There’s nothing that makes us swoon quite like hearing about high school sweethearts! After over a decade together, Nick and Melissa have finally made the big leap!
Back to the Beginning
Though they met in their 6th-grade social studies class, Nick and Melissa’s love story didn’t officially start until the summer before their freshman year of high school. Their first formal “date” was to the school’s annual 8th-grade dinner dance—and the rest is history. “After dating throughout high school, we did long distance all throughout undergraduate and graduate schooling for 6 years,” they said. Now, after 15 years together, they’re entering the next steps towards forever.
How Did You Know It Was Mean to Be?
With that much history together, you’d think there was one moment that solidified the idea of a future together. But, for Nick and Melissa, it’s never been a question.
“I don’t think there was a singular moment where I came to this realization,” Nick recalled. “But, growing through the many seasons of life together throughout our time dating certainly solidified that Melissa was the right person for me to do life with.”
Melissa said the same: “I don’t think there was a singular moment when I knew Nick was the one.” She continued, “He has always been my best friend, and we have never stopped having fun while we are together, which I think is key to a long and loving partnership. What I value most in him as a partner is his unwavering support and the way he makes me laugh every day.”
Happy Ring Shopping
The two lovebirds decided to look at rings together. Before they stopped by Fink’s, Melissa had some initial ideas on desired diamond shapes—notably, the solitaire marquise. “Although she had her ideal ring in mind, we were able to look at many different options, including marquise, to confirm this was the perfect fit for her,” Nick explained. “It was great to see different options and sizes and to get expert advice on different settings.”
Some brides prefer to be surprised by their beloved’s ring choice, but shopping together at Fink’s is an incredibly unique and intimate experience. Melissa loved that she and Nick got to go together and look at a variety of designs. “I love the simplicity and elegance of the marquise shape and the clarity of the diamond itself. I really love how well the ring works with my wedding set, which includes a bezel set band and a bubble band for added dimension.”
Popping the Question
When you’ve known one another since middle school, making the perfect proposal plan is simple! The two were on a weekend trip with their pup, Petunia, to Charlotte, North Carolina. Before heading to a Jonas Brothers concert (Melissa’s favorite band), he tied a bandana that said, “Will you marry my Dad?” around Petunia’s neck and surprised Melissa with a proposal.
Despite being together for nearly 15 years at this point, Melissa was quite shocked that Nick chose to propose on this adventure. But, of course, her answer was “yes!”
Why They Chose Fink’s for the Engagement Ring
Family-owned and operated, Fink’s Jewelers offers unbeatable engagement ring shopping in both variety and customer service. When asked why they chose us for their once-in-a-lifetime purchase, Nick and Melissa credited their decision to the great selection, the expertise of the staff, and the ability to work one-on-one with team members to find the perfect pairing of diamond and setting. “They were [thoughtful] about how the engagement ring would fit with other pieces we would later incorporate into the wedding set.”
“I really loved having the one-on-one support from Kene; he worked with me for months to find the perfect diamond and setting for her,” said Nick. “He provided many different options, gave excellent insight into the pros and cons of different diamond/setting combinations, and really helped me to make a great decision on the perfect ring. He made sure that I was well educated on all the aspects of diamond quality, and I left not settling for anything less than perfect for Melissa! I appreciated his knowledge and honesty throughout the entire process.”
A Glimpse Into Melissa and Nick’s Future
Now that the question’s been asked and the ring sits on Melissa’s hand, the happy couple are just thrilled to walk through life together.
“We are incredibly excited to travel and explore together and just grow through the next phases of life together. Traveling to new places and trying out new experiences. We have grown a lot together over 15 years of dating, and we’re incredibly excited to support each other in whatever next endeavors and opportunities come our way.”
