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Exercise, quality time with loved ones, work-life balance, practicing gratitude, free time and creativity may all be common answers to the query of how to be happy. But what are some of the secrets to happiness?
Recently, personal finance website WalletHub tried to find an answer to that question. It turns out, the key to happiness may have something to do with where you live.
Beyond the United States’ current ranking as the 16th happiest nation in the world according to the World Happiness Report, certain U.S. cities have higher average happiness levels than others. Amongst an analysis of more than 180 of the largest U.S. cities, these are the happiest, according to WalletHub.
How were the happiest U.S. cities determined?
In order to figure out the happiest cities, WalletHub analyzed 182 of the largest U.S. cities utilizing three central dimensions: emotional and physical well-being, income and employment, and community and environment.
Then, each of these dimensions was measured using a range of 30 relevant metrics of happiness. For example, for the category of emotional and physical well-being, researchers took measurements of life satisfaction, life expectancy, food insecurity and others into account.
Second, for the income and employment dimension, measurements of job satisfaction, job security, unemployment rates, commute time and more were taken into consideration. The dimension of community and environment took factors like average leisure time spent per day, ideal weather and rankings of “Most Caring Cities” into account.
What are the happiest U.S. cities?
California truly took the trophy as the state to offer some of the happiest cities throughout America. Cities like Fremont, San Jose and San Francisco all made it into the top five happiest U.S. cities.
These are the official findings:
- Fremont, California
- San Jose, California
- Madison, Wisconsin
- Overland Park, Kansas
- San Francisco, California
- Irvine, California
- Columbia, Maryland
- Sioux Falls, South Dakota
- South Burlington, Vermont
- Burlington, Vermont
- Seattle, Washington
- Bismarck, North Dakota
- Oakland, California
- Huntington Beach, California
- San Diego, California
- Scottsdale, Arizona
- Minneapolis, Minnesota
- Yonkers, New York
- Aurora, Illinois
- Fargo, North Dakota
What factors correlate to happiness levels?
Ultimately, WalletHub’s findings don’t just reveal the happiest American cities. They also found that factors like sleep, sports participation, income growth, and separation and divorce rates may have something to do with happiness levels.
Notably, South Burlington, Vermont; Madison, Wisconsin; Burlington, Vermont; and Seattle, Washington are four of the five cities with the highest adequate sleep levels. They also happen to be in the top 11 happiest cities in the United States.
Additionally, the unhappiest city on the list—Detroit, Michigan—also had the lowest adequate-sleep rate of the 182 cities analyzed. Furthermore, cities like Cleveland, Ohio; Montgomery, Alabama; and Augusta, Georgia remain in the bottom seven happiest cities. They also make it onto the list of the top five cities with the lowest sleep rates in America.
Thus, getting the recommended seven to eight hours of shut-eye may just make a whole lot of difference no matter where you live.
Sources
- WalletHub: “2023’s Happiest Cities in America”
Exercise, quality time with loved ones, work-life balance, practicing gratitude, free time and creativity may all be common answers to the query of how to be happy. But what are some of the secrets to happiness?
Recently, personal finance website WalletHub tried to find an answer to that question. It turns out, the key to happiness may have something to do with where you live.
Beyond the United States’ current ranking as the 16th happiest nation in the world according to the World Happiness Report, certain U.S. cities have higher average happiness levels than others. Amongst an analysis of more than 180 of the largest U.S. cities, these are the happiest, according to WalletHub.
How were the happiest U.S. cities determined?
In order to figure out the happiest cities, WalletHub analyzed 182 of the largest U.S. cities utilizing three central dimensions: emotional and physical well-being, income and employment, and community and environment.
Then, each of these dimensions was measured using a range of 30 relevant metrics of happiness. For example, for the category of emotional and physical well-being, researchers took measurements of life satisfaction, life expectancy, food insecurity and others into account.
Second, for the income and employment dimension, measurements of job satisfaction, job security, unemployment rates, commute time and more were taken into consideration. The dimension of community and environment took factors like average leisure time spent per day, ideal weather and rankings of “Most Caring Cities” into account.
What are the happiest U.S. cities?
California truly took the trophy as the state to offer some of the happiest cities throughout America. Cities like Fremont, San Jose and San Francisco all made it into the top five happiest U.S. cities.
These are the official findings:
- Fremont, California
- San Jose, California
- Madison, Wisconsin
- Overland Park, Kansas
- San Francisco, California
- Irvine, California
- Columbia, Maryland
- Sioux Falls, South Dakota
- South Burlington, Vermont
- Burlington, Vermont
- Seattle, Washington
- Bismarck, North Dakota
- Oakland, California
- Huntington Beach, California
- San Diego, California
- Scottsdale, Arizona
- Minneapolis, Minnesota
- Yonkers, New York
- Aurora, Illinois
- Fargo, North Dakota
What factors correlate to happiness levels?
Ultimately, WalletHub’s findings don’t just reveal the happiest American cities. They also found that factors like sleep, sports participation, income growth, and separation and divorce rates may have something to do with happiness levels.
Notably, South Burlington, Vermont; Madison, Wisconsin; Burlington, Vermont; and Seattle, Washington are four of the five cities with the highest adequate sleep levels. They also happen to be in the top 11 happiest cities in the United States.
Additionally, the unhappiest city on the list—Detroit, Michigan—also had the lowest adequate-sleep rate of the 182 cities analyzed. Furthermore, cities like Cleveland, Ohio; Montgomery, Alabama; and Augusta, Georgia remain in the bottom seven happiest cities. They also make it onto the list of the top five cities with the lowest sleep rates in America.
Thus, getting the recommended seven to eight hours of shut-eye may just make a whole lot of difference no matter where you live.
Sources
- WalletHub: “2023’s Happiest Cities in America”
If there’s anything the pandemic taught us, it’s the importance of keeping your hands clean. It’s a given that you should lather up a few times a day to prevent disease and boost hygiene. But if you’re constantly on the go or in need of hydration due to overusing hand sanitizer gels, allow me to introduce Touchland hand sanitizer.
What is Touchland hand sanitizer?
Perhaps you’ve seen the funky bottle on an influencer’s social media or in the beauty section of the local drugstore. At first glance, the “hand sanitizer” label goes relatively unnoticed. That’s because the one-ounce spritzer is designed to look more like perfume—complete with varying colors and scents—than sanitizer.
Touchland introduced the concept in 2019 and it skyrocketed to popularity during a time when everyone needed to stock up on antibacterial items. Not only is it compact and lightweight, but it’s also artfully scented and innovative in design. The sanitizer swaps a traditional pump for a spray function.
Let’s just say the hand sanitizers from Touchland are small but mighty. Each bottle contains one ounce of sanitizing liquid with 70% alcohol content by volume. Its main ingredients protect your skin without drying it out. Despite the spray’s ability to banish bacteria, it won’t leave your hands sticky and smelly. Aloe vera and lemon oil in the formula provide a strong moisturizing effect, while the rest of the ingredients knock out 99.9% of germs.
Pros
- Appealing and innovative scents
- Moisturizing formula soothes dry skin
- 13 scent options
- Comes in packs of one, three or five
- 1,300 ratings and 4.7 stars out of 5 on Amazon
Cons
- More pricey than most hand sanitizers
- The fruity smells may be too potent for some scent-sensitive users
- One spritz isn’t enough to sanitize, expect three to five per use
Why is Touchland’s hand sanitizer so popular?
The Touchland Power Mist dispenses in satisfying spritzes instead of the goopy, slippery mess synonymous with traditional pump sanitizers. There’s also little to no risk of a spill in your bag given its small size. Each bottle is good for 500 sprays, though some reviewers point out that it takes about three to five spritzes to coat your hands.
When you need that freshly-washed-hands feeling, just spray some product on your hands and work it in. The fine mist feels more like a liquid than a gel. Contrary to traditional sanitizers that leave behind a potent chemical flavor, Touchland’s Power Mists won’t leave that icky alcohol scent on your hands.
Plus, these hand sanitizers come in a plethora of fresh scents to match your vibe. From Pure Lavender—with notes of eucalyptus and vanilla—to Rainwater, complete with Lily of the Valley and cedarwood, there are 13 scents total to choose from. The formula is also vegan and free of gluten, parabens, sulfates, silicones and mineral oils.
What Amazon users have to say
Most people wouldn’t have given hand sanitizer much thought a few years ago. But these days, let your hand sanitizer be the prettiest thing in your bag. Here’s why verified Amazon reviewers love the Touchland Power Mists.
Chloe says, “The bottles last so long, and the scents are nothing less than dreamy. The best part is you can share it without having kids and friends rub their dirty hands all over it. It’s so convenient and also aesthetically pleasing. I wish I could give this a million stars.”
Amarie was “surprised” to like them as much as she did, especially after being skeptical of the price and small size. However, she now keeps three at work and around the house. She writes, “I hate to admit it but I will definitely purchase this again, no matter the price.”
Where to buy Touchland hand sanitizer
On Amazon, you can buy the Touchland Power Mists in packs of five or shop your favorite individual scents at Ban.do, Ulta or straight from Touchland’s website, where you can save 10% on your first order. But take it from us (and more than a thousand five-star ratings), it’ll be tough to pick just one.
Stop hunting for the best products and deals—get our expert scoop on secret sales and discounts, gift ideas for everyone and can’t-miss products. Sign up for the Stuff We Love newsletter.
Waking up with a ring of last night’s eye makeup or leftover foundation isn’t just frustrating, it’s bad for your skin. You don’t have to be a frequent makeup wearer either. Having an everyday skin care routine is essential to preventing breakouts and wrinkles. The convenience of face wipes is always tempting, but using a cleansing balm is by far the better choice—and Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm is among the best.
Clean It Zero has over 10,000 ratings and a nearly-perfect 4.7-star average on Amazon—here’s why shoppers say it’s become a staple in their skin care routine.
What is Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm?
This Korean cleansing balm differs from a traditional makeup remover or face wash in texture and function. Because it acts as a cleanser and moisturizer in one, your skin gets a squeaky-clean finish without stripping it of its natural moisture. Sort of gives new meaning to a double cleanse, doesn’t it?
Those new to the world of Korean skin care will find that the industry champions the philosophy of using ingredients that are inspired by nature. The cleansing balm, high in Vitamins C and E, uses active botanicals and hot spring water to naturally balance your complexion. You won’t find harmful parabens or sulfates in the formula, and Banila ditched the alcohol and artificial coloring, too.
Many of the balm’s enthusiasts have noted that the 100ml container lasts up to six months. That size also makes the balm a shoo-in for your toiletry bag or plane-approved carry-on luggage.
Perhaps best of all, though, is that the cleansing balm is much more eco-friendly than traditional, disposable makeup wipes. The environment will thank you for making the switch—and so will your skin.
Pros
- Removes stubborn waterproof makeup
- Made with all skin types in mind, including sensitive skin
- Doesn’t leave an oily residue
- The hypoallergenic formula is free of parabens, sulfates, phthalates and mineral oil
- Replaces wasteful makeup wipes
- Has over 8,000 five-star ratings and a 4.7-star average on Amazon
Cons
- Some reviewers say the balm has a potent artificial smell
- The oily base might clog pores or cause breakouts in some users
- Some users experienced eye irritation, so be aware when using to remove eye makeup
How to use Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm
Whether you’re a makeup minimalist or an FX artist, the balm promises to leave your skin refreshed and rejuvenated. A fresh face can be achieved in a few simple steps, and you can follow it up with the rest of your skin care routine.
Using the included spatula, measure a generous amount of balm into your palm. If your skin tends to disagree with oil-based products, start with a lighter amount of product. Gently massage the substance onto dry skin to break down the top layers of makeup, sunscreen and dirt.
In a few seconds, the balm will transform into an oil. Add a bit of water to emulsify the substance and dissolve the last traces of makeup or dirt. When the balm has worked its magic, rinse with lukewarm water or wipe with a clean towel.
According to Banila, the balm is safe to use near eyes and lips, two of the most sensitive facial areas. However, some users warn against rubbing the product too harshly on the eyes to avoid irritation.
The best Amazon user reviews
Here’s what real Amazon reviewers had to say, so any suspicions can melt away as easily as your makeup.
Jen, a reviewer with “dry, mature skin,” also notes that the balm has more benefits than just a clean face. She writes that the balm is “a great travel cleanser—a solid that won’t leak and doesn’t take up a lot of room.”
Even after daily use, TJ says one jar lasted them over six months. “A small amount of product makes a very big difference” on even the toughest waterproof mascaras, they write.
Where to buy Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm
Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm is available on Amazon for $17, as well as Ulta, Stylevana, Soko Glam and straight from Banila’s site at $19. If you find yourself loving it—and we’re sure you will—Banila also offers nourishing, pore clarifying and purifying balms.
Stop hunting for the best products and deals—get our expert scoop on secret sales and discounts, gift ideas for everyone and can’t-miss products. Sign up for the Stuff We Love newsletter.
Waking up with a ring of last night’s eye makeup or leftover foundation isn’t just frustrating, it’s bad for your skin. You don’t have to be a frequent makeup wearer either. Having an everyday skin care routine is essential to preventing breakouts and wrinkles. The convenience of face wipes is always tempting, but using a cleansing balm is by far the better choice—and Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm is among the best.
Clean It Zero has over 10,000 ratings and a nearly-perfect 4.7-star average on Amazon—here’s why shoppers say it’s become a staple in their skin care routine.
What is Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm?
This Korean cleansing balm differs from a traditional makeup remover or face wash in texture and function. Because it acts as a cleanser and moisturizer in one, your skin gets a squeaky-clean finish without stripping it of its natural moisture. Sort of gives new meaning to a double cleanse, doesn’t it?
Those new to the world of Korean skin care will find that the industry champions the philosophy of using ingredients that are inspired by nature. The cleansing balm, high in Vitamins C and E, uses active botanicals and hot spring water to naturally balance your complexion. You won’t find harmful parabens or sulfates in the formula, and Banila ditched the alcohol and artificial coloring, too.
Many of the balm’s enthusiasts have noted that the 100ml container lasts up to six months. That size also makes the balm a shoo-in for your toiletry bag or plane-approved carry-on luggage.
Perhaps best of all, though, is that the cleansing balm is much more eco-friendly than traditional, disposable makeup wipes. The environment will thank you for making the switch—and so will your skin.
Pros
- Removes stubborn waterproof makeup
- Made with all skin types in mind, including sensitive skin
- Doesn’t leave an oily residue
- The hypoallergenic formula is free of parabens, sulfates, phthalates and mineral oil
- Replaces wasteful makeup wipes
- Has over 8,000 five-star ratings and a 4.7-star average on Amazon
Cons
- Some reviewers say the balm has a potent artificial smell
- The oily base might clog pores or cause breakouts in some users
- Some users experienced eye irritation, so be aware when using to remove eye makeup
How to use Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm
Whether you’re a makeup minimalist or an FX artist, the balm promises to leave your skin refreshed and rejuvenated. A fresh face can be achieved in a few simple steps, and you can follow it up with the rest of your skin care routine.
Using the included spatula, measure a generous amount of balm into your palm. If your skin tends to disagree with oil-based products, start with a lighter amount of product. Gently massage the substance onto dry skin to break down the top layers of makeup, sunscreen and dirt.
In a few seconds, the balm will transform into an oil. Add a bit of water to emulsify the substance and dissolve the last traces of makeup or dirt. When the balm has worked its magic, rinse with lukewarm water or wipe with a clean towel.
According to Banila, the balm is safe to use near eyes and lips, two of the most sensitive facial areas. However, some users warn against rubbing the product too harshly on the eyes to avoid irritation.
The best Amazon user reviews
Here’s what real Amazon reviewers had to say, so any suspicions can melt away as easily as your makeup.
Jen, a reviewer with “dry, mature skin,” also notes that the balm has more benefits than just a clean face. She writes that the balm is “a great travel cleanser—a solid that won’t leak and doesn’t take up a lot of room.”
Even after daily use, TJ says one jar lasted them over six months. “A small amount of product makes a very big difference” on even the toughest waterproof mascaras, they write.
Where to buy Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm
Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm is available on Amazon for $17, as well as Ulta, Stylevana, Soko Glam and straight from Banila’s site at $19. If you find yourself loving it—and we’re sure you will—Banila also offers nourishing, pore clarifying and purifying balms.
Stop hunting for the best products and deals—get our expert scoop on secret sales and discounts, gift ideas for everyone and can’t-miss products. Sign up for the Stuff We Love newsletter.
Waking up with a ring of last night’s eye makeup or leftover foundation isn’t just frustrating, it’s bad for your skin. You don’t have to be a frequent makeup wearer either. Having an everyday skin care routine is essential to preventing breakouts and wrinkles. The convenience of face wipes is always tempting, but using a cleansing balm is by far the better choice—and Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm is among the best.
Clean It Zero has over 10,000 ratings and a nearly-perfect 4.7-star average on Amazon—here’s why shoppers say it’s become a staple in their skin care routine.
What is Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm?
This Korean cleansing balm differs from a traditional makeup remover or face wash in texture and function. Because it acts as a cleanser and moisturizer in one, your skin gets a squeaky-clean finish without stripping it of its natural moisture. Sort of gives new meaning to a double cleanse, doesn’t it?
Those new to the world of Korean skin care will find that the industry champions the philosophy of using ingredients that are inspired by nature. The cleansing balm, high in Vitamins C and E, uses active botanicals and hot spring water to naturally balance your complexion. You won’t find harmful parabens or sulfates in the formula, and Banila ditched the alcohol and artificial coloring, too.
Many of the balm’s enthusiasts have noted that the 100ml container lasts up to six months. That size also makes the balm a shoo-in for your toiletry bag or plane-approved carry-on luggage.
Perhaps best of all, though, is that the cleansing balm is much more eco-friendly than traditional, disposable makeup wipes. The environment will thank you for making the switch—and so will your skin.
Pros
- Removes stubborn waterproof makeup
- Made with all skin types in mind, including sensitive skin
- Doesn’t leave an oily residue
- The hypoallergenic formula is free of parabens, sulfates, phthalates and mineral oil
- Replaces wasteful makeup wipes
- Has over 8,000 five-star ratings and a 4.7-star average on Amazon
Cons
- Some reviewers say the balm has a potent artificial smell
- The oily base might clog pores or cause breakouts in some users
- Some users experienced eye irritation, so be aware when using to remove eye makeup
How to use Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm
Whether you’re a makeup minimalist or an FX artist, the balm promises to leave your skin refreshed and rejuvenated. A fresh face can be achieved in a few simple steps, and you can follow it up with the rest of your skin care routine.
Using the included spatula, measure a generous amount of balm into your palm. If your skin tends to disagree with oil-based products, start with a lighter amount of product. Gently massage the substance onto dry skin to break down the top layers of makeup, sunscreen and dirt.
In a few seconds, the balm will transform into an oil. Add a bit of water to emulsify the substance and dissolve the last traces of makeup or dirt. When the balm has worked its magic, rinse with lukewarm water or wipe with a clean towel.
According to Banila, the balm is safe to use near eyes and lips, two of the most sensitive facial areas. However, some users warn against rubbing the product too harshly on the eyes to avoid irritation.
The best Amazon user reviews
Here’s what real Amazon reviewers had to say, so any suspicions can melt away as easily as your makeup.
Jen, a reviewer with “dry, mature skin,” also notes that the balm has more benefits than just a clean face. She writes that the balm is “a great travel cleanser—a solid that won’t leak and doesn’t take up a lot of room.”
Even after daily use, TJ says one jar lasted them over six months. “A small amount of product makes a very big difference” on even the toughest waterproof mascaras, they write.
Where to buy Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm
Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm is available on Amazon for $17, as well as Ulta, Stylevana, Soko Glam and straight from Banila’s site at $19. If you find yourself loving it—and we’re sure you will—Banila also offers nourishing, pore clarifying and purifying balms.
Stop hunting for the best products and deals—get our expert scoop on secret sales and discounts, gift ideas for everyone and can’t-miss products. Sign up for the Stuff We Love newsletter.
Will you marry me? People dream of the moment they get engaged, often citing it as one of the happiest days of their lives. And while, sure, you can just pop the question, doing it with an engagement ring is a powerful symbol of your love and commitment. Of course, you want something with a wow factor that your significant other will love and wear every day—but you also don’t want this one purchase to bankrupt you. So, while you’re looking at sparkly little works of art and learning all about cuts, color and clarity, your other big question will be how much to spend on an engagement ring.
The short answer? Perhaps not as much as you think. “It is a token of your love, but it’s as much about the effort you put into it, how well it fits the style of your partner and the memories as it is about the cost,” says Carrie Speed, an engagement ring specialist who co-owns Jewelfire Diamonds, a chain of jewelry stores in Colorado, with her husband, Grant.
“If I could bust two big myths about buying engagement and wedding rings, it would be the idea that you have to spend a lot to show your love and because it’s an ‘investment piece’ for your future,” adds Grant Speed, a gemologist. “Neither of these are true, and thinking this way can get you into financial hot water quickly.” Recognizing that you’re shopping mainly for sentimental value and taste can actually make the process a lot more free, fun and, ultimately, more affordable.
Since this may be one of the biggest single purchases you ever make, it’s important to know how much to spend on an engagement ring, as well as how to make a budget to finance it and whether or not to insure it. We talked to a variety of experts to gather all the info you need before you take the plunge and then start thinking about other engagement details, like whether you should propose before or after dinner and which knee you should propose on. Before you know it, you just may have a new fiancé … or is it fiancée? (Don’t worry, we have the answer to that too!)
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How much should you spend on an engagement ring?
The answer is as much practical as it is romantic: Spend only how much you can afford without going into long-term debt. “There just isn’t a concrete rule for what you should spend on an engagement ring anymore,” says LaDonna Cook, a certified financial counselor with GreenPath Financial Wellness, a nonprofit debt-counseling company. “In the past, you may have heard something like ‘spend at least two or three months’ salary,’ but that is more marketing than real advice. It does not consider stagnation of wages, increases in prices, new trends of student-loan debt and more.”
To figure out exactly what you can afford and how much to spend on an engagement ring, Cook recommends taking a holistic look at your financial situation. This includes:
- Your current and predicted income, including your average monthly income
- Your regular bills, like rent, utilities, food and medical care
- Your current credit card debt
- Your longer-term debt, like car, student and home loans
- Where you live (prices for rings vary widely around the country)
- How much you have in savings
- Large future expenses
- Your partner’s opinions, as this will likely become a joint debt
Sound overwhelming? Before you pick the perfect sparkler to slide onto your beloved’s ring finger, check out this simple engagement ring calculator, which takes into account other factors like your future goals and current lifestyle. “The important thing to remember when deciding how much to spend on an engagement ring is that it’s just one part of your life together as a couple,” says Grant Speed, adding that you’ll have several large major expenses in the near future that will impact you far more than the ring—think: the wedding, honeymoon, purchasing a home and/or children.
You should also avoid buying an engagement or wedding ring as an investment piece. “In the past, people saw jewelry as an important part of their household wealth,” explains Grant. “But the truth is, it is a depreciating asset, and you’ll never be able to sell your ring for what you bought it for.”
How much does the average engagement ring cost?
As of this writing, a one-carat diamond engagement ring—the most commonly sought-after style—typically costs around $5,500. But this can vary widely based on the source of the stone, cut, clarity, setting, whether the ring is custom-made or off the shelf, and the jeweler, says Grant Speed.
This tracks with what people are actually spending. According to a 2022 study from Credit Donkey, most couples reported wanting to spend between $1,000 and $5,000, though the average cost of an engagement ring was around $5,225. (This is actually down from 2019, when the average rang in at a whopping $7,750.) The survey also revealed that 9% spent more than $10,000 on an engagement ring in 2022.
Stunning engagement rings
Should you insure an engagement ring?
Yes, you should always insure your engagement ring, wedding rings and any other pieces of fine jewelry, says Grant Speed.
The first step is getting an independent appraisal of your ring, and contrary to popular belief, you don’t want it to appraise for a surprisingly high number. “People think that means they got a great deal, but in reality it means that you’ll pay more for insurance premiums and yet you won’t make that much money back if you ever try to sell it because the jeweler likely sold it to you at the market value,” explains Carrie Speed.
Once you have it appropriately appraised, you will generally need to purchase a separate rider for the ring on another insurance policy, like your homeowners insurance. “People often assume their homeowners insurance automatically covers their rings, but this usually isn’t the case,” explains Grant, adding that you can add a ring rider to nearly any type of insurance policy, including renters insurance and car insurance.
Speak to your insurance agent for more information about what your policy covers and any changes you would need to make to insure your rings.
How can you save money on an engagement ring?
Pay cash or get a personal loan
The number one mistake people make when buying an engagement ring is using the store financing, says Grant Speed. Big-box jewelry stores will heavily push their own in-house finance options, which come with very high interest rates. They often make more money on the financing than the ring itself. The solution is to either pay in cash or get a personal loan through your own bank before shopping, he says.
Use credit cards wisely
Cook doesn’t generally advise making large purchases like engagement rings on a credit card because they have very high interest rates, but they can save you money if you’re smart about it. There are two things to look for: cards that offer airline miles, money back or points that could be used toward your honeymoon; or cards that insure the ring through the credit card company. “Just make sure you have a plan to pay it off immediately,” she adds.
Make the proposal the surprise, not the ring
This is a ring your beloved will (hopefully) wear the rest of their lives, so one of the top etiquette rules of getting engaged is to make sure it’s something they really love—which usually means shopping with them before the proposal, at least to get an idea of what they like, says Donnie Brown, a celebrity wedding planner from the Style Network series Whose Wedding Is It Anyway? and the founder of Donnie Brown Weddings and Events in Dallas. If you surprise him or her with a ring they don’t love, they may feel pressured to accept it anyway because they want to say yes to the proposal.
Be flexible about stone options
These days, lab-created diamonds are about 30% cheaper than those mined from the earth, and they’re generally indistinguishable from traditional diamonds, even to trained gemologists. “Plus, they’re more ethical, sustainably sourced and better for the environment,” says Carrie Speed. She adds that many couples now are looking at more unique options like moissanite, colored gems, sapphires and pearls—although you should talk to your jeweler about the durability of those stones and how to set them so they last. “It’s still true that nothing is as hard as a diamond,” she notes.
Research the price of metal
Metal prices, like everything else, have skyrocketed over the past few years, but they do go up and down with the market. Do your research and look for a good time to buy the metal you’re interested in or consider a metal that is more affordable at that time. For instance, while you may really want platinum or titanium, you can often get the same look for less by using a different metal, like white gold, says Carrie Speed. You can also save money by choosing a premade band style rather than making it custom.
Another pro tip: Don’t limit your search to things named “engagement” rings—many cocktail rings work just as beautifully. You should also know the times of the year when it’s cheaper to buy certain items, including fine jewelry. This can save you a bundle.
Talk to your soon-to-be husband or wife
Open and honest communication is Cook’s top tip. “Financial issues are one of the top things couples fight about and can really affect the relationship. Use this as an opportunity to practice talking about money,” she says, adding that you should do this even if you want the ring itself to be a surprise. “Discussing how much you should pay for an engagement ring could be one of your first open conversations about money and an important step toward your and your partner’s future financial success.”
Look at heirlooms, not pawn shops
Do you have a ring that’s been in the family for generations? These make beautiful and sentimental engagement rings, says Cook. You can even take the existing stone and put it in a new setting to freshen it up. Some jewelers offer secondhand rings at a lower price as well. Avoid buying secondhand from pawn shops, though, as you can’t know what you’re really getting, says Grant Speed.
Once you’ve decided how much to spend on an engagement ring and have found “the one,” it’s time to move on to other pre-wedding plans—including figuring out the best wedding registries and which wedding traditions you should incorporate into your big day.
Sources:
- Carrie and Grant Speed, engagement-ring specialists and co-owners of Jewelfire Diamonds
- LaDonna Cook, certified financial counselor with GreenPath Financial Wellness
- Donnie Brown, celebrity wedding planner from the Style Network series Whose Wedding Is It Anyway? and founder of Donnie Brown Weddings and Events in Dallas
- Credit Donkey: “Study: Average Engagement Ring Cost”
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I have a bad habit, and it has taken over my downtime. I do it in between carpools. While I wait for the pasta water to boil. As I fold my family’s laundry—sometimes even while I brush my teeth. I mindlessly, effortlessly scroll through Instagram. Of course, I have many busy, productive and attentive hours when I am not on social media, but it happens to be that during the most mundane moments of my existence, I bombard my brain with images of other people trying to be happy.
I’m not naive enough to be tricked into thinking their frame-worthy happiness is always genuine. I know it’s an illusion, at least in part. Still, I can’t help but feel the pressure to learn how to be happy too. And not just happy but—if the images have taught me anything—happier than most. To be the happiest.
As I scroll, I read captions packed with happiness quotes or lyrics from happy songs. I see smiling friends at dinner, couples kissing, kids pink-cheeked from the snow or sun. They are happy to be at the best restaurant in town. Happy to be in the most perfect relationship, and happy to be on an exotic vacation (naturally, in one of the happiest countries in the world).
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The business of trying to be happy
It turns out, the quest for happiness is not unlike the quest for youth. Explorers of both often have something to sell you. There are people hawking products and potions, exercises and diets, all of which promise to do the trick: Learn how to meditate. Focus on positive thinking. Eliminate sugar. Walk 10,000 steps a day. Connect with nature. Eat mood-boosting foods. Take the right vitamins and supplements.
And look, these are smart, science-backed ideas if you’re trying to be happy. But focusing on every single one of them could have the opposite effect. When we bombard our brains with dozens of different ways to achieve happiness, it can seem like a chore instead of the blissful endgame we’re promised. In fact, the quest for happiness can be downright joyless!
Besides, these happiness hacks aren’t for everyone. I’ve tried some meditation apps, and they only succeed in stressing me out—some guy’s slow, low voice telling me to relax? My heart starts racing just thinking about it.
Eliminate sugar? When I was little, I used to jump onto the counter, reach high onto the shelf and sneak spoonfuls from the sugar bowl. Now that I’m an adult, you’ll find sour gummies and Red Vines stashed in the armrest of my car.
As for those 10,000 steps a day? Well, that’s easy. I walk up the stairs to make the beds. Down the stairs to unload the dishwasher. Around the block to walk the dog. By the end of the day, the exercise circle on my Apple Watch is complete. But am I?
Measuring happiness
Don’t get me wrong. I’m happy!
My family and I are fortunate enough to go on exotic trips, taking photos in front of volcanoes from Japan to Costa Rica and smiling atop snow-capped mountains, our ski poles outstretched. We go to the hottest restaurants. We attend parties in our community. I post kissing photos too!
But am I the happiest? Am I as happy as you are in your Instagram photos?
I was happy the other day when I found wayward chewy SweeTarts at the bottom of my carry-on luggage. I was craving candy, and there it was: lintless, dustless and in remarkable condition considering it made the harrowing trip from New York City to San Francisco and back. Hiding in the dark, unkempt corner of my bag, it was the perfect discovery at the perfect time.
A sly smile. A moment of joy. Chew, chew, swallow—gone. It was so fleeting, I didn’t even have time to post about it. Eternal happiness can be hard to achieve, am I right?
Happy with contentment
Happiness is a series of peaks and valleys, and if I’m always chasing it, I’ll never get it in my grasp. The vacation ends (and laundry begins). That kiss can’t last forever. The candy disappears. The things that spark happiness at home, at work—anywhere, really—are fleeting.
With happiness, it seems that there is always the search for more or for better: the perfect shot at the best angle, or just one more “like.” For me, that doesn’t seem sustainable.
Contentment is different. It’s a feeling within ourselves that no one can take away, writes Daniel Cordero, PhD, founder and CEO of the Contentment Foundation, in the University of California, Berkeley’s Greater Good Magazine. It’s listening to my sixth- and eighth-grader bicker at the dinner table and looking past their arguing to recognize that we are fortunate to all be together.
I see contentment as a consistent feeling. And I crave consistency, maybe even more than sugar. So instead of always trying to be happy, I’ve decided that I’m happiest with feeling content.
I realized this as I was lying in bed a few nights ago. To my right, my husband snuggled close to me, exhausted from a whirlwind business trip to London. The sheets were cool, but his body was warm. To my left, my golden retriever stretched out against the curve of my body, her back flush against mine.
Scrunched in the middle, I was even more than happy. I was content. I settled in, aware that no photo could document this feeling, no sun-soaked vacation could warm my insides this much and no daily step count would lead me to this destination. I smiled. I was the happiest.
Source:
- Greater Good Magazine: “What If You Pursued Contentment Rather Than Happiness?”
