This past month has been incredibly challenging. My father passed away, and shortly afterward, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. I’m sharing this to be transparent with my couples about why I’m making some changes to how I operate the business going forward. These changes are necessary to prioritize my health while also ensuring I can continue to provide the highest-quality workshop experience possible.
The good news is that my diagnosis is considered highly treatable and curable. I’m actively working with my medical team in Seattle to map out a treatment plan. I fully intend to continue doing what I love through this difficult chapter. Being in the studio with my couples is one of my happy places. I genuinely love what I do, and I want to feel like myself, not just a cancer patient, during my treatment. Plus, being self-employed means not working isn't really an option.
That said, I do need to make some adjustments.
What's Changing
I will be offering fewer workshop slots for the time being. I will intentionally plan around my treatment cycle to reduce the need to reschedule. Also, if something comes up, I'll have more open dates available to fit you in without leaving anyone in a difficult position.
I will also be taking on fewer rings with a higher level of custom elements. To stay organized, I have separated my workshops into more categories on my booking page.
My Commitment to You
Over the past 13+ years, I have had the privilege of working with over 1,500 couples in my studio. During that time, I’ve had to reschedule a workshop due to unavoidable circumstances on my end fewer than 10 times. It is only something I do when completely necessary and do not take lightly. I know my couples put a lot of energy into planning their sessions and are often working within a specific timeline. Honoring that commitment has always been one of my highest priorities.
My intention during this chapter is to keep rescheduling to an absolute minimum, just as I always have. Through 2025 and into 2026, I navigated significant life challenges and was able to keep rescheduling to a minimum by being strategic about my workshop availability and thoughtful about how I scheduled everything else. That is still my approach and my commitment to you. But just as it always has been, With These Rings is a one- person operation, and occasionally life will present emergencies and unexpected obstacles.
Deposit Policy
I also want to be clear about my deposit policy. Deposits are, and always have been, nonrefundable. Since the deposit goes toward sourcing the precious metal for your ring, refunding it after I have purchased your metal is not a sustainable business practice.
If you book with me, please do so with the understanding that your deposit is nonrefundable. This applies even in the rare case that the need to reschedule is on my end. You can absolutely use it to reschedule, and I will always do everything I can to find a date that works for you. If you don't have any flexibility to reschedule on your end, I want to make sure that you understand this policy before you book.
A Few Practical Notes:
When my white blood cell count is low, I will be wearing a mask.
I may need a short break during our workshop.
I won't have any hair - just so you know!
Some chemotherapy treatments can cause scent sensitivity. It would be great if you could avoid strong perfumes or heavily scented lotions on the day of your workshop.
If you are feeling sick, please reschedule. This is always appreciated, and especially important during my treatment.
While chemo can present some physical side effects, my skill and dedication to your experience remain unchanged.
I am not going anywhere and am here for you should any questions arise.
Looking forward to working with you in my studio!
xo,
Stephanie