For Jasmine Carter, founder and designer behind Balacia, the journey into fine jewelry began with one life-changing “yes.”
“My love for jewelry was sparked the moment my husband proposed to me on December 28, 2017,” Jasmine shares. “He gave me a 1-carat round engagement ring—the exact style I had dreamed of—which made me feel incredible.”
That moment ignited a passion that would later blossom into a full-fledged business. By 2020, Jasmine was ready to upgrade her engagement ring with a custom-designed 6.5-carat radiant cut set on an eternity band—her first bespoke piece crafted just for herself.
“I felt so special to have rings that were literally made especially for me,” she reflects. “I knew I wanted others to feel just as amazing as I did.”
And she’s done exactly that for countless couples, like former NFL player Andrew Brown and his fiancée Whitley, who were left speechless by Jasmine’s craftsmanship:
Still floating from this magical moment. Thank you to Balacia for creating the most breathtaking engagement ring l’ve ever seen. The craftsmanship, the sparkle, the detail — it’s everything I dreamed of and more. You truly brought our vision to life in the most perfect way. Forever grateful!
– Whitley Brown
From designing rings that go viral to fulfilling promises made to loved ones, Jasmine’s path from Maryland roots to industry recognition is as brilliant as the pieces she creates.
Raised in Anne Arundel and Howard County, she always knew the traditional path wasn’t for her. She was destined for creative entrepreneurship.
“I didn’t enjoy college much because the core classes bored me,” she admits. “But I promised my grandma on her deathbed that I would finish my degree someday.”
That promise led her to pursue design (of all kinds!) from architecture to fashion—before finding her true calling in fine jewelry. What started as a side hustle selling custom pieces on Facebook Marketplace quickly evolved.
After leaving real estate and a role in event sales with HelloFresh that helped her become debt-free, Jasmine’s viral engagement ring upgrade changed everything.
“Suddenly, I was flooded with requests to create engagement rings. I designed their rings, earned amazing reviews, got referrals, and grew a community on social media. I’ve been a full-time jeweler ever since!”
Today, Balacia is synonymous with luxury, legacy, and love. Jasmine Carter’s story is a shining example of what happens when passion meets purpose—and the world takes notice.
Keep scrolling for our exclusive Q&A with Muna Coterie member Jasmine Carter of Balacia.
Shop Balacia* and use the discount code MUNALUCHIBRIDE for $60 off your entire order! A minimum purchase of $500 is required and is limited to one use per customer.
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- Owner: Jasmine Carter
- Company: Balacia
- Blog Series: Behind the Brand
What makes your brand unique?
Balacia stands apart for the quality, craftsmanship, and heart we put into every piece. Only the top 5% of diamonds make it into our collection, and each ring is handcrafted by master jewelers who share our passion for excellence. But more than that, our pieces are designed to last for generations and to carry stories that matter. We’re not just selling jewelry—we’re crafting legacy pieces that hold emotion, meaning, and timeless beauty.
As a family-owned business and Christian-led company, family and faith are important to you and your business ethos; can you elaborate on this?
Faith is the foundation of everything I do. It’s been a journey of learning to trust in God’s timing rather than rushing my own plans. As someone naturally driven and often impatient to reach the next milestone, I’ve learned that real growth—personally and professionally—comes from surrendering control and staying faithful.
What’s your favorite piece in your latest collection?
Right now, I’m captivated by our marquise hidden halo engagement rings. I’m in the process of finalizing a signature Balacia design that I hope to trademark as soon as possible. I’m admittedly a bit indecisive about whether I want it simple or extravagant— I want it to be absolutely perfect.
How would you describe your design style and creative process?
My design style is ever-evolving because I find inspiration in everything—from flowers to architecture. Sometimes I gravitate toward bold statements; other times I lean into timeless minimalism. I sketch constantly, often using my phone’s markup tool on photos, and I organize everything in Trello and Dropbox to bring each design from concept to completion.
Why is being a part of MunaLuchi’s Coterie important to you? And what do you hope to accomplish?
The sense of community within MunaLuchi’s Coterie is powerful. I value the social synergy, shared values, and the opportunity to collaborate with others who are shaping the bridal world. It’s about growing together, not just professionally but creatively.
What advice would you give other young entrepreneurs trying to enter the wedding industry/jewelry business?
Focus on education, not just trends or opinions, but real knowledge. Become an expert. Understand the fundamentals. Be clear on what you want to build—a custom house, a ready-to-wear line, or a signature collection—and why it matters to both you and your customer. Focus on your passion and what you want your clients to feel when they see and wear your jewelry.
Any exciting events or updates?
Yes! Once our signature collection is finalized, you’ll begin to see Balacia pieces in select retail stores. Whether online or in person, your support means the world to us as we enter this next exciting chapter.
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