Canyon Falls is one of Chris’s favorite spots to hike. The falls are located just over an hour from Marquette, on the Sturgeon River. Canyon Falls can be accessed from a road side park off of US-41. Chris loves the linear beauty of the limestone canyon, which is reflected in some of his custom designs. 

Once you’ve parked, there is a trail to follow for about 10 minutes. The trail is well traveled, with boardwalks covering large areas of mud. There were still a few muddy spots, so make sure a casual engagement is something that would be acceptable. Hiking boots, or at least tennis shoes, are necessary for this hike.  

There are plenty of great places to get down on one knee on this walk. The trail has many offshoots to get down to flat rocks near the water. There are also a number of benches, if you prefer do propose seated.

Our favorite spot is a flat rock overlooking the canyon, just past the falls. The river creates a beautiful backdrop, and you’re far enough away from the falls that you can hear. There are also great viewpoints of the overlook from the side and across the canyon. If you want a photographer to snap a few candid photos, this spot provides easy hiding places.

• This is a very popular trail. Expect to see people. If you’re thinking of a private proposal, this is not the place for you.
• Depending on where you propose, it can be difficult to hear over the raging falls. If you plan on giving a speech, make sure you are in a spot where you don’t have to yell.
• The rocks get slippery when wet. Be cautious if you head out after a rain shower. 
• Cell phone service is spotty. You will have to wait to get back to the parking lot to make a phone call.

Pearls are an organic gemstone and require special care so they can last a lifetime. While they are stunning, they can also be very fragile to daily wear. As with a lot of other jewelry, Pearl pieces should be taken off when washing hands, doing dishes, or any activity that will subject them to rough wear. 

Because of the nature of the Pearl, they should also be the last thing put on before walking out the door. Perfumes, hairsprays, and lotions can eat away the nacre on the pearl, leaving a lifeless, lackluster piece behind. Pearls should be stored in a soft, cloth pouch, rather than a plastic bag, and shouldn't be store near a direct source of heat, and never in a very dry room, as they require a little moisture to stay looking beautiful.

Finally, if cleaning your pearl is required, lukewarm water and a soft cloth are generally what is recommended. Never use harsh cleaners such as bleach, glass cleaner, or other household chemicals. With proper care, the glowing luster of Pearls is only enriched and intensified over time, making wear just as important as care. 

Wattsson & Wattsson Jewelers will be offering free jewelry cleaning at  Greater Ishpeming-Negaunee Area Chamber of Commerce (GINCC) from 3 - 5 p.m. on the following Mondays:

August 29
September 12
September 26
October 10
October 24
November 7
November 21

Call 906-228-5775 to schedule a custom design consultation or stop in with your jewelry box for your jewelry check up!

Black Rocks, located on Presque Isle, may be the most known place to get engaged in Marquette. Many couples that we work with pop the question while visiting this famous Marquette landmark. It’s easily accessible by car, with a number of great places to get down on one knee. 

To the right of the parking area, you’ll find a beautiful cove. The cliffs of Black Rocks tower over the pebble beach, creating a romantically shaded spot. It’s a great semi private area with a beautiful view of the lake. 

If you head left of the parking area, you’ll walk down a short trail to get out on the rocks. The top of Black Rocks provides a pristine view of Lake Superior. The dark blue tones of the lake are extremely vibrant at this spot, creating a beautiful backdrop. 

Because you’re able to drive to Black Rocks, it’s a very accessible spot to propose. If you want to invite family and friends, it’s a large area. It’s also just around the corner from Sunset Point, where there is a small pavilion. You could have a small celebration immediately following your proposal.   

Things to consider:

• Many people jump off Black Rocks in the summer. If it’s a hot day, this will not be an empty spot surrounded by nature. It will have more of a happy, party vibe. Parking may also be difficult.

• Black flies are known to be thick in this area some times of the year. It’s a good idea to scope it out before you decide if this is a place to propose. Swatting black flies may distract your sweetie from what’s happening. 

• The rocks can be significantly windier than other areas of town. Check the wind forecast before venturing out. 

• The rocks get slippery when wet. Be cautious if you head out after a rain shower. 

Did you get engaged at Black Rocks? Send your photo to store@wandwjewelers.com or use #wandwjewelers and you may be featured on a future blog.