- Can you first tell us a little bit about yourself and what inspired you to create Expectancy Rings?
After graduating from the Fashion Arts program at Humber College, I opened my own online boutique, which I ran for over three years. Then I decided to expand my love of fashion into the bridal world and became a consultant at luxury bridal boutique, White Toronto.
While working in the bridal industry, I was well aware of the significance of engagement rings, wedding bands and even wedding gowns to mark two very important events in a person’s life – engagement and marriage. I loved helping women find a timeless wedding dress that would allow them to look back and remember their special day long after it passes, but I also realized that unlike engagement and marriage, there was no set way of announcing and commemorating the next most precious and life-changing moment – pregnancy.
Trying to fill this void in the market, I came up with Expectancy Rings as a fixed way of sharing pregnancy and more specifically, the gender of your baby with family and friends, just as you would a photo of an engagement ring to announce the exciting new union in your life.
- How are your designs inspired by this life milestone?
As every expectant parent’s journey is unique, I thought it would only be fitting that each client should be able to completely customize their piece from Expectancy Rings. Clients can choose a design that suits their aesthetic –a thin stackable band, thick diamond embellished design or signature half-swirl band – type of gold, and most importantly, a pink or blue sapphire to represent a baby girl or boy. The option for a clear sapphire is also available to those who prefer to keep it gender neutral or keep their child’s gender a secret until birth. I also offer name and birthdate engravings to add an extra, personal touch to the ring!
Bringing a new child into your life, whether it be by birth or adoption, is a moment that should be remembered for the rest of your life. I use only solid 18k yellow, white or 14k rose gold and high quality sapphires to ensure every ring reflects that moment and lasts a lifetime.
- Who is most often buying Expectancy Rings?
A ring from Expectancy Rings is a unique gift for parents at any stage of their growing family. We offer an easy-to-use gift registry that can be shared with friends and family and complimentary delivery, which makes it a perfect baby shower gift! I’ve had clients buy a ring to gift at gender reveal parties and often just as a sentimental gift for the expectant mother in their lives, however I’ve had many mothers-to-be treat themselves to their own rings from Expectancy Rings!
- Has there been one customer or story that has stood out to you? Or that you’ll always remember?
I recently had a same-sex couple purchase matching unisex bands to announce the adoption of a baby girl. Each family is unique, and it isn’t always pregnancy that constitutes a reason to celebrate bringing a new child into your life. It’s really touching to see all types of parents using the rings as a way celebrating their growing families!
- Any advice for aspiring #creators?
Collaborate! It’s always inspiring to connect with others who share your passion and it’s so important to feed off of one another’s positive energy.
