Tuesday, April 22, 2008

Finally a blog about jewelry! Yeah - I never write about wedding jewelry so I was excited about this blog. Plus, Elizabeth Gregory Fine Jewelers offers ABG brides a discount so be sure to mention it when you visit the store. I think it’s 25% off the setting (not the stone).

I’m so lucky to have friends who pick up my slack…

Today’s guest post is by A Magical Affair, Nashville wedding planner.

When it comes to rings, most people think of that ever-shiny and pretty engagement ring that the guy gives his lady as a pledge of his love and affection. That ring ends up setting a tone for the wedding band that the to-be groom will purchase for his to-be bride. The shopping for a ring can be one of the most stressful experiences for your guys, ladies, maybe even more so than the actual wedding planning process!

But, an important responsibility falls on your shoulders, too- and that’s the selection of his very-special ring, the wedding band. We talked with our friend in the jewelry business (and soon to be groom this June!), Benjamin Meisch of Elizabeth Gregory Fine Jewelers in Brentwood, TN about some cool and unique wedding bands, and he gave us all the coolest and most unique rings that Elizabeth Gregory carry from Scott Kay.

(Ladies, a quick PSA: Elizabeth Gregory is our favorite jeweler in the Nashville area- not just because they give the best customer service, but they have the best selection of unique and beautiful jewelry around. Looking for a cool gift for your ‘maids? They have beautiful necklaces from Fana and Gellner pearls. Want to give your guy a present that he can set his watch to- what about an incredible piece of art that is also a timepiece from Ulysse Nardin? We can’t sing their praises enough, and you should head over to Maryland Farms to check out their selection and service )

Back to the rings. We really like this ring because it’s unique and innovative, and has a timeless feel:

And if you’re looking for the more “classic ring”, we like this updated traditional ring with a beautiful finish:

We compiled this cool ring “inspiration board” to show off the array of rings that Scott Kay offers, showing that you can really find that perfect ring for him:

The top row of rings offers a more modern, contemporary look, with inset designs from engraving to diamonds (hey, he could use a little sparkle on his ring finger, too, brides!)

Want some texture? The middle ring shows off a cool inter-weaved design in solid platinum. There’s also a brushed finish ring to the far left and below it, another weaved design that really makes the ring unique.
The last row shows off some really cool metalwork offered by Scott Kay. Want your guy to show off his commitment & style- one of these might be perfect for him!

Benjamin and his dad, Gregory, own Elizabeth Gregory at Maryland farms, and they have an awesome selection of bands, rings, and much more from Scott Kay and other designers, like JB Star and Christian Bauer. We highly recommend them for their unique selection, awesome customer service, and beautiful jewelry. Who knows, you might find something for him…and for yourself on your special day, too.

Is your groom growing jealous that you’ve become addicted to ashleysbrideguide.com, theknot.com and other wedding planning sites? I am sure he wants in on all the fun:) Well, check out groomgroove, a totally helpful website just for grooms! Now, I know quite a few grooms who visit ABG regularly (thank you); here’s another site to bookmark. Oh, check out their $1000 “Proposal Story” Contest.

Tuesday, November 27, 2007

Well, it is officially engagement season!

And for all you Nashville guys searching the internet to create a perfect proposal, here’s my virtual helping hand.

This adorable ornament, available from Red Envelope, is a cute and simple way to package your ring for your bride-to-be. What makes it great is that the outside of the ornament says “Wishes” and the inside says “Do Come True”. This simple yet touching message sums up exactly what you want to say - right:) Plus, it is perfectly sized to fit an engagement ring. (Disclaimer - I havent seen it in person so be sure that it will fit the ring before you order.)

So, whether you place the ornament on the tree the night before Christmas, give it to her on Christmas Day or incorporate it into a larger proposal idea - it makes a great package.

Here are some other helpful proposal tips and ideas…

Tips - Proposal Mistakes

Ideas - Best Marriage Proposals, Romantic Tips, Other Ideas, 21 Proposal Ideas

Wednesday, October 31, 2007

My husband (John) loves the Louisville Cardinals. He is completely obsessed. In fact, he is headed to a game as I blog. (Hey - it keeps the marriage balanced:)

If you have a sports fan of your own - whether it be your fiance, a groomsmen or a bridesmaid - check out these neat gift ideas.

Fathead offers bigger than life, sport decals for any wall. He will love placing the decal in the office, game room or wherever he enjoys watching the game. He will love showing off his sweet decal, demonstrating his devotion to his fav team.

It makes a unique, personal gift for groom, groomsmen or any member of your wedding party who loves sports. And, consider inscribing a special note on the decal with a sharpie.

Currently, Fatheads is offering a special offer - BUY ANY 2, GET 1 FREE! for a Limited Time. They cost about $80 so be sure to jump on this deal if there’s interest.

I am sure our groomsmen would have preferred this over the monogrammed cuff links:) Which reminds me - another great gift for a groomsmen who love sports = a newspaper (or magazine) subscription. I mean really, who wouldn’t prefer something fun that screams their personality over something practical? Last year, John was a groomsmen and received a subscription to the Louisville Cardinals sports newspaper. He receives it every week or so and loves it and looks forward to receiving it. It is a gift that he will remember…until the subscription ends.

Nashville brides, when you’re in the middle of planning, you don’t have time to think outside the box to make everything personal and tailored. But, use me as a resource - I can help you plan your fabulous Nashville wedding during half the time!