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Sparkling Selections: 10 Essential Tips to Keep in Mind When Picking Your Wedding Jewelry!

wedding jewelry

While a wedding dress can transform you into a beautiful bride, wedding jewelry is quintessential to add the finishing touches to your bridal look. Your choice of accessories impacts your wedding day look to considerable extent, and hence what you choose to wear with your wedding gown is very important. Here are ten smart tips to keep in mind when you, the pretty bride, have to choose your wedding day jewelry.

Always buy your wedding dress first

Your wedding dress should be first on your shopping list, and not something you buy after choosing your accessories. It is easier to find accessories that match the dress, than the reverse. The only exception is when you will be wearing heirloom jewelry. Heirloom jewelry usually features designs that go well with classic wedding gown designs. Since the wedding dress aisles are chock full of classic collections, it shouldn’t be difficult to find a dress that works with this jewelry. This may however, not be the case with modern designs. Since modern jewelry are usually very specific in nature, you may end up on a wild goose chase, to find a gown that matches the style of your chosen accessory. So, if your theme is something unusual, (like a peacock theme or rainbow theme), and you wish to find accessories like belts or headbands that match this theme, first buy your dress and then go shopping for the accessories. This will be easier to match.

Balance is key

Simple is elegant. The more details you use, the more chances of the finer ones getting lost in the jumble. When you choose your wedding jewelry, you should balance it out with the details on your dress. Keep the jewelry simple if your wedding gown is elaborate with intricate beading, embroidery, or other details. If you have chosen a minimalist wedding gown, or one with few details, it is fine to choose bigger and bolder jewelry. Similarly, pay attention to how the jewelry comes together with the details on your dress. If the wedding dress has an elaborate neckline, go easy on the necklace. Or if the dress has long sleeves, you can skip wearing a bracelet. If there is a motif of significant size on the bust, neckline or waist, your jewelry should not clash with it. Balancing your total look is tricky, but it can be achieved if you try to focus on what you really need. Your guests will not think much of your fashion sense if you look like a disco ball. So, stay away from the temptation to choose more sparkles than is really necessary.

You need not wear several jewelry pieces

Whether you buy a jewelry set, or choose each piece separately, you do not have to wear everything on the list. This can again clutter up the overall look, and take away the impact that can be achieved by just one statement piece. Wear small studs or leave out earrings entirely if your necklace is flashy and big. You must also tie the overall look to any statement motifs or embellishments on your wedding gown. If your dress features a beaded sash or waistband, go easy with the bling in your necklace. A single statement jewelry piece like tanzanite earrings is very fashionable. When no other pieces compete for attention, all eyes will be on this single piece of jewelry, making it effective.

The metal colors should match the dress

This is because some colors look good together, while other combinations may clash against each other and ruin the effect of both. When choosing jewelry, you have choices like white, gold and pink. Jewelry made from metals like silver, palladium, platinum and white gold look good with stark white dresses or those with silver embellishments and beading. Jewelry in shades of yellow and gold look better with creamy white wedding dresses. Rose gold goes with white and silver. Also if the embellishments in your dress are silver, stick to the same color or gemstones that are set in a white base, so they match. If the embellishments are with pearls and beads, you could wear a string of pearls and other matching accessories. Colorful details on the dress, like sashes and waistbands should also be considered when choosing the color of the accessories. Certain shades like navy and gray look better with white than with gold or rose gold.

Don’t forget your hair

You may not be a big fan of wearing a tiara on your wedding day, but there is no harm if you do. Nevertheless, there are many fascinating options in hair accessories, like combs and head pieces that can make you look very pretty. Whether you tie your hair up or leave it down, you should consider decorating it with a headpiece that matches your dress and adds more impact to your overall look on the day. Choose big or small hair accessories, depending on the color and texture of your hair and the size of your face. If you have thick curls, you may need bigger accessories for it to be noticeable. For fine and thin hair, elaborate accessories may look too heavy. Also, your accessories need not be metal. For brides who love flowers, you can weave flowers into your hair for a natural but classic look. Flower crowns are another interesting accessory to consider. Also remember that varying the position of the accessory on your head, can help you achieve different looks. So, try out different options to find the best placement location. Finally, don’t pick out your hair accessories before deciding your wedding day’s hairstyle. This is because some hair accessories do not look good with specific styles. So, you may have to reconsider your choice if they do not go well when you try them together.

Think beyond the wedding ceremony

Unlike your wedding dress, you can get more than just one use out of your wedding jewelry. Keep this factor in mind when you choose accessories. This actually makes it worthwhile to spend a little more on your jewelry. Rather than choose accessories that are apt just for the day, or pieces that go well with the wedding theme, invest in jewelry that you like, and can see yourself using again in the future. If there is a gemstone that you are fond of, or there are certain designs that you have fallen in love with, this may be the time to seriously consider buying it. This could even be your something new. It is also a fact that jewelry is a good investment, as you can pass it on as an heirlooom to your children. They are more likely to use it than they are to use your wedding dress.

Consider renting if it is too expensive

If you are on a tight budget, investing too much money in your wedding accessories may not be possible. However, you do not want this factor to lessen the impact of your wedding day look. In such a case, you can have what you want for a reasonable budget, when you rent your accessories. At Best for Bride, we offer all bridal accessories on rent, just like we rent out wedding dresses. Since these pieces of jewelry are well-cared for, and look brand new, nobody is going to know that you aren’t wearing stuff that belongs to you. This is also an affordable option to have bigger and more beautiful and expensive pieces that you may not be able to consider otherwise. Choose jewelry that matches your wedding dress style, and collect it a day or two before your wedding after signing the required paperwork. All you now have to do is take good care of them while they are in your custody, and enjoy dressing up like a princess on the biggest day of your life; without a hefty fee, that is!

The necklace can make or break your look

If there is one thing that your jewelry should match, it is the neckline of your dress. Finding the right adornment for your neckline style can instantly add extra points to your look. For a low-cut neckline like a sweetheart or strapless, almost any style of necklace would look good. This can be a string of pearls, a bold necklace or even a simple necklace with a pendant. The dress will usually feature an ornate neck area for the illusion neckline. This eliminates the need for a necklace, and you can wear a small one if absolutely necessary. A thin chain with a pendant would go well with a V-neckline. For halter dresses, it is best to skip the necklace altogether and focus on the hair and ear accessories instead.

Strive to stick to how you normally look

If you have always been big on the bling, your wedding day needs not be different. However, if you have always worn simple accessories, then you will feel and look drastically different on your wedding day if you were to drown yourself in jewelry. Whatever you wear should be an extension of your personality. Only then will it bode well with your overall look. So, don’t try something that you have never done before, for the first time on your wedding day. Look to your best-looking moments from the past to decide what kind of jewelry will suit you the most. Think of the one piece of jewelry that everyone has appreciated on you, in the past. This design most likely complements your style and enhances your beauty. Try to find wedding jewelry in a similar style, and you are likely to find the best one for your natural features. As with your hairstyle and makeup, your accessories should also enhance your natural beauty and add that extra dose of glamour to you—not change you into a whole other person who nobody can recognize.

Mix and match jewelry sensibly

Your wedding day is not the occasion to bring out all the expensive stuff that you own. As with mixing metals in your accessories, mix the gemstones also with care. Too much variation in color, style and design can do more harm than good in making you look your best. Stick with one colored stone throughout your accessories and choose jewelry that follows a similar pattern. Mixing up pink and white pearls in different parts of your ensemble, or wearing rhinestones on your neck and pearls in your bracelet can make you look like a fashion disaster. Also, don’t forget to match your watch to the rest of your jewelry in terms of color and finish. If you have difficulty finding one that goes well with the rest of your accessories, there is no harm in skipping it.

It is absolutely essential to try on your wedding jewelry, along with your wedding dress, before your wedding day. You can take your accessories to one of your fitting appointments when you will try on your wedding dress. If you do your hair also in the style that you will be wearing on your wedding day, you can have a fair idea of how you will look on your big day. This will also allow you to modify the look, if you want to.

At Best for Bride, you can buy or rent a range of wedding accessories. This includes tiaras, earrings, headpieces, bracelets, rings, necklaces and much more. Visit our online shop to find out the various designs we feature. You can also shop from our extensive collection of wedding gowns and dresses for the rest of the wedding party, including flower girls and mother-of-the-bride party favors and décor items. We pride ourselves on being a unique and one-stop destination for everything bridal and are sure that you will find all you need for your dream wedding in our store. Visit us today to find out how we can help you.

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Seal the Deal with Sparkle: Your Comprehensive Guide to Picking the Ultimate Wedding Ring!

gold ring

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Your wedding ring is the symbol of your union that you will wear forever. So, choose it with care and you will love wearing it in the years to come.

Rings or wedding bands are available in every design, pattern and color. While having so many options allows you to find a unique choice, it can also become very difficult for you to choose. This article will guide you through all the options available to you, so you can narrow down your choices to what you love the most and buy your ring based on it.

Type of metal

Rings can be made from different metals, and the metal you choose will not only determine the look, but will also affect the durability and usability of your ring. So, this is a good place to start. The most commonly preferred metals for wedding bands include the following.

White gold: Gold is alloyed with other metals like nickel or platinum to create a white or silver-colored finish. These rings are usually coated with an outer layer of rhodium for added shine, making the ring whiter. Although this layer may wear off continuously over time, it can be reapplied to regain the original look. White gold resembles platinum but is more economical. The purity of gold in wedding bands can be18ct or less, depending on the amount of gold in the ring.

white gold

Yellow gold: The traditional choice for wedding bands, yellow gold is an alloy of gold with other metals that look yellow in color. Like white gold, it is available in 18ct, 14ct and 9ct. It is also available as 22 ct or even 24 ct. However, as the amount of gold increases, the band becomes very soft and, hence, isn’t suitable for daily wear. A ring of 18ct or less would be ideal.

gold ring

Rose Gold: A shimmery pink colored alloy of gold, these rings contain copper alloyed with gold in a specific ratio to have a pinkish color. The presence of other metals like zinc can alter the color to a reddish yellow or dark yellow, but it has a distinct pink overtone.

Platinum: One of the most expensive options, platinum is a metal that is greatly preferred by couples today. Platinum rings have a white color, similar to that of white gold. The difference however, is that it tolerates wear and tear very well, and is the ideal choice if you want a ring that will stay unmarked even after years of use.

Silver: One of the most budget-friendly choices in metals, silver an rings are usually white, but can also take on oxidized, satin or polished finish. Silver rings look similar to white gold initially, but they are most prone to wear and tear in comparison with other metals. Being a soft metal, every small scratch and mark will show up and cause it to look aged. You may also like to look at palladium sterling silver, which contains palladium in the alloy. The benefit of this choice is that it has better durability and you can still enjoy the original charm of a traditional silver band on your finger.

silver ring

Titanium: This lightweight gray metal is the ideal choice for people allergic to metals. Titanium is slightly darker than traditional white gold or platinum but is a good choice for its durability and hypo-allergenic properties. It also feels very light on the finger.

Now, let us look at the different ring finishes you can choose from.

Wedding ring finishes

Mirror or glossy: Here the ring is polished to be reflective, and this makes it shine and look brand new till wear and tear sets in.

Matte: The best way to describe a matte surface is to call it misty. The texture of the ring is such that it will be coarse to the touch, and look marked or rugged. You can choose between fine matte and coarse matte, depending on whether you want it to look slightly textured or uneven and visibly marked.

Stardust: Here, the metal’s surface is subjected to high polishing and texturing, so it selectively sparkles. As the name suggests, the effect is similar to that of stardust with a distinct shine, and it has a sophisticated look.

Hammered: Here the ring surface is softly hammered to create dents that reflect light and give it a rugged appearance. The entire surface will be textured in multiple directions due to the uneven hammering effect, and this makes the ring brighter than it actually is.

Sandblasted: The ring is subjected to high pressure and the surface is blasted with sand grains to create a definitive textured finish.

Next, let us take a look at the different ring profiles, as this can greatly impact the way the ring shows on your finger.

Wedding band profiles

Court: This is the traditional style, where the edges are rounded and both the inner and outer faces are curved. The outer surface is gently curved, so it doesn’t look too bulky. When choosing the rings together, many couples usually choose the same design with the groom chooses a wider width for their ring than their bride does.

D-shape: The inside of this ring is flat, while the outer area is rounded. This makes it sit closely on the finger, while the rounded outer surface makes it comfortable as well.

Flat court: These rings are comfortable, as it has a rounded fit on the inner surface. The outer surface, on the other hand, is flat and reflective, making it slim and shiny.

Concave: Distinct from the other types of rings, concave wedding rings have an inward curving outer surface. This gives it a textured look. Although it is an attractive-looking profile, the drawback is that this profile isn’t easy to re-size, so you may have to consider this factor when you choose to go with it.

We have looked at the technical details pertaining to wedding rings. Next, let us move on to the more interesting aspect—Style! The wedding ring you choose should be a reflection of your personal style, as it will be part of your daily attire. We suggest you devote some time to decide which style will still appeal to you, years after you’ve been married. Let us look at the options available.

Wedding ring styles

Plain band: As the name suggests, the plain wedding band has a simple structure with no fancy designing or details. It is the traditional favorite. The plain band can take on any of the profiles and finishes mentioned above, and it is easier to modify or re-size later, should the need arise. If you have a beautiful engagement ring which you will continue to wear along with your wedding band, the plain ring is one of the best options that will sit well with it.

Shaped ring: One of the important factors to consider, when you choose to wear two rings side-by-side is how well they sit together. If your engagement ring is slightly bigger in diameter or has a distinct style, it is important to choose your wedding band in a shape that will go well with it. Shaped wedding rings are contoured to suit the size of your finger, and they come in a variety of shapes. The most common shapes are curved, wishbone or cut-out.

shaped ring

Stone or gem-set: gem set ring You may have a solitaire or precious stone of significant size on your engagement ring, but it won’t hurt to add a little sparkle to your wedding band as well. Diamond set wedding rings are fashionable, with brides either choosing to add a single small gem inlay or having gemstones all over the curved surface of the ring. The stone is usually round or square-cut. However, it is not unusual to find stones of unique shapes, such as a pear-shape or marquise cut. Gemstones other than diamonds, such as tanzanite, sapphires, aquamarine, ruby and topaz are common choices. It is a good idea to have gems set in both wedding bands, as this allows the groom to also wear a sparkling gem that reminds him of his beautiful bride. Gem set wedding bands are usually done in plain or shaped ring designs.

Inlay: Whether you want something unique, or are unable to decide which metal is best, wedding bands with inlays are your best choice. Duo-tone bands with one metal sandwiched between strips of another metal allow you to mix your favorite metal colors. The other option is to add a wooden or ceramic band in between two metal layers or adding a hammered or textured inlay. By varying the thickness of the inlay, you can find a design that is unique. Mixing of white gold or platinum with yellow gold is a popular choice, as it is durable and has a timeless elegance.

metal inlay ring

Engraved: engraved ring A beautiful and romantic addition to any wedding ring, engraved wedding bands have always been very popular. Most couples engrave a line of text on the inside or outside of the ring. However, you can choose to have anything engraved on your ring. The common choice that most couples go with is to engrave their initials and their wedding date. You can also choose a simple expression or quote like “All my love.” We also found some more interesting ideas for wedding band engravings, such as

  • Foreign sayings, if you love the way a phrase sounds in another language
  • Religious verses, if both of you are religious
  • Connected sayings, where a quote is split into two, with the first half being placed on your band and the rest of it on your partner’s.
  • Personal sayings that the two of you use between yourselves
  • The name of a place you love, where you first met or the name of the place where you first lived together
  • Customized rings with your fingerprint engraved on the inside.
  • Symbols or signs that mean something special to both of you.

When you choose to have your wedding band engraved remember that the customization will take time, and you will have to place your order early, so it is ready on time. Also remember to double check your spellings before you place the order, as it cannot be redone if there is a mistake. Keep in mind that there is a limit to the number of characters that can be engraved, depending on how small the ring is. So, plan accordingly.

Here are some general tips to remember when you go wedding band shopping.

Wedding ring shopping tips

#1 Start Early

As with everything wedding-related, start shopping for your wedding band early. We think two to three months before the wedding should give you sufficient time to browse options, narrow down choices, try on rings and zero-in on the one you love. If you choose to have your ring engraved or custom-made, it can take anywhere from one to two months. So, keep this in mind when you go shopping.

#2 Choose a ring that is suited to your lifestyle

Your wedding band will be a regular on your finger throughout your lifespan. So, make sure you choose a metal that will tolerate the strain it will endure. If you actively work with your hands and use sharp instruments or apply a lot of strength and force, choose metals like platinum that can endure it. Also avoid gemstones that can come loose or engravings that quickly trap dirt and age the ring quickly.

#3 Think long-term

Before you finalize a ring that is flashy and very trendy, think of how your choices may change over the years. The wedding band is meant for eternity, so it should be a choice that you will continue to love over the years. Think of how you see yourself ten years from now, and consider whether you will still love this choice then. Classic and timeless designs are better that way.

You should now have all the information you need to start shopping. Have a great time trying on rings and hope you find one that you will always love.

Continue visiting us on Best for Bride for more wedding related tips and advice, and also to shop for all your wedding needs.

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Winter wedding table décor inspiration

Now that this is the time for winter weddings, let us look at some of the most interesting décor arrangements that make the most of the cool, holiday season. Here is some inspiration for you from various venues across the world, to give you ideas for your own beautiful wedding.

The all-time favorite white and silver combination

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Image Credit: djromanj, via Flickr, [CC BY 2.0]

The festivities of the cold season are enhanced with white and silver strewn all around. Adopt the same combination for your wedding centerpieces, and you will have a classic never-fail favorite, that is both festive and stylish. Tall candles and white roses are favorites, while silver candle holders, platters and ornaments like baubles and stars can add glittering accents. For a better finish, consider throwing in crystal or glass vases, which complement this color palette perfectly.

Seasonal elements like pine cones and fir to add textural dimension

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Winter decorations with the seasonal icons like pine cones and fir branches can add a whimsical and cheerful touch to your table centerpieces. Not only are they romantic, they also have a spell binding fairy tale effect. Little pine cones scattered all over the table, used beside the place settings and if required, decorated with shimmering glitter make beautiful additions to your wintry tablescape.

Red and blue make the best colors for winter

red decor

Red reminds us of Christmas, and deep blue is a color that magnifies the characteristic white of winter. If you want only a little color in your winter wedding, these are the ones to consider. Red and white is a classic Christmas combination. Add a few golden accents, and your centerpieces will be welcoming and warm. Choose to go with blue and white instead, if you prefer more sophistication. Purple and emerald are other beautiful colors that brighten up white and form beautiful color combinations.

Splurge on candles

candles

Scented candles are perfect to set the ambiance you desire. Depending on whether your table setting is long or round, choose a centerpiece that has plenty of candles. The warm glow of a lit candle is romantic, beautiful and cozy; it can brighten up any dreary winter day. So, if you have a snowy wedding, make the most of this décor element to warm your wedding venue. How about adding a few floating tea light candles or even strewing around petals for added elegance?

Magnificence of Crystal and metal

copper

Bring on the bling with bright metallic shimmer, through metal tree centerpieces. Another metal I love is copper, which screams winter. Copper vases and mugs can lift the cold and create a warm and welcoming ambiance. Crystal is another element that generates textural magic and rejuvenates any space with sparkling bursts of color. Hang strings of crystals or use crystal bowls and vases for your centerpieces, and they will make an enchanting décor element.

Tell us, which of these will you be using at your winter wedding? For more inspiration, we suggest you look at this article on Stylemepretty. Also, don’t forget to visit us on Best for Bride for both unusual and interesting décor and centerpieces, and you will find hundreds of ideas to borrow and use.

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Everything you need to know about planning the Perfect Classic Wedding

If you want a wedding theme that will stand the test of time, and will always be in style—Classic Weddings are the way to go!

Timeless in their elegance, reminiscent of bygone eras, superb in details and executed with perfection, it is no wonder that classic themes are the eternal favorite. Although casual and destination weddings are all trendy, they are no competition for a classic wedding. Formal ceremonies celebrating the matrimonial unification of man and wife with splendor and style, are a joy in itself.

Join us as we explore everything from planning your invitation, menu and wedding dress to identifying the perfect venue and picking your wedding favors for your perfect Classic Wedding.

Continue reading Everything you need to know about planning the Perfect Classic Wedding