Meredith & Jeremy

Q: How did you and your husband meet?

A: My husband, Jeremy, and I met through my older brother, Jason. Jason and Jeremy both served in the United States Marine Corps and toured to Iraq together. Jeremy knew Jason had a ‘little’ sister but was under the impression that I was really little--like 9 years old 'little'. That is, until Jason threw his annual summer bash and, much to my excitement, invited several of his Marine friends. I've always had a thing for men in uniform. ;) Jason gave his friends strict orders NOT to talk to his little sister although that clearly didn’t go as planned. Once there, Jeremy quickly realized I was definitely not 9 years old and the rest is history!

Q: What made you choose this ring to be the one? (Also, what inspired this upgrade?)

A: I got engaged when I was 21 and, at the time, I was convinced I HAD to have a big flashy authentic diamond halo e-ring. So, that’s exactly what I got. Fast forward several years, my overall style and taste changed dramatically. I went from always following the latest fad to wanting a more classy, timeless and minimalist look. I begged for an upgrade. I had my heart set on a delicate timeless yellow gold, 2 carat solitaire. Off my husband went to our jeweler only to find out we were looking at around $15k. My heart sank a little, and because society places such a big emphasis on the need for an authentic diamond, alternative stones were never really an option in my mind.

I had misconstrued thoughts on alternative stones thinking they were cheap and not as special. However, those stigmas quickly changed for me after researching moissanite. You see, moissanite has many similar, and, in some cases, better qualities when compared to a diamond (ie. hardness, radiance, color, etc.) for a fraction of the price. After doing my research and thinking logically about the situation, I opted for moissanite and am SO happy with my decision.

Q: What was your overall experience with Fire & Brilliance like?

A: I had a very positive experience with F&B. I asked tons of questions that were all answered timely and professionally. I then started the process of requesting my dream ring. Before creating the ring, F&B sent digital renderings so I was able to request tweaks as necessary. I was so pleased with how my ring turned out. I would recommend F&B to any couple looking for a gorgeous stone that isn’t going to break the bank.

Q: What are your thoughts on diamond alternative Moissanite?

A: It’s high quality, a fraction of the price and much more radiant. It’s attractive to both parties in the relationship--whether you’re the one wearing it or paying for it. Still having doubts? Let me leave you with one last tidbit… I’ve never been asked “Is that a [real] diamond?” for either my original authentic diamond ring or my moissanite ring. Unless you’re a gemologist, the average person isn’t going to be able to tell the difference between the two.


Q: What would you advise our newly engaged readers as a happily wedded couple?

A: Enjoy your engagement. Soak in all of the wedding planning, but don’t get too hung up on all of the little details that you lose sight of the meaning behind your impending nuptials. Being engaged was one of the most exhilarating phases of my life. I was engaged for 1.5 years before getting married and I honestly thought my wedding day was never going to come, but it came and went in the blink of an eye. I would do anything to relive the engagement, wedding planning, and wedding day all over again.