How did you and your significant other meet?
We met by chance at Matchbox Bar in Denver's RiNo neighborhood, 5 weeks before lockdown began. Conversation began with our shared affinity for Jimmy Eat World & bad karaoke performances, & the rest is history.
As a couple, what are your interests/hobbies?
music, concerts, hiking, cooking, traveling, skiing, snowboarding
When did you know your partner was “the one” and you wanted to get married?
Matthew: I knew that Clare was the one after surviving the pandemic together, getting to know each other deeply, & moving on to create many special memories together. In February of 2022, I asked Clare's parents for her Abuelita's ring and started planning for the proposal. Clare: Of all the people I've dated, Matthew is the first person for whom I felt an uncontrollable gut instinct that I was falling "in like", then "in love" with - those thoughts & feelings of perceiving him as "the one" had been gradually developing since we navigated the pandemic lockdown.
What is one of your favorite things about your partner?
Matthew: My favorite thing has to be Clare's humor. I can always rely on her to share a laugh and showcase her wit and intelligence with how she's able to pluck a funny observation out of thin air at just the right time. Clare: Matthew is a classic romantic - he's wonderful dancer who writes the most thoughtful birthday cards & never fails to open a door or push in a chair for me.
What was your proposal like (was the ring a surprise or was it collaborative)?
Matthew proposed to Clare on May 17, 2022 while on vacation in Jamaica. After several days of making excuses to sneak away to secretly plan with many helpful new friends, I reserved a private surprise dinner under a gazebo overlooking Montego Bay. After being serenaded with The Association's "Never My Love," he popped the question and Clare tearfully responded "Hell Yeah!" Afterwards, we both leaned into our endorphin rush & celebrated by drinking mudslides and jumping in the pool with our clothes on.
Tell us about your wedding (if it has happened yet).
Our wedding is planned for March 2, 2024 in Winter Park, FL - we couldn't be more excited!
Why did you decide to work with Balefire?
We knew right away that we wanted to work with jewelry artists that specialized in custom work since Matthew had family jewelry he wanted to repurpose, & Clare's wanted to ensure she had a band to beautifully complement her Abuelita's engagement ring. Upon consulting between 2 studios, we were wowed by Balefire's enthusiasm, down-to-earth attitude, knowledgeability, friendliness, & personal connection to Baleigh and Jamie. We felt like we were working with old friends, people who genuinely wanted to share in our happiness & be a part of the beginning of our life together by making our wedding bands.
What advice would you give to other couples shopping for wedding or engagement rings?
Do some casual research online to determine your ring style & preferences, & to identify some inspiration to give jewelers something to work with. Ask lots of questions, & try on all the rings! Both partners should show some investment and enthusiasm for what their needs are. Go with your gut & work with those with whom you really vibe :)
Anything else you want to share?
We're beyond thrilled with our decision to entrust our wedding band design and creation to Balefire. From start to finish, they've been communicative, enthusiastic, & professional. Each time we stopped by for a consult, we felt like we were visiting with friends. We're so grateful & so in love with the final products!
