Very few pieces of a traditional wedding can last a lifetime. Invitations go in the recycling bin, guests eat the food, flowers wilt, and the music ends. But the rings? That’s a different story altogether. Handcrafted wedding rings are not only unique, but they can also tell your story for generations to come.

At the Ringed studio in Portland, Oregon, I help couples and individuals create lifelong memories as they make their own rings. Whether for an engagement, wedding, or just because, smithing your one-of-a-kind ring is a remarkable experience. Connect with me today to learn more or to book your workshop.

The Debra and Joseph Story

When Debra Crawford was preparing to propose to her partner, Joseph Benton, she wasn’t eager to choose a standard ring from a traditional jeweler. Since she and Joseph are both makers, Debra knew she wanted to propose with something more intentional and hands-on than a ring from a store’s display case.

Debra kept feeling led to have something handmade for her proposal, but she also wanted it to last a lifetime. Since she isn’t a jeweler or metalsmith, Debra worried that anything she made on her own wouldn’t look the way she imagined or survive as long as she wanted.

Enter Google. 

A “last-ditch” online search showed Debra that a make-your-own ring experience existed in Portland. Hooray! 

Debra said of her online search, “After reading through the [Ringed] process and blog posts, I quickly knew that Allison would be part of this experience.” 

• The chance to create a meaningful design? Check!

• Ethically-sourced materials? Check!

• Hands-on guidance from an expert metalsmith and jewelry designer? Check

There was one last hiccup in the decision-making process. Debra knew Joseph would want to be part of this opportunity, too, so she didn’t want to do it without him. 

Instead of working with Allison to make the engagement ring, she decided to fashion a paper ring for the actual proposal. On the paper were the words Ring Workshop Sunday. Joseph said, “Yes,” and the two were in the Ringed studio the next day to create their wedding rings together!

Handcrafted Wedding Rings Are The Perfect Fit

So, how did they turn out? Amazing! This photo speaks for itself.

Joseph shared his thoughts on their wedding ring workshop experience:

“Getting to spend a day with Debra learning how to make rings was absolutely right up my alley. But relishing our new engagement at the same time made it that much more special! 

The ability to be in total control of the final product was so rewarding, and choosing the final finish of the ring was a particularly fun aspect. Taking home our wedding bands, knowing that they were filled with our work and love and our engagement story couldn't have been replicated by choosing a ring from a jewelry store.”

Debra and Joseph’s workshop was a beautiful session full of intention and connection - the perfect way to begin preparing for their upcoming wedding. Having handcrafted wedding rings to exchange elevates the entire commitment experience.

Are You Ready To Enjoy a Ringed Studio Workshop?

People book workshop experiences for various reasons, with engagements and weddings leading the pack. But more and more folks are also embracing the idea of creating self-love rings. The commitment to yourself is absolutely worth celebrating with a handmade ring. 

No matter the reason, a ring-making workshop is a unique, impactful experience for singles or couples. And it starts about two months before you actually make your ring! I allow plenty of time to collaborate on the design to ensure it is just what you want to represent your love.

My clients have a few choices when it comes to the actual ring-making process:

• In a metal fabrication workshop, you come to the studio to smith your ring or rings. You’ll learn some basics, such as sanding, soldering, and finishing.

• In a wax carving workshop, I will guide you in carving a wax model of your ring design. I take this to make a mold and cast your ring from it. 

• For the wax carving option, you can come to the studio to finish it with my guidance and support, or I can do it for you.

Each choice will result in a beautiful piece of jewelry to commemorate this important time in your life. 

Whether you are ready to pop the question or want to celebrate another significant moment, I’m here to help. The Ringed studio is a peaceful, inclusive space that invites you to create something extraordinary. Connect with me today to learn more and to start planning your custom experience.