Jan
12
Fun for the Groomsmen: Decorate the Getaway Car
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There are a few responsibilities that come with being in the wedding party. Although the best man is generally responsible for planning the bachelor party, getting everyone fitted for tuxes, getting the groom to the church on time (and sober), and giving a toast at the reception, the whole party is on the hook to make sure that the wedding and all associated events go off without a hitch. And the duties don’t end until the happy couple drives off into the sunset to start their honeymoon. Unfortunately, many groomsmen never make it past planning the festivities for the soon-to-be-married man’s last night of freedom (so to speak), which means they may not be ready for their final task: prepping the getaway car. And yet, this could be a lot of fun for the groomsmen willing to put some thought into the shenanigans and do more than paste a “Just Married” sign and some soda cans to the back of the vehicle. So here are just a few tips that can make the experience memorable.
The first thing you need to think about when it comes to decorating the getaway car is tact. You might be tempted to throw in a few suggestive items (a backseat full of blown-up condoms, for example), but while these might induce a chuckle from the groom, the bride may not find it very funny, especially if she has to climb into the back and winds up with lubricant all over her wedding dress. It’s not a very appealing thought. However, attention to detail and a little forethought can go a long way towards helping you to avoid such blunders. Now you just need to get creative. And there are a lot of ways you can add some pizzazz to the proceedings without getting gross.
For example, you could go fairly traditional with the outside of the car (sign, cans, etc.), but spice up the interior in a special or romantic way. Although not every couple has the money (or inclination) to hire a limo, you could help them to feel like they did by having one of the groomsmen throw on a chauffer’s cap to ferry them to their hotel (or other destination), and then put rose petals on the floor of the back seat, along with a bottle of chilled champagne in a bucket of ice and two glasses to sip it from.
Or you could go all out with a very special theme. Ask the groom about his first date with his wife-to-be. Get him to give you as many details as possible about where they went, including what they ate, the music they listened to, the movie they saw, and anything special that he might have said to her. Then use your newfound knowledge to decorate the inside of the car like their first date. They’ll both be surprised and the spark they felt during that first date will be carried down the road with them to their honeymoon suite.
You might know more about changing tires, bleeding brakes, or installing used Volkswagen engines than you do about decorating the getaway car for your just-married friend, but that doesn’t mean you can shirk your groomsmanly duty. Certainly you can get away with minimal effort (a few window markers and some beer cans tied on with string), but if you put just a little time into doing more, the grateful groom and bride will remember it for the rest of their lives.
Nov
25
Pearls or Diamonds for Your Wedding Day?
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Once you’ve got the major decisions made; you’ve chosen a dress, put a down payment on the venue, and found yourself an officiant; it’s time to turn your attention to the finer points of wedding planning. You’ll need to peruse photographers, select floral arrangements, and choose place settings (not to mention food and wine). And of course you’ll want to consider the accessories that will highlight and enhance your ensemble so that you look your absolute best when you walk down the aisle. Although you have many choices when it comes to selecting your jewelry, two types of adornment are traditional: diamonds and pearls. But how do you decide which is right for you?
In truth, there are just a couple of things you’ll want to take into account before making your decision between the two. You need to consider your dress, your own personal aesthetic, and the tone of the wedding. Let’s start with the dress. If you have chosen a dress that is modern, like a strapless corset gown, then you may want to stick to the modern feel by wearing diamonds. Ditto on dresses that are exceedingly understated. Diamonds provide a decidedly younger look and a little flash can enliven a dress that is simple and sophisticated. Pearls, on the other hand, will denote a certain amount of maturity while also fading into the background rather than taking center stage. So they work best with dresses that are more modest (think Grace Kelly’s gorgeous lace concoction) or frocks that are already adorned with embellishments.
Now you’ll want to consider your own personal style and preference. Are you outgoing and spontaneous or shy and retiring? Do you revel in nabbing the spotlight or would you rather operate behind the scenes? While it’s true that every bride becomes the center of attention on her special day whether she wants to or not, you can maximize the impact by throwing some bling into the works or tone down the flash by opting for much more conservative pearls. Every detail counts, so think hard about the amount of attention you want to draw (and what kind of attention you’ll incite with your ensemble).
Finally, you should choose pieces that are in keeping with the tone of your wedding. If it’s a lavish affair set to rival the recent royal wedding, then perhaps diamonds are in order. If, on the other hand, you’re looking for a quiet ceremony and reception restricted to only close friends and family and you can’t stand the thought of a major production, perhaps pearls are better suited to the style of your event.
Of course, you could mix it up by selecting pieces that feature both diamonds and pearls. There are no laws against pairing the two and you may be able to meet all of your stylistic goals by choosing a few pieces that put the best of both worlds together. Heck, if you’re daring you could even go all out and include colored gemstones (although this is a little risky since color trends come and go). As long as you take the time to consider the implications of your choices where diamonds and pearls are concerned you’re sure to come up with a look that is 100% right for your special day.
Sarah Danielson is a contributing writer for www.icingonthering.com located in the downtown Los Angeles jewelry district, where you can find a variety of loose diamonds and engagement rings.
Nov
14
Fashion Dos and Don’ts for the Big Day
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Every bride is cognizant of the fact that her wedding pictures are going to live in perpetuity, eternally displaying her fashion sense (or lack thereof). This is why choosing the right dress and accessories tend to be the most important aspect of wedding planning for most women. Of course, there is also the element of emotion to consider, and what bride doesn’t want to feel confident and gorgeous on what could be the biggest day of her life, when all eyes are on her? And while there are certainly plenty of magazines and websites packed with pictures of beautifully appointed brides, a good portion of women don’t look like the size-2 models that are professionally coiffed, shellacked, and lit to perfection. So here are just a few fashion tips for the real women out there that want to capture a look of timeless beauty on their big day.
1. The dress. There are only two things to consider when choosing a dress: is it flattering, and does it make you feel beautiful. Every woman has a slightly different shape and problem areas to contend with, but there is a dress to fit every woman. However, you do need to be a little bit realistic about shopping for your shape. You may have a picture from a magazine or one in your head, but if the dress isn’t figure-flattering, it’s not going to make you look or feel good.
2. Accessories. Your dress may determine the type of accessories you choose, including shoes, a veil, gloves, a handbag, and so on. And the best rule of thumb here is to keep the focus on the main event. If you allow the accessories to overpower the dress, you’ll end up looking like a muddled, white mess. So don’t do anything too fancy or over the top with the extras. Simple and understated is the way to go.
3. Jewelry. This is one type of accessory where you can add a little more visual interest to your ensemble and really highlight the fabulous features of your dress. Suppose you have a sweetheart neckline; a long pendant is the perfect accent. And if you have a higher neckline you can skip the neckwear and opt for drop earrings. A sleeveless dress may call for a bracelet or cuff of some sort. The idea is to choose jewelry that enhances the outfit, and you can even add some color as long as it’s suitable.
4. Hair. Funny enough, this will probably be the most personal aspect of your entire look. But even if you generally like your hair a little wild or punky, consider going with a classic and sophisticated look for your wedding day. Years down the road you’ll be happy you didn’t go for a trendy style that faded out like the fad it was.
5. Makeup. For starters, you should think about contact lenses if you normally wear glasses. Specs will hide both your eyes and the makeup you put on, but contact lenses will let everyone see your beautiful face (and still let you see theirs). From there you should keep your makeup as natural as possible while still highlighting your best features. It’s usually best to play up your eyes, so make them pop by opting for neutral tones with a touch of color that is opposite from your eyes. Girls with baby blues should go for taupes or grays while hazel or green eyes look best with hints of gold or lavender. And the brown-eyed girls should opt for deeper plum tones. As for cheeks and lips, a hint of color that is just slightly rosier than your natural shade is the way to go. You don’t want to look like a clown, and makeup that enhances your looks rather than changing them will still be appealing years from now, when you’re showing the photos to your grandkids.
Nov
3
Your Over-the-Top Wedding (on a Budget)
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Every bride wants her big day to be the best of her life (and if her groom is understanding he will try to accommodate). But most couples are under the constraints of a set budget, which means that planning a dream wedding might be out of the question. However, with a little planning, a few substitutions, and a lot of creativity, every couple can have the beautiful and memorable wedding day they desire (without dipping into the down payment for their home in the process). Here are just a few ways of making the magic for less.
1. Venue. It won’t be much of a party if you have no place to hold it, which is why most couples start by booking a venue. But if you’re on a tight budget you may be woefully underwhelmed by the spaces that are in your price range. Keep in mind, though, that it’s not so much the place you choose as what you do with it that makes it special. So think about renting a public space (like a park, for example) or asking a friend with a big house or yard to host the event. Then spend the money you save on over-the-top decorations.
2. Décor. All the little pieces that make up your décor are going to add up to a major expense, with furniture, place settings, and centerpieces topping the list of must-haves. But there are also many ways to save. If you don’t want the traditional table-and-chair arrangement, secure couches and side tables from a furniture rental place for more intimate seating. Then dot the tables with candles for mood lighting. You could also skip expensive floral arrangements and go modern (and inexpensive) with paper flowers, which you can create on your own with recycled paper (printed pages in black and white are super chic), pipe cleaners or bare wires, and patterns that can be found online.
3. The dress. The dress is a matter of great importance for most brides, but it can also become a major expense if you’re not careful or open to alternatives. If you’re like most women, you’re looking for the perfect dress, even if it’s out of your price range. But don’t fret: you can still have it (albeit without the label). Simply take a picture of the dress you want to a seamstress and have her recreate it for you at a fraction of the cost.
4. Eats. Catering can definitely be costly, but you can save by eschewing the standard multi-course meal (although you should note on the invites if you’re not serving dinner). You could host an afternoon tea, set up shabu-shabu stations, or even provide a dessert bar for something different and special. As for drinks, provide the basics (beer, wine, and champagne) and skip the open bar. And remember that most people buy their wine at the grocery store; it doesn’t pay to splurge when no one can tell the difference.
5. Entertainment. Over-the-top event entertainment calls for something special, but that doesn’t mean you have to hire a troupe of acrobats or belly dancers for the event. If you’re going to have a wait-staff anyway, why not opt for singing and dancing waiters (they’re all aspiring actors anyway, right?). Or hire a professional dessert chef to create your cake while guests watch and then get a DJ to pump up the jams on the dance floor. You don’t have to spend major money to go over the top with your wedding entertainment, and if you know performers you may even be able to finagle a freebie as a wedding gift.
Nov
1
Travel To-Dos before the Big Day
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Whether you’re taking a limo to the church and then staying local for the night, you’re getting a lift to the airport to hop a flight for your honeymoon, or you’re driving off into the sunset in a rental, there are a few arrangements that need to be made prior to your wedding day to ensure that you have the transportation you need at the right price. So here are just a few things you may want to add to your to-do list when it comes to planning for travel on the big day.
1. Book early. This is absolutely essential, especially if your wedding date falls during the peak seasons (summer, the holidays, etc.). As soon as you’ve booked the venues for the ceremony and reception, go ahead and find the car service that suits you. Whether you’re looking for a limo or town car or you’ve decided to seek something extra special like a classic convertible, you’ll likely be competing with a lot of other couples, so don’t wait until the last minute. If you just need a rental car for a quick getaway after the reception, you can probably hold off for a little while.
2. Read the contract. If you decide to go for the traditional limo, you’re going to need to read the fine print and ask plenty of questions so that you aren’t surprised by the company’s policies later on. You should find out up front if there is a minimum service requirement (some companies won’t rent you a car and driver unless you sign up for a minimum of 3-4 hours, for example). And don’t forget to ask about extra charges should you go over your allotted time for the day.
3. Plan for disaster. Although it is the driver’s job to know how to get you where you’re going and make sure you arrive on time, you may want to prepare for the worst. Road closures and accidents could leave you trapped in gridlock while all of your guests (and your fiancé) are waiting at the church (or whatever venue you choose for the ceremony). So map out alternate routes, plan to arrive at the church way ahead of time, check traffic reports, and call ahead to make sure your driver knows where to pick you up and that he’s scheduled to arrive on time.
4. Pre-pack for takeoff. At the end of a long and emotional day you’ll be in no mood to lug your luggage to the car. So get it safely stowed in whatever transportation you’ll take the airport or hotel when you arrive at the venue (while you still have some energy). And if you’re planning to head out for your honeymoon on the night of your wedding, make sure to pack a few snacks (your nerves might keep you from eating all day and you’ll probably be famished by the time you’re relaxing on the plane).
5. Designate drivers. Unless you decide that there will be no alcohol at your wedding, there are likely to be guests imbibing (some to an alarming degree). If you don’t want to get a call the next day about an accident or arrest, perhaps you should ask a few guests to be designated drivers – it’s either that or arrange for limo service or taxis for guests. Of course, if you’re jetting off on your honeymoon you may also want to ask friends or family to ferry some of your gifts back to your house so they’ll be waiting, intact, when you get back.
Oct
17
How to Pay for Your Wedding without Going into Debt
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Many couples end up going way over-budget on their wedding simply because they operate under the rationale that they’re only going to do it once and it has to be amazing. To that end, they are willing to put themselves into massive debt in order to have a huge and lavish wedding with tons of guests that they may not even know particularly well (extended family, friends of parents, colleagues, and so on).
But paying beaucoup bucks to secure designer duds, an overpriced venue, and a baker that has his own reality TV series just so you can stuff the faces of a bunch of people you don’t even know doesn’t really seem like a good way to start your new life as a married couple. So here are just a few ways to keep it real and create a special day that won’t leave you drowning in debt.
The first step you can take is to opt for an “intimate” affair that only includes close family and friends. Don’t listen to anyone who tells you that you HAVE TO invite someone who hasn’t made the cut. Some parents, in particular, are keen to jack up the head count to include extended family (some of whom you’ve probably never met) and their own friends. But keep in mind that this wedding is to celebrate your marriage, not theirs, so unless they’re going to foot the bill, they don’t get to dictate the guest list. Even if your parents are helping out, you need to draw the line somewhere. And don’t invite anyone from work unless you happen to socialize with them outside the office regularly and consider them close friends. Coworkers won’t expect an invitation so don’t feel like you have to extend one.
Next, you need to seriously consider prioritizing your spending. You’ve likely saved up some money for the event, but you may still be on a pretty tight budget. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t splurge here and there (say, on the dress or the cake) if you’re willing to make cuts in other areas (like flowers and the open bar). And actually, with so many couples giving up on traditional practices, there are a lot of ways to save on just about everything these days.
The dress, for example, doesn’t have to be designer in order for the bride to get the gown she wants. She can simply go to a seamstress with a photo and have a replica made for a lot less. For the reception, some couples are opting to do high tea or only a dessert bar rather than a full meal as a way to save (although this should be noted on invitations so guests don’t arrive expecting five courses). You can also DIY a lot, from making a sea of paper flowers (use recycled paper and it’s a pretty way to do something good for the environment while saving money). And the photography, entertainment, and other services may all be carried out by friends who are willing to donate their talents as a wedding gift, instead of paying for pricy pros.
In short, you don’t need to resort to an unsecured loan in order to pay for your wedding. In fact, if you’ve gotten to the point where you’re actually considering loans, you need to step back and think about how you want to begin your new life with your partner. If you don’t want to start out up to your eyeballs in debt, then you may need to push back the date in order to save more money, or else find ways to make your day special and personal without spending money you don’t have.
Oct
7
5 Ways to Make Your Wedding Memorable
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When it comes time to select the type of entertainment for your wedding reception, you might be hesitant to go straight to the wedding DJ. You don’t mind the idea of music and dancing; after all, it’s traditional. But you’d rather have something special and unique when it comes to the entertainment, something that says more about you and your new spouse and speaks to your own particular flair as a couple. In short, you don’t want your wedding to be just like every other one you’ve attended; you want it to be memorable. So if you’re wracking your brains to come up with something that is fun and entertaining for your guests (that they’ll never forget), here are just a few ideas to consider.
1. Theme wedding. Okay, so “under the sea” has been done ad nauseum. But there are cool and modern ways to incorporate a theme into your reception that will keep your guests entertained all evening. And you don’t need to go all Lady Gaga, either. One fun theme to consider is poker. You can hire a crew to come in dressed as dealers to set up gaming stations and teach guests how to play games like Blackjack, basic poker, Texas Hold ‘Em, Omaha, and even craps or roulette. You’ll have built in wedding favors with poker chips that have your engagement photo on one side and the date of your wedding on the other.
2. Fire dancers. If you want to make the reception a little wild, think about hiring fire dancers to perform. You can practically guarantee that nobody at your wedding has seen that at a reception in the past! As a cautionary note, this may be more appropriate (and safer) at an outdoor venue.
3. Flash mob. Many brides and grooms are now opting to hire a choreographer to teach them a special dance for their entrance, which they use to delight guests at their wedding. If you want to take it up a notch, consider getting the wedding party and the wait staff in on a flash mob to take place at some point during the reception. When the music starts, everyone in on the mob will make a beeline for the parquet to participate, only to disperse at the end. Your guests won’t know quite what happened, but they’re sure to be amazed by your mad skills on the dance floor.
4. Caricaturist. If you want to give each guest a truly incredible and personal wedding favor, consider hiring a caricaturist (or several if your guest list is large) to create fun, unique portraits of every person present. It’s a totally one-of-a-kind way to entertain your closets friends and relatives and ensure that they never forget your wedding.
5. Occult entertainers. If you’re interested in hiring a wedding magician but you’re worried that it won’t be enough, why not spice things up by including a palm reader, a tarot reader, and a psychic, as well? Any guests who are a little skeptical about the occult types can still be amused by the magician, while those who are more daring can have a personal reading done.
Sep
6
Romantic Honeymoon Destinations in Greece
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For most couples, their honeymoon is all about romance. Spending time together in a relaxing environment and experiencing all that life has to offer as a new couple is the number one priority. If you are looking for more than just a beach vacation, traveling to Greece for your honeymoon may be your best bet.
Athens
A site of cultural and historical importance, Athens has been a destination for many honeymooners. The small, intimate feel of the city provides you and your other half with hours of wandering through narrow streets and experiencing a totally different culture. Greeks tend to take eating very seriously, and you and your honey will be pleasantly surprised by large authentic Greek dinners eaten by candle light. As the capital city, Athens boasts some of Greece’s best and most modern hotels. Or, you can opt for a more traditional room in an authentic Greek villa.
Santorini
A small island off the coast of Greece, Santorini is a romantic honeymooner’s dream. The volcanic island provides an unexpected and breathtaking backdrop for your honeymoon. Outdoor hikes and excursions to see the many archeological sites and volcanic formations provide endless entertainment. If you just want to relax, you can take a trip to the black sand beaches, unlike any other because of their creation from volcanic rock.
Patmos Island
This island offers you a less populated destination, being a beautiful but less popular destination for honeymooners. This island, the site where the Book of Revelations was written by St. John, offers charming seaside towns and small villages. The romantic arrival to the island by boat is also an unbeatable way to start off your honeymoon.
Corfu
This Greek island provides a honeymooner with a taste of the very best Europe has to offer. Though a part of Greece, the island’s culture has been heavily influenced by Naples, Paris and Venice to name a few. The multicultural island offers honeymooners some tasty restaurants and all kinds of shops to enjoy. This island seems to encompass all of Europe’s most romantic places.
Cyprus
Though not a part of Greece, Cyprus is a tiny country to the east that has become one of the most popular tourist destinations. Honeymooners flock to Cyprus for its beautiful beaches, favorable climate and five star resorts. Cyprus villas offer couples their own private space on the beautiful coast line. Just a short trip from Greece, it has much cultural influence and offers a wide variety of Greek inspired cuisine.
Planning your honeymoon can be just as important as planning your wedding. A stress free and relaxing vacation as a new couple is an essential start to being a new couple. Greece offers a combination of history, culture, beauty and divine relaxation to honeymooners. Remember that planning a trip abroad comes with much responsibility. If you don’t already have your passport, get the process started as it could be a lengthy one. Read all of the airline’s instructions about what you can and cannot bring into the country and on to the plane, and be sure to find out about emergency policies in the place you decide to travel to.
Aug
9
Perfect Wedding Hair Prep
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Perfect Wedding Hair
Long before your wedding day you’ll be busy making plans; securing a venue, hiring the officiant, the photographer, the caterer, and so on. You’ll send out invitations, select the wedding party, and work out seating arrangements. And of course, you’ll find the perfect dress. But your job isn’t done yet.
As the big day gets closer you’ll have to start attending to the small details, like your jewelry, makeup, and hair. And although you probably have a hairdresser lined up to tame your mane on the day of your nuptials, there are a few things you should do in the weeks and days leading up to the ceremony in order to ensure that you hair is prepared for the onslaught of curlers and hairspray. Here are a few preparatory steps to consider.
1. Styling. You might be so bogged down in the details that you simply keep pushing off the decision about how to do your hair. This is a mistake! Make an appointment with your stylist at least several weeks before the wedding to talk about the game plan. Have her try several styles (and bring in your veil to test it with the looks) as a way to determine what you like best. Take photos (front, back, and side) to show your fiancé, mother, and bridesmaids (and to refer back to yourself). This will give you plenty of time to get opinions and make your decision before it’s time to commit to a hairstyle. Also, you can bring back the photo of the ‘do you decide on as a way to refresh your hairdresser’s memory.
2. Color. One to two weeks before your wedding date is the best time to get your hair colored (if you keep it colored). If you haven’t colored your hair before, you should try it several months ahead of time to see if you like it. But if you’re used to coloring, just stick with a shade you know you like. Don’t use the event as an opportunity to try blonde if you have been a brunette for years. If you don’t end up liking it, you could spoil your big day (and the photos). The reason for giving it a couple of weeks is twofold. First, it gives you a chance to make changes should you be unhappy with the color. Second, hair color looks more natural with 1-2 weeks of growth (giving depth at the crown). Unless you plan to have a severe part in your hair, color early.
3. Cut. This should be done at least a week beforehand, even if it’s only a trim, so simply schedule it in with your coloring. The reason is because freshly cut hair looks, well, freshly cut. Giving it a week to grow a fraction of an inch will leave it looking natural, but neat. Again, avoid doing anything drastic that you might regret every time you look at the wedding photos.
4. Treatments. In the few days leading up to the wedding you should think about undertaking treatments that will make your hair strong, soft, and glossy before you hit the aisle. If you’re having problems with frizz from various chemical treatments, you may want to try hydrating masks, but another option to consider is a Keratin treatment that can help the recovery process. Just make sure to ask your salon if they use formaldehyde-free processing.
5. The big day. Now that all the arrangements have been made, it’s time to relax and enjoy a little pampering. Before you reach the altar and vow to spend the rest of your life with someone else, say “I do” to the perfect hair that’s going to complete your timeless wedding ensemble.
Oct
19

Your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life - you will want to look your very best. Finding the ideal ring, pendant, and earrings for the big day can add polish and beauty to your overall appearance. For some brides, choosing the perfect bridal jewelry can be a great way to pull the whole look together. However, it can be difficult to find exactly what’s right, since there are so many choices out there in the marketplace. With our guidelines, you’ll be able to make the right choices for your face, figure, and wedding theme. Here are some tips and tricks you can use to select lovely bridal jewelry that enhances your wedding dress, hair and makeup on this very special occasion:
Choose A Theme - Every bride-to-be has an image in her mind - this “dream” can be very helpful when you go shopping for bridal jewelry. If you plan to wear a sleek, modern dress, look for pieces with simple, sculptural lines that echo the feel of your gown, veil, and shoes. For example, sterling silver or white gold pieces are often more modern and sophisticated.
If you’re looking for old-world beauty with a historical or romantic feel, then you may enjoy the traditional appeal of yellow gold. Antique jewelry that honors your ancestry can be a wonderful way to add vintage style to your wedding ensemble. If you’re of Irish, Welsh, or Scottish heritage, you may be interested in handmade Celtic jewelry that incorporates ancient symbolism.
Some examples of this include: trinity knots (symbols of the Holy Trinity), Claddagh symbols (crowned heart and hands; a symbol of love and loyalty) or Celtic warrior shield designs (symbols of strength and faithfulness). Look at your own heritage, and any old-fashioned elements in your gown - then search for jewelry that offers the same style.
Consider Your Face And Figure - In general, taller, bigger-boned women can carry bolder jewelry designs. Larger pendants, heavier earrings, and rings with wider bands will flatter this type of figure. Smaller, more delicate builds will look better with feminine, more petite bridal jewelry. Facial structure also plays a role - fuller faces will look longer and slimmer with drop or chandelier earrings and long necklaces. Slim faces will look fuller and more youthful with stud earrings or shorter necklaces, such as chokers.
Your coloring should also factor in when you choose your necklace, bracelet, etc. For women with yellow undertones, gold will add radiance and complement a warm skin tone. Women with blue, or cool, undertones will look best in white gold and silver. Two-toned gold designs can flatter everyone, and they also have an added benefit - they will match anything they are worn with on, and after, your wedding day.
Unique tones, such as rose gold, with its pinkish glow, can also be romantic choices for bridal jewelry.
Add Glamour With Gemstones - Gemstones can add shimmer and sparkle, whether they are precious or semi-precious. Rubies are often a symbol of passion and romance, and they echo the flush in the cheeks and the glamour of reddened lips - sapphires are a symbol of purity, and they play up pretty blue eyes. Emeralds can be lovely with hazel or green eyes. If you can’t afford the precious stones you love, consider semi-precious stones, such as topazes or milky-white moonstones.
Adding a little glamour with a gemstone pendant can be a great way to get the most out of your money, and these necklaces will highlight your wedding gown’s bodice so well. Pearls are also classic choices that always lend creaminess to the skin.
Look For Quality And Authenticity - Bridal jewelry doesn’t have to cost a fortune, but it should never look cheap. Nothing looks worse than a beautiful gown and costume jewelry! Your wedding day should be a time to pamper yourself and feel your most beautiful - this goal is most easily attained when you splurge on pieces that are made by hand and from the very best materials.
To ensure quality and authenticity, look for stamps (also known as assays or hallmarks) on every piece your consider. If you’re ordering online, simply check the jeweler’s reputation, and find out whether or not their jewelry is stamped properly. The best jewelers will always have this information at the ready for their clients, and they will be there to answer any questions (via email, phone, etc.)
If you’re concerned about ordering online (due to sizing worries, etc.), don’t worry too much - today, sizes are standardized, and it can be easy to follow the jeweler’s instructions and get a perfect fit. The important thing is finding quality pieces that fulfill your dreams.
Listen To Your Instincts - This is your big day - you must be happy with your choices. Taking advice from friends and family can be helpful, but, ultimately, it’s all about what feels good to you. You must feel confident and beautiful when you walk down the aisle.
The best way to make this happen is by listening to your instincts, and gauging your emotional reactions to your bridal jewelry. Does it make you feel special? Do you enjoy looking at it, again and again? These clues can be the first hints that you’ve found the perfect bridal jewelry for your wedding day!
This article has been exclusively written for Your Wedding Days, by Leigh Maher of Irish Celtic Jewels: the online bridal jewelry store, specializing in Celtic engagement rings and wedding bands.
