An Essex Wedding - Page number 71 - November/December 2021 (Issue 101)

BY CINDY & VIOLA Sara Anthony says... The birth of By Cindy & Viola came at a time that was, and still is, difficult for the UK and the World and was established in August 2020. With the concept of high quality, every day, standout jewellery, my design vision was to make the customer feel that they are wearing a luxury piece that feels unique to them in their day-to-day life. It’s been challenging to launch a new venture, however with a lot of patience and perseverance I got there. I’ve always had a passion and keen interest in fashion and particularly accessories, but what sparked the interest in all things jewellery was when I got engaged. I became fascinated with the world of gold and semi-precious/precious stones. I attended jewellery classes in London (pre-Covid) which helped gain a further insight, giving me the confidence to create By Cindy & Viola. I began thinking of what I would want to wear day to day, what size of jewellery, how would I want it to be seen; not too small that you feel you are not wearing anything but then not so big that it’s overwhelming. It was about creating that right balance, and to be able to incorporate designs that make women feel they are wearing affordable luxury. I decided that gold plated with semi-precious stones was the direction I wanted to take the designs. The design process began on a few pieces to start a collection. This evolved into the Stars & Stones collection, to build a brand I want to be known for a particular piece. I believe women like their jewellery to be personal and therefore I made the decision that this collection would be a great start. So, to begin this journey the double pendant constellation and birthstone necklace was launched in February 2021. After making the design decisions back in August 2020 the next step was to begin research into studios to create my designs. Top of the list, and the most important, was sustainable materials and fair trade. I was excited to find the right studio in Jaipur, India; so a relationship began and By Cindy & Viola came to life. What does the future hold? I see the Stars & Stones collection growing with the addition of a bracelet, and I intend to branch out with different collections adding new design pieces and working closely with the studio in India. What’s your most popular product? As previously mentioned this is a double pendant necklace that has your personal zodiac and birthstone. We will be launching the bracelets by the end of 2021. With the necklace being such a personal piece we feel these are not only special to wear for a bride, but what a unique gift for the bridesmaids? What are the key trends in 2022 for jewellery/accessories? The key trends for 2022 are going to be much like they are today, personal jewellery whether that be initials, name plate, a star sign or a birthstone, they seem to be very high in consumer demand. The 1970s styles are having a come back with charm bracelets and key materials such as shells and pearls. The bigger the better also! With fashion having quite a casual feel to it with people working from home, you can dress a boring t-shirt with a nice chunky necklace to look lovely on that zoom call. What top tip do you have for choosing how to accessorise your big-day look? To go personal with your jewellery is the only way. To wear a piece that means something, whether that is new and bought with a meaning or something old that is borrowed or passed down. Check out https://bycindyandviola.co.uk AFFINITY FINE JEWELLERS Lauren Fossett says... My husband, Andy, and I started Affinity Fine Jewellers at the beginning of 2021. After years of experience in the jewellery trade we found a new-found love and passion for bridal jewellery. Not only does Affinity offer traditional plain and diamond-set wedding bands, the business specialises in bespoke shaped-to-fit wedding rings and bridal jewellery. What’s your most popular product? The most popular product for us is our bespoke shaped ring service. We offer a unique process which means the customer never has to be without their engagement ring. We will create a replica and design your wedding ring to exact requirements. The customer will receive images of their design up against the replica of their engagement ring and can order a resin version of their design to test the fit and make sure they are happy. What are the key trends in 2022 for jewellery/accessories? When it comes to bridal jewellery, we feel like drop earrings will make a comeback. They are the perfect accessory and look great with hair up or down. They can be simple or you can make a real statement with them. Pearls are also a great accessory, not just incorperate into jewellery but they make a great addition to your big-day hairstyle too. What top tip do you have for choosing how to accessorise your big-day look? My top tip would be to keep it simple and timeless. I’d also say to think about your dress; if it’s highly detailed then keep it simple, if your dress is plain and classic then you can go for a statement piece. Check out www.affinityjewellers.co.uk JEWELLERY & ACCESSORIES 71