Even if you've never been a bride before, when it comes to weddings there's typically one major fashion focus of the day: the dress. But, really we've never thought of ourselves as "typical." And, that dress? Well, that's just part of what makes our idea of the perfect wedding look. It's all about the details, and one our favorite go-tos for pretty (and pretty-darn affordable) accessories gets that, too.
Launched today, BaubleBar has kicked off its first venture into the wedding biz with BaubleBar Weddings. And, whether you are the bride, the maid of honor, or just there to sip on bubbly, the site is offering us a bevy of bling to fit practically anyone's approach to wedding-day style.
In honor of the kickoff, BaubleBar has also teamed with Style Me Pretty's Abby Larson (a.k.a. the source of Pinterest wedding-board inspiration) to curate four unique collections that help you personalize your look for the big day, be it yours or someone else's. Jump ahead for a first look at tons of the sparkling, showstopping pieces available now from $30 to $150. And, don't feel limited to wearing them for black-tie only affairs. Everyday ice is highly encouraged if you ask us.
http://www.refinery29.com/2013/10/55113/baublebar-weddings
Thursday, May 25, 2017
Co-stars serving as bridesmaid
Talk about a Pitch Perfect wedding! Stars of the musical-comedy hit Pitch Perfect, Anna Camp and Skylar Astin, are officially married after tying the knot in an über-romantic outdoor wedding. And with another one of their co-stars serving as bridesmaid, there's no denying that this wedding was aca-awesome! (Sorry, we had to...)
After meeting on the set of the 2013 film, the couple began an off-set romance, making fans sing over the too-cute match-up. Then, while the couple was ringing in the New Year on vacation this year, Astin popped the question with a champagne-hued cushion-cut diamond (please excuse us while we swoon...). "He asked. I said YES!!!!" Camp captioned her engagement ring selfie, revealing her lovely new sparkler. And just like with that bridal bling, these two hit all the right notes with their recent California nupitals. Don't believe us? Checkout the below photos for proof!
Camp and Astin wed on the central California coast on Saturday, September 10, according to People. "It's the day of the show, y'all," Camp posted to Instagram before slipping into her Reem Acra wedding dress for her walk down the alfresco aisle. Her gown featured a sweetheart neckline and a ball gown style tulle skirt, accented with lace appliqué. She accessorized the wedding-worthy look with Imagine Vince Camuto heels, Neil Lane bridal jewelry, and — once she and her sweetheart said their vows — a Lorraine Schwartz wedding band. Jealous of her bridal style? You can totally snag Camp's haute heels for your very own wedding day ensemble. Her Imagine Vince Camuto wedge sandals are available for only $150. (Yes, really!)
http://www.brides.com/story/anna-camp-skylar-astin-wedding-photos
After meeting on the set of the 2013 film, the couple began an off-set romance, making fans sing over the too-cute match-up. Then, while the couple was ringing in the New Year on vacation this year, Astin popped the question with a champagne-hued cushion-cut diamond (please excuse us while we swoon...). "He asked. I said YES!!!!" Camp captioned her engagement ring selfie, revealing her lovely new sparkler. And just like with that bridal bling, these two hit all the right notes with their recent California nupitals. Don't believe us? Checkout the below photos for proof!
Camp and Astin wed on the central California coast on Saturday, September 10, according to People. "It's the day of the show, y'all," Camp posted to Instagram before slipping into her Reem Acra wedding dress for her walk down the alfresco aisle. Her gown featured a sweetheart neckline and a ball gown style tulle skirt, accented with lace appliqué. She accessorized the wedding-worthy look with Imagine Vince Camuto heels, Neil Lane bridal jewelry, and — once she and her sweetheart said their vows — a Lorraine Schwartz wedding band. Jealous of her bridal style? You can totally snag Camp's haute heels for your very own wedding day ensemble. Her Imagine Vince Camuto wedge sandals are available for only $150. (Yes, really!)
http://www.brides.com/story/anna-camp-skylar-astin-wedding-photos
Wednesday, May 24, 2017
Golden Tate says marrying Elise Pollard
Super Bowl winner Golden Tate says marrying Elise Pollard was the ultimate touchdown. After a 15-month engagement, the couple finally exchanged vows before 250 guests in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, on March 11.
“I love the passion Elise brings,” the Detroit Lions player, 28, tells The Knot in an exclusive interview. “People can feel her energy a mile away and it makes those who are shy more comfortable immediately. She’s smart, beautiful, kind, and she makes me a better person. The smartest thing I ever did was marry this amazing woman.”
At first, it was tricky locking down a prime wedding date and location. “With Golden in the NFL, we literally had to plan our wedding date around the season,” Pollard recalls. “That lead us to the February and March time frame. We couldn’t risk planning anything during playoffs or up until the Super Bowl, because we didn’t know how it could affect our guests, groomsmen, and of course, the groom.”
http://www.theknotnews.com/golden-tate-elise-pollard-wedding-album-17991
Forced to rely on their imaginations
The nascent field of AR portends a future in which consumers can try on their jewels virtually
One of the biggest hurdles in selling jewelry and watches online is the intangibility of e-commerce. Shoppers can’t touch and try on items, so they’re forced to rely on their imaginations.
But augmented reality (AR)—technology that superimposes graphics and other digitally created content on real-world imagery through a screen (camera, tablet, laptop)—has become a popular way for brands to put the “try-on factor” back into the selling equation online.
Retailers are also using AR to add excitement and expediency to the in-store shopping experience—by experimenting with mirrors, screens, and dressing rooms that create ways for shoppers to play with product.
http://www.jckonline.com/magazine-article/augmented-reality-show/
One of the biggest hurdles in selling jewelry and watches online is the intangibility of e-commerce. Shoppers can’t touch and try on items, so they’re forced to rely on their imaginations.
But augmented reality (AR)—technology that superimposes graphics and other digitally created content on real-world imagery through a screen (camera, tablet, laptop)—has become a popular way for brands to put the “try-on factor” back into the selling equation online.
Retailers are also using AR to add excitement and expediency to the in-store shopping experience—by experimenting with mirrors, screens, and dressing rooms that create ways for shoppers to play with product.
http://www.jckonline.com/magazine-article/augmented-reality-show/
"Bridal Academy" event recently at the Academy Mansion in Manhattan
To debut its newest assortment of Bridal and Fine jewelry, Forevermark Diamonds hosted a luxurious "Bridal Academy" event recently at the Academy Mansion in Manhattan.
Attendees were free to view some of Forevermark's latest sparklers from leading jewelry designers like Jade Trau and Maria Canale. The event, an interactive preview set up as a beautiful English Tea, allowed guests to walk the Mansion's palatial space while indulging in treats and tea-infused beverages.
In addition, a specialty, loose-leaf tea "Mixology" bar was set up where all were free to fill jars full of traditional and exotic teas varieties. Diamond specialists were also on-hand to take guests through some of the new bridal pieces -- a dazzling selection of jewels to take any bride-to-be from an engagement event to the wedding day.
http://www.fashiontimes.com/articles/27229/20160727/top-5-fine-jewelry-pieces-from-the-forevermark-bridal-academy-event.htm
Attendees were free to view some of Forevermark's latest sparklers from leading jewelry designers like Jade Trau and Maria Canale. The event, an interactive preview set up as a beautiful English Tea, allowed guests to walk the Mansion's palatial space while indulging in treats and tea-infused beverages.
In addition, a specialty, loose-leaf tea "Mixology" bar was set up where all were free to fill jars full of traditional and exotic teas varieties. Diamond specialists were also on-hand to take guests through some of the new bridal pieces -- a dazzling selection of jewels to take any bride-to-be from an engagement event to the wedding day.
http://www.fashiontimes.com/articles/27229/20160727/top-5-fine-jewelry-pieces-from-the-forevermark-bridal-academy-event.htm
Pure positive energy and love
What: Emmy Eff Designs sells original handcrafted jewelry. Genuine stones and crystals are handpicked and ethically sourced, says artist Emily Powell. Rings, earrings, bracelets and necklaces are crafted using metalsmithing and precious metal wire wrapping with stone beads and polymer clay.
Who: Powell is an artist at heart, drawing and painting since she was a child. “I started experimenting with jewelry along with learning more about stones and crystals after feeling consistently unfulfilled in my job position at the time.” Inspired by what she was learning, she began experimenting with jewelry and her designs evolved.
What sets this apart: “Anyone who attends one of my events or opens a package from me can feel it: pure positive energy and love,” says Powell. Powell says she donates a portion of the proceeds from some of her products and events to nonprofit organizations.
Why it works: “Each part of my process is important to me, each customer means a lot to me. I try not to take any of it for granted and continue to be blown away and grateful as the business grows and I make new connections.”
Find it: Shop online at www.emmyeffdesigns.com and www.emmyeffdesigns.etsy.com or look for Emmy Eff Designs at jewelry shows, art festivals and pop-ups.
http://www.charlotteobserver.com/living/fashion/article132505419.html
Who: Powell is an artist at heart, drawing and painting since she was a child. “I started experimenting with jewelry along with learning more about stones and crystals after feeling consistently unfulfilled in my job position at the time.” Inspired by what she was learning, she began experimenting with jewelry and her designs evolved.
What sets this apart: “Anyone who attends one of my events or opens a package from me can feel it: pure positive energy and love,” says Powell. Powell says she donates a portion of the proceeds from some of her products and events to nonprofit organizations.
Why it works: “Each part of my process is important to me, each customer means a lot to me. I try not to take any of it for granted and continue to be blown away and grateful as the business grows and I make new connections.”
Find it: Shop online at www.emmyeffdesigns.com and www.emmyeffdesigns.etsy.com or look for Emmy Eff Designs at jewelry shows, art festivals and pop-ups.
http://www.charlotteobserver.com/living/fashion/article132505419.html
Consider shopping for vintage and antique rings
Diamonds may be a girl's best friend, but every girl still needs to pick the stone for her engagement ring wisely. Today we're diving into behind-the-scenes details you didn't know about diamonds and the stores in which they're sold. For example, are those Four C's really that important? How much of a retail markup are we talking about here? And what kinds of sales tactics should buyers be aware of? With help from pros who work in the business, we're laying it all out there for you.
There Isn't a "Diamond Season"
Lawn mowers go on sale in the fall, Christmas trees hit rock bottom prices in early January. But diamonds? They're purchased year 'round, and therefore don't experience much of a price fluctuation.
"Diamonds are commodities, and prices are based on fair market value. This means that there isn't necessarily an optimum time of year to make a purchase," says Tirath Kamdar, a 10-year jewelry business veteran and the CEO of TrueFacet, on online marketplace for pre-owned jewelry. "Savvy consumers can follow the market through Rapaport, but prices don't rise and fall all that drastically. Make the purchase when you're ready and buy what you love."
If you're all about snagging a good deal, consider shopping for vintage and antique rings. Kamdar says these are typically priced lower than buying new, and are beautiful and unique.
The Markup Ranges from 20% to 250%
We'll preface this by saying that every operation has different markup strategies. Still, every store must markup the price, otherwise no profit will be made. We asked a handful of diamond retailers about markup percentages, and their answers varied from as little as 20% (especially for online retailers), to as much as 250%. Most fall somewhere in between a wholesale markup of 100% to 200%, though.
http://www.brides.com/story/everything-to-know-engagement-ring-shopping-diamonds
There Isn't a "Diamond Season"
Lawn mowers go on sale in the fall, Christmas trees hit rock bottom prices in early January. But diamonds? They're purchased year 'round, and therefore don't experience much of a price fluctuation.
"Diamonds are commodities, and prices are based on fair market value. This means that there isn't necessarily an optimum time of year to make a purchase," says Tirath Kamdar, a 10-year jewelry business veteran and the CEO of TrueFacet, on online marketplace for pre-owned jewelry. "Savvy consumers can follow the market through Rapaport, but prices don't rise and fall all that drastically. Make the purchase when you're ready and buy what you love."
If you're all about snagging a good deal, consider shopping for vintage and antique rings. Kamdar says these are typically priced lower than buying new, and are beautiful and unique.
The Markup Ranges from 20% to 250%
We'll preface this by saying that every operation has different markup strategies. Still, every store must markup the price, otherwise no profit will be made. We asked a handful of diamond retailers about markup percentages, and their answers varied from as little as 20% (especially for online retailers), to as much as 250%. Most fall somewhere in between a wholesale markup of 100% to 200%, though.
http://www.brides.com/story/everything-to-know-engagement-ring-shopping-diamonds
Exhibitors ranging from wildly ecstatic to deeply disappointed
With the complexity of issues in the jewelry industry—such as the changing retail environment, consumer spending habits, and fickle and fragile economic recovery—it is no wonder the “Luxury” jewelry trade show in Las Vegas elicited responses from exhibitors ranging from wildly ecstatic to deeply disappointed.
As is typical with these kinds of reports those doing well were happy to speak on the record while those who struggled spoke on the condition of anonymity.
Luxury, held at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center May 31 –June 2, is billed as a preview to “JCK Las Vegas,” the largest jewelry trade show in North America that showcases the breadth of the jewelry industry. Approximately 250 jewelry manufacturers and designers who create high-end jewels and watches exhibit to an invitation-only group of luxury retailers. After the three-day period, Luxury is open to all attendees of JCK Las Vegas, which also is held at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center.
https://www.forbes.com/sites/anthonydemarco/2016/06/08/luxury-jewelry-trade-show-delivers-mixed-results/#739cdeb737d6
As is typical with these kinds of reports those doing well were happy to speak on the record while those who struggled spoke on the condition of anonymity.
Luxury, held at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center May 31 –June 2, is billed as a preview to “JCK Las Vegas,” the largest jewelry trade show in North America that showcases the breadth of the jewelry industry. Approximately 250 jewelry manufacturers and designers who create high-end jewels and watches exhibit to an invitation-only group of luxury retailers. After the three-day period, Luxury is open to all attendees of JCK Las Vegas, which also is held at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center.
https://www.forbes.com/sites/anthonydemarco/2016/06/08/luxury-jewelry-trade-show-delivers-mixed-results/#739cdeb737d6
First started with one shop
When Lanie List wanted to grow her bridal dress shop business, she turned to an unusual route: franchising. The seven-year-old business that first started with one shop in New York City’s West Village, now proudly numbers 12 stores across the country. Three of those stores are owned by List herself, the others by her franchisees whom she has carefully vetted. Lovely Bride isn’t just an ordinary bridal store. The atmosphere is one of beauty and cozy charm from the moment you walk in the door. I personally experienced the effect as a bridesmaid while I dutifully helped a friend try on dresses at the New York City location (now in TriBeCa) in 2015. The aesthetics from store design to dress design cater to millennial brides who are attracted to independent designers. Dress prices average $2,000-$3,000 each and last fall List introduced the first collection designed exclusively for Lovely shops called Louvienne, followed by two other exclusive collections since then.
List says that every store is averaging 20-40 percent growth year-over-year. She self-funded the business and currently has no debt, which she credits to the franchise model. List counts approximately 24 employees; four corporate, and around 20 in her fully-owned shops. List and I met for coffee one morning outside Laughing Man, right next to the Lovely NYC location, and then we popped inside the shop to take a couple of fun photos. Read on to learn how List got started, her thoughts on which businesses make the best franchises, and what to look for in a franchisee.
https://www.forbes.com/sites/juliesygiel/2017/03/31/lanielist/#491c8a75654d
List says that every store is averaging 20-40 percent growth year-over-year. She self-funded the business and currently has no debt, which she credits to the franchise model. List counts approximately 24 employees; four corporate, and around 20 in her fully-owned shops. List and I met for coffee one morning outside Laughing Man, right next to the Lovely NYC location, and then we popped inside the shop to take a couple of fun photos. Read on to learn how List got started, her thoughts on which businesses make the best franchises, and what to look for in a franchisee.
https://www.forbes.com/sites/juliesygiel/2017/03/31/lanielist/#491c8a75654d
Campaigns with the young fashionistas
Meet Instagram’s new power sellers, style influencers who are changing the face of modern marketing
A recent Instagram post from jewelry retailer Bernie Robbins Jewelers showed a young blond woman standing in front of the colorful, whipped meringue–shape domes of St. Basil’s Cathedral in Moscow’s Red Square. The woman’s eyes were closed peacefully to the setting sun, her left arm flung over a shoulder. Gleaming on her wrist was a chunky steel watch. Jewelry brand Gabriel & Co.’s Instagram account (@gabrielandco) was tagged, and the hashtags included #BernieRobbinsJewelers and #BernieRobbins.
The woman was Kristina Smolyar, a social media influencer with 14,000-plus followers, who’s based in Philadelphia—near two of the Somers Point, N.J., retailer’s four locations.
The Instagram post—along with several others on both Smolyar’s and Robbins’ feeds—was the product of a partnership between the retailer and the up-and-coming style influencer. Before teaming up with Smolyar, the store collaborated with Philadelphia style-guy-about-town Ian Michael Crumm, who has more than 300,000 Instagram followers, on posts and even an in-store appearance flagging Crumm’s favorite pieces. Crumm was also the store’s face for the Swiss watch brand Tudor in late 2016, when he posted a series of artsy photos of his wrists strapped with Tudor timepieces.
Harvey Rovinsky, owner of Bernie Robbins, says the campaigns with the young fashionistas have “dramatically increased the reach of what we do. We all know that any kind of an editorial mention is more effective than advertising—and that’s what this comes down to. These are people who are using their network to increase our reach.”
http://www.jckonline.com/magazine-article/agents-of-change/
A recent Instagram post from jewelry retailer Bernie Robbins Jewelers showed a young blond woman standing in front of the colorful, whipped meringue–shape domes of St. Basil’s Cathedral in Moscow’s Red Square. The woman’s eyes were closed peacefully to the setting sun, her left arm flung over a shoulder. Gleaming on her wrist was a chunky steel watch. Jewelry brand Gabriel & Co.’s Instagram account (@gabrielandco) was tagged, and the hashtags included #BernieRobbinsJewelers and #BernieRobbins.
The woman was Kristina Smolyar, a social media influencer with 14,000-plus followers, who’s based in Philadelphia—near two of the Somers Point, N.J., retailer’s four locations.
The Instagram post—along with several others on both Smolyar’s and Robbins’ feeds—was the product of a partnership between the retailer and the up-and-coming style influencer. Before teaming up with Smolyar, the store collaborated with Philadelphia style-guy-about-town Ian Michael Crumm, who has more than 300,000 Instagram followers, on posts and even an in-store appearance flagging Crumm’s favorite pieces. Crumm was also the store’s face for the Swiss watch brand Tudor in late 2016, when he posted a series of artsy photos of his wrists strapped with Tudor timepieces.
Harvey Rovinsky, owner of Bernie Robbins, says the campaigns with the young fashionistas have “dramatically increased the reach of what we do. We all know that any kind of an editorial mention is more effective than advertising—and that’s what this comes down to. These are people who are using their network to increase our reach.”
http://www.jckonline.com/magazine-article/agents-of-change/
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