As I enter the final year of my 30s, I thought I s As I enter the final year of my 30s, I thought I share with you some pictures of mine at 9 months, 9 years, 19 years, 29 years  to today 39 years old of age. Looking back at each decade, I feel both ‘older’ and ‘younger’, I see the change in my features, the change in my way of life, the change in my personality and the experience itched on my face. I am grateful for the life I have lived thus far and excited for the life I am yet to live. 
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2026 - 39, (Home, England), I am ready for this final year before my 40s but also ready for this next decade. 
2016 - 29, (Oslo, Norway), this decade was about self discovery and building the life I dreamt about. The life that I am super proud of and truly grateful to be living. This decade, I built my financial life and in later years choose to heal from the trauma gained in the last decade and now I feel well equipped for the future. 
2006 - 19, (Glasgow, Scotland), I thought I was grown (look at the cheekbones 🤣🤣) and ready for the world, chiiiild was I wrong, let’s just say, I am still resolving the trauma the decade brought me but I am grateful because I met my best friends and made decisions for the future I wanted to have. (Spoiler alert - I did better than I dreamed). 
1996 - 9, (Home, Zambia) this was my birthday but my little sister insisted she had to be the one in the middle. The only way we knew whose birthday it was, was by standing in the middle but this year I remember baby sister crying her eyes out and refusing 🤨
1988 - 9 months, (Chililabombwe, Zambia) although my mother looks tired and traumatised😟, I know I was loved and happy. 
#happybirthday #happybirthday❤️ #newera #39
Attended #ascotraces for the second year running a Attended #ascotraces for the second year running and I am glad to have experienced the ‘Village enclosure’ this year, whilst I loved ‘Windsor enclosure’ last year, it’s not for me. Next year, I want Queen Anne’s enclosure. 💕 #girlsdayout #girlslikeus #ascotfashion
How I missed you my love 🥰🥰🥰 #hertripsabroad #bla How I missed you my love 🥰🥰🥰

#hertripsabroad #blackgirlstraveltoo #maldives #neverstopexploring #welltravelled
Tried being a #touristforaday and we chose #london Tried being a #touristforaday and we chose #london because why not. My feet still hurt from the thought of how much walking we did, the fact that we walked from #bigben to #buckinghampalace is still fresh on my mind. 

#neverstopexploring
🖤🖤MARCH PHOTO/VIDEO DUMP🖤🖤 So much happened and 🖤🖤MARCH PHOTO/VIDEO DUMP🖤🖤 

So much happened and yet I can’t find the words.
It has been an amazing week here, definitely recom It has been an amazing week here, definitely recommend @iberostar in Agadir. 
#neverstopexploring #wanderlust #welltravelled #lifeofadventure #hertripsabroad
I spent a week in #dohaqatar and had the most rela I spent a week in #dohaqatar and had the most relaxing and fulfilling time of my life. Sometimes taking it slow and living in the moment is what the soul needs. 🥰🥰🥰
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 #hertripsabroad #solotravel #solotravelingisfun 
#blackgirlstraveltoo
I had such an amazing week in Doha, Qatar after no I had such an amazing week in Doha, Qatar after not visiting for almost 8years. 📍

#qatar #doha #qatarphotoinstagram  #solo travel #travelbug bestvacations igtravel travelpic travelblog beautifuldestinations tlpicks instatravel roamtheplanet traveldeeper travelgram travelinspo wanderlust instapassport exploretheworld travelpics travelmore passionpassport travelawesome lonelyplanet travelblogger travelphotography traveltheworld worldtraveler
Happy New Year, happy 2026 #firstpicture of the ye Happy New Year, happy 2026 #firstpicture of the year.
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A July Dreamer

A Travel & Lifestyle Blog

Fashion · April 29, 2025

Choosing the Perfect Diamond Engagement Ring: A Brilliant Guide

Popping the question is nerve-wracking enough without the added pressure of choosing the perfect diamond engagement ring for the momentous occasion. I have always wondered what type of ring I would want, sometimes I feel like I have an idea as to the shape but nothing else. But let’s be honest. Few things in life warrant such immense thought, consideration, and pre-planning as choosing an engagement ring. 

So let’s get you set up for the long-awaited one-knee drop. This guide will help you select a ring that’s as dazzling as your love story, all while staying true to your style, values, and, most importantly, your budget.

Popping the question is nerve-wracking enough without the added pressure of choosing the perfect diamond engagement ring for the momentous occasion. I have always wondered what type of ring I would want, sometimes I feel like I have an idea as to the shape but nothing else.

*Disclosure – this is a collaborative post.

Define Your Budget and Understand the 4Cs

First things first: set a realistic budget. Whether you’re planning a grand proposal atop the Shard or something more low-key in the Lake District, knowing your spending limits keeps the experience exciting rather than stressful.

Next, get acquainted with the 4Cs—Cut, Colour, Clarity, and Carat weight. These are the golden rules when it comes to assessing diamond quality.

And if you’re keen on making a greener, more ethical choice, lab-grown diamonds are rising stars. They offer the same sparkle as their natural counterparts but tend to be more affordable and better for the planet—a win-win for modern romantics.

Choose the Right Ring Style and Setting

Now onto the fun bit: style! 

When choosing a diamond, the options are endless. From classic solitaires to glamorous halo designs and romantic trilogy rings, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

If you’re lucky, your significant other might have already hinted at what they’d like. You’re on easy street! But if that’s not the case for you, we can help. 

Start by noticing the kind of jewellery they like. Notice if they prefer white or yellow gold, or if their style is vintage, classic, or more trendy. You’ll start to get the signs…

There is a growing love affair with vintage designs and coloured gemstone accents—perfect if you’re after a ring that stands out from the crowd. And let’s not forget the gentlemen; men’s engagement rings are having a well-deserved moment, too.

Consider the Benefits of Second-Hand Diamond Rings

Looking for something with a story to tell? Second-hand diamond rings are a treasure trove of unique designs, history, and—let’s be honest—serious savings. They’re also a more sustainable choice, ticking the eco-conscious box many modern couples value. There is a plethora of pre-owned diamond engagement rings out there that might just be the perfect match.

Verify Authenticity and Certification

Finally, always—always—check that your diamond is the real deal. Whatever you do, do not skip on the paperwork. Always ensure your diamond is authentic, backed by certification from reputable organisations. It’s your safeguard against accidentally proposing with a well-cut piece of glass. Trustworthy jewellers provide certification and peace of mind with every purchase.

Ready to Find ‘The One’ (the ring, that is)?

Choosing the perfect engagement ring doesn’t have to feel like a mission impossible. 

Stay true to your style, budget, and values—and trust in the experts. 

In: Fashion

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