Friday 10 February 2017

Joanne & Colin’s Engagement in the Land of Smiles

“Looking back, it couldn't have worked out better for us - experiences in life, and the maturity with age helped establish a relationship with a strong foundation of trust and respect.” –Colin Chow

Joanne and Colin have known each other for years. The first time they met was as colleagues more than 10 years back. Somehow, Joanne had already caught Colin’s eye back then but they didn't hit it off. Life went on, and they went separate ways. Both have moved on at work and in life, until about 3 years ago where they met again and started developing a renewed friendship.

After a year of serious relationship, Colin felt that it’s about time to bring their relationship to the next level.

Colin’s Proposal Ring Journey


Compared to other guys who do their research subtly, Colin started his, by getting some ideas on what Joanne's preferences are by visiting jewelers with her to do some "window shopping".  They went to almost all high-street and non-name brand jewelers and established that she liked a halo setting in rose gold. As it turns out, Colin actually had stronger preferences of what the engagement ring should look like that gave to the following requirements:

(1) Colin wanted the design to be based off the Claddagh ring. This is because they shared some special memories in Ireland, and the symbolism of the claddagh that they both have is deeply meaningful to Colin- "love, loyalty and friendship"

(2) It’s their preference not to get a diamond of too high carat so that she could wear the ring daily comfortably.

(3) They wanted to incorporate elements that would give it a more classic look such as filigree and milgrain

(4) and many other requirements. 😏


Why JannPaul?


“The main reason why I chose JP is because of the quality of the staff and how JP catered to my needs. Other jewellers were more interested to sell me what they had than to understand what I required in an engagement ring. When I visited JP without an appointment, they gave me a primer on diamond buying and showed genuine interest in what I was hoping to acquire. With further knowledge gained on the subject matter, and further shopping elsewhere, I decided to proceed with who I thought could best meet my interests - hence, JP. Oh, and also because I fell in love with the cushion Brellia. :)” -Colin



Customization Begins..


After choosing the Cushion Brellia that Colin really likes, the next part of the process is even more strenuous.

How would you incorporate a claddagh and a filigree and milgrain in a single ring?   
 ....while keeping it classic??? 



While everything seems perfect when we imagine it, some designs don’t just compliment all types of ring. And there are some designs that can accentuate the main diamond more. That is when 3D rendering comes in handy!

After a few rounds of designs….


Finally, Colin found the best one that suits his and her girlfriend’s preference.


Instead of incorporating an actual hand on the design, it was replaced with filigree that engulfs the heart, symbolizing the same thing while keeping the engagement ring’s beauty and elegance.





Preparations for the proposal


Despite their very hectic schedule at work, they manage to allot a certain time that they took a break from it all. 



25th of November, under the stars in a private pool in Kamala Beach Thailand, he professed his love. In spite of the short preparation, it was perfect - she was thoroughly surprised happy, and of course, she loved the ring!

Congratulations Joanne & Colin!!

- Written by Joy Barcelona