List an Item
Your Chair Covers
Mina D
Weston Jewelry
Birkat Elyon
Forever Friends

Archive for the ‘Guest Blogs’ Category

Diamond Engagement Rings – How to Get the Best Bang for Your Buck

Friday, April 29th, 2011

Yes, yes, I know today is the Royal Wedding (and Kate…err Catherine now, did look amazing!) but after hours of TV coverage and Kate and William splashed all over the Internet I thought it would be refreshing to talk about something else. And what else is almost as fun to look at but diamond rings!

Jeff from Modern Design Inc. was kind enough to send us a guest blog post on the in’s and out’s of buying an engagement ring. Read on to learn more about getting the best bang for your buck, which we love doing at BravoBride!

This stunning ring would definitely turn heads.

Diamond Engagement Rings

If you’re looking for diamond engagement rings or a diamond wedding ring it can be difficult to figure out where to go. From the initial research of exactly what a diamond is, how to tell the quality of the diamond, the differences between different metals, and deciding whether you’re looking to buy on the Internet or at your local jeweler, the choices can be overwhelming.

When shopping around, the term “you get what you pay for” typically applies. The difference of a couple thousand dollars can make a HUGE difference in what you get with the quality of a diamond engagement ring and diamond. At the same time, looking at two different jewelers, the same price can also get you a very different ring and diamond for the same price.

You can break down most retailers into a couple categories:

This unique ring is offered for $3,700 less than retail price.

1. Big chain stores – These are typically jewelers that reside in most large shopping malls and prices here are basically the highest you can pay – full retail price with salespeople moderately knowledgeable on what they’re selling and their salary based largely on selling you the most expensive ring you can afford.

2. Large Internet “jewelers” that compete largely on price – these companies typically have most of their designs and rings manufactured overseas to cut down on costs. Most designs are relatively generic and quality is typically lower as well as having little room to customize your design. It can also be difficult since you can’t actually see the ring/diamond you’ll be buying in person.

3. Independent local jewelers/manufacturers – Most jewelry manufacturers do not sell directly to the public. However with the rising need for them to compete with Internet-based companies, it’s become necessary for manufacturers to start selling directly to the public, at prices previously unheard of. Many of these companies, custom manufacturer all their designs in the USA, and give you both more freedom in what you want as well as more “bang for your buck” – since they often would have previously sold to the “big chain stores”.

This engagement ring has 2 1/4 carat total weight of diamonds and is on sale.

The question is where can you find these independent manufacturers turned retailers? The payoff is pretty significant, with the ability to save upwards of 40% from retail prices, while getting the same quality, it’s well worth it.

Modern Design Inc. is one of these companies, who is a manufacturer and wholesaler of custom diamond jewelry based in the heart of the downtown Los Angeles Jewelry District. All of their jewelry is made in the USA and they have wholesaled their fine line of jewelry to retail stores out of state since 1978, now offering their line directly to the public at the same wholesale prices. Check out their website, where you’ll find a range of engagement rings, wedding rings and diamond jewelry.

Got Enough Stuff? Register For Your Honeymoon!

Tuesday, April 5th, 2011

Guest post by Dana at Deposit a Gift for BravoBride

With so many wedding registry choices available, how do you choose what’s right for you? To make things stickier, if you’re in the camp of feeling that you really don’t want or need a lot more ‘stuff,’ like so many of today’s couples are, is there a registry out there for you?

Enter: The Honeymoon Registry. The solution modern-minded couples are flocking to as an alternative to the traditional registry. If you aren’t yet familiar, hunker down and start dreaming about the most romantic trip you’ve ever taken…What better gift could there be than this?

What Is It?

A honeymoon registry is a gift list, the same as you would see at a department store, but instead of a list of pots, pans, linens and towels, it’s a list of:

• Nights in the honeymoon suite

• Breakfast in bed

• Excursions

• Wine at sunset

• A new camera to capture it all!

How Does It Work?

The most important thing to remember is that guests want to enjoy the gift-giving experience, so make it fun for them. The same as they would choose what they like from a list of traditional household items, they’ll want the option to contribute to a specific part of your romantic escapade, which is a lot more fun than donating to a pot. All this means is, try to avoid a blanket request to your honeymoon fund, but rather, tell them a bit about where you’d like to go and break up the trip into parts. Give a little, and you’ll get a lot.

Destination unknown? Don’t fret! You don’t have to share all the nitty gritty details. In fact it’s okay to say that you haven’t made up your mind yet, but instead say that you’re hoping to go somewhere Tropical, like a resort, or Rustic, like the mountains, and then create a list of general gift items that would suit any location…Anywhere you go, you’ll still need transportation, lodging, meals and of course a little pampering! In the end you’ll have the flexibility to spend where, when and how you want.

Will a Honeymoon Registry Work for a Shower?

Modern times call for modern solutions. Yesterday’s kitchen-themed shower is today’s ‘Honeymoon Shower.’ No matter what the theme, the shower host sets the tone. So simply communicate your preference for these types of gifts and let her do the rest. If you use Deposit a Gift for your honeymoon registry, a shower is a snap! Guests can choose to delay the electronic delivery of their gift until the day after the shower (so as not to ruin the surprise), and then bring a printable gift certificate to present in person.

The gift certificate can be presented in a card or in so many other creative ways:

• Encased in a picture frame

• Tucked into in a reusable bag that is perfect for the beach

• Attached to some sunscreen

• Wrapped in some sexy lingerie

Remember, it’s okay to have more than one registry, and if you’ve exhausted all your options for household needs and upgrades, consider registering for honeymoon experiences instead. At some point the china will chip and the sheets will fade, but a memorable trip lasts forever.

Dana Ostomel is the founder and Chief Gifting Officer of Deposit a Gift, a cash gift registry service. Years before Dana got married, she wondered how anyone could store so many presents—and even if they could, how they had the time to unwrap, return (often), track and use them all. Her marketing background led her to believe she could simplify the registry process—and not just for weddings, but for any big gifting event. And so Deposit a Gift, the next generation gift registry, was born. Read more about Dana. Follow Deposit a Gift on Facebook and Twitter.

How to be a good best man

Thursday, January 20th, 2011

Wiping cake from the Groom's face may be one of your duties. Photo by Emma Jane Photography.

Here are some helpful tips from our friend, Chris Easter and TheManRegistry.com to pass on to your fiancée’s best man.

Think being the best man simply means standing next to the groom during the wedding ceremony? Think again. The best man has several important duties to handle before, during and after the wedding. Not sure what the title entails? Don’t sweat – here’s a quick breakdown.

Before the wedding

  • Prior to the wedding day, the best man will be tasked with organizing the bachelor party for the groom. Talk with the groom to see what his expectations are and do your best to serve up an unforgettable last single night out with the guys. Need help? Enlist a couple of other groomsmen to help make the arrangements.
  • Also discuss with the groom if you’ll be expected to give a toast at either the rehearsal dinner or wedding reception. If so, you’ll need to set aside some time to work on your speech. To write a great speech, focus on a personal anecdote or two that highlights who the groom is as a person and any heart-felt observations about the couple, rather than dredging up embarrassing stories for shock value. The key is to keep it memorable, yet classy.
  • Part of the best man’s job may also call for helping the groom with planning details, such as arranging the wedding-day transportation or helping with the rehearsal dinner.

On the wedding day

  • On the day of the wedding, the best man serves as the groom’s right-hand man, making sure he gets dressed and to the church or ceremony location on time, administering some liquid courage (not too much, of course) and helping to calm any last-minute jitters. You’ll also be in charge of keeping the wedding rings safe until the ceremony and asked to sign the marriage certificate after the wedding.
  • After the reception, you may be asked to help the bride’s and groom’s families pack gifts into cars or drive the newlyweds to the hotel or airport, so make sure to celebrate responsibly.

After the wedding

  • The day after the wedding, the best man should return the groom’s tux to the rental shop. Make sure to find out the shop’s hours ahead of time, so you’re not charged for an extra day.

Wedding Day Gifts from the Bride to the Groom

Friday, December 10th, 2010

By Chris Easter from TheManRegistry.com

We love this gift! You can check the time and keep your money all in one place.

It’s wedding tradition that the bride and groom exchange gifts on the wedding day. These gifts can range from something expensive (digital camera) to something that doesn’t even cost a penny (handwritten wedding vows). The key is to put some thought into it and making

Here are five suggestions for brides seeking the perfect wedding day gift for their new husband:

1.) Vows – Let’s face it; the economy has affected many couples’ wedding budgets. Instead of having some extra cash to put towards a great gift for your man, you might have to save that cash for reception or flower costs. However, this doesn’t mean you still can’t come up with a unique and meaningful gift. Consider writing your own vows and reciting them at the altar as your gift.  If you’ve got a few extra dollars to spare, you could even purchase a small frame and have the vows framed for his office.

2.) Wedding Day Cufflinks – He’s going to need cufflinks for the big day. Why not get him a pair that he’ll be able to treasure for the rest of his life as opposed to the used pair the tux shop is going to give him? Engraved cufflinks are affordable and come in many styles. From classy stainless steel sets to quirky themed sets, you’ll definitely be able to find something unique to your groom.

3.) Money Clip – Most guys have torn up old wallets that store their cash, ID cards and credit cards. Taking that into account, a sharp, new money clip might be just what he needs to add a little organization to his life. The Personalized Money Clip offers a classy look while also leaving room for engraving. He’ll look like he just walked off the ‘Mad Men’ set!

4.) Wine Gifts – Do you and your groom share “wine time” at night or on the weekends? Why not celebrate your new marriage with a new wine glass set or engraved corkscrew? Unique wine gifts are great addition to your home décor and will leave a lasting memory of your wedding day.

5.) Golf Gifts –It’s no secret. Guys love golf. If you want to drop the big bucks – might I suggest a new set of golf clubs or a season pass to a favorite golf course? [Bonus advice – taking up golf as a couple is a great way to spend more time together.]

Brides, what are you planning on giving your groom as a wedding gift? Share with us in the comments below.

The 5 most romantic places to get engaged

Monday, November 9th, 2009

Our friends over at TheManRegistry just sent us some great tips on where to get engaged. Ladies, please forward this on to anyone you know who’s getting ready to take the plunge!

This ring is listed at half off!

This ring is listed at over half off!

You’ve got the engagement ring picked out. You know when you’re going to pop the question. Now all that’s left is to decide where and how you’re going to do it. Here’s our suggestions for romantic places to get down on one knee and pray she says yes. (Ignore the cliché’s and just go with it)

5.) Location of your first date – How about a blast from the past?  Tell her you’re going to a “surprise destination” for a date night. She’ll be pleasantly surprised to arrive where you took her on that first date. She’ll be pleasantly shocked when you pull out the ring!

4.) Cruise – We’re not talking about the 3-day weekend booze cruise to Mexico. Couples cruises are great for spending some 1 on 1 time and make the perfect opportunity for a proposal. We heard one story of a groom reserving en entire deck aboard the cruise ship for the engagement and then had the cruise director make an announcement at that night’s dinner. We expect nothing less from the groom-to-be’s reading this blog!

3.) Anywhere where it’s raining – Try to make it look like an accident.

2.) Hot-air balloon ride – You’re probably laughing because this is so cliché. But don’t knock it ‘til you’ve tried it.  Word to the wise: These guys book up fast for some reason. So, if you’ve got a date in mind – book it fast.

1.) Where you first met – Of course we’ve all seen this cheesily done in commercials or movies, but you can’t argue that it’s quite romantic. Whether it’s the mall, a bar or 8th grade science class – find a way to work it in. It’ll make for a great engagement story that will last a lifetime.

Is it OK to have a female Best Man or Groomsman?

Wednesday, July 29th, 2009

3593802473_f79816ddffCommon perception is that your Best Man and groomsmen are all guys. And based on 99.9% of weddings, this perception is true. However, selecting the people that are going to be standing next to you on the most important day of your life isn’t always that cut and dry.

Wedding party members should be chosen based on who you want to share this special moment with.  If your closest friend is girl or if you share a special bond with your sister, it’s perfectly acceptable to have her serve as Best Man (in a dress, not a tux).

The most important thing to remember is to think all wedding party member decisions through thoroughly. Remember, for 50% of you, this is the only wedding you’re going to have – so get it right!

Cheers!
———
Thanks to Chris at The Man Registry for answering this question.

The Man Registry: Michael Jackson Wedding Songs

Thursday, July 9th, 2009

3669630190_d1f3d740ca1

Watching the 24-7 Michael Jackson coverage the last few days got me thinking; what are the best Michael Jackson songs that are commonly played at weddings?

The Way You Make Me Feel

A very recognizable and fun song that can be played early on to get everyone up and going on the dance floor.

Favorite lyric – Ain’t nobody’s business, Ain’t nobody’s business (the way you make me feel).

I’ll Be There

This is my personal favorite Michael Jackson/Jackson 5 song. This is young Jacko at his best. I’ve seen the song done as the first dance as well as the mother/son dance.

Favorite lyric – “Let me fill your heart with joy and laughter. Togetherness, well , that’s all I’m after”

P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing)

Brides and grooms may want to hold back on this one until the older relatives have vacated. P.Y.T. is guaranteed to rock the dance floor (mainly because the single guests are going to be looking for a PYT of their own to end the night with).

Favorite lyric – Nothin’ Can Stop This Burnin’. Desire To Be With You. Gotta Get To You Baby. Won’t You Come, It’s Emergency.

I Just Can’t Stop Loving You

Here’s a classic from pre-Neverland Michael (remember him? me neither). It’s a first dance option, but more likely a slow dance for later in the reception.

Favorite lyric – I Just Can’t Stop Loving You. And If I Stop…Then Tell Me, Just What Will I Do?

Thriller

Enough said: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YT6InvLJUzA

Favorite lyric: You hear the door slam and realize there’s nowhere left to run. You feel the cold hand and wonder if you’ll ever see the sun

What Michael Jackson songs have BravoBride readers heard at weddings?

Is the groom playing golf?

Wednesday, June 10th, 2009

golfIt’s one of the biggest wedding clichés out there (especially on the groom’s side of the wedding)… golf on the wedding day.

As the groom, you’ve probably been asked if you’re getting up early and teeing it up on the morning of the wedding. If you happen to be a golfer, we’re guessing that the answer to this question is yes.

Speaking from experience, wedding day golf can be a lot of fun. When I got married last spring, we double dipped and played both on the bachelor party as well as the morning of the wedding. As corny as it may sound, it was a great way to spend some extra time with friends and family before I made that trip to the altar and had my “play time” significantly reduced.

If you can get a big enough group to together, there are some great ways to enhance the golf outing. Here are a few ideas:

  • Bride’s side vs. groom’s side – Make it a little more competitive by pitting the bride’s relatives against the groom’s relatives. We did this on my wedding day and added a twist by making the losing team buy lunch afterwards (groom’s side won, of course).
  • Scramble – Divide everyone up into teams of four and play a scramble or best ball tourney.  This allows the beginners to keep up with the pros.
  • Playing on the bachelor party? If it’s a bachelor party round of golf, that means the groom doesn’t have to worry about being on good behavior. Make him drink for every shot over par he goes. Hilarity will ensue as his golf game gets worse after each hole.

*Shameless TMR plug*

If you’re looking for groomsmen gift ideas for the golfing groomsmen, check out our golf towel gift set or personalized golf bar sign.
Cheers!

The Man Registry joins the fight against breast cancer

Friday, May 29th, 2009

tatasEach year, hundreds of thousands of Americans are diagnosed with breast cancer. It is a terrible disease that has surely affected the lives of many that are reading this.

As the 2009 wedding season hits full speed, The Man Registry is proud to announce that we’ll be donating a percentage from each of our wedding registry and groomsmen gift sales to The Save the Ta-Tas Foundation.

The Save the Ta-Tas Foundation was founded in 2008 and has already generated over $50,000 that has gone towards funding a dedicated breast cancer researcher. They are committed to fighting breast cancer at every stage, including education, prevention, community outreach, and emotional support for those struggling with the disease.  We chose to donate to Save the Ta-Tas because of their comprehensive approach and their mindset of “putting some fun into the fight.”

For more information on The Man Registry’s partnership with Save the Ta-Tas, please e-mail info@themanregistry.com or call 1-877-476-6601.

Information on Save the Ta-Tas
Breast cancer information

Wedding Day Attire Q/A for the Groom

Thursday, May 21st, 2009
This tux is listed on BravoBride for only $50, reduced from $300!

This tux is listed on BravoBride for only $50, reduced from $300!

The Man Registry and Mike Dee from The Wedding Guyed have teamed up to answer a few of the common questions that grooms have about their wedding day attire. Mike had just launched a new wedding blog for men and he’s got some great tips (as seen below) for the grooms out there!

Tux vs. Suit

The only major difference between a black suit and a tuxedo is the satin stripe down the pants and the shiny lapel.

Buying vs. renting

Photos are forever and video makes you immortal.  With that said you will want to look your best. Rental tuxedos are one size fit most. I recommend that the groom purchase a tuxedo and get it custom tailored. The accessories (Vest kits, shirts and shoes.) can be rented for around $20-$50. Your future wife will thank you for it.

When to book

Book early. 3-6 months is ideal.  Picking the styles and colors are your personal preference. The best time to shop for a tux is early in the week and in the afternoon.  Most retail stores are empty and you will get a better service experience.  If your wedding is during prom season, book your final fittings during school hours to avoid being in a small shop with a bunch of teenage boys.

Where to book – Mom and Pop Shop vs. Click and Mortar:

In this dot com era there are very few local tuxedo shops left.  If you are doing a local wedding where all your groomsman are in the same area, use a local shop.  A local shop will likely carry stock. In other words, they will have the tuxedos, vests and shoes on hand for you to look at and  try on (unlike the mall stores with just the picture books). Click and Mortar (aka big chain formal wear stores) retailers have some big advantages over the little guy.  The main advantage is being able to accommodate a bridal party across the state and across the nation.  These places will carry more inventory and more current styles then your local mom and pop shop.  They will have online reservation and tracking systems in place to help you set up your group’s package and some will offer you your very own group planning expert. The national average price for a rental ranges between $120-$200.

*** Always remember that if the wedding date is late April-Mid June, you are competing with prom kids. The local store will always take preference to the prom kids (Multiple tux rental from his group or school, repeat business for the next prom and a possible future wedding.) over your request as a groom.  Also keep in mind when you go for your fitting, you may have to wait in line behind 20 teenagers.
Cheers!

Related Posts Plugin for WordPress, Blogger...