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I love making combs for the back of the hair, fastenings or decorations for the back of a dress. It really is all about the detail and important to consider that not all your photographs will be a square on front view. Likewise, some of the most successful pieces I’ve worked on are all about what you see once you get closer, and a talking point for you and your guests. My “Discovery” bridal bouquets featuring all sorts of forgotten treasures are pure bliss to work on. My first order since returning to work has been such a love affair – I’m not sure I’ll be able to hand it over when she comes to collect (I’m working on “letting go” Laura don’t worry)!

The bride in question fell in love with the bouquet (pictured below) that I had made for her friend Sarah a few years ago. When Laura arrived with a box of broken jewellery, pre loved sparkle, buttons and even her Grandfather’s handkerchief I felt so inspired. I can’t wait to post some photos her finished bouquet that was kick started by the one featured below – but only right the bride sees it first…

And a sixpence in her shoe… Have you ever heard that? I’m all for comfort so there’s no reason why the sixpence cannot be wired into your bouquet. A borrowed locket sewn into the lining of your dress. The palest of light azure blue swarovski crystals in your flower girl’s alice band. And that stunning new headdress from Rachel Wood Designs made to your tastes, bringing those old retro pearls right up to date. Bright ideas? Plenty more where they came from…

There are a range of existing designs for inspiration that can be embellished and remade in any colours you desire.

If you want something a little different, use bespoke service and have a unique piece of jewellery designed specifically for you, following a consultation.

Please contact Rachel to discuss your requirements.

by APPOINTMENT

Rachel Wood Designs is based from home and we have a number of workshop samples ready for you to try on. We can also advise you of available alterations and alternative design ideas to suit your needs. Choose from one of the existing designs in a range of colours / components, or take inspiration from them and have a new design tailor-made to your specifications.

Our bespoke service is ideal for those of you who require inspiration and guidance, or desire something just a little different. During the consultation there will be samples available for you to try on and your requirements and ideas can then be discussed at length. Any other important information such as deadlines, colour themes and details of the special occasion would be helpful in advance of the meeting.

Please contact Rachel for more information and to make an appointment.

PAYMENT DETAILS

30% Deposits will be required when commissioning a bespoke order, and the balance due on collection/before delivery. Orders of existing designs and samples will require payment in full, in advance.

You can choose from the range of existing designs or use the bespoke design service, and have something tailor-made to your individual specifications. Tiaras and handcrafted designer jewellery pieces are made from the highest quality Swarovski crystal, glass beads, crystal pearls and intricate wire work.

• tiaras and headdresses
• earrings and bracelets
• combs and pins
• fascinators and hat decoration
• bespoke accessories
• costume jewellery repairs / re modelling

How do we start?

1. Look at the portfollio for inspiration
2. Gather together your samples, ideas and any forgotten treasures / pre loved jewellery, brooches etc. for including in the design
3. Book a consultation
4. We begin creating your unique piece

If I had a sixpence for every time I’d been given a piece of “broken” jewellery that “you wont be able to do anything with” then I wouldn’t be able to move for sixpences. I absolutely LOVE the expression on someone’s face when they receive a piece of unique jewellery, handcrafted out of something they wouldn’t even send to the charity shop. I must of been a Womble in a previous life because if it’s not jewellery then its re-purposing furniture my parents have thrown out (and painting it up for the work shop)… and just lately re-homing a pre loved kitchen. (Thank you Jenny & Bill – bet you a sixpence you will want it back when it’s been rubbed scrubbed and rejuvenated with a bit of Farrow & Ball… love their paint)

I’m drawn to old stuff, the way it feels where has it been? Who owned it? What’s your story my little hidden gem?

I also like the satisfaction of the uniqueness and quality of the “new” form of a previously dismissed object once it’s been reborn. New – and the one and only.

Vintage and “Retro” are such a strong current through many wedding themes in particular, surely it’s much more charming a notion to up-cycle a genuine treasure than settle for an inspired copy? Have a look inside your jewellery box, also your mum’s and under Aunty flo’s bed if you dare. What about Grandad’s broken cufflinks? And the buttons from your first baby cardigan? If there is a reason that you haven’t moved these things on then let’s give them a second chance at life.

A new gown covered in antique beads… Watch this space 😉