WITH THIS RING We’re newly engaged, what’s the process for choosing a sustainable engagement ring and wedding bands? Meet the expert: Tom Reid is a diamond and jewellery consultant at Lover’s Rock Ltd with a showroom in Watlington, South Oxfordshire. Lover’s Rock Ltd specialise in custom-made wedding, engagement and eternity rings. They also sell vintage pieces and their collection uses only the finest natural diamonds and gemstones with up to 75% off the high street prices. Tom says: With regards to timings of when to buy a wedding ring, I usually recommend six months before the big day. However, since the pandemic and now with the conflict in Ukraine, which has pushed the price of precious metals and diamonds and gemstones up dramatically, customers are making purchases up to 18 months in advance to avoid future increases, and in some cases, they choose to pay through interest-free finance which I offer. There has also been a trend towards lab-grown diamonds due to the ethical aspect and the savings involved. The larger the diamond and the higher quality of the stone, the bigger the saving. Lab-grown diamonds allow you to opt for an exceptionally high-quality choice that wouldn’t be achievable for most people. For example, a 1-carat lab-grown diamond engagement ring for £4,000 would see the natural version costing in the region of £20,000. The greater the carat weight, the higher quality of the diamond and the bigger the saving. Appearance-wise, there’s no difference between natural and lab-grown stones, they’re real diamonds made by man rather than naturally through the earth. Lover’s Rock Ltd, 03330 064 411, www.loversrockdiamonds.co.uk ALL MADE UP Which make-up and hair looks will be popular for autumnal weddings? Meet the expert: Sian McCauley is a professional make-up artist and hair stylist based in Berkshire with more than 13 years of experience working in weddings, special events, television and media. She also offers aesthetics and beauty services including lashes and brows. Sian says: This summer has seen an explosion of pink and rose gold make-up shades teamed with natural-looking glowing skin, blush cheeks, and half-up, half-down hairstyles. As autumn closes in, many of my bridal trials have transitioned to using more earthy tones with softly smoked eye make-up or a minimal and natural feel. Brows are also back, where naturally defined and fluffy have been the go-to trend. The half-up, half-down hairstyle has been a big hit for autumn brides consisting of braids, twists or an elegant ponytail. A trial is the best time to experiment with any of these hair and make-up styles to find what works best for your features. Sian McCauley Cosmetics, 07960 563 937, www.sianmccauley.com Turn to page 15 to take advantage of our exclusive offer with Sian. 65 EXPERT ADVICE
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