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What to Wear to a Summer Wedding

June 20, 2008 – 7:09 pm by Jen
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Outdoor summer weddings are absolutely beautiful, but sometimes leave guests wondering what to wear. Here are few helpful hints whether you are clueless or a summer-wedding-expert:

Check the invitation to see what attire is suggested. Sometimes couples will have a wedding website with more detailed information than what would fit on the invitation.
Only an Ultra Formal (or White Tie) wedding after 6pm would require a long gown. Those weddings are very rare (particularly in the summer) so most likely you’ll want a shorter (and cooler) dress.
Stay cool in lighter colors (no black, navy blue, etc.) but try to stay away from white since that is what the bride will be wearing
Never “out-do” the couple getting married. If the bride is wearing a short dress, so should you.
Don’t dress to call attention to yourself, since after all, this isn’t your wedding day. Bright colors are popular in the summer, just remember to tone it down a bit.
Don’t wear heavy makeup or heavy jewelry. You’ll be miserable in the heat. Keep makeup, hairstyles, and jewelry simple and lightweight.
Weddings after 6pm are typically more formal. You can still stay cool with a sleeveless dress or sandals. Consider dressing up a classic summer dress with jewelry or gold/silver strappy sandals.
Even if the invitation says “casual” stay away from jeans or shorts. “Casual” really means your “nicer casual” clothes, not the shorts and tank top you usually wear while hanging by the pool.
Sometimes the temperature can drop when the sun goes down, so consider bringing a lightweight sweater just in case.

No matter what, just keep in mind that you are there to celebrate the marriage of a friend/family member. There’s no need to upstage anyone or stress over looking perfect. Let the bride worry about that!

Click on the pictures below to check out some of my favorite lightweight summer jewelry that would look great at a summer wedding.

House of Reprensatives Passes Mother’s Day Coin Act

June 17, 2008 – 2:34 pm by Jen

The U.S. House of Representatives voted to pass the “Mother’s Day Centennial Commemorative Coin Act” on June 10th, and now the bill is being considered by the Senate. This bill celebrates the Centennial anniversary of Mother’s Day in 2014, and authorizes the United States Mint to produce this special coin.

The best part about this bill is that the proceeds from this commemorative coin will go the National Osteoporosis Foundation and the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation to support osteoporosis and breast cancer research efforts. What a wonderful way to honor all of our Mother’s who have battled osteoporosis and breast cancer!

Want to urge your Senator to pass the Mother’s Day Centennial Commemorative Coin Act? Check out this link on the Susan G. Komen website to contact your legislators in support of this bill.

Read more about the bill at the Examiner.com

Show your support for Breast Cancer Awareness with some of our cute pink ribbon jewelry and accessories, too! Check out some of my favorites below:

Nautical Jewelry: A Summer Staple

June 10, 2008 – 3:35 pm by Jen

Every summer I’m excited to see designers re-inventing nautical style, making this traditional fashion seem new and fresh. Nautical jewelry is more than just a trend, it is really summer staple. Purchasing a couple nautical-themed accessories is easily affordable, since you’ll be able to wear them again and again.

This year’s nautical jewelry features sea life, in addition to the traditional anchors and sailboats. Glamour Gift Guide spotlighted a stunning gold starfish necklace and bracelet combo that is dramatic, but not gaudy.

Looking for nautical clothing to accompany your jewelry? Check out MyFashionLife.com for celeb nautical styles and more.

Click the pictures below to check out some of my favorite nautical necklaces and more.

Beach Wedding Ideas & Tips

June 9, 2008 – 6:27 pm by Jen

One of the summer’s hottest wedding trends is beach weddings. Whether actually located on a beach, or using a beach decor, a beach wedding motif really sets the scene for a relaxing, romantic day or evening.

If you are having a beach motif wedding, here are my top ten tips:

1. Let nature inspire all of your wedding decor, including the cake. Check out this wave and beach motif wedding cake featured in Modern Bride magazine. Just remember to choose an icing that won’t melt as easily, like fondant.

2. Keep the favors simple. Remember no chocolate or anything that could melt if it might be sunny. Try salt water taffy or seashell candles.

3. Check a tide chart when planning your event times. Try www.tidesonline.com for a list of tide time charts. Tides coming in are noisier than tides going out.

4. Keep your guests comfy. As the sun sets, it can really cool down. You could include a note on the invitation reminding guests to bring a sweater/jacket to stay warm. Or provide small throw blankets, just in case.

5. A beach wedding is the perfect excuse to select a comfortable (and often less expensive) wedding dress. Barefoot is a common option, but try adding an anklet to dress it up. Check out some of these Hawaiian style beach wedding dresses.

6. Plan for the unexpected. This is true for every wedding, but when dealing directly with Mother Nature, you definitely want to plan ahead. This will keep your stress level low, too, since you have already planned for all of the “what ifs”.

7. If you don’t want to spend a lot on decor (which you really don’t need to since you already have the perfect backdrop: the beach!), your food selections can really add to the ambiance. Shrimp is very popular, but you’ll also want to have some options for guests that do not prefer seafood. Try selecting a local restaurant that is more familiar with the beach for your catering. Fruits are a refreshing appetizer option.

8. When choosing your hairstyle, keep the humidity in mind. Check out this list of ways to avoid hairstyle problems at your beach wedding.

9. Talk to other Beach Brides. There are numerous resources on the web for you to chat with brides that have already experienced their beach wedding. They might think of something you forgot, or just have some tips to calm your nerves. The Knot also have an excellent resource for planning a beach wedding.

10. Do it your way! Just because everyone else has seashells on the table, you do not have to follow suit. Add a little personality. I’ve heard of calypso themes, clam bake themes, and even mini tiki huts for the tables. The beach is a beautiful backdrop on which you can paint any picture you dream up!

If you are looking for wedding accessories, click the pictures below for my favorite guest books, unity candles, and champagne glasses. Best wishes for an amazing beach wedding!

Join the National Race for the Cure

June 6, 2008 – 11:34 am by Jen

This Saturday, more than 50,000 runners and walkers will participate in the Susan G. Komen National Race for the Cure in Washington, D.C. Even if you can’t make it to the race, you can help by urging your legistlators to make fighting Breast Cancer a high priority.

Every woman deserves the chance to receive treatment for Breast Cancer that could potentially save her life. Depending on if very specific requirements are met, such as the specific location where a woman is screened, a legal loophole in the Breast and Cervical Cancer Prevention and Treatment Act has resulted in many uninsured women not being able afford life saving treatment. The advocates at Susan G. Komen have been working to lobby Congress to pass legislation to ensure that no woman ever has to experience not having access to such care.

Want to help? Click here to email your legislators regarding upcoming legislation that could help provide every woman with the opportunity to receive Breast Cancer treatment.

Natural Summer Styles

June 4, 2008 – 5:20 pm by Jen

Something about summer reminds me of nature and makes me want to dress cool and relaxed. Perhaps it’s all the time I spend in the outdoors with family and friends, and the fact that summers here in Texas are so hot. Luckily for me, and those of you who are feeling the natural spirit as well, natural colors and materials are abundant this summer in clothing, shoes, handbags, and jewelry.

Browns, tans and greens are the most common natural colors. Try pairing these colors with materials that natural too: like jute, wood, and organic cotton. Wood bangles, lightweight organic cotton tees, and jute sandals can all add a natural feel to your wardrobe this summer.

Natural clothing and accessories are also affordable. Check out this article from The F! for a complete natural outfit for under $100.

Click the pictures below to check out some of my favorite natural summer accessories:

Symbolism of Fleur-de-lis

June 3, 2008 – 6:45 pm by Jen

It’s not hard to notice that fleur-de-lis seem to be making their way into just about every fashion item; handbags, clothing, shoes, and jewelry all can be found embellished with this flower. So I was curious about the history and symbolism, and thought I would share some interesting facts that I found.

First, the singular version is spelled fleur-de-lys, while the plural version is spelled fleur-de-lis. According to Wikipedia, the French translation is “lily flower”. It was used in coats of arms, by the French monarchy, and is an enduring symbol of France. It has also been adopted by various scouting organizations and as a religious symbol associated with the Virgin Mary.

One of the most recent uses for fleur-de-lis is to represent the rebuilding and unification of New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina destroyed much of the city.

Additionally, it is a symbol for the Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority.

A fleur-de-lys can really add a touch of class and elegance to any outfit. It is the kind of fashion that anyone can wear, regardless of your age or style preferences. Click on the pictures below to check out some of my favorite fleur-de-lis jewelry:

Red Hot Summer Trends

June 2, 2008 – 9:11 am by Jen

Looking for a fashion trend that will last more than just one season? Keeping up with changing fashion trends is difficult when you are on a budget or short on time to shop. Good news: Red is going to be hot for both summer and fall this year, so you can get ahead of the trend for once.

This classic color can really add a punch of color to any outfit. Check out FocusOnStyle.com for reds on the runway, as well as a great collection of red clothing and accessories.

An inexpensive way to add some red to your wardrobe is with jewelry and accessories. Click the pictures below to check out some of my favorite red jewelry and accessories:

Father’s Day Gifts for the Dad that Has It All

June 1, 2008 – 9:05 am by Jen

If you are struggling to think of a Father’s Day gift this year, consider getting Dad something unique: a personalized gift. Whether it’s a photo, a monogram, or an engraved message, a little personalization can make a memorable gift.

Snapfish has a great selection of photo gifts for Dads. My favorite is the photo apron (shown below), which would be perfect for grilling and holidays.

Another favorite of mine is engraved cuff links, like these photo locket engraved cuff links (shown below). Not only can you personalize these cuff links with Dad’s initials, but you can add two small photos to the inside.

Make your gift personal this Father’s Day with a gift that Dad will cherish forever.

21st Annual National Cancer Survivors Day - June 1st

May 31, 2008 – 8:00 am by Jen

Do you know a cancer survivor? In some way, we have all been impacted or know someone that has been impacted by this life-changing disease. June 1st marks the 21st Annual National Cancer Survivors Day - the perfect time to show a cancer Survivor that you care. It is a celebration of life and a way to show the world that surviving is a possibility - and a reality.

The non-profit National Cancer Survivors Day Foundation supports hundreds of hospitals, support groups, and other cancer-related organizations that host National Cancer Survivors Day events in their communities by providing free guidance, education and networking. You can find an event in your local community or organize your own community event.

Whether or not you attend an event, this is a great time to show a friend or family member that is living with or has survived cancer that you support him or her. Whether you send a note with a small gift, or just give your Survivor a hug, your support can make a difference.

Looking for an inexpensive but meaningful gift for a cancer Survivor? Click the pictures below for some of my favorites:

CharmingChick.com

What to Wear to a Summer Wedding

House of Reprensatives Passes Mother’s Day Coin Act

Nautical Jewelry: A Summer Staple

Beach Wedding Ideas & Tips

Join the National Race for the Cure

Natural Summer Styles

Symbolism of Fleur-de-lis

Red Hot Summer Trends

Father’s Day Gifts for the Dad that Has It All

21st Annual National Cancer Survivors Day - June 1st

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