I began my search for the perfect engagement ring by going to a large, very popular jewelry store in the area. This particular Company has advertisements on the radio all of the time talking about how you should come to their store and let thei...r "Non Commissioned Sales Staff" help you pick out the perfect diamond... To make a long story short that is false advertising, and it was the most high pressure sales situation I have ever been in. I eventually became so irritated I just walked out of the store.
When I walked into CDE I have to admit, I was skeptical, and had my guard up after my experience at the first jewelry store, but that quickly changed. Todd walked up to me, and introduced himself. He asked what he could do for me today. I told him that I had found the person I wanted o spend the rest of my life with and was ready to make it official. He congratulated me and I could tell he was truly happy for me even though I was a complete stranger. Todd then asked me if I would like a glass of water or another beverage, I accepted and he fixed it himself. After he returned we sat down and discussed what I was looking for. I described some of the requirements as he took notes. After we got all of the specifics worked out he asked me what my budget was, I told him and his response shocked me. He said "Well, what if we can get you exactly what you want for less than your budget ?" I didn't really know what to say, so I just said, "Sounds Great".
We began our search for the perfect engagement ring with Todd explaining how diamonds are graded, and what the differences were in grades. It was almost as if he was putting on a class for me. After he got me up to speed on the basics we dove into looking at the actual diamonds. We spent several hours looking at diamond after diamond. At one point I apologized. Todd's response was, "Do not apologize, this is a big deal and it needs to be perfect. We will take as much time as we need." That is the moment I realized this place was different. After another hour or so the owner, Mark, came over and introduced himself. We told him what we were looking for, and that we had just not found the perfect diamond. Mark then personally assisted Todd and I in our search. After about six hours we finally found the perfect diamond. After that we had to pick the setting. I told Todd what I wanted and he came back with the perfect setting on the first try! I never felt any pressure to make a decision or make a purchase.
After I purchased the ring Mark came over to where I was sitting and sat next to me. He thanked me for involving CDE in this special moment. He told me that I was now part of the CDE family and wished me happiness and success in my future marriage. He also told me that when we set a date I should bring my future bride up so they could meet her, and she could pick out a piece of jewelry to borrow and wear on our wedding day. I could not have asked for a better team to help me on that stressful day.
I have been to CDE many times after that day. Every time I walk in the door I am greeted by smiling faces, and I am always addressed by my first name. The CDE staff truly make you feel like you are part of their family. Mark, Todd, and the rest of the team are truly passionate about what they do and are some of the most genuine people I have ever done business with. I am a lifelong customer of CDE. If you give them a chance I know they will give you the same world class experience that they gave me!