I had a plan to propose, but then I decided to propose at her lowest point. She had the flu and on her period at the same time and feeling like ****. So I decided to do it then.
As far as her engagement ring was concerned. I told her straight up, "I want you to design your engagement ring.". We went to a "mom and pop" jewelry store where she designed exactly what she wanted, and it came out really dope. If you have the ability to get it designed, DO IT. LESS STRESS. DO NOT GO TO JARED'S, ZALES, KAY, ect. They all have the same **** and piss poor quality. She got a 14k yellow gold setting ($800) and 3/4 ct. VS1 near colorless diamond and 1/4 ct. for a bezel for $3,000 (Reason: There is not middle-man with mom and pop places). At the other stores listed, you wont get that quality for the price. On top of it, the appraised it for around 7k for insurance purposes.
Our wedding is in Dec. probably looking at 30k for around 60 people. Venue and food are the biggest.