A Ring Called Devotion: Brendan and Georgia’s Engagement Story

PO8: Congratulations on your engagement! How did you two meet? Can you tell us a little about your love story thus far?

G: We have known each other for almost 15 years, and were introduced when Brendan was providing consulting services to the taxi industry, and I was the CEO of the industry association. Since meeting we’ve shared a special friendship, kept in touch, and attended each other’s milestone birthdays. Having both left significant, long-term relationships, what began as a close friendship, flourished into the realisation of the true meaning of soulmates. We support and complement each other in the ways we both wished for, that previously felt impossible. From our first meeting, we have relished discovering a shared love of food, art, history, creativity, music, animals, and much more.

PO8: Brendan, how did you come across Pieces of Eight Gallery, and what drew you to Melanie Katsalidis’s work in particular?

B: Georgia is brave and creative, and she inspires me, giving me the courage to embrace my interest in artistic and creative pursuits. While Georgia’s professional career has centred on senior business roles, she chose to also study jewellery, and is a qualified jeweller. Both of us have a deep interest in history, and I was intrigued when she told me about Pieces of Eight, and the gallery’s link to European history. Several years ago, Georgia’s family commissioned Melanie to create a bespoke ring with a large Australian opal they had obtained. The result was stunningly beautiful and she wears it every day. One of the first pieces of jewellery I purchased for Georgia was a pair of Melanie’s Elysian Baroque Pearl Drop Earrings, which she has worn ever since, so I couldn’t think of a more appropriate jeweller, and gallery, to celebrate our shared commitment. 

The Ring

PO8: You selected Melanie’s ‘Devotion Love Ritual’ Ring to propose with. What stood out to you about this piece? Did you consider other ring styles or gemstones, or did you know this was ‘the one’ as soon as you saw it?

B: I was immediately attracted to the Devotion Love Ritual Ring because it symbolises our devotion to each other, and a shared  lifelong commitment. The ring stood out because of the unique green colour of the parti sapphire, which reminds me so much of Georgia, her eyes, and favourite colour. Melanie is Georgia’s favourite jeweller and the setting of the sapphire, and knife edge band, perfectly echo the design elements of Georgia’s opal ring.  

PO8: Can you tell us about the process of selecting the ring? Did you work with the gallery team directly?

B: I saw Georgia’s future engagement ring on the gallery’s website. After a quick check with Georgia’s dad, David, who is also creative, with excellent taste, I called the gallery. Gallery staff, Georgia and Hannah, were exceptional. They recognised the gravity of my decision and went out of their way to make one of the most important moments in our life even more special.

The Proposal

PO8: Georgia, take us back to the moment Brendan proposed. Were you expecting it?

G: Brendan is full of poetry and symbolism. He invests time and effort to build meaningful moments and memories for us, and for those he loves. The day he chose to propose, also happened to be my birthday. I had the joy of a genuine surprise when he proposed, on top of his plans to celebrate my birthday. Aspects of the day, mirrored the day he had  planned for my previous birthday, which we had celebrated together as friends. These moments have become the foundation of new rituals for us as a couple.

PO8: Brendan, you chose to propose in front of a particular artwork at the NGV. Why that piece, and what did it represent for you both?

B: Georgia and I have a deep appreciation and affinity for art and history. The National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) has always been a special place for me. Whilst at high school, I had the privilege of undertaking my work experience at the Gallery. One of my favourite paintings, “The Garden of Love”, from the studio of Vivarini, is a medieval piece depicting an elaborate fountain scene, painted on wooden panels (spalliere). Its particular significance, aside from its beauty is its representation of love, and the fact that it would have traditionally been presented to a bride by her bridegroom, for the matrimonial home. Its links to skilled artisans and woodworkers, remind me of both my father, and Georgia’s also.  

PO8: What was your first reaction to seeing the ring, Georgia? What did it feel like to wear it for the first time?

G: Jewellery, adornment and heirloom treasures that transcend generations, hold a particular value for Brendan and I, as a way to express ourselves, honour history, mark milestones and build a collection to last for future generations. When I first saw my ring, I thought it was incredibly beautiful and reflected how well Brendan knows me; it represents both of us perfectly. Despite having enjoyed the design and construction of jewellery in many forms over my life, I’ve always loved the romance and symbolism of a ring selected just for me. Brendan also organised the resizing of my ring, with the wonderful support of the gallery staff, so I could wear it within a matter of days after he proposed. I’ve not taken it off since; it is my most prized possession.

The Future

PO8: Have you started dreaming about the wedding yet? Any early plans you'd like to share?

B & G: We regularly enjoy dreaming about our wedding day. Over the coming months, we’re looking forward to establishing a new home together in an historic building in Elwood, one of many locations we have considered for our special day. Wherever we choose to hold it, we will ensure it is a joyous celebration of us, surrounded by our loved ones, and a party that we will remember forever.