Practical Issues to Consider When Buying an Engagement Ring

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Buying an engagement ring is one of the most daunting challenges a young man could face, and with so many things to consider, it is easy to be a little overwhelmed. If you are planning to pop the magic question anytime soon, here are some practical things to consider when buying a diamond engagement ring.

• Consider Her Lifestyle – Your fiancée's lifestyle will have some bearing on the ring choice. If, for example, she loves horse riding and extreme sports, you want to make sure that the ring setting is durable and not likely to catch on fabric. If she works with her hands, then you probably should avoid choosing a ring with a prong or clasp setting and perhaps look at rings with a bezel or channel setting, which holds stones more securely than a traditional prong setting.

• Her Personal Style – The last thing you want to do is buy a ring that she doesn’t like, so do a little research on her taste in jewellery. She might like fine things that age well, in which case, an antique diamond engagement ring might be appropriate, or if she is the kind of girl that likes to wear subtle jewellery, then you should choose something not too overbearing. Why not check out the Sydney engagement rings you can get from AE Design Jewellery, one of Australia’s leading designer jewellers with a wide range of quality rings, all at affordable prices.

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• Your Budget – Avoid the temptation of getting into serious debt over an engagement ring purchase, as no woman would want to be the cause of such a thing. The smart thing to do would be to start saving one year from when you intend to propose, and by putting something aside every month, the purchase won’t have a serious impact on your lifestyle.

• Know Her Ring Size – This is essential and you can do this in several ways – either ask a very good friend of hers to help, or borrow one of her rings, just long enough to know the size. You could imprint a ring onto a piece of clay, which is an accurate way of measuring ring size, only make sure that she wears the ring on the third finger of her left hand. This is not something to overlook, as it is rather an anti-climax to have to send the ring for resizing right after the proposal.

• Think Insurance – Such a valuable item must be adequately insured, and while losing it would be a disaster, at least you would have the insurance money to buy another ring. There are a few good reasons why you should take out insurance on a diamond engagement ring, which is recommended reading for all.

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Buying a diamond engagement ring is not something to rush into, and by taking into account all of the above, you should make the right design choices and your fiancée to be will be very proud to wear the ring that you selected.

Gift Ideas for Men for Their Special Loved Ones in Their Life

When it comes to buying thoughtful gifts, many men let themselves down and do not know what to look for when it comes to giving gifts to their partners. There are many gifts that you can select from that are perfect for all sorts of different occasions.

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You can get ideas from articles available online on what to give your beloved during special occasions. However long you have been together and whatever the occasion, below is some advice on simple gifts that can end up meaning a lot to that particular person in your life.

Flowers

OK, so it feels like a cliche, but there is a reason flowers as a gift have become a standard and a classic, and it’s because lots of people love them. They bring a splash of color, are imbued with meaning, and bring a smile to the giftee’s face. Arranging a Teleflora USA flower delivery or similar for your loved one will guarantee a positive result, especially if you put some thought into the chosen blooms. It doesn’t have to be red roses every time.

A Designer Watch
A designer watch makes the perfect gift for Christmas and birthday or even an anniversary celebration. There are many different styles available from a whole host of different designers, and the amount of money that you spend will all be determined by your budget. If you have the cash available you could pay thousands for a designer watch, or you can pick one up for less than £100. Although, if you give an expensive designer watch to your girlfriend, she may ask why was it not an engagement ring!

A Set Of Elegant Earrings

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One present that never fails to bring a smile is a set of quality earrings. No matter what style your other half usually wears, there are silver earrings for all occasions that will not break the bank. Sterling silver is a good gift, as some cheap gold alloys may contain metals which some people react badly to and are allergic. Earrings are the perfect present for Valentine’s Day, Mothers Day, Easter, or if you just want to tell them how much you care.

A Short City Break
The perfect present for couples who have been together a while and celebrating an anniversary or birthday, a city break is also excellent for parents and can be the relaxing time that you both need so much. The cost is going to vary greatly depending on where you are going, and how far you are travelling, but you can pick up many bargains throughout the year if you stay vigilant. It could also create the perfect chance to ask your girlfriend to marry you if you are looking to take your relationship to the next level. Choose somewhere that they have always wanted to go to before, and you will earn yourself even more brownie points!

A Day Out Shopping
When you do not have a clue what to get your better half for a special occasion, you can always offer them a day out shopping and you will accompany them, as well as pay for everything! You can make a day of it and take them somewhere they do not usually go and let them shop in new stores, and make a full day of it. After you finish shopping, you can go for a few drinks, watch a movie, or go for a nice romantic meal for two. Let them decide what it is they want, and they will be happy!

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You need to know the other person well to be able to understand what they want as well as like. The best gift is your undivided attention which shows them how special they are to you.

3 Self Care Solutions After An Injury

No matter how your injury happened, you're going to want to return to normality as quickly as possible. While doctors are essential to help you recover from an injury, there are a number of self-care steps that you can take as well. These will help to speed up your recovery time and see you regaining your health much faster. Even if your injury is going to be an unpleasant factor in your life for a long time, the following self-care solutions can improve your quality of life and see you take your first proactive steps on the road to recovery. Make sure that you follow this advice and your injury will have a much smaller negative impact on your life.

Beware inflammation
For any soft-tissue injury, you’re going to have to deal with and tackle inflammation. Sprains, tears, strains, and tendon damage are not minor injuries and should not be treated as such. While some swelling is to be expected (after all, it’s part of your body’s natural healing process), excessive signs can be an indication that your body is not reacting well to the injury. Make sure that you eat plenty of fruit, vegetables, flax seeds, and chia to reduce excessive inflammation. Avoid foods like:

• Donuts

• White Bread

• Margarine

• Lunch meat

Financial help
Being injured can often mean that you lose the ability to return to work. It can have a massive impact on your quality of life, and financial stress will not help your recovery time. Make sure that you receive any money that you might be entitled to. If the accident that caused your injury was the fault of someone else, then speak to The Compensation Experts and your bank balance could end up being the least stressful part of your recovery. Having financial support during an injury gives you the time and the space to work on getting back to full health.

Use Technology
You might think that your phone isn’t going to be much use for when you’re trying to get better after your accident. Think again. Have a look at the following apps that have been designed with the injured person in mind:

• SuperBetter is a great way to turn recovery into an actual game, with power-ups, quests, and even battles to help keep you engaged.

• If your goal is regaining your pre-injury levels of fitness, then check out Fitnet. These short, app-based workout plans are great motivation, and the camera on your phone will help you keep the right postures and forms for each exercise that you try.

• Your diet is going to be an essential factor in your recovery. Making sure that you’re eating the right foods can be difficult for many people, but Fooducate can help make it all easier. More than just a calorie counter, Fooducate also gives you valuable info about nutrition and even helps you build the best menu options for your goals.

Any injury is going to cause frustration, and recovery can be a challenge. As long as you take your time, and have the freedom to be able to do so, then your recovery from injury will be a much smoother process. Always get professional advice if you decide to tackle your injury proactively, and remember that pushing yourself too hard can make your injury worse. Be patient, and recovery will follow.

A Guide to Planning an Awesome Road Trip

While planes, trains, and buses can take you where you wish to go, few travel experiences are more exciting than a road trip. You’re bound to feel a buzz when you jump into a car to hit the open road, as different sights, sounds and people will await you.

However, to have an unforgettable time, you need to plan your journey perfectly. To ensure you’re 100% prepared, read this informative guide to planning an awesome road trip.

Pick the Perfect Car
Many people often choose to rent a car when heading off on a road trip; however, this can restrict your time and journey, as you’ll have to return the car at a destination on a specific day.

Instead, it might be better to take your own vehicle on the road with you, so you will have the flexibility to extend your road trip or cut it short. Of course, securing a car is easier said than done for some, especially if you have a poor financial history. If this is the case, consider bad credit auto loans at Crediful. It’s also wise to choose a vehicle that offers great gas mileage, so your money will go further throughout the journey.

Check Your Car Before You Travel
Before you put your luggage in a car and turn on the ignition, you should take the vehicle to a mechanic to check for any potential problems. You might also need to change your oil, review your lights, and refill your windshield wiper fluid. If you don’t, you’ll increase the likelihood of you being stranded by the roadside during your road trip.

Discuss How You’ll Divide the Driving
The last thing you’ll want to do is argue with your road trip buddies, which is why you must discuss how you’ll divide the driving between you. For instance, will you each drive for a few hours at a time or will one of you sit behind the wheel for the day until someone feels tired? Talking before an adventure will ensure you each know what’s expected of you before you step into a car, which can prevent conflict from occurring.

Book Hostels and Hotels in Advance
While you might want to see where the open road takes you during a road trip, it’s a sensible idea to book a hostel or hotel in advance. This will ensure you all have a safe place to sleep each night, so you’ll wake feeling refreshed and ready to get back onto the road the next morning. Plus, booking accommodation in advance could potentially reduce your expenditure, so you’ll have more money to spend throughout the adventure.

Pack Entertainment
Keep boredom at bay when driving down a dull highway by packing plenty of entertainment. For example, create a fun soundtrack you can all sing along to when driving from A to B. While the driver will need to pay attention to the road, passengers should also stock up on a portable DVD player, books, magazines, and crossword puzzles.

Bring a Real Map
While a GPS can accurately help you travel to your destination, a paper map will never lose power or break. It will, therefore, serve as a handy backup should your GPS fail on you. So, it will provide you with some peace of mind that you can safely make your way back home.

Leave Room for Spontaneity
While you might already have an idea of the destinations you want to visit during a road trip, you should leave a little room in your itinerary for spontaneity. Restricting yourself to a fixed schedule could result in you and your road trip buddies missing out on fun experiences, such as roadside attractions or exciting activities.

Avoid Troubled Spots
If you are driving for many hours during a road trip, you will not want to find yourself in the wrong place at the wrong time. For example, few things are more stressful than crossing the Hudson River during rush hour traffic. Ensure you have a smooth, hassle-free road trip by steering clear of traffic jams as much as possible.

Split Road Trip Tasks
Rather than one person handling all the road trip tasks, you could always split the duties up between you and your road trip buddies. For example, while some might be good at driving and navigating, others might prefer to plan meals or pack entertainment. Identify who does what well to effectively divvy up tasks and prevent one person from organizing everything.

Finding the Right Rock: Conflict-Free Diamonds

Conflict Free
Although for many people planning to tie the knot will not really care too much about the background of the type of diamond they buy for their betrothal rings, this is not always the case. Indeed, there are more and more couples today that not only look for rocks that have not had anything to do with supporting a conflict in a developing country, but will actually campaign against such wars which usually leave a trail of devastation in their wake.

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Understandably, the last thing a young couple planning to have kids once they are married would want on their conscious is the possibility that the diamond they have on their wedding rings has in some way helped fund a brutal conflict in an African country. Fortunately for such people with good morals and admirable principles, there are plenty of like-minded providers of brilliant cut diamonds and other styles in New Zealand to choose from. In fact, what many people hoping to purchase an ethical diamond will do in order to achieve this is scour the internet for websites providing insightful blogs on the matter. For sure, there are websites that could prove to be extremely useful for couples who although want to buy a stone to be used for their wedding rings, do not wish to purchase anything that could be deemed as unethical.

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Research

As we all live in a world where it is possible to find almost anything we can think of with an online search, there is no wonder that people after an ethical diamond will reach for their smart phone or laptop in order to get their search off to a start. However, because there are so many sites detailing information about how to snap up an ethical rock for our wedding rings, it might not always be clear as to which ones are more reliable sources of information.

When purchasing any of the Diamond.co.nz engagement rings Wellington lovers prefer, one should be on the right track to buying the right kind of stone with regards to ethics. Just by spending a short amount of time going through the different options in beautifully designed wedding rings being sold by this leading New Zealand company, consumers should be convinced they have come to the right place at last.

Couples who would like to learn more about the best ways to source an ethical diamond would be wise to consider the following: 

• Look beyond conflict-free rocks

• Find retailers with social standards initiatives

• Carry out extensive research on conflicts worldwide

• Don’t settle for a donation to a specific charity

• Remember direct activism can help change the industry

Fair Trade
It is probably true to say that lots of companies throughout the world that deal in the sales of diamonds and other precious stones will do all they can to ensure they only buy from companies that are involved in fair trade practices. 

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And couples planning to get married will not just think about where the diamonds they are interested in have come from, but also the fair trade of other goods they may need or want at any particular time. Of course, if we are determined to not have anything hanging over us with regards to the source of the rocks used to create our wedding bands, we will need to make the effort to ensure that we only deal with highly-ethical jewellery firms in New Zealand.

The Top First Aid Kit Essentials You Need to Pack for Your Next Holiday

Are you going to be going away on a winter break this year? Or maybe you are already thinking about where you are going to be jetting off to next summer? As soon as you start to pack you can quickly get carried away with the excitement of going on holiday and forget to pack other essentials. While we all, hopefully, remember our passports and sun cream on our next trip, one thing that many of us are guilty of forgetting about is packing a first aid kit! While this is not the most exciting thing to pack it is vital and you want to have the peace of mind on your holidays that it is there should you, your family or friends really need it.

So, if you are wondering what exactly you need to pack in your first aid kit, make sure to carry on reading for all the advice that you need.

Painkillers
A handy thing to always have in your first aid kit is a few boxes of painkillers and we would recommend taking a few different types such as Ibuprofen and paracetamol. These come in handy when you have a head ache or a minor ache or pain. What’s more, it Is a good idea to pack a few packs of these in your suitcase to take with you as you don’t want to be stung by inflated tourist prices when you are abroad.

Plasters
Next up, in your first aid kit we would recommend that you have a box of plasters. A multipack with lots of different sizes should be enough to help protect against any infection, and we have all been there where we have a new and very uncomfortable pair of sandals that we need help breaking in and in these situations,  plasters can be a lifesaver.

Mosquito Repellent
There is nothing worse than going on holiday and ending up being covered in itchy and horribly mosquito bites every night. To avoid this, you need to buy insect repellents that contain DEET. Apply this more during the evenings as this is when they tend to come out and bite more.

Bandages and Gauze Pads
Another essential item that you need to have in your first aid kit is bandages and gauze pads. You only need a small roll, but this will come in useful If anyone has a more serious cut or wound and will help until they can seek proper medical treatment. You can buy a range of great bandages on MFASCO who offer same day shipment if your holiday is fast approaching and don’t have the time to go out to the store. This website stock lots of different types of bandages including strips, bulk, finger, kids, waterproof and wound closure. 

Hand Sanitiser
Last, but most certainly not least, we have hand sanitiser. This is an essential in your first aid kit no matter whether you are simply heading off somewhere new on holiday for a few weeks or going backpacking. This will sterilise your hands while you are out and about to stop you from picking up any infections.

How to Bring Festive Cheer Into Your Home This Winter

Winter is right around the corner and as the clocks are turning back this weekend, the days are getting shorter and the temperature is dropping. Before you know it, Christmas will be here! Christmas is a favourite holiday for many and there is always much Christmas cheer to be spread around the festive season. If you are planning on setting the winter and Christmas mood in your home very soon, then you have come to the right place. Below, you can check out our top tips as to how you can bring festive cheer into your home this winter season.

Put Christmas Music On
There is one sure fire way that you can bring some festive cheer into your home and that is by blasting your favourite Christmas music. There is nothing like hearing a soundtrack filled with the classic holiday music to put you in an amazing mood and filling your home with festivities. There are plenty of options to do this including buying a Christmas CD, finding a playlist online or finding Christmas music on one of your local radio stations.

Play Christmas Movies
Getting tired of hearing the same Christmas songs? Why not switch things up, pop on the television and have Christmas movies playing in the background. Most television stations will have Christmas classic films playing throughout the winter period and this can really help to set the mood in your home. Some movie channels will even be playing Christmas films all day long, so make sure you watch out for them playing your favourite Christmas films.

Enjoy Christmas Baking
While your Christmas music or films are playing in the background, another brilliant way to add some festive cheer to your home this winter is to fill it with the gorgeous smells of baking. Winter is the perfect time to indulge your sweet tooth and forget about the diet for a few weeks to enjoy all of your favourite baked treats. Gingerbread houses are a staple when it comes to Christmas baking and you can make them pretty easily from scratch. Pop some icing and candy on them and create a sugary roof and pathway. Cookies are another great option over the winter season as they can be enjoyed warm out of the oven. Make a batch on Christmas Eve and have the children decorate them with icing and sprinkles to leave out for Santa. We’re sure he will appreciate it!

Display Your Presents
If you want to enjoy the winter festive period and remove as much stress as possible, make sure you start shopping for your Christmas presents early. As you start buying your presents, wrap them up and pop them under the tree to bring some Christmas spirit into your home. There are lots of amazing wrapping option to choose from now, so why not go all out with gorgeous wrapping paper, bows, tags and ribbon. Presents under the tree will instantly make everyone who comes into your home feel much more Christmassy, however, if you have young children then leaving presents lying around may not be the best idea.

Transform Your Bedroom this Winter
Don’t forget to update your bedroom this winter season! While we tend to focus on creating a warm and cosy environment in our living areas, we can often forget to update our bedrooms too. While many people like the lighter bedding over the summer months, once those colder months hit there is nothing better than updating your bedding with some wintery designs and putting some throws over the top for the ultimate cosy bedroom that you won’t want to leave. If you’re looking for more inspiration, these bedroom transformation tips from Fishpools will give you some great ideas as to how you can make your bedroom cosy for the winter weather.

Put the Fireplace On
If you are lucky enough to have a working fireplace, now is the perfect time to get that fire roaring. This is an easy way to set the tone for a cosy holiday gathering and it will encourage family members and friends to gather around and enjoy some quality time together over the winter period. Add a few festive scented candles to your fireplace and you will have the perfect Christmassy display.

Set the Table
If you don’t often eat at your family dining table, why not set it for Christmas to help transform your home over the winter season. This is super easy to do and all you need is some holiday table runners, festive placemats, glasses, silverware and other fun festive ornaments for the table. This will instantly add some festive feeling to your home.

Spread some festive cheer this winter season by trying out some of our top tips.

What To Wear To A Winter Wedding

When you get invited to a wedding in the summer, choosing an outfit is easy - summer dress & heels! Winter wedding outfits are slightly harder to plan sadly as you’ll need to think about the weather, your shoe choice and much more. Staying stylish is always important and so to help you with this big decision, we have put together some tips on what you can wear to a winter wedding. Keep reading if you are expecting that dreaded winter wedding invite any day now.

Long-Sleeve Dresses
The winter is the perfect time to break out that long-sleeve dress that you haven’t had a chance to wear yet. We love flowery patterns on long-sleeve dresses so make sure to choose one that is going to make an impression. This outfit will keep you warm and look stylish at the same time so make sure to invest in a long-sleeve dress or wear one of your favourite summer ones!

Velvet
As it gets closer to Christmas, more velvet is appearing in our favourite stores and we are loving it. For your next winter wedding, try some velvet as it is warm and looks amazing as it sparkles on you. You could have a velvet dress or even just warm yourself up with a velvet jacket. If you’d like to keep the velvet to a minimum, then maybe just opt for a velvet bag.

A Statement Coat
If you are going to a wedding in the winter, then you are probably going to need to bring a coat. Of course, it is really easy to make your coat the main attraction so why not invest in a nice statement coat? Try a leopard print coat or even a brightly coloured one in contrast to the darker weather. This is great for those weddings where you know that you will probably have to keep your coat on the entire day anyway.

Wear A Suit
Suits are in this season and they look amazing when they are tailored perfectly. Of course, you don’t want to wear your standard business suit to a wedding, but you’ll find plenty of bolder, fitted suits that will look amazing. Make sure to pair your suit with a nice ruffled shirt or blouse underneath to show that this is fancy and not just another day at the office. This look is very chic, and all of the celebs are donning suits over dresses this season.

Ankle Boots
Depending on the location of the winter wedding, you might find that it is way too cold to wear any open-toe shoes. Don’t worry because there is a perfect solution to this – ankle boots! The black ankle boots by Dune will look amazing with almost any winter outfit you wear to this wedding and you’ll feel comfortable and warm throughout the day.

Sequins
If you head to any of your favourite clothing shops this season, you’ll see plenty of sequins on dresses, jackets and bags. This is the perfect season to wear sequins so why not wear them to the next winter wedding that you have been invited to? You’ll love hitting the dancefloor in your sparkly dress or jacket and you’ll impress everyone there.

A Jumpsuit
Another great outfit to wear to a winter wedding is a nice jumpsuit. Many of the jumpsuits that are in shops right now are very flattering and you’ll love how it makes you look. On top of this, you only need to buy one piece and it will keep you warm throughout the day. You might need a matching jacket of course but the jumpsuit will do all of the work in terms of your outfit. Some jumpsuits come with long-sleeves so stay on the lookout this season.

All-Black
Our final tip for those who are looking for something to wear to a winter wedding is to try out an all-black outfit. You’ll find that in the summer, all-black outfits are generally not really worn but, in the winter, you’ll see them all over the place. Pair a nice black lace dress with some ankle boots and a black jacket and you’ll look amazing at the next winter wedding you go to.

Final Thoughts
Choosing an outfit for a winter wedding is never easy as you have a lot of different things to think about. If you want to look amazing at the next wedding you go to, you should make sure to take all of the advice that we have given you in this article on board. When you do, you’ll have the perfect outfit and you won’t be cold throughout the day. go on a shopping trip and buy yourself some amazing new winter pieces and you’ll be ready for any occasion.

4 Steps for Planning an American Road Trip

It is a dream of almost everyone to one day participate in the great American road trip. Whether this is your home country or not, it cannot be denied that there are some impressive landmarks that must be explored at some point during your life!

Unfortunately, the glamorous depiction of road trips is not an accurate one. While there will be some unforgettable moments on your trip, it can also be a stressful experience if you don’t plan well before you set out. Armed with the right tips and some useful advice, you can depart knowing your trip will be one to remember.

1. Make sure your vehicle is safe

First and foremost, you must find out if your vehicle is safe to drive through diverse terrain and across long distances. If you have been experiencing trouble while driving recently, you cannot be sure that your car will last the journey. One of the worst outcomes of taking an unsuitable car with you is breaking down in an unsafe and unfamiliar location. It means you should make all the repairs necessary before you leave. However, some people choose to rent a car during this time, which gives them more space to store their belongings, and more safety when driving over rougher roads.

2. Plan your route
One of the most appealing aspects of a road trip is that you don’t know how long you will be staying in one place before moving onto the next. In some cases, you might not even know where your next stop is! This will seem like a romantic idea at the time, but you may find yourself lost if you don’t plan some of your route. For example, you can choose to plan a rough state-by-state plan, which allows you to decide the specific details as you move along. Luckily, there are a variety of apps which you can use to help you map out your route.

3. Make the most of nature

People from all around the world know about the beauty of the American wilderness, which is one of the main reasons why people set out on road trips. Often, key attractions are what defines the road trip, as there are many dotted around the country that draws people in. Among the most famous are the sparkling blue waters of Lake Tahoe, the rocky coastline of Maine, and the unique red rock structures Zion National Park. When visiting, you should book a hotel near Zion, where you can relax in luxurious surroundings in the heart of the wilderness.

4. Take enough food

Despite only setting out with a car, you will need to spend lots of money on eating as you go drive. It is an essential part of your trip because without the right food and drink, you may struggle to stay focused at the wheel. Though you should always aim to get at least one wholesome, hot meal a day from various locations, you should also make sure to pack lots of food to take with you. Some of this food you can make yourself to ensure the healthiest balance of nutrients, but having infinite amounts of water with you is the most important part.

12 Items You Should Have in Your Fall and Winter Wardrobe

As the seasons change, so do fashion choices. Too many people put away their stylish summer wardrobe and slide into the warm, generic layers, assuming they don’t have any other options. However, nobody said you have to sacrifice your fashion sense while bundling up for the cold. Here are 12 essential items you need for fall and winter. We’ll focus on staples that are as cool as the weather while keeping you comfortable.

The Classic White Button-Down Shirt
A classic white button-down shirt is the foundation of so many clothing styles. You can combine it with denim jeans and flats for that European chic look. Or combine it with your skirt or suit for work. When things get cold, you can pull a lovely sweater over it or put on a wrap-around scarf.

A Plaid Button-Down Shirt
Plaid is possibly the most autumn print out, unless someone out there has an idea for making a pumpkin-spice shirt. Plaid button-down shirts come in an amazing array of color combinations and styles. You can pair them with jeans or work pants. And you could supplement it with a pull-over sweater or wrap-around scarf.

Skinny Jeans
Skinny jeans have a number of benefits when winter hits. Their streamlined silhouette lets you put several layers on top of them for warmth without becoming too bulky. You can wear them with flat heel boots or high heels, a leather jacket or silk drape top. You’ll look great if you wear a long coat or leg warmers over them.

Cashmere Sweaters
Cashmere crewneck sweaters are a chic item you can dress up or down depending on the occasion. This type of sweater readily pairs with a collared shirt underneath it. You could easily pair a wrap-around scarf with it. You really need one of these in addition to the chunky knit sweaters that keep you warm all season long.

Turtleneck Tops
Turtleneck tops are a good alternative to crew neck sweaters. A St-Laurent turtleneck will keep your neck nice and warm. The look can be paired with a sweater (even a crewneck one). You can wear them on their own with jeans or pair it with a sleeveless dress.

Knitted Jumper Dress
A knitted jumper dress is essentially a sweater so long that it counts as a dress, and it is one of the most versatile essentials in your closet regardless of which style you buy. You can find knit jumper dresses that end above the knee, below the knee and almost go down to the ground. Form-fitting and relaxed styles are available. You can wear them with tights or over-the-knee boots to keep your legs warm.

A Fleece Hoodie
Fleece hoodies aren’t for the gym anymore. Fleece hoodies have become a warm, fashionable outerwear. And if you want to take things up a notch, brands like Off-White offer a wide variety of hoodies and sweaters that you can choose from. And you could always layer your hoodie with a Saint Laurent T-shirt and jeans for that extra oomph.

A Statement Coat
A statement coat is the opposite of the classic black or white winter coat. They’re a great way to stand out when wearing a simple or layered outfit. If you don’t know where to start, SSENSE are home to some of the most luxurious designers and offer a variety of statement coats, whether you are looking for a classic wool coat, a designer Chloé trench coat or an off the wall Balenciaga jacket, don’t be afraid to look around and see if you can find one that suits your personal style.

A Leather Jacket
A good leather jacket is a staple for any winter wardrobe. It makes any outfit seem edgy and hip. You can put it on over a T-shirt and jeans for a casual look. Or wear it over a sweater and pants to take your outfit to a new level. If a leather jacket is too much for you, consider getting a cargo jacket instead. These jackets with military style details turn T-shirts and jeans into a chic look.

Blanket Wrap Scarf
A blanket wrap scarf is far more than a standard scarf. These wrap-around scarves are bigger and better in every way. You can throw it over your shoulder or wrap it around your body multiple times. Once you’re inside or things warm up, you can take it off.

Ankle Boots
Ankle boots are a wardrobe staple. They’re versatile and timeless. Ankle boots are an ideal choice for footwear if you’re wearing a dress and a pair of tights. You can also wear them with jeans, and they won’t get in the way of layerable leggings. A side benefit of ankle boots is that they can give your outfit a pop of color even if they can’t see anything else under your long overcoat.

Layerable Leggings
You can’t get through the winter comfortably without layerable leggings. These leggings can keep your legs warm under a skirt. They can be worn under jeans for an extra layer of insulation. Or combine them with a short skirt and sweater or sweater dress.

Fall and winter can be a fashion lover’s delight if you know how to combine your need to keep warm with your desire to look cool. Stock up on these essential items and you’ll be able to achieve the perfect look no matter the weather.

Modern Wedding Trends That You Need to Know About

With 2018 coming to a close, and 2019 soon to begin, now is the perfect time to take a look at the wedding trends that are currently doing the rounds. Whilst there are many wedding traditions that are sticking around for the long-term, there are some new trends emerging that will set your big day apart from the rest. If you’re tying the knot next year, there are plenty of things you need to know and many things that you can do to remain ahead of everyone else.

Although we don’t like to admit it, we all know it’s true – your big day is your time to shine and show your friends and family what you are made of. Weddings can be very competitive, in a friendly way of course, and by being aware of what’s going on in the world, you get to keep a competitive edge. It’s important to make sure that your wedding day is just as exciting and current for your guests as it is for you, and you are not going to achieve this by going with the grain and sticking to old wedding traditions. Whilst some older traditions are welcome, it’s important to embrace the modern wedding trends that we commonly see today.

It can be hard to keep up with what’s going on though, we can appreciate that. Trends are constantly evolving and changing, and what was in this year may not be in next year. With that being said, there are some modern wedding trends and habits which aren’t going to change and are likely to stick around for the foreseeable future, especially as the younger generations start coming of age and tying the knot.

#1: Weddings Taking Place Abroad

It is becoming much more common for couples to head abroad with their wedding parties to destinations such as Greece, the Caribbean, and Italy. Italy is one of the more popular destinations as it is regarded by many as the world’s most romantic country. It is no surprise that thousands of people head out to the home of pizza and pasta each year to get married in some of the world’s most romantic and formidably dramatic landscapes. Whether you want to get married on the Amalfi coast, have a wedding on a yacht or are heading north to tie the knot near a lake beneath the Alps, Italy is a solid choice.

One of Italy’s best wedding destinations is Tuscany, and it is by far one of the most popular, too. Located in central Italy, away from the coast, it is a short distance from Florence and is a stunning destination home to some of the world’s most recognisable Renaissance architecture and art. When you consider the potential for some beautiful wedding photographs in such a location, it is no surprise that wedding parties flock out to Tuscany in their herds each year to participate in some of the world’s best wedding ceremonies. If you are planning on getting married out in Tuscany or want to learn more, you should definitely look into an experienced Tuscany wedding photographer and example would be vittorebuzzi.com who has a range of locations and shots displayed online. The portfolio will give you an idea of what sort of moments the photographer has captured.

Getting married abroad provides you and your wedding party with the opportunity to not only get married, but to spend some time out there and see the country you are in. Although getting married in a church is very nice and special, the younger generations are deciding to skip church-based ceremonies in favour of something more exciting. It’s not surprising either, given that most young people these days openly refer to themselves as non-religious or atheist. Although church-based weddings once did have their place, and they still do, they are no longer the most popular places to get wed.

#2: Copper Furnishings, Violet Flowers and Bitesize Dessert Tables

We all remember how rose gold took the world by storm a couple of years back, but today it’s all about copper. It’s similar to rose gold in that it’s metallic and it is being used in weddings to create a tasteful “rustic” and industrial look. The great thing about copper is that it’s both cheap and very effective, especially when it is reflecting lights from candles. You can get all sorts of copper wares to decorate your wedding venue with, from tea light holders to cups and cutlery, and everything in between.

It is very easy to pair other colours with copper and one that goes very well is violet, and you are in luck because “ultra violet” is a colour that is very much “in” now. Although this colour is subject to change after 2019 – as it does every year – ultra violet flowers and other accents such as table décor and bridesmaid dresses will pair very well if you decide to go with a copper theme.

Whilst your wedding cake will always take centre-stage, we are starting to see smaller bite-size “tapas style” dessert tables hitting wedding venues. Doughnuts, macaroons, and fondant fancies are all starting to appear at weddings and this is news that you are probably happy to learn! This means you can get experimental with the desserts you offer as you are no longer restricted to the typical wedding cake and pick n’ mix arrangement. Cookies, trifles, meringues… what’s not to love about a large selection of desserts at a wedding? It’ll go down a treat with the guests no matter what you decide to go with.

#3: New Food

Forget typical wedding food (how many times has chicken been a part of the main course at all the weddings you’ve been to? Probably most of them!) Modern couples are beginning to embrace new styles of food at their weddings instead of a traditional 3-course set menu. Food vans, pizza ovens and sharing plates are in, and boring pre-determined meals are out. Some people are even offering full on street food options at weddings, and instead of a sit-down meal, they bring their guests outdoors in the blazing sunshine for some tasty food, beer and wine.

The types of cuisine that you can offer when you opt for this new style of wedding food is huge. Mexican, Japanese, Peruvian, Italian, the choice is yours and you are sure to provide offerings that will suit all the tastes and dietary requirements of your guests. What could be better than tacos and beers at a wedding? Not much, and then you’ve got your dessert table ready to be devoured afterwards. If you decide to go for this style of wedding dinner as opposed to the typical 3-course meal, you are sure to be the talk of all your friends.

Although a sit-down meal can be nice, they do get boring when you have been to a few!

Weddings are changing, and it can be hard to keep up with the latest wedding trends. Although some of these trends only stick around for a while, the nature of modern weddings means that there are some changes that are here to stick around for the long run. Younger couples are getting married and their influence is completely changing what we are seeing with weddings. From excursions abroad to street food dinners, there’s a lot you need to know if you plan on throwing something new and fresh.

A Guide On How To Care Of Your Wedding Ring

For a woman, her wedding ring is the most treasured possession of all and therefore, it should be cared for properly. As the ring will be worn all the time, it needs to be cleaned regularly. The prongs, which hold the diamonds or other precious stones in place, should be checked on a regular basis.

If you are about to buy your fiancée a wedding ring, here are some useful tips on taking care of the ring.

 Image Source: Unsplash

Durability - When thinking about wedding rings for women, one should always consider longevity. If you have already purchased the ring, it is hopefully a design that is suitable for everyday wearing, but if you have yet to purchase the ring, you should always bear in mind that this ring will be worn daily and it should therefore be of durable material. Raised stones tend to catch on fabric and the best setting for a diamond wedding ring is one that is not too raised. There are many different ring settings and you should choose one that is durable and not likely to be damaged with normal wear.

Cleaning the Ring - It might be an obvious statement to avoid cleaning a diamond ring over a sink, but some people do and if the cleaning is intense, the chances of a stone popping out make it something that should be done over a bowl or bucket, just in case. The best solution for cleaning a ring is to use warm, soapy water and a baby toothbrush with soft bristles, which will effectively clean the ring without causing the prongs to move. Rinse the ring with water once it has been cleaned and allow it to dry naturally, rather than rubbing it with a cloth.

Regular Inspections - No doubt the wedding ring will contain diamonds and therefore the prongs should be inspected on a regular basis to ensure that the stone(s) are not loose. Imagine her feelings (and yours) if one of the stones popped out. The chances of finding a loose diamond are next to nothing, so make sure the prongs are in good condition and have not loosened. If you would like some further reading on taking care of a wedding ring, there are articles on the topic available online.

Store The Ring In An Appropriate Place - Ideally, a soft jewellery box is the best place to keep a diamond ring, and it should be placed in a separate compartment so it does not come in contact with any other jewellery items. One thing you simply must do is insure the ring, which covers the cost if it is ever lost. You might think that such a valuable item could never be misplaced, but it can come off when swimming or taking part in any outdoor activity and without insurance, you really are taking a chance.

 Image Source: Unsplash

By choosing the right design and following the above advice, your treasured wedding ring should stand the test of time and with regular inspection and cleaning, it will always look its best.

How To Pick The Perfect Dress For Your Bridesmaids

Well, if it is the wedding season at your place, then brace yourself, the wedding preparations list is going to be endless. From deciding the guests list, to choosing the venue theme, curating the decorations and shortlisting the sumptuous menu, there will be a plethora of responsibilities that you will have to take care of. And not to mention, you will have another ‘to-do’ list for your hen do ideas and activities. Let’s not even get there because that will be another saga. If you don’t believe us, try and get a consensus for the hen party destination only and you will know what we are talking about!

Another thing synonymous to weddings is shopping! And trust us, there is nothing more complicated than deciding the wedding gown or as a matter of fact, the perfect dress for your bridesmaids for your big day! Take our suggestion, be done with your personal shopping first and then start finding out the best dress for your best girls.

It is never too easy to select the perfect dress for yourself, let alone when you have to do that for your entire gang. We bring to you a few tips that you should keep in mind before deciding upon the bridesmaids’ dress.

Consider the theme of the wedding
You cannot just barge into a designer store and choose 8-9 dresses of different sizes and think you are done with the shopping for your bridesmaids. No! That is not the way out! When you are on your hunt to find the right dress for your girl gang, make sure you consider your wedding’s theme. Your photographer would want your bridesmaids to be dressed according to the theme and time of the day so you better get the dress right in those aspects. Even though you are thinking of going the ‘mismatched bridesmaid dresses’ route, make sure the dresses fit in one category, even if they are different colours.

To each her own
Not everyone has the same body type and the body shape. Some of your girls will be the athletic type, thin and slender and some may find happiness in gluttony. When you are out buying the dress you would want your bridesmaids to wear, you should know what type of dress will be suitable for all body types. Some may not be comfortable with showing off their legs, some maybe a bit apprehensive with a sweetheart neckline or there maybe some adventurous girls who would not give a second thought before donning even the most revealing outfit! So before you decide upon the dress, make sure you know which dress will be the most suitable for all your girls so that they are not uncomfortable in it.

Colour and complexion
Another very important aspect to consider before finalising the bridesmaids’ dress is the colour of the dress. If you have a dress code decided for your wedding, then it is obvious that your bridesmaids will have to abide by that. But that does not mean everyone will be comfortable with the colour of the theme. When you finally decide the style of the dress, make sure you search out for a few lighter or darker shades of the theme colour so that you can buy the dresses of all shades. This will make it easier for all your girls to wear the dress and carry it with perfect glamour.

Money matters 
Remember weddings are a costly affair, not just for the couple but also for the nearest kin and friends. Your girls will already be paring for the hen party and your wedding present, so make sure that the dress you finally decide upon is not very highly priced. It would be great if you sponsor the dress partially but still keep the price tag in mind. Not only that, you may prefer renting the dresses as well if you do not want any extra financial burden on your girls and yourself!

How To Relax & Unwind At Home

Had a stressful day? It is important that everybody has somewhere that they can go to at home and shut off the outside world to unwind, but even this can be difficult in a busy household. If you struggle to relax and unwind in your house, then it is important that you find ways to change this, as otherwise, it could have detrimental effects on your mood and mental health. In a day and age where people are attached to their smartphones and constantly engaged in something, many people find it difficult to switch off. Read on for advice on how you can relax and unwind at home.

Find A Time & Space
First, you need to find the time where you can be by yourself and switch off. It could be as soon as you get home from work, before dinner, before bed or any time that suits you. You must also find somewhere to relax that is away from distraction, and for most people, this will be in the bedroom, but you could also run a bath and relax here. Tell anyone that you live with that you need some time to yourself to avoid distraction. Do turn off your phone, or even better, leave it in a different room.

Create The Right Atmosphere
You can create the right atmosphere by getting changed into comfortable clothing, dimming the lighting and by lighting a few candles. Candles can be incredibly relaxing and especially perfumed candles with a clean, pure and natural fragrance. Scent is a powerful sense that can help you to unwind and feel completely at ease. Enhance this comforting and sensuous mood further by playing some gentle, relaxing music.

Sit Comfortably
You will then want to get comfortable so find somewhere to sit whether this is in your favourite armchair, on the bed or even on a cushion on the floor. Unless you want to fall asleep, it is generally best to sit rather than to lay down.

Ways To Relax
You will now be in the perfect situation to completely unwind. There are many ways that you could do this from here, including focusing on your breathing, listening to music, meditation, drawing or reading. You can unwind by watching television, but generally, this is more of a distraction, and it is best to avoid electronics and instead focus on yourself.

Take Your Time & Enjoy It
There is no set time for how long you should spend relaxing; some days you may only need a few minutes while other times you may need over an hour. Do not rush yourself and simply listen to your body. When you are feeling relaxed and recharged, you can then continue with your day feeling a lot lighter and fresh.

This guide should help anyone to relax and unwind in the home. It can be a challenge in today’s fast-paced lifestyle, particularly if you live in a large household, but it is vital that everyone is able to find the time and space to enjoy some quiet time to de-stress and recharge their batteries after a hard day.

Trying Something New With Your Look This Autumn

Summer is drawing to a close and autumn is soon to be on its way, but the seasons aren't the only thing that is due a change. Your look could be due one, too, and there’s no better time for you to be trying something new with your style and your beauty than right now!

There are a number of ways for you to change up your appearance this autumn, from giving your wardrobe a freshen up to actually changing the way you look. To see some of the best ways to do so, read on.

Have surgery
There’s long been a preconceived notion floating about in the world of beauty that states fake equals ugly — this is a lie! Being ‘fake’ and having surgery, particularly plastic surgery, is not an ugly thing to do, and if you think it is going to make you feel beautiful, then go for it.

If you do decide to take such a course of action, then make sure that you only ever allow for a reputable and professional surgeon to take the knife to your skin, as not doing so could result in it being irreversibly damaged. Also, should you in fact be the victim of a failed surgical procedure, ensure that you immediately turn to an expert in the field of medical compensation, like The Medical Negligence Experts, as they will fight to get you what you deserve — this will be crucial as you go forward with trying to right the wrongs that have taken place.

Surgery is not a bad thing, but only if you go about it before, during and after, in the right ways.

Change your hairstyle
If you want to go down a far less drastic route in your attempt to try something new with your look, then simply changing your hairstyle could be the best option for you.

To do this, you should be willing to part with your natural hair parting. Doing this is simple, and it will completely reinvent your look through the volume it will add to your style and the different root dimensions it will provide for your face. If you are too in love with your natural hair parting to change it, however, then another option to take is pulling your hair back with a headband.

Reinvent your wardrobe
Autumn is the perfect time to throw out your old clothes and bring in some new attires, so have the courage to do it!

This autumn, it appears animal print is very much in, but not in a trashy kind of way. To stay away from wearing prints that are too much, keep the whole outside pared-down and teamed with flat shoes. If releasing your animalistic side is not something that you want to be doing, then another option is to embrace ‘modesty dressing’.

If you’re bored of your look, then change it. What’s stopping you, a few naysayers? Well, ignore them and look the way you want to this autumn!

Top Tips For Investing In Diamonds

Are you keen to begin your journey of diamond investing? We’ve put together this guide on how to select a diamond for investment purposes.

How to Invest in Diamonds
Investing in a diamond means investing in a physical commodity. So, you can buy them anywhere, even online or get it from http://diamondqueensland.com.au/. Investing in diamonds is a great way to diversify your portfolio.

Finding the Right Diamond
1. Choose the carat or weight
Diamonds weighing between a half and one carat tend to be the wisest choice for investments. This is because they have a proven track record of maintaining their value, and they are significantly lower in cost compared to larger diamonds. This means you can buy more and then sell parts of your investment when you want to.

2. Choose clarity
If your budget allows, choose a diamond with a clarity of between IF or FL. These are the rarest diamonds in the world and just about guarantee a healthy long-term profit. If your budget doesn’t stretch that far, choose a diamond with a clarity of VVS 1.

3. Choose colour
Always try to pick a colourless diamond for investment purposes as they do not lose their appeal. They are measured in an alphabetical system, with Z representing a light hue and D the clearest blue white. You can also visit trusted jewellers as they have an extensive range you can choose from.

4. Choose the certificate
When you buy loose diamonds, they should be certified by a gemmological lab.

5. Choose the shape
Finally, round diamonds are the most common shape traded in the market, which means they will be easier to sell on later on.

A Few More Things to Consider When Investing in Diamonds
Diamonds are usually traded in US dollars. That’s why it is a good idea to sell your diamond when your home currency is performing well against the dollar. If you decide to buy diamonds online, make sure they are delivered in tamper-proof blister packs.

3 Ways to Invest in Diamonds
1. Loose stones
If you’re new to diamond investing, don’t extend beyond your means. Loose diamonds are a practical choice, and you can pick anything from the more affordable 0.5 carat stones to the heftier 1.49 carat stones.

2. Investment packages
If you’re not sure which diamond to choose, premade investment packages may be the choice for you. There are plenty of sensible packages on the market to suit everyone’s budget and requirements.

3. Premium stones
If you’d prefer to keep your risk as low as possible, then pick a premium round-shaped diamond. These gems are a popular choice and only include internally flawless clean stones.

Choosing the right diamonds for your investment portfolio will ensure you not only diversify your portfolio, but that you can also sell for a reasonable profit when you want to.

Making Relaxation an Essential Part of Your Beauty Routine

If you want to stay as youthful and attractive as possible – and who doesn’t – then you need to pay attention to all the external influences that can affect your appearance. You probably know that absorbing high levels of ultraviolet radiation from being in the sun too long can prematurely age your skin, but have you considered the effect that stress, worry and anxiety can have on your body? There aren’t many people who don’t have a fair degree of stress in their lives, and continually feeling under pressure, anxious, or worried can take its toll on your health, and become another cause of premature aging.

Why stress affects your skin
The stress reaction, and its variants like worry and anxiety, result from the brain feeling that you could be in a threatening situation. To prepare your body for the fight or flight response that protects you if you are in physical danger, the brain releases the stress hormones cortisol and adrenaline into your bloodstream. These chemicals heighten your awareness and give you extra strength, speed and response times, which are essential if you need to escape a physical threat. Our lives are not often threatened in this way anymore, but the same chemicals are released even when the threat is psychological rather than physical, so if you are leading a life that exposes you regularly to mental pressures, your system will be subjected to high levels of stress hormones on a chronic basis. This constant exposure leads to biological changes in the body, and results in the cells starting to break down.

Signs of premature aging
If you are experiencing chronic stress your skin will start to suffer, becoming thinner, drier, and more prone to spots and flaws. The spread of wrinkles and lines in the skin is accelerated, leading to crow’s feet around the eyes and grooving of the skin. The musculature beneath the skin also starts to lose its tone, so your skin and flesh begin to sag and lose the firmness of youth and good health. These changes are inevitable as you age, but if they are affecting you in your early and middle years, you’ll find you look older than you are, which is the opposite of what most women strive for.

Beating stress
To tackle chronic stress and prevent the harmful effects, you need to find a method of relaxing and switching off every day. There are a number of different ways of achieving this, so it’s just a question of finding a method that suits you. Try to avoid relying on alcohol or caffeine, which may help in the moment, but which will make things worse in the long run. You could try vaping as an alternative – you can read more here if you aren’t familiar with this activity. Meditation, physical exercise, and enjoying a good book or a movie are the most popular ways of kicking back, or for some people the diversion of extreme sports or learning something new can be effective ways to beat stress.

When you find what works for you, stick with it and make time for it each day, and don’t let stress rob you of your beauty.

Four Fabulous Ways to Celebrate Your Partner’s Birthday

To appreciate life, you need to celebrate it. Celebrate your wins and celebrate your milestones. Celebrate yours and celebrate those of your loved ones. Birthdays might mark another year older, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t celebrate them for all you’ve done in the past year and all you can do in the life you have ahead. Birthdays are also a great excuse to go all out, so on your partner’s upcoming birthday, consider celebrating with any of these four fabulous methods to really mark the occasion.

Surprise Birthday Party
Surprise birthday parties are always fun (so long as your partner likes surprises), which is why getting all of his closest friends together for a birthday bash is always a great idea. The closer the friends they are to your partner, the better. That way you can celebrate with the best of the best, and they can enjoy their night with the people that they love the most in the whole world. Organising the surprise party can actually be a lot of fun. There will be a lot to think about initially, and sneaking around can be difficult, but of course it will be totally worth it. You can make things easier on yourself by organising deliveries for items, and even using a friend or relatives address instead to keep it all a secret. There are birthday cake delivery options, decorations that you can amazon prime elsewhere and even get the venue ready ahead of time so that your partner will be none the wiser. There is a lot of effort that goes into a a surprise birthday party, but their reaction will make it all worthwhile.

Dinner and a Night Out
Another classic is a dinner and a night out. Whether that night out is clubbing, a theater show, or something more exotic or unusual, combining an activity with a delicious meal will always be a winner. Try to stimulate the senses with both activities, so that you and your partner can experience something new together. Choose something they already love, or pick something new for you to try together as a couple.

Learn Something New Together
To bring back the romance to any relationship, you have to constantly surprise each other in little ways. After a while you should know your partner inside and out, and in many ways better than they know themselves, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t more to learn. By trying new things together, you can both learn more about your partner and about yourself, making it a great way to have fun and experience some thrill. Whether this thrill is from a craft course, a new fusion restaurant, or new destination does not matter, just remember to tailor it to your partner’s tastes and interests. You want to introduce them to something new, not something they won’t like.

Go on a Trip
Last but certainly not least, go on a trip! Whether you stay somewhere local and explore your own country, or go abroad does not matter. What matters is that you enjoy learning and experiencing a new place together. Start first by choosing the perfect romantic den in your very own home away from home by looking at vacation home rentals and remember to focus on quality items, meals, and activities to really enjoy yourselves. You shouldn’t race to see as many things as possible at once. Instead, take it slow. The slower you go, the more you can discover together.

Whatever you choose to do on your partner’s birthday, go all out. Birthdays only come by once a year and the more excuses you have to celebrate life and each other, the better.

Have You Ever Wondered Why Men Don’t Wear Engagement Rings?

If you are encouraging equality, you might be a bit disappointed by the fact that men do not wear engagement rings, after all, if a woman must tell the world that she’s taken, why not the guy? Despite the fact that we all know men do not wear engagement rings, not many people know the reasons why, and if you happen to be in the dark about this, here are some of the reasons why you will never see a man wearing an engagement ring.

 

Image by Denny Muller via unsplash

An Insurance Policy
In ancient times, the engagement ring was used as insurance, in case the man reneged on his promise to marry the girl and in those days, a girl’s virginity was considered her most valuable asset and should her fiancée break his promise regarding not having sex before marriage, then the ring would be forfeited. Hence the engagement ring is usually very valuable, which is where diamonds came in. There would also be a dowry, which was a gift to the bride’s family to be traditionally handed over at the wedding ceremony, yet the engagement ring was considered a down payment that could be forfeited in the event the marriage did not go ahead or the man broke his promise not to consummate the marriage until they were officially married.

Damaged Goods
The simple fact that any woman who was not a virgin was considered damaged goods was enough to prompt the girl’s family to require some sort of guarantee and a diamond engagement ring became the fashion after World War II, when the South African diamond company De Beers began an aggressive marketing campaign that would cement a union between diamonds and engagements.

Diamonds are Forever
De Beers, launched a marketing campaign in the 1940s that was to be very successful and this pushed the idea that only diamonds are suitable for an engagement ring – partly due to their very high monetary value – and this trend is still with us today. You’ll be happy to know that men do wear wedding rings and if you would like to view some customised men’s wedding rings in Brisbane, there is a first class jeweller with years of hands-on experience in designing and creating truly unique wedding rings for both parties.

A Changing World
You might think that ancient wedding traditions are set in stone, however, there is a growing number of people (mainly women) who are asking the question, “Why shouldn’t a man also wear an engagement ring?” As trends change over time, so do traditions and when you consider that only 50 years ago, for a man and woman to live together without being married was unheard of, you soon realise how fast things can change.

If you are soon to be getting engaged, there are no laws forbidding your fiancée to wear an engagement ring and if your man is a bit of a trendsetter, find a reputable jeweller who can handcraft a pair of diamond engagement rings for both of you. Otherwise, you will have to be content with him wearing only his wedding band, while you have the pleasure of wearing an exquisite diamond engagement ring that will be the talk of the town.