A ring thing: Advice from real-life couple Ann-Maria and Barry

Thinking of going with a totally unique design for your engagement ring? Not sure where to even begin? Real-life couple Ann-Maria and Barry shared with us their advice and why they loved Gillett’s Jewellers…

THE PROPOSAL

When Barry proposed to his beloved Ann-Maria, his chosen location was the Mt Gravatt lookout, overlooking the night lights of their favourite city, Brisbane. The spot was close to Barry’s heart as he grew up around there – and now it’s a precious part of the couple’s shared history.

“It was a very windy night and we were both suffering a bit from a cold – but we persisted!” recalls Ann-Maria. “Barry spoke from his very big heart and asked me to be his wife, soulmate and best friend forever. Of course I said yes! He then presented me with the most beautiful ring which was a true representation of us, featuring entwined hands supporting each other. I have to admit that by the end, we were both a little teary-eyed with joy!”

THE RING

Why did you go to Gillett’s Jewellers for the engagement ring?
“Barry had a clear vision of what he wanted. The challenge was to find a jeweller he could trust with this vision. He did a lot of research until he came across Don from Gillett’s Jewellers. Don was exceptional at listening and helping Barry to realise his vision.”

What was the best piece of advice they gave you?
“Quality was always part of the vision and finding the perfect diamond was essential,” says Ann-Maria. “Our perfect diamond actually appeared really early on. Don didn’t push at all, so we asked him how common it was to find exactly what you’re looking for so quickly. When he informed Barry that it was rare, that was the best advice we could have been given. And so the journey began!”

What was the most surprising thing you discovered on your quest for the perfect ring?
“The complexity of the types of diamonds available, their quality, and how different cuts bring out different aspects of diamonds.”

What did you end up choosing?
“A princess-cut 1.20 carat diamond in a platinum setting – the setting is an abstract of two entwined hands holding the diamond with loveheart clasps,” says Barry. “I requested 1.20 carats specifically, as it represents Ann-Maria’s birthday on 20 January – albeit in the US format, 1/20!”

Top tip?
“Be creative, design your own engagement ring so that it means something truly special to you… and find the right jeweller to bring your vision to life.”

THE BIG DAY, AT A GLANCE
Date: 29 December, 2016 // Ceremony & reception: Clear Mountain Lodge Spa and Vineyard // Number of guests: 12 // Dress: Designed by Paul Hunt, incorporating lace from the wedding dress of Ann-Maria’s mother / Cake: Marylou’s Custom Cake Creations // Honeymoon: A few extra nights at Clear Mountain Lodge, with a honeymoon somewhere exotic still to come! // Photography: See Photography // Engagement ring: Gillett’s Jewellers

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