Farmer Wants a Wife: Will & Jess's Heartwarming Engagement Ring Love Story

When reality television turns into real-life romance, magic happens. Will Simpson and Jess Cova's love story began on Channel 7's "Farmer Wants a Wife" Season 12. Still, their happily-ever-after is being written far from the cameras – on Will's farm in Berriwillock, Victoria, with a stunning custom engagement ring from York Jewellers marking the beginning of their forever.

A Love That Grew Like Good Soil

"It was a bit of a slow burn from the start," Will reflects, his eyes lighting up as he remembers those early days. "We obviously were extremely attracted to each other – that was a big tick to start. But our relationship built over time, and I just fell more and more in love with Jess."

What began as a television romance has blossomed into something more profound than either could have imagined. "We both say we feel like we've known each other forever," Will continues. "That's a comfortable feeling, which is really positive."

The transition from reality TV contestant to farm life partner for Jess, originally from Queensland, has been seamless. "We just clicked," she says simply, the kind of understatement that speaks volumes about genuine connection.

The Engagement Ring: A Custom Creation Born from Love

When Will decided it was time to propose, he knew exactly what he wanted – something as unique as their love story. After researching extensively, he discovered York Jewellers and was immediately drawn to Doug's custom design capabilities.

"The big thing for me was being able to customise and design my own ring," Will explains. "I had ideas in my mind, and Doug did an amazing job putting them onto paper. That's something I wasn't sure how to verbalise, but he did an incredible job."

The result is a breathtaking piece that perfectly captures Will and Jess's story. Crafted in yellow gold with white gold claws, the ring features a stunning centre diamond complemented by two small white diamonds positioned north and south in delicate tulip settings. But the most special touch lies hidden beneath – a pink Australian Argyle diamond nestled against Jess's finger, a secret treasure that only she can feel.

"I wanted that classical look but with something special," Will says. "Doug suggested the pink Australian diamond underneath, and I was all for it. It's something that not everyone sees, and Jess can show people and explain it. It's really special."

The Process: More Than Just a Purchase

Working with Doug at York Jewellers was an education in both diamonds and love. "I knew nothing about diamonds," Will admits. "Doug showed me through the different cuts, colours, imperfections, size – everything. The process made me understand a lot, which was important because it's such a big investment, and you want it to be perfect. I'm doing this once and only once."

The collaborative approach meant Will could bring his vision to life while learning about the craftsmanship behind it. "Doug's design skills are incredible. Just watching him work and do the drawings was really impressive."

The Surprise Proposal: A Moment Two Years in the Making

After celebrating their two-year anniversary in March and recently purchasing a house together, Jess thought she knew Will's timeline. "I was pestering about when we were going to get engaged," she laughs. "Will kept saying he was only in his third year of a four-year apprenticeship, so I thought I had another year to wait!"

Will's deception was masterful. When York Jewellers called for what Jess thought was a routine catch-up session for "Farmer Wants a Wife," she suspected nothing. "I messaged other girls from the show, and they said they were doing it too, so I didn't think anything of it."

But subtle signs emerged as they prepared for what Jess thought was a casual picnic. "Will was ironing his pants and putting on a different watch," Jess recalls. "I thought it was weird, but I still had no idea."

The proposal took place at their special spot – a location where they regularly enjoyed sunset drinks together. When Jess saw an elaborate arbour set up, reality began to dawn. "I was like, 'Oh god, oh god.' I thought all my family and friends were going to pop out!"

The moment itself was beautifully imperfect. When Will reached for his back pocket, Jess panicked and walked away. "I said, 'No, I didn't ask the question yet!'" Will laughs. "I was shaking and nervous, trying to get the ring out of my pocket."

"You wouldn't let me walk behind you on the way to the arbour either," Jess adds. "You were being so weird!"

She Said Yes!

When Will finally got down on one knee and asked the question, Jess's answer was immediate and heartfelt. "It was incredible," Will describes. "It was a very special moment, and I think surprising Jess as much as I did made it even more special."

For Jess, the ring exceeded every expectation. "I've had friends get engaged with beautiful rings, and I remember trying one on last year, thinking, 'I want that.' But Will went above and beyond. Doug and Will have done a very, very good job with everything, even the little details like the pink Australian diamond underneath. I could not want anything more or better."

Looking to the Future

Now engaged and planning their wedding, Will and Jess are proof that sometimes the best love stories begin in the most unexpected places. Their journey from reality TV to real life, from farmer and contestant to fiancé and fiancée, shows that everything else falls into place when you find the right person.

"It's cool actually," Jess says, looking down at her ring. "I keep looking down thinking, 'That's not real, that's not really on my hand.' And when I'm talking to people, I notice them looking at it too."

Will's advice to others considering this big step is simple: "Make sure it's right. Take your time with the process. Find a jeweller you can communicate well with and get along with. Doug and I got along really well—we spoke regularly leading up to designing the ring. It was seamless and easy."

"Find a good jeweller like Doug, or find Doug and get him to do it for you," Will continues with a grin. "And just be confident with what you're wanting. If you've got the right person, you may as well do it."

As for what's next? "Now Jess and I are talking about weddings," Will says. "I guess that's what happens next, isn't it?"

From a chance meeting on a reality TV show to a custom-designed engagement ring and a lifetime of love ahead, Will and Jess's story proves that the best romances are worth waiting for – and when you find the right person, you deserve to celebrate with a ring as unique and enduring as your love story.

 


 

York Jewellers specialises in custom engagement ring design, bringing couples' unique love stories to life through exceptional craftsmanship and personalised service. Located in Penrith and Warriewood, NSW, York Jewellers has been trusted by Sydney for over 50 years.

Visit yorkjewellers.com.au to begin your own love story.