The Engagement Ring
Ring designers clued us in to the hottest new engagement ring styles. A simple solitaire may be a classic (and safe) choice, but you're sure to please with these over-the-top dazzlers.
Trend #1: Colored Gems
Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck's relationship might not have lasted, but the lure of colored engagement rings sure did. Her 6.1-carat pink diamond engagement ring set the stage for a bevy of other colorful gemstones like beryl, sapphires, and rubies to take a leading role.
Trend #3: Intricately Raised Settings
The newest ring settings are really raising the bar -- elaborate and (more important) lofty designs are hot. There's nothing like a delicately draped bow or precision-cut mold to give your center stone the spotlight.
Trend #5: Vintage Glamour
Who said traditional wear cannot be stylish?
These time-tested designs have stood their ground & here they are even more stunning.
Heirloom styles, though rich in history, are definitely not a tired idea. Think intricate settings with metal and diamond detailing.
Slip some yesteryear glamour on your finger with these beautiful vintage detailed styles.
A la-jodha akbar way !
Trend #2: Diamonds All Around
A gorgeous diamond gets lots of character from its surroundings. And these current styles drizzled with diamonds are definitely a hit among brides and designers alike. Not only do the extra diamonds add tons of sparkle, but they can enhance the size or at least give the illusion of a larger center stone.Aishwarya doesn't want to stop flaunting her moonstone centered piece with diamonds all around & why should she ?
Trend #4: Twisted Bands
A twist here & a turn there-that's just what a roller coaster ride is but so is your wedded life.Designers have opted to put a little more swing in their rings. From swirling diamond bands to more streamlined metal twists,be enamored with this smooth move.The ideal ring for a couple who would go through the twists n turns of a journey together !
Trend #6: Eco-friendly Rings
If you are a naturalist n swear by protecting the environ you live in then but you also are a fashion diva then here's good news for you.These dazzling designers prove that it's hip to have more than just a green thumb. Decorate your ring finger with conflict-free diamonds and recycled gold settings.
Engagement Parties:
The purpose of an engagement gala -- usually scheduled no later than three months after the big announcement -- can be threefold: to share the new of the couples' imminent union with future wedding guests, to introduce the families to each other, and to celebrate the impending, well, celebration.
Tradition has it that the bride's parents host the initial gathering, but the groom's parents can then throw their own party, or both sets can come together to host the fete.
As you decide, here are five things the hosts should keep in mind:
1) Give the Couple Time to Breathe - An impromptu family gathering the weekend after he proposed is the perfect opportunity to break out the vintage champagne, but don't schedule an all-out opulent affair during the engagement's first month. The couple needs some time to revel in just being engaged. Plan to host an engagement party two to four months after he popped the question.That gives the couple a chance to envision their eventual wedding-a crucial element to consider when deciding on the type of event.
2)Consider your Guest List Do's n Don'ts - Everyone who is invited to the engagement party should ultimately be invited to the wedding. Otherwise, guests might wonder what they did at the engagement party to insult you! That said, if the couple decides to host their own wedding and keep the list small and you want to throw an extravagant engagement party, go for it. Just be sure to let people know that the wedding will be small so no feelings will be hurt when guests aren't invited to the wedding. If you are worried that your friends will think you want to have a big bash solely to garner gifts, include a nice note in the invitation that requests no presents.
3)Consider what will make the in-laws most comfortable - Since the engagement party custom was actually designed to help you start building bridges between the families, consider their style. If they are a very formal family, an impromptu picnic in the park might not be the most appropriate setting for getting to know one another. Likewise, a 5-course sit-down dinner attended by all your friends might be a bit intimidating for them. Settle nerves by including as many people from their side as you can reasonably accommodate.
4)Suggest That the Couple Register Beforehand - While traditionally guests have not brought presents to this function, increasing numbers do today, and it's only fair to provide guidance. Remind the couple to register for gifts in the low to middle range-an expensive cappuccino maker is not your typical engagement present. If some guests arrive bearing gifts, just be sure the couple unwraps them after the party or away from the crowd so people who came empty-handed won't feel uncomfortable.
5)Remind Yourself That There is Still a Wedding to Throw - Every host wants to plan an unforgettable affair, but you never want to upstage the main event. Try to create a different mood for the engagement party while maintaining your own style. You won't want to force a casual cookout if you (and your guests) favor formal parties, and vice-versa. But if your guests are up to it, set apart a black-tie affair with a sit-on-the-floor, buffet-style engagement bash; preview a semi formal daytime wedding with a swanky cocktail party, ties optional; or balance a destination wedding with a home-cooked dinner party.
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