Giftkone-TP Blog

GIFTKONE NEWS PSOT, Wedding Arrangements

2022-09-14T16:14:00.002-07:00

This edition of Giftkone News talks about How to throw the most fun wedding ever! Last minute planning details not to forget and some cool Romantic Engagement Photo Ideas so I decided to title this edition Wedding Notes. The wedding arrangement page here at Giftkone is also loaded with plenty of helpful wedding ideas. In other Giftkone News, I have also included some wedding invitations and wedding decoration ideas from one of my affiliates for you or your wedding planner to browse. Our new H.G.Art 15% off coupon expires in a couple of days so don't let this discount opportunity pass you by especially if you're in the market for some really cool decorative wall art.

My artwork is available in several different sizes and prices and is ready to help you decorate your bedroom, living room, bathroom, woman's, or man-cave. One of the good pieces of feedback I have received is that just about all of my art pieces can be matched, wall art that can blend with your shower curtain, or duvet cover. Throw pillows and rugs that can also blend and be matched with the wall art you chose to make your DIY home decorating fun. If you are nearing, or over the age of 50 be sure to check out my new Over 50 page at the top of the page under Fashion Ideas on the Giftkone website. The new (Over 50) page contains lots of encouraging and inspirational quotes for people reaching the half-century mark and is loaded with pleasant reminders that at age 50, you're not too old and it's not too late to enjoy life. How to throw the-most-fun wedding ever!

Have you picked a wonderful venue, a mouthwatering bill of fare and breathtaking decor for your wedding? Seems like a recipe for an amazing celebration! But what if, halfway through the reception, your guests start to feel… sort of bored? You don’t want your wedding to bomb but want it to be a blast (And so do we!) So, we racked our brains to figure out how to make it possible and this is what we came up with.

Style: #COZK16001, Image Credit: FM Photo Studios

1. Understand that pretty isn’t an emotion

The venue, the food, the décor – all of it paints a pretty picture, but very little of it contributes to the real experience of the big day. Trust us, we’re not talking you out of investing time into decorations that make you happy or shelling out big on a venue you always wanted to get married at – because we advocate all of those things! We say this so you can invest your time and money planning the kind of fun experience you actually want on your big day.

2. Pick an awesome location

By an awesome location, you might assume we are talking over-the-top venues like Venice or the Bahamas. We are not. The exotic factor of a location has very little to do with how fun it is. You and your guests may actually find casual and laid back locations more fun! - think your favorite restaurant or a brewery.

Style: #LD3906, Image Credit: White Studio Project

3. Choose a kickass theme

Much like your wedding gowns, when it comes to wedding theme ideas, the possibilities are endless. Your imagination and creativity can play a big role when planning for one. And, of course, it doesn't always have to be expensive. For example, if you and your loved one had been to Las Vegas and enjoyed the fun and excitement of playing craps, slot machines and poker, you can also have a wedding based on your Vegas experience. Or if you want more fun for your guests, you can throw a Hawaiian luau for a reception and serve roast pig, tropical fruits, seafood, pina coladas, and other Hawaiian treats. Sounds fun, right?

4. Make your reception a PARTYYY…

Okay, this one’s pretty straightforward. Work out what makes you love a fun party, and then try to incorporate that into your big day. Binging on "the hard stuff"? Dancing till your feet fall off? Knock yourself out.

Style: #CWVT15002, Image Credit: Captured by Shane

5. The guests come first

The most important element of your wedding is undeniably your guests. Think about this: when your big day is over, what will you be thinking and talking about? It won’t be your floral arrangements or your favors – it'll be the people you caught up with, the conversations you had, and the vibe of everyone present. So, no matter how big or small your wedding, you should always think about your guests first. Everything else comes second.

a. Balance things out

If you want to make sure your guests are comfortable and having a great time at your wedding, you must try to balance what you love and what your guests will love. If that means mixing some pop into your folk rock playlist, so be it.

b. Make your guests feel taken care of

Your guests are essentially putting six hours of their lives in your hands, so it’s only fair that you feed them well and seat them somewhere nice. But, is that really all you can do? Certainly not! There are many other ways you can take care of your guests – you can provide welcome notes at the venue, name tags, and a seating chart. Small gestures like these can go a long way in making sure your guests are comfortable and having a great time at your wedding.

c. Spoil your guests with fun favors

One thing you most likely want from your wedding favors is that they are not only practical but fun too. You want your guests to really be glad they've received this memento from you to remember your wedding day and how special it was for not only you but for them too. So, what are some fun favors you can choose from? How about ice cream scoops or maybe a cute coffee scoop? You can also consider candles or personalized luggage tags.

Image Credit: Michelle Valentine Photography

6. Serve delicious food

Feed your guests. Timely. With tasty food. Hungry guests are not the most fun, after all. Avoid boring traditional ‘chicken/roast/fish with soup and salad and go for sinful meals with no expense spared on the spread. Or how about a food truck? That’s certainly a far cry from your standard dry chicken and/or roast beef, won’t you say?

7. Color your bridal party

Gone are the days when the bridal party could only wear pastel shades and traditional wedding colors. Nowadays, bright, bold and fun colors like red, orange, fuchsia, hot pink, purple, and yellow can add to the fun of the whole wedding event. Just be sure to coordinate the color of the bridal party wear to the motif of your wedding. Even if you’re wearing an elegant white ball gown wedding dress, the color pops from your bridesmaids’ dresses will stand out and add to the overall “fun” appeal of your big day.

Style: #LD4567 & # COZF15048, Image Credit: Teresa Photography

8. Do a music video

OK... it sounds lame right? But, have some fun. Never again will you be dressed up in a beautiful mermaid wedding dress and look as amazing as you will at your waiting. Take advantage of the situation by having fun with it. Have your entire wedding party lip-sync to your favorite song and have your wedding videographer edit the clips. You’ll be amazed at the results. Even with all of these fun wedding ideas, perhaps what is the most important tip we can give you is that if you want your guests to have fun at your big day, you need to let go and have a great time yourself. If you're enjoying, they will enjoy. If you're dancing, they will dance. If you're having a blast, they will too.

Minimalist Terracotta Bohemian Wedding Invitation

Rust Terracotta Flowers and Pampas Grass Wedding Invitation

Rustic Baby's Breath String Lights Wedding All In One Invitation

Rustic Barn Wood Twinkle Lights Lace Wedding All In One Invitation

Budget Marsala & Navy Rustic Wedding Invitation

Rustic Navy Blue Geometric Wedding (no ENV needed) All In One Invitation

Last minute planning details not to forget

Planning a wedding is a difficult task as there are a million small details that need to be worked out before the big day. Even if you have been absolutely on top of the planning, a few things can still slip through the cracks. Do you wake up in the middle of the night in a panic thinking that you have skipped something important? If yes, then you know exactly what we are talking about here. But don’t worry! Once you go through this down-to-the-wire wedding planning checklist, you can put your mind at ease knowing that you have everything under control.

Style: #LD5066
Image Credit: Bright Photography

1. Check in with vendors

Reach out to all your vendors to confirm everything and go over the details a few days before the ceremony. All of your vendors should be aware of the date, the exact time, the venue and the number of guests arriving. Remind them of any special arrangements you could have made ahead of time. You should also provide them with a phone number (not yours) in case any additional communication needs to take place during the wedding day.

2. Finalize the guest count

At least a week before your wedding, reach out to any guests who may be dragging their feet with an RSVP. If the first message does not elicit a response, it is absolutely fine to leave a second message a few days later that politely states that if you do not hear back from them by a certain time then you will have to assume that they are unable to attend the wedding.

Image Credit: Wah Photo

3. Wrap your wedding favors

Something else which is not usually done until the final days before the wedding is wrapping the wedding favors. If at all possible, save yourself some stress and try to get this done at least three weeks ahead of the wedding. You would not believe how many brides stay up late the night before their weddings wrapping favors (it always takes longer than you expect).

4. Plan a bridesmaids’ luncheon

When you are taking care of the last-minute details, don't forget about planning a bridesmaids' luncheon. The luncheon is normally held two or three days prior to the wedding ceremony and is the perfect time to thank all of your attendants for being in your wedding and to give them their bridesmaid gifts.

Styles (from left to right): #PR3263 & #LWZT15040
Image Credit: Olivia Caine Photography

5. Pre-arrange your honeymoon

Your honeymoon will be the trip of a lifetime, and the last thing you want is any kind of snafu along the way. So make sure your bags are packed and that your tickets and passports are handy. Plus, when doing your honeymoon planning, pay in advance for as much as you can. Incidental expenses like tips and souvenirs are manageable, but if you slip up on budgeting for hotel taxes, spa treatments, or car rentals, you can easily outrun your budget on site.

6. Do a final outfit run through

Schedule your dress fitting a week or two ahead of the wedding. Go to pick up your beautiful wedding dress and make sure that it looks exactly the way you want it to. If needed, you may want to have a couple of last minute alterations. You should also have your wedding shoes picked up by now. Practice walking and dancing in them. Make sure that the shoes are comfortable enough since you will be having them on all day long.

Style: #LD3906
Image Credit: Mcfarlane Photography

7. Rehearse!

The rehearsal for the wedding ceremony is typically held the day before the big affair. To make your rehearsal run without a hitch, sit down and decide in which order you would like to have your attendants fall in, and which groomsman and bridesmaid will be paired together during the recessional.

8. Finalize your vows

All that's left on the list now is the dreaded task of speaking your own vows and unless you want to make your vows off the cuff, write them down and practice what you have to say during the wedding. You see, making grand statements about your love in large public settings isn’t always the easiest thing to do.

9. Make sure to put aside some "you" time

Even if it does not seem to make much sense to just sit back and be at ease for a bit, what with all the things that need to be figured out but considering what day it is going to be, you don't want to have a bridal meltdown.

Double-check your list, remember to breathe, and everything will be okay!

Wedding Rehearsal Dinner Elegant Sunflowers Decor Invitation

Signature Cocktail Drink Menu Wedding Decor Sign

Eucalyptus Green Foliage Wedding Welcome Sign

LOVE IS SWEET! WEDDING SIGN DECOR

Simply Typography Modern Wedding Welcome Sign

Custom Photo Wedding Welcome Foam Board

Romantic Engagement Photo Ideas

Are you getting engaged soon? Congratulations!! We, here at COCOMELODY, wish you a lifetime of pure happiness and love… oh, and a lot of romance – that stuff is important too. Now, have you thought about hiring a photographer for your engagement photos?

Not yet?

Okay, we know your engagement photos are most likely not on the top of your priorities, what with all the arrangements you have to make – from planning your wedding budget and estimating your guests to deciding on a date, a venue and of course, your wedding gown. However, engagement photos are really worth it!

Don’t forget, your engagement photos are likely going to be the last snaps of the two of you together – as lovers – before you become a married couple eternally. Engagement photos can also give you an insight into how your wedding frames will turn out. Oh and not to mention, you also get some wonderful Instaworthy pictures. Sounds fantastic, right?

Here, we have rounded up 10 romantic engagement photo ideas as a starting point for you.

Style: #CWUT16001
Image Credit: Brianp Studios

1. First date, again

Nothing feels like the first few dates where both of you were falling in love with each other. Or you were probably only flirting, but hey, that counts too! You can recreate and live over those memories by going to where you had your first date, wearing what you wore that day (or something similar) and having your pictures taken.

2. A park

Isn’t park a cliché venue for couple photo shoots? To that, we say, “yes!” But there’s a good reason. Parks are classic venues that can result in some of the most romantic photographic moments. Just picture yourself walking around in your lovely long sleeve wedding dress holding hands with your boyfriend…in a beautiful park with fragrant, colorful flowers everywhere.

Style: #LD3905
Image Credit: Onelove Photography

3. Piggyback ride

This one’s old but gold. Have your sweetheart sweep you off your feet and carry you away - an age-old symbol of the groom whisking the bride away from the family and into their new life together. This will surely loosen up the stressful atmosphere and add fun and romance to the hustle and bustle of your wedding planning.

4. Ring in focus

You have splurged so much on your wedding rings; you might as well keep them in the frame. An aesthetic shot of your rings can also make for a great cover for your engagement photo album too.

5. Recreate movie scenes

If you consider yourself to be a movie buff or you simply want to add a lively and fun approach to your engagement photos, you could go for some well-known movie poses: maybe do a Titanic pose on a cruise ship? What could be more romantic than that?

Style: #LWKF15003
Image Credit: Manifesto Photography

6. No peeping!

Leave a little to the imagination and don’t let your partner catch even the slightest glimpse of your face. Cover his eyes with a book, a fedora or even your hands! These endearing shots will lend a unique and fun vibe to your engagement photo album.

7. The little things

They say it's all in the details: the way your hands touch or the way you look at each other. Naturally, these easy-going candid shots will produce some very romantic engagement photographs.

8. To the shores

If you want your engagement photos to exude a laid-back, bohemian vibe, then you definitely need to hit the beach. Intimate stills of you and your man looking like you are having the time of your lives on the sandy shore will undoubtedly be amazing.

Style: #CWUT16001
Image Credit: Brianp Studios

9. Home sweet home

Every so often, the best place to have your engagement pictures taken is your own home. After all, home is where the heart is. You can be comfortable and have your pictures taken at your favorite spots around the home to make the photo shoot even more special.

10. What lies ahead of you

For an incredible last photo of your engagement album, you should have a shot to make everyone think about your future together. Wear a gorgeous lace wedding dress and get a picture of you with your partner's hand in your hand, and both of you looking into the horizon in the silhouette of a bright sundown.

If you appreciated these engagement photo ideas, don’t settle for just that. Your engagement photos are all about you and your significant other so don't shy away from adding in your own inputs to make the shots exclusively "yours."

Elegant Black Marriage Photograph Wedding Vow Art Faux Canvas Print

Elegant White Marriage Photograph Wedding Vow Art Faux Canvas Print

custom wedding photograph monogram commemorative wood flash drive

CD sleeve for photographers or wedding favors Envelope

Custom Photograph Indian wedding Save the Date Announcement Postcard

Cute Minimalist Will You Be My Bridesmaid Photo

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Modern Photo Wedding Thank You Favor Stickers

How To Avoid Being A Bridezilla

2022-06-09T02:35:00.000-07:00

Every so often, the stress of coordinating the wedding details brings out the worst in even the most laid-back brides-to-be, making them demanding and obnoxious women who do not give a hoot about the people they hurt to get exactly what they want on their perfect day. We have all heard of these not-so-nice brides.

You may swear it will not happen to you, but sure enough, you will find yourself arguing fiercely with your fiancé about how your gorgeous A-line wedding dress is not the right size or just generally ranting and raving, and being impossible to deal with on your big day. If you do not want to find yourself slipping into the all-too-familiar “bridezilla” syndrome, here are some tips that may come in handy.

Style: #LD5190
Image Credit: Colleen Kleinberg photography

1. Get back to basics

In the rush and frenzy of getting the wedding ready, you may really fail to keep sight of what your wedding is all about. You may get tangled up in a mountain of details and forget about the person you are getting married to. Get a hold of yourself. Try to take your thoughts away from your expanding to-do list, and shift your focus to the emotions that set this train in motion – the feelings you have for your fiancé and the “why are we doing this?”

Spend some quality time with each other and make sure that you only have non-wedding conversations throughout your pre-wedding date. When talking about your future, allow the exchange to go beyond the wedding day and into your life together as a married couple. It is a great way to nurture your relationship and remind you of why you are about to do this in the first place.

2. Turn the conversation around

When you broke the big news, you may have heard a barrage of "buffet or sit down?" and "what will your wedding gown look like?" And again, all of a sudden, all conversations seem to lead back to those surface details. If those around you start to get carried away with the planning details, it is only understandable that you will follow suit. Instead, steer conversations about your wedding toward the personal and emotional aspects, such as how you feel about getting married or how you expect your personal relationships may change.

Style: #CWVT15002

3. Tame your list of details and expectations

Trim things back to fit in with your time frame, budget, and emotional health. Get a grip again on what is truly important to you. Let some things go. Keep what is important close to your heart and allow yourself to make some mistakes.

4. Learn to delegate

Part of the reason brides-to-be are notorious for wedding-related antics is that so much of the event´s success rides on their shoulders. But with the expanse of planning that goes into a wedding, help is always a necessity! So, do not be reluctant to delegate the planning tasks to relieve some of your burdens. Your future husband is your safest bet; allocate some wedding planning responsibilities to him. Entrust small duties to immediate family members or your bridesmaids (the key word is small - you do not want to turn former friends into bitter full-time wedding planners). And if that is still not enough, you can consider enlisting the help of a certified wedding coordinator.

Style: #LD4472
Image Credit: Kati Solwold Photography

5. Accept the myth of "perfection"

Be mindful of the fact that there is no such thing as a “perfect wedding." Sure, you may have the perfect wedding gown in the form of that modest lace dress with sleeves you bought, but with so many details coming together, there are almost always hitches behind the scenes. What many brides do not realize is that these hitches almost always go unnoticed by wedding guests. Learn to accept that many factors are simply beyond your control and try to remind yourself that in the end, these uncontrollable details do not really mean anything.

So, you failed to bring it to mind and momentarily turned into a bridezilla. That is okay. Just give yourself a break here and let things go with the flow. If you and your fiancé are enjoying the day, your happiness will shine through everything else and make your big day even more wonderful.

Keeping your Wedding simple as possible

2022-04-24T13:17:00.000-07:00

For the Wedding Ceremony Minimalist

Do you want a wedding that feels more like a celebration of your union rather than an extravaganza? If yes, then you must try to keep your wedding details as simple as possible. A simple, intimate wedding with a small group of friends and family will allow you to genuinely enjoy your big day without the anxiety that comes with entertaining hundreds of guests.

No matter how simple, when planning your wedding, you will no doubt need some guidance and a lot of hand-holding. So, we are here with some important tips to help you plan a simple and beautiful wedding.

Style: #LWXT14048

1. Guests, guests, guests

We know it is your big day, and you are so overwhelmed with joy that you are ready to shout it from the rooftops for everyone to hear. But, in your excitement, do not arbitrarily begin inviting everyone you are in talking terms with. While cutting that distant cousin Sylvia or your great aunt Eva whom you last saw when you were five years old is tough, paring down your guest list will be worth it.

2. Consider a destination wedding

What better way to ensure your wedding is a simple celebration than by having it far from home? Having a destination wedding will immediately pare down your guest list as only the closest friends and family members who are willing to travel the distance will be in attendance. Plus, it will offer you an once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to travel together with people you love the most.

3. A no-fuss wedding gown

Your wedding is set simple, so it would look a little out of place if you were in something ultra fancy. But what counts as a simple dress? Simple wedding dresses are just that, simple. You will know it when you see it; there is little or no embellishments and not a lot of beading, trim, lace or any other type of adornments. There is no fancy train either; the most common silhouette for this type of dress is A-line. An A-line wedding dress has a fitted bodice and flows out from the waist down and looks absolutely stunning. When it comes to buying simple wedding dresses, online shopping is the way to go. Online stores carry a good selection of simple yet sophisticated wedding gowns, so you can pretty much find one on any budget.

Style: #LD3906
Image Credit: Ashley Baumgartner

4. An intimate venue

Forget massive churches, overused reception halls, and huge ballrooms, and consider more creative and simple places to get married like a chapel, garden, historical house or building, inn, bed and breakfast, winery, art gallery or even your favorite restaurant. Sure, these are not your typical wedding venues, but with a little bit of creativity and some thoughtful planning, you can transform these venues into the perfect setting for your wedding.

5. DIY invitations

Most readymade invites are impersonal. DIY wedding invites, on the other hand, have a sentimental aspect. DIY wedding invites are a fun, creative and unique way of giving your wedding a flair and style that will stand out from other weddings. Do away with the bland and generic design of store-bought invites and go for DIYs.

Image Credit: Leah Marie Photography

6. Keep your bridal party small

A large bridal party for your simple, intimate wedding is not going to go well. Coordinating with them can be stressful. It makes more sense to keep your bridal party small so that you can celebrate your big day stress-free. But what if you have a lot of siblings or too many close friends from whom to choose? Well, there is no law that you have to have bridesmaids! You can opt not to have any type of bridal party.

7. Even the small details matter

Just because you are having a ‘simple’ wedding does not mean you can afford to turn a blind eye to a few small details. In fact, you need to pay more attention to every aspect of your big day as there is not going to be a dense crowd or extravagant gestures to disguise unattended details. Your tiny list of guests will notice every detail of your wedding day.

It is easy to get caught up in the idea of a fancy wedding and all the trappings but if you want to look back on having a great time with your friends and family and not the stress of planning your wedding, it is best to have a simple, stress-free wedding.

Putting together a Wedding Seating Chart, Stress Free

2022-02-17T01:30:00.000-08:00

Giftkone News

There are many big decisions to make when planning your wedding: date, location, wedding gown, invitation list, and so much more. But one of the most harrowing arrangements has to be the seating chart. Who is sitting at the head table? Where are you seating your boss? Will Aunt May and Uncle Bob's divorce be finalized? All these questions and so many more make this arrangement seem more complicated than it needs to be. Don't throw in the towel! Sit down with your fiancé one evening and it will all work itself out.

Who sits at the head table?

Of course, the seating arrangement of the head table is your first and, quite possibly, your easiest decision. How do you want to seat your groomsmen and bridesmaids? Do you want to pair them? Do you want to have all the bridesmaids on the side of the bride and the groomsmen beside the groom just as they were in the ceremony? Do you want parents and grandparents at the head table? Or would you prefer to simply plan a romantic table for two like in a Parisian cafe? It could be just the two of you, or your whole bridal party could be at small tables around you. Do not hesitate to enjoy planning the seating chart for the head table. A little originality could go a long way toward making your wedding celebration unforgettable.

Style: #LD3734, Image Credit: Wah Photo

Designing the seating plan for the rest of your guests is a bit more challenging, but with persistence, you can find a practical arrangement. So, once you have decided who sits at the head table, follow these tips for the rest of your guests:

1. Keep groups together

If you are expecting a large number of guests where one side of the family has not met the other, you can try and mix it up a bit so the respective families of the bride and groom get a chance to mingle. However, that still could get a little tricky so you can try to seat them by age, personality, similar interests or occupation, or whatever makes the best sense to you and your future spouse. What’s important is that you want all of your guests to be comfortable and have a good time and if they are seated with people they can find something common to talk about, which makes it much better for everyone.

2. Disperse solo guests throughout your venue

Avoid throwing single guests together at one table. One to two singles per table should be sufficient, but make sure they have common interests with those that they are seated with.

Image Credit: Mcfarlane Photography

3. Split up divorced couples

To avoid conflict, separated or divorced couples should be seated at different tables...even if they get along. Sometimes painful memories can be triggered at weddings, causing unneeded conflict.

4. Consider guests with special needs

Extra consideration should be given to reception seating when planning your seating arrangements for special-needs guests. Obviously, walkers, wheelchairs, crutches, etc. need special attention, but, also, keep in mind that your elderly guests will need to be seated close to the restrooms, and moms with babies should be placed where they can make a quick exit, if necessary.

5. Not all of my guests have sent back their RSVPs? Can I still seat them?

Wedding seating arrangements mostly rely on who has responded and how many people are in the party. But sometimes people still forget about the RSVP, even if they have been sent Save the Date cards well ahead of time. So, to get your seating arrangements set up definitely, you will have to get in touch those that have not responded yet; give them a call, drop them an email, send them a Facebook or MySpace message, whatever is the fastest and surest way to get a response. Explain to them that you are not trying to "nag," and you appreciate that they are probably very busy and it is just an oversight, but for the head count for the caterer, you really need to know if they are planning to attend and how many will be in their party.

Style: #LD2676, Image Credit: From The Smiths Photography

Just like choosing between a lovely lace mermaid wedding dress or an elegant A-line wedding dress, designing a seating chart for your wedding reception is difficult if you do not have a plan. Likewise, you need a straightforward understanding of tradition and how the rules of decorum impact your choices. It is difficult, but it is also valuable because a wedding meal often lasts for two or more hours. As a result, your wedding will have the greatest likelihood of success and the smallest potential for a disaster if you carefully consider your seating arrangement.

Anti-Aging Secrets

2021-10-21T22:30:00.000-07:00

The best way to prevent aging is to eat plenty of healthy foods and exercise because doing so keeps your muscles, and the skin on top of them, healthy. There are also some really good anti-aging products available that are loaded with the ingredients responsible for the development of healthy skin and healthy skin cell growth. One of the all-natural major substances found in just about every anti-aging product is vitamin C. Tree Of Life offers this skin revitalization set that includes a vitamin C brightener for the morning with retinol to renew while you sleep and Hyaluronic acid paired with green tea extract for a powerful antioxidant skin protector.

A good sunscreen and moisturizer are the two most effective anti-aging products and the clinically tested retinol in this three-bottle set that resurfaces the skin while the jojoba, aloe, and vitamin C work at the same time to moisturize and soothe the skin in this certified cruelty free, vegan formula with no parabens. Aging causes us to experience a loss of facial glands and that results in less oil being produced, a chief cause of moisture in the skin.

Some of the other ways to take care of your skin and to increase the anti-aging effect on your skin: cleanse your skin gently, stop smoking, reduce your intake of alcohol. Other helpful suggestions are, if possible, exercise most days of the week, and eat a well-balanced, healthy diet. It would also be helpful to protect yourself from the sun every day and apply self-tanner rather than get a tan.

What I have found helpful is a good night sleep and trying to include more anti-aging food into my diet. Lots of veggies, and fruits like Avocado, pomegranate, fatty fish varieties for the omega-threes, preferably cooked in extra virgin olive oil. Flaxseeds and Green Tea for its high antioxidants that protect against free radicals.

While we may not be able to actually reverse the aging process, we can at least slow the effects of aging way down, healthy people look younger and in a lot of cases live longer. Take from the above all that will fits into your schedule/diet to help you achieve youthful looking skin, skin that is soft, smooth, and supple and of course well hydrated. Healthy looking skin with rich cells that renew relatively rapidly because they are well nourished.

Non White Wedding Dress Trend

2021-10-20T16:53:00.000-07:00

This post explores the idea of the non-traditional wedding dress for anyone entertaining the idea mixing a little traditional with non-traditional for, a memory and an experience that will last a lifetime.

Would you consider wearing a black or a pink dress on your big day? Not too long ago, bridal gowns other than white, champagne, or ivory shade were virtually unheard of. But non-white dresses have begun to slip into the bridal market for the past few seasons, and we love it! As a matter of fact, pastel and nude shades have become some of the most well-received wedding dress trends of this year.

Here, at CocoMelody, we are obsessed with offbeat, non-white wedding gowns. Not only are they gorgeous but are meant for a bold bride who is eager to fly in the face of the tradition. With that said, we are excited to offer an array of dresses that are unique and chic for brides who are not willing to keep up with the bridal white tradition.

1. If you want to make a bold and dazzling statement when you are walking down the aisle, you may want to look at shades that look excellent at all times of the year and go beyond all the seasons. These may include pink, orange, or coral red. But of course, you do not have to color block everything. On the other hand, you can consider mermaid wedding dresses with red coral and pastel pink embellishment in the corset area as it can beautifully express the rustic and unique backdrop of your big day.

2. Another non-white trend we simply cannot get enough of right now has to be gold, which is odd because in the days gone by, the thought of having any gold featured on the wedding dress really put some brides off. But the bridal penchants have most definitely taken a glittering u-turn since and today, this spectacular metallic shade is one of the most desirable wedding gowns styles among soon-to-be brides. Popular bridal gown style – A-line wedding dresses look especially dazzling in gold.

3. We are also smitten with the vintage styling of lace wedding dresses in neutral blue. Bold red lips, minimalist pearl jewelry, and an elegant updo – all enhance this flowing and exceptionally stunning look, with not one hint of a white bridal gown in view. So effortlessly glamorous!

4. And let’s not put away pink. Pink tones are historically considered the shade of love and passion. So why would you not want to be dressed in the most passionate color on one of the most romantic days of your life? The color pink is linked with passion, grace, charm, delicacy, and love. Pair that with a classic and timeless ball gown wedding dress, and there is not a single thing that can stop you from looking drop-dead gorgeous. Again, going colorful does not mean having to be dressed in an all-out block color. Smart use of ornaments and colored adornment can drastically improve the look of your wedding gown.

5. A black dress will work wonders for brides who want to look absolutely special for their big day and go against with what is customary. If you too want to stand out in your wedding gown, a black gown would be perfect. It will certainly exude a different kind of elegance and grace.

The best part about wishing to put on a non-white wedding gown is that you can spread out your limits of exploration much further than your local bridal boutique. A non-white wedding dress does not exclusively have to be a bridal gown and so you can incorporate designer dresses and evening or special occasion wear into your shortlist of potential dresses, awarding you much more choice ranging from inexpensive high-street designs to more lavish gowns.

On top of that, your maid of honor can sport just about any color: conditional on what you will be putting on. Pastels in any tone flatter a blush or beige dress nicely. For example, lavender, grey, blue, and mint. Or you could have bridesmaids wear white, black, or ivory for a less conventional look. Some other in-demand bridesmaid dress tones are metallic shades of silver, champagne, and gold. All of these shades look wonderful matched with a rosy or neutral non-white wedding gown and will make your wedding special and unforgettable.

So, what do you think? Would you dare to wear a non-white dress on your big day? Well, you may want to give it a try once, and for all you know, you might just fall in love with a colored bridal gown!

Street Style Fashion Ideas

2021-10-19T20:38:00.000-07:00

Great looking streetwear is a style of clothing that became global back in the 1990s. If you’re into following particular brands and trying to obtain limited edition clothing you will absolutely love the collection of clothing styles offered by my Giftkone affiliate LovelyWhoesale.

What defines “streetwear” is a wide variety of influences like hip hop, K-Pop music, sports, and haute couture fashion. The casual dress code is way less formal than business attire. In the business environment, I have seen the casual dress code extend itself to blue jeans every day while at the same time saying no to sweatpants.

Casual wear for women usually refers to a look that is relaxed and comfortable, the uncomplicated hassle-free look includes skirts, t-shirts, and jeans anything that feels and looks comfortable and takes the edge off a fancier outfit. You'll find all of that and more in this streetwear collection to close out your summer and get you ready for Winter 2021.

Keep in mind that you can still mix stylish and casual to look great just use a little contrast to make your outfit choice POP! Example dress in all black and add a white tie, belt, or shoes, don't be afraid to wear all of the above with an all-black outfit. Pair a light top with a dark bottom, or a light bottom with a light top or, how about a tight top mixed with a billowy dress or skirt?

Your casual style choices are virtually limitless when it comes to the different choices of outfit combinations offered above. A loose-fitting top and a pair of skinny jeans can also work well together if for some reason you run out of ideas on your own.

Another thing I have noticed is, that many people want to have their own identifying look when it comes to going street style fashion, they want to separate themself from others when it comes to their style and choices in clothing. Well, the good news is you can surely find something that you can build your very own street style brand of fashion with, in the fashion ideas shown above.

Repair deep face wrinkles and fine line

2021-10-18T21:51:00.001-07:00

Toute Nuit overnight beautification and facial relaxation for your skin. The way Toute Nuit works is the tape and patches relax your underlying facial muscles, as a result, flatten out deep-set wrinkles and fine lines on your face when used on a regular basis. Pronounced “Toot New We” a French expression that means “every night” which is by the way the best time to use this facial treatment. The tape and wrinkle patches are a safe-and-natural way to do away with and prevent wrinkle lines on your face.

8 ways to plan a same sex wedding

2021-03-27T04:27:00.001-07:00

The U.S. Supreme Court struck down all state bans on same-sex marriage on June 26, 2015, legalizing it in all fifty states. So, if you're in a same-sex relationship and want to take things a step further, there can't be a better time to announce and celebrate your love than today. On that note, if you want to make your wedding a unique and unforgettable experience for all of your guests (which you obviously do), then you have to do things a bit… differently. With that said, here are eight ways you can make your same-sex wedding distinctively yours and something people won't be able to forget.

Style: #LWKF15003

1. Keep the invitations interesting

Let’s start off with invitations, shall we? In a typical wedding, the couple has their names printed on the invitation as the hosts. Your invitations don’t have to be so penny plain. You can add a rainbow-colored “With Love” on top of the invite and perhaps two bow-ties or two tiaras followed by your names. And how about a pride flag? If you want to stand up and align yourself with those who are choosing a courageous and just path, this is the way to go!

2. Play with traditions

There’s no set formula for any traditional wedding ceremony, but there are a few key components that normally take place. When you have a same-sex wedding, however, you can choose between adopting and ditching all those traditions you don’t think have a place in your big day. Want to sing to your partner instead of reading vows? Go for it. Want to share a wedding party rather than having separate bridesmaids and groomsmen? Totally your call… This is your day, so do what your hearts' desire to make it personal.

Styles: #LD3932 & #CWXT14061

3. Be creative with the professionals

It’s a time-honored tradition for the bride's father to walk her down the aisle. But what do you do when there are two brides or two grooms? There are a number of options: One partner can wait at the end of the aisle while the other walks or is escorted down, you can walk down together, or you can create a seating arrangement with two aisles that convene at the altar. Do whatever is most comfortable for both of you.

4. Wear anything you want

When it comes to wedding attire, you can wear anything that’s uniquely and unquestionably you! Women may choose to don identical traditional princess wedding gowns or more contemporary A-line wedding dresses. If budget is a concern, you can also buy your custom wedding dress online. Men can wear identical tuxedos or a nice suit with coordinating neckties.

Style: #LD4902, Image Credit: Sabrina Fatal Photo

5. Put a creative spin on the ring exchange

Wedding rings are one of the biggest parts of the wedding ceremony, and you have the choice between the traditional and the bold designs such as two males intertwined or curvy females or two symbols of Mars. Oh, and you can totally ditch the rings if both of you would rather have bands.

6. Not the usual venue, please

Many same-sex couples play with the idea of renting the clichéd wedding venues (just strike off Christian churches from the list). But since being in the LGBT camp is about being out in the open and being real, wouldn't it make more sense to hold the wedding in unique locations such as forest parks, lakesides, underwater, or on a yacht? Think about it!

Styles: #LD3832, #CWLT1302B, #CWXT16003 & #CWLT13090

7. Time for the sweet tooth

When it comes to same-sex wedding cakes, these are some of the options you can make allowances for long-lasting cakes such as fruit cakes; cakes with liqueurs; or cakes with fillings. The most common same-sex cake toppers are two men in tuxes or two brides dressed in gowns. Just remember to refrain from going too overboard with the same-sex symbolism. After all, you want to celebrate the day, not only promote a cause.

8. Give your guests a unique memento of your day

Because same-sex unions are just getting their mitts on popularity, you may not find many wedding favors unique to your wedding on the market today. Having said that, there are a few favors which can highlight the pride of your union very well. You can choose from “rainbow-inspired” mint tins, chocolate bars personalized with your names and/or wedding date, candy puzzles, place card holders and bears. Lastly, these are only some ways to make your big day more unique and unforgettable and the final decision on what to adopt and what to dump should still rest on you, the couple. You can literally do whatever your hearts’ desire.

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by Weddings_Forever

Planning a Bilingual Wedding

2021-02-24T23:37:00.000-08:00

One of the many wonderful things about modern times is that when it comes to choosing a partner, we are much less constricted by ethnicity, religion or nationality than our parents were (thanks social media!) Our world has evolved into one big global community and this means that more and more, multicultural/bilingual elements are enriching weddings in intriguing and innovative ways. Including those elements, however, can sometimes be a logistical challenge. Anyone who has planned a bilingual wedding joining two or more distinct cultures knows that if you are not careful, more than the wedding colors may clash. And you thought shopping for your wedding dress was going to be the challenge.

It is not a simple task to seamlessly blend cultural, religious and geographic traditions into your own modern wedding, but it is not beyond the bounds of possibility either. Here are six practical tips to help you sketch out a bilingual wedding guaranteed to impress all your guests.

Style: #LD5054

1. Hire the right wedding planner

One of the most effective ways to make sure that your bilingual wedding planning is seamless and uncomplicated is to work with a wedding planner who is fluent in both languages and familiar with both cultures. Such a wedding planner will be able to adequately communicate with your wedding guests and make sure that everyone feels more comfortable with the proceedings and customs.

2. Write in both languages

One language is traditional for physical paper goods (save-the-dates, official invitations, ceremony programs and menus), but your wedding guests should receive them in their native language. It goes without saying that they are not a necessity, but they can serve as a welcoming gesture. For that reason, make sure your physical paper goods are easily understandable to both crowds. You can either opt for one unique design that consists of the same message in both languages on the paper goods, or make separate sets – one in each language. Oh, and you do not have to have scruples about adding imagery or decorations from both cultures in your paper goods either.

Style: #CWXT14061, Image Credit: Gina Purcell Photography

3. Hire a bilingual officiant

Your wedding ceremony is the heart of your big day – but it can also be the most challenging to translate. Of course, you would want all of your multicultural wedding guests to howl their eyes out at your vows but you would not want to repeat every word twice, would you? In this case, hiring an experienced bilingual officiant would make sense. They will be able to seamlessly incorporate both languages at different moments in the most meaningful ways while keeping the wedding program coherent and succinct.

4. Incorporate clever signage

Your bilingual wedding is the perfect excuse for you to make your big day extra unique. You can set up custom signage in both languages to give your guests directions, showing the seating chart and/or pointing the way to the restrooms and details on where to catch your shuttle.

Style: #LD5693, Image Credit: Shaimaa Eissa Photography

5. Keep speeches short

For the sake of keeping things simple and straightforward, let’s assume that anyone delivering a speech at your wedding is going to do so in their native language. While you cannot get rid of some amusing "What did he say?" moments, you can encourage the speakers to be concise so that the other half of your wedding guests does not feel lost or tuned out for more than a minute.

6. Honor your unique backgrounds

Food, music and dance are universal and just as good as words when it comes to understanding another language or culture, if not better. So, take advantage of your cultural differences by having both cuisines represented in your wedding buffet and infusing reception entertainment with your rich cultures. Maybe try to incorporate elements from both cultures in your wedding gown and your bridesmaids dresses. Even if a linguistic mash-up did not work at your wedding ceremony, this can help throw light on the wedding customs of each culture.

Style: #LD4622, Image Credit: Dennis Roy Coronel Photography

It is true that hosting a wedding for guests who do not speak the same language runs the risk of many people feeling out of the loop, but there is no point in pushing yourself to the limit trying to spell out every detail of your wedding in two languages. Keep in mind; the best parts of a wedding are the ones that need no translation – the hugs, smiles and joyful tears. So, plan well and let things go with the flow.

Memorable Mr. & Misses First Kiss

2021-01-07T16:11:00.000-08:00

Giftkone Lifestyle Fashion Art

"Always remember this: A kiss will never miss, and after many kisses a miss becomes a misses." – John Lennon Remember your first kiss? You thought about it for weeks, rehearsing the day in your mind. You thought it would be spontaneous, meaningful and perfect. When the actual time came, you close your eyes and leaned in. Your mind was racing with nervous anticipation. The planets aligned, birds sang and it was everything you dreamed it would be. But then again, it may have been awkward and you may have chuckled, bumped teeth or just failed to hit the mark all together. Fast forward to today. You have a history together. Kissing has taken on a new meaning, and you just wish the birds outside your window would wait until 9 AM to start their incessant chirping so you could get some good sleep. And then he pops the question. Congratulations, you now have the perfect chance to redeem your long-lost kiss. Only this time, it’s for the world to see... And it should be beautiful, worshiped... and unforgettable. It’s kind of funny to think about, but this is the kiss that will kick off your whole marriage. So, if your goal is to create a wonderful memory along with a memorable photograph, then here are six tips to have the perfect first kiss at the end of the ceremony.

Style: #LD3906, Image Credit: McFarlane Photography

1. No Tongue, please

The most important rule regarding the wedding day kiss is the “No Tongue Rule.” Save the bedroom kissing for the honeymoon. Here's a cardinal rule of weddings: "Don't gross out your guests." Not only is this rude to your guests, but the last thing you want on your wedding day is for someone to yell, "Get a room!" The only things you need to swap at your wedding are the rings and vows. But don't do a little peck like you’re kissing your granny, either. You want everyone to see the kiss and have the whole crowd have time to let out a collective "aww…" Just don’t play tonsil hockey up in front of everyone, that’s all we are saying.

2. KISS - Keep It Simple

Okay, the other "S" is just to make the acronym work, but just like your wedding gown, consider keeping your wedding day kiss simple. Gaze into each other's eyes, move in slowly and as your lips begin to make contact, close your eyes. It’s important to talk about this ahead of time because you want to be on the same page for photo purposes. Make sure both of you agree to the eye arrangement because just having one of you with your eyes open won't be too photogenic.

Style: #LD4432

3. Go easy on the lipstick

You don’t want your soon-to-be husband to end up with bright red lips right after the kiss and look like a clown. You don't want him to have to wipe his mouth up there at the altar. And you certainly don’t want your lipstick to be all smeared and smudgy right after the kiss. So, go with light lipstick or perhaps just a little clear lip gloss in order to avoid the situation where your partner slips and slides all over your lips on a thick coat of lipstick and things get… sloppy.

4. Take a mint!

Please be sure that you both have brushed your teeth with minty toothpaste the day of your wedding. If you've been snacking before your wedding so that you don't get lightheaded in the wedding venue, be sure to have a mint before your walk down the aisle. You don't want any bad breath going on during the kiss, do you?

Style: #LD4567, Image Credit: Funny Stuff

5. Be comfortable

The big wedding kiss is a really fun part of the ceremony. It's also a part of the wedding that's completely up to the two of you! Don't try to do something that's out of character for you. Go with what feels comfortable and natural. That, and your wonderful A-line wedding dress, is what's going to make the moment special for you and your guests and make for the best pictures. And now comes the best part…

6. Practice, Practice, PRACTICE

Figure out which way your heads will lean. Work on hand placement. The more practice you get in before the wedding, the easier and more natural it'll be during the wedding. There also won't be any surprises. Surprises may be wonderful on birthdays and Christmas, but the last thing you want on your wedding day is a surprise!

Style: #LD3832

Let’s seal it

So, at the end of the day, pulling off that perfect wedding kiss is really easy – much like your elegant lace mermaid wedding dress. Keep your tongue to yourself, keep it simple, put on light lipstick (or none at all), smell nice, let loose and practice like there’s no tomorrow. By practicing and perfecting your wedding kiss before the wedding, you can share with your guests just how important this day is to you and how you want everyone to remember it - beautiful, meaningful and unforgettable.

5 ways to pee when wearing your wedding dress

2020-09-21T02:25:00.000-07:00

Weddings come with their share of challenges and one of the most understated issues is to find an easy way to pee while wearing the wedding dress. With the wedding nerves kicking in, brides often find the urge to visit the washroom at odd hours. Now, that can be quite an annoyance, but don't worry- we're here to share five ways you can pee hassle-free while wearing your wedding dress!

Style: #LD4493
Image Credit: Michelle Valantine Photography

1. Ask For Help

This may sound ridiculous but it is perfectly fine to ask your bridesmaid or your maid of honor to accompany you inside the stall. That way you’ll have at least one extra pair of hands to help you lift your dress and prevent it from getting dirty or drenched. However, they’ll be in their bridesmaid dresses too so make sure they don’t ruin it while helping you protect your own. Ideally, you can have two of your friends lifting the dress from either side. This works best if you have a private restroom or a single-occupancy bathroom.

2. Hygiene First

Ask your entourage to wash their hands before touching your dress to ensure there’s nothing that can stain your dress. Before you enter the bathroom, make sure that the bathroom floor is dry and free of dirt. Regardless of how long your train is, your gown is going to be dragging a bit. Also, it’s better you leave your drinks outside. You wouldn’t want your bridesmaid elbowing your delicately balanced raspberry sorbet all over your dress while you struggle to manage your business inside the tiny stall.

Styles( from left to right ): #COZF1500B & #COZF1500F

3. Opt For The Handicap Stall

If you are using a public restroom, use the handicap stall. It will be more spacious as compared to the other stalls. This means you or your bridesmaid don’t have to risk sticking to the walls while handling your wedding dress. Moreover, these stalls have bars and additional handles mounted on the wall that you can use to steady yourself.

4. Face the wall

Another helpful tip you can try is to pee while facing the wall. This way the back and train of your gown will be away from the toilet and it will also prevent you from accidentally peeing on your dress. Moreover, if you’re not comfortable having your entourage inside the stall, facing backward will prevent you from being overly self-conscious.

5. Figure Out Your Strategy

The most common (and hassle-free) way of peeing in your wedding dress is to lift your dress all the way up to your chest and hold onto it while you pee. It prevents your dress from touching the floor as well as picking up unwanted bathroom germs. This works well for ball gowns and A-line wedding dresses. However, if you have a tight-fitting dress in a mermaid or body-hugging style, you’d want to take it off entirely. Each round can take about 15 minutes, and if you plan on taking off the dress entirely, about 25 minutes so plan your strategy accordingly.

Style: #LD4533

Sometimes the best way to use the washroom is to plan a bathroom schedule along with the bridesmaids. Before the ceremony, during the lull between the ceremony and cocktail hour, and after the toasts are all good options to schedule your washroom visits. It’ll cut the stress and prevent you from having to bolt during an important moment. Even if you are super-prepared, your bridal bathroom break will be nothing like you expected. So, take it easy, don’t stress too much and everything will work out just fine!

Gender Neutral Fashion

2020-09-12T03:52:00.001-07:00

For anyone who has gone shopping to add to their gender-neutral clothes closet or to look for a clothing gift for the gender-fluid/gender-neutral person, you know, shopping can be complicated. However, it doesn't really need to be when you know which fashion centers offer clothing fashion designed with the gender-neutral shopper in mind. The new startup company Re-Inc headed by U.S. World Cup Victory, soccer-star Megan Ripenoe is setting up to do just that with their cool gender-fluid fashion designed to reimagine the status quo.

Unlike a few years ago when someone out shopping for a gender-neutral suit, to wear to their wedding, might have been humiliated and or disappointed by clothing choices and the attitudes of the status quo then. Nowadays gender-neutral fashion options and fashion ideas are plentiful. Over the time I have been offering gender-neutral clothing ideas on my Pinterest and the Giftkone website it has dawned on me that just as knowing there are more gender-fluid outlets out there in cyberspace is helpful and that it would also help to know where some of these gender-neutral locations are. It would not be surprising to me to learn that many of these places are already on your list.

Places like the Banana Republic and Wildfang are good places to find good gender-fluid fashion and fashion ideas for the androgynous masculine-presenting shopper in search of the gender-free look in fashion. In places where things are still labeled men, women, boys, and girl's it can be a little intimidating and anxiety-producing if you're a member of the LGBTQ. For that reason stores like Target and Nordstrom have crated no gender basted sections in their stores.

The face of contemporary fashion is changing and from what I have seen on the red carpet and fashion show runway it's never been more fashionable, or more acceptable for gender-fluid fashion to grace these places. Gender fluid men going more feminine in fashion in a schoolgirl skirt, gender-free women releasing the tomboy inside of them with their gender-neutral fashion choices, as those in the anti-status quo fashion world appear eager to entice a younger audience that is not afraid of gender experimentation in fashion and style.

So whether you identify as gender-neutral, gender-inclusive, gender fluid, or genderless masculine and flamboyant new clothing fashion designs are being created to make you look and feel like yourself, and the innermost gender you desire to express in fashion and style. Gender-fluid fashion is making its way to gender-free clothing shops and stores nearby you and here online, and the driving principle behind the new gender-inclusive clothing designs is individuality and functionality.

More and more fashion brands are starting to ignore the status quo blueprint of Pink and Blue, the traditional colors associated with male and female, and embrace the rainbow mermaid gender fluidity of the generation Z-ers, millennials, and the LGBTQI+ community in search of good looking nonbinary clothing choices.

Plus size figure flattering Wedding Dresses

2020-08-29T18:27:00.003-07:00

Wedding Dresses

Fashion has come so far for women, especially for plus size women. The days are over that you have to hide between oversized dark robes. Social media, body-positive movement, and the change of time have made it possible for plus size women to feel confident about how they dress and feel. Being plus size and a CocoMelody bride myself, I want to assure you that no matter what size you are, you will look absolutely stunning in your wedding dress on your big day! I promise!

Style: #LD3932

Image by Andria Lambert Photography

CocoMelody offers a wide range of sizing and styles. It does not matter if you are a size 0 or 28 if you are looking for an A-Line or Trumpet/Mermaid style, CocoMelody has you covered! Not only does CocoMelody offer this wide spectrum but if you want your dress to fit like a glove, custom sizing is also available! What I enjoyed the most about my wedding dress was that I was able to customize certain features of the dress. E.g. if you desire a closed-back instead of an open back, CocoMelody can alter to your wishes. CocoMelody caters to you and wants you to look and feel your best. Personally, I believe any style of dress looks great on any body type, there is something feminine, sweet, and elegant about dresses of any style. If you would like to know more about the styles CocoMelody offers for plus size brides, please keep on reading.

1. A-Line Silhouette

A-Line wedding dresses gradually flare from the natural waist to the floor, floating from the thigh and giving you that airy fairy-like feeling. Further styles that fall under A-Line are Ball Gown and Princess, think big and poofy.

Styles ( from left to right): #B14A0052 #LD3832 #LD4902

Images by ( from left to right) Beverley Studios Breanne Bradshaw Photography Heatherlyphoto

2. Mermaid

Mermaid wedding dresses usually come with a corset closure which shows off all your curves. They hug your waist and hips and flare from your knees, which will give you that hourglass silhouette. I like to consider these the long version of cocktail dresses.

Style: #LWVT1400C

Image by Nicole Schiessl Fotografie

3. Sheath/Column

Gowns in the style of Sheath/Column are cut to follow your body’s natural shape, due to its straight lines it may also have a lengthening effect. This style is very contemporary and sleek.

Styles ( from left to right): #CWZT15008 #LD3734 #LD4722

Images by ( from left to right) Ginarelli Photography Jaimedavisphoto Markgreenstudios

4. Crop Top

If you think crop tops are a thing from the ’90s, then look again! Crop tops can be very flattering and can accentuate a small waist. Although these dresses might look like two individual pieces, they are usually connected by a very sheer fabric to keep everything in place. This is great for those who want to show some midriff but not too much.

5. Asymmetrical

Although one might not see it often, asymmetrical wedding dresses are still out there. Asymmetrical does not necessarily mean high and low cuts, which have certainly become a trend in the last years but also mean a lot of layering.

Style: #CWLT16003

Image by Jessica Cunningham Photography

Magazines, commercials, social media, etc. can try to put you in a box and dictate what you should wear but at the end of the day, it is all about you and the confidence and happiness you want to showcase, especially on a day as special as your wedding! Do not let rules define you, embrace yourself, and be as glamorous as you want to be because true beauty comes from within!

Boho Wedding

2020-07-12T17:55:00.002-07:00

Without any doubt, your wedding gown is among the most important outfits you will ever have to pick out. Luckily, there is a wide range of exquisite wedding dresses for every season, and for every bride. But this is also where you are going to run into your biggest problem. See, the luxury of selection can also make choosing the perfect bridal gown a challenging task, especially if you don’t see yourself walking down the aisle in a traditional princess gown.

Don’t worry, though! We have got just the right dress style for you – bohemian!

For the most part, Boho bridal gowns use detailed lace and chiffon. These fabrics are excellent if you are hunting for a dress that can complement any type of wedding – a fun, laid-back nuptials, or a more romantic, perhaps even a grand ceremony. Light, flowy, and free-spirited, bohemian wedding dresses are as comfortable as they are beautiful. The essence of Boho style is tasteful, natural, and timeless. This explains why it is one of the hottest wedding dress trends for this year.

If you have decided to show off your personality on the most important day of your life with a beautiful Boho wedding dress, think about the following:

Sleeve Style – Strapless, off the shoulder, spaghetti, capped, three-quarter length, and long sleeve wedding dresses: there are just so many sleeve styles to pick from. You would want to gravitate towards the style that can complement your figure the best.
Neckline – Would you rather have a modest neckline or something a little more daring? Take a look at different necklines and make up your mind on which one will do the trick for you.
The back – A lot of Boho style wedding gowns focus on the backside of the bridal gown. Find out if a low-cut back style is for you or would you rather go for keyhole cuts.

If you are searching for the perfect bohemian wedding dress for your big day then look no further, we have covered. We have gone through the Internet with a fine-tooth comb to come up with these three most beautiful and versatile bohemian wedding dress styles for you. So without further ado, let’s dive into our top picks!

1. A-line wedding dress

Avant-garde a-line wedding dresses are elegant and perfect for any bride. If you want to blend the clean lines of a bohemian style with a touch of grandeur, then there are no two ways about it - an A-line dress is for you. Soft, romantic, and light, an A-line dress is made for an easy-going, relaxed, and laidback bride. If you want to go for an organic bohemian look, you can consider dresses adorned with lace swirls and beading. An intricately detailed illusion-tulle back design and a small train will top off the look for a Boho-inspired celebration.

2. Mermaid wedding dress

If a figure-flattering silhouette is what you are after, then a mermaid dress is perfect for you. Mermaid wedding dresses may very well be one of the most easily distinguishable wedding dress silhouettes, but they are unbelievably versatile, and when paired with a bohemian style, they look absolutely flawless. For a gorgeous and dramatic wedding look, pair your lovely dress with a detachable, beaded belt and a sweetheart neckline. Add a pastel bouquet and a beaded hairpiece to put the finishing touches to your bohemian wedding look.

3. Lace wedding dress

There is definitely something enchanting about lace. The limitless versatility of this timeless fabric has long been the starting point of inspiration for a huge assortment of bridal dress styles. A lace wedding dress is the perfect brew of classic style and comfort with a touch of sexy that not only highlights your natural beauty while making you look stunning on your big day, but also keeps you comfortable throughout.

We are confident that the above style ideas have charged you with inspiration for your own Boho style wedding gown. The most popular trend in bridal gowns is all about fun, fresh looks that are a wonderful addition to any free and easy wedding celebration. Whether it is a countryside ceremony or an upscale city nuptial, with a Boho wedding gown, you will surely achieve the perfect look for your perfect day!

DIY your own Wedding Hashtag

2020-07-12T02:11:00.000-07:00

Hashtags are a thing of the twenty-first century that is if you are talking about the modern ones. Who remembers when the hashtag was known as “number symbol” or “pound sign”? Nowadays it is hard not to mention something without a hashtag.

As social media becomes more and more prominent in our everyday lives, hashtags have skyrocketed into becoming the modern link to pictures, images, gifs, memes, etc. By setting a hashtag in front of a quote, you can easily find hundreds and thousands of pictures related to your search. This can certainly make your quest for inspiration easier and faster because you have many options to choose from and it is all done by one click.

Although some brides might decide to keep their wedding private and only restricted to those who attended, there are many brides who decide to do just the opposite and display as much as they can from wedding preparations to the final result. Wedding hashtags are a fun way to involve everyone in your wedding, it does not matter if it is friends, friends of friends, family, extended family, people who will be attending or not. Everyone will be informed of your wedding progress as it comes along if they look up your hashtag.

Hashtags have become so popular for weddings, events, birthdays, etc. that there are companies that will create your own individual slogan professionally so that you can be certain that it will be one of a kind but keep in mind that they may come at a cost. If you would rather come up with something yourself or would rather not spend your budget on a customized one, then go for it. In addition, there are free hashtag generators that can make the search much easier or can help you get an idea.

Here are a few possibilities on how to come up with a fun hashtag for your big day:

Wordplay (last name: Denzel/ e.g. #DenzelInDistress)
Favorite Movie Quote (last name Scott/ e.g. #BeamMeUpScott)
Make a poll on social media (see how creative everyone can get, you would be surprised!)
Think of puns, inside jokes and alliterations
Portmonteaus (e.g. Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie #brangelina)
Personalize with a quote you and your future husband live by
Keep it simple (try using easy to spell words and names)

The key to using a hashtag successfully is to make sure that it is known and remembered by everyone! How to do that you may ask? It is actually fairly simple. Have your hashtag printed on your Save-The-Date cards, wedding invitations, napkins, programs, etc. A nice way to also keep it memorable is to have signs set up at the tables.

In the end, it does not matter if you hire someone to make your wedding slogan or if you sit down and get creative with it if it is long or short, is funny or serious. What matters is that the hashtag has meaning for you, your future husband, and your special day. #ThisIsYourHappilyEverAfter

Ring Bearer Tips

2020-06-24T15:36:00.000-07:00

It may sound like a broken record at this point but planning for your wedding is anything but easy. Unless you are fully prepared (and honestly, even if you are fully prepared), you may forget to attend to some of your most crucial wedding preparation needs – like the veil to complement your wedding gown, the bouquet and the wedding rings, or more precisely, who will carry them. We know that a significant amount of time, effort, and money go into picking out wedding rings. Of course, no couple can cope with the emotional (and financial) stress of a broken or lost ring on their wedding day, which is why you need to choose a well-behaved ring bearer who is cautious enough to handle your rings during the ceremony. But how can you possibly ensure whether the little one you have chosen to be your ring bearer can conduct himself or herself in an appropriate manner? Well, here are some tips that might come in handy.

Style: #LD4432

1. Consider the child’s age

So you have made up your mind that your 2-year-old nephew will be your ring bearer? Amazing! We are sure everyone in attendance will go “aww…” as he toddles down the aisle. But no matter how adorable the whole picture may look in your head, remember that the younger your ring bearer is, the more it would be challenging to control them. So, make sure that the ring bearer is 'old' enough to take care of your wedding ring. Etiquette states you should choose a ring bearer who is at least four or five years old.

2. Consider his personality

No matter how much you want a special child to be a part of your big day, it is not fair to them if you fail to first consider their personality. In addition, their excitement on being asked to play a part in your wedding party is no indication of how well they can handle the responsibility. Remember, a young child responds mostly to the excitement of your voice, so you will get a happy "YAYY!" from them whether you ask, "Do you want to be my ring bearer?" or "Want to help me find the right mortgage?" Ensure success by choosing a child who is: Confident: Your ring bearer may plop down mid-aisle and express his displeasure at the top of his voice. This actually happens more often than you would like to think. While it may be humorous to your guests, you would probably want things to move smoothly on to the main event. To avoid your ring bearer from freezing or bolting, make sure they are not too shy and can handle being in the spotlight.

Image Credit: Chasing Light Photo & Video

Patient: Ask yourself whether the child you have chosen can stay in their seat all throughout the wedding ceremony? After all, their task is not only to walk down the aisle with the rest of the entourage looking all adorable but also to bring the wedding rings to the priest or celebrant to be blessed and worn by you and your partner. The little angel must be able to give the rings on cue. You do not want everyone looking for the rings and the ring bearer right at this time, do you? Not too playful: Your ring bearer’s mind should be in the ceremony and not looking for chums inside. The church is not a playground. In addition, you wish for a solemn wedding, which you can only have if you pick a kid who is not too full of beans.

Image Credit: Shardey Olynyk Photography

3. Ask their parents for help

Once you have a child in mind for the ring bearer role, talk to their mommy or daddy and ask them to help you keep the little one calm and orderly on the big day. The presence of one of the parents may help the child feel secure and curb any potential misbehavior. You can ask the parents to keep a watchful eye on the child and the rings. After all, kids are kids and there are a million things that can catch their attention.

The last word

Remember, in the end, they are just children and children are kind of unpredictable. Add in an audience and all that excitement and you might have a meltdown on your hands. So, expect the unexpected, but do not let anything ruin the way your ceremony proceeds. Wear your dream wedding dress – whether that be a ball gown wedding dress or an A-line wedding dress, look beautiful, feel beautiful, be satisfied that everything turned out wonderfully, and just enjoy the day!

Anti-Aging Skin Care

2020-06-24T03:50:00.000-07:00

Let me start by saying that Covid-19 has really brought life to a stand-still in a lot of places with Covid-19's effects extending all the way out here into cyberspace, forcing many online businesses to adjust to this new and unsettling trend. In some way, the trend is good because, with more people at home and in close proximity to their computer, laptop, tablet, or cellphone, business online is great. But, it's a success that worries most of us because we all wonder when will the corona-virus lockdowns, shoutouts, and restrictions end? And, if that wasn't bad enough, social unrest over the mistreatment of black Americans has once again awakened the sleeping giant of the Black Lives Matter movement. I know I have been affected by all of the above especially with regard to my blog so I wanted to take this opportunity to say I hope you, and all those around your, are safe and well, and still looking fabulous.

Kantic calming cream
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Tightening eye contour gel
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Rejuvenating eye balm
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Target fine lines and wrinkles with these wonderful Swiss quality anti-aging ingredients made for all skin types and worth adding to your beauty routine. The development of crow's feet, or more accurately line and wrinkles in the face is a sign of aging that grows more and more noticeable as we age. Reverse the appearance of aging with the safe botanical antioxidants in these creams and lotions from Alchimie-Forever that have the complementary effect of protecting and putting a stop to the appearance of growing older. The effect of the sun's rays on the skin can also take its toll over time and leave your skin looking withered and older. The skincare products above, from Alchimie-Forever, will help you understand what your skin needs and how to develop a treatment plan for your skin that really works. The way you take care of your skin in your twenties can determine the health of your skin in your forties. Who doesn't want younger-looking skin? For firmer-looking skin with clinically proven immediate effect take a moment to see if it's right for you.

Wedding Dress Ideas

2020-06-11T00:52:00.001-07:00

With the increasing emergence of new trends, engaged women have more choices than ever. A bridal stylist is an experienced professional who will help you find the best wedding gown for you. He/She will not only assist in making your vision a reality but will also ensure that you’re having a good time while you’re at it!

However, there are some important things that your bridal stylist may not tell you! Want to know what they are? Read on to find out!

1. Keep In Mind Your Venue and Wedding Theme

Imagine this: you’re planning to have a beach wedding and you are head over heels with a dress with a castle-long train. It just doesn’t seem right! Now your bridal stylist will never give you an advice that goes against your choice. So you should keep in mind the venue and the overall theme of the wedding while choosing a dress. You wouldn’t want a dress that looks out of place in your own wedding. And of course, you’d want to look beautiful and poised so choose wisely!

2. Get A Few Items To The Appointment

Your bridal stylist may not ask you to carry along things to your appointment but there are a few items you should have to make the shopping process a little easier. First, is the undergarment you plan to wear on your wedding day. This will ensure that they’re not visible through the dress and the fit is just right. Second, definitely bring your shoes. This way you’ll get the right length, something that won’t drag on the floor or look unappealingly short.

3. Always Take An Appointment

While your bridal stylist will not refuse service without an appointment, taking a prior appointment comes with its share of benefits. It ensures that you have someone dedicated to helping you find exactly the kind of dress you’re looking for. Moreover, if you have a certain style or price point they can have that set up before the visit so that you don’t start from scratch.

4. The Sooner The Better

A bridal stylist will never tell you that you’re too late to be shopping for a wedding dress. Chances are you may even find the perfect dress a month before your wedding. Or you may not! You don’t want to take that chance! We suggest you start looking for a dress at least 6-7 months in advance so that that you get enough time for fittings and alterations. It’s also going to make your shopping experience pleasant because how you approach the dress shopping ultimately depends on your wedding date and the amount of time you have in hand.

5. Bridesmaid Dresses Don’t Have To Be Boring Or Expensive

Now if you’re shopping for your bridesmaids, you obviously want to choose dresses that are within your set budget. What you must know is that you don’t have to choose boring dresses to cut on costs or choose an over the top gown for your bridesmaids. Bridal salons these days offer a wide variety of bridesmaid dresses at affordable prices so feel free to roam around the store and ask for dresses that impress you.

6. Your Entourage Doesn’t Have To Affect Your Decision

It often happens that a bride is absolutely in love with a dress but is unable to reach a decision because of negative feedback from her entourage. Your bridal stylist will never go out of her way and give you an opinion in favor of the dress you chose. However, what you should remember is that this is your wedding and you have every right to wear what you want! Besides, if the dress makes you feel confident and beautiful, how does anything else matter?

Bridal stylists are experts at what they do and every bride-to-be can benefit from the help of an expert. We hope these tips along with the advice from your stylist gets you the wedding dress of your dreams!

The Perfect Fit, Wedding Band

2020-05-18T22:10:00.000-07:00

The Wedding Band

The wedding band is just maybe the most important piece of jewelry worn in life. wearing a wedding band is symbolic of the bride and groom’s commitment to each other. Exchanged as part of the marriage ceremony and witnessed by family and friends the wedding band is a beautiful physical reminder of a couple's major moment in time. Unlike other pieces of jewelry, wedding bands are worn every moment of every day. Therefore, it is essential that a wedding band is comfortable and compatible with a couple’s sense of style.

The bride and groom-to-be should spend time viewing and researching band styles and materials prior to making a final decision. By browsing jewelry stores and Internet sites together, couples can gain a sense of their partner's likes and dislikes, and when it comes to the wedding band material?

Wedding bands are traditionally made of gold, white gold, or platinum. If a couple chooses gold bands, they should select 14k or 18k gold for sufficient quality and durability. Another less expensive choice for men’s bands is titanium. To reflect individual taste a band may be embellished with special finishes or engraved patterns. Diamonds or other precious stones can also be incorporated into the design, and if you thinking matching bands?

Matching wedding bands are often chosen by couples to symbolize their union. Engaged lovers may purchase matching “his and hers” rings or create a matching custom design for both bands. If they cannot agree on a shared band design, they may consider rings that are coordinated rather than matching. For example, bands might be made of the same material, share a similar style (like vintage, classic, modern) engraved pattern, or include the same stones without being identical. If the bride and groom prefer different metals (gold vs. platinum), they may choose to create a ring that incorporates both colors. Have fun personalizing your messages of love.

Many couples choose to engrave a meaningful sentiment or their wedding date on the inside of their wedding bands. This option can “unite” the rings, even if the pair did not choose matching rings. Engraving is offered at most jewelry stores and at a reasonable price. However, if a couple wishes to personalize their rings with an engraving they should make sure to allow sufficient time to ensure the rings will be ready well in advance of the ceremony.

Graduation Jewelry

2020-05-02T01:59:00.000-07:00

In spite of the fact that this year's (2020) graduation celebrations are delayed or in some cases canceled that still doesn't take away from the fact that a lot of hard work, time, talent, money, and drive have led to this point: a milestone that of course should be celebrated, photographed, and remembered forever. Whether from high school, college, law school, medical school, or what have you, graduation is a wonderful time of excitement and change.

Let me start by saying, how about something memorable, practical, meaningful, and beautiful in jewelry like pearls?

Pearl jewelry, whether in the form of pearl studs, a pearl pendant, or a beautiful pearl strand—is a classic and wonderful addition to any woman’s jewelry box. And it really doesn't matter if she’s heading off to college, interviewing for jobs, about to embark on a career, or planning a wedding, she'll remember you every time she wears them.

If you're wondering which pearls to choose, pearls come in many beautiful styles, shapes, and designs, but for graduation, a simple classic style that will stand the test of time is best. (pearls are not referred to as jewelry staples for nothing.) Because classic pearls are so popular, there are a variety of great-looking options to choose from. Pearls are a classics additions to her jewelry collection and something she’ll reach for again and again.

Take for example pearl stud earrings: The great thing about pearl studs is that they go with everything. Round, white pearls with a rosé overtone flatter most skin types and will add a little jewelry fashion versatility to her jewelry box. Some stores even carry pearl studs for non-pierced ears.

There is the 16-inch pearl strand: A matched pearl strand is a jewelry staple for a reason: it’s a classic—not to mention a no-brainer accessory that a woman can reach for to instantly to add polish to an outfit. Shorter strands, worn closer to the throat, draw attention to the wearer’s face and skin and make young women look fantastic in a pearl chokers. This style sits close to the throat and looks great with a business suit, v-neck sweater, tee-shirt, or open-collared dress shirt.

Another suggestion is an 18-inch pearl strand: This slightly more versatile, “princess” length necklace can be worn with almost any neckline and will serve the graduate well throughout her life. The princess length is a very popular choice because it works well with everything from turtlenecks to sweaters, business suits, dress shirts, and more.

How about a pearl pendant: A pearl pendant necklace featuring a single large pearl is a great option that can be worn with many different styles. Choose thin sterling silver or white gold chain for a modern look. Then there's the pearl bracelet: A perfect complement to a bold watch and slightly more affordable than a pearl necklace, a pearl bracelet can also add a dash of polish and class to a wardrobe selection.

A pearl ring can make quite a bold and sophisticated statement, especially when the ring features a single, large pearl. The only downside to buying a ring is that you need to know the graduate’s ring size. Classic pearl rings look fantastic in both white and yellow gold.

Many retailers and online stores sell classic pearl jewelry in sets. Not only is this great because you pay less for the set than if you purchased a necklace, earrings, and bracelet separately, but buying a pearl jewelry set provides the added bonus that the pieces will match.

So here's what to look for: No matter which style you choose, or whether you buy pearls from a local jewelry store, large retail chain or Internet store (which should offer adequate descriptions of what you’re buying along with a money-back guarantee), keep these tips in mind when you’re shopping for pearls and you won’t go wrong. You’ll pay more for larger pearls, in general, a larger pearl takes longer to form, and the chances of finding a perfectly round, large pearl are slim. After the 7.5-8mm mark for freshwater cultured pearls and Akoya cultured pearls, the most popular pearl types, prices rise dramatically. However, a 6.5mm strand is both lovely and affordable—and perfect for young women.

Pay attention to luster and surface. Pearls should have a high luster, or surface sheen, meaning they reflect light well. They should also be free from large blemishes such as chips and pits, although small blemishes are acceptable. An absolutely perfect strand is likely faux. Pearls are, after all, a natural product, and small variations are to be expected and do not detract from the pearls’ value.

Round is the hands-down favorite shape. While baroque pearls are gorgeous, and button and coin pearls are modern and affordable. When it comes to classic pearls "round" is still in. To check that pearls are uniformly round, ask the jeweler or read the Internet description. If you can handle the strand, roll it on a table. Matched pearls will roll smoothly.

Thickness is also important. Most pearls sold today are cultured pearls, and the best ones are formed in oysters or mussels that have been implanted with small, mother-of-pearl beads and mantle tissue or mantle tissue only and left in the water long enough for a sufficient coating of nacre to form. Avoid pearls that have been implanted with large plastic or glass beads or harvested prematurely; they will flake and peel easily. And so a brief recap:

• Pay attention to uniformity. Make sure that pearls in a piece of jewelry are the same size, color, shape, and luster.
• Beware: Some jewelry makers try to hide smaller or imperfect pearls near the clasp.
• Choose color carefully. Pearls look best if they flatter the skin tone of the wearer.

Follow these pearl-buying tips, choose wisely, and your graduate will have a jewelry staple she’ll treasure forever.

A graduate of the Gemological Institute of America’s Graduate Pearls program, Amy Drescher is a fashion writer and accessories buyer. Amy welcomes your questions her e-mail address is adrescher@moonriverpearls.com.

Birthstones

2020-04-30T11:31:00.000-07:00

There are a lot of legends and lore surrounding the practice of wearing birthstones. A lot of people believe that the idea of wearing birthstones started out as a marketing ploy by companies selling jewelry, and in these commercial super media times that would not be a good guess, but the reason behind the practice goes much, much deeper than that. The practice of wearing birthstones is actually rooted in astrology and religion. This post explores some of the myths behind the practice of sporting a birthstone.

One of the earliest stories connected to the practice of wearing birthstones came from the Christian Bible, the book of Exodus to be exact. The Breastplate of Aaron is described to have been mounted with twelve precious stones: ruby, topaz, beryl, turquoise, sapphire, emerald, jacinth, agate, amethyst, chrysolite, onyx, and jasper. These twelve stones represented each of the twelve tribes of the Hebrews.

Other ancient cultures, like the Hellenics and the Babylonians in particular, have associated certain precious stones with their gods and goddesses, and later on with the planets and the stars represented in astrological signs. These stones were given attributes relating to the astrological signs they are linked with, as well as supernatural, protective powers. To wear the particular gemstone associated with a particular month on that given month is to invoke the protection offered by the powers of the stone.

Over the years and as Christianity came to rise, the Church tried to downplay astrology in the lives of the flock, and so wearing gemstones came to represent guardian angels and the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ instead. The idea that gemstones have the power to protect its wearer was nonetheless retained. However, since only wealthy people can afford to own a different gemstone for each month, most people have adopted the practice of wearing just the gemstone that represents the month of their birth. Since that time gemstones have been referred to as birthstones.

For the meaning behind the wearing of birthstones here are the different birthstones for each month of the Gregorian calendar and the meaning behind these stones.

For the month of January. Garnet is the birthstone, the bright red color of the garnet is associated with blood and thus, was thought to bestow good health upon its wearer. The garnet is also said to provide protection against nightmares and against the dangers posed by being alone in the dark. A person who favors the garnet is said to possess great patience and the capacity to endure hardships. The person whose birthstone is the garnet is consistent with his or her deeds and blessed with a creative mind.

For the month of February. A person born in the month of February has the amethyst for his or her birthstone. Amethyst is said to bestow, among other things, peace and clarity of the mind to its wearer. This gem also brings its wearer a heightened sense of self-awareness and intuition.

In the month of March. The person born in March, aquamarine is his or her birthstone. This stone is said to nurture friendliness in its wearer’s personality, making him a fierce and loyal comrade and companion. Because of its sea-blue color, the aquamarine is said to grant its wearer protection when she goes swimming traveling by water.

For the month of April. The diamond, the stone of strength offers longevity and innocence and is the birthstone of people born in April. Because the diamond is the hardest gemstone, it symbolizes success and excellence and is believed to bring forth good fortune. The diamond is also said to bring forth the purity of its wearer and encourages them to be truthful always.

For the month of May. People born in May the gemstone of peace and healing is – the emerald. It's believed that wearers of emeralds are granted good health and protection against illness. Wearers of emeralds are also said to have a higher level of foresight and to possess the natural ability to communicate well with others.

For the month of June. Pearls, produced by oysters and therefore the only gemstones that come from a living creature, is the birthstone of people born in June. In the Western world, June is the month of weddings, and so the pearl has come to be associated with successful marriages, as well as with faith, loyalty, and tranquility in life.

In the month of July, the sanguine ruby is the birthstone. Because of its blood-red color, the ruby is considered to be the gemstone for courage, strength, and vitality. It's also said to nurture in its wearer integrity and contentment in his- or herself. The ruby is also said to inspire people to seek harmony with others.

People born in August have the peridot as their birthstone. The peridot is said to bestow a heightened sense of dignity upon its wearer, and to bring upon her good fortune. It is also believed to provide him protection against evil intentions and against the terrors of the night.

Sapphire is the birthstone of September. It is a gemstone that is thought to build wisdom and clarity of thought in its wearer, as well as allow him or his discernment to see the truth no matter how deeply it is buried. The sapphire also inspires her to develop serenity and tranquility in their soul.

The birthstone for October is the opal. The opal, with its varying colors, is associated with depth in emotions. A person who wears the opal is granted the ability to feel deeply for his or her fellow person, to look at life with hope, and to burn subtly with an inner fire.

For the month of November. Topaz, is the birthstone, a gemstone that represents health in the body as well as health in the mind. Wearing the topaz is said to hasten a person’s ability to heal their own body in times of illness or injury. It is also thought to nurture practicality and creativity in its wearer.

Wearing the turquoise, the birthstone of December is believed to bring luck and prosperity to the wearer in time for the coming New Year. The turquoise is also said to banish negative vibrations that can hinder the wearer’s happiness and good fortune.

The practice of wearing birthstones goes deep beyond any marketing ploy. Wearing a birthstone is a practice of ancient origins, with deep religious and astrological roots. Birthstones are one of the most versatile gifts to give any season for any occasion.

Unique design watches

2020-04-26T18:13:00.000-07:00

Vacheron Constantin represents one of the most prominent and shining old names in the world of horology with an outstanding-heritage and history.
Founded in 1735 by Jean-Marc Vacheron at the age of 24 and Vacheron Constantin has continued its tradition of excellence ever since. The Vacheron Constantin name is a synonym with fine watchmaking and is always spoken with a degree of esteem and well-earned respect. The founder was well-known for high-priced and finely finished timepieces.

His greatest ambition was to create timepieces distinguished for their elegance and quality. In 1785 the company was taken over by Vacheron's son, Abraham, and managed to survive the French Revolution, and other economic crises Vacheron Constantin continues to manufacture ultra-complicated watches in limited numbers, such as the Tourbillon watches, the excellent "Grand Mercator" and a majestic minute repeater, perpetual calendar.

Vacheron Constantin possesses a rich heritage of more than two centuries of persistent watchmaking. The company is following the traditions and bringing out outstanding creativity to its customers reflecting the motto, “quality first, the honor of the tradition and lasting creativity.” Vacheron Constantin takes great care in developing its image through its products. The company maintains a strong belief that fine watchmaking reflects a unique design, skillful techniques, and hand finishing trilogy that are mixed together in harmony to create a real work of art. Vacheron Constantin strives for a full commitment to its devoted customers all around the world.

Vacheron Constantin's timepieces reflect a strong historical expressiveness, scrupulous craftsmanship, and have traditional Vacheron characteristics. The designs keep their connection to the past but are always being recreated. They have nothing to do with fashion, which tends to come and goes.

Vacheron Constantin is going to continue meeting the expectations of its customers providing the best creativity, quality, exclusivity, and reliability. For real watch enthusiasts, a Vacheron Constantin means the maximum expression of the watchmaker's art. You are welcome to choose your own special model of Vacheron Constantin replica watches at what are today very reasonable prices.

Romantic Jewelry

2020-04-03T14:07:00.001-07:00

"Isn't jewelry romantic by its very nature, I asked myself?"

After overhearing a woman talk about how beautiful some of the jewelry, she was wearing made her feel, I think that to some degree it's true. Jewelry can make you feel even better about yourself, but we wear jewelry for any number of reasons that are not strictly romantic. To look sophisticated, and professional, to impress our friends and neighbors.

So, what about the romance of jewelry?

Something more like, the dictionary definition of jewelry:

"A quality or feeling of mystery, excitement, and remoteness from everyday life"

Romantic jewelry is that jewelry that makes you feel special, like a princess or a prince. That special jewelry that takes you out of your normal humdrum life every time you put it on and makes you feel extra special.

Perhaps that is why gold is such a popular metal for jewelry. I love silver and platinum and there are other metals (titanium comes to mind) that make great jewelry, but there is nothing like the romance of gold. To wear gold is to wear the jewelry of kings and queens. In ancient Egypt, only the pharaohs and those especially favored by the pharaohs were permitted to wear gold. This feeling of being special and above the fray has continued to the modern-day. If you want to feel like royalty (or if you want to give a gift that says you think of your beloved as a king or queen), gold is the answer.

Another form of jewel that inspires feelings of romance are pearls, emeralds and rubies... and, of course, for many people, diamonds are a girl's best friend.

Somehow though diamonds don't seem to have the same warmth and romance as the other stones. Diamonds were not historically valued as highly as they are today. Much of the romance that has been generated around diamonds is due to De Beers in the early part of the 20th century instituting a brilliant and very effective advertising campaign... so I will leave diamonds for another post.

On the other hand, pearls feel wonderful against your skin. They are sensuous and mysterious. To look deeply into a fine pearl is like looking into eternity. There is also something intriguing about a pearl, knowing that it came not from the cold hard ground, but from a living industrious mollusk.

Pearls have been prized in all time periods and all cultures. Historically baroque pearls (large irregularly shaped pearls) were used to make wonderful and fantastic jewelry by embellishing them with gold and gems. Frequently these took the shape of Neptune or other Greek gods, sirens, beautiful women and animals. The Canning Jewel in the Victoria and Albert Museum is a famous and elaborate use of a baroque as the base for a handsome merman.

Black pearls, particularly Tahitian black pearls have become very popular in recent years. They come in a range of colors from spectacular purples and greens, through pinks to sophisticated browns. All are lovely and the range of colors gives them a great deal of flexibility in choosing just the right pearl for your outfit and fashion mood. The most beautiful black pearl necklace I've seen was from Morrison's a small manufacturing jeweler in Berkeley. The pearls were arranged in a rainbow strung together so that each color melted into the one next to it, talk about stunning. And of course, what could be more romantic than pearls from Tahiti?

(By the way, if you wear pearls, do wear them against your skin, it is good for them, but be sure that you do not wear any perfume, scent or lotion, at least not where it might contact your pearls, okay?)

Emeralds and rubies are traditionally the emperor and empress of gems. Perhaps it is their vibrant colors that inspired our ancestors. Certainly, that vivid blood red and cool serpent green are hard to ignore. Even today emeralds and rubies of equal size and quality are more expensive than equivalent diamonds are.

In Victorian times colored gems were used to spell out love messages. Sometimes this made for interesting and not necessarily attractive settings, but it is very romantic. For instance, a piece of jewelry might have these gems in order:

LOVE: Lapis, Opal, Vermeil, and Emerald.
REGARD: Ruby, Emerald, Garnet, Amethyst, along with Ruby and Diamond.

The shape of jewelry too can harbor a romantic message. Hearts and clasped hands, hands holding a heart and cupids are self-explanatory, but some shapes are a bit more subtle.

For many cultures, including the Romans and the Victorians, snakes were a symbol of enduring love. A snake biting its own tail to form a circle is a particularly potent symbol of everlasting love. Prince Albert gave Queen Victoria a snake engagement ring -- at the beginning of a long and celebrated marriage.

Interestingly lizards and frogs were (and perhaps still are) also symbols of wedded happiness. Perhaps this explains the continuing popularity of jewelry depicting these wiggly creatures.

Jewelry in the shape of flowers may also be symbolic. To quote Ophelia "There's rosemary, that's for remembrance; pray, love, remember: and there are pansies. That’s for thoughts."

Other flowers commonly found in jewelry are daisies for innocence, roses for the growth and continuation of love, and bouquets expressing the commingling and compatibility of marriage. When you are considering the perfect gift from that next anniversary, rather than the common "anniversary ring" how about a more romantic bouquet pendant?

So the next time you are looking through your jewel box before that special tryst or looking for the perfect gift for the perfect lover, consider the symbolic romance of jewelry and gems.

The Egyptian Ankh

2020-04-01T13:35:00.000-07:00

The ancient symbol of an ornate cross with an open loop at the top known as the Ankh; the Egyptians referred to in ancient times as The Cross of Life or the Key of Life is the subject of this post. As in ancient times, the Ankh symbolizes our mortal life, the afterlife, and fertility. The ancient Egyptian language is displayed in symbols and the Ankh was the Egyptian symbol for the word life. The Ankh can also be interpreted as a "mirror" as in a mirror to the soul.

I recently added this interesting piece of jewelry to my Juneteenth jewelry collection and some of the information I have discovered about this ancient object has educated me about ancient Egyptian customs. I share some of what I learned in this post for those who are also interested and provided you are not already in possession of this knowledge. If not, you might find it interesting to know that Ancient Egyptians decorated their homes, inside and out with the Ankh symbol and wore Ankh ornamentation for protections to ward off evil.

The Ankh was believed to have magical powers and was used for everything from fertility ritual to cult worship. The Ankh did not come from the Christian cross, in fact, it predates the Christian cross some scholars believe the Ankh symbol was model for the Christian cross.

Even though fashion has changed a lot since the fall of the ancient Egyptian empires this ancient symbol of immortality and death, the male and female balance seems to be as popular today as it was hundreds of years ago. So, if you've ever wanted to add to your collection of jewelry a piece of attractive Egyptian protective bling that represents a life that spans not only living in the material world but life in the spiritual everlasting afterlife as well then this ancient good-luck-symbol may be for you.

Dressing in ankh decorated clothing or jewelry has a history that is worth learning a little about. I found it interesting to know that there was once great unity and change connected to the power of ancient fashion and culture. Ancient people understood the powerful meaning of what geometry and symbols had to offer them, and how those things could affect the vibrations in their environment and the direct effects on them related to the physical plane of existence. Whether you're feeling like connecting with the ancestors and working on your spiritual connection to consciousness or just looking to add a fashionable finish to any wardrobe choice you make---add a little ankh to it.

The joy of life's energy is represented in this historical Egyptian symbol and even though you will find Ankh jewelry rings, Ankh jewelry bracelets, sweatshirts, and other Ankh-cross-images, all presented in many wonderful designs and color combinations, the true beauty of the Ankh is in its meaning---life!