What is your most memorable wedding?
Laurance and Gina Fishburne at the Cloisters New York
Describe your style in 5 adjectives.
Classic, Elegant, Timeless, Unique, Inventive
What about your business are you most proud of?
The honesty of service with impeccable design and attention to detail.
What is your No. 1 wedding planning tip for couples?
Budget is an overwhelming factor when planning but when it comes to wedding rings these are with you for the rest of your life, drive hard for a competitive price but spend the money on something unique and that you love now, you will love it in decades to come.
What is your favourite personal touch you have seen at a wedding?
A little thank you and personal note at the beginning of the order of service.
Describe your typical process with a couple.
I - MEET THE MASTER JEWELLER (very relaxed)
You’re at the Neil Rayment Studio in Cardiff Bay to discuss commissioning a custom piece of jewellery that will mark a special occasion. Your master maker is brimming with knowledge and ideas, and takes time to listen closely to yours. You feel inspired and at ease. You, Neil and your partner plan your design over fresh coffee, Welsh cakes and jazz music.
II - THE UNIQUE JEWELLERY DESIGN
A week or so later, you receive a 3D image of your design, along with an invite for feedback. Neil uses a fusion of craftsmanship and cutting edge technology. It’s exciting to see a preview before the finished piece is made. It’s just what you hoped for.
III - Handcrafted Jewellery
Your master maker goes to work. He consults the design blueprint to ensure he’s making exactly the right piece for you. You receive a wax master preview, allowing you to see and feel just how your jewellery will look. Once you’ve approved the master, your maker carefully selects brilliant gems from the diamond quarter in Antwerp. He sets the jewels and shapes the precious metal in his workshop.
IV - Your Jewelleries Story Begins
Each piece of exquisite Neil Rayment jewellery is part of a story. You’re thrilled with the finished item and the whole experience has been a special one. You receive your very own handmade jewellery beautifully boxed and delivered in around six weeks. It comes complete with certifications and photographs, ready for your special occasion. The story of the jewellery continues with you.
What are your favourite wedding traditions for rings?
You can't beat a personal inscription, notes of love at the beginning of a journey.
What is the most romantic engraving you have seen on a wedding ring?
There are many and they are all very personal, but one was quite an eye-opener and I had to google it, then blushed.
Which ring do you think holds most significance for a bride?
The engagement ring and that is why the wedding band has to stand the test of time and be the perfect partner.
What is your favourite proposal story?
The family dog trained to jump on the bed with a note and the ring in its collar, it was dressed for the occasion.