Love Stories in Gold
Will and Elise: A Custom Toi et Moi Engagement Ring Story
It started on a conference panel in 2022. Two years later, Will worked with our team to design a one-of-a-kind Toi et Moi ring for the woman he knew, almost instantly, was the one.
How It Started
On April 2, 2022, Will and Elise found themselves on the same conference panel. "From the first meeting on the panel to our first date in LA, I felt a connection to Elise that was both familiar and inspiring," Will shared. That connection led to a relationship — and eventually, to designing a ring that was as unique as their story.
Elise had been following Valerie Madison on Instagram and sharing posts with Will. "I love that Valerie Madison was a brand that Elise liked," he said. Supporting a Black-Latina woman jeweler mattered to them both, and Elise's desire for something nontraditional made the choice clear. "I was excited to create something that was unique and made for her."
Designing the Ring
Inspired by Elise's love of multiple stones, unexpected shapes, and her favorite color brown, Will also wanted to weave in a nod to her background in French studies. That led him and our jewelry specialist Amara to the Toi et Moi setting — a French-inspired style meaning "you and me" — featuring two specially sourced natural diamonds in pear and marquise shapes.
In Will's words
"I thought the pear and marquise shapes were unique and still had a timeless look. The best word to describe the process with Amara is collaborative. It was fun to share photos and tell stories of Elise and I's story."
The Custom Process
Will went above and beyond — creating a mood board to help Amara understand Elise's energy and aesthetic. "Instantly, Amara picked up on Elise's vibe and was able to provide the perfect feedback," he said.
Will also admitted he did not expect the process to be so enjoyable. "I did not expect the custom ring process to be so fun. I also loved putting special touches into the ring." The entire design was completed virtually, with just one in-person visit near the end — exactly how our custom process is designed to work, whether you are local to Seattle or building something from across the country.
The finished ring — pear and marquise natural diamonds in a custom Toi et Moi setting
The Proposal
With the ring in hand, Will coordinated with friends and family — including his mother Gayle King and her close friend Oprah Winfrey — to create the perfect proposal moment in sunny California. With loved ones hidden nearby, Will got down on one knee. Elise said yes.
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Congratulations, Will and Elise. We are so honored to be part of your love story.
Ready to design a ring as unique as your story? Our jewelry specialists are here to bring your vision to life — in person in Seattle or virtually from anywhere.