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Want Something Unique? Remodel Your Jewellery With Sue Lane Contemporary Jewellery

If you are looking for a special piece of jewellery you may not know where to start. Do you buy an item that's new, antique or remodelled? Today on my blog I am talking about the benefits of having your jewellery remodelled and how this can produce a treasured possession that is unique and will be adored. This is an advertorial post in conjunction with Sue Lane Contemporary Jewellery but all words and opinions are my own. 

Why Remodel Your Jewellery?


sapphire ring

Remodelling your jewellery means taking one or more of your current items of jewellery and changing the design so it becomes a new treasured piece. 

Some Benefits Of Remodelling Your Jewellery

1. It's a cost-effective way of making a new item, as you save on the cost of raw materials, such as gold, silver, and gemstones.

2. You can make an item unique. No one will have the same piece of jewellery as you, it will be a bespoke design and different to what anybody else has. This will create a beautiful item that is extra special.

3. You can preserve the sentimental value. Even if the piece of jewellery is not to your taste or up-to-date in design you can take something cherished and make it into an item of jewellery that is to your taste. 

4. It is more sustainable. The jewellery industry often has a negative environmental impact due to mining for precious metals and gemstones. Remodelling offers a greener alternative to mining for new materials. 

Sue Lane Contemporary Jewellery 

Of course, it's important to pick a jeweller with experience and training in jewellery making and remodelling. One just artisan jeweller is Sue Lane. Sue is a contemporary jewellery maker based in Hereford, England who has a real passion for creating unique pieces of jewellery.

After graduating from Middlesex University in 2000 she set up her studio in Herefordshire to create contemporary jewellery that would be distinctly recognised as her own. Over the years, she has exhibited widely across the UK, including at the Goldsmiths’ Fair, and the Chelsea Craft Fair. Currently, she is focusing on working with customers in her rural workshop by appointment only. In this way, she feels she gives her customers her full uninterrupted attention, where they can discuss commissions in a much more relaxed and personal setting.

Remodelling And Commissioning

Her particular speciality is remodelling and commissioning. She creates bespoke, modern, unique, and handmade pieces in her own style, working closely with clients to ensure their involvement in the design process. This allows them to own truly unique pieces of jewellery.

ring remodelled
The client is contacted every step of the way to ensure they are happy with the process with sketches and quotes if their ideas change, and as you can see above, the outcome is beautiful and distinctive. Of course, all the work is guaranteed.

Jewellery Commissioning Process

rings
If you are interested in jewellery remodelling but don't know where to start, the jewellery commissioning process isn't as complicated as you may think.  

If you can't attend the workshop in person Sue is happy to talk to you on Zoom or Facetime, to explain the fine details. How convenient is that? Sketches and emails are exchanged to ensure everything is perfect.  She can also see you by appointment in London, to discuss things further. 

If the item is a ring, then a mock silver ring is made so the client is happy with the size and weight of the ring. There is nothing more disappointing than the ring arriving and it is the wrong size. This process helps eliminate that. Once she gets the go ahead the commission is made and it is sent to the Assay Office for hallmarking. Hallmarking in the UK is a minimum standard that ensures your jewellery is to the quality of precious metal that it says it is. The item is then polished and finished off. Every step of the way the item is photographed so that the client is happy. The item can then be picked up in her studio, in London, or carefully packaged and insured to be delivered to the client. 

Happy Clients


pink sapphire ring

Sue has many happy clients, as you can expect with the quality of the work and the thorough communication process.

"Hi Sue,

I just wanted to say a huge and slightly belated thank you. I love love love the rings and I’m so glad I went with a new emerald. I’m away at the moment and everyone's commenting on them. 

Thanks again, JC"

"Dear Sue,

The package has arrived safely. The necklace is beautiful and perfect: thank you so much for your skilled and sympathetic craftsmanship! It has been a pleasure dealing with you, from start to finish. 

With all best wishes, IC" 

Check out this link where she talks about the process of remodelling in more depth.

If you are looking to have a piece of jewellery remodelled then try Sue Lane Contemporaty Jewellery for a unique item of precious jewellery you will treasure forever. 

*Collaborative post

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Win a £10 Amazon Gift Card Ends 12/01/25

Christmas is a magical time of year that brings people joy and a sense of togetherness worldwide. Whether it’s the sparkling lights on trees, the smell of the turkey cooking, or the laughter of loved ones gathered around the table, this season holds a special place in many people's hearts. 

The Joy of Christmas and an Exciting Gift Card Giveaway

family at Christmas


At its core, Christmas is about giving—sharing our time, love, and kindness with others. Traditions like exchanging gifts, singing carols, or attending midnight services remind us of the importance of generosity and gratitude. It's a season for cherishing the relationships that matter most, creating memories that last a lifetime, and taking moments to reflect on the past year while looking forward to new beginnings. 

Many people however have a tough Christmas, money is tighter than ever for so many people. So I want to give a little back. Amid the hustle and bustle of holiday shopping, I wanted to add a little extra cheer to your Christmas season with a chance to win a £10 Amazon gift card! This competition will end in January so in that tough month, when we all have a little less you will have a £10 Amazon gift card to go towards essentials or a little treat for yourself.

How to Enter the Giveaway



Entering is simple! Entry is via Gleam so just enter your name, and leave a comment on my blog with your favourite Christmas tradition.

The winner will be announced on 12th of January so keep an eye on this page. Good luck, and may your holiday season be filled with joy, love, and the thrill of winning this little token of cheer!

Thank you for being part of my blog community—your support is the greatest gift of all. Merry Christmas and happy New Year!

Win £10 Amazon Voucher
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Why Do Men Wear Jewellery?

Jewellery has always been popular when it comes to accessorising, and while people usually think of jewellery, as something for women to wear, guys have rocked jewellery too throughout the centuries. 

Nowadays, men are increasingly using jewellery to express themselves, and their style, and a kind of rebellion against conventional gender norms. It's not just about looking good; jewellery can mean so much more for guys, whether culturally, emotionally, or even spiritually. Jewellery is also a symbol of power, status and identity and many men enjoy wearing jewellery, whether it's a necklace, earrings or ring.

Tradition and Culture

signet ring

Historically men have worn jewellery going back centuries, If you think of the ancient Egyptians, all the Pharaohs wore neck collars adorned with precious stones. Roman generals wore rings as a symbol of their authority and Viking warriors wore amulets as protection.

In Indian culture men wear rings, chains and bracelets for religious ceremonies as well as weddings which symbolise prosperity and family ties. Whilst in Africa beaded necklaces and bracelets show status or rites of passage. 

In Western society signet rings show status and family heritage, wedding rings show commitment and cufflinks also can show status or heritage. A watch can also be a traditional item of adornment, modern men may go for a traditional style or an iced out watch to show their individuality. 

Identity, Style and Individuality
stud earrings

Men use jewellery to express their identity, their style, their religion and their individuality. From a bracelet engraved with details of the birth of their children or a loved one's name to a bold statement ring, jewellery can reveal a lot about a man's values and what means a lot to them. 

It's also quite fashionable to wear jewellery like hip hop stud earrings and jewellery made from stainless steel as it produces an urban look that is fashionable and cost-effective. 

Sentimental Value

Jewellery can be emotionally significant. A wedding ring shows commitment and love for the other person, whilst a bracelet or necklace that is given as a gift can show love and appreciation. 

An item of jewellery can even be remodelled. This can work well with items like rings or necklaces left when a loved one dies. These can be melted down or remodelled into another item of jewellery that will be a keepsake of that person.

As An Investment

Jewellery, in particular gold, platinum and palladium, is often a good investment as it retains its value over time and generally increases in value. 

It is thought of as a safe investment from inflation. It is also a tangible asset offering a sense of security in uncertain times. 

Breaking Gender Norms

chain

Societies' attitudes towards fashion and gender have changed over time, giving men a resurgence in wearing jewellery. Many pop stars as well as sport and film stars wear jewellery today, it's not just the preserve of women. 

People like Timothee Chalame, David Beckham, Pharrell Williams and Harry Styles have made it cool for men to wear jewellery. Check out these hip hop chains for further inspiration.

Conclusion

Jewellery for men is a way of expressing their individuality and culture.  Whether they are wearing a simple bracelet, a striking necklace, or a sentimental ring, jewellery tells a story about who they are.

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Coordinating Group Outfits: Tips for Family, Couple, or Team Photoshoots

Coordinating outfits in group photos is quite an old practice that is still popular to this day simply because of the visceral impact that well-planned outfits make. Viewers instinctively understand that if the wearers of coordinated outfits, then they share some kind of connectionr—and this reaction is exactly what you want to elicit as a group photographer.

Having your subjects wear coordinated outfits also brings some other benefits. Apart from simply showing off a relationship, it can also tell a story. For instance, at pre-wedding shoots, it is typical for the bride- and groom-to-be to have clothes similar but at a step above the rest of the bridal party to signal close ties while still putting the focus on the couple. Similarly, a class photo or a shot of coworkers will typically have everyone wearing their uniforms to signify their equality or hierarchical status. If nothing else, coordinated clothing is a classic choice, providing timeless quality that clients will appreciate when they look back on their photos years later.

Still, pulling off coordinated group outfits isn’t always straightforward. To begin, there are costs associated with purchasing or renting the right attire. Clients can also have varying opinions or preferences that might cause tension among those involved. There’s also such a thing as being too coordinated, which can come across as unnatural or unintentionally humorous.

How to Make Coordinated Outfits Work

family

As a photographer, it will be part of your job to help your clients better coordinate their outfits so that they’re left with a group portrait they love. You can make the challenge a bit simpler by searching “photo studio near me" so that you have a venue for closely controlling the technical aspects of your shoot. Check out these other tips so that your next group shots remain timeless and beloved:

1. Prepare Well in Advance

Encourage your clients to plan and finalise outfits at least a week before the shoot—much better if they have all the time they need. Rushing will often result in expensive, unsatisfactory compromises that your clients may not be prepared for and may very well dislike.

2. Start with a Colour Palette

Suggest a simple palette of two to four colours that work well together, particularly shades that the principal clients love. If they offer no strong opinions, recommend neutral tones since these photograph beautifully and may bring out the best out of your subjects. To add variety without sacrificing colour cohesion, propose outfits that incorporate different shades or textures within the palette.

3. Consider the Setting

If you and your clients can’t decide on a theme, perhaps you can take inspiration from the shoot location. For outdoor shoots, earthy tones or soft colours that evoke the landscape will blend beautifully with natural backdrops, making the group appear to be part of the environment. For indoor or urban settings, such as in a studio or in the client’s home, bold or monochrome palettes can add a punchy but familiar modern touch.

4. Consider Everyone’s Comfort

The chosen outfits must be comfortable for everyone so that the session remains enjoyable, avoiding a look of unease in the final portraits. For instance, you might want to avoid woollen suits in the height of summer or lightweight outfits in winter. When possible, the styles worn by the subjects should also be ones that leave them feeling their best.

5. Use Accessories to Tie the Group Together

If the budget is limited or if the group can’t agree on a common outfit, you can use accessories to tie everything together, instead. Scarves, hats, jackets, or matching shoes can add connectedness without requiring completely identical outfits.

6. Coordinating Doesn’t Mean Cloning

Avoid totally identical outfits unless the context calls for it, such as when you’re shooting a sports team, wedding parties, or students from a school that has uniforms. Even within these contexts, completely matching outfits can sometimes seem slightly off-putting. If you have to have identical outfits, make sure that it’s done intentionally.

7. Provide Your Subjects with a Style Guide—Not Style Rules

Even though your subjects are going to be wearing coordinated outfits, you must still leave room for their individual personalities to shine. For example, you can let a child wear their favourite hat, or have a member of the armed forces wear medals they’re proud of. These small personal touches may not always jump out in the portrait, but they will nonetheless enhance its authenticity, making it a bit more meaningful to those involved.

Raise Your Group Photography Game with Thoughtful Prep and Styling

Photographers, especially beginners, may not realise just how much time and interpersonal drama is involved in seemingly simple group shots. Fortunately, with these suggestions, coordinating group outfits doesn’t have to be especially stressful. If you’re new to professional photography, try to arrange for the shoot to take place in a controlled setting like a studio. This will make things a little less hectic and give you fewer technical details to worry about. You can then put your full focus on your subjects, delivering memorable, timeless images.
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The Unexpected Benefits Of Physiotherapy For Mental Well-Being

When you think of physiotherapy, you probably imagine exercises to recover from an injury or techniques to ease chronic pain. But what if I told you it could be just as powerful for your mind as it is for your body? Whether you’re dealing with stress, anxiety, or just feeling a bit off balance mentally, physiotherapy has surprising benefits that go far beyond the physical.

The Mind-Body Connection: Why It Matters

massage


Ever noticed how stress doesn’t just stay in your head? A tough day can leave your shoulders tight, your neck stiff, or even give you a headache. Our mental and physical states are deeply intertwined. The good news? When you work on one, you often help the other.

Physiotherapy Adelaide taps into this connection. By addressing physical tension, improving posture, or managing chronic pain, it also alleviates the mental strain these issues cause. If you’ve ever felt trapped in a cycle of discomfort and stress, physiotherapy can break it by helping your body feel better, which naturally lightens the load on your mind.

Easing Stress Through Movement

We all carry stress differently. Some people clench their jaw, others hunch their shoulders, and many of us feel it in our backs. These physical reactions don’t just happen—they build up over time, and they can take a real toll.

Physiotherapists are skilled at identifying these tension points and giving you the tools to release them. Maybe it’s targeted stretches for your neck or exercises to strengthen your posture. Small adjustments like these can bring huge relief, helping you feel more at ease, both physically and mentally.

Even better? Moving your body releases endorphins—those feel-good chemicals that naturally boost your mood. The right exercises, guided by a physiotherapist, can help you tap into those benefits in a safe, effective way.

Building Confidence in Your Body

Have you ever felt frustrated with what your body can—or can’t—do? Maybe a lingering injury has made you avoid certain activities, or ongoing discomfort has knocked your confidence. This doesn’t just affect your physical capabilities; it can leave you feeling stuck or even disconnected from yourself.

Physiotherapy gives you a way to reclaim that confidence. Whether it’s reducing pain, improving mobility, or simply helping you move more freely, every small win builds trust in your body again. And let’s be honest—feeling strong and capable has a way of lifting your spirits, too.

Better Sleep, Better Mindset

physiotherapy

Let’s talk about sleep. When you’re tossing and turning, everything feels harder, right? Sleep isn’t just about recharging your body—it’s crucial for your mental health, too. Poor sleep can leave you irritable, unfocused, and more prone to anxiety.

Aches, stiffness, or physical restlessness often contribute to sleepless nights, and that’s where physiotherapy can help. By addressing those physical barriers to rest—whether through targeted exercises, massage, or relaxation techniques—physiotherapy helps prepare your body for deeper, more restorative sleep. And when you wake up feeling refreshed, your mind is in a much better place to tackle the day.

The Power of Mindfulness in Physiotherapy

One of the underrated aspects of physiotherapy is its focus on mindfulness. It’s not just about doing exercises; it’s about becoming more aware of your body. How does it feel to stretch a stiff joint? Where do you carry tension? How does your breathing change when you move?

These small moments of awareness add up. Physiotherapy sessions often incorporate breathing techniques or guided focus on specific movements. This kind of mindfulness not only improves your physical recovery but also has a calming effect on your mind. It’s a simple way to stay present and connected, which is especially helpful if you’re feeling overwhelmed.

Helping Manage Anxiety and Depression

If you’ve ever dealt with anxiety or depression, you know how hard it can be to get out of your own head. One of the most effective ways to break that cycle is through movement. Studies consistently show that physical activity reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression, and physiotherapy can make that activity more accessible, especially if pain or injury has held you back.

What makes physiotherapy unique is its personalised approach. Instead of a one-size-fits-all workout plan, you’ll get exercises designed specifically for your needs and limitations. This tailored care makes it easier to stick with the routine, helping you build momentum and, over time, feel more in control.

Why Personalised Care Makes a Difference

One of the biggest advantages of physiotherapy is the one-on-one attention you receive. A physiotherapist doesn’t just look at your physical condition—they take the time to understand how your pain, stress, or limitations are impacting your mental health. This personalised care makes the process feel supportive, not overwhelming.

You’re not just doing exercises—you’re working towards goals that matter to you. Whether that’s managing chronic pain, improving mobility, or simply feeling more comfortable in your body, having a clear plan tailored to your needs makes the whole experience more motivating and rewarding.

Ready to Take the First Step?

Physiotherapy isn’t just about fixing injuries or easing pain—it’s about helping you feel like the best version of yourself, inside and out. If stress, anxiety, or physical discomfort has been weighing you down, why not explore what physiotherapy can do for your mental well-being?

*Collaborative post
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Trapstar London: Redefining Streetwear Culture

 Trapstar London: The Evolution of an Iconic Streetwear Brand

In the dynamic world of streetwear, Trapstar London stands out as a symbol of innovation, authenticity, and cultural impact.


Since its inception, the brand has transcended traditional fashion boundaries, becoming a global phenomenon that embodies the essence of urban lifestyle and defiance. Founded in the heart of London, Trapstar has grown from a passion project into a global powerhouse, inspiring a generation of fashion enthusiasts.

Origins and Rise to Fame

Trapstar was established in 2005 by lifelong friends Mikey, Lee, and Will. Their shared passion for music, art, and underground culture laid the foundation for a brand that represents individuality and self-expression. The name "Trapstar" reflects the duality of urban life—a blend of ambition ("star") and struggle ("trap").

Initially, Trapstar operated with an aura of exclusivity, releasing limited designs and selling them through unconventional channels. This strategy created a sense of mystery and allure around the brand. Word-of-mouth buzz, combined with endorsements from high-profile celebrities, propelled Trapstar into the mainstream spotlight.

Signature Style and Designs

Trapstar’s style blends gritty street culture with high fashion. The Trackstar hoodie feature bold graphics, cryptic typography, and a predominantly monochrome palette, though they frequently experiment with vibrant pops of colour.

One of their most iconic symbols is the "Irongate" logo, which has become synonymous with the brand's rebellious spirit. From oversized hoodies and graphic t-shirts to sleek outerwear, Trapstar consistently blurs the line between comfort and luxury, making it a favourite among urban fashion aficionados.

Celebrity Endorsements and Cultural Impact

Trapstar's rise is partly due to its strong connections with the music and entertainment industry. Over the years, global icons like Rihanna, Jay-Z, Stormzy, and A$AP Rocky have embraced the brand. These endorsements have solidified Trapstar's place in popular culture, making it a staple in the wardrobes of artists and fans alike.

In addition to celebrity support, Trapstar has collaborated with industry giants such as Puma and Netflix, showcasing its versatility and ability to adapt to various creative visions. Its partnership with Puma, in particular, has resulted in limited-edition footwear and apparel that reflect the brand's edgy yet refined style.

Global Appeal

Despite its London roots, Trapstar’s influence extends far beyond the UK. The brand has cultivated a loyal following in cities like New York, Tokyo, and Paris, making it a truly global phenomenon. This widespread appeal lies in Trapstar's ability to resonate with diverse audiences while staying true to its core identity.

Beyond Fashion: A Cultural Movement

Trapstar is more than just a clothing brand; it’s a cultural movement. The brand frequently uses its platform to highlight social issues and inspire creativity within the community. By blending elements of music, art, and street culture, Trapstar serves as a voice for those navigating the complexities of modern urban life.

The Future of Trapstar

As Trapstar continues to evolve, its commitment to authenticity remains unwavering. With new collections, collaborations, and creative projects on the horizon, the brand is set to maintain its status as a leader in streetwear culture.

For Trapstar, the mission is clear: to inspire individuals to break boundaries, embrace their uniqueness, and most importantly, "believe in their own hype."

In a world where trends come and go, Trapstar London has carved out a niche as a symbol of resilience, creativity, and relentless ambition. Its journey is a testament to the power of staying true to one’s roots while daring to dream big.

*Collaborative post


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