...?
Back to the basics with BRAIDS.
Elegant, Romantic, and won't sneak into your cake or kiss!
Go with the flow on your wedding day...
DIY wow.
3. DECOR: Did you ever cut out a paper heart in elementary school for somebody special...?
CUT-IT-OUT. Laser Cuts wow by adding a modern or vintage look to dress, decor, invites, you name it.
Vintage Lace gets a modern twist.
Bold design.
Honeycomb-cell bracelet.
Elevated. Overstated.
4. FOOD: What's often fruit-filled, and always fantastic....?
PIE takes the cake!
Cuts like cake, smashes like pie.
Eat your heart out!
Hap-pie-ly Ever After.
5. JEWELRY: What could be more traditional than a ring that will maintain its shining strength and beauty generations beyond gold and silver?
TITANIUM is getting hot, hot, hot! Extremely durable, 100% hypoallergenic, and with a lower price point than many other metals, titanium wedding bands continues to surge in popularity. MOKUME meets titanium:Featuring uniquely patterned metal-stock styled in the Mokume Gane tradition of Japan, our new M3 line of titanium rings are a modern interpretation of an ancient metal art. Originally created in 17th century Japan as adornment for samurai sword handles and sheaths, Mokume Gane reflects the finest hour of craftsmanship - reproducing the intrinsic beauty of mother nature herself. Bold!
Minter & Richter "Lava"
Mokume
Minter & Richter "Into the Universe"
Mokume earrings
Minter & Richter "Katana"
What do you predict will be big in weddings for 2013? We'd love to hear your thoughts!
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Win a $200 Minter & Richter Gift Certificate!
Win a $200 Minter & Richter Gift Certificate!
Okay, so we've pinned. We're on board. We get it! Now we want to mix it up and have a little fun. We want to know:
Enter our Pinterest 'Ring-spiration' Contest Today!
WINNER WILL RECEIVE A $200 MINTER & RICHTER GIFT CERTIFICATE!
RULES FOR ENTRY:
1) Follow Minter & Richter Designs on Pinterest.
2) Create a board inspired by a Minter & Richter Titanium Ring (maximum of 6 pins including ring).
3)Title the board Minter & Richter 'Ring-spiration' Contest/ Your Name.
4) Submit your board URL to lynn@minterandrichterdesigns.com by DECEMBER 13.
4)We will select and re-post our five favorite boards on the Minter & Richter Pinterest page on DECEMBER 14th and open voting to the public for one week to determine a winner.
5) The winner will be announced on DECEMBER 21st at NOON.
**Limit One Entry Per Person**
Thanks for Playing!
Win a $200 Minter & Richter Gift Certificate!
$Okay, so we've pinned. We're on board. We get it! Now we want to mix it up and have a little fun. We want to know:
Enter our Pinterest 'Ring-spiration' Contest Today!
WINNER WILL RECEIVE A $200 MINTER & RICHTER GIFT CERTIFICATE!
RULES FOR ENTRY:
1) Follow Minter & Richter Designs on Pinterest.
2) Create a board inspired by a Minter & Richter Titanium Ring (maximum of 6 pins including ring).
3)Title the board Minter & Richter 'Ring-spiration' Contest/ Your Name.
4) Submit your board URL to lynn@minterandrichterdesigns.com by DECEMBER 13.
4)We will select and re-post our five favorite boards on the Minter & Richter Pinterest page on DECEMBER 14th and open voting to the public for one week to determine a winner.
5) The winner will be announced on DECEMBER 21st at NOON.
**Limit One Entry Per Person**
Thanks for Playing!
Favorites Photo Gallery: ‘Ring-scapes’
Favorites Photo Gallery: ‘Ring-scapes’
Receiving photos from our customers is like having a fresh bouquet of flowers delivered to the office...
Bringing light, color, passion and.... pumps!
We're an online business, so it's not often that we actually get to meet our customers face to face. They come from Poland and Pennsylvania, Bhutan and Boston - with love stories as varied as the landscapes and languages they live in.
Kiwi Couple
Sometimes pictures are the simplest of translations.
Here are a few of our favorite "Ring-scapes"...
Ring's Best Friend
Wild Thing
DJ Love
The Sword and the Ring
Thank you kind and beautiful customers for sharing your happiness :)
Favorites Photo Gallery: ‘Ring-scapes’
$Receiving photos from our customers is like having a fresh bouquet of flowers delivered to the office...
Bringing light, color, passion and.... pumps!
We're an online business, so it's not often that we actually get to meet our customers face to face. They come from Poland and Pennsylvania, Bhutan and Boston - with love stories as varied as the landscapes and languages they live in.
Kiwi Couple
Sometimes pictures are the simplest of translations.
Here are a few of our favorite "Ring-scapes"...
Ring's Best Friend
Wild Thing
DJ Love
The Sword and the Ring
Thank you kind and beautiful customers for sharing your happiness :)
$
Keeping the Love Alive: Titanium Wedding Band Care
Keeping the Love Alive: Titanium Wedding Band Care
When it comes to wedding bands, titanium is one of the strongest and longest-lasting metals around. But like any good marriage, a titanium wedding band will need love and care to keep it shining as bright as the day it was put around your finger. The inevitable surface scratches and scuffs from every day wear may be particularly evident in a new ring, but over time will develop a natural, even satin patina over the entire surface. Your level of activity and wearing habits will dictate how often the band will need a good cleaning and polish. The finish, color and inlay of your titanium wedding band will determine the method you use to clean your band.
Cleaning Titanium:
It is likely that you already have on hand the common household cleaning materials to care for your titanium wedding band. Liquid dish soap can remove any dirt and grease build up, and an ammonia glass cleaner can be used for shine. Wash and dry your ring with a soft towel or lint-free cloth.
Polishing Titanium:
Apply a cream metal polish with a jewelry care cloth to remove minor scratches in your titanium wedding band. Use liquid dish soap to wash away any polish residue. For titanium wedding bands with a satin or brushed finish, use a fine nylon pad (available at most auto care stores) to restore the soft look of the finish. Avoid rubbing any surface with anodized color, as it will take the color right off.
Cleaning Rings with Wood Inlays:
Titanium Wedding bands with wood inlays can easily be cleaned and polished with a little water and vegetable or mineral oil. Applying a good microcrystalline wax polish such as Renaissance Wax will offer added protection to your wood inlay.
Cleaning Anodized Rings:
Skin oil, soap residue and other contaminants can leave a film that can cause anodized color to look dull. Revive your anodized titanium wedding band by soaking it in glass cleaner for 3 minutes, then rinsing it in warm water before allowing it to air dry. Repeat the cleaning process if necessary. Remember never to wash anodized rings with cleaners containing abrasives.
Having you and your spouse’s bands professionally cleaned and polished can be a wonderful anniversary surprise.* Some couples opt to have personalized engraving added to the interiors of their bands on their first anniversary. With a little TLC, your titanium wedding bands will continue to shine, mirroring your commitment to care for each other throughout life.
* Minter & Richter offers FREE "Spa" Treatments for your wedding band for life! Contact us for more details!
Keeping the Love Alive: Titanium Wedding Band Care
$When it comes to wedding bands, titanium is one of the strongest and longest-lasting metals around. But like any good marriage, a titanium wedding band will need love and care to keep it shining as bright as the day it was put around your finger. The inevitable surface scratches and scuffs from every day wear may be particularly evident in a new ring, but over time will develop a natural, even satin patina over the entire surface. Your level of activity and wearing habits will dictate how often the band will need a good cleaning and polish. The finish, color and inlay of your titanium wedding band will determine the method you use to clean your band.
Cleaning Titanium:
It is likely that you already have on hand the common household cleaning materials to care for your titanium wedding band. Liquid dish soap can remove any dirt and grease build up, and an ammonia glass cleaner can be used for shine. Wash and dry your ring with a soft towel or lint-free cloth.
Polishing Titanium:
Apply a cream metal polish with a jewelry care cloth to remove minor scratches in your titanium wedding band. Use liquid dish soap to wash away any polish residue. For titanium wedding bands with a satin or brushed finish, use a fine nylon pad (available at most auto care stores) to restore the soft look of the finish. Avoid rubbing any surface with anodized color, as it will take the color right off.
Cleaning Rings with Wood Inlays:
Titanium Wedding bands with wood inlays can easily be cleaned and polished with a little water and vegetable or mineral oil. Applying a good microcrystalline wax polish such as Renaissance Wax will offer added protection to your wood inlay.
Cleaning Anodized Rings:
Skin oil, soap residue and other contaminants can leave a film that can cause anodized color to look dull. Revive your anodized titanium wedding band by soaking it in glass cleaner for 3 minutes, then rinsing it in warm water before allowing it to air dry. Repeat the cleaning process if necessary. Remember never to wash anodized rings with cleaners containing abrasives.
Having you and your spouse’s bands professionally cleaned and polished can be a wonderful anniversary surprise.* Some couples opt to have personalized engraving added to the interiors of their bands on their first anniversary. With a little TLC, your titanium wedding bands will continue to shine, mirroring your commitment to care for each other throughout life.
* Minter & Richter offers FREE "Spa" Treatments for your wedding band for life! Contact us for more details!
Facebook
Twitter
