Finding Your Guy on the Inside
Episode Overview
Andy reads Chapter 1 from his new book, "The Inappropriate Guide to Buying An Engagement Ring" - a no-bullshit diamond and ring buying guide for guys who'd rather be anywhere else than a jewelry store. This episode covers the single most important piece of advice for buying an engagement ring without getting screwed over.
Key Takeaways
The Golden Rule: Find a jewelry store where you feel comfortable going. That's it. That's the secret.
Why This Matters:
- Walking into most jewelry stores feels unnatural for guys
- Everything's behind glass, salespeople hover like vultures
- You suddenly don't know what to do with your hands
- It's a special kind of hell for men who've fallen in love
Finding Your Unicorn Jewelry Store:
- Ask friends who actually know you and get your style
- Search for independent jewelers online
- Check their reviews, website, and social media
- Look for their vibe - stuffy/formal vs. laid back/approachable
How to Find Your "Guy on the Inside"
Three Methods:
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Email the store - Tell them you need help. If the response feels too formal or generic, move on.
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Call them - A good jeweler on the phone is like a good first date - there's either chemistry or there isn't.
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Walk in and get down to business - Most terrifying but nothing beats face-to-face. You'll know within 5 minutes if it's your place.
What Your "Guy" Should Do
- Ask questions about her taste and what you want to give her
- Address your budget head-on (it's part of the equation)
- Guide you like that bartender who remembers your drink and steers you toward the good stuff
- Make you feel like a human being, not a walking wallet with commitment issues
Andy's Controversial Advice
When it feels right - buy it. Don't do the "I need to look around" dance that fear makes you think you have to do. When it clicks, it clicks. Pull the trigger and be done with it.
Why this works:
- Saves weeks of second-guessing
- Prevents comparing minute details that won't matter in 5 years
- You don't need to become a diamond expert - you need someone you trust who does this for a living
The Bottom Line
Find a jewelry store where you don't feel like you're standing there with your zipper open (but check that before you go in, just to be safe). Connect with someone who speaks your language, not "diamond-ese." When it feels right, trust your gut and pull the trigger.
About the Book
"The Inappropriate Guide to Buying An Engagement Ring" is available on Amazon. Andy is creating an audio version while keeping the podcast going by reading chapters on the show.
Warning: Contains raw language, unfiltered advice, and the kind of talk you'd get from your most honest friend after a few drinks.
Next Episode
Chapter 2 coming soon - more straight talk and war stories from the jewelry trenches.
Connect with Buy Like A Guy:
- Available wherever you get your podcasts
- Book available on Amazon
Show notes compiled from episode transcript