Vincent & Kristy

The wedding reception

Announcements

Wedding invitations not only set the tone of your celebration, but are the first joint statement you and your fiance make publicly after becoming engaged. Here are a few tips to consider.

• On the invite, there should be the name of whoever's hosting the wedding (usually the bride's parents) at the top. Remember, the bride's name should always come before the groom's.
• It's a good idea to order your entire stationery wardrobe from invites to thank-you notes from the same stationer to save time and money. It'll also ensure paper, design and color consistency.
• Invitations should be ordered no later than three months and sent out no later than six to eight weeks.
• Include an RSBVP card, a phone number or email address where guests can confirm their attendance by a certain date.
• Drawing up your guest list, requires on part realism (budget and logistics) and two parts hospitality and graciousness. Be as tolerant as possible tot he groom's as well as both sets of parents' requests. Don't forget being obstinate about the guest list may strain relations with your in-laws for eternity. And never make the mistake of sending invites to people you really don't want to come on the assumption they won't. They're normally the very first to accept! Also you don't have to get 500 invitations for 500 people. Some of these people are in couples, so you'll only need one per pair. But get extra envelopes just in case you mess up with the addresses.
  

Diamond care

So you have chosen and finally purchase, your precious stone. How do you give it the best care and attention to make sure it stays beautiful forever? There are a few simple rules to follow.

Diamonds will not abrade or chip as do other stones and they respond well to care and attention. Remember, diamonds are great grease collectors. natural oils from the skin, hand creams, suntan lotions and the like will adhere to the surface of the stone and prevent the proper refraction of light. This, in turn will cause even a superb gem to look dull and lifeless. The safest cleaning combination is warm soapy water and a tooth brush. soak int eh war,m soapy water and clean the top and under surface with a soft toothbrush.

The gold setting of diamond can also become dull without proper care. Clean it regularly with a chamois cloth. Don't clean your gem rings with alcohol or chemicals. Leave any chemical treatment to the experts. Diamonds set with emeralds, rubies or sapphires need extra care and are best left to a professional jeweler to clean.

Emeralds are very sensitive and fracture easily; also the color is often unstable due to exposed flaws which occur int eh cutting. soaking in alcohol or chemicals can cause the color to leach out. Rubies and sapphires are more durable an respond well to cleaning care. Remember harsh chemicals will affect the setting of any stone.

If you are a swimmer, beware. Swimming in chlorinated pools every day will cause erosion of gold resulting in the weakening of a ring setting or the eroding of the gold links in a chain. So leave the gold and precious stones at home when going on a sun-fun holiday. If you have a good jewelery and enjoy wearing it, one of you best investments in the purchase of a good quality jewelery box. Moore damage is done to jewelery lying loose in unlined boxes than is ever done through constant wear on the hand.

A diamond is tough. Lying loose it can badly scratch other softer stones and pearls. So a jewelery box with several drawers lined with silk or velvet is a must. It might also have a drawer with a ring roll so rings can stand upright, a drawer for chains and necklets to be laid flat and a thickly padded drawer for brooches to be pinned safely. A thing of beauty IS a joy forever if you work at it.

Buying Diamond

If you are planing to buy a diamond either of your engagement or wedding, here are some tips you may want to know.

Rule number one is: always go to an established jeweller Stay away from the fly-by-night dealers. This is usually a large transaction that one must entrust to the hands and appraisals of the most reputable diamond dealers.

Rule number two is: to insist upon obtaining a certificate on all diamond gemstones of one carat and above, more or less all stones valued from $5,000 and above. There are a hundred different certificates around says a diamond expert. The two officially recognized certificates are those issued by the international gem societies, HRD, tech Diamond High Council of Belgium or GIA, the Gemological Institute of America. They are the only internationally recognized documents on the world's diamonds.

Valuing a Diamond - part 2

Clarity refers to the presence of imperfections and flaws within a stone the INCLUSIONS. The vast majority of gemstones do contain flaws, bubbles, clouds and feathers whose size and placement affects the valuation of a stone. A totally transparent stone, which has no visible inclusions when examined under a jeweller's 10-power magnifying glass, is deemed FLAWLESS or loupe-clean. Inclusions are measured by the standard GLA (clarity grading system) of 12 basic divisions, from loupe-clean (flawless) to vvs (for very very small) to vs1 and vs2 and so on.

The fourth C in gemmology stands for CUT, a most vital factor in the valuation of a diamond. Cut refers actually to two aspects of the whole gemstone.

First there is the overall shape of the polished stone. Diamonds are generally considered in six basic and popular shapes, emerald (rectangular), oval, brillant (round), pear, heart and marquise(boat-shaped). The brilliant is the most popoular shape : a rounded spinning top-like full-cut diamond with 58 facets. The 70 facet radiant is a new cut in the market, similar to tech emerald cut but with more brilliance. A baguette is a small rectangular rod cut with less facets than usual. In the end, the shape of a gemstone is largely a matter of personal taste.

Valuing a Diamond - part 1

The four C's;
Diamonds are a confusing and risky business. Fortunately there is a practical process almost a scientific means for valuing diamonds and then establishing prices. Diamond dealers and their buyers use a standard vocabulary or jargon in their gemstone world. This revolves around measuring the weight and quality of a gemstone. The determining factors of gemology are called the four C's; carat, color, clarity and cut. These are the four basic dimensions of gem-talk.

The term CARAT, for a standard weight was originally derived from the word carob, a small oriental bean which ancient lapidaries balanced upon their fine measuring scales. The carat today is the gemmologist's unit of measure equivalent to 200 milligrams or one fifth gram. A point is a one-percent fraction of a carat, so there are 100 points in a carat. A gemstone is thus generally priced on a per carat basis and the larger a whole stone is the more costly it is value.

The quality of a gemstone diamond or otherwise is determined but its COLOR. The shade, intensity and hue of a stone may indicate rarity, which affects both price and perceived beauty. The whiter a diamond, the deeper the green of an emerald, the more rare, the more precious, the more expensive. To many diamond lovers, the stone's color is of prime importance.

Diamonds are found in different colors, even in finely varying degrees of white from exceptionally white-plus to tinted white. International diamond dealer color-grade stones by a standard alphabetical system of twelve major classes. Most stones contain traces of color, even the slightest tinge that only an expert eye can detect. The most common colors among diamonds are yellow and brown. Sometimes reputable jewellers label, their diamond colors by particular trade terms, crystal, white, silver cape, etc; terms calculated to evoke a customer's interest. many experts recommend that given a choice, one would buy the whitest possible diamond and sacrifice the next factor, clarity.

About Diamonds

Found in India more than 2000 years ago, diamonds first trickled into the Mediterranean world through itinerant travellers and traders. In 1477, the Archduke of Austria, Maximillian 1, presented his fiancee, Mary of Burgundy, with the first recoded diamond engagement ring "set with jewels". And from the 15th century onwards the queens and court ladies of Europe vied to out dazzle one another with their jewels.

In the 17th century a venetian cutter named Peruzzi invented the 52 facet form, considered the perfect number of surfaces for the maximum play of light. Men continued to give women diamonds as symbols of love and diamonds have endured to bind romance far beyond all the noblewomen of yore.



Today diamonds, as indeed all precious gemstones, have become fashion with hardly a nod to folklore and mythology. Jewellery those personal adornments encrusted with gems like emeralds, diamonds and rubies usually the foible of royalty alone have become part and parcels of a modern woman's wardrobe, her enduring accessory for style and aplomb.

Jewels now glint in their most contemporary settings among valuable sets of rings, pins, necklaces, bracelets etc. And diamonds could be everyone's best friend indeed, personifying many precious things, fashion and wardrobe, unmatchable status symbols, appendages to a personality, as well as investments against the future. All these values compressed into a brilliant crystalline gemstone.

Diamonds

As long as romance is in the air, our jewelers have little need to worry about the diamond trade. If you are about to own one or already has one, perhaps it would be interesting for you to know a little about your gorgeous rocks.

Do you know that a man gives his fiancee a diamond ring (symbolising love and affection never-ending) to be worn on the third finger of her left hand because it was one believed that the Vena Amoris or vein of love ran directly form this finger to the heart?

SHAZAM! Such are the romantic tales that would cut straight to the sensibilities, such mythologies of gemstones, diamonds and other fascinating mineral rocks. Gemstones have been used for centuries for many different reasons, in many different reasons, in many different ways. But perhaps no tale is so touchign with its romantic point made through time immemorial as this one of the diamond sealing a betrothal upon a feminine ring finger.

Diamonds, those durable, dazzling gemstones are forever. Forever beautiful, forever rare, forever precious, forever a symbol of love and affection. The diamond, a fascinating miracle of nature, is the hardest material in the world, the most durable and the most desirable of all gemstones. Derived from Mother Nature's long and "magical" compression process, it is crystallized from the roughest of earthly materials,pure carbon. Born in ancient ages, diamonds and their mythologies live on dedicated to love, beauty and vanity.

History of diamonds- coming up next .......

How to use up more calories

Our bodies have a "basal metabolic rate", which is the rate they bur up calories while at rest. For many women this is around 60 calories per hour and every time we move we use up extra calories.

So you need to find way of increasing the calories you use up by taking regular gentle exercise. Here are some tips and guides on ways to burn an extra 250 calories a day.

• 20 minutes walking (10minutes each way) to and from work. Get off the bus one stop earlier. 120 cals.
• 2 minutes waling up stairs at work instead of taking the lift. 20 cals.
• 15 minutes mowing the lawn. 105 cals.

Total 245 calories burnt.

• 20 minutes dancing to a CD instead of watching TV. 130cals.
• Two 3-minutes sessions of marching on the spot while waiting for the kettle to boil. 33 cals.
• 15 minutes briskly mopping the floor or walking at lunch time instead of sitting reading. 90 cals.

Total 253 calories burnt

Make sure the ways you exercise fit in easily with the rest of what you do each day or you won't keep it up.

Here are 10 ways to exercise towards a slimmer you:

1. Dancing (Ballroom) 84 cals.
2. Walking slowly (4km/hr) 96 cals.
3. Light housework. 99cals.
4. Food shopping. 102 cals.
5. Cycling. 106 cals.
6. Swimming (slow) 211 cals.
7. Running (slow, 8km/her) 252 cals.
8. Marching (rapid) 234 cals.
9. Ironing. 54 cals.
10. Cooking. 74 cals.
    

Losing calories for the BIG day!

Put your best effort into whatever activity you're doing. For optimum calorie burning, you should be able to feel your heart beating (though not racing) and be slightly (but not very) out of breath. If you're sweating a little bit, that also shows the activity is working!

Using your arms as much as possible when exercising, for example swing them by your sides when walking or wave them around when dancing. Us the first two minutes of your particular activity to warm up gently, to help prevent any muscular aches tomorrow and also reduce the risk of straining or causing an injury. Wear comfortable clothes, whatever that you may decide to do. if you're walking or cycling to work, take a change of clothing and wear several layers in case you need to strip a layer off when you get warm.

If you find exercise boring, try to find new ways to keep yourself active. Think of all the things you liked to do as a child and try one or two again. it could be anything from cycling or swimming to playing badminton and even roller-blading! If you haven't worked out for a long while , check with your GP before starting any form of exercise.

Let's burn up those calories

Getting ready for the big day can be nerve raking for some bride-to-be especially when one is trying to lose some weight for that special day. Nevertheless, exercise doesn't have to be hard work. Get the balance just right and you can easily make it part of your everyday life.

In order to lose weight more effectively, try and do some kind of exercise. But that doesn't mean forcing yourself to jog miles or joining an expensive gym - big differences in the way we look and feel don't have to mean big sacrifices to make on our part. All you need do to lose half a pound of fat a week is incorporate an extra 250 calories worth of activity into your daily life.

The thought of doing something each day may seem daunting, but it doesn't have to be. It's the little things that add up, such as parking further in the car park so you have to carry your shopping bag a little bit further.

Check references

First and foremost, only deal with companies that you know to be reputable. Obtaining references is easier than you think. Legitimate business people will always supply prospective customers with the names of previously satisfied clients (ask for at least three). It's up to you, however, to call them. Or, you might ask recently married friends and family for recommendations on where to shop. Failure to do this may lead to some disappointing surprises late on.

Be sure to get everything in writing for it is the best way to safeguard yourself against empty promises and hidden fees later on. Never pay any sum not even a small deposit without first signing a detailed contract that includes all points of the agreement including cancellation and refund policies. If you're not completely comfortable, don't sign on the spot. A reputable pro won't pressure you. If he does, don't hire him.

Be Wise!

Whether you're a professional money manager or someone who has trouble balancing her own check book, managing wedding-planning finances is uncharted territory. Not only are you paying for services you're not likely to have experience with, but you're also prone to getting caught up in the fantasy and excitement that drives the bridal business.

After all, you're setting out to buy the wedding of your dreams and it's hard to put a price on fantasy. Try not to be fooled by all the romance and trimmings, a beautiful wedding can be had for nay price.

While most wedding professionals know their reputations depend on honest practices, there are also a few less than scrupulous ones out there. That's why it's important to understand how to protect your wedding dollars before you make your first purchase.

Wedding Photos - Courtesy of Great Wall Studio

Wedding Gown

Every bride wants to look gorgeous on her big day, one of the most important decisions she will make is what dress to wear. While choices were once limited to traditional white ball gowns, that is no longer the case. Today, many dresses are available in everything from ivory to peach, green to red. Styles have changed too, so that you may select a gown that's sophisticated, sexy or even traditional according to different culture.

Since the bride's dress sets the tone for the entire wedding party, you will want to select your own attire first. Most ready made wedding gowns are available at bridal salons but you may want a custom-made wedding gown and this may take up to three months for delivery, plus extra time for alterations. It's wise to start looking for a dress five to eight months before your weddings.

Take your time by visiting different bridal salons and in your area. This will give you a better idea of the styles, fabrics and range of costs available. Do keep in mind the season of your wedding. Though many fabrics may be worn year round, some are heavier than others. Silk charmeuse, chiffon and organza are light and flowing. Satin and tulle can be worn for all seasons.

If you love old gown your mother wore on her wedding day, by all means wear it.

Brides - Requesting Assistance

Ask a trusted friend to be your wedding coordinator. This will help take off some steam.Always let those close set to you know that you love them. Find something that relaxes you. It could be cross-stitching your wedding favors while you sit in front of the telly which is a good substitute to bingeing on potato chips to keep your hands busy.

Limit your alcohol intake. Go easy on the late nights, disco sessions and the second-hand smoke that comes with them. Your skin and body will thank you for it. Try getting the requisite six to eight hours of sleep a day. Your body and skin repairs itself while you sleep. being well rested builds your immune system, making you less susceptible to stress.

If you feel all wound up, go for a massage. No time? A 30-minute foot reflexology session during your lunch break or after work can do wonders.

Unveil the Glowing Beauty1

If you don't already have a regular beauty regime, it's time to get one. Find a good skincare line and stick to it. Cleanse moisturize and tone twice a day. Start going for facials once a month.It's distressing too! Start taking care of your hands by applying a hand cream every night and go for regular manicures. Everyone is going to ooh and ahh at you engagement ring right up to the day of your wedding.

In the shower, exfoliate with a scrub or washcloth. pay attention to your back and décolletage whether or not you're planning to wear a gown that bares these parts. If you want to do justice to your sexy gown. Don't neglect your calves and your feet especially if you think you are going to show them off in those exquisite Jimmy Choos.

Invest in creams specially formulated of the neck and eye regions to kept you swan-like and doe-eyed. Pick up some good make up habits. Like removing your make up before you go to bed. Or washing out your makeup brushes more regularly.

You might not want to deliberately go out and get a tan. If you must, besides watching out for the aging UV rays, wear a bandeau top to eliminate any strap marks. Now's a good time to try to quit smoking. Cigarettes- thinning skin and wrinkles. If you know something gives you a rash or an allergic reaction (say your friend's dog) stay away for it! You want to look beautiful for yourself and the world.

Learn how to take deep breaths or take up yoga.

Brides - Beautify yourself

Start growing your hair long enough to be pulled into a chignon on your wedding day. There's good reason too. It keeps you from having to brush the strands out of your face when you busy shaking hands with hundreds of people. Long hair also gives your hair stylish more scope to work with and it helps leave your options. You You can always cut it later if you change your mind.

Start looking around for a hair and makeup artist. it's less of a coordination hassle if you can get one person to do both jobs. Speak to married friends for recommendations. See if you like the way their wedding photos turned out. But you'll have to work fast especially if you're planning to hold your wedding on an auspicious date because the best stylists get booked up faster than a date with an eight in it.

Get a trial with your shortlisted stylist. Ideally, your stylist should be someone you feel comfortable with and one who understands your skin and your needs. His reputation for turning up on time is also a good sign.

Brides - Eat Right!

Avoid crash and faddish diets. Instead, start eating sensibly. Have three balanced meals a day. making time for breakfast. It's the most important meal to kick-start the day. Try not to eat dinner later than 8.30pm to avoid gastric pangs.

Skip the soft drinks if you can it's the main culprit behind a bloated stomach. Instead, drink six to eight glasses of water a day. it's the secret to good skin. You're less likely to retain water or feel less tired if yo are drinking enough water. Your body will also need more water if you exercising regularly.

Cut the salt. You're less likely to have water retention this way. Reduce snacking in between meals. Rather snacking in between meals. Rather than totally restrict yourself, which will get you into a spiral of craving and guilt, moderation may be more effective.

Bride-To-Be -part2

Join a gym. A trainer will be able to advise you on exercise routines and nutrition and also help you chart your progress. Of course, you can join the best gym in the country but it's not use if you don't use is.

If gyms bore you,pick up a new sport. You'll not only be working towards a fitter you, you're also have a new accomplishment under your belt. Do be careful, though - blue black bruises aren't becoming on a bride!.

If you hate to work up a sweat, go swimming!. To avoid getting odd tan lines, especially if you plan n wearing a low-cut dress, swim in the evenings after work.

The Bride-To-Be - part 1

Beauty planner for brides-to-be is very important event in your life. The start of your engagement is a good time to say 'I do" to some healthy habits, which you might want to keep way beyond your wedding day.

Looking stunning on your big day is something that brides-to-be need to prepare 6 - 12 months before the big day. Here are some time-line guide to help you work towards it.

If you've been a couch potato for far too long, start off with a brisk walk in the park or waterfront on Sunday mornings or evenings with your fiance. If you have a dog, it will enjoy the fresh air too!. Slowly increase your pace to a slow joy as your endurance increases.

If you don't have a regular exercise routine, its never too early to start. Exercise not only reduces your health problems, it increases your stamina and energy, which help improve your posture and make you feel better about yourself.

Set realistic goals for your routine because disillusionment can prevent you from reaching your goal. To see visible results, you'll have to exercise at least three to four times a week, working out for a minimum of 45 minutes to one hour each time.

If you can't make time to work out regularly, you can get fit in other ways, like waling up the stairs to your office instead of taking the lift or walking to the bus stop instead of taking a cab.