Independent jewellery retailer Bradley’s Jewellers York has had its summer spirits lifted by a special marriage proposal, which took place outside its front door.
James King proposed to Heather Bittlestone in front of the retailer’s ‘Something Blue‘ floral display in June 2025, having selected the location for its significance to the bride-to-be.
Prior to this moment, Bittlestone had often stopped by Bradley’s Jewellers York to point out her dream engagement ring in the Grade II Listed window display.
King knew this and approached Bradley’s Jewellers York owner Kay Bradley to purchase the 0.80ct solitaire diamond engagement ring in platinum.
He then arranged for a surprise proposal to take place outside the front of the store in the shadow of York Minster, with the Bradley’s Jewellers York team helping to make the moment special.
Kay Bradley says: “Thousands of shoppers and passers-by take photographs of our historic storefront and floral window displays every year, so we’ve always been something of a hotspot of activity on Low Petergate.
“More recently, though, we’ve had people contacting us about using our store as the backdrop for their marriage proposals. James and Heather were the first, but I think this is a sign of things to come.”
The couple will return to Bradley’s Jewellers to discuss matching wedding rings and a suite of bridal jewellery for their wedding day.
Bradley adds: “This was such a special and romantic moment for our whole team, it was wonderful to be part of James and Heather’s big moment.
“People are sentimental about the trips they take to our great city, and I am thrilled that Bradley’s Jewellers York is becoming a destination for proposals.
“With the purchase of an engagement ring, we are happy to arrange the perfect time to ‘pop the question’ and provide all the support a man or woman might need to get down on one knee.”
✨ Want to explore more exclusive insights into the global diamond & jewelry industry?
👉 Visit aidi.org