FINISHING TOUCHES

www.clairecollinsonphotography.co.uk touches FINISHING

You won’t forget the final details when it comes to your big day thanks to this stunning collection of jewellery and accessories

Sarah Hickey Men’s Hammered Band 4mm in 9ct Yellow Gold, £390, www.sarahhickey.co.uk Sarah Hickey Salt and Pepper Long Hexagon Cut Diamond in 9ct Yellow Gold, £760, www.sarahhickey.co.uk Sarah Hickey Elara Interlocking Halo Salt and Pepper Diamond Set in 9ct Yellow Gold, £1750, www.sarahhickey.co.uk

www.clairecollinsonphotography.co.uk www.marionbotella.com

Emma Hedley Jewellery Bespoke Sapphire and Diamond Engagement Ring, from £1200, www.emmahedley.com Sarah Hickey Portia Montana Sapphire Trio Ring in 9ct Yellow Gold, £1,600, www.sarahhickey.co.uk Silverkupe Seed collection rings, £70 – £100, https://silverkupe.com

Emma Hedley Jewellery Radiance II Fairtrade White Gold and Diamonds, £8,150, www.emmahedley.com

THE HISTORY BEHIND WEARING A RING Busy looking for your perfect rings but don’t even know why you’re wearing them in the first place? Ruth Baxter from Hexham’s Sarah Hickey Jewellery reveals all…

“Nothing beats the moment you hear those four little words, before you gaze upon the most beautiful engagement ring! But did you know how far back this tradition can be traced? Origins start with the Ancient Egyptians, who presented rings of carved serpents swallowing their tails, signifying eternity. Rings symbolising commitment, love and devotion can be followed throughout history, but it’s only in the 1400s that diamonds started to be incorporated. In the 1940s they became the most popular gemstone, with Hollywood A-listers promoting diamonds for De Beers. And, of course, Marilyn Monroe famously sang, Diamonds are a Girl’s Best Friend! Sparkling white diamonds are still popular, however there’s a growing demand for something a bit different – step in salt and pepper diamonds! Breathtakingly beautiful and with inclusions that appear both black and white, each is as unique as its wearer.”

For more information head over to www.sarahhickey.co.uk

MAKE YOUR OWN WEDDING RINGS!

Newcastle based Silverkupe, owned by jewellery designer Emine Thompson, runs a Wedding Band Workshop. Here, Emine discusses ring trends, as well as why for her the personal touch is often best…

EMINE ON RING TRENDS “Are you about to choose your wedding bands? Although there are always style trends and advice on metal choices, it’s important to remember that your wedding bands are about you and your partner, including your likes, feelings and life choices. However, it is also a minefield out there when it comes to finding the perfect wedding ring, so sometimes getting inspiration from current trends can help you narrow down the options. Some say matte finish wedding bands are ‘in’ this year – moving away from more traditional shiny wedding rings. Mixed metals, for example gold and silver, were quite popular in 2021, and it seems they will be on trend still. Whatever you choose, you’ll be wearing your wedding band every day, so it needs to be comfortable and practical, as well as symbolising your love for one another.”

EMINE ON HER WORKSHOP “Did you know you can make your wedding bands yourselves? Both you and your partner can attend my Wedding Band Workshop, where you will handmake one another’s rings! The workshop is designed around you as a couple, with exclusive use of my fully-equipped studio for the day. You’ll be guided throughout all of the stages of making your rings, and no previous experience of jewellery-making or creativity is required. Starting from just £350, the workshop comes complete with a consultation plus a complimentary lunch at The Factory Kitchen in Newcastle.”

Neck and neck

These earrings are the perfect complement to any style of bridal gown – we’ll take the £60K ones, please…

A gorgeous necklace – whatever it’s made of – is the perfect gift for any bride to open on the morning of her wedding. Ladies, we recommend you leave this page open so your other half truly gets the hint…

www.marionbotella.com Treat yourself

Silverkupe Simplicity Stud Earrings, £40, https://silverkupe.com

Blow THE budget

Sarah Vuong Gabriella Round Rubover Drop Earrings, £95, www.sarahvuongbridaljewellery.com

https://rjm-photography.co.uk Sarah Hickey Beech Leaf Earrings in Sterling Silver, £45, www.sarahhickey.co.uk

www.marionbotella.com AC Silver vintage 16.78 Carat Ceylon Sapphire and 4.26 Carat Diamond 9ct White Gold Drop Earrings, £17,950, www.acsilver.co.uk

Berry’s Jewellers 18ct White Gold GIA Certificated Earrings, £59,995, www.berrysjewellers.co.uk Sarah Vuong Emily Crystal Huggie Large Pearl Earring, £65, www.sarahvuongbridaljewellery.com Silverkupe Half and Half Heart Earrings, £30, https://silverkupe.com Berry’s Jewellers Mikimoto 18ct White Gold Akoya Pearl & Diamond Embrace Earrings, £3,000, www.berrysjewellers.co.uk

Berry’s Jewellers 18ct White Gold Art Deco Large Millgrain Open Diamond Set Pendant, £3,195, www.berrysjewellers.co.uk Berry’s Jewellers The Origin Collection 18ct White Gold Marquise Diamond Faceted Teardrop Necklace, £1,495, www.berrysjewellers.co.uk https://unfurlphotography.pic-time.com/portfolio

Nothing says final touches like the accessories you choose to wear in or on your hair. From a cathedral-length veil to wow the crowds to a fascinator and more, you’ve plenty of choice to ensure you look nothing but incredible on your big day

https://rjm-photography.co.uk www.laurabeasley.photography

Sarah Vuong Dahlia Comb Silver, £65, www.sarahvuongbridaljewellery.com Moira J Florist Large Full Rose and Ranunculus Flower Crown, £POA, www.moiraj.co.uk MySBoutique.com Showstopper Emerald Green Fascinator, £26.95, https://mysboutique.uk

https://rjm-photography.co.uk

Beautiful Day Bridal VW087 Veil, £360, www.beautifuldaybridal.co.uk MySBoutique.com Poppy Floral Pink & Black Fascinator £28.95, https://mysboutique.uk Beautiful Day Bridal Liza Tiara, £98, www.beautifuldaybridal.co.uk Sarah Vuong Alice Headband, £55, www.sarahvuongbridaljewellery.com

FANCY REAL FLOWERS FOR SOMETHING MORE ORGANIC?

Moira Angus from Amble-based Moira J Florist has all the answers when it comes to floral dos and don’ts…

“Flowers can be just as instrumental as hair pieces and jewellery in terms of wedding accessories. If you’re not big on lots of bling, or if you’re looking for a natural or festival look, you can absolutely bring flowers in to play! From flower crowns and combs, to headbands and even single flowers simply wired in little sprigs, your wedding jewellery can even be made from fresh blooms.

“In general, these types of wearable flowers have no water source, so once cut and made into whatever accessory they’re going to be, it’s a case of keeping them looking as fresh as possible for as long as possible. This is where your florist will advise you best, as some flowers are much more adept at staying fresh out of water than others. Roses, gypsophilia, berries and thistles should last from the first ‘getting ready’ photos until well into the evening reception. Whatever you choose, any good florist will make your accessories at the very last minute in order to cut down the amount of time they’re out of water.”

For more information head over to www.moiraj.co.uk

Male room

Don’t forget about the guy in your life when it comes to making sure he accessorises with style!

Bernardo Soares from Newcastle’s Master Debonair is here to advise how it’s done…

“In 2022 we’re seeing greater demand for specific colours such as sage and lilac, especially when it comes to accessories like ties and pocket squares. Many couples are leaning more towards the more ‘organic’ themes this year, meaning there’s a focus on colours you would often associate with nature, like ivory and forest greens. This is then reflected in the styles and colours of accessories they’re seeking, with a bounty of requests for floral and paisley patterns.

“As always, a pocket watch never goes amiss as a wedding accessory, as they’re great for adding some traditional touches to the groom’s look on the day. They’re also a brilliant choice of gift for the best man, groomsmen or any other gentlemen with heavy involvement in the day, if you’re looking for something to show them your appreciation for joining in your celebration.”

Master Debonair Roamers Tan Brogues, £69.99, www.masterdebonair.com Master Debonair Silver Double Hunter Pocket Watch, £43.95, www.masterdebonair.com