1. Play with Perspectives: Unconventional Angles for Dramatic Shots

One of the easiest ways to make your wedding photos stand out is to experiment with perspectives. Shooting from different angles can add depth and interest to your images. Instead of always shooting at eye level, try getting low to the ground or climbing to a higher vantage point. These unusual angles can create dramatic and visually striking photos. For example, capturing the couple from a low angle as they kiss under a majestic tree can make them look larger-than-life. Similarly, a high-angle shot of the entire wedding party can showcase the scale and beauty of the venue. Always be on the lookout for new perspectives to keep your shots fresh and exciting.

2. Incorporate Reflections: Using Mirrors and Water for Unique Images

Reflections can add a magical quality to wedding photos, creating a sense of symmetry and depth. Use mirrors, glass surfaces, or even water to capture reflective shots that stand out. Imagine photographing the bride as she looks into a mirror, with her reflection perfectly framed within the shot. This technique can add a layer of elegance and artistry to your photos. Water reflections work beautifully for outdoor weddings. Position the couple near a pond or fountain to capture their reflection in the water, adding a serene and romantic touch to the image. The key is to find the right surfaces and angles to make reflections work for you. Visit clevelandweddingphotographer.com and check out their portfolio for more inspiration on incorporating reflections creatively.

3. Light and Shadows: Harnessing Natural Light for Dramatic Effects

Lighting is one of the most crucial elements in photography, and knowing how to play with light and shadows can transform ordinary shots into extraordinary ones. Natural light can be your best friend, especially during the golden hour – the period shortly after sunrise or before sunset when the light is soft and warm. Use this time to capture the couple in backlit shots that create a halo effect around them. Shadows, too, can add a dramatic flair. Position the couple so that their shadows become part of the composition, creating interesting patterns and contrasts. Experiment with different lighting conditions to find the perfect balance and mood for each shot.

4. Candid Moments: Capturing Authentic Emotions

Posed shots have their place in wedding photography, but candid moments often tell the most compelling stories. Keep your camera ready to capture the spontaneous, unscripted moments that happen throughout the day. The laughter shared between the bride and her bridesmaids, the tearful hug between the groom and his father, or the joyful chaos of kids dancing at the reception – these are the moments that bring a wedding album to life. To get the best candid shots, blend into the background and observe without interrupting. Be patient and ready to click at the perfect moment. These authentic emotions will resonate with couples and their families for years to come.

5. Creative Use of Props: Adding Fun and Personality

Props can add a fun and personalized touch to wedding photos, making them more memorable and unique. Consider incorporating items that reflect the couple’s interests or the theme of the wedding. For instance, if the couple loves traveling, use vintage suitcases or globes as props. For a rustic wedding, wooden signs, lanterns, or even a classic car can enhance the visual appeal of the photos. Encourage the couple to interact with the props in playful and creative ways. Props not only add visual interest but also help the couple feel more relaxed and engaged during the shoot, resulting in more natural and enjoyable photos.

6. Double Exposure: Merging Moments for Artistic Flair

Double exposure photography involves blending two images into one, creating a surreal and artistic effect. This technique can be particularly striking in wedding photography. For example, you can merge a portrait of the couple with a scenic background from their wedding venue, such as a forest or a cityscape. Another idea is to combine a close-up of the couple’s faces with a delicate shot of their hands holding flowers. To achieve the best results, use a tripod to keep your images aligned and experiment with different opacity levels in post-processing. Double exposure shots can add a dreamy, ethereal quality to your wedding album, making the photos stand out as works of art.

7. Drone Photography: Capturing the Day from Above

Drone photography offers a unique perspective that can elevate wedding photos to new heights—literally. Aerial shots can capture the grandeur of the wedding venue, the layout of outdoor ceremonies, and stunning landscape views. Drones are perfect for group shots, capturing the entire wedding party and guests in a single frame. They can also follow the couple as they walk down the aisle or during their first dance, adding a cinematic quality to the photos. When using a drone, ensure you have the necessary permissions and follow safety guidelines to avoid any disruptions. Aerial shots provide a breathtaking overview that traditional photography cannot achieve.

8. Black and White Photography: Timeless Elegance

Black and white photography can bring a timeless and elegant touch to wedding photos. Stripping away color allows you to focus on the emotions and details within each frame. It’s particularly effective for capturing intense, emotional moments like the couple’s first look, vows, or the father-daughter dance. The contrast and texture in black and white photos can highlight the intricate details of the wedding attire and décor. When shooting in black and white, pay extra attention to lighting and composition, as these elements become even more critical without the distraction of color. Mixing a few black and white shots with color photos can add variety and sophistication to your wedding album.

Conclusion

Creative wedding photography is all about thinking outside the box and finding new ways to tell a couple’s unique love story. By experimenting with perspectives, incorporating reflections, playing with light and shadows, capturing candid moments, using props, exploring double exposure, employing drone photography, shooting in black and white, creating silhouettes, and adopting a photojournalistic style, photographers can create stunning and memorable wedding albums. Each technique adds a different layer of artistry and emotion, ensuring the photos stand out and become cherished keepsakes for years to come. Whether you’re a photographer or a couple planning your wedding, these creative ideas can help you capture the magic and beauty of the big day in a way that truly reflects your love story.

Photo Credit

Photo by Nathan Dumlao on Unsplash

Guest Author Bio
Valencia Jasira

Valencia Jasira is a Senior Content Writer with more than 15 years of research experience in the fields of health and the environment. Her prolific research has significantly influenced Health and Environment Issues, and she regularly advises on health practices.

Your Partner’s Style and Preferences

As the saying goes, “diamonds are a girl’s best friend”. But not all diamonds are created equal—each one is unique in its cut, clarity, carat weight, and color. When selecting an engagement ring, it’s important to consider your partner’s personal style and preferences. Does she prefer classic and timeless designs, or does she lean towards more modern and unique styles? Is she a fan of vintage pieces or does she prefer minimalist designs? Taking the time to understand your partner’s taste will help you choose an engagement ring that reflects her personality and makes her feel special.

The 4 Cs: Cut, Clarity, Carat Weight and Color

The 4 Cs are the universal standards for evaluating a diamond’s quality and value. They refer to the Cut, Clarity, Carat Weight, and Color of a diamond. Each C plays a crucial role in determining the overall beauty and worth of a diamond. It’s essential to educate yourself on these aspects before making your purchase, as they can greatly impact the price and appearance of the diamond. Consider consulting a reputable jeweler to help you understand the 4 Cs and select the best diamond for your budget and needs.

Talking to a jeweler about the 4 Cs can be incredibly helpful in your search for the perfect engagement ring. Not only do they have expertise and knowledge on diamonds, but they can also provide you with personalized recommendations based on your partner’s style and preferences. They will work with you to find a balance between the 4 Cs that fits within your budget without compromising on the quality and beauty of the diamond. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and trust their professional advice—after all, they want you to walk away with a ring that will make your partner say “yes” with a big smile!

Setting and Metal

Don’t forget to consider the setting and metal of the engagement ring. The setting refers to how the diamond is positioned on the band, while the metal refers to what the band is made of. There are various options for both setting and metal, each with their own unique qualities and price points.

Some popular settings include prong, bezel, and pave, while common metals include gold, platinum, and silver. Take your partner’s lifestyle into consideration when choosing a setting and metal—for example, if she has an active lifestyle or works with her hands, a low-profile setting and durable metal may be a better choice.

Budget

An engagement ring is more than just a piece of jewelry—it’s a symbol of your love and commitment. Be sure to set a budget that you’re comfortable with before starting your search. While the 4 Cs and setting can greatly impact the price, there are also other factors to consider such as the brand and jeweler. Don’t forget to do your research and shop around to find the best quality and value for your budget. Remember, the price of an engagement ring doesn’t define its worth—it’s the love and sentiment behind it that truly matters.

Certificate of Authenticity

When purchasing a diamond, always make sure to ask for a certificate of authenticity. This document, also known as a diamond grading report, provides an unbiased assessment of the diamond’s 4 Cs and other characteristics. It serves as proof of the diamond’s quality and ensures that you’re getting what you paid for. Certificates are typically issued by reputable gemological laboratories such as GIA or AGS.

Personalization and Customization

Don’t be afraid to add a personal touch to your engagement ring. Many jewelers offer the option for customization or even creating a one-of-a-kind design. Whether it’s adding an engraving or incorporating a special gemstone, personalization can make the ring even more meaningful and unique to your relationship.

If you’re considering a more personalized engagement ring, consider finding some custom engagement rings for sale. Try to find a reputable and experienced jeweler who specializes in customization. Look for references from friends or family members who have recently purchased custom rings, or do some research online to read reviews and compare different jewelers’ portfolios. Communicate clearly with the jeweler about your vision and budget so they can create a design that exceeds your expectations. Remember, a great custom ring maker will work with you to bring your dream ring to life and make it a treasured piece for years to come.

With these essential considerations in mind, you’re now ready to embark on your journey of finding the perfect engagement ring. Remember, this is a once-in-a-lifetime purchase that symbolizes your love and commitment, so take your time and enjoy the process. Happy shopping!

Photo Credit

Photo by Kathrine Birch on Pexels

Guest Author Bio
Dixie Somers

Dixie Somers is a freelance writer who loves to write about business, health and women’s interests. She lives in Arizona with her husband and three beautiful daughters. You can find her on X and Facebook.

Over the years, many engaged couples have resorted to picking between only two or three ring metals for their band. However, there are more options than that. Outside of style, the engagement ring metal type is picked based on other factors such as price, budget, and appearance.

If you would like a less subtle ring and not something easily found in any jewelry store, you can design your ring, from the band to the centerpiece stone. For some inspiration, see a selection of custom diamond engagement rings here.

Here are the five most popular options to consider when choosing the engagement ring metal type.

Yellow Gold

Yellow gold is a classic choice for many engaged couples. The metal offers different karats and might leave you unsure which alloy combination ratio is best for you. Yellow gold has a warm yellowish look.

Although 24-karat gold is the purest form of gold, it is not that resistant. A 60/40 combination is a form of 14-karat gold that works well. If you want to save on the band to go bigger on the stone, the 14-karat gold will be perfect.

White Gold

White gold has a similar color to sterling silver and platinum. Many engaged couples often opt for sterling silver when looking for a lighter tint band; however, if you are in search of something more durable than silver but do not want to break the bank on platinum, white gold will likely be your best fit.

White gold is made of pure gold, palladium, and silver or copper, nickel, or zinc. Including rhodium plating in that mixture will improve the durability and whiteness of the band.

Rose Gold

Rose gold engagement ring bands are the most popular type of colored gold. The charming blush hue makes the band trendier and more attractive to modern brides. Due to its appealing shade, this metal goes well with both diamonds and other lightly colored gemstones such as moonstone and quartz.

Platinum

The appearance of platinum is a soft white hue, similar to sterling silver and white gold. Platinum is more durable and 30 times rarer than gold, making the metal more expensive.

Platinum jewelry has purity between 90% and 95%. Due to the high quality and hardness, the details of intricate engravings or embellishment on platinum ring bands often look sharper and more precise.

Sterling Silver

Sterling silver is the most popular white-colored metal usually amongst young couples, as the metal is the most affordable of the three white metals. However, the drawback of sterling silver is that the metal is less durable and less strong than its white-hue counterparts.

Like gold, pure silver is soft and works well in jewelry. Jewelry makers can enhance the strength of sterling silver by combining it with other metals such as copper. Sterling silver rings must contain at least 92.5% pure silver, and hence it is often stamped as .925.

Not only are engaged couples spoiled for choice when it comes to ring gemstones, but they also have a wide range of options when it comes to the ring’s metal band.

Photo Credit

Photo is from pixabay

Guest Author Bio
John Moran

John Moran is an American who enjoys the fine art of living well. His interests include anything wine, food or nature related especially when enjoyed with friends and family.

583 Park Avenue

583 Park Avenue

The event venue, 583 Park Avenue, is becoming increasingly popular among New Yorkers. The breath-taking venue values glamour and sophistication equally with functionality. Located on Park Avenue and 63rd Street, the event space is a landmark building that has been recently restored and made available for private events (it was originally built in 1923).

Aesthetically, the New York venue is reminiscent of a bygone era with its towering white pillars in front. In regards to service, 583 Park Avenue is unparalleled. The planning process is incredibly efficient and enjoyable in order to ensure couples the wedding of their dreams. Moreover, their ballroom can accommodate 700 seated, easily surpassing what is needed to safely welcome 200 guests socially distanced. The real testament to this venue’s charm is its frequent mention in NY Times wedding announcements, such as the wedding of Sarah Wolff and Jeremy Wien. This is truly a space where memories for a lifetime can be made.

The New York Public Library

Inside New York Public Library

For those who desire a wedding ceremony that embodies the grandeur and sophistication in classic New York style, The New York Public Library is as classic as you can get. With sky-high ceilings, marble columns, and a pair of welcoming staircases (both inside and out), this iconic spot is truly one-of-a-kind and a transformable space for your dream wedding. It’s also beyond practical as the building has multiple event spaces, making it easy for guests to practice social distancing as well as migrate from one space to the other. Moreover, the various rooms allow for all your creative wedding dreams to flourish as you can cultivate a different vibe in each room.

As far as specifics, this venue can host 250 people seated (750 standing). Additionally, all event fees support the Library’s indispensable collections, services, and programs. The New York Public Library lends any wedding a sense of grandeur and distinction as it is a quintessential New York City icon. It truly should be considered by any engaged couple looking to wed in the area.

The Rainbow Room

Rainbow Room

The Rainbow Room has reigned as a beacon of style and sophistication since its opening in 1934. This dazzling Manhattan hotspot is located on the 65th floor of 30 Rockefeller Plaza and was re-opened last October after renovations that had been ongoing since 2014. However, all the signature design elements have been preserved, with every detail informed and inspired by New York’s timelessness and architecture. The capacity of the Room has not been altered with renovations as it still seats 300, allowing for approximately 150 guests to comfortably social distance.

The Rainbow Room’s iconic domed ceiling and revolving dance floor serve as the centerpiece of this venue, while magnificent crystal wall sconces and brass railings enhance the grandeur of the room. There is also a famous crystal chandelier that is so magnificent it has often been compared to the night’s sky as all the room’s lights bounce off the crystal giving the illusion of the stars. Moreover, this venue is unique in that the compelling sights are not only inside the building but also as you look out the ceiling to floor windows, The Rainbow Room has one of the best views of the New York City skyline. For those New Yorkers who cherish a good view of their city, this is the venue for you.

The Frick Collection

The Frick Collection

Located in east Midtown, The Frick Collection is an internationally recognized museum and research center for its distinguished Old Master paintings and outstanding examples of European sculpture. While many New York City venues of this caliber feel grand, expansive, and more fitting for a large guest list, this unique space provides an elegant yet intimate setting for any ceremony and reception. With a capacity of 180, the space still allows for social distancing, just on a smaller scale as there are fewer areas for mingling compared to the previous venues (a perk for some couples who would prefer to see all their loved ones in one space).

What truly sets The Frick Collection apart from other event spaces is the way it almost transports you and your guests back in time as its decorative art pieces and architecture evoke a sense of glamour from New York’s Gilded Age. The level of detail you will be surrounded by is unmatched and it gives any wedding a unique charm that is tough to beat.

The Frick Collection is currently closed for renovations but is expected to reopen shortly. The renovations are the first to be done to the building since the 1930s but are minor and are only being done to continue to have a space to safely honor the history of the site.

The Natural History Museum

New York Natural History Museum

A unique and often forgotten venue choice is another NYC landmark, the Natural History Museum. This is an elegant option for a beautiful wedding and/or reception. Prior to the pandemic, this venue was ideal for couples with a long guest list, as the spacious building has the capacity to host over 3,000 people during the reception. Although this is not possible due to the Governor’s 150 person cap, this space is excellent for those prioritizing social distancing as the building provides over 2 million square feet.

A wedding ceremony and reception in a museum is definitely one for the books and should be considered by any couple who enjoys aweing their loved ones as your guests can enjoy cocktails in the grand lobby—with a dinosaur as the room’s centerpiece—and you can dine under a 94ft blue whale. This venue really helps create memories for a lifetime.

Photo Credits

583 Park Avenue – Wikimedia Creative Commons

New York Public Library by Oneisha Lee on Unsplash

Rainbow Room – Wikimedia Creative Commons

The Frick Collection – Paulo O on Flickr

New York Natural History Museum by Aditya Vyas on Unsplash

Guest Author Bio
Jessica Leslie

Jess Leslie is a blogger and marketing coordinator. She majored in English at Occidental College and enjoys writing about all things entertainment and pop-culture-related.

Blog / Website: Happy Hobbyists

You might have your own ideas about what makes a great party, but remember that this party isn’t for you. An essential factor in determining how to plan the ultimate bachelorette party is considering what the bachelorette herself wants. Where does she want to go? What activities does she enjoy? What are her favorite foods? Don’t be afraid to sit down in-person and ask for her input. It might spoil the surprise somewhat, but it guarantees your party will be the best it can be.

At the same time, the bachelorette should be able to sit back and not have to worry about the little details. Talk to her about what she wants, but don’t drag her into being a co-planner. Take initiative. Ask the other partiers to pitch in and assign everyone their own tasks and responsibilities. One person can be in charge of making reservations while another person arranges for entertainment. Pool your resources.

Pick the perfect place and time

Location, location, location! The most important part of a destination bachelorette party, other than the bachelorette, is the destination. Try to find a party spot that the bride-to-be has always wanted to visit or which lends itself to the kinds of activities she enjoys. If she likes to have fun in the sun, consider somewhere like Tampa. If she’s dazzled by celebrity, check out Los Angeles.

Timing also plays an important role. For instance, if the wedding is set for late February/early March, why not have the bachelorette party in Louisiana during Mardi Gras, when every inch of New Orleans real estate is teeming with revelers? Look at the calendar and see if there are any special events happening around the time of your party that might help propel your festivities to a higher level.

Eat, drink, and be responsible

You can’t have fun on an empty stomach and you can’t have a great party without some tasty adult beverages. Figure out how you’re going to meet those needs: Planning on a fancy restaurant dinner in New York City followed by a night out clubbing? Or do you want to rent a private beach in Honolulu and hire your own caterers and bar staff? Answering these questions months in advance will give you a much-needed head-start in nailing down a budget.

One thing to keep in mind that often gets overlooked is safety. No one wants to be told to “be responsible” at a bachelorette party, but no one wants to get into a mess they’ll regret either. If you’re planning to bar hop, instead of taking your own car or an Uber, get a limo for the night so you can have a driver who you know will keep you safe. Choose a couple of friends who are willing to forgo drinking in favor of keeping order when things get chaotic. A good bachelorette party should be a night the bride will always remember, not one she wants to forget.

Photo Credit

Photo is Wikimedia creative commons

Guest Author Bio
Michael R.

Michael R. has been an SEO content writer since 2018. He has contributed to digital marketing and business-related articles that have appeared in Forbes, Inc., and various other publications. Outside of work, he enjoys reading and playing video games.  

There’s a reason why people refer to weddings as the couple’s “Big Day;” it’s one of the most important events you’ll ever experience. Getting married will irrevocably change your world, as you commit to love, cherish, and support each another in a lifelong relationship. It’s the joining of two becoming one, the start of a shared journey towards a deeper phase of your life.

In the years and decades that follow, so much is going to change. You’re going to get old and wrinkly, go through many adventures, highs and lows, and challenges and celebrations together. The people, places, fashions and culture around you will undergo incredible, unpredictable transformations. When you look back to the day you got married, you’ll be peering into a very different window of time. This is the beauty of wedding photo albums; they offer a timeless snapshot into a unique moment in your personal history.

Wedding albums anchor all of those crazy feelings of happiness, joy, nervousness and excitement that you felt on the day. And they’re not just an artefact for your own enjoyment; wedding albums are also a gorgeous heirloom to share with your friends and family. For any children who didn’t exist at the time the photos were taken, it gives them a deeper sense of their family’s history (and it lets them know that you and your significant other really did look young once, too.)

Wedding albums chronicle one of the most meaningful events in your whole life. At the end of the day, when the experience is over, the years fly by, children are born, grow up, and eventually move out and get married themselves, all that really remains of that special time is the stories we have to share and the photos taken on that momentous day. Quality wedding photo books allow you to share the story of your big day with heart-warming clarity for countless years to come.

A Physical Artefact You Can Hold in Your Hands

With the accessibility and ease of sharing digital photos, you might be thinking there’s no point in getting a wedding album made. However, (contrary to popular assumption) digital files are subject to the effects of time (and unfortunate circumstances.) The mediums that the photos are stored on, for example CDs and DVDs, will become obsolete over time. Physical hardware storing your files can also get physically broken or lost; this means that if your hard drive crashes for whatever reason, your photos may be lost forever.

Furthermore, each time a photo is edited or changed using software it creates a greater potential for a file error. So, only having digital photos of your wedding day stored in the cloud may not be as permanent as you think.

It’s important to know that wedding photographers don’t necessarily create wedding albums. They have enough things to deal with in their profession, and putting together a beautiful wedding album is another set of skills entirely. While photographers will provide you with digital photos that you can plaster over social media, it’s not the same as having a beautiful, tangible artefact that you can get out at family events.

Investing in a quality wedding photo book from a reputable, experienced company that specialises in making them will offer you a wide variety of choices. How about luxury hardcover photo books with covers made from exquisite Italian fabric? And of course there are different paper types to suit your distinguished tastes.

Tips on Creating a Beautiful Wedding Book

Organise Your Photos

A decent wedding photographer will take thousands, if not tens of thousands of snaps on the day. Now obviously, you can’t put all of them into your wedding album, so you will need to organize them. Photo albums will have somewhere between 46 and 118 pages, so you’ll need to whittle down your selection to the absolute best of the best. Obviously this will take time and patience, but this can be a fun task for you and your significant other to enjoy when spending quality time together.

Start by getting rid of photos you immediately don’t like, like any ones that were badly taken, blurry shots, (or the photos where you really don’t like how you look.) Then you’ll need to further refine your selection. You can arrange them into folders, for example dividing them into different parts of the day that are arranged chronologically, or different categories as you see fit, such as “yeses” and “maybes.” You’ll likely have several shots of almost identical moments, and it’s helpful to eliminate your least favourite versions of them.

Be Inclusive

You’ll also want to be mindful of including the photos of specific wedding guests to go into your physical photo album. Make sure all your nearest and dearest friends, family and colleagues show up so their presence is recorded for posterity. When you look back, you’ll be grateful for all the people who were with you on the big day that helped to make it so special.

Capture the Magic Moments

There are so many possibilities of different shots that can be captured, and so many special moments. Of course there are the obvious moments that you’ll want to have immortalised in your photo album, like the wedding vows, your first kiss, the throwing of the bouquet, the throwing of confetti as you leave the ceremony, and your first dance at the wedding reception. Then you’ll also want the beautiful group photos of the newlyweds with family and friends.

While all these things are nice, they’re also very clichéd, and you might want to consider breaking up your photo album with less conventional images, such as shots of the decorated tables and plates at the wedding reception before people sit down, or close ups of bouquets and flowers.

It can also make for some truly special photography when more natural shots are captured of people who weren’t looking at the camera and posing, or the tears of happiness on the faces of the bride’s father. Those rare and unscripted moments sometimes unintentionally become some of the most touching photographs of the whole day.

Wedding Photo Albums Are a Priceless Treasure

You’ve likely spent a considerable amount of money so you can have the most gorgeous wedding photos you can afford. It makes a lot of sense to spend just a little bit more to have these photos stunningly printed, presented and bound in a beautiful book that will take up a very special place on your bookshelf and in your heart.

Photo Credits

The photos in this article are sourced from Pexels

Guest Author Bio
Sergio Arboledas

Sergio Arboledas is Digital Marketing manager for digital agency MintTwist. Sergio has 6 years digital marketing experience working across advertising production, wedding, photo books, finance and education.

An engagement ring is the ultimate statement jewellery piece – one that tells a story and acts as an eternal promise. Therefore, when it comes to choosing the perfect design for the special person in your life, it is important to base your decision not only on style and beauty, but the message it relays.

Proposing is the easy part. You already know this is the person you want to spend eternity with and making it official is going to mark one of the happiest days of your life. Choosing a ring that you and your partner will be looking at for the rest of your lives, however, is a whole other story. With this guide we hope to ensure that, the big ring-selection-day will turn into just as much of a joyous occasion as every other part of the proposal-planning, instead of an indecisive affair.

Selection of engagement rings featuring trilogy, halo and solitaire styles.

Cuts, Styles & Precious Stones

Entering a jewellery shop and coming to terms with the vast range of styles, cuts and precious stones can be overwhelming to say the least – especially for the inexperienced. Prior to familiarizing yourself with the different cuts, visualize your better half and consider their personal style. Are they all about the subtle accents or the chunky and loud variety of jewellery? Do they wear jewellery daily or will this be the first ring you’ll have ever seen them wear? These are important questions to ask yourself before you even begin to study the plethora of designs available to you.

The most popular choices for engagement rings are diamonds and other precious stones such as the ruby, sapphire or emerald, depending on the available budget. These types of rings are available in a variety of cuts, materials and stone settings, usually consisting of one main, centrepiece diamond or stone and smaller, precious details around it or along the band itself. There are around twelve common precious stone cuts including the princess, cushion, oval, brilliant round, pear and marquise cut.

For partners who favour a timeless, classic style, the brilliant round cut is an excellent choice. Someone who prefers a good design and practicality over bling, on the other hand, will appreciate a simple oval cut. Should you have a keen eye for beauty and design, you could even choose to go with a bespoke engagement ring for something truly unique.

Fairtrade white gold engagement rings with diamond set shoulders.

Ethical Sourcing

While questions of style and budget are very important, there is a far more crucial aspect to this purchasing experience you should be taking into consideration, namely, where the materials for your chosen engagement rings are sourced.

Enter into marriage with a clean conscience by purchasing your ring from a recognized establishment offering traceable diamonds. While many professionals like to insist that the Kimberly Process guarantees conflict-free diamonds, the system unfortunately cannot guarantee this and you will only be sure if you look for diamonds such as some from Canada which are fully traceable.

Of course, it’s not only the origin of diamonds and precious stones we should be worrying about. If you want to ensure that the raw materials of your ring were sourced in a manner that supports good working conditions, fair wages and better opportunities for small mining communities, you should contemplate Fairtrade gold too.

Ingle & Rhode in London is a great example of a specialized jeweller that is not only known for fabulous and exclusive designs made by a team of talented craftsmen and women, but Fairtrade practices and a zero-tolerance policy on conflict diamonds. Known as “The Ethical Jeweller”, Ingle & Rhode’s diamonds are traceable to their original source thus, 100% Kimberly Certified without having fallen through any loopholes. If diamonds or Fairtrade gold aren’t quite what you’re after, they can create any bespoke gold or platinum ethical jewellery you require giving you a unique and entirely custom made design that is made in the UK.

Canadian diamonds offer traceability back to source.

Budget Considerations

People are quick to assume that an ethically sourced engagement ring is not economically viable to them when the truth is, fair trade jewellery is available to all budgets – and that does not mean you’ll have to compromise on the beauty and design either. Inform the jewellery sales person of your budget and you will see just how wide of a selection is available to you even on a minimal budget. Eco-conscious purchasing does not always equal steep prices, and the greater good will far outweigh your initial setback.

Sizing Up Your Choices

Don’t panic about how to get your ring sized without ruining the surprise for your partner – there are many ingenious ways to go about it and it will most certainly involve a little detective work. If possible, try and get a hold of one of your partner’s rings and try them on for size. If it fits any of your fingers, you’ll have the perfect indicator for the sales person at the shop. If you can’t seem to get any of your partner’s rings past your nailbed, you can always turn to the trusted internet to help you out. There are various sizing charts available online that will help you determine the size needed.

One thing to keep in mind before you start consulting the charts or measuring your finger with a piece of string, is your body temperature. You’ll want to make sure that you are at your natural temperature – i.e. neither hot nor cold – as this can drastically affect your sizing. If your hands are particularly cold you could note a difference of up to half a size. Last but not least, don’t forget that the width of the band will also play a role in sizing. If you are going for a wide band, it will always fit somewhat tighter than a thin band.

Photo Credits

Photos courtesy of Ingle & Rhode

Guest Author Bio
Ingle & Rhode

Experts in ethical fine jewellery, having been established since 2007. Ingle & Rhode, based in London, aim to raise awareness of the issues of many of the diamonds still used in jewellery and rings today such as coming from conflict areas or being smuggled to other countries to receive ‘Kimberley Process Certification’. They are pioneers in ethical sourcing using only recycled or Fairtrade precious metals and producing all their jewellery in the UK.

Choosing one without the assistance of your fiancée-to-be can be a considerable challenge if you’re not terribly knowledgeable in this area.

Understand the Quality

One of the worst mistakes you can make when you purchase an engagement ring is to select a low-quality product. Even if you’re on a tight budget, you mustn’t sacrifice the quality of a ring that is intended to symbolize a love to last the rest of your lives.

You may wish to research everything, from metal durability to jewel quality. Gold is the most often chosen for the band material, because gold is easy to work with, carries considerable value, and shines beautifully.

Diamonds are the most popular jewel because they’re rare, dazzlingly shiny, and last forever. Learn about the “4 Cs” for considering the quality and value of diamonds, if you go this route.

If you choose to use a different metal or gemstone based on your girlfriend’s taste, look for products designed and manufactured by certified jewelers who have a reputation for quality. These products tend to be less durable than gold and diamonds, and you want to make sure their product is well made and carries a solid warranty.

Check Her Browsing History

Odds are, if you’re ready to pop the question and are fairly certain she’ll say yes, she’s probably researched engagement rings online herself. When she’s not around, hop onto her laptop or Pinterest page and check out her browsing history.

She might have examined several styles of rings to determine her favorite, so search for a page or two that she’s visited repeatedly. She could have pinned similar style rings, such as the ever-popular halo engagement ring style or classic solitaire diamond, on a Pinterest page as well.

Doing this kind of research might provide an excellent basis for picking the perfect ring.

Ask Friends and Family

Perhaps you know your fiancée-to-be better than anyone, but that doesn’t mean she tells you everything. If she wants the engagement to be a surprise, she may not tell you what kind of ring she’s had her eye on.

More likely, that’s something she would have discussed with her girlfriends and members of her family. Ask the people closest to her if she’s dropped any hints about jewelry.

If you get nothing there, you might be able to get a second opinion at least from her friends who know her style. They can help you choose a ring that could be just the right amount of flashy — or not – for your intended.

Figure Out Her Ring Size

A ring can always be resized, of course, but you’ll get more points if she puts it on her finger right after you ask the big question and it fits her perfectly. That shows that you did your homework and avoids any awkwardness that might ruin an otherwise perfect memory.

It’s fairly simple to identify a girl’s ring size if she wears rings on a regular basis. Borrow one from her jewelry box (or ask one of her friends or family members to get one) and take it to a jeweler for sizing.

You could also trace one of her rings on a piece of paper if you’re worried about misplacing it or her noticing it’s temporarily missing. If she doesn’t wear rings often or there’s no way to get access to her jewelry, you’ll have to make your best educated guess.

The next time you hold her hand, compare her finger size to your own. The jeweler may be able to guess her ring size fairly accurately based on the comparison.

Drop Some Hints

Although ideally you want the question and the ring to be a perfect surprise, you may reach a point where you’ll have no option but to drop a couple of hints to in order to locate the perfect ring. But if you’re strategic about it, you might be able to develop some ideas without making her any wiser about your plans to propose.

You might ask her what kind of jewelry she likes, her favorite colors, and whether she favors diamonds or other gemstones more. Try to work these questions into the natural flow of conversation … or better yet, get one of her friends to bring it up on a separate occasion and report back to you.

More than likely, even if your girlfriend manages to figure out what you’re up to, she won’t let on that she knows. An apparently surprise engagement is so much better when the ring is exactly what she’s dreamed about. She’ll wear it with pride: the symbol of your lasting love and bond.

Photo Credit

Halo Engagement Ring from Sylvie Collection

Photo is pixabay creative commons

Guest Author Bio
Jamie Lansley

Jamie is a freelance writer who covers trends in business, technology, and health. She loves to go skiing, camping, and rock climbing with her family.

Though sometimes pricey, engagement photos are often a practical way to share good news and a key wedding planning tool. Here are four ways couples use their engagement photos in the run-up to their weddings and how they’ve proven to be a great investment.

Find A Photographer That Fits

Unless you’re a professional model, you may not feel totally comfortable in front of the camera, and that means it can take plenty of shots to capture a great image. By taking engagement photos, you essentially get to audition your photographer and make sure you feel comfortable with them on your wedding day. Though some people complain that engagement photos are staged and don’t really represent the couple, that’s actually the point. Your wedding is also unlike any other day, but you can’t recreate it if the photos don’t come out quite right. Your engagement photo shoot prepares you for those ultimate pictures.

Reveal Your Ring

Like engagement photos, engagement rings haven’t always been a pre-wedding tradition. Specifically, the diamond engagement rings popular today didn’t become standard until the 1930s, several decades after Tiffany & Co. devised their classic setting. Today, almost every couple displays their commitment with a ring of some sort, whether it’s a vintage engagement ring, a family heirloom, or a custom piece designed to mark this unique relationship, and it’s natural to want to show off that ring to friends and family.

During your engagement photo shoot, your photographer can snap the perfect picture of your ring, one that truly represents its beauty and displays its details more clearly than an ordinary snapshot would. Though it doesn’t need to be center stage, it’s meaningful to have an image of the ring that marks your commitment.

Get Invitation Ideas

Crafting a great save the date, invitation, and wedding website is central to communicating with your guests before the wedding, but what do you share on your site or print on the save the date? Engagement photos, of course! Many couples feel uncomfortable sharing their snapshots on their wedding page or using it on an invitation, but these professional photos are perfect for wedding communications.

Capture Somewhere Special

One of the great perks of taking engagement photos is that, because it’s just you and your partner, many of the practical considerations involved in planning a wedding can be set aside – and that’s shown by the creative ideas couples display in engagement shoots. Want to take pictures on a boat or walk across a bridge? Your photographer can help you arrange it. Prefer a more intimate setting for your photos, such as your home kitchen? That works too. Your engagement photos are a chance to capture a place that’s special to you and to share that place with family and friends, even if it’s not a practical wedding location.

Engagement photos are full of possibilities, and they’re a chance to capture your relationship before everything changes – before you become a married couple. If you’re considering taking engagement photos, don’t be afraid to embrace what makes your relationship unique. Those photos are the most treasured of all.

Photo Credit

Photo is pixabay creative commons

Guest Author Bio
Jamie Lansley

Jamie is a freelance writer who covers trends in business, technology, and health. She loves to go skiing, camping, and rock climbing with her family.

The Wool Socks Look Good

When my daughter announced that she was getting married I had to pretend that it was happy news. Truth be told, I couldn’t understand why she was doing it. It wasn’t as if someone was forcing her. It was a real puzzle; I thought I’d raised her better than that. Then a dear friend announced she was getting married too.

What the hell?

Weddings—they make me queasy.

***

The middle of winter—long, long ago—in a land far, far away…

The acrid scent of chlorine fills my head. It burns. I am just coming in for a turn and my brain is not engaged. Nor, apparently, are my auto-reflexes. I’ve managed to inhale a lot of water. My entire sinus cavity is filled with pool. Hanging upside-down isn’t a good place to be when your mind is focused somewhere else. The distraction? My upcoming nuptials.

I come up sputtering and coughing. The water feels as if it is corroding me. It seeps into places where it shouldn’t be. It runs down the back of my throat and I choke. My swim partner is almost at the far side of the lane before I push off the wall again. I have to haul ass. I spend the rest of the set playing catch-up.
I’ve spent the last several weeks trying to figure out how the hell I got into this mess. I can’t see any way out. I’m suffocating, and not just from pool water. I feel trapped. But I’m so immature that it doesn’t occur to me to just say no. The funny thing is that I don’t want to say no to my fiancé; he’s a great guy. I really just want to say no to the parental units.

I don’t want to get married. I’ve never wanted to get married. I don’t recall a single second of my life ever thinking about the whole sordid practice. Any time I hear the nonsense of girls dreaming and planning their wedding day, I gag, just a little.

We’ve only been engaged seven months. That’s not nearly long enough. We don’t even know each other. My arms pull the water and I do lazy kicks to keep my body streamlined. Pull, push, breathe, exhale, flip, push, and kick. Four thousand meters and the only moment I remember is when I tried to drown myself. My sinuses still ache.

The shower clunks every time the water stops. It’s one of those timed things. I lather strawberry scented shampoo over my entire body in a futile effort to scrub the smell of chlorine off my skin. It doesn’t work. Any time I sweat, I smell like bleach. The lather also doesn’t help my dilemma. The stupid wedding ceremony. How do I get out of it? I can’t wash that away either.

I open the door and exit the pool in a mist of warm, humid air that turns to ice crystals and coats my exposed skin. I am covered in tiny snowflakes as I walk across the parking lot. My boyfriend—no fiancé—is waiting for me. He rolls his window down and smiles. “You should have dried your hair. It’s -35 degrees out here.” My hair feels like an ice helmet protecting my head. I smile back and get into the truck and immediately start to thaw, and then drip. It matches the drip from my nose.

***

“We can’t get married that weekend,” I tell my parents. “I have a swim meet in Toronto.”

My mom flutters about and my dad scowls. “Well what about the next weekend?” he asks.

“We’re going on an ice fishing trip for the week,” I reply.

Dad’s face turns a dark, red hue. I see the storm coming. He smashes his fist onto the table and bellows, “Well you can’t get married the weekend after that because I have a curling bonspiel.”

“Sure,” I say. I shrug my shoulders and a little spark of hope ignites. This thing may not happen.

He turns to my mom. “We have no other choice. It has to be that weekend.” The spark drowns. He looks at me and glowers. “You’re not taking this seriously!”

You bet your ass I’m not taking this serious. In fact, I’m the antithesis of serious. I want none of it. I want out. But I don’t say it. Why don’t I say it? Instead I agree on a date. Dread settles across my shoulders like a black cape. It’s as if I’ve just agreed to my execution day.

***

I go shopping for a dress looking like someone who’s been lost in the bush for two weeks. Torn jeans, plaid shirt, bandana wrapped around my head, and lint covered wool socks bunched around my ankles. I grab two dresses off a hanger and stalk off into a change room. I pull the first one over my head, roll up my jeans, and then pull it down over my legs. I look exactly like I feel, awkward, unhappy, uncomfortable and stupid. Except for the wool socks.  They look good.

***

People want to come to the wedding. I cannot fathom it. Sure, my family is coming, but they have to because they’re family. But other people want to come, people who aren’t even related to me. My fiancé’s family is coming. I don’t understand it. Why would they want to come? The whole thing is a mystery to me. 

The wedding day dawns bright, blue and fucking cold. The hairdresser does my hair and sticks little white flowers into it. I look ridiculous. I smile and thank her. She primps, sprays some kind of shellac into it and, BAM, I’ve got wedding hair helmet. I pace around and look at the clock every five seconds. Mom smiles and thinks that I’m excited. In reality, I figure that if I’m going to do this, let’s just get it over and done with. The proud parents and the bristling bride finally leave for the church. We’re being married by a friend who works at the pool to make extra money, because apparently, being his particular God’s rep doesn’t pay well. 

I have almost no memories of the actual ceremony. All I remember is wanting to get the hell out of there and being somewhat proud of myself for not tripping in my heels. I don’t even remember the reception. They say it was a good one. That’s thanks to Mom. She coordinated the whole thing. 

We somehow end up in my fiancé’s—excuse me—husband’s brother’s car. I’m wearing some kind of hideous outfit that I changed into just before we left the reception. We are heading to a hotel for two days. I strip down to my underwear and throw the outfit out the window and pull on a pair of jeans and a sweatshirt. It’s the first time in weeks that I feel normal. It’s probably because I don’t have the Sword of Damocles hanging over my head. By the time we get to the hotel we are both laughing. My husband walks into the lobby wearing his baby-blue wedding suit; I look like the woman version of Grizzly Adams with a bandana wrapped around her rigid hair. We look more like escapees from Deliverance than a newlywed couple and receive more than one raised eyebrow while checking in. 

We both give big sighs when we finally get into our room. “I’m never doing that again,” I tell my husband.

Now, if I could just talk everyone else into it…

Image Credit

“Bridal Kneesocks” by Lemonjenny. Creative Commons Flickr. Some rights reserved.