“LOVED this episode!!! Can’t wait to get my first piece of Ring Concierge after this!” - Spotify Podcast Reviewer
What engagement rings are actually worth investing in through 2026? And is lab-grown worth it?
Ring Concierge founder Nicole Wegman - who built a $100M+ jewelry brand with diamonds - joins Maggie to break down the trends shaping engagement rings right now, the lab-grown vs natural diamond debate, and why “engagement season” creates so much pressure. She also shares the real founder story behind Ring Concierge: starting with $2,000, bootstrapping to $100M+ in sales, and what it takes to scale from scrappy entrepreneur to CEO without losing the aesthetic, the community, or yourself.
We also talk about the unspoken side of success - how money and reputation can change the people around you - and why Nicole built a nine-figure business without outside investment by designing around what women actually want: clarity, taste, trust, and a brand that feels like you.
Nicole discusses:
Engagement Season Pressure: Why holidays amplify timelines, comparison, and the feeling of “needing” a ring - even when the relationship isn’t ready.
Lab-Grown vs “Real” Diamonds: Why the debate is so heated, what actually separates lab from natural, and how to choose based on your values (budget, size, sentiment, and long-term value)
Bootstrapping to $100M Without Playing the Exit Game: The mindset of building profitably, reinvesting for years, and why she didn’t raise money until it supported the next chapter of growth.
Hiring & Leadership: What she looks for in every hire (grit, pivot-ability, no ego), and the hard truth that the team that got you here might not be the team that gets you there.
♡ 01. perfectly warm mornings ♡
I love starting my day without rushing. Having my drink stay at the perfect temperature makes slow mornings feel intentional.
♡ 02. effortless polish ♡
This is my go-to when I want a little color and hydration without committing to a full makeup look.
♡ 03. founder mindset ♡
This book completely shifted how I think about building, testing, and growing ideas. It’s a must-read if you’re creating anything from scratch.
♡ 04. cozy at home ♡
The moment I slip these on, my body relaxes. They make evenings at home feel like a real reset.
♡ 05. organized luxury ♡
Keeping my jewelry protected and easy to find makes getting ready so much smoother.
♡ 06. power layering ♡
Throwing this on instantly makes me feel confident and put together, even on low-effort days.
♡ 07. better sleep ritual ♡
Winding down is non-negotiable for me. This helps my body relax and makes falling asleep feel effortless.
♡ 08. sleek finish ♡
When I want my hair pulled back and polished, this is my secret weapon. Clean, smooth, and easy.
♡ 09. everyday classics ♡
These are the kind of staples you never take off. Simple, timeless, and always right.
♡ 10. salon results at home ♡
This has completely changed my hair routine. Fast, powerful, and worth every bit of hype.
♡ Hot, Smart, Rich Tips ♡
♡ Hot Hack ♡
A killer piece of jewelry always gives a boost of confidence. My go-to is a pair of diamond studs, trust me on this one. You will look prettier.
♡ Smart Hack ♡
If you’re building a company, learn the financials as well as you learn the product. That’s how you stay in control.
♡ Rich Tip ♡
When prioritizing how to allocate time or resources, I ask myself is this making me money or saving me money? If not, maybe I shouldn’t be focusing on it.
♡ Favorite Part of the Conversation ♡
I loved the honesty we shared about balance. I think it’s important that more women, especially working moms, are open and honest about the fact that it often isn’t realistic. And it’s okay to feel like you’re dropping the ball in certain areas of your life while you focus on others.
♡ Something People Don’t Know About You ♡
I’m deeply sarcastic. My motto is if it’s not fun, it’s funny.
♡ About The Guest ♡
Nicole Wegman - Founder and CEO of Ring Concierge
Nicole Wegman is the founder and CEO of Ring Concierge, the New York–based fine jewelry brand that has transformed the engagement ring shopping experience for a new generation of women. With a background in fashion buying and product development, Nicole launched Ring Concierge in 2013 after noticing a gap in the market: luxury bridal and fine jewelry that was both elevated and accessible, created with women in mind.
What began as a side hustle has grown into a multimillion-dollar direct-to-consumer brand known for its customizable designs, social media-driven storytelling, and modern approach to shopping for life’s most meaningful pieces. Wegman is GIA-certified and remains deeply involved in product design and brand strategy. Under her leadership, Ring Concierge has expanded into physical showrooms and built a cult following online, redefining what it means to buy engagement rings and heirloom-quality jewelry today.