How to Choose New York Jewelers When Buying a Diamond Engagement Ring

The famous Diamond District in NYC is home to over 4,000 jewelers as well as wholesalers. These New York jewelers congregate in a small area in Midtown Manhattan, where you’ll find a constellation of jewelry shops selling diamonds and fine jewelry—including engagement rings. This small district generates a whopping $24 billion in sales annually and over 90% of diamonds that are imported into the United States pass hands through this district before being distributed to retailers in other parts of the country.
  
Whether you’re serious about buying a diamond engagement ring or are simply looking around, you’ll likely find an overwhelming number of New York jewelers showcasing a dizzying array of diamond rings. Here are some tips on navigating this famed district and how to get the best value.

First of all, come at the right time. Sundays are no good as most shops are only open from Mondays to Saturdays, closing by 5.30pm. Some stores only accept visitors by appointment, so do call ahead.

Before you even consider handing over your credit card, check if the diamonds have grading reports from GIA or other reliable third-party labs such as AGS. Are you interested in colored gemstones and colored diamonds? Check if the color is natural or if the stone underwent any form of treatment.

To the uninitiated, NYC’s Diamond District can be a huge shark tank filled with aggressive salespeople trying to rip off unsuspecting buyers. Don’t get sucked into their scams.

Be wary of “record low prices” or “wholesale deals” because they are usually never true. Do some online research so that you know the average price of certain diamond sizes? Don’t expect New York jewelers to take time to educate you and honestly disclose the negative aspects of the diamond you are looking to buy. Come with a list of engagement rings styles plus pictures. This will make the process of finding that perfect ring much easier.

How to Choose a Wedding Venue in Atlanta That Is Right for You

There are so many wedding venues in Atlanta—from clubs to banquet halls, from gardens to hotel ballrooms. There are all sorts of places to choose from within the city or within a comfortable driving distance. Whether you want to throw low-key an outdoor wedding for 50 guests or a formal reception for 500, the key is to find an Atlanta wedding venue with the right vibe that matches the theme of your big day. Ask yourself: what is ideal for you? Here are some tips to help you figure that out.

1. Check if the architecture and overall look is your taste. You can always change the flowers and general color scheme, but you can’t do anything about the bones of the venue. Are you going for a laid-back country style vibe? Then you probably shouldn’t waste time look at gilded hotel ballrooms or Baroque-style restaurants.

2. Consider the season. Some venues look stunning in the summer but are blah in the winter, while others look gorgeous in the colder months.

3. Ask if they can provide a wedding planner if you don’t already have one. Having a professional by your side to help plan the details can ease your stress and make the day of your dreams a reality.

4. Do they offer in-house catering? If yes, be sure to schedule a tasting to see how you like their food. If your intention is to hire an outside caterer, make sure that the venue doesn’t have any restrictions (most of them do).

5. Take photos not only of the actual room or space but of the building and surrounding areas. These elements will be the backdrop of your wedding photos, so you better love them.

6. Make sure the Atlanta venue can fit your guests comfortably. Check if there are enough parking spaces, too.

Surprise the Groomsmen with Unique Gifts - Get Ideas

A groom must never forget to thank his groomsmen with small gifts. Just as brides always give their bridesmaids a little something, the groom should also show appreciation for his groomsmen. The gift does not have to be extravagant. The key is to choose a small but meaningful and useful token to say thank you for being all the help with the wedding and for the many years of friendship. Here are some ideas for groomsmen gifts:

•    Something for the wedding – You can give your groomsmen practical things that they can use for the wedding. If you are having a beach wedding, for example, why not give them sunglasses? You may also present them with matching bow ties or ties.

•    Something they like – Don’t forget to consider what your groomsmen are into. Maybe you have a groomsman who is into fishing. Why not gift him with a bait set?

•    Something party-ready – If your groomsmen are party boys, then they’ll definitely like a bottle of their favorite drinks, be it beer or whisky. For those with a smaller budget, a belt with a bottle opener can be a cool gift, too.

•    Something personalized – If you really have no idea what to give your groomsmen, you can always choose something generic and put their names on it. Luxurious embroidered towels with their initials will always be appreciated. They can even use these towels when preparing for your wedding.

When it comes to giving gifts to groomsmen, it’s the thought that counts. If you need more ideas, you can always use a wedding planner app. Wedding planner apps usually have a list of souvenir and party favor providers in your area. What’s more, an app can give you access to forums where you can ask other people what kind of groomsmen gifts they are giving away so you can get even more ideas.

Summer Wedding Flower Collection - Choose your Suppliers

Your flowers will tie up the look and vibe of your entire wedding. If you are getting married in the summer, then you have the opportunity to use cheery blooms in reds and oranges. Choose a supplier who is highly experienced in handling summer blooms and summer weddings for best results. Flowers need to be handled with special care during the hot months because they tend to wilt fast—often, even before the reception starts.

Create a list of prospective flower suppliers so you can compare prices and experience. Never choose the first florist you find. It’s always best to shop around. Use a wedding planner app where you can find a list of florists close to your wedding venue. You may also check out the forums and see which florists can be trusted according to other brides. Reviews from actual customers can say a lot about the supplier.

Request for a portfolio from your prospective florists. Look at pictures of the wedding arrangements they have created before. Do you like their aesthetic? It can also be a good idea to meet up with your floral suppliers in person, in their shops. This way, you can get a better idea on what to expect for your wedding day. Check the flowers they sell. Do they look fresh? You should also ask about where the flowers come from.

When you order a summer wedding flower collection, the supplier will typically handle everything you will need—flowers for the aisle, your bouquet, the corsages, and even the centerpieces on the table. You can trust an experienced florist to choose the most suitable summer flowers for your wedding. Be sure to talk to them about your theme to ensure that the flowers will be in sync with your concept. You should also disclose any allergies you might have to certain flowers. You don’t want to sneeze your way through your wedding!

Do's and Don'ts When Selecting Hairstyles for Bridesmaids

Do's and Don'ts When Selecting Hairstyles for Bridesmaids

Your hair is your crowning glory and if you want your bridesmaids to look just as far as you, here are some dos and don’ts when selecting a hairstyle for them:
   
•    DO ask your bridesmaids about their opinions – Ask your bridesmaids if they have any suggestions on what hairstyle looks good on them. After all, they’ll be the one wearing the do on your special day.
•    DON’T be a bridezilla – Just because it’s your big day doesn’t mean you should take away the freedom of your bridesmaids in selecting their own hairstyle.
•    DO settle on a dress first – Before you select a hairstyle, you should know what kind of dress your bridesmaids will be wearing. Knowing the style of the dress can help you select an appropriate hairstyle. For example, an off-shoulder bridesmaid dress will look fantastic with a chignon.
•    DON’T be afraid to mix it up – Your bridesmaids don’t have to wear the same hairstyle. After all, everyone looks different and a single hairstyle may not fit all.
•    DO get advice – You can ask your own hairstylist on what hairstyle for your bridesmaids will be complement your own. It also pays to use wedding planner apps where you can find forums for other brides-to-be.
•    DON’T surprise your bridesmaids – Some brides forgo make-up and hair-do trials for their bridesmaids because they lack time or simply think it doesn’t matter. Well, it does. Your bridesmaids are usually your closest friends and family members, and they deserve to look their best, too.

If you and your bridesmaids would rather go for a DIY hairstyle on your wedding, make it fun. Set up a spa party where you and your bridesmaids can try out different hair-dos. It can be an excellent way to bond and may also even be the highlight of your bachelorette party!

The engagement ring is the first step to making things official between you and the person you want to marry. It shows that you are committed to loving your partner for the rest of your life. For this reason, it makes sense to buy the most attractive engagement ring that showcases your everlasting love. Finding the perfect ring in Chicago does not have to feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. With the right guidance and a good wedding planner app, you can explore the selection of jewelers and jewelry stores specializing in making the most beautiful and remarkable engagement rings you can afford.

The custom of giving an engagement ring to the person you want to marry is not universal, but it certainly symbolizes universal customs in courtship and betrothal. This ring is a representation of your unwavering commitment to fulfill your promise to marry. Different stones and metals can be combined according to your preferences and what message you want to convey. Some of the best jewelry shops in Chicago offer ready-made engagement rings that can simply be resized to fit your partner, but you can also order a custom ring that is unlike any other.

The engagement ring is not merely a symbol of the impending union between you and your betrothed—it can also become a fashion statement and a status symbol. Hence, you need to be careful when choosing an engagement ring. With a bit of research, you should be able to find out what your future spouse wants, including his or her size, the style he or she prefers, and the store where you can buy it for the right price. Use a wedding planner app that has a directory of wedding and engagement ring vendors in Chicago, so you can easily narrow down the choices.

Feel the Perfect Legacy at St. LuciaHoneymoon Destination

The honeymoon is easily the most exciting part of being newlyweds. You can let go of all the pressures and stress of throwing the wedding and go for an adventure out of town. One of the best honeymoon destinations in the world (according to World Travel Award) is the St. Lucia Island. This little island is known for its black and white sand beaches, luxuriant rainforest, and beautiful landscapes. Here, you can enjoy romantic getaways and experience all-in-one honeymoon packages that match your travel preferences.

Since St. Lucia is a remote island in the southern Caribbean region, the best way to spend your honeymoon there is to go for an all-inclusive package. They are easy to purchase if you use a wedding planning app that lets you easily compare prices. There are lots of hotels and resorts that offer all sorts of packages for honeymooners in St. Lucia. If you want an exclusive space on the island where you can enjoy some quiet and privacy, then be sure to book an adults-only type of resort.

Although it is a small island, St. Lucia is home to world class hotels that offer comfort and luxury, as well the best service. Here are some of the top-listed hotels and resorts in St. Lucia:

•    Jade Mountain

One of the top resorts in the island, Jade Mountain offers a luxurious getaway that you and your spouse will surely love to experience. Their all-in-one package includes a snorkeling adventure experience for two. The hotel rooms are also elegant and the service is always topnotch.

•    Sugar Beach

Tucked in 100 acres of beautiful landscape across a proud and green valley in St. Lucia Island, this resort gives you a private butler as part of your all-in-one honeymoon package. Snorkeling is also available here.

•    Coconut Beach

This resort is less costly than the first two but still offers VIP services. With your all-inclusive package in Coconut Beach, you get access to all the amenities of the hotel, including the spa, Jacuzzi, and pools.

Tips for Picking the Best Wedding Venuesin Houston

If you are planning on getting married in Houston, then you will be delighted to know that there are many venues to choose from in the city. Whether you’re looking to throw a classic wedding or a quirky vintage type of celebration, you will find the perfect venue in Houston. Here are some tips to help you in picking up the best location for your big day:

•    Decide on the Set Up

Imagine what kind of setting you want for your wedding. Visualize everything in that environment you want to create: the kind of atmosphere, the thickness and/or thinness of layers of light, colors, and textures, and the feel you want to establish. Having a clear picture of your wedding set up will make it easier to choose the most appropriate wedding venue.

•    Consider Your Budget

Be sure to have a number in mind—and stick to it. Be realistic and set aside a good amount of money to spend on your wedding day, but don’t go over the limit. You have to understand that your wedding day is just one day; it should be special, but it shouldn’t be financially stressful. Spending too much will cause you to start your married life in debt—and that’s never romantic.

•    Get Help   

Ask your friends or relatives if they can recommend a venue. Better yet, get online help. You can use a wedding planner app to search for the best wedding venues in Houston that will suit to your preferences. You can filter your search based on factors like price range, seating capacity, look and feel of the venue, etc. Once you have a shortlist of venues, you can set up an appointment and check each one out before you book the place.

How to Choose Wedding Jewelers in New York

As a bride, you will be the center of attention on your wedding day. All eyes will be on you, so you need to look perfect—from your hair right down to your toes. One of the best ways to accessorize yourself is to wear elegant jewelry. If you are looking for a wedding jeweler in New York, here are some things to consider:

•    Specialization – Not all jewelers in New York offer wedding accessories. See to it that the wedding jeweler is able to offer a wide range of pieces to choose from. The jewelry you must wear must accentuate your face while complementing your dress.

•    Years in the business – You can tell a lot about jewelers by finding out how long they have been in operation. If the wedding jeweler has a lot of years of relevant experience or is well-known and established in New York, then that is a positive sign.

•    Guarantees and warranties – It’s no secret that wedding jewelry can be expensive. If the wedding jeweler does not offer a guarantee or warranty for the products, it’s best to go elsewhere.

•    Extras – Some of the best jewelers also offer other wedding products and services. It’s a good idea to purchase sets to make your life easier. For example, if your gown-maker also offers wedding jewelry, it might be better to purchase from him or her instead of going to another vendor.

You can easily find wedding jewelers in New York by simply walking around the city. It also pays to flip through available bridal magazines or search online. Get tips from relatives or colleagues who have already or are also getting married. One of the easiest ways to choose a wedding jeweler in New York is to use a wedding planner app. You can find reviews from other brides or even read forums on which New York wedding jeweler is the best.

Everything you need to know about Party Rentals in Miami

Miami is one of the hottest spots for parties. The city is well-known for its pool parties, clubs, bars, and other entertainment and nightlife establishments. It’s no surprise that you can find party rentals here to meet your needs and budgets. Here are some tips to help you find the best party rentals in Miami:

•    If you have recently attended a party and enjoyed it, ask the host about the party rental vendor. You can also go online and check the best party rental vendors in Miami. To make your life easier, you can even use apps where there are forums regarding Miami party rentals and other party vendors.

•    Shop around. Don’t hire the first vendor you come upon. It’s best to check out other party rental vendors to know the rates as well as the offers.

•    See what is included. Each party rental vendor in Miami offers different packages. Some may seem similar but others standout for throwing in extras. For example, party rentals usually only includes the basics, which is the tables and chairs, others can also include a dance floor, a platform, or audio visual equipment.

•    Book early. It gets busy in Miami especially during spring break and other holidays. Be sure to book party rentals as soon as you can.

•    Opt for just one vendor. Some party rentals in Miami can offer everything you will ever need—from the catering right down to the e-vites for your guests. It’s easier to throw a party when you only need to talk to one vendor. Choose Miami party rentals that can supply you with all of your requirements at a price that you can afford.

•    Take advantage of the weather. Since you are in Miami, you can throw pool parties and other fun, outdoor events. The wet season starts around May, so you should rent a tent, too if you plan on throwing a party during this time.

Top 10 Wedding Venues in San Diego

San Diego is home to many different kinds of wedding venues, so you should never run out of choices. The places range from high-end halls to unusual spots and dedicated wedding venues. Going through all the options in can become overwhelming and confusing, especially if you are pressed for time. To save you from that hassle, here are the top 10 wedding venues that you can consider in the city:

1.    San Diego Women's Club – It may be small, but its historic colonial clubhouse is a perfect venue for a timeless and elegant wedding. It can host parties with more than 240 guests, with a dance floor and dinner served.

2.    Hilton San Diego Bayfront – The Hilton offers surprisingly cost-effective wedding venues that may be more budget-friendly than other party halls in southern California. Their KISS (Keep it Short and Simple) package is one of the things that you should consider as it provides an on-site wedding planner and an experienced staff to help you plan your perfect wedding. The package ensures affordable rates, too.

3.    Wedding and Event Designers – This group has been providing unique outdoor and indoor wedding venues in San Diego for more than three decades, making them one of the most reputable and trustworthy providers. Some of their best options are Rose Creek Cottage for a small party, and Ocean View Church for a large party.

4.    Japanese Friendship Garden – This is a great choice if you want a natural setting for a romantic wedding. It overlooks Balboa Park, and it features exotic trees, fountains, and lush pools.

5.    Horton Grand Hotel – Since the 1880s, the Horton Grand Hotel has been known as an elaborate facility with a courtyard that serves as a banquet hall with a New Orleans-inspired design.

6.    Columbus Club – It may be the site of the local Knights of Columbus, but it can be transformed into a cost-effective wedding venue that has room for 300 guests. You do not need to be a Knight to take advantage of the best prices that the club offers.

7.    The University Club Atop Symphony Towers – This stylish venue is among the most experienced wedding venues that offers affordable packages. Working with its wedding planners and staff ensures that your wedding is in good hands with the most seasoned and experienced professionals.

8.    Liberty Station – It has NTC venues that can be customized to create a unique wedding reception, no matter how many guests you have. The service comes with experienced planners that can arrange anything from small garden weddings to modern and grand wedding parties.

9.    Rancho Bernardo Inn – This golf resort and spa is great for couples who would like to have a grand and elegant wedding at a gorgeous and high-end location. It has seven different reception venues, so you should be able to find the right one that suits your theme.

10.     Grand Tradition Estate – This venue offers an outdoor wedding area (the Arbor Terrace) and an indoor location (the Beverly Mansion) for traditional weddings.

Things to Remember While Choosing Banquet Halls in Chicago

Banquet halls in Chicago range from cosmopolitan and modern, stylish venues to traditional and timeless spaces where you can have your wedding party. Choosing a banquet hall can become overwhelming for the newly engaged couple, but identifying certain factors like the budget, number of guests, and the type of wedding or wedding theme can help narrow down their choices. Here are some things to remember when choosing banquet halls in Chicago:

•    Choose a banquet hall where all guests can fit – An enormous hall could dwarf a small wedding party and make the occasion look and feel cold. Hence, make sure the size of the hall is just right for your guests. There should be room to move around, but not too much that the space feels empty.

•    Find out the amenities that the banquet hall offers – Some venues offer catering, tables and chairs, and decorations. They can also recommend approved vendors.

•    Determine the location of the banquet hall – There are some affordable halls in the outskirts of Chicago, but the distance could be inconvenient and discouraging to some guests. Hence, be sure that your guests can have easy access to your reception venue, or consider arranging a van or a bus to take them to the place if it is too far. Otherwise, go for a venue within Chicago itself, so it is easy to find.

•    Consider visiting the banquet hall when there is an on-going event – This can give you an idea on what it looks like with decorations, tables, chairs, and lighting. It is a good time to assess the interiors and condition of the venue, too, so you can be sure that it completely suits your wedding theme.

•    Use a wedding planner app – This can help you narrow down the choices in banquet halls, so you can save time and compare the venues in one sitting.

Look For the Trendiest Wedding Dresses in New York

New York wedding dresses are known for their sophisticated styles and ultra-modern looks, making them perfect for the cosmopolitan and modern bride. Modern wedding dresses are the ultimate expression of a bride's personality and style. Hence, they are perfect for brides who want to stand out and make sure that their wedding is truly their own. If you are looking for the trendiest wedding dresses in New York, consider using a wedding planning app that can help you pick only the best stores and designers in the Big Apple or throughout the state.

Sheer and soft sleeves that have hints of lace are among the trendiest wedding dresses among New York brides. Lace is timeless and offers a delicate and elegant touch to any wedding dress. The material may seem a traditional choice, but it can easily be incorporated into contemporary wedding dress designs to create a truly bespoke look.  Textured adornments like lace can breathe life into a wedding gown. Floral appliques are some of the other timeless materials that you can consider. Go for a three-dimensional embellishment, which can transform a romantic wedding dress look a bit more modern and trendy.

Are you a modern bride seeking colors other than white for your wedding dress? Silver is one of the trendiest colors you can use. The right textures from a combination of floral appliques, layers of silk organza, a contrasting bow belt, or lace can make a light silver dress look more sophisticated and elegant.

Off-shoulder designs are trendy in New York, too. Consider an embroidered organza cocktail-length dress with an A-line skirt, a floral bodice, and short sleeves for a city hall wedding, so you can move with ease. If you prefer a longer skirt, go for a design that features a soft tulle skirt that flows gracefully with you as you walk.

Find an Affordable Catering Service for Your Wedding in Houston

An average of thirty percent of the wedding funds will go to food. If you are on a tight budget, scrimping on the caterer seems like the best thing to do. However, choosing the cheapest caterer does not necessarily mean you can save money, especially when you end up hiring a low-quality service provider. Hence, take a look at these tips to find an affordable catering service for your wedding in Houston, while making sure that you can serve high-quality and delicious food to your guests:

•    Check with your reception venue – Many venues have preferred caterers, so be sure to look that up first, especially if you have chosen the venue prior to everything else.

•    Determine the time your reception will take place – Make sure the caterer is available on the day of your wedding and make sure you find out the payment and booking process that are involved. It is best to start looking for caterers, attending food tasting events, and meet with caterers, at least, nine months before the big day.

•    Use a wedding planning app – This can help you save time researching caterers in your area. With an app, you can easily find caterers and narrow down the search to only the best and highly acclaimed ones in Houston.

•    Serve the right food – You can save money when hiring a caterer when you choose to serve the right kind of food. Do not automatically go for a full meal when you have a casual or informal morning ceremony. Consider serving light food such as coffee, cake, and champagne. If you are having a more formal wedding, consider a mid-afternoon ceremony followed by cocktails, cake, and passed hors d'oeuvres. A dessert buffet can be a creative twist to a trendy and funky evening event.

•    Serve brunch or lunch – Food choices for lunch or brunch are often more affordable than the options for dinner. People tend to drink and eat less during the day, too.

Important Ingredients to a Perfect San Francisco City Hall Wedding

The San Francisco City Hall is one of the most beautiful wedding venues in America. It is a gorgeous building with perfect lighting and picture perfect spots. Contrary to popular belief is not merely for local couples who are looking to have an incredible civil ceremony—people who are not from San Francisco can have their wedding there, too. If you are looking to do this, then these tips should help you plan your San Francisco City Hall wedding:

• Explore the wedding options – A standard civil ceremony is the most cost-effective wedding option in San Francisco City Hall. Arrange an appointment to obtain a marriage license, pay for the administrative fee, and arrange another appointment for the civil ceremony. The wedding will be officiated by an in-house commissioner and the ceremony typically takes about five minutes. You may book the civil ceremony 90 days in advance, and you can have up to six guests to serve as witnesses.
  
  Another option is to reserve the Mayor's Balcony or the fourth floor gallery if you want a more private space and have more guests. However, you need to set a budget for this. A table and several chairs will be provided to let your guests sit comfortably for the ceremony, and snacks and champagne can be served afterward. You may bring your officiant if you do not wish to use a City Hall commissioner.
  
  The final option is to reserve the entire city hall as your wedding venue, but you can only do this if your wedding is on a weekend or at night. Just remember to reserve the venue several months in advance. Keep in mind that City Hall is a government building, so that several legal requirements may be imposed on wedding vendors. Use a good wedding planning app to narrow down the list of reputable vendors.
  
  
• Choose the commissioner – Wedding commissioners are responsible for officiating the ceremony. Several different people can fulfill this duty, and each would have different styles and personalities of conducting weddings.
  
  
• Look for a good city hall wedding photographer – Look up skilled and professional photographers who have experience in covering San Francisco City Hall weddings using a wedding planner app.

Useful Tips in Finding the Best Limo Services in Chicago

Selecting the right wedding limo services in Chicago can be a difficult and stressful task. The vast number of companies and types of vehicles can become the selection process overwhelming, especially since you need the best and most reliable service provider in the city. The best way to go about your search is to do your homework and consider the following tips to finding and selecting the best limo service in Chicago:

 

• Search for highly recommended limo services in Chicago – There are wedding planning apps that come with a list of many different vendors to help you plan your wedding. Vendors include limo services in Chicago that offer different wedding packages. An app should help you narrow down your choices for the best limo companies in the city.
  
  
• Look up references and reviews – Google the company to find reviews and feedback about it from previous customers. This is a good way to learn more about the limo rental company and the quality of the vehicles and their services from the perspective of their clients, so you know what you can expect when you hire them.
  
  
• Determine the years of business – Experience is important, and the most successful limo services have that. Experienced limo companies in Chicago understand the complexities of coordinating your ride and travel time to prevent you from being late. In case you are going for a newer company, be sure that they have an experienced staff that can meet and understand your needs.
  
  
• Explore the fleet – Go over the types of vehicles that the company can offer. Most companies can offer stretch limos, party buses, shuttle buses, luxury town cars, and stretch SUVs. Be sure that the car can fit the number passengers you are planning to take with you.
  
  
• Check the availability – Make sure the company can provide a limo on your wedding day. Make arrangements in advance, and consider arranging a visit to their office to personally see the vehicles.