6

Nov

2024

Ask The Experts: What Do Diamond Carats Mean and How They Impact Value

When buying a diamond, carats often top the list of considerations, but many people misunderstand what carats actually signify. Carats measure a diamond’s weight, not its size or dimensions. Since carat weight significantly affects a diamond’s appearance and cost, understanding carats is crucial when deciding what works best for your preferences and budget.

Photo by  Linen & Elm Photography  – full wedding here

What Carats Really Measure

Carats are a unit of weight, and in diamonds, one carat equals precisely 200 milligrams. Originally based on the weight of carob seeds, which provided a consistent benchmark in early gem trading, the carat now serves as a standard measurement across the industry. Though carats correlate with size to some extent, carat weight doesn’t translate directly to physical dimensions because the shape and cut of a diamond affect how large it appears.

For instance, a 2 carat diamond ring will hold a diamond weighing 400 milligrams, but its actual face-up size depends on the diamond’s shape and cut quality. For example, an emerald-cut diamond typically looks larger than a round cut of the same carat weight due to its elongated shape. The cut style influences how the diamond reflects light, affecting its perceived size.

Carats, Size, and Perceived Value

Carats influence the perceived size of a diamond, but other factors, such as cut, play an equally significant role. A well-cut diamond can reflect light more efficiently, creating more sparkle and potentially appearing larger than a poorly cut diamond of the same weight. This means a diamond’s weight in carats can provide a general idea of size, but it’s essential to look at cut details for the best balance between size and brilliance.

Examples of Size and Cut Effect

Consider two diamonds, each one carat in weight. A round, well-cut diamond often looks larger and more brilliant than a princess or cushion cut of the same carat weight because the round cut distributes light evenly, maximising its size appearance. Alternatively, diamonds with greater depth and narrower width can appear smaller than their carat weight indicates.

photo by Raw Shoots Photography – full wedding here

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6

Nov

2024

Mikael and Dorine’s Beautiful Olive Grove Wedding in Crete by Akis Mavrakis Signature Photography

If you are currently dreaming of warmer weather and longing for summer, then todays gorgeous Crete wedding is going to add some sunshine to your day. Mikael and Dorine were married on 16th August 2024 at Ktima Panagiotaki. They held the whole day outside from the stunning outdoor ceremony with soft flowing fabrics and gorgeous flowers, to the beautiful alfresco reception, all set amongst the amazing backdrop of the huge olive grove. The whole day is a delight from start to finish, planned by event designer EL&G Rustic Weddings and photographed by  Akis Mavrakis Signature Photography.

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5

Nov

2024

My First Experience As A Guest At A Boho-Style Wedding

Let me tell the story of how I fell in love with boho-style weddings. I’ve always loved weddings, but initially, I never knew much about boho weddings. My friend invited me to tag along to her friend’s boho-themed wedding, and honestly, I didn’t know what to expect. I’d seen photos of boho themes, with their relaxed, earthy vibe and natural beauty, but being there was something else.

So, naturally,  I was both curious and excited to see what the day would hold. The day arrived, and after my experience, I knew I had found a new passion. The couple created an event that felt personal and unique, inviting guests to share in something far more relaxed than any wedding I’d attended before. So, here’s my story on my first experience of a boho wedding.

My First Experience As A Guest At A Boho-Style Wedding

My First Experience As A Guest At A Boho-Style Wedding

Photo by Michael Cosenza – full shoot here

The Boho Style Wedding Decor

The decor was the first thing that struck me when I got to the venue. I had heard that the boho decoration theme was often relaxed, free-spirited, and earthy, but I never understood how those attributes could blend. The decorations were beautiful!

The couple had chosen a spacious garden as their wedding venue and would be joined next to dried floral arrangements. It made for a truly romantic sight. Because they had chosen a garden, their decoration had a lot of greenery from the plants and flowers. The rest of the decor colourfully combined beige, white, and different shades of brown that blended really well with the background.

The finishing touches comprised candles in glass jars, lanterns, macramé backdrops, and fairy lights, which added to the romantic vibe.

My First Experience As A Guest At A Boho-Style Wedding

photo by April Pinto Photography – full wedding here

The Bride’s Boho-Themed Dress

The wedding began, and the bride walked down the aisle towards the dried floral arrangement, where her husband and the minister stood, waiting. She looked so beautiful in her flowing, soft lace gown, with intricate details along the sleeves and hem. As she walked past, her gown trailed behind her. She had her hair loosely braided and adorned with small wildflowers.

Instead of a traditional veil, she opted for a floral crown made of dried flowers and feathers, and it added a natural beauty to her look. She barely had any makeup on her face, which made sense since the overall theme was simplicity and nature.

My First Experience As A Guest At A Boho-Style Wedding

photo by Tarren Bailey Photography, LLC – full shoot here

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5

Nov

2024

Connie and Max’s Intimate and Charming Garden Wedding in Ohio by Seth and Beth Wedding Photography

Connie and Max were married on 7th June 2024 at Kelton House Museum & Garden in Columbus, Ohio, it was a seamless blend of history, elegance, and love. The venue’s timeless charm, with its stately architecture and blooming gardens, provided the perfect backdrop for a storybook wedding. I just love the woodland theme they brought inside to their intimae wedding reception, as well as Connie’s beautiful and unique wedding dress. Big thanks to Seth and Beth Wedding Photography for the gorgeous images.

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4

Nov

2024

Ask The Experts: Guide to Honeymoons in Vietnam

Vietnam is a dream honeymoon destination, offering newlyweds a bit of everything: think tropical beaches, beautiful mountain ranges, bustling cities, and serene countryside. Couples will love exploring vibrant cities like Ho Chi Minh or unwinding on Phu Quoc’s white-sand beaches. 

The culture is equally captivating, with lively markets, historic temples, and friendly locals who welcome travellers with open arms. And for honeymooners looking for luxury without breaking the bank, Vietnam shines with its range of diverse accommodations that provide exceptional value. 

This guide to honeymooning in Vietnam will cover the best time to visit, the top destinations, and a variety of romantic activities, giving you plenty of information and inspiration. In Vietnam, your honeymoon can be as luxurious or adventurous as you like, so read on to discover all the ways you can have an unforgettable start to married life.

Image by Penny

Best Time to Visit 

Generally, Vietnam is great to visit all year round, but the climate does differ by region. In northern Vietnam (Hanoi, Ha Long Bay), November through March is a good time to visit as it’s relatively warm and dry with clear skies, perfect for sightseeing and cruises.

Central Vietnam (Da Nang, Hoi An) sees the summer season last from January until the end of August, so it’s hot and dry, ideal for beach days. The southern region (Ho Chi Minh City, Phu Quoc) enjoys dry, sunny weather from November to late April, offering great conditions for outdoor adventures.

Photo by Jonathan Ouimet< /h4>

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