Fashion Friday

Runway Report

Rivini Fall 2010 Collection.

Here are the newest creations from Rita Vinieris, who in her own words describes the style to be "very modern with classic styling."  I personally love each and every one of these show stopping gowns.

Rock Talk

Rock Talk

The Simple Facts about the Symbol of Your Love!

Did you know that thirty-nine percent of proposals occur between November and February? With the most of those being in December. So we're guessing a few of you got engaged last month and there are few more of you who will be soon.  Along with the proposal, there is a ring, so here are a few helpful facts about the symbol of your love and a few tips on how to keep it looking beautiful!

The Four Cs
When it comes to engagement rings, diamonds are hands down the most popular choice in gemstones. They’re valued according to the four Cs – color, clarity, cut, and carat size.

COLOR The color refers to the color (of course!) of the diamond. While white is the most desirable of all colors for engagement rings, diamonds come in many different colors.
The following letter scale grades a diamond’s color:
D, E, F – colorless
G, H, I – nearly colorless
J, K, L – slightly yellow
M, N, O – light yellow

Anything further down the alphabet is considered yellow and therefore less desirable. The Z grade, which is given to fancy-colored diamonds, is the rarest and most expensive grade.

CLARITY The clarity of a diamond refers to how clean or clear the diamond appears. The following scale grades a diamond’s clarity:
Flawless – free from inclusions (imperfections inside the diamond) and blemishes
Internally flawless – free from inclusions, but may have slight blemishes when viewed under magnification
VVS1 and VVS2 – considered very, very slightly included and has minute inclusions or blemishes when viewed under magnification
VS1 and VS2 – considered very slightly included with inclusions and blemishes smaller than a grain of salt when viewed under magnification
SI1 – slightly included with inclusions and blemishes larger than a grain of salt when viewed under magnification. Most of the flaws cannot be seen with the naked eye
SI2 – slightly included with the same flaws as an SI1 grade, though some of the flaws may be visible to the naked eye
I1 and I2 – considered an imperfect stone with inclusions and blemishes visible to the naked eye that may make the stone appear cloudy and dull

CUT  The cut of a diamond refers to the actual shape of the stone, along with the proportions, which can determine how well the diamond sparkles. The most popular remains the classic round cut but many couples are choosing the square-shaped princess cut for a more unique look. If square and round are just too status quo for your taste, there’s marquise, pear, oval, or emerald cuts to choose from as well. And don’t worry about choosing a cut that’s popular; the great thing about diamonds is that they never go out of style.

CARAT We’re down to the last C, which to many brides is the most important: carat. The carat weight of diamond refers to its actual weight, not necessarily its size. There is no industry standard when it comes to a stone’s carat weight, and it’s important to keep in mind that a large carat weight doesn’t necessarily make for a beautiful or valuable diamond. The right combination of the four Cs, according to your own personal preferences, is the best way to choose the perfect diamond for your engagement or wedding ring.

Karats vs. Carats  

If you’ve read this far you already know that carat refers to the weight of the gemstone. But what about karat? The word karat, or K, is used to describe the fineness of gold with 24K being the most pure. Gold that is 18K consists of 75% gold combined with another metal for strength, and 14K gold is 58.5% pure gold mixed with 41.5% of other metals. Most gold ring settings are either 18K or 14K; pure 24K gold is much too soft and can bend or become scratched very easily.
GOLD comes in both yellow and white colors, making it a versatile choice for ring settings. White gold begins its life as yellow gold, which is mixed with another metal such as nickel or palladium to give it a white appearance. Whether you choose yellow or white gold is up to you, but keep in mind that the prongs on the setting should be created from white gold or platinum only. Yellow gold prongs could give your diamond a yellowish cast.
PLATINUM has become the most popular metal for ring settings. It’s rarer and stronger than gold, which of course makes it more expensive! But the strength, shine, and everlasting white color of platinum makes it a great choice for diamond ring settings, and many couples feel it’s worth the extra expense.
When choosing the setting for your rings, it all comes down to personal preference. You’re the one who will be wearing the ring for the rest of your life, so be sure you choose what you like best regardless of it’s popularity with other consumers. 

GEOMETRY LESSON
Just like women, diamonds come in all shapes and sizes.
Here’s a cheat sheet to help you choose your favorite shape.

 Here are three of our favorite cuts.
All the rings are by Jean Dousset Diamonds

EVA Asscher Cut
Starting price including center stone: $11,000

Riviera Round Cut
Starting price including center stone: $13,000

Victoria Cushion Cut
Starting price including center stone: $15,000 

 

Let it shine
Normal wear and tear can make your engagement and wedding rings appear dirty and dull. Soap scum, moisturizers, and the natural oils from your skin can make even the highest quality diamond less brilliant. But the good news is that there are a couple of different ways to bring the sparkle back into your baubles.
First, try a good old-fashioned scrubbing at home. Soak your rings for about 10 minutes in a simple solution of two-parts water and one-part sudsy ammonia. When you remove the rings from the solution, scrub the top and underneath with a clean, medium bristled toothbrush. Rinse in warm water, and then dry your rings with a lint-free towel.
Ultrasonic cleaners are another easy way to clean your rings at home. Ultrasonic cleaners contain a cleaning solution in which shock waves are sent through to vibrate dirt and debris from your rings. While this is a great alternative for diamonds and metals, not all ultrasonic cleaners are safe for all gems. Read the manufacturers directions carefully and if you’re in doubt, don’t try it out.
You can also take your rings to a professional jeweler for cleaning and while you’re there, have the prongs checked to make sure the stone isn’t loose. If you choose this route, it’s important to mention that you should only leave your rings with a jeweler that you know and trust to protect yourself from theft. While it’s extremely rare that your diamond would be switched, you’d hate to be on the receiving end of that worst-case scenario.

Real Wedding Wednesday!

Melissa Miner & Brendan Peirce

The Crosby at Rancho Santa Fe

Exactly two years after meeting each other, Brendan Peirce whisked Melissa Miner away to a dreamy weekend in Vail, Colorado. He proposed with a romantic set of three boxes, each one containing a thoughtful gift for his bride-to-be. The first was a letter written for her. The second contained the engagement ring, which he presented to her on one knee as she tearfully finished the letter. The final package contained a photo album depicting Brendan’s voyage overseas in search of the perfect stone for her ring and the craftsman who designed it. The very last page of the book was entitled, “The Beginning”. Their fairytale journey together continued with a classic black and white wedding at The Crosby at Rancho Santa Fe.

Melissa’s Advice:
“Be happy. Take it all in. Don’t fret.”

Ingredients
Ceremony and Reception Venue  The Crosby at Rancho Santa Fe   

Coordinator Ever After Events (Jamie Renfro)  

Officiant Sam Cameron   

Photography Schnack Studios 

 Video Cysfilm 

Florist Hannah Lockhart Designs 
Linens Platinum Party Rentals 
Entertainment DJ Profile & Iron Mike
Catering The Crosby at Rancho Santa Fe 
Wedding Cake VG Bakery 
Invitations Papyrus
Dress Rose De Simone Bridal
Jewelry/Rings Aurell Jewelry Design 
Photo Booth Classy Photo Booths
Rentals Arc de Belle
Honeymoon Europe

The Rules Of Engagement

Photo ©Bob Hoffman Video & Photography

The Rules of Engagement
From “Yes!” to “I Do” in 10 Easy Steps

For many brides to be, the initial euphoria and bliss that comes after saying “yes” is soon followed by a state of panic with the realization that it is time to start planning a (gulp!) wedding. Take a deep breath and read on. We’re here to help guide you through the key steps ensuring that you are planning the wedding of your dreams. And remember, you have found the man of your dreams—so you’re already halfway there!

 

 

Photo ©Dapper Images

Choose Your Rings
Today, many couples shop together for their wedding rings. These symbols of your commitment to each other should fit perfectly both on your ring fingers and within your budget. Don’t get caught up in the myth that a ring should cost two months salary. Every couple has a different budget, and the ring purchase should and can fit within what you can afford without breaking the bank.

When you are shopping, remember the four “Cs” – cut, color, clarity and carat. Visit jewelers recommended by friends, relatives or co-workers and keep in mind that though many jewelers feature various finished products, you are still able to customize your rings so that they are a perfect match for your personal style, taste and budget.

Photo ©White Haute Photography

Determine Your Wedding Day Budget
We have all heard the horror stories of big, blow-out weddings that end up causing couples to take second jobs and second mortgages—ultimately resulting in second thoughts. Though the budget you are able to set aside for your big day will be a major determining factor in the type of wedding you have, it should by no means cause severe strain on your finances or your relationship.

In some cases, the parents of the bride and/or groom offer to chip in to offset at least some, if not all of the costs. If your folks are these magnanimous types, be sure to have the budget conversation up front in order to set reasonable expectations, and determine precisely what they are willing to pay for and how much they are willing to spend. Sit down as a group with a calculator and your “wish list,” and be willing to be flexible. Be respectful and appreciative of their generosity– in most cases, just because the money is not coming out of your bank account does not mean you can throw caution to the wind while doling out the dollars.

Photo ©Dapper Images

Pick the Season
Before you set your hearts on any particular date for your nuptials and circle it on your calendar with a big, red heart, consider first the season you envision walking down the aisle.

In California the height of wedding season naturally falls within the months where the weather is optimal. Springtime and fall here are filled with any number of sunny days that fade seamlessly into warm, comfortable nights. Winter weddings in California are also popular, and rarely do couples need to worry about snow, sleet or ice putting a damper on their big day.

Summer weddings in California can be hot, but in San Diego the weather is usually perfect. But if you plan your day during June, July and August can lead to lots of perks. In the summer months (fewer tourist), some of the coolest venues can offer you increased availability and price breaks.

Photo ©Dapper Images

Secure Your Ceremony and Reception Locations
After you determine if you will be a winter, spring, summer or fall bride, keep a few potential dates in mind as you search for the location of your dreams. Availability at the most popular venues is limited and fills up fast, and your wedding date will most likely be determined by the open dates at your choice location.

Ask around for recommendations and then visit as many potential venues as possible. Set appointments with on-site event planners to get full facility tours. As you narrow your list, it is smart to re-visit your favorite locations on days when weddings are actually taking place in order to get a sense of what you can actually expect on the day of your ceremony and/or reception.

Finally, take time to ask questions and research all costs before securing a contract. The rental fee for the venue may be minimal in comparison to what it will cost to utilize the bar services, catering options, linens, set-up and service.

Photo ©Siegel Thurston Photography

Find a Dress
Finally – the fun part! For many brides, finding the perfect dress is something they have imagined since they can remember.

The choices and styles of gowns are endless, all with different silhouettes, necklines, materials, detailing and price range. Remember to take your wedding date and location into account, and choose a gown that is weather-appropriate.

Most importantly, try on as many dresses as possible, and have your winning selection tailored. Take your family and best girl friends to get their feedback and opinions, as the pure volume of the gowns available can be overwhelming to sort through on your own.

Photo ©White Haute Photography

Research and Book Your Vendors
Unless you are hiring a wedding planner to coordinate the details of making sure you have everyone and everything you need working together at your wedding, you will need to thoroughly research and select an officiant, photographer, videographer, entertainment, transportation service and caterer, as well as place orders for your cake, flowers, décor, linens and any other details to make your special day come off without a hitch.

Your best bet is to ask your trusted family members, friends and co-workers for recommendations, and ask to see examples of what the products and services you are ordering have looked like for past weddings.

Photo ©Tangerine Tree Photography

Select Your Colors
The rule of thumb for choosing a color scheme for your wedding is to determine one a main color, and two corresponding accent colors. Keep the time of year and your venue in mind when making these selections – especially since the color focus in many weddings shows up most apparently throughout floral arrangements. Certain flowers may not be in season during the time of year of your wedding; so while determining colors keep your décor in mind.

Photo ©Bob Hoffman Video & Photography

Plan Your Cocktail Hour/Reception
Set up a timeline of when announcements and toasts can be made, as well as when you want your dinner service and any other special moments you may have planned to start and end. Brevity is usually appreciated most by your guests, who are just as anxious as you to get the party started on the dance floor!

Photo ©White Haute Photography

Send a Save the Date Announcement, to Be Followed by the Official Invitation
Many couples are sending out a save the date announcement to their invited guests several months before the planned wedding date.

This announcement gives your guests—especially those who may be traveling significant distances to attend—time to plan and book travel, if necessary.

The official invitation your guests can use to RSVP should be mailed six to eight weeks before the date.

Relax, Knowing You Have Planned and Are Prepared.

It is easy to get carried away in the details of planning your wedding, but above all, remember to enjoy the moment knowing you have found the one and are embarking on not only the celebration of a lifetime, but also the marriage of your dreams.