#SHESAIDYES: LILY & GERARD

Lily was first drawn to Cassandra Mamone's designs through social media. So, when the time came for Gerard to choose the perfect engagement ring, the couple knew exactly where to go. They booked a consultation with Cassandra, and Gerard surprised Lily with a romantic beach proposal, presenting her with the Oval Elegance ring in 18ct yellow gold. Read more about their intimate proposal below...

HOW DID YOU BOTH MEET?

Gerard and I first met through a dating site in August 2021. Our first date was amazing, lasting until the last drinks were called at a bar in Brisbane. We went on a few more dates, but then life got busy—I was finishing my nursing degree, and he had just started a new job. We eventually went our separate ways but stayed in touch.

Everything changed after Gerard experienced a life-changing accident at the end of 2021, which left him in the hospital for over two months as he began recovering from a traumatic brain injury. I visited him, wanting to be there as a friend during such a challenging time. Once he was back on his feet, Gerard invited me out for a nice dinner to thank me for my support.

WHAT DREW YOU TO CASSANDRA MAMONE FOR THE DESIGN OF YOUR PIECE?

I first discovered Cassandra through social media, and I was immediately drawn to her authenticity and passion for designing jewelry. It quickly became clear that she was the perfect person to guide us on the journey of creating the ideal engagement ring.

SHARE WITH US YOUR ENGAGEMENT STORY.

After finishing my final nursing placement, we decided to escape for the weekend to celebrate and relax. We booked a beautiful apartment overlooking the ocean, where we enjoyed watching whales and stunning sunrises.

On our first afternoon, Gerard insisted we take a walk to the beach. When we arrived, it was windy and wavy. He suggested we explore the rocks to find a quieter spot. Eventually, we found a rock just big enough for both of us to sit on, and we shared a lovely moment together.

As the waves began to roll in, we figured it was best to head back to shore. Gerard led us to the only patch of grass nearby, where we embraced for a moment. Then he said, "I just gotta do this." Before I knew it, he was down on one knee, asking me to marry him. I was so overwhelmed with emotion that I struggled to see the ring at first, but it was truly magical.

Afterward, we made our way back through the bush to the footpath, as the tide made it tricky to return the way we came. We celebrated back at the apartment with champagne and a cheese board, all while a beautiful rainbow arched over the ocean.

TELL US ALL ABOUT THE DETAILS OF YOUR RING, WHAT WAS THE PROCESS LIKE FOR YOU, AND WHAT ARE YOUR FAVOURITE ASPECTS OF THE PIECE. 

E, VVS1, Oval, 18ct Gold. Our first conversation with Cassandra was warm and welcoming. She met with Gerard and I to discuss initial designs, and from that point on, I stepped back from the planning while Gerard and Cassandra worked their magic. Gerard has nothing but positive things to say about the entire experience. He found Cassandra’s expertise and approach incredibly comforting, making the whole process seamless and enjoyable.

My favourite aspect is the sparkle, I call it the "Sparkle Bomb" and I've had quite a few people comment on its sparkle.

DO YOU HAVE ANY WEDDING PLANS YET?

No not yet, but when we do you'll hear from us about our wedding bands. 

Lily and Gerard’s engagement marks the beginning of a beautiful new chapter in their love story. We are honoured to have been a part of this special moment and wish them a lifetime of love and happiness. Congratulations to the happy couple!

Want to see more #SheSaidYes moments like Lily and Gerard’s? Follow us on Instagram and share your own proposal story with us using the hashtag #SheSaidYes.