Tag: gemstone

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Do’s and Don’ts for beach-bound brides

You are one lucky lady if your nuptials are to be at a beach. Whether it is at a faraway exotic locale or a tropical beach closer to home, this is easily one of the best wedding venues there is. Romance permeates the air, as nature forms a beautiful canvas for your wedding. Your guests will enjoy the holiday experience, even as they frolic and have fun in the sand and sea.

Nonetheless, planning a beach wedding has its own set of challenges. You have to account for various factors that are not present in other venues. The warm and humid environment can cause a fair share of makeup, hair and dress issues for beach brides. Fortunately, you can look gorgeous and plan a successful wedding day with a few helpful tips.

Here is our list of Do’s and Don’ts for the different things you should keep in mind when you are a beach-bound bride.

DO consider the weather at the time of your wedding

The weather at a beach isn’t warm and humid all-year around. Beach weather can also be dry, windy, with showers at various times of the year. Depending on the destination you pick, it is a good idea to do some research on the weather that will be present at the time of your wedding. If the beach will be windy, adjust your outfit, makeup and hairstyle to suit the weather. Consider accessorizing with a stole, wrap or jacket if it gets too cold. Also pick a hairstyle that keeps hair away from your face, and the wind won’t be a problem.

DON’T forget to choose the right fabric

Traditional wedding dress fabrics like organza and silk aren’t the best choices for beach weddings. They can weigh you down, show sweat and become shabby in the sand at a beach. So, it is wise to stay away from these types of fabrics. Instead, choose light and airy fabrics like chiffon for your wedding dress. These blend in beautifully with the setting, are comfortable to wear and convenient to carry. Other fabrics to consider are voile, organza and tulle. For more information on wedding dress fabrics, take a look at this article on the Brides website. Also make sure that the fabric doesn’t wrinkle easily. Your dress will be put through a lot of wear and tear. So, avoid fabrics like cotton and linen that wrinkle easily.

DO pick the right silhouette

The dress silhouette you choose has a huge impact on your overall bridal look. The right silhouette will flatter your best features and help you look gorgeous. When your wedding is at the beach, don’t let the location limit your choices. If you start your search early, you will have time to find a dress that looks great on you while being right for the beach. So, start by identifying the best silhouettes for your body type. Then find a dress that fits the bill. For help on identifying the best wedding dress silhouettes for your body type, visit this article on the Huff Post website. 

DON’T overlook the importance of picking the right white

One of the biggest advantages of an outdoor venue is that your photographer can make the most of natural lighting. This is a wonderful thing. However, it also means that your dress may look different in this light from how you would expect it to look in artificial lighting. Consider this aspect when choosing the shade of white. Eliminate any likely issues by simply ensuring that the dress looks good in natural light, prior to the purchase. Make sure that you pick the right white for your complexion, so it flatters your skin tone. Here is some information on this subject at the Knot website, that may come in handy. 

DO keep the skirt simple

Trust me when I say that it is no fun walking around in a dress that drags in the sand. Intricate details in the hemline and train can easily attract dirt and have sand stuck to it. This can be difficult to clean afterwards. So, keep the skirt of your dress simple and avoid such problems. It will be easier to move around in a light, airy skirt. Additionally, it will also look fresh and clean throughout the day, when the skirt of your dress is simple. If you must have an embellished wedding gown, choose a dress with details in the bodice and waistline for best results.

DON’T forget to look out for the sun

Since your wedding is in the outdoors, it is natural that you will spend hours in the sun. So don’t forget to protect yourself well. Use adequate amount of a broad spectrum sunscreen on all exposed parts of your body, to stay sun-safe. Pick makeup with sun protection for best results. Also account for the effect of the sun when you choose the colors of your makeup. The natural light will emphasize pinks and corals. So, pick them judiciously to sport a natural look. It is best to keep the makeup light, and just emphasize your features for the best result.

DON’T forget about issues associated with transporting your dress

Unless your venue is near to where you stay, you will have to travel with your wedding dress. It isn’t easy to transport a gown that is heavy, has intricate embellishments or is prone to wrinkling. Such factors can damage your dress. So, pick a dress that travels well and you can eliminate likely issues. We suggest that you choose from collections that are specifically tailored for destination weddings. Such gowns will be easy to pack, transport and restore to original condition with minimum effort once you reach the destination.

DON’T overlook the importance of your accessories

 

Most beach brides opt for simple wedding dresses for their beach weddings. However, this doesn’t mean they have to compromise on their bridal look because of the simplicity of the dress. The right choice of accessories will help you look gorgeous. Pick colored gemstone jewelry for a pop of color. Or indulge in extra bling to sparkle on your special day. The best part of choosing jewelry with sparkling stones is that they reflect the natural light and look stunning in the venue you chose. You can also go with pearl, coral or rustic natural stones for an earthy vibe.

DO use waterproof makeup

Waterproof makeup is an absolute must for your beach wedding. It will stay on despite the heat and keep your look fresh. Although you will have to touch-up your makeup at regular intervals throughout the day, waterproof makeup reduces the frequency of this task. It is very important to use waterproof eyeliner, mascara and eye shadow. This will help your eye makeup stay on, even if you shed copious tears of joy. Choose colors like brown, navy and olive instead of black in your eye colors, for a sun-kissed effect.

DO remember that humidity will affect your locks

Hair and humidity don’t always go together. Beaches have high humidity levels, and this can affect how frizzy your hair becomes. Keep this factor in mind when you plan your wedding day hairstyle. If your hair tends to frizz up when the air is moist, keep your hairstyle simple and collected. This will help you look fresh throughout the day. If your tresses aren’t affected by humid environments, feel free to choose any hairstyle that you desire. Avoid too many styling products that will weigh your hair down, as these can ruin your look. A sleek and polished hairstyle may also look out of place in the cool, relaxed environment of a beach. Consider these factors when choosing your hairdo for the day.

DON’T pick the wrong footwear

The uneven nature of the sand and turf at a beach make heels totally unsuitable for the occasion. Even if you have a wooden or cemented walkway for the ceremony, you will be walking in the sand at some time of the day. So, ditch the heels and go barefoot. Adorn your feet with the choicest accessories, like anklets, to dress your feet in style. Or step up your style with bridal flip flops or stylish sandals customized for the occasion.

DON’T overdo the tan

Sun-kissed brides look wonderful. Nonetheless, tan with caution. It is easy to go overboard and this can ruin all your makeup plans. Fake tanning lotions and spray-on tans are a big mistake when your wedding is at the beach. These take on a garish orange hue in pictures, and can make you look funny. So, if you must tan, do it in the safe and recommended way. Build up the faux glow by using the right products and obtaining the color gradually. For a detailed account of the ideal options to consider when your wedding is around the corner, visit this article on the Knot website. 

DO remember to stay hydrated

The salty air in the beach environment can affect your skin texture. So moisturize well before you set out for the beach. It is equally important to stay hydrated on the inside too. Refresh yourself by sipping on water and other liquids throughout your stay at the venue. This will keep your skin looking fresh and compensate for the loss of moisture in the salty environment. If you have oily skin, it is likely that you will find it excessively oily in the natural environment. Make use of the blotting paper in your emergency kit to avoid this. More on what you should pack into this day-of emergency kit is available in this previous post.

DO choose the right flowers

If flowers are a priority in your décor, make sure you pick the right blooms. Unlike other venues, the beach environment doesn’t favor all flowers. You will have to consider the heat and direct sunlight that will affect their life span. Discard the idea of any thin, fragile flowers that wilt quickly. You need hardy blossoms that hold their shape and last fresh for longer. Good choices are orchids and chrysanthemums. Incorporate flowers that can tolerate the environmental condition into your décor and accessories. The other option is to go for artificial flowers made from fabric or paper.

DON’T skip a beautiful head accessory

Your hairstyle and headpiece are the crowning glory of your bridal look. In your attempt to look cool and casual, don’t overlook the importance of picking the right hair accessories to complete your look. Whether it is a nature inspired floral crown, a glittering tiara or a simple head band, make sure you explore your options and pick the one that is right for your setting. And if you love veils, don’t hesitate to wear one for your wedding day. The ideal veil for this setting is one with with a lace trim. The trim will add weight to the veil and help it stay in place, even when the weather is windy.

Although planning a wedding on the beach can seem like a lot of work, it is beautiful when you do it right. Just think of how apt the symbolism of nature is to your marriage. As the sun and the ocean join each other in blissful harmony at your beautiful venue, so do you and your partner come together to celebrate life as husband and wife.

Best for Bride is the perfect place to find your dream dress for a romantic beach wedding. From lightweight chiffon gowns to airy voile dresses and sexy mermaid gowns, we have a vast array of options for you to choose from. Visit us in-store or head over to our online gallery today to see what you love. And book your appointment today, so we can help you choose the dress of your dreams.

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Bridal jewelry suggestions for different fashion styles

Once you choose your wedding dress, you are only half-done with dressing up for your wedding day. You still have to choose your hairstyle, makeup and most importantly, the accessories to bring together your overall look.

Just like there are thousands of options in wedding dresses, there are plenty of choices in wedding jewelry too. Finding the right balance in size, structure and impact created by the chosen accessories, is important to fashioning your overall wedding day look. Neither should you go overboard with accessories that it competes with your wedding dress, nor should it be too simple that it doesn’t help you to stand out as a bride.

Here are some tips to keep in mind when choosing your wedding day jewelry.

  • Buy your wedding dress first: We always recommend buying your wedding dress first and then choosing matching accessories, as it is easier to do things in this order. The only exception is if you will be wearing heirloom jewelry or have already spent a fortune on jewelry that will be the signature element in creating your look.
  • Find the right balance: If your wedding dress is simple, choose statement jewelry that enhances your overall look. On the other hand, if you have chosen a richly embellished wedding dress with plenty of detail, opt for simple jewelry so your overall look isn’t cluttered.
  • Choose jewelry that suits your features: Always try on jewelry before you buy it, so you can make sure that it complements your facial features. Certain styles look better than others on different face shapes. So, make sure that the accessories you choose highlights your most attractive features.

Now you know what you should be looking for, when choosing your wedding jewelry.

With more and more brides preferring themed weddings, it is necessary to find jewelry that will contribute to the style they sport on their wedding day. Let us take a look at some inspiring wedding jewelry ideas for the most popular wedding themes we find these days.

1.Boho

This style is non-traditional, bold and vibrant. It is colorful, wild and has an unconventional edge that is both endearing and unusual, and is significantly different from anything traditional. When you are a Boho bride, your wedding dress will usually be dramatic enough. It isn’t necessary to find matching accessories for your wedding dress, as this style allows you to mix and play with entirely different styles to create your own signature look. Here are some ideas.

  • Instantly add style to your look with a unique headpiece that screams out your style statement. Feathers, flower crowns, oversize beaded head pieces and colorful headbands are all suitable for this style.
Image Credits: Faylyne, via Flickr
Image Credits: Faylyne, via Flickr
  • A colorful necklace with a lot of texture, like fabric strips, beads and stones, is a must-have. This will not only add color, it will also be a unique piece.

necklace

  • Prints and patterns appeal to Boho brides immensely, and there are many ways to add these to your ensemble. Consider wearing a earrings with colorful prints to instantly add a pop of color to your face.

earring

  • Unexpected pieces of jewelry like toe rings, anklets or other foot jewelry are an amazing way to make a statement, especially if your wedding dress just skims your ankles and exposes your dainty feet.

anklet

Classic

The name says it all—the classic bride prefers timeless trends that never go out of fashion. There is a refined sophistication to this style, and these brides usually have an affinity for pearls and diamonds in simple but stunning designs. Classic wedding dresses feature traditional silhouettes like ball gowns or A-line dresses, with or without sleeves. The makeup is usually quite simple, and the hair is done in simple styles like chignons, buns or simply let down. Here are the jewelry choices that complement this style.

  • The choice of necklace depends on the neckline of the gown. If the dress features an embellished or high neckline, the necklace can be eliminated. If not, these brides usually prefer a string of pearls or a simple necklace with a stone studded pendant. If the bride opts for color, this can be achieved with gemstones like emeralds, rubies or sapphires.
  • While some brides choose large studs and dangling earrings decorated with pearls or stones, others prefer to keep it simple with a single stone stud. Basically, aim to strike the right balance between the earring size and necklace. If the necklace is elaborate, it is best to avoid earrings or stick to simpler ones.

  • Hair accessories like little brooches, scintillating classy headbands or pretty beaded headpieces can be used to dress up your hair in a sophisticated way, especially if you aren’t using much jewelry in the rest of your outfit.

Vintage

Each vintage era has its distinct characteristics, and your jewelry should go well with the era that has inspired your wedding plans. If you are just aiming for an old-fashioned vibe, there are common elements like lace and pearls that suit almost all the styles. Let us take a look at some samples of what accessories would be suitable for a vintage style wedding dress.

  • Pearls and stones are a must-have, and the more elaborate the necklace, better it will match the vintage theme. Strings of pearls, like those featured in this picture, will bring the vintage effect alive in your outfit. If you want more drama, club different sized strings of pearls to come up with your own stylish interpretation of a vintage piece. Else search through your mother or grandmother’s jewelry collection to pick out necklaces that were trendy in their days.

  • Finish off your vintage hair up-do with a vivid headpiece with enough sparkle to make a statement. Whether you choose to place it around your crown, above your bun or as a string on just one side, it is bound to add that finishing touch to the perfect hairstyle.

  • Add a touch of vintage glam to your face with the help of oversize shiny loops in your ear. The more jazzy they look with shiny stones, the better it will be. With a pair as magnificent as in this picture, you can even skip a necklace, as they are absolute showstoppers.

Beach style

There are many brides who would have it no other way, than have their nuptials at the beach. Since these weddings are casual, fun and full of the essence of the sand and sea, their dress and accessories should reflect this tone too. While the wedding dress itself should best feature soft, lightweight, breezy fabric, the jewelry can be loud, with plenty of inspiration drawn from the frolicking waves and blue skies that characterize every beach location. Here are a few ideas.

  • Start with a nautical inspired headband. Here is one with starfish and flowers as blue as the ocean. The best part is that it weaves into the hair seamlessly, so it looks like it is a part of the hairdo. Could it get any better than this?
Image Credits: Faylyne, via Flickr
  • Pearl earrings and studs are perfect for a beach wedding, as these are associated with the ocean. However, if you want a casual look, go with colorful options like corals or shells in your jewelry, and it will look great. These dangling coral earrings are simply perfect to dress up your white attire with a little pop of color, and it is just apt for a beach wedding.
Image Credits: Naomi King, via Flickr
Image Credits: Naomi King, via Flickr
  • To go with your coral earrings, get an equally attractive coral necklace. The bright pop of pinkish orange will instantly color your wedding outfit and make you look like a sea princess, all set to be wed where surf meets turf. This coral necklace has a darker tone, and is perfectly complemented by the blue turquoise beads. The silver pendant adds a vintage touch and gives it a beautiful personality.
Image Credits: Wayne Noffsinger, via Flickr
Image Credits: Wayne Noffsinger, via Flickr
  • If there is one wedding where foot jewelry doesn’t look out of place, it has to be a beach wedding. Dress up your pretty feet with beautiful accessories, as you will be trotting through the sand and they will highlight your beautiful feet.
Image Credits: Alex Lupo, via Flickr
Image Credits: Alex Lupo, via Flickr

Glamorous

When we think of glamorous, the image that immediately comes to mind is plenty of glitter, sexy outfits and large signature style jewelry. When you choose a dress that has all the elements that make it captivating, you can wear just minimum jewelry to complement it. Take care to not overdo the jewelry, or you can end up looking over-the-top and cluttered. Here are some jewelry options to add a touch of glamour to your wedding day look.

  • If your wedding dress has a strapless neckline, bring on the bling with a loud and bright necklace. Gold is the ideal metal to use, as it instantly adds more glamour to your look. If not, opt for sparkles with gems in your necklace. Consider big motifs and large pendants for a striking finish. If you have a color theme for your wedding, don’t hesitate to consider a necklace with colored gems for that unique touch.

  • If an eye-catching necklace doesn’t appeal to you, choose big, bold earrings instead. If you wear your hair in an up do, draw focus to your face with dangling earrings. Instead, if you leave your hair down, a big stud is a better option as it will not get lost within your tresses. Remember to stick to only one statement piece of jewelry; either the earring or a necklace. If you will be wearing both, keep them small, so you don’t look like you belong in a costume parade.

  • Go bold with a big headpiece if you want to look really glamorous. We think it is most effective when hair pieces are placed on the side of the crown, instead of at the center. If you really want to look glamorous, you can wear a tiara. After all, it isn’t everyday that you can dress up like a princess, and get away with it.
  • Don’t forget that your fingers and arms can also revel in some extra attention. Consider adding a bright, brilliant bracelet to your ensemble, especially if your dress is strapless and you will be showing off your arms. If not a bracelet, then you should consider a big, statement ring for one of your fingers, that will pop with sparkle. Don’t forget to ask your photographer to spare some extra attention to pictures with your bouquets, and your fingers will get all the glory they deserve.

bracelet

Finding the jewelry to match your outfit is a critical part of completing your bridal look. With these tips, it should be possible for you to get a start and identify what would suit your style and personality most.

Now, why don’t you tell us which of these styles best describe you!

If you are yet to go shopping for your wedding accessories, don’t forget to check out our fabulous wedding jewelry and accessories collection on this page here. From tiaras, attractive headpieces necklaces, earrings and more, we have everything that you need to dazzle and shine on your special day. We also have great offers and attractive discounts on accessories purchases, when you pick your wedding gown from Best for Bride. And, if you don’t want to buy all these items for your one-time occasion, our rental services are the perfect budget-friendly option. Why don’t you visit us today, and see how we can help you become the decked-up, pretty bride you always longed to be.

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Sparkling Selections: 10 Essential Tips to Keep in Mind When Picking Your Wedding Jewelry!

wedding jewelry

While a wedding dress can transform you into a beautiful bride, wedding jewelry is quintessential to add the finishing touches to your bridal look. Your choice of accessories impacts your wedding day look to considerable extent, and hence what you choose to wear with your wedding gown is very important. Here are ten smart tips to keep in mind when you, the pretty bride, have to choose your wedding day jewelry.

Always buy your wedding dress first

Your wedding dress should be first on your shopping list, and not something you buy after choosing your accessories. It is easier to find accessories that match the dress, than the reverse. The only exception is when you will be wearing heirloom jewelry. Heirloom jewelry usually features designs that go well with classic wedding gown designs. Since the wedding dress aisles are chock full of classic collections, it shouldn’t be difficult to find a dress that works with this jewelry. This may however, not be the case with modern designs. Since modern jewelry are usually very specific in nature, you may end up on a wild goose chase, to find a gown that matches the style of your chosen accessory. So, if your theme is something unusual, (like a peacock theme or rainbow theme), and you wish to find accessories like belts or headbands that match this theme, first buy your dress and then go shopping for the accessories. This will be easier to match.

Balance is key

Simple is elegant. The more details you use, the more chances of the finer ones getting lost in the jumble. When you choose your wedding jewelry, you should balance it out with the details on your dress. Keep the jewelry simple if your wedding gown is elaborate with intricate beading, embroidery, or other details. If you have chosen a minimalist wedding gown, or one with few details, it is fine to choose bigger and bolder jewelry. Similarly, pay attention to how the jewelry comes together with the details on your dress. If the wedding dress has an elaborate neckline, go easy on the necklace. Or if the dress has long sleeves, you can skip wearing a bracelet. If there is a motif of significant size on the bust, neckline or waist, your jewelry should not clash with it. Balancing your total look is tricky, but it can be achieved if you try to focus on what you really need. Your guests will not think much of your fashion sense if you look like a disco ball. So, stay away from the temptation to choose more sparkles than is really necessary.

You need not wear several jewelry pieces

Whether you buy a jewelry set, or choose each piece separately, you do not have to wear everything on the list. This can again clutter up the overall look, and take away the impact that can be achieved by just one statement piece. Wear small studs or leave out earrings entirely if your necklace is flashy and big. You must also tie the overall look to any statement motifs or embellishments on your wedding gown. If your dress features a beaded sash or waistband, go easy with the bling in your necklace. A single statement jewelry piece like tanzanite earrings is very fashionable. When no other pieces compete for attention, all eyes will be on this single piece of jewelry, making it effective.

The metal colors should match the dress

This is because some colors look good together, while other combinations may clash against each other and ruin the effect of both. When choosing jewelry, you have choices like white, gold and pink. Jewelry made from metals like silver, palladium, platinum and white gold look good with stark white dresses or those with silver embellishments and beading. Jewelry in shades of yellow and gold look better with creamy white wedding dresses. Rose gold goes with white and silver. Also if the embellishments in your dress are silver, stick to the same color or gemstones that are set in a white base, so they match. If the embellishments are with pearls and beads, you could wear a string of pearls and other matching accessories. Colorful details on the dress, like sashes and waistbands should also be considered when choosing the color of the accessories. Certain shades like navy and gray look better with white than with gold or rose gold.

Don’t forget your hair

You may not be a big fan of wearing a tiara on your wedding day, but there is no harm if you do. Nevertheless, there are many fascinating options in hair accessories, like combs and head pieces that can make you look very pretty. Whether you tie your hair up or leave it down, you should consider decorating it with a headpiece that matches your dress and adds more impact to your overall look on the day. Choose big or small hair accessories, depending on the color and texture of your hair and the size of your face. If you have thick curls, you may need bigger accessories for it to be noticeable. For fine and thin hair, elaborate accessories may look too heavy. Also, your accessories need not be metal. For brides who love flowers, you can weave flowers into your hair for a natural but classic look. Flower crowns are another interesting accessory to consider. Also remember that varying the position of the accessory on your head, can help you achieve different looks. So, try out different options to find the best placement location. Finally, don’t pick out your hair accessories before deciding your wedding day’s hairstyle. This is because some hair accessories do not look good with specific styles. So, you may have to reconsider your choice if they do not go well when you try them together.

Think beyond the wedding ceremony

Unlike your wedding dress, you can get more than just one use out of your wedding jewelry. Keep this factor in mind when you choose accessories. This actually makes it worthwhile to spend a little more on your jewelry. Rather than choose accessories that are apt just for the day, or pieces that go well with the wedding theme, invest in jewelry that you like, and can see yourself using again in the future. If there is a gemstone that you are fond of, or there are certain designs that you have fallen in love with, this may be the time to seriously consider buying it. This could even be your something new. It is also a fact that jewelry is a good investment, as you can pass it on as an heirlooom to your children. They are more likely to use it than they are to use your wedding dress.

Consider renting if it is too expensive

If you are on a tight budget, investing too much money in your wedding accessories may not be possible. However, you do not want this factor to lessen the impact of your wedding day look. In such a case, you can have what you want for a reasonable budget, when you rent your accessories. At Best for Bride, we offer all bridal accessories on rent, just like we rent out wedding dresses. Since these pieces of jewelry are well-cared for, and look brand new, nobody is going to know that you aren’t wearing stuff that belongs to you. This is also an affordable option to have bigger and more beautiful and expensive pieces that you may not be able to consider otherwise. Choose jewelry that matches your wedding dress style, and collect it a day or two before your wedding after signing the required paperwork. All you now have to do is take good care of them while they are in your custody, and enjoy dressing up like a princess on the biggest day of your life; without a hefty fee, that is!

The necklace can make or break your look

If there is one thing that your jewelry should match, it is the neckline of your dress. Finding the right adornment for your neckline style can instantly add extra points to your look. For a low-cut neckline like a sweetheart or strapless, almost any style of necklace would look good. This can be a string of pearls, a bold necklace or even a simple necklace with a pendant. The dress will usually feature an ornate neck area for the illusion neckline. This eliminates the need for a necklace, and you can wear a small one if absolutely necessary. A thin chain with a pendant would go well with a V-neckline. For halter dresses, it is best to skip the necklace altogether and focus on the hair and ear accessories instead.

Strive to stick to how you normally look

If you have always been big on the bling, your wedding day needs not be different. However, if you have always worn simple accessories, then you will feel and look drastically different on your wedding day if you were to drown yourself in jewelry. Whatever you wear should be an extension of your personality. Only then will it bode well with your overall look. So, don’t try something that you have never done before, for the first time on your wedding day. Look to your best-looking moments from the past to decide what kind of jewelry will suit you the most. Think of the one piece of jewelry that everyone has appreciated on you, in the past. This design most likely complements your style and enhances your beauty. Try to find wedding jewelry in a similar style, and you are likely to find the best one for your natural features. As with your hairstyle and makeup, your accessories should also enhance your natural beauty and add that extra dose of glamour to you—not change you into a whole other person who nobody can recognize.

Mix and match jewelry sensibly

Your wedding day is not the occasion to bring out all the expensive stuff that you own. As with mixing metals in your accessories, mix the gemstones also with care. Too much variation in color, style and design can do more harm than good in making you look your best. Stick with one colored stone throughout your accessories and choose jewelry that follows a similar pattern. Mixing up pink and white pearls in different parts of your ensemble, or wearing rhinestones on your neck and pearls in your bracelet can make you look like a fashion disaster. Also, don’t forget to match your watch to the rest of your jewelry in terms of color and finish. If you have difficulty finding one that goes well with the rest of your accessories, there is no harm in skipping it.

It is absolutely essential to try on your wedding jewelry, along with your wedding dress, before your wedding day. You can take your accessories to one of your fitting appointments when you will try on your wedding dress. If you do your hair also in the style that you will be wearing on your wedding day, you can have a fair idea of how you will look on your big day. This will also allow you to modify the look, if you want to.

At Best for Bride, you can buy or rent a range of wedding accessories. This includes tiaras, earrings, headpieces, bracelets, rings, necklaces and much more. Visit our online shop to find out the various designs we feature. You can also shop from our extensive collection of wedding gowns and dresses for the rest of the wedding party, including flower girls and mother-of-the-bride party favors and décor items. We pride ourselves on being a unique and one-stop destination for everything bridal and are sure that you will find all you need for your dream wedding in our store. Visit us today to find out how we can help you.

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7 perfect ideas for an environment-friendly wedding

You will already be aware of the fact that weddings use up lots of resources and are least environment-friendly, unless you attempt to make it otherwise. Fortunately, many couples today consider the environmental impact of everything they do, and choose to make wise and eco-friendly choices. The same applies to weddings too, and there are various ways in which you can plan an exciting, but sensible wedding that doesn’t harm the environment any more than is absolutely necessary.

There is a huge misconception that making green choices for your wedding means you have to compromise on style or function, and also that it can end up being very expensive. This is in fact, far from the truth. You can have a fantastic green wedding with as much an impact as any other wedding, if you plan it well. Additionally, there are several advantages of . Let us first look at what they are.

  • Our planet can no longer take the brunt of our demand for paper, water, energy and resources. Every wedding creates huge quantities of garbage and affects the environment in many different ways. A few eco-conscious choices can control this damage to a great extent.
  • When you make green choices and introduce this concept to your friends and family, they will also be intrigued by the options on offer. You can thus not only do your bit, but also promote an environment-conscious move, through your choices.
  • Simple actions like using less paper, making use of seasonally and locally available resources etc, can save you a lot of money and help you plan a budget wedding with huge impact. It is all about exploring the available options and keeping an open mind.

We have discussed some ideas in our previous post on planning a green wedding here. Let’s continue with some more ideas today. So, join in the fun.

1.Eco Jewelry

wedding jewelry

Do you really need that solitaire diamond for your engagement ring, for it to be meaningful? Wouldn’t responsibly and sensibly sourced jewelry and those that make use of recycled or repurposed stones and gems be equally unique? It could actually be extra-special, precisely for this reason! Ethically sourced diamonds are a valuable find that will give you what you want, sans the guilt. Cultured diamonds and other gemstones look equally good as their original counterparts, but with the added advantage that you will be wearing a stone that isn’t tainted by the sad stories behind the mining and extraction of such precious stones. Although these rings are grown chemically in a lab, they possess similar properties to the original stone and so would be just as durable and last as long as an original. The other great option is to use family heirlooms. If you aren’t a fan of the style, you can always have it reworked as it would still be a greener choice than getting a brand new one. Antique jewelers offer you opportunities to find something really special and perhaps with a history to it. So, explore these options to find not only your engagement ring, but also your wedding day jewelry. We found this wonderful article on the Inhabitat page that opens up a world of options in eco-friendly wedding rings. Why don’t you check it out to see the various choices that you can consider for your green wedding jewelry.

2.Reusable bridesmaid dresses

Choosing eco-friendly bridesmaids dresses may not be too easy, as we would be looking at choices in unusual fabrics like hemp or bamboo for it to truly be eco-friendly choices. Although it isn’t impossible to find a dress that fits the needs, it isn’t necessary that you will be able to acquire them as easily as you would if you were to go shopping the usual way. So, what we suggest is to look at this idea from a different perspective. One of the common things most brides do is to choose bridesmaid dresses so they fit the wedding theme perfectly. This can narrow down the choices drastically, as standard bridesmaids dresses aren’t usually preferred for use on another occasion. If you have your mind set on peach or yellow as your bridesmaids dress color, you can easily imagine how many of your bridesmaids will bother using the dress ever again. Fortunately, you can quickly change the picture by making a different choice. We suggest choosing bridesmaid dresses in neutral colors and in universally flattering designs, so they find use more than just once. Colors like black, brown and navy, as suggested in this previous post, are universally appealing colors that aren’t typical bridesmaid material. So, your girls are more likely to find better use for it, and you do the planet a favor by choosing a dress that will be used adequately for the resources that went into creating it.

3.Digital photo albums

wedding photo

One of the budget bombers in a wedding is the photography package that a couple books. Apart from the huge amount that goes into hiring a professional photographer, more money is spent for the rest of the things like photos in frames and the wedding album. Just think of how necessary all this actually is. Do you really need that wedding album or would the pictures on the CD do just as well? The main advantage of digital photography today is that it reduces the need and use of paper, which is a diminishing natural resource. Since you will mostly be sharing your pictures with all your friends and family online, ask yourself if you need more prints than what you will be displaying in your own home? And if you opt out of the wedding album option, you may be able to save a significant amount on the photography cost. Before you go and order your wedding album, wait for a while to make sure you think it is necessary. If you do, you can always have one made from the wedding photos you will anyway have, and perhaps gift it to yourself as an anniversary gift. Article on the Green Bride Guide also suggests asking your potential photographer whether they use green practices such as rechargeable batteries and non-toxic inks, if you are looking for the right person who shares your vision.

4.Artificial bouquets and boutonnieres

flower arrangement

Are you aware of the environmental impact of cut flowers? These flowers are usually grown in greenhouses, using loads of chemicals and transported from abroad to make it to your wedding. Imagine the damage each of the steps in their growth, packing, preserving and shipping cause the environment! Make a green choice by opting for artificial flower bouquets instead. You can recycle material like paper or fabric to create beautiful bouquets. The Its Always Autumn blog provides plenty of tutorials on how you can design beautiful flowers for your customized bouquet. You can also preserve an original flower bouquet, but it is expensive to do so and requires maintenance, and still needn’t look the same as it did. Now, if you simply must have an original flower bouquet, at least consider faux flowers for your bridesmaid bouquets and boutonnieres. Not only will it be a lot easier on your wallet, it will also look stunning if you plan it well in advance and do it well.

5.Reusable décor

bamboo

The most common wedding décor involves lot of flowers and foliage, most of which will be trashed at the end of the day. Make a change by choosing your décor wisely so that it finds further use. Options you can consider are potted plants like succulents and décor accessories like soy candles which can be used again. You can also create interesting table and aisle decorations with faux flowers and artificial foliage. Another interesting option is to deck up your tables with cacti, lucky bamboo or other interesting potted plants which double up as party favors for your wedding guests. This way they will find a home after the ceremony, and will live on as interesting keepsakes from your wedding day. Plants like lucky bamboo and succulents are easy to grow, and even guests with a black thumb will not be able to kill them off, try as much as they might! Take it further by personalizing your décor with natural elements like twigs, cones, acorns and branches that bring the outdoors into your venue. With a little creativity and inspiration, it is possible to craft stunning centerpieces and venue décor that is environment friendly in every way.

6.Reuse a wedding dress

You do not need a brand new wedding dress to be a brand new bride. You can do the same with a second-hand wedding dress or even a rented one. Not only is this the right choice for an environmentally conscious bride, it is also easy on your budget. At stores like Best for Bride, you can find great wedding dress choices from a range of top-notch designer collections on rent, and these will hardly cost you anything for the look you achieve with them. If you click on this link, you can find out all the information you need about renting your wedding gown and even the rest of the accessories to go with it. The other idea is to remove your mother’s or even grandmother’s wedding gown from the attic and give it new life by have it redone in a modern style. If you have ever watched the show “Something borrowed, something new,” you will know that a talented gown designer can transform any old-fashioned wedding gown into the most modern silhouettes, while keeping the original charm still alive. As you breathe new life into an heirloom with a re-purposed wedding gown, not only do you make a conscious choice, you also add more meaning to your wedding day by bringing in memories from another happy marriage. One other thing you may not have considered is that the color of the fabric is an indication of how much bleaching the dress has been put through. Remember that bleaching introduces several toxins into the environment, and you may be better off with a natural organic white color than stark white, if this factor bothers you.

7.Make your menu organic

organic

Every location has its own organic farms, and most vendors will agree to work with organic ingredients to create your wedding menu. You may have to think outside the box to make it work with what is available locally and seasonally, but it is definitely worth the effort. One thing many people associate with organic is bland and boring. But, this is wrong. Almost every fruit, vegetable, meat and dairy product you find on the regular supermarket shelves will also have an organic version. They can all be used in exactly the same way as you would with the inorganic counterpart. So, don’t let this idea limit you in any way. Organic is undoubtedly tastier and there are no dearth of choices in dishes. When the food you serve is free from additives, preservatives and artificial flavors and colors, it will go down well with your guests and you do them a big favor by choosing to serve a healthy hearty meal. Our favorite in the reception menu where organic food is concerned, are naked cakes without elaborate colored frosting. Usually decorated with fruits, berries and flowers, they are a delight as they are natural and delicious in their own way.

We hope we’ve shed some light on the different ways in which you can plan a stunning wedding without compromising on the details, and yet do it in a green and environment friendly manner. At Best for Bride we are constantly exploring everything that is even remotely associated with weddings. So, keep visiting our blog page for the most hot and happening updates in the wedding world. Also, don’t forget to visit our one-stop bridal website for all your wedding needs. We bring you not only wedding dresses, but have an impressive collection of bridesmaids dresses, décor options, cakes, favors, invitation cards, photography packages and much, much more.