5 WAYS TO STAND OUT THIS PROPOSAL SEASON

Did you know there is an official proposal season that is backed by research? WeddingWire reported that 40% of engagements happen between Thanksgiving and Valentine’s Day. Facebook data backs this claim, as well as surveys done by Chilli Sauce in the UK. When you consider that most people are awarded their bonuses around Christmas and New Year, and the general over all warm and fuzzy atmosphere that the holidays generate around this time, it makes perfect sense! So how do you make sure you’re the go to store for this love fest? We’ve got some ideas you can try:

• Surprising features
  Your customer is excited about their proposal, and are probably putting a lot of time and effort into this event. Show them you want to put some extra effort in with them by having some special features to perfect their moment. For example: With surprise proposals being all the rage nowadays, try offering a slim engagement ring box to help keep the secret.

• Have Unique and Collaborative options
  If feasible, let your bride or groom have as much input as possible when it comes to creating their true love’s engagement ring. Millennial’s especially love to play a role in the creative process, and feel it gives more meaning and uniqueness to a common tradition. Alternatively, you can offer antique jewelry (even better if there’s a romantic love story to go with it), or engagement rings with alternative gems (did you know 19% of women prefer gemstones over diamonds?).

• Offer fun, non-jewelry options in your Bridal display
  InStore Magazine featured some great ideas, such as selling socks to prevent “cold feet” on the big day. How about having some gift cards for a manicure from a local nail salon available to toss in with the ring purchase? It's a great way to be remembered for having the extra something every customer looks for.

• Give the VIP treatment
  Make your customer feel special any way you can. If you can, set up a separate private room or seating area for viewing and trying on rings, or offer snacks and champagne. Get creative and have fun rolling out the red carpet!

• The Follow-Up
  Ask your customer when the proposal is, or wedding, get their contact info and take notes! Set yourself a reminder to send a card, or even a gift, to congratulate them on their coming nuptials. If you’re tech savvy, you can use social media to congratulate them and impress their friends and family with your thoughtful attention to detail. You can take it a step further and remind yourself to reach out on their wedding day, or 1 year anniversary. *Be sure to confirm that the proposal went as planned!*

Proposals are a special event, and using fun and interesting ways to contribute to that event will make your store the go-to place for newlyweds from all generations. What do you do to make your customer’s experience special? Let us know in the comments!