I don’t know about you but I just love engagement and wedding rings. I love them not only because they say ‘yay, someone loves me!’ but also because of the story that sits behind them.
Everyone has their own tale, their own set of experiences that has got them to the point of engagement or marriage and frankly, I can’t get enough of that. So, it’s no surprise that I’m a BIG fan of bespoke rings because you know, when your story is such a one off, shouldn’t your rings be too? farado design definitely thinks so.
Bespoke jewellery designer Lisa Catterson is the creative genius behind farado design. Based in a rather fabulous historic studio space in Glasgow city centre, she spends her days working on bespoke orders with clients and creating their individual pieces using Fairtrade gold and ethically sourced stones.
Lisa studied at the Glasgow School of Art and, after graduating, she was artist-in-residence at the Edinburgh College of Art as well as teaching and taking part in international exhibitions. She launched farado design in 2016 to focus on bespoke commissions:
“Going bespoke has allowed me to work with clients on a more personal basis,” says Lisa. “It gives me the opportunity to create a ring that’s unique and meaningful to them.”
“My style is influenced heavily by simple shapes, wearability and minimalism. I’m always drawn back to looking at repeating structures in nature, which could be anything from seeds in fruit, layers of petals in a flower to bird feathers. I love focusing on how an organic structure can be made out of similar repeating units, resulting in so many variations and these elements usually appear in the two inspiration collections that I produce each year. However, the bespoke process is my true love.”
Lisa adores creating unique designs for clients and incorporating their personal style preferences and meaningful details into each piece. On principle, Lisa uses Fairtrade gold and ethically sourced stones in her work.
“Buying Fairtrade makes a real difference to the lives of the miners and their families so it seemed an easy decision to make, alongside using quality, sourceable Canada-Mark diamonds. My pieces are so personal and special, it was my desire from a design perspective to create something that leaves a positive mark not only on the client, but also on the people who made it happen.”
Fairtrade gold really does make a massive impact to lives. When you buy it, you know the small scale and artisanal miners were paid a fair price, giving them financial security. They also receive an extra amount of money to invest in building the future of (for) their families and communities through education, medical care or environmental projects.
It really is quite special to think that a ring that changes your life is going to change someone else’s too and as stories go, that’s just beyond fabulous.
The bespoke process ring design process at farado design is also a treat for you too. Lisa spends a lot of time with each client, designing and creating the perfect piece. She can meet with you in person for a bespoke design consultation or, if you’re a little further afield, you can work online and through video calls.
However you choose to work with farado design, it’s sure to be a beautiful chapter in the story of you.
Bespoke commissions from farado design start at £1500. For more information, do take a look at the website or contact Lisa directly on [email protected]
Love,
Tamryn x
Tamryn Settle View all Tamryn's articles
Self-confessed wedding addict Tamryn spends her days in her Berkshire studio writing about all things beautiful and romantic with her black Labrador for company.
