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With This Ring, I Thee Wed: Buying Wedding Rings

For many couples, choosing their wedding rings is an important part of their Dallas, Texas wedding. A symbol of love and unity, wedding rings are exchanged at some point during most wedding ceremonies. However, the types of wedding rings that you can buy in Dallas, Texas can be as varied as the couples who wear them.

When shopping for wedding rings in Dallas, Texas, you should take time to visit several different jewelers to get an idea of the options that are out here. Wedding rings in Dallas, Texas can come in a variety of materials, with or without stones, and may interlock with the bride’s engagement ring if desired.

There are several things to consider when finding your ideal wedding ring in Dallas, Texas. First is the metal that you choose to have your wedding ring designed in. Here are some of the most popular options:

• Gold – Gold is a popular choice for wedding rings. While most couples will choose to go with white or yellow gold, gold can actually come in a variety of colors, including pink/rose gold and green gold. Besides the color, you also have to consider the karat. 24-karat gold, which is pure, is too soft to use for jewelry. 14 and 18 karat gold are the most commonly used karats for wedding jewelry.
• Platinum – One of the rarest precious metals used in jewelry, it is also one of the heaviest and most enduring. A platinum wedding ring is designed to last forever, and it will show very little wear. The lustrous color of the metal compliments gemstones nicely, and it is considered the best protection you can get for a diamond. It also tends to be one of the most expensive types of wedding rings.
• Other options – two other popular choices for wedding rings in Dallas, Texas include tungsten and titanium. Tungsten is very hard and very dense, and offers a nearly scratch proof wedding ring. Titanium is also very hard yet very light, making it ideal for couples that have an active lifestyle. Both metals are more commonly used in modern-style wedding rings.

Once you have decided on the metal to create your perfect wedding band, there are still other options to consider. Wedding ring styles vary from traditional looks to modern styles, and you can find the perfect wedding ring in Dallas, Texas to suit your taste.

First, you will want to consider how you would like the band. Will you use one metal or a combination? Do you prefer a plain band or something engraved? Do you want a band that is designed to wear alone or linked with the engagement ring? A solid band or one made of filigree?

Another consideration is whether or not you will use gemstones in your wedding bands. While diamonds are the most commonly used stones in Dallas, Texas wedding rings, you can use any stone that holds special significance for you. Some couples choose to use their birth stones, the stone of a special anniversary, or even reset a stone from a treasured family heirloom. Your imagination is your only limit when deciding what will be best symbol of your eternal love!

A Perfect Proposal – All about the Ring

When you have found the perfect bride-to-be, it is time to start shopping for engagement rings in Dallas, Texas.  Here is a look at this small, yet incredibly important, piece of jewelry.

An engagement ring in Dallas, Texas is traditionally worn by the bride-to-be on her left-hand ring finger after she accepts a marriage proposal.  A gift from the groom-to-be, the engagement ring represents the couple’s intentions of getting married in the future.  Some women will also buy their groom-to-be a promise ring at the same time.

For some men, finding the perfect engagement ring in Dallas, Texas can be harder than finding the perfect bride.  Some prefer to choose the ring themselves as a surprise gift, while others involve their girlfriends in the decision in order to find the perfect ring.  There are several decisions to consider when choosing the ultimate engagement ring.

The Style of the Ring

First, you will want to consider the ring itself.  Engagement rings can come in a variety of metals, most commonly gold – either yellow or white – or platinum.  Some couples prefer a plain band with just a single stone setting, while others prefer multiple stones.  You can also look for sets that include both the engagement ring and the matching wedding band.  Many engagement ring stores in Dallas, Texas will offer a variety of choices, but you may also want to visit separate jewelers so you can see traditional versus modern settings and the variety of options that are out there.

The Cut of the Stone

Traditionally, the stone in most engagement rings is the diamond, since for many people a diamond represents eternity.  However, some couples may choose to use other stones with, or in place of, the diamond if they have more significance to the couple.  Even with diamonds, there is a limitless variety that you can choose from.  Some people will choose a single stone setting, while others prefer the look of multiple stones.  The stones themselves can vary significantly in shape, size, color, clarity, and price.

The Myriad of Setting Options

To facilitate buying engagement rings in Dallas, Texas, many jewelers offer a variety of options that you can choose from.  The easiest route to go is with a pre-set ring.  Basically, you walk into your jeweler of choice and choose what you want from the selection.  Many will have solitaires, settings with side stones, and engagement ring sets with matching bands to choose from.  If they do not have the size you need, there may be a wait time while the Dallas, Texas jeweler gets the engagement ring sized appropriately.

If you are looking for something that is a little more personal, you can choose to design your own engagement ring.  With most jewelers, you will go in and choose from a variety of settings.  You can then pick out the perfect stone and have it placed so that you have your own unique engagement ring.  Some jewelers may provide this service on site; thus, provided that they have the proper-sized setting and the ideal stones for your design idea, there will be only a minimal wait time.  Other places may require you to special order the ring from an offsite designer, which could entail an additional wait time.

Congratulations on your happy hunting for the perfect ring with which to say “I do!” 

Finding the Perfect Dress for your Wedding Day

Walking into a wedding dress store in Dallas, Texas can be quite an experience.  With row after row of satin, lace, and ribbons, the idea of shopping for a wedding gown can be quite overwhelming.  Here are some things to consider before going bridal dress shopping in Dallas, Texas to ensure you come out with the perfect dress for your big day. 

 
When to shop

Often, finding a bridal gown in Dallas, Texas is no quick matter, and it is important to allow yourself plenty of time.  Many of the brides-to-be will start gown shopping soon after becoming engaged and before making other wedding plans.  Keep in mind that if you are looking for something truly unique, then you will want to give extra time for ordering and alterations, ensuring that you have the look that you want.

 
Picture the perfect dress first

You can significantly cut down on the amount of time you spend at the Dallas, Texas wedding gown boutique if you go in with a basic idea of what you want.  Do you want white or something colored?  Do you want a long flowing train or a shorter skirt?  Do you want sleeves?  Do you prefer a limited decorations or to go all out with sequins and lace?  Consider going through a few catalogs or fashion magazines to see some of the options available, as well as this season’s bridal trends.  This will help you better direct your salesperson in finding ideal dresses for you to try on.

 
Sleeves – the long and short of it

Since Dallas is warmer most of the year, a good option to go with is a strapless or sleeveless bridal gown.  Dallas, Texas winters can still be cold, however, so a sleeved dress is still an option for a winter wedding.  Or consider going sleeveless, since most of your ceremony will be indoors anyways, and get a coordinating wrap, jacket, or gloves to complete your look and keep you warm.

The rainbow of white colors

White may be the traditional color for a bridal dress in Dallas, Texas, but not everyone looks good in this color.  If white is not your color, you can go with a champagne, gold, or ivory gown.  Another option is to choose one of the popular new styles that feature a flash of color in the sash, embroidery, or trim.  You can even coordinate the colors of your gown with the rest of your bridal party.

Choosing a complimentary veil

While shopping for a wedding gown in Dallas, Texas, you may also want to consider purchasing a veil if you have decided to wear one.  Different styles and lengths can compliment different styles of dresses, so you will want to try them on together to get the full effect.  Many brides compliment their wedding gowns in Dallas, Texas with veils, but some brides are switching to modern tiaras or flowers instead. 

Think about your hairdo

Different hairstyles work better with different bridal gown necklines.  If you imagine wearing your hair up, look for a gown with a spectacular neckline and bodice that will be highlighted by your hairdo.  If you are picturing your hair down, then you may want to find a dress that has beautiful details along the hem and train, instead of business along the bust line. 

Every detail matters – especially the undergarments

Often, your undergarments can make or break your gown.  There are a variety of shape-enhancing bras and slips that can be used to enhance your shape and improve the look of the gown.  Many Dallas, Texas bridal boutiques will offer these items as well so that you can make sure that your undergarments work with the dress.  There is nothing less distracting than bulges or loose straps – be sure to check the intimate details for your perfect wedding ensemble. 

Bustles with ease

If your dream wedding gown includes a long train, and your reception includes a night filled with dancing, the two might not work so well together.  Consider a variety of different bustle options that will allow you to shorten your train for after the ceremony so that you can move around with ease.

Your wedding dress should be a beautiful extension of your style and personality!  When you stay true to what you love – along with what looks great on you – then you will be a shining star down the walkway on your big day. 

Photoshoot Secrets Revealed: Achieving Perfect Wedding Photography

For many couples, their wedding day is the happiest day of their lives. Full of magic, beauty, happiness, and romance, there are so many aspects that beg to be remembered. Because of this, many couples in Dallas, Texas look for a wedding photographer to help them capture every special moment.

Wedding photography in Dallas, Texas presents its own unique challenges. Whether you are getting married in a church or outdoors, in the winter or in the summer, it is helpful to have a wedding photographer from the Dallas, Texas area. This will ensure your photographer will be familiar with the distinctive possibilities for your Dallas, Texas wedding.

Style is more important than business

Choosing a wedding photographer in Dallas, Texas is not as simple as pulling out your wallet, however. For many couples, indeed it is the style that they see first, especially when it comes to wedding photography. And depending on the feel of the wedding or the tastes of the couple, one photographer may be better suited in style than other.

When choosing a wedding photographer in Dallas, Texas, you want to focus on the style of the photographer first. While the details of contracts and pricing are also a consideration, you should make sure that you have found the ideal wedding photographer for your style. It is more important that you love the pictures you ultimately decide to purchase.

Keep your photographer’s needs in mind

For many photographers, wedding photography in Dallas, Texas can be an all day affair, and the bride and groom should keep this in mind. Not only should you arrange everything well in advance, but you should also consider the needs of the wedding photographer and/or assistants throughout the day. If you want the photographer available for every single moment of the day, for example, you will want to arrange for them to eat as well – ensuring they do not have to go off site to eat and miss photo opportunities of precious moments.

Allow your photographer creative license

Couples should also be aware that wedding photography in Dallas, Texas does not need to be directed. If you have done your homework and hired a professional wedding photographer, he or she will already know what and how to photograph the different aspects of your wedding. Allow your wedding photographer to approach the wedding with their creative eye, and if you have any “must have” shots that you want, let them know ahead of time so that they can watch out for those moments.

Coordinate the photographer with other vendors

If you want wedding photography in Dallas, Texas that is natural, there is nothing more frustrating for the photographer to have everyone pose the moment that they come into the room. It can also be frustrating if you have a videographer and photographer that have totally opposing styles. You can help ensure that everything goes smoothly by coordinating the different vendors together so that they have a common understanding of what everyone is trying to accomplish.

Live in the moment

The most important thing about wedding photography in Dallas, Texas is to live in the moment.  If you spend too much time worrying about whether your hair is just right, the ring bearer’s tie is on straight, and every single shot is magazine-cover worthy, then you will miss a lot of the magic of the moment.  Trust your photographer to find those “picture perfect” moments.  Lastly, keep in mind that it is impossible to plan for every photo opportunity.  You may think a picture of the bride and the flower girl sounds too cute for words before the big day, only to have the flower girl burst into tears moment before the photos because she is not allowed a second slice of cake.  The more you are able to live in the moment, the more natural, and beautiful, your wedding photos will be.

Great Chef

Check out Andrew Ormsby for parties. He served up some wonderful things at a wedding I was at outside of Dallas.

Hollywood Secrets: Becoming the Beautiful Bride with Hair and Make-up Artists

Have you ever wondered why Hollywood stars always look perfect and stunning? Neither a hair is loose nor a blemish present in their pictures. However, stunning beauty both in person and in photographs is not reserved for the red carpet goers alone.

If you want to look like a star in your wedding day, you simply need to utilize Hollywood beauty secrets – and your gorgeous appearance will shine through your special day and in all of the photographs that will capture your beauty forever.

Every Hollywood starlet enlists the help of professional make-up artists and hair stylists to make them stunning. Thus, many brides turn to wedding hair and makeup stylists in Dallas, Texas to achieve a starlet, stunning look. Here are some insider tips to helping you look your best on the big day.

Maximizing your style

Every Hollywood star knows exactly what looks good on her – or else she ends up in the tabloids or the “do not wear” list. Thus, for every bride, it is important to understand yourself – and what looks good on you. For example, if your face shape is naturally round, then ringlets that end at the chin are not the most flattering. Instead, you want a hair style that will elongate your face, along with make-up tricks that will slim your cheeks.

You want your wedding makeup to reflect your personality, and your Dallas, Texas wedding makeup artist should take this into consideration. For instance, if you normally do not wear a lot of makeup, you may prefer a more natural look. Or, you might want to use the hottest makeup trends so that you can rival any Hollywood starlet. Remember, it is important to stay true to who you are – and there are always make-up tricks that can achieve the perfect look for you.

Getting a consultation

Hollywood stars always have dozens of “trials” before any red carpet hand. However, for most brides, their wedding day will be the first time that they ever have had their hair and makeup professionally done.

Having a consultation with your Dallas, Texas wedding hair stylist and makeup artists can give you a chance to experiment with different looks. The consultant will help you decide which looks will best compliment your face, dress, and accessories. It is helpful if you take in some pictures of styles that you like to give your stylist a sense of direction, and do not be afraid to speak up about looks that you hate and those that you love. This ensures that you get the best look that compliments your style, dress, and face shape.

Making sure your look lasts

Your wedding makeup artist in Dallas, Texas should be familiar with the weather and the types of makeup that will work with your skin type and the conditions. Make sure he or she knows if your wedding will be indoors or outdoors. The consultation is a good time to try different brands and styles to see what will work for you. However, there are some tips that you can use to make sure you stay looking gorgeous once you leave the wedding makeup consultant’s office.

• Use lip balm to avoid dry lips before the wedding, but do not apply it within an hour of having your makeup done.
• Avoid harsh cleansers on your skin, which can make it oily or cause it to breakout.
• Make your final selections of makeup types at least a month ahead of time to avoid reactions.
• Do not get a facial immediately before the wedding. Have your last facial one week to one month ahead of time depending on how frequently you normally get them done.
• Apply moisturizer 20 minutes before your makeup.
• Always test drive your makeup. Mist your face with water to simulate tears and/or swear to make sure that it will stay on throughout the ceremony. Eat at least one meal to make sure that it will last throughout your reception.

Finishing your look with hairstyles

Like your wedding makeup artist, you should visit your wedding hair stylist in Dallas, Texas beforehand as well. Certain hairstyles will work better with long or short cuts and with straight or curly hair. Make sure that your wedding hair stylist knows what accessories you are planning on using, such as jeweled hairpins or flowers, and if you plan on wearing a veil. The type of dress you have picked out will also be a consideration, since some dresses will be complimented by certain styles.

Your style and your wedding

Once again, you may want to run through several styles to see what appeals to you. Taking in pictures of styles you like can help your Dallas, Texas wedding hair stylist choose looks that appeal to you. Up-dos are often more appropriate for a formal wedding, while longer styles can be used in a more casual setting. Time of day and location will also play a factor – if you are planning on an outdoor wedding on a breezy afternoon you will want something that looks great all day.

As part of your consultation with your Dallas, Texas wedding hair stylist and makeup artist, you may consider pampering yourself with some popular beauty treatments. Facials can help your skin shine, while gloss hair treatments help your hair to look its best. Manicures and pedicures will help keep your nails looking their best, while massages can help you relax and rest so that you look refreshed on your big day – ensuring that you shine as brightly as any Hollywood starlet!

StrictlyWeddings.com/New York

StrictlyWeddings.Com will also be coming to New York early fall 2008.  Stay tuned!

Top Spot

The top place to get your hair done is Studio One Ten off of Travis St. The hairdressers are very professional, and Tori can make it happen, but the staff there are all great.

They also do large wedding parties for all of the bridal gals, as well as makeup. Cathy, one of the make-up artist, is one of the best in Dallas.

The Mansion on Turtle Creek/Dallas

I stayed here on the night of my wedding, and it was so wonderful and the service was everything I had heard it would be. We did not want to leave, but we had to jet off on our Honeymoon in Florence the next day.

Diamonds

Anschar Diamonds is the best! They are the nicest people. Brenda Kaunch is so helpful there, and they have the most beautiful things.

I would have them design a ring for me, without a doubt. Quality-Quality and customer service is outstanding! They also have a great selection of wedding bands for men and women that are fab, as well!