Tag: engagement rings
photo courtesy of people.com
I’m telling you what, friends, some of my fave celebutante’s have truly been keeping me on my toes! And this weekend proved to be no different when according to People.com, Carrie Underwood and (now!) hubs-tastic hockey man, Mike Fisher said *I do* on Saturday in front of 250 of their closest friends and family on a $500,000 budget! Check it out:
The Location. The setting proved to be a southern belle’s dream, as friends and family gathered at the Ritz-Carlton Reynolds Plantation in Greensboro, Georgia to watch as one of country music’s most sought after ladies made her “Mrs.” title offish. I mean, for serious, look at this dream…
Reynolds Plantation (Photo courtesy of ritzcarlton.com)
Golf Course at Reynolds Plantation (Photo courtesy of ritzcarlton.com)
The Dress. Dressed to the nines – as if there were any doubt – Carrie wore a Chantilly lace (got a “pretty face!”) dress designed by one of the wedding worlds finest, Monique Lhuillier… who also went ahead and whipped up the bridesmaids dresses as well. Can you say jealous? Honestly, look at some of the magic this woman has created:
Part of Monique Lhuillier's Spring 2010 Collection (photos courtesy of moniquelhuillier.com)
Don't you just love them!?! (photo courtesy of people.com)
The Guest List. As you can imagine, this was one star-studded event, which only further upsets me my invitation was obviously lost in the mail! Haha! With over 250 people attendance, there were undoubtedly wall to wall Staaaahhhhs, including all three of Underwood’s former Idol judges – Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul and Randy Jackson (DAWG!) – and country music’s favorite couple, Tim McGraw and Faith Hill! Love love love them!
The Ceremony. Carrie told People.com, “We could not feel more blessed to have found each other and to have shared this day with our friends and family that mean so much to us!” A day which was marked by a beautiful ceremony, filled with classical music and the couple’s ultra fave Bible versus. Awww :)
The Honeymoon. Get ready to swoon, lovers! According to USMagazine.com, this newlywed power couple is jet set and celebrating their nuptials in none other than beautiful Bora Bora! Siiiighhhhh. I wanna go! I wonder why they didn’t invite me?
photo courtesy of boncherry.com
July 12, 2010
As a regular among men’s magazine’s uber “hot” lists, it was only a matter of time before sultry starlet, Megan Fox was officially taken off the market. So continuing on my wedding-fueled celebrity gossip binge (that occurs on a regular basis… I know. I’m sick), I had to get my fix of Foxy’s wedding deets and share them with my fellow wedding (and celeb obsessed) enthusiasts!
The Location. You are just going to die when I say this. Fox and her hubby, Brian Austin Green exchanged vows on the sandy, sunset beaches…of Hawaii…at THE FOUR SEASONS! Can you say jeal-ous?
photo courtesy of fourseasons.com
photo courtesy of thinkfashion.com
The Flowers. Fox rocked an all-white bouquet composed of gardenias and roses. Hawt! Little known fact: gardenias are tropical flowers that signify romance and secret love…you really planned that one out, didn’t you Foxy?
The Dress. Ahh, the divalicious centerpiece of every wedding. According to reports, Fox’s good pal Giorgio Armani sent her a silky georgette strapless number that, of course, looked flawlessly fab. However, sources say that Fox did have some difficulty when it came to handling the 16 foot train. After a while of wrestling with the train, the free-spirited actress apparently just let it go to frolic through the sand. *Sigh.
photo courtesy of thinkfashion.com
The Ceremony. Conducted by a native Hawaiian officiant (wearing what appears to be a frighteningly short linen towel), the two were wed at sunset with Green’s son Kassius being the only witness. Green also donned a handsome, all-white Armani suit.
And there you have it, y pretty ladies in waitingm. I’m going to go quit my day job now and become a ridiculously hawt celebrity, because clearly it’s the business. And because a little Hawaii and Armani never hurt anybody.
July 9, 2010
photo courtesy of people.com
Shortly after Monday’s post - Who is Hollywood’s HOTTEST Bride-to-Be? – went live, I went home, turned on E! and discovered some news that struck me to my very core… Orlando Bloom, the man who was my screen saver for a good portion of my freshmen and sophomore years of college, is now officially off the market. <Siiiiiiiiiighhhhhhh> How could Legolas do this to me?? I thought I was supposed to be his Mrs. Greenleaf?!?!
**If you’re not a huge action / adventure / fantasy nerd like me, the reference to Legolas Greenleaf is in regards to Orlando’s character in the Lord of the Rings trilogy. Yep. Cool points, noted and awarded.
Anyhoot, as you might have already deduced, Orlando Bloom announced Monday that he joined the ranks of the newly engaged after popping the question to long time girlfriend, Miranda Kerr. I mean, come on! Let’s not get caught up in the minor details of me already being married, her already being a Victoria’s Secret starlet and the two of them already dating for 3 years, shall we?? And let’s focus on the more important facts…
Fact 1: I was this man’s (self proclaimed) biggest fan for years! Fact 2: I could quote all three LOTR’s from beginning to end, including additional footage, without hesitation. Fact 3: I sat through Elizabethtown, borderline the world’s worst romantic comedy, not once, but twice for his royal hottness and Fact 5: I would soooo work a wedding dress tenfold harder than any perfectly shaped, runway *Angel…
…
Okay, Fact 5 maaaaay be stretching it a bit, but that’s neither here nor there. What is here and there is the fact that yet another Hollywood hottie is tying the knot and breaking my heart. So, in conclusion, might I just say (and in a bit more realistic tone) that I wish them both the best of luck and many, MANY years of happiness!
Oh, and… I love you, Tanner. The “divorce’esque” talk was merely for show :) :) :)
June 23, 2010
Katy Perry says ooh la la! (photo courtesy of askmen.com)
It’s no secret that I love celebrity gossip. I border somewhere between overly excited and overtly obsessed. You think I give a care that E! is almost a constant background noise when I’m in charge of the remote… think again! Haha!
And even if you’re not quite as unhealthily in louvre with Hollywood hotties as I am, there is no denying there pull on the rest of the world. Recently, People.com did a post on some of Hollywood’s hottest ladies in waiting, but I’m already dyin’ to know who will be the most jaw dropping, knock down, drag out, over-the-top bride of the bunch!
Only time will tell, I suppose, but in the interim, you can be darn sure I will be bustin’ out my old school paper dolls, plastering on celebutante heads and jimmy riggin’ each one’s most illustrious ensembles! Hooty hoot! Can’t even wait for these weddings! Ladies, my address is still the same :)
Without further adieu, here is the People.com list of Hollywood brides-to-be:
Name: Carrie Underwood
Age: 27
Hubs-to-Be: Mike Fisher
photo courtesy of askmen.com
Name: America Ferrera
Age: 26
Hubs-to-Be: Ryan Piers Williams
photo courtesy of askmen.com
Name: KatyPerry
Age: 25
Hubs-to-Be: Russel Brand
photo courtesy of askmen.com
Name: Amy Adams
Age: 35
Hubs-to-Be: Darren Le Gallo
photo courtesy of askmen.com
Name: Anna Paquin
Age: 27
Hubs-to-Be: Stephen Moyer
photo courtesy of askmen.com
Name: Nicole Richie
Age: 28
Hubs-to-Be: Joel Madden
photo courtesy of askmen.com
Name: Hilary Duff
Age: 22
Hubs-to-Be: Mike Comrie
photo courtesy of askmen.com
Name: Emily Blunt
Age: 27
Hubs-to-Be: John Krasinski
photo courtesy of askmen.com
Name: Jenna Fischer
Age: 36
Hubs-to-Be: Lee Kirk
photo courtesy of askmen.com
Name: Kristen Bell
Age: 29
Hubs-to-Be: Dax Shepard
photo courtesy of askmen.com
Name: Penelope Cruz (maybe?)
Age: 36
Hubs-to-Be: Javier Bardem
photo courtesy of askmen.com
June 21, 2010
While our main focus in school was to bring home a report card full of A’s, it’s all about the C’s when it comes to choosing a girl’s best friend. Enter Stage Right: zee diamond!
Often imitated but never duplicated, every girl is capable of channeling her inner Marilyn and belting out that “a kiss on the hand may be quite continental,” but many don’t have the slightest idea why “diamond’s are a girl’s best friend” nor can they even begin to recognize what goes into distinguishing their worth…
But stick with me, ladies, while I slice through the Four C’s of the Diamond Kingdom - Cut, Color, Clarity and Carat – and educate you on how to find your perfect match… to go with your already perfect mate :)
Cut
photo courtesy of Tiffany & Co.
A diamond’s cut is perhaps the most recognizable “C” for the untrained eye to identify. Heck, even my Mister knew the difference between cuts, and he tends to stray away from all things girly in nature. For seriuos, the man still considers manks (man tanks) and gym shorts a fashion statement. Oy vey!
Because a diamond’s cut is distinguished by the facet proportions on its surface, most people have the ability to tell the difference from one cut to the next. It’s important to note, however, that while the cut directly correlates to the shape, it most honestly refers to the symmetry, portion and polish of the design guide it’s following.
According to Tiffany & Co., there is a sacrifice that comes when a stone is cut to maximize brilliance. In order to achieve the most brilliant cut possible, size is often lost in the transition. Therefore, it’s key to only purchase diamonds that are cut for brilliance and not size. This will ensure you’re getting the highest quality diamond possible.
*Please Note: Below is a chart showing the different shapes varying cuts can create, not the guidelines used to determine brilliance, but I consider it helpful nonetheless :)
photo courtesy of honeysquad.com
Color
You may find yourself asking: Color? What color does a ‘clear’ diamond have? And my response to you would be an emphatic: Exactly! In the case of most engagement and wedding bands, the diamond color should be treated under the theory of less is more. In order for diamonds to be considered perfect, they must be free and clear from any color whatsoever. Ideally, we’re looking for a face of total transparency, which as its name ensues, is incredibly hard to find.
RARELY does nature produce diamonds that are both chemically pure, as well as structurally perfect; so, many contain hints and tints of yellow. The color grade scale on which diamonds are rated (shown below) measures the saturation levels of yellow found in imperfect diamonds. The higher the saturation, the lower the grade. While this is generally undetectable to the naked eye, the color of a diamond can dramatically affect its price by hundreds, even thousands of dollars.
Therefore, this is the one most people “cheat” on when they’re willing to sacrifice quality for quantity.
*Please Note: In the case of some diamonds (ie. the Hope Diamond and those displayed in the Aurora Pyramid Collection), the intensity of color can add to a diamond’s value. Depending on the coloration, saturation and rarity of a diamond, the price can be significantly increased. Red diamonds are the rarest, and therefore, the most expensive.
- photo courtesy of lahra.com
Clarity
In the case of diamonds, clarity measures a stone’s level of flawlessness, which like skin, is best flaunted to the public imperfection and blemish free. Essentially all diamonds have some type of imperfection or inclusion – as their called in the diamond world; it’s just some are less noticeable than others.
In order for a diamond to be considered “flawless,” it can’t show any type of external imperfections under the power of 10x magnification, which is really, REALLY difficult to achieve! Thus, reflecting in a much higher price tag.
I mean honestly, think of your skin. Now, think of your skin in HD. Can we say “Yikes!” Heck, even Victoria’s Secret models show cellulite if the TV’s large enough and vision’s clear enough; so, before you write off Aphrodite as your diamond option… remember, somewhere slightly lower on the pay grade is a Giselle Bünchen. And that, my friends, ain’t so bad :)
photo courtesy of lahra.com
Carat
The final “C” is carat and lays weight to the famous question, “Does size matter?” The answer: Yes, yes it does :) The weight of each diamond is measured in carats and when compared to other diamonds of equal quality, the larger diamond will win every time. Despite popular belief, however, carat weight alone cannot determine the price of a diamond.
Unfortunately, since it’s what most people see first, many go to it as the main measurement in a diamond’s status. But I would urge you all not to do this! When choosing your diamond, always, always, always try follow the number one rule of thumb and choose QUALITY over QUANTITY.
photo courtesy of diamondexchange.com
But no matter what, just remember, “Square cut or pear shaped, these rocks don’t lose their shape! [Because] Diamonds are a girl’s best friend!” Boop, boop, be doop! Ooh!
March 31, 2010
The mood is just right, filled with flickering moments of intense excitement, well rehearsed preparation and unspoken anticipation. Love is in the air, perhaps now more than ever, with an unforgettable juxtaposition of palpitated eagerness and resounding patience. Then, it climaxes as he makes his way down to one knee and utters the same four worded question every girl longs to hear, “Will you marry me?” (Sigh) Proposals can pack a serious punch of romance. So when it comes to popping the question, atmosphere is key. Below are some of the best spots the world has to offer.
The Pont Neuf (Paris, France): Ay, me. Say amour. Paris, France: the city of lights, the city of love and most importantly the city of ahhhmazing proposals. An effervescent cheerleader for lovers everywhere, Paris is the epicenter for idyllic romance to unfold; so, there is no surprise that its iconic structures follow suit. Pont Neuf, ironically meaning “new bridge,” has now become the oldest bridge in France, making it a magical composition old world charm and new age love. Available at all hours and completely void of any expense to roam, this distinctive destination overlooks the Seine River and is most striking at sunset when the city takes on an amber glow.
Overlooking the Pitons (St. Lucia): Every girl yearns for a perfect proposal. After all, it will be the story she retells for over and over again to anyone who will listen – or at least until it is topped by the actual big day. Regardless, if a girl wants a ga-ga gorgeous proposal, her squeeze-to-be needn’t look any further than the ga-ga gorgeous Gros and Petit Pitons in St. Lucia. Creating a picturesque, back drop of serenity, these volcanic wonders skyrocket over 3,000 feet from the admirably saturated blue waters below. Definitely a more costly alternative, this proposal spot can feature everything from a helicopter ride to a dip in the therapeutic, Sulphur springs.
Hot-Air Balloon Ride over the Masai Mara (Kenya, Africa): Hands down, one of the most well known, well loved adventures to experience, the calming nature of a hot-air balloon ride is undeniable, and when it’s combined with the unmatched tranquility surrounding Africa’s Masai Mara, there is no question of its magic. Sure, it can be rather expensive to accomplish, but when the outcomes are priceless results, it’s impossible to compare.
A Sunset Sail in Bora Bora (Tahiti): Her timbers will surely shiver when you set sail at sunset in beautiful Bora Bora. The Le Meridien Bora Bora specializes in such proposals and can easily help any love sick pup make a perfect memory. The epitome of Polynesian perfection, these sunset sails have all the ingredients for one, outrageously quixotic “Will you marry me?” session: crystal clear waters, tropical breezes, sparkling champagne and lovers at sunset! Bora Bora truly does offer more-a more-a.
Central Park (New York, New York): Providing a beacon of hope for single gals everywhere, Central Park has been the Mecca for romantic comedies the world over. From Carrie and Big to Ross and Rachael, movie goers really connect with New York based love affairs, making Central Park a no brainer for proposal settings. Unlike most seemingly romantic spots, Central Park doesn’t have to be warm to be to be beautiful. It is just as magnificent – if not more so – when it’s cold… just one more perk to this already incredible park. And for a true man with a plan (and a little extra dough), the Per Se restaurant in NYC is ideal! Overlooking the entire park, this splurge worthy dinner for two needs to be booked at least two months in advance, but provides a nine-course menu as well as personal service to create a one of kind environment.
Vertigo Restaurant (Bangkok, Thailand): One of Thailand’s most appetizing treasures, the Vertigo Restaurant – part of the Banyan Tree Hotel – provides the utmost in exotic atmosphere, but its striking appeal is only the beginning. Where this killer of cuisine really dazzles is in its efforts to keep every proposal personal. The concierge will work with every Prince Charming to provide sentimental touches, such as her favorite flowers or top choice wine. Set 61 floors above the bustling city of Bangkok, this delectable dining experience makes a statement all on its own, but once it is accompanied by a man down on one knee, the results are nothing short of electric.
September 28, 2009
For whatever reason, whenever I start to get down, I always think of Julie Andrews in The Sound of Music. Over and over again, she’d smile and say, “Whenever the Lord closes a door, somewhere He opens a window.” Brilliant.
Because I like to stay on the “half full” side of life, I always find myself encouraging others to do the same. But I’m not so sure if I’d be able to stay positive if the Mister ever decided to get cold feet and pull a Mr. Big on me. Being left before the nuptials is one DON’T, I’ll gladly DO without.
So, one must wonder how Joshua Opperman – founder of IDoNowIDont.com – held it together long enough to create his online store. After the “supposed” love of his life up and left him and his $10,000 engagement ring, he was left heartbroken. And when he tried to return the barely worn trinket to the store, he was greeted exasperatedly with a big “poo poo” and “good day, sir.” Because the store would only offer him a fraction of his money back, he felt as though his heart was broken… again.
Instead of staying down, though, Josh decided to mend his broken heart by selling the gorgeous engagement ring to the highest bidder. Thus, an incredibly unique idea was born, which spurned an even more unique online phenomenon. Over the course of time, Josh turned his idea into a full blown online store, taking the notion of “one man’s trash is another man’s treasure” to a whole new level. Now, with added sections for all jewelry types as well as wedding dresses, it seems as though the slamming of love’s door has opened an abundance of windows for all those involved.
Future brides and grooms can cut costs and save hearts (and bank accounts) of their previously fallen comrades. Beautiful thing, isn’t it? So, if you’re looking to buy a big rock for little money, I suggest taking a gander. You just might find the deal of a lifetime, and breezily become one more hero who turned an epic tragedy into flawless victory. <Sigh> Happy endings are the best.
And what I really hope is… when the idea came to him, he belted out the loudest verse of, “THE HIIIIILLLSSS ARE ALIIIIIVE WITH THE SOUND OF MUUUUSIC!”?? Because – well – that would also be brilliant.
May 28, 2009
They say that love is the international language. So, here are a few wedding facts to celebrate the feeling known around the world:
- Instead of rice, peas are thrown at Czech newlyweds. (All I know is, people had best be throwing lightly. I’m not trying to dance the night away in a white dress covered in green stains… not good.)
- Historically, Danish men and women cross dressed in order to confuse evil spirits. (My cousin Kelly wanted to do this for a Halloween themed wedding… shortly thereafter, she was overruled… by everyone else helping her pay for the ceremony.)
- Most Moroccan women take a milk bath before their wedding day to purify themselves. (A good cleansing never hurt anyone… unless, in this case, you’re lactose intolerant.)
- One of history’s earliest engagement rings was given to Henry VIII’s daughter, Princess Mary, at the ripe old age of two. (I’ve heard of being prepared, but that may be playing it a little TOO safe.)
- The most expensive wedding ever was the marriage of Sheik Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum’s son to Princess Salama in Dubai in May of 1981. It cost a staggering $44 million. (Hmmm, right around my bridal budget :))
- In South Africa, the parents of both bride and groom traditionally carried fire from their hearths to light a new fire in the newlyweds’ hearth. (I think we’ll just stick with the unity candle.)
- Queen Victoria’s cake weighed an extraordinary 300 pounds. (Please refer to I Love Wedding Cake, But Seriously???)
- Stag parties were first held by ancient Spartan soldiers, who kissed their bachelor days goodbye with a raucous party. (Haha, figures. I mean did you see the movie 300??? Those men were all sorts of crazy!)
- Diamonds set in gold or silver became popular as betrothal rings among wealthy Venetians toward the end of the fifteenth century. (Thank goodness! I love me some bling!)
- A Finnish bride traditionally went door-to-door collecting gifts in a pillowcase, accompanied by an older married man who represented long marriage. (Seems like a lot of work, and Lord knows I’m not trying to strain myself :))
No matter what traditions your culture, religion or families may have, just remember that they all play second fiddle to the love that made it possible to showcase them in the first place. John Lennon said it best, “All You Need Is Love!”
May 22, 2009
Let it be known that I love love love Jennifer Hudson. One, the girl is nothing but class when it comes to being a survivor. Two, she’s got killer curves that go on for days, and three, the she can SANG like nobody’s business. That’s right, I said SANG. It’s actually the appropriate verb when a person can “sing” with unrealistic, super human abilities.
And just when I thought I couldn’t be more proud of the girl, Ms. Hudson up and “pops” the question to her beau-to-be, David Otunga over a delicious birthday dinner. Granted, he’d already asked her a couple months prior, but I dig that she got him his own 5 carat, beyond blingin’ engagement ring. It’s a fresh and different idea that I’m certain could catch on… ’cause Lord knows most celebrity trends do at some point or another. (Personally, I’m guilty of sporting the Rachel bob from Friends about two years too long… oops.)
But I’m still curious to know what everyone thinks of “man” engagement rings. Do you consider it a fashion do? Or a fashion don’t? If money weren’t an issue, could any of you see yourselves buying your man a pre-nuptial band? Or dare I even say, dropping down on one knee and asking, “Will you marry me?”
May 8, 2009
While every girl might have a plan in mind for how she hopes her engagement goes, I’ve always enjoyed the ones that don’t go to plan. Hence, why I delight in mine being filled with inexplicably bad hair, rain and some smelly, barnyard favorites.
The future Mr. and I had been together a little under 3 years, when he finally racked up the courage to pop the question. He reported after the fact, that he had ran through several scenarios before deciding to go for broke at our local Christmas at the Zoo. He figured between the snow, twinkling lights and holiday cheer, it would be perfect… perfect – obviously - being the operative word.
The night we had tickets, it was freezing cold, ultra sludgy and pouring down rain, which is always an amazing combo for my naturally frizz-nasty hair to shine. The minute we stepped out of the car, I went from perfectly quaffed to down right dump. My hair swelled to twice it’s normal size, and even though it was freezing, it still managed to take on tropical storm’esque ferver. As we flopped from display to display – 95% of which are outside – we became wetter, colder and smellier, until we finally reached Santa’s Workshop… <sweet sigh of relief>… an INDOOR Exhibit!.
The sweet sigh of relief, however, was quickley turned into frantic gasps for air, as we realized it was hotter than Blue Blazes inside Santa’s Workshop and couln’t get all out layers off fast enough to rebalance our internal thermometers. So, with incredibly unladylike fashion, I began to sweat… not glisten or glow or any other verb women try to use to make themselves feel better… I was full on dripping sweat. Both awesome and attractive.
Not only that, but like any woman with naturally curly hair knows… the damage done from humidity is down right inconceivable. So, just when i thought my hair souldnt’ get worse, it did. But, did I let this get me down? Nooooo. Instead, I began to embrace my new look as a homeless cave man and kept on trucking. As we left Santa’s Workshop to reemerge ourselves in the great outdoors, I noticed Tanner (my Mister!) started to talking in all kinds of sentimental tones.
Now, as a female, I realize it’s blasphemy to say this, but I’m actually not really good with all the super mushy speak. And apparently, neither is Santa’s Little Helper, because just as Tan Man really started to get onto a roll, he was rudely interrupted by the pungent smell coming from the reindeer one pin over… I mean, really? They should biohazzard that stuff.
Finally, as we neared the end and approached the exit, I noticed that Tanner wasn’t beside me any longer. Frantically, I tried to find him through a sea of massive curls and giant umbrellas, and when I finally locked eyes with him, I couldn’t help but cry. There, in front of a lit up Hot Dog Stand, soaking wet and down on one knee was my Tanner… in all his glory… asking me… in all my glory… to be his wife. It was my imperfect / perfect proposal and the best gift I ever received at Christmas.
I can’t even wait for the wedding and all the adventures I’ll get to have with you, Bunny :)
April 13, 2009
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