Q&A Fashion and beauty Local experts offer advice on how to look your big-day best https://unsplash.com/@laurenjean THREE-STEP SKIN SAVER I want my skin to look its best on my wedding day. Is there a simple, fussfree routine that can help me achieve this? When it comes to skincare, simple routines often deliver the best results. By choosing products with essential ingredients that support skin health, you can achieve your healthiest, most radiant complexion just in time for your wedding day. Step one is cleansing! A gentle foaming cleanser is always a reliable choice, perfect for daily use, both morning and night. It effectively removes dirt, oil and impurities from the skin. For those seeking an added boost of hydration and radiance, a cleansing balm is an excellent alternative, offering deep nourishment while still providing a thorough cleanse. Next up is a serum, essential for boosting your skin’s health. Its lightweight consistency allows them to absorb deeply, strengthening the skin from within. I always recommend a vitamin C serum; it brightens the complexion, boosts collagen production and helps reduce signs of ageing. With so many benefits packed into a single bottle, it’s always my top choice! After cleansing and applying your serum, it’s time to apply a moisturiser, a barrier to seal in all those benefits. A hydrating moisturiser with hyaluronic acid is a fantastic option as it boosts your skin’s water levels, keeps the skin smooth and improves its overall texture! By following these steps day and night, you can ensure flawless, photo-ready skin for your special day! Phoebe Valentine | Bridal by Phoebe Valentine www.phoebevalentine.com RING OF CHANGES My husband has proposed, and we’re picking out an engagement ring together; what advice can you share for picking the right diamond? Consider personal style and budget when selecting a diamond colour for your engagement ring. Diamonds are graded from D (colourless) to Z (light yellow). Colourless diamonds are highly prized, but near-colourless diamonds (G-J) can offer excellent value without sacrificing beauty. The diamond’s shape or cut impacts your choice of colour and clarity. Step cuts, like emeralds, require better clarity because inclusions are more visible. Sparkly cuts, such as round or oval, can hide inclusions but may appear more yellow than step cuts. The choice of metal also plays a significant role in how a diamond’s colour is perceived. Warmer metals like yellow or rose gold can enhance the look of lower-colour diamonds. In contrast, white metals like platinum or white gold highlight the diamond’s true colour, making it essential to opt for highercolour grades. Your ideal diamond colour depends on personal preference, your chosen setting and the diamond’s cut. To make an informed decision, consider all factors contributing to your dream engagement ring. Poppy Elder | Poppy Elder Fine Jewellery www.poppyelder.com 66
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