Engaged Wedding Magazine - October 2010

ALL THAT SPARKLES Choosing the right diamond for you

JEREMY HILL Showcases his beautiful images

ABSOLUTELY ADELAIDE Great shopping, food, wine, beaches...it has it all!

SNAP Tips for choosing your photographer

WIN! Fantastic prizes up for grabs

10/ 2010

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Notes from the Editors...

This month we have an issue full of great tips for planning your wedding. In particular, we explain what the 4 Cs actually mean and what you need to know to choose the perfect diamond. We also give tips on how to choose your photographer.

Cover Credits: Photography: Jeremy Hill Photography www.jeremyhill.co.nz Couple: Melissa & Jonathon

Advertising Enquiries: Email: info@engaged.co.nz Phone: 09 8455925 Post: PO Box 137101, Parnell Auckland 1151 Hamilton Media Limited accepts no responsibility for material provided by readers or advertisers. All material supplied is assumed to have been provided with the consent of the appropriate copyright holders Engaged is subject to copyright in its entirety. All rights reserved in material accepted for publication unless initially specified otherwise.

Our photo spread this month is from Jeremy Hill. As you will see, he has a fabulous style that really captures the day.

With the recession still hitting people, we look at another honeymoon destination that isn’t too far from home - Adelaide.

Adelaide is a great place to visit as it has it all.

Finally, don’t forget to check out the prizes that we have up for grabs!

Enjoy!

Tim & Gabrielle

table of DIVINE INTERVENTION

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102 JEREMY HILL SHOWCASE

102 CHOOSING YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER

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contents ABSOLUTELY ADELAIDE 102

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WHAT’S NEW & COMPETITIONS 40

ALL THAT SPARKLES 5

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... making your wedding dreams come true Just 50 minutes from Auckland’s CBD you’ll find magical Castaways.

Castaways provides the ultimate wedding experience you and your guests will rave about for years to come.

• Coastal cliff top ceremonies • Stunning sunset wedding receptions • Fabulous food • Award winning service • Guest accommodation • Honeymoon packages • Onsite activities Click here to download our new >online weddings pack<

Our team are available to meet with you onsite at Castaways. So contact us now and let’s start making your wedding dreams come true.

Castaways Karioitahi Beach, Waiuku Ph 09 236 5161 Email marie@castaways.co.nz Web www.castaways.co.nz * New & Exclusive to Castaways * Castaways is the only wedding venue in NZ to have its own “Little Black Photobooth”. Huge overseas, this is a great addition to your wedding, making it even more memorable.

“We’ve had such great feedback about our wedding at Castaways – amazing food, spectacular setting and outstanding service” (Castaways Bride, 2009)

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~ unique ~

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~ memorable ~

~ affordable ~

NEWS

New Beauty Website Hits Kiwi Shores Kiwi women will now have access to tips and tricks from leading international experts and information on the latest and greatest products with the launch of beauty website Rouge.

With over one million dedicated readers already in the USA and Canada, Rouge is a one-stop online destination for beauty buffs.

The website offers exclusive and instant access to global health and beauty professionals and cutting edge information from around the world.

Under the watchful and stylish eye of Contributing Editor, Melissa Hoyer, Rouge is updated on a weekly basis and features interviews and tips from international experts.

“I’m excited to create the New Zealand version of Rouge. It gives Kiwi women, the long awaited, exclusive access to some of the world’s biggest beauty talents and we’re delivering it straight to people’s inboxes. It’s a pretty cool and easy pick-me-up each week,” says Hoyer.

With her down-to-earth approach to style and pop culture, Hoyer’s varied career in the worlds of fashion and beauty have seen her produce and present Fox Fashion; the first locally produced fashion show in Australia.

She also went on to co-host a similar show with actor Hugh Jackman.

Well versed in the cult of celebrity, Hoyer has interviewed celebrities including designer Tommy Hilfiger, actress Cate Blanchett, singer Kylie Minogue and supermodel Naomi Campbell.

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CONGRATS!

Congratulations to the following who have each won a full Invitation and Website package win courtesy of Paperless Wedding!

Susan Sandretto Alix Campbell

WIN AN X-LARGE PREMIUM DESIGN PRINT FROM PIX ART WIN Here is a great concept - combine hundreds or even thousands of your images to create a favourite image! PIX ART is able to combine all of your wedding images to create a single amazing image - why choose only one image to display on the wall when you can have them all!

Check out their website www.pixart.co.nz to view heaps of examples of this amazing product.

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PIX ART have generously given us one X-Large Premium Design Print to give away to one lucky reader. Go here to enter

New Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Serum The Powerful Product that Firms as Well as a $500 Serum!

Introducing Olay’s newest anti-ageing skincare sensation – Regenerist MicroSculpting Serum – the powerful product that firms as effectively as a $500 serum!

younger-looking skin – and a serious confidence boost!

Use Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Serum in conjunction with Regenerist MicroSculpting Cream and you’ve got a powerful combination – the products work together to retain moisture and provide a protective barrier for your skin for up to 24 hours! In fact, when used together, Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Serum and Cream offer 70% more hydration for your skin.

Launched following the global success of Regenerist MicroSculpting Cream, the Serum is infused with the highest concentration of Regenerist’s signature amino-peptide complex.

The product is the most powerful in the Olay Regenerist range to date and targets the three hardest to treat areas - the eye area, jaw line and neck.

WIN!

Quickly absorbed into the skin because of its light-weight silky texture, Olay Regenerist MicroSculpting Serum contains a concentrated amount of amino-peptide and vitamin B3 complex to help visibly regenerate your skin’s surface appearance and reduce fine lines and wrinkles, so you get dramatically

We have an Olay Regenerist skincare prize pack valued at over $150 to giveaway to help your skin look picture-perfect for your big day.

CLICK HERE TO ENTER 9

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SAVE MONEY ON YOUR WEDDING SUPPLIERS A new Kiwi website is aiming to revolutionise how people engage tradespeople and service providers, including those used for weddings such as caterers, photographers and DJs. . The website, www.gotender. co.nz allows you to post any job that you want someone to tender for and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s completely free to use.

Once your job is posted, approved service providers are notified and have the opportunity to tender (provide fixed quotes) for your work. There is no obligation on you to accept any tenders so you retain freedom of choice.

No more chasing unknown tradespeople for inflated quotes. The theory is that at goTender the suppliers want your work and come to you with their best price.

You choose the best tender and when the work is completed you reward good work by giving a positive rating. The rating system creates accountability and hopefully means that your job will be completed to your satisfaction. goTender has partnered with KidsCan, Cancer Society of New Zealand and SPCA and all fees are donated directly to charity (suppliers who are awarded a job over $250 are encouraged to pay a $25 success fee).

To find out more, visit www.gotender.co.nz

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LEGO RINGS Are you into your Lego... I mean REALLY into your Lego? Well, if you are, this might be right up your alley!

These Lego rings fit standard Lego blocks which means that the design that you can have is endless. And, yes, someone has even used one as a wedding ring...

Available from here for approximately $400 (image courtesy of Color Me Katie)

- Made to Measure - From $500 - Free delivery - Wide Selection - High Quality Click below to visit us now!

www.donnazuri.com 11

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Absolutely

ADELAIDE

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honeymoon is all about relaxing after your wedding, spending your first days as a married couple together and treating yourselves - decadence is the name of the game! The good thing is that you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need to look too far to find the perfect place to indulge! Just across the Tasman is a place that has it all - great beaches, amazing countryside, vineyards, fantastic food Adelaide has it all.

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Getting there is pretty easy - with non-stop flights from Auckland to Adelaide with both Air New Zealand and Qantas. Another option though is to take your time getting there - fly into Melbourne and then drive along the Great Ocean Road over the next few days, discovering the Limestone Coast and Kangaroo Island along the way.

Once in Adelaide, it is extremely easy to get around - in fact, it has been nicknamed the ‘20 minute city’ as because of all of the places you can get to within 20 minutes of the city centre. Getting around the city centre is also pretty easy the layout of the city is quite like Christchurch and, if you get a bit tired, you can always hop on one of the free trams.

Once there, what is there to do?

Quick answer: heaps! A quick twenty minute tram ride gets you to the suburb of Glenelg, Adelaide’s beach destination.

As well as being able to laze on the beach, there are loads of cafes and shops lining the boulevard. During the summer, Adelaide has a similar temperature to Auckland, although it is a lot less humid so is much more pleasant. Having said that, this last summer temperatures did hit 40 degrees so if you are heading over there in the peak of summer, take your togs!

Food Adelaide Central Market is a great place to start for your culinary tour of the city. Filled with the freshest fruit, vegetables, meat and fish, this vibrant market is full of noise, colour and outrageous personalities.

Once you’ve sated your appetite, head down to Rundle

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Mall. This mall is the perfect place to let your shopaholic tendencies run wild. It is filled with international and national flagship stores and boutiques, speciality shops, cafes and even buskers. If your budget isn’t quite up to paying full price, you should visit Harbour Town, just fifteen minutes for the city centre. It is there that you’ll find loads of designer outlet stores.

Wine Once you have done central Adelaide, it is time to head out to the Barossa. An hour away, it is one of the world’s great wine regions, acclaimed for the vineyards, food and culture. Let’s start with the food - head to the Farmer’s Market, held on Saturday mornings in the historic Vintners Sheds near Angaston. Here you’ll find some of the freshest home-grown produce - make sure you take the opportunity to sample as much as possible as you’ll find some amazing food on offer.

The other reason for heading to the Barossa - wine. There is a multitude of amazing wineries - if you are into sampling some delicious vintages, this is the place for you! Given the shear number that you might want to visit, we would recommend taking a wine tour departing from Adelaide so that you don’t have to drive. Or even better, you can stay at one of the many great B&Bs at the Barossa itself - this will give you the opportunity to take your time and make the most of what this region has to offer.

All in all, Adelaide is a great place to visit for your honeymoon. It isn’t too far away, is easy to get around, has amazing food and wine, shopping and even some beaches thrown in for good measure. Who says you can’t have your cake and eat it too!

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Divine

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If you are planning to get married in the Hawkes Bay, then you definitely need to check out this venue. When we first saw The Old Church we couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t believe how gorgeous it looked. From the outside, it oozes history with its classic looks. Set amongst the vines with a view out to the Ruahines and Kawekas, it is the perfect backdrop for some stunning wedding photos.

But it is when you head inside that you are truly stunned. Its indulgent and luxurious decor sets the perfect tone your a sumptuous wedding. The attention to detail is outstanding and Paul, the events manager, seems to have every contingency covered.

Being based in the Hawkes Bay, a region that produces some of New Zealandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best produce, the catering is of course top notch.

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Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s more, the food is matched to amazing local wines to ensure an overall experience that will exceed expectations.

Both your ceremony and reception can be held in The Old Church restaurant which can cater for up to 200 guests.

For the bridal party, this great location has another trick (or two) up its sleeve - The Old Church Villa and Parkhill Estate. These offer luxury accommodation - perfect for those days prior to and after the wedding. www.theoldchurch.co.nz www.theoldchurchvilla.co.nz www.parkhillestate.co.nz

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Stunning freeze dried Rose and Hydrangea petals in 25 colours and blends

Exquisite bouquets for brides and bridesmaids

Personalized petal cones

Beautiful table centerpieces

Gorgeous flower girl petal pails

Complimentary consultation and design

www.foreverpetals.co.nz

Leonie Fisher Mobile Make-up Artist

Coco a Berry invitation by design p

fishyleo@orcon.net.nz 021 389423

WEDDING STATIONERY

Save the date Invitations RSVP Menus Order of service Thank You cards and more www.cocoaberry.co.nz 021 2636 147 info@cocoaberry.co.nz

Create your own unique jewellery.

Custom designs with delight.

Beads for embellishment. www.beadsgloriousbeads.com 6 Kingsland Tce, Kingsland, Auckland - Phone: 09 815 1177

BEADS

JEWELLERY

CLASSES

Mob: 021 458 687 diana@outside-the-square.co.nz

Through the Lens

Showcasing Photographic Excellence

Photograph by VisionWorks Photography

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Amy Schulz Photography

Website: www.amyschulz.co.nz Email: AmySchulzPhotography@gmail.com Mobile: 0211556071 Wellington and Nationwide

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Emma Hughes Photography Website: www.emmahughes.co.nz www.weddingsonwaiheke.co.nz Email: emma@emmahughes.co.nz Phone: 09 372 8729 Mobile: 021 051 3292 Waiheke and Auckland Master NZ Institute of Professional Photography

Amanda Wignell Photography Website: www.awp.co.nz Email: amanda@awp.co.nz Phone: 09 426 2647 Mobile: 027 615 3078 NZIPP Master of Photography Auckland and Northland (NZ Institute of Professional Photography)

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Photography by Marijke Website: www.photographybym.co.nz Email: mail@photographybym.co.nz Phone: 07 572 4085 Mobile: 021 560 509 Bay of Plenty and Nationwide

Victoria Vincent Photography Website: www.victoriavincent.com Mobile: 021 213 5759 Wellington, Nelson, Nationwide

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Email: victoria@victoriavincent.com

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Website: www.velaimages.com

Vela Images

Email: greta@velaimages.com Phone: 021 376 663 Auckland and Nationwide

VisionWorks Photography

Website: www.visionworks.co.nz Email: tim@visionworks.co.nz Phone: 09 845 5925 Mobile: 021 44 88 17 Auckland

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Brett Lees, Unique Visions Photography Website: www.uniquevisions.co.nz Email: brett@uniquevisions.co.nz Phone: 09 817 7014 Mobile: 0274 913 061 Qualified Member NZ Institute of Professional Photography Auckland

Jan Maree Vodanovich Photography and Art Website: www.janmareeart.co.nz Email: jan@janmareeart.co.nz Phone: 09 236 8553 Mobile: 027 281 5921 Auckland, Franklin, Hamilton

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Where The Heart Is Photography

Website: www.wheretheheartis.co.nz Email: info@wheretheheartis.co.nz Phone: 07 8547933 Mobile: 021 235 7976 Auckland, Waikato, King Country & Bay of Plenty

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Parker Swannell Photography Email: parkerswannell@gmail.com Phone: 09 817 2678 Mobile: 021 257 5355 Auckland

New Regent Studios Website: www.photos.co.nz Email: info@photos.co.nz Phone: 03 355 4448 Mobile: 027 229 2329 Christchurch

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Jeremy Hill Photography Website: www.jeremyhill.co.nz Email: enquiries@jeremyhill.co.nz Phone: (09) 8263394 Mobile: 021 2279196 Auckland

Vicky Broadbent VisionWorks Photography

Website:Website: www.vickybroadbent.co.nz broadbent@xtra.co.nz www.studioname.co.nzEmail: Email: info@studioname.co.nz Phone: 09 123 4567 Phone: Mobile:021 021633 123404 4567 Qualified Member NZ Institute of Professional Photography Coromandel and Auckland Auckland

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engaged Guide to Choosing Your Photographer

The

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o he popped the question, you said ‘yes’ and now you’ve set a date… this is when the planning really begins. With a lot of photographers being booked one or two years in advance, one of the first things that you should think about booking is your photographer.

So the next question is, how do you choose your photographer? Well, it’s not as difficult as it sounds… just use the 3 Ps - Photos, Photographer and Price.

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FEATURE

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The Photos It goes without saying that when deciding on your photographer, you need to love their photos. Each photographer has their own style which will be reflected in the photos. Some will have a more traditional, romantic style, whereas another might take more of a photojournalistic approach and capture the day from a more candid perspective. You need to ensure that the photographer’s style matches the type of photos that you want to have. To begin with, look at each photographer’s website. You should be able to assess their style from the selection of photos displayed there. This will also give you a good opportunity to see if they are in your price range and, if you like their photos, for you to call or email them to see if they are available on your date.

To ensure that you like a photographer’s photos, make sure that you look at as many of them as possible. Also, rather than just looking at the ‘hero’ shots from each wedding (ie the beautiful posed shots of the bride and groom), ask if you can see coverage of a whole wedding. This will give you a feel for the style that the photographer has when covering the other aspects of the wedding day, such as the preparation, family photos and reception.

With the majority of wedding photographers using digital cameras these days, they will often show you a range of photos on a computer or website. While this is a great way to see lots of photos, it is also useful to see some printed examples, whether prints on a wall or in albums.

This will let you see how their photos come out when printed and will let you see the quality of the photos printed at the size that you might want. If you view an album, it will give you an idea of the album style that they will be able to offer, if you choose to have one.

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The New Zealand Institute of Professional Photography (*nzipp) The *nzipp is a non-profit qualifying body for professional photographers in New Zealand. For photographers to become qualified *nzipp members, they must have attained a certain standard of quality.

They must also adhere to a specified Code of Ethics which ensures that members are professional in both their creative and business practices.

Using a photographer who is *nzipp-qualified will help give you piece-of-mind that the photographer will provide a certain quality of photography and service.

The *nzipp is also likely to assist you should you have a dispute with your photographer.

However, it should also be noted that the *nzipp is a voluntary association and there are plenty of quality photographers who are not members – so at the end of the day, you need to satisfy yourself that the photographer you choose is going to provide the quality and service that you expect for your wedding photography.

The Photographer It is all very well the photographer having lovely photos, but remember that they will be spending a lot of time with you on your wedding day. If the photographer is covering from the bridal preparation until the first dance, they will be with you for almost 12 hours. You need to ensure that you feel comfortable with them and their personality doesn’t annoy you (there is nothing worse than having your wedding day spoiled by a photographer who you feel is too pushy or whom you just don’t ‘click’ with). One thing to note, although you might want the most relaxed wedding day ever, it is likely that the photographer will still need to boss you around a little bit to ensure that you get the photos that you want. The beautiful photos that you see in magazines don’t just happen by accident and there is normally some degree of direction given by the photographer.

The photographer will also be instrumental in ensuring that you stick to your timing and get to your reception on time. So you

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should be happy that the photographer is going to push you enough to get the job done.

When meeting the photographer, it is also useful if you have an idea of the timing on the day and locations where you might like to have photos taken. This will enable the photographer to let you know whether your timing is realistic or whether you need to allow more time between the ceremony and reception (or cut down the number of photos/locations that you want). Photos take a lot longer than you may think, especially if you want more than one location. It is really important that both you and the photographer understand each others’ expectations, otherwise there is the potential for you to be disappointed on the day.

The Price Of course, the price is always a large factor in choosing a photographer. Photography is usually quite a large chunk of a wedding budget and, before looking for the photographer, you should have a good idea of how much you would like to spend.

Given that your wedding photos are a lasting reminder of your wedding day, it is worth ensuring that you get the best photographer possible for your budget. It is important to note, however, that as with most things, the most expensive photographer may not always be the best for you so don’t hesitate to talk to a number of photographers both at the top end of your budget and below.

When evaluating a photographer’s price, you should take into account the whole package price. Check to see whether the package includes prints, the negatives (or high-resolution files if they use digital), DVDs and albums. If it doesn’t, find out at the outset what the cost of these extras are so that you can factor them into the total price of your photography. There is nothing worse than having some beautiful wedding photos but not being able to afford

to buy the album to put them in!

The photographer’s package is also likely to include only a specified number of hours’ coverage. Check to see whether this is going to be sufficient to cover all of the parts of the day that you want photographed. If not, find out the cost for extra coverage.

Finally, ask the photographer about timing: things such as when you have to pay (deposit, final amount) and how long it will take to get your photos. Once again, having all of this information at the outset will ensure that you know what to expect and don’t have any nasty surprises.

Canvas Prints From Your Wedding Photos -

satisfaction guaranteed best price and quality high quality canvas huge range of sizes uv safe for many years easy online ordering from film or digital cameras

www.gicleeprint.co.nz

Tips for choosing your perfect diamond

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Right, so youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re off to look at engagement rings. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve heard everyone talk about the four Cs - but what on earth do they really mean? We break it down for you.

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Carat Carat = weight of a diamond. Pretty simple, eh? The more carats, the larger the diamond (although, as discussed later, just because it is larger, doesn’t necessarily make it better). One carat equals 0.2 grams. Diamonds weighing less than a carat are often measured using a point unit, which is equal to one-hundredth (or 0.01) of a carat. A 75 point carat is therefore a 0.75 carat diamond, being a diamond weighing 150 milligrams.

Generally the larger the carat size, the more valuable (and expensive!) the diamond will be. However, the price per carat does not increase smoothly with increasing size. Some carats are the so-called ‘magical weights’: the half carat (0.5), the three-quarter carat (0.75) and the one carat (1.0). There is not much difference between a 0.99 carat diamond and a 1.0 carat diamond, but a 1.0 carat diamond will often command a premium price.

The old ‘size doesn’t matter rule’ applies: a larger carat with blemishes will be less valuable than a smaller-carat flawless white diamond.

DID YOU KNOW....

The largest rough diamond ever found was the Cullinan Diamond, at 3,106.75 carats. The diamond is one of the British crown jewels.

The largest cut diamond is the Golden Jubilee, a 545.67 carat, yellow-brown diamond.

The largest flawless and colourless (grade D) diamond is the Centenary Diamond which weighs 273.85 carats.

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Colour To the average person glancing at a diamond ring, they all look the same colour. But no, in fact, diamonds range in colour from the extremely rare, completely colourless ‘white’ diamond to a light yellow, brown or grey. The colour of a diamond is graded according to the International Colour Grading Scale which starts at ‘D’ (exceptionally white) and goes through to ‘Z’ (tinted colour).

The closer to ‘D’, the more valuable a diamond will be.

D to F : These are considered colourless and, to the untrained eye, will look the same once mounted in jewellery.

G to J : These are considered near colourless and only a very slight colour tint will be noticeable. This tends to be the most popular colour range in New Zealand as it strikes a good balance between affordability and quality.

Colour imperfections are caused by chemical impurities and/or structural defects in the diamond.

Sometimes the chemicals in a diamond will result in the diamond being an intense hue such as bright yellow (Z-graded) or one of the ‘fancy’ diamonds, which include pink, blue, green, and red-hued diamonds. These diamonds can be very expensive.

K to M : These diamonds are considered faint yellow. If they are cut well, they will still look great, but some colour is likely to be noticeable to the untrained eye. If you really lust after a large diamond but have a limited budget, then this is probably the grade for you.

A colourless diamond is thought to be more valuable as it allows light to pass through the diamond better, resulting in a more sparkly diamond. However, a completely colourless diamond is hard to find, and you will find that a slight yellow, brown or grey tinge will not normally be noticeable to the naked eye.

N to Z : These will show a very noticeable yellow, brown or grey colour and aren’t very popular for wedding jewellery.

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Cut The cut of a diamond describes how diamond has been shaped and polished from its beginning form as a rough stone to its final gem proportions.

Diamond cutting is quite an art form, with many of the common shapes of diamonds needing to be cut to mathematical guidelines to ensure the diamond will refract maximum light from outside the top of the diamond, making it sparkle. Often a jeweller will have to make a compromise when cutting a diamond: it can be cut to maximise its brilliance or its size. Cutting a diamond to maximise its sparkle usually means that the diamond will end up smaller.

However, due to the relative importance of carat weight, many diamonds are often intentionally cut poorly to increase carat weight and this will greatly reduce the sparkle of the diamond. There is no quick and easy way to know if a diamond has been well cut. Instead, it will often just come down to whether you think that it sparkles like a diamond should! Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be afraid to compare a number of rings to see how each of the diamonds refracts and reflects the light.

The cut of a diamond is not the same as the shape of the diamond. Diamonds can also be cut into a variety of shapes, the most common of which are the following: Different cuts suit different fingers and hands better â&#x20AC;&#x201C; try on a few to see what suits you!

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Clarity Clarity is a measure of the internal defects of a diamond. Defects (called inclusions) can be caused by foreign material crystals or another diamond crystal appearing in the diamond or by structural imperfections such as tiny cracks. Whilst most inclusions do not affect the diamond’s performance or structural integrity, they can affect a diamond’s ability to reflect light.

Of all diamonds mined only about 20 percent have a clarity rating high enough for the diamond to be considered appropriate for use as a gemstone; the balance are relegated to industrial use. Of the 20 percent used as gemstones, a significant portion contains one or more visible inclusions.

The relative clarity (and sparkle!) of a diamond will be affected by the number, size, colour, relative location, orientation, and visibility of those Clarity Scale inclusions. Diamond clarity is rated on the International Clarity Grading VVS1 Very, very slightly included Scale (shown on the right).

VVS2 Very, very small inclusions ‘Eye-clean’ diamonds are those that do not have a visible inclusion. These are preferred and therefore are more expensive. It is possible however to hide visible inclusions under the setting in a piece of jewellery.

VS1

Very slightly included

VS2

Very small inclusions

SI1

Slightly included

SI2

Small inclusions

I1

Inclusions

Some imperfections will only be visible when viewed through a jeweller’s magnifying glass and again, you may find that an inclusion in your ring may not be noticeable to the naked eye.

I2

Noticeable inclusions

I3

Very noticeable inclusions

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Summary So which of the 4 Cs is the most important? This is completely subjective and depends entirely on what you want to see from the ring. If you want to have a big ‘rock’ on your finger, then the carat is going to be more important. To stick to a budget, you might have to get a diamond with more inclusions or not as good a colour. On the other hand, Most of you will be familiar with the movie if you want to know that your ‘Blood Diamond’. The movie was responsible diamond is as good a quality for making the public aware of the ethical as possible, you will need to issues surrounding diamond mining. Blood get a higher clarity rating diamonds (also called hot diamonds, and, most likely, will end up converted diamonds, conflict diamonds or with a smaller diamond. Most war diamonds) are diamonds usually mined people tend to compromise in African war zones. The stones were sold between the two. But in the to finance the buying of weapons in those end, you need to be happy countries, with the warlords and unethical with whatever you get as you diamond companies profiting. will be wearing it for many years to come!

In 1998 the United Nations officially recognised

ETHICAL DIAMONDS

Remember though, the diamond that you choose does not have to be the biggest or the best. Almost all of us have a limited budget to stick to and will have to compromise on one or more of the 4 Cs, whether it means getting a slightly smaller diamond or one that does not have as greater clarity or as pure a colour.

However, provided that you are happy with the diamond that you choose, not only will the diamond sparkle, but so will you!

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that the trade of blood diamonds was being used to fund war, and in 2000 the diamond industry met in Kimberley, South Africa to plan how the trade in these conflict diamonds could be stopped. The result was an agreement to adopt an international certification scheme, the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme.

The World Diamond Council estimates that since the Kimberley process was adopted only 1% of all diamonds traded are blood diamonds.

You can ensure your diamond is an ethical diamond by asking for a warranty assurance that the diamond is certified under the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme.

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nadia couture Redefining bridesmaids. nadia couture is Aucklandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premier bridesmaid shop.

Timeless design, quality fabrics and meticulous craftsmanship for the bride and your bridesmaids needs. nadiacouture garments range from soft silk chiffon to elegant formal satin, available in a wide range of colours and sizes.

To compliment the dresses, nadia couture has exquisite jewellery and beautiful evening bags, guaranteeing nadia remains a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;must-seeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; destination for your entire bridal party and every evening occasion.

271a Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby, Auckland customerservices@nadiacouture.co.nz

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Phone: 09 361 1205 www.nadiacouture.co.nz

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REAL BRIDES

www.jeremyhill.co.nz

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RELAXED BEAUTY This month we are fortunate to have a beautiful photo spread from Jeremy Hill. He has a lovely relaxed style that lets him capture the true emotion from the day. As you can see, he also has fantastic technique when processing his photos to ensure that they stand out from the rest - enjoy!

Melissa & Jonathon 22 January 2010 Devonport 49

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Hayley & David 20 December 2009

North Piha & Gracehill engaged

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William &21Hannah August 2010

Cassels & Bethells Beach

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Luke & Kennedy 6 March 2010 Murawai

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Our Place, Your Event Just 45 minutes south of Auckland you will find a little piece of the Mediterranean. Nestled in the northern slopes of the Bombay hills on more than 86 hectares and surrounded by 40,000 olive trees is the tranquil and beautiful Bracu.

Your wedding is a personal and intimate Occasion. The decision on your venue is often the first and most important one you will make as it becomes the heart of the celebration.

Simunovich Olive Estate provides privacy and seclusion which makes the property exceptional.

The options for delivering your perfect day are endless and we will work with you to ensure all your dreams are fulfilled.

There are a number of locations on the estate for you to choose from when it comes to having your ceremony and exchanging your vows.

Bracu Restaurant is a dining destination that ignites the senses and captivates the palate.

This excellence is carried through in every aspect of our food delivery.

Our Head Chef and Restaurant Manager lead a talented team who deliver culinary delights that will leave your guests talking about the experience long after your big day.

Modern, European cuisine with a hint of New Zealand influence uses the best of fresh, seasonal, local produce and products from the estate.

We invite you to join in our relaxing atmosphere of casual sophistication.

WEDDINGS ON THE ESTATE 49 Main Road, R D 1 B ombay, Auckland 2675, New Zealand Telephone +6 4 9 236 10 30, reservations@bracu.co.nz 77

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The Checklist Engaged to 9 months before Task

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Announce your engagement, including notices in the newspaper Organise for your families to meet, if they haven’t done so already Choose your bridesmaids, groomsmen, MC, flower girls, page boys Discuss the type of wedding you want, including budget Compile a draft guest list (this will help determine venue size) Choose venues for the ceremony and reception Set the date and time for the wedding Choose and book the following: • Photographer • Videographer • Entertainment • Caterer • Florist • Transport • Wedding Co-ordinator • Celebrant Start thinking about your dress (you may need to book a dressmaker) Consider purchasing wedding insurance to cover those things that are out of your control which may result in the wedding being postponed or cancelled Have an engagement party

9 months before Task

Order your wedding dress Choose your accessories: veil, jewellery, underwear, shoes and so on Choose the attire for the rest of the wedding party as applicable: • Groom • Bridesmaids • Groomsmen • Flower girls • Page boys Select stationery including: • Invitations

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Task

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• Thank you cards/notes • Place name cards • RSVP cards • Seating plan • Envelopes Book a calligrapher Send out save-the-date cards Contact rental companies to hire equipment, marquees, tables, etc Organise gift registry Start thinking about your honeymoon

6 months before Task

Order bridesmaids’ dresses Order/book the groom’s and groomsmen’s suits Help your mother and mother-in-law with their outfits Discuss your beauty regime with your beauty therapist Book in for marriage preparation course if needed Decide on and order your wedding cake Book your accommodation for the wedding night Investigate accommodation options for out of town guests Choose and purchase your wedding rings Make any honeymoon reservations

4 months before Task

Book hairdresser and make-up artist Order favours Discuss menu options with caterer/venue, including wine selection Organise entertainment if you are having children at the reception Speak with the celebrant or minister and decide on an order of service, responsibilities, speech making, readings, etc. Set your rehearsal date Let people know if they will be making a speech, doing a reading, etc Purchase wedding gifts for each other and the wedding party Organise time off work for your honeymoon Renew passports if necessary!

2 months before Task

Post invitations Write your vows Have your hair and makeup trials (remember to take your veil etc)

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Organise dancing lessons for the first dance Organise your hen’s and buck’s nights with the wedding party Confirm: • Flowers with florist – do they fit with the theme, colours, dresses • Menu with caterer • Accommodation for yourselves and your guests Organise any legal work, for example, pre-nuptial agreements, wills

1 month before Task

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Apply for your marriage licence Confirm and finalise final guest numbers Make a seating plan (allow time for disagreements!)

Have your dress fittings Organise bridal party’s final fittings (including accessories) Confirm groom’s and groomsmen’s outfits are ready Write your speech Confirm honeymoon accommodation and flight bookings Organise a house-sitter for while you are on honeymoon

2 weeks before Task

Confirm with everyone that you have booked for your wedding, advise final numbers and provide a emergency contact number to: • Venue • Caterer • Celebrant/Minister • Photographer • Videographer • Entertainment • Florist • Cake maker • Stationery • Car hire company • Hairdresser • Makeup artist • Favours • Hire company Make a list of everything that needs to be set up and/or taken to the ceremony and reception Have your final dress fitting including accessories. Take your chief bridesmaid so she knows how to how to attach your train etc.

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Make sure the bridesmaids have their dresses, footwear and accessories Have your final haircut and colour before the wedding Make sure the groom has his hair cut Finalise seating plan for reception Write place cards Practise walking around in your wedding shoes Have hen’s night and buck’s night

1 week before Task

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Pick up your wedding dress and hang it in a safe place Wedding rehearsal (you may like to give the bridal party their gifts then) Pick up hire items, including groom’s and groomsmen’s attire Confirm honeymoon arrangements Pack for honeymoon Have your engagement ring professionally cleaned Pack an emergency kit for the day Final check on arrangements and plan for the day: • Who has the rings?

• Have you paid entertainers etc ahead of time or do you need to take money?

• Who is taking the gifts home after the wedding?

• Who is dry-cleaning your dress the next day?

• Who is returning the suits?

• Make sure the bridal party are aware of their roles • Give a list of important contacts to a trusted family member or friend (can be the chief bridesmaid or the mother of the bride)

The day before Task

Relax and spend some quality time on your own!

Present each other with gifts and remind each other why you love the other Give wedding bands to the best man and/or chief bridesmaid to hold during the ceremony

The big day Enjoy yourself!

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Next Issue out 1 November

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