#antique engagement rings san Francisco

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Personalized Father Day Jewelry Bracelets & Rings

Father’s Day is the perfect time to show your love and appreciation for the most important man in your life. Personalized jewelry, like a personalized dad bracelet or a custom father's day ring, makes for a truly special gift. Whether it’s a bracelet for Father's Day,  or something that commemorates a meaningful moment, personalized pieces elevate your gift to a whole new level. Here’s a guide to personalized Father's Day jewelry, including bracelets and rings, and why they are an ideal choice for the occasion.

Why a Personalized Dad Bracelet is the Perfect Father's Day Gift

A personalized dad bracelet offers a sentimental way to celebrate your father's uniqueness and style. It’s more than just an accessory—it’s a meaningful expression of love. These bracelets can be customized with initials, birthstones, or even special engravings that hold significance to both you and your dad. Whether you opt for a minimalist design or something more intricate, a personalized dad bracelet can be tailored to reflect his personality.

There’s something special about wearing a bracelet that tells a story, and for a father, it could symbolize family bonds or cherished memories. If you want to make it even more personal, consider adding charms such as a father daughter charm bracelet to create a truly unique piece of jewelry.

Styles of Personalized Dad Bracelets

When it comes to selecting the style of the personalized dad bracelet, there are numerous options to suit different tastes:

Leather Bracelets – A stylish, casual option perfect for dads who enjoy a laid-back look.

Metal Bracelets – For those who prefer something more sophisticated, you can opt for sterling silver or gold.

Beaded Bracelets – A great option if you want to incorporate a colorful, yet meaningful design, like his favorite color or the birthstones of his children.

No matter the style, adding a personal engraving or charm will make this gift one he’ll treasure forever.

The Significance of a Personalized Father's Day Ring

A Father’s Day ring is a striking and meaningful gift that he can wear every day. Similar to a personalized dad bracelet, a father's birthstone ring or custom rings for father's day can be engraved with a special message or feature stones representing his children or important family moments. Rings are more than just accessories—they carry a sentimental value that stays with him.

If you’re looking for a more intricate piece, you can consider unique engagement rings San Francisco or even antique engagement rings San Francisco, and get them customized to make the perfect Father’s Day gift. In fact, many people choose wedding bands San Francisco or San Francisco wedding rings to commemorate their partnership with their father or partner, and by adding a personal touch, the piece becomes a lasting tribute to those bonds.

Types of Personalized Father's Day Rings

Birthstone Rings – Incorporate your dad’s birthstone, or the stones representing his children, for a piece that’s truly personal.

Custom Engraving – Add a special message or the names of your dad’s loved ones inside the ring to give it an emotional touch.

Classic Wedding Bands – A more subtle yet meaningful way to honor your father, especially if you select wedding bands San Francisco from top jewelers San Francisco and have them engraved for Father’s Day.

Popular Customization Ideas for Rings

Personalized Fathers Day Gifts Jewelry: Engrave a heartfelt message inside.

Father Daughter Charm Bracelet: Add a small, sentimental charm that symbolizes your unique relationship.

Top Jewelry Stores in San Francisco for Custom Father’s Day Jewelry

Finding the perfect father’s day ring requires visiting the right store. San Francisco jewelers engagement rings and other custom pieces from best jewelry stores San Francisco can provide you with the expert craftsmanship needed to create a one-of-a-kind item. Here are some of the top jewelry stores San Francisco to explore for the perfect Father’s Day gift:

1. Best Jewelry Shops in San Francisco

If you’re looking for a San Francisco jewelry store that offers high-end, luxury jewelry, you should visit some of the best affordable jewelry stores San Francisco to get the best value. These stores are well-known for their wide range of styles, from simple, elegant pieces to intricate, high-end designs.

Some popular stores include:

Top Jewelers in San Francisco: Known for their attention to detail and quality craftsmanship.

Luxury Jewelry San Francisco: These high-end stores provide exquisite designs, perfect for a memorable Father’s Day gift.

Best Gold Jewelry Stores San Francisco: For those who want a classic, timeless gift with a touch of luxury.

2. Top San Francisco Jewelers for Custom Designs

For a truly unique and personalized gift, visiting a San Francisco jewelry store that specializes in custom designs is the way to go. Here, you can work with expert jewelers to create a memorial necklace for dad, or design the perfect personalized fathers day gifts jewelry piece that holds sentimental value.

If you’re unsure about what to choose, don’t hesitate to consult with the professionals at best jewelers San Francisco. They can guide you to the perfect piece for your dad, whether you’re looking for a personalized dad bracelet or fathers day ring that’s customized with personal engravings or special touches like birthstones.

Why Personalized Jewelry is the Best Choice for Father's Day

Personalized jewelry makes a timeless gift, and for Father’s Day, there’s no better way to celebrate the man who means the most to you. Whether you choose a personalized dad bracelet, a father's day ring, or any other customized piece, these gifts are a reflection of your love and appreciation. Furthermore, opting for personalized gifts ensures that your dad receives something truly special, something that no one else can replicate.

By choosing a piece from top jewelry stores San Francisco, you’re also investing in quality craftsmanship, which will make the piece last for many years to come. Whether it's a bracelet for Father’s Day, father's birthstone ring, or even a custom engagement ring San Francisco for your partner as a way to commemorate your family, personalized jewelry stands as a beautiful and lasting expression of love.

Make Father's Day Special with Personalized Jewelry

This Father’s Day, surprise your dad with something that will remind him of his importance in your life every single day. A personalized dad bracelet, father's day ring, or any other customized jewelry piece is the ideal way to show him how much you care. Visit one of the best jewelry stores San Francisco or high-end jewelry stores San Francisco to find the perfect gift that’s as unique as your dad. Whether it’s a father daughter charm bracelet or a custom memorial necklace for dad, personalized Father’s Day jewelry will always be a cherished keepsake.

Get in Touch

Website – https://www.diamonddistrictblock.com/ Mobile - (800) 591-8408 Email - info@diamonddistrictblock.com Address- 99 Wall Street STE#791 New York NY 10005

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San Antonio’s Top Jewelers for Men’s Wedding Bands & Gifts

When it comes to selecting the perfect wedding band or gift for the groom, San Antonio boasts some of the most reputable jewelers in the industry. Whether you are on the hunt for men’s wedding rings San Antonio or a special gift for your significant other, the city's jewelers offer a wide variety of options to meet your needs. This guide explores the best jewelers in San Antonio for men's wedding bands and gifts, ensuring that you make an informed decision.

Why San Antonio Wedding Rings Are the Perfect Choice for Your Special Day

Choosing the right wedding rings is one of the most important decisions in your marriage journey. San Antonio wedding rings are designed with quality craftsmanship and offer a variety of styles to suit every taste. From classic gold to modern titanium, you can find something that fits your unique style. Many San Antonio jewelers also offer custom design options, allowing you to create a wedding band that tells your love story in a meaningful way.

Wide Range of Styles to Choose From

When looking for wedding rings in San Antonio, you’ll be delighted by the vast selection of designs available. Jewelers in the area offer options such as traditional gold, contemporary platinum, and eye-catching diamond-studded bands. Whether you prefer a minimalist design or something more intricate, San Antonio wedding rings come in various finishes to complement your style.

Customization and Personalization

One of the best things about purchasing wedding rings in San Antonio TX is the opportunity for customization. Many local jewelers allow couples to personalize their rings with engraving, birthstones, or unique design elements. This adds a personal touch, making the wedding band not only a symbol of commitment but also a unique piece of art.

Top Jewelers in San Antonio for Men’s Wedding Bands

Finding the perfect men’s wedding bands San Antonio can be an exciting journey, with the city offering several top-notch jewelers known for their exceptional service and quality products. Here are some of the best places to shop for men’s wedding bands in San Antonio:

1. Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry

Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry is a household name in San Antonio, renowned for its wide selection of men’s wedding rings. The jeweler offers a range of designs, from classic gold bands to modern tungsten and carbon fiber rings. Their knowledgeable staff is ready to guide you through the process, ensuring you find the perfect wedding band that complements your style.

2. Daniel’s Jewelers

For those seeking a balance of luxury and affordability, Daniel’s Jewelers is an excellent choice. They offer an impressive selection of men’s wedding bands, including platinum, titanium, and even eco-friendly options. The jewelry store is known for its excellent customer service and commitment to ensuring that every client finds a ring they’ll cherish forever.

3. Sissy’s Log Cabin

Sissy’s Log Cabin is another gem in San Antonio for men’s wedding rings San Antonio. They offer high-quality designer rings and personalized services. Their collection features both timeless and modern styles, perfect for any groom looking to add a special touch to his wedding day. Whether you are drawn to diamond accents or sleek, simple bands, Sissy’s Log Cabin has something for you.

Men’s Wedding Gifts Unique Options for Every Groom

In addition to wedding bands, you may also want to find a meaningful gift for the groom. San Antonio jewelers not only specialize in wedding rings but also offer unique gifts to mark this significant occasion.

Engraved Cufflinks and Accessories

Engraved cufflinks are an excellent way to complement men’s wedding rings San Antonio. These accessories can be customized with initials, a special date, or even a personal message to create a lasting memory. Many jewelers in San Antonio offer high-quality, customizable cufflinks, making them a perfect wedding gift that adds sophistication and sentimentality.

Custom Pocket Watches

For a timeless and elegant gift, a custom pocket watch is a great choice san antonio jewelry store offer high-end watches that can be engraved with a meaningful message or the couple’s initials. A pocket watch is not only functional but also a beautiful keepsake that will remind the groom of his special day for years to come.

Personalized Bracelets and Rings

Men’s wedding rings are often complemented by other jewelry pieces that hold sentimental value. Personalized bracelets or rings are another thoughtful gift idea for the groom. Many jewelers in San Antonio offer a variety of men’s jewelry that can be engraved with special messages, creating a lasting symbol of your love and commitment.

Choosing the Right Metal for Your Men’s Wedding Band in San Antonio

When selecting your men's wedding rings San Antonio, the choice of metal is a crucial factor. San Antonio jewelers offer a wide range of metal options, each with its unique characteristics.

Platinum

Platinum is one of the most popular choices for men’s wedding bands due to its durability and timeless appeal. It’s a hypoallergenic metal, making it ideal for those with sensitive skin. Platinum bands are a great investment, as they retain their shine and quality for many years.

Tungsten

Tungsten is another popular option for men’s wedding bands in San Antonio. Known for its strength and resilience, tungsten rings are incredibly durable and scratch-resistant. It’s a perfect choice for active individuals who want a low-maintenance band that can withstand daily wear.

Titanium

Titanium is a lightweight and corrosion-resistant metal that offers a modern look. It’s a great choice for those who want a wedding band that is both comfortable and stylish. Many San Antonio jewelers offer custom titanium bands that can be personalized to your liking.

Why Choose Wedding Rings San Antonio TX?

San Antonio TX is home to many skilled jewelers who are dedicated to providing exceptional service and high-quality products. Whether you're searching for men’s wedding bands San Antonio or a unique gift for the groom, you can trust the city's jewelers to deliver beautiful, custom-designed pieces that will last a lifetime.

The city’s rich history, combined with a passion for craftsmanship, ensures that couples can find the perfect wedding rings and gifts for their special day. From custom designs to personalized services, San Antonio offers everything you need to celebrate your love.

San Antonio’s top jewelers provide the perfect selection ofmens wedding bands san antonio and gifts, ensuring that every groom finds something unique and special. From classic designs to modern trends, there’s no shortage of options when it comes to choosing men’s wedding bands San Antonio. So whether you’re searching for a wedding band or a gift to commemorate this important milestone, you’ll find exactly what you need in San Antonio TX.

Get in Touch

Website – https://www.diamonddistrictblock.com/ Email - info@diamonddistrictblock.com Address- 99 Wall Street STE#791 New York NY 10005

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Every Proposal on Gilmore Girls Was Absolutely Unhinged

This show was rich in couples, swimming in conflict, and desperately lacking in healthy communication. Which made for some batshit marriage proposals! Let's go:

Christopher to Lorelai in Season 1 ep. 15: Christopher Returns

In Christopher's first appearance on the show, he rocks up to Stars Hollow on his motorcycle at the end of the previous episode, out of the blue, and in this one archetypes are made clear: he establishes himself as the irresponsible deadbeat single dad to Lorelai's hardworking, mature yet still fun single mom. They have a weird dinner with everyone's parents where his parents, Straub and Francine, are shown to be even more uptight and awful than Richard and Emily can be. A lot of fighting and yelling and relitigating past choices ensues. Then Lorelai and Christopher go off to have emotional, nostalgic sex on her childhood balcony, and off the strength of that, he walks into her kitchen the next morning and blurts out that he wants to marry her so they can be a "real family". They barely see each other. They know hardly anything about each other's current lives. This is the first time he's visited the town they've been living in since Rory was a child and yet. A marriage proposal. Naturally, she turns him down, but we have not heard the last of Christopher Hayden.

Max to Lorelai in Season 1 ep. 21: Love, Daisies and Troubadours

This relationship was used mostly to discuss Lorelai's commitment issues, the difficulties of dating as a single mom, and have her fight allegations of her being promiscuous (which are not true, she can be very sexually conservative) by having her do something risky like try to date one of her daughter's teachers at the stuffy private school that also exists in her parents' world. So despite them having okay chemistry, they haven't really dated much and broke up after two months before getting back together shortly before the night of the proposal. Max comes by the house to pick Lorelai up and finds Luke there getting his toolbox and relaying the news that Rachel broke up with him (because she has a basic level of intuition and picked up on his feelings for Lorelai). Max and Luke have a very cringy dick measuring contest, Max (in possession of similar intuition) assumes Luke and Lorelai dated at some point but it's not season 5 yet so she's not legally allowed to admit she's into Luke. They argue, Max expresses frustration that their relationship can never seem to get off the ground, and what does he propose as a solution? Yoking their lives together in blessed matrimony. Lorelai is justifiably frustrated and tells him that's not how you propose, that a proposal is supposed to be special and grand. She lists "a thousand yellow daisies" as an example how to truly pop the question and the next day Max arranges for that famous logistical nightmare romantic gesture at the inn, then says some flowery bullshit on the phone and because it's the season finale and emotions are high, Lorelai accepts. Though later, right after her bachelorette party, she runs away and calls off the wedding. They meet a couple more times for closure, and then the relationship is truly dead.

Jackson to Sookie in Season 2 ep 13: A-Tisket A-Tasket

Sookie and Jackson's budding relationship has actually been pretty nice to watch up until this point. They have a fun balance between awkward but cute flirting and comical bickering about produce. But there's something in the area's water supply that makes people unable to clearly express their wants and needs in a romantic relationship so when Sookie doesn't respond how Jackson wanted her to to him saying his lease was up and asking her what she thought, he sulks. The sulking manifests itself in him not bidding on Sookie's basket at the bid a basket auction so she confronts him to see what's up and they actually manage to have a decent conversation about what moving in together would mean. And that could've been a nice ending for that storyline. But shacking up together? Out of wedlock? Impossible. So at their picnic for two, Jackson fakes Sookie out and says he doesn't want to talk about moving in together any more... because he thinks they should get married. Sookie, reeling from that whiplash, accepts, and since the rules of TV beta couples states they must move faster than the main will-they-won't-they couple at all times, they get married, stay married, and continue struggling to effectively talk through big life decisions,with some admittedly nice moments in between.

Lorelai to Luke in Season 5 ep 22: A House is Not a Home and Season 6 ep 1: New and Improved Lorelai

Lorelai and Luke are in kind of a weird place at the moment, with Luke upset with Lorelai for considering selling the Dragonfly to a corporation owned by one of her father's contacts, which would have her traveling and consulting instead. While she's not too serious about it, she's enjoying being courted by the company, but this is in complete disregard for the giant house Luke bought without telling her or the kids he's thinking about having that he also hasn't discussed with her so it's causing problems. This is forgotten however with the news that Rory wants to take time off from Yale after receiving some rare negative feedback, and that Richard and Emily are letting her stay with them after just telling Lorelai they would help her force Rory back into Yale. So when Lorelai walks into the diner lamenting the fact that Rory is making a decision independent from the vision Lorelai had for her life, and Luke comes forth with a nonsensical plan to, again, force Rory back to Yale, Lorelai is touched that she finally has someone on her side. And since she's a veteran of the season finale marriage proposal, she celebrates having her partner agree with her by asking him to marry her. He accepts in the next season's premiere with no hesitation, but eventually their tendency to hide things from each other to not ruin their relationship.... ruins their relationship. Shocking.

Zack to Lane in Season 6 ep 16: Bridesmaids Revisited

Zack is on a bit of a redemption tour after ruining Hep Alien's showcase in front of a major label by throwing a tantrum about Brian potentially writing a song for Lane. This random burst of jealousy sends him on a power trip that has him throwing out their set list and screaming at his band mates until a fight breaks out and the band and him and Lane split up. But when he sees Lane in the music shop some time later putting up a flier advertising her drumming services to other bands, the thought of her daring to potentially continue living her life without him spurs Zach into action. He convinces Brian and Gil to get the band back together and they're in if Lane's in. And his way of getting Lane back is to walk into Luke's while she's working, go off on some tangent about how he doesn't feel good, and propose in front of a huge crowd of gossipy small town people. Lane must have smacked her head on some antique furniture that day because although she at least stops to ask if he's thought about this, when he presents her with the pawn shop ring he got that "belonged to like an Elk or a Moose or something", she accepts and walks right into marriage and babies land and right out of development that would make sense for her character or be interesting.

Christopher to Lorelai in Season 7 ep. 7: French Twist

Ever since Lorelai walked out of her fraught engagement with Luke and into Christopher's bed, he has taken the reality of a woman coping with feelings of rejection by hooking up with the man she keeps stashed in the background for occasions such as these, and spun it into an elaborate romantic tale of two star crossed loves who waited their whole lives to be together. And when Sherry who, guided by the hands of karma, previously abandoned Gigi leaving Christopher to raise her on his own, writes a letter saying she's totally fine now trust her and wants Gigi to spend a few months with her in Paris, Christopher invites Lorelai along for a big romantic gesture trip. They spend most of it jetlagged, but Christopher remembers he's super rich now (as opposed to just being regular rich like before) and he bribes a restaurant to open early for the two of them. Lorelai, basking in the romance™ of it all, confesses her love, and Christopher pounces on that and starts in on a whole speech. Basically, even though he said he'd be willing to wait for Lorelai to fall in line with his vision, he doesn't feel like waiting any more. Lorelai, sensing where this is going, suggests they wait, as they've only been really dating for a couple of months. She also brings up Rory, figuring she'd want to be up to date and present any big changes. But Christopher waves those perfectly valid concerns away, stresses how long they've known each other, insists that they're meant to be, and fate has brought them together. And then comes out with it and asks her to marry him. Which are very intense words for Lorelai, an emotionally vulnerable woman who just broke off an engagement because her fiancé seemed overly hesitant to actually get married, to hear. We don't see her accept, but there's a scene of them returning home where he calls her "Mrs. Hayden" (as if she would ever change her name), and their marriage immediately began to fall apart like wet tissue paper.

Logan to Rory in Season 7 ep. 21: Unto the Breach

It's the end of Rory's time at Yale, and on the heels of her New York Times fellowship rejection, rejections from other newspapers across the country, and the fact that she rejected her one job offer for better things that did not come, Rory's future is wide open and unstable. On the other hand, Logan is completing his character transformation from irresponsible party animal trust fund kid to hardworking and responsible trust fund kid, accepting a job offer for an internet company in San Francisco. The question emerges: How will the young couple handle this next phase of their lives? And when Logan shows up at Lorelai's house in the previous episode, he comes with a solution. He wants to marry Rory and take her to California, and he wants Lorelai's blessing to propose. She gives it, though not without trepidation, and Logan does propose. In the middle of the graduation party Richard and Emily are throwing for Rory, he gets up in front of everyone and takes out the ring. Rory is caught completely off guard and takes him outside to talk about it, where he reveals that he got the job, picked out a house for them to rent, researched newspapers where she could apply to work, and even planned activities for them to do in their spare time. The original plan being that she would say yes to his proposal without knowing all this and walk blindly into her new, pre-arranged West Coast life. But Rory needs time to process the idea of marrying Logan immediately after college, and on the day of her graduation, she declines. Logan decides if he can't marry her, there's no point in being with her at all, and the two go their separate ways, to eventually meet again in a years long affair, for some reason. Though I barely acknowledge the revival.

Honestly, the only proposal that truly makes sense is Lorelai's to Luke in the revival but I won't discuss it here because a) again, the revival basically doesn't exist to me and b) they should've married during the original run of the show.

[gvbejvmesmichaels]

Task 14: Genderbent

Legal Name: Gabriella Antonia James-Michaels Usually Goes By: Ella Michaels Why: She only kept the James-Michaels because she didn’t want the James name to end with her. She’s never felt as though she was a James or a Conrad. Michaels is the only last name that’s ever felt like hers. Former Names: Gabriella Antonia James (maiden), Gabriella Antonia Conrad (first marriage) Nicknames: Ella (everyone), Briella (Jocelyn) Relationship Status: Married to Jocelyn James-Michaels Past Relationships: Nathan Conrad (ex-husband) Children: Andrew Conrad, Constance Conrad, Arabella James-Michaels (by adoption) Occupation: Professional Tattoo Artist and amateur sculptor. She co-owns a tattoo shop called The Collective with Kaia Johnson where they specialize in Skin Artistry. Higher Education: B.A. in Art History from California State University Los Angeles (prisoner education program), the required certifications to become a professional tattoo artist Tattoos: She honestly doesn’t know how many tattoos she has. She can tell you that all of her tattoos have been done by herself, by Kaia, or by one of the apprentices at The Collective. Her two prized tattoos are 1) her first tattoo she ever did: a crude rendering of her brother’s name on her inner left arm done by stick and poke, 2) the tattoo on her ring finger she talked Joss into giving her. Her wife had been uncomfortable with the idea, and she definitely went too deep in places, but Ella is beyond proud of the shaky Joss printed on her finger. Quirks: Growing up Ella wasn’t allowed to wear pants, which of course means that now she lives in pants and shorts. Ella refuses to wear dresses or skirts. She even wore a fitted pantsuit to her wedding.

Ella James was born and raised in Roswell, New Mexico to extremely conservative parents. Her father was incredibly religious and forced his religious beliefs on his family. He had very strict rules about how Ella was to dress and behave. Her mother was one of those women that wanted nothing more than to be a homemaker. She was more than happy to go along with all her husband’s strict rules because she liked the idea of rules and structure. That was also probably why Ella’s parents only had two children: Ella and her younger brother, George. On the outside, the family appeared to be the American ideal: Husband, wife, and a pair of kids. On the inside, it was hell.

Life in the James household for Ella meant that she was supposed to dress modestly, speak only when spoken to, and only engage in activities that were becoming of women. If her father had it his way, Ella wouldn’t have even gone to school. The only places she was able to go to were school, the family antique shop, and church. So, she took advantage of every opportunity to get out of the house. She signed up for extra art classes, extra home economic classes, and even multiple bible study classes -- anything to get out of the house. Her only saving grace was her little brother, George.

George and Ella were attached at the hip. While Ella’s world outside of the house was art, her brother’s world was aliens. He lived in his own extraterrestrial world, which often brought bullies his way. The worst of the bullies was a boy in Ella’s grade: Nathan Conrad. As much as Nathan harassed George, all it took was a smile from Ella for Nathan to completely forget any bad feelings towards George. It didn’t take long for Ella to figure out that if she dated Nathan, George wouldn’t get picked on any more. As an added perk, her father loved Nathan, which meant Ella was allowed out of the house if she was out on a date with Nathan. So she went with it.

For as long as she could remember, she knew she was a lesbian. She has a very distinct memory of watching Smokey and the Bandit, seeing Sally Fields changing out of her wedding dress in the car and being very jealous of Burt Reynolds. She knew right then and there that she liked girls. The problem was that her family would never accept her sexuality, and she knew it. She’d sat through enough bible study classes to know that her parents believed homosexuality was a sin. So, she knew she needed to play straight until George was out of high school, and they could get out of town. Of course, life had different plans. 

When Ella got pregnant her senior year of high school, she knew she was screwed. Lesbian or not, she knew the only option that didn’t end with her losing custody of her child to her parents would be to marry Nathan. Having a kid at 18 and marrying her high school sweetheart, wasn’t the life she wanted for herself, but it was the life she’d been given. Nathan was very similar to her father so she knew what was expected of her. She was supposed to stay at home and raise their son. It was a miserable life, but it gave her the opportunity to build sculptures as much as she wanted. Besides, as soon as she realized that she was pregnant, she knew there wasn’t anything she wouldn’t do for her son. She’d never loved anyone as much as she loved George, until she gave birth to Drew. 

As much as she hated being a housewife, she absolutely adored being Drew’s mom. She took to motherhood like a duck to water. Being a mom was the only thing that made life worth living. So when she gave birth to her daughter, Connie, her whole life revolved around her kids. Motherhood gave her purpose, but there was still something missing in her life. So, she started going to parties that the women in the neighborhood used to host: Tupperware, Mary Kay, Avon - housewife parties. Or at least, that was the cover. In reality, they were hook-ups for women needing more attention than what they were getting from their husbands. They would mess around with each other, and go back home to their husbands like nothing happened.

Ella’s life went on like that until 2002. It was just any other normal Thursday. She’d been at a party, and wound up falling asleep. It was two in the morning by the time she stumbled home to a horror show. Her ten year old son, Drew, was sitting in the corner, covered in blood. She followed the trail outside where her brother, George, lay in a pool of his own blood. Immediately, she dropped to her knees and checked for a pulse, but he was long gone. By the time she looked around to see what had happened, it was too late. Nathan had called the police, and Ella was sitting there covered in her brother’s blood. No matter what she said, the police refused to believe her, and she was arrested for her brother’s murder.

The truth was that George was helping her get enough money together to leave Nathan. Her husband was just as terrible as her father had been. All Ella wanted was to escape with her children and start over somewhere she could be herself: like San Francisco or New York. Somehow Nathan had found out, and well… staged George’s murder to frame Ella for a crime she didn’t commit. He could have given a shit about the kids; it was controlling Ella’s life that he wanted, and he got his way and then some.

Her trial ended just as quickly as it started. All the evidence pointed to her, and no matter what she said or what her public defender tried to sell, the jury was primarily made up of men -- and all they saw when they looked at her was a killer. She never had a chance.

Once she was in prison, life got worse -- Nathan filed for divorce and full custody of the kids. As soon as it hit her that she was never going to see her kids again, she sort of gave up. She let herself slip away in prison. She took classes to get a degree in art history, and did tattoos on the girls for cigarettes and juicy romance novels. Ella didn’t exactly take life seriously. As far as she was concerned, she was a lost cause that had nothing to live for once she got out of prison. So, she fucked around where she could and lived in her own world.

Then her stupid cousin, Annie, had to get involved. Annie didn’t believe for one second that Ella would have killed her brother. So she did what she did best: she meddled and needled until 1) Ella was transferred from New Mexico to a prison in Los Angeles County closer to Annie, and 2) she found a lawyer who was willing to reopen Ella’s case -- and that was how Ella met Jocelyn Michaels.

Meeting Jocelyn was the last thing Ella had wanted to do, but hell, was she glad that she’d taken the meeting. Jocelyn was hot as hell, the smartest person she’d ever met, and stubborn as all fuck. Once she heard Ella’s story, she was invested and Ella found herself invested in Joss.

Somewhere between working on the case, they fell in love. If Ella was honest with herself, she never stood a chance with Joss; she’d fallen for her that first time they met. Ella was handling her feelings well enough. It wasn’t like she was acting on her feelings towards the other woman. She’d never actually been in love with anyone before; it was all new for her. And then… she managed to piss someone off in prison. She wasn’t sure what she did, but she’d always been real good at running her mouth, especially back then. One minute she was fine, and the next minute, there was a sharpened spoon sticking out of her side.

There’s not much she remembers about getting stabbed, but when she woke up in the hospital, Jocelyn was there. She knew right then and there that she was going to marry that woman one day. In fact, she must have said that part out loud because then Joss was kissing her, and not even two weeks later, they were married. 

The new trial was probably the most terrifying month of Ella’s life. If they lost the trial, if she lost Joss… She didn’t know what she’d do with herself. But by some miracle, Jocelyn was able to win the case and after serving 8 years for a crime she didn’t commit, she was found innocent, and for the first time in her life, she was free. 

Once she was out of prison, there were still a lot of things that needed to be handled and taken care of. As far as she was concerned, the most important thing was getting back custody of her kids. Drew was 18 by the time she was out of prison, but he was a senior in high school -- it didn’t make sense to have him leave New Mexico when he was so close to graduating. And Connie… She was 14 and wanted nothing to do with her mother. Even if Ella had tried for custody, Connie wouldn’t have gone with her. So, she gave both her kids her number and moved to New York with her wife.

Life in New York took getting used to. It was the first time that Ella had the freedom to figure out who she was, and what she wanted to do with her life. The first thing she knew for sure was that she didn’t want to be a housewife again -- that had been awful. So, while her wife settled back into New York like she had never left, Ella took it upon herself to figure out what she wanted to do. At first she was so overwhelmed that everything seemed like it was too much. So, she started taking long walks around Central Park, just enjoying naturing and exploring. That was how she met Zak. 

Zak was going to Central Park for the same reasons as Ella - he was trying to figure out his life. The difference between them, however, was that Zak had recently transitioned from having HIV to AIDS. He was dying, and he was trying to figure out a way to ensure his partner, Kaia, wouldn’t lose their self in his death. Throughout their short friendship, they figured out a solution. Kaia was a tattoo artist who loved creating pieces of artwork that took over their client’s backs. With Ella’s self-taught tattoo skills from prison, it made sense for the two of them to open a tattoo shop together. Sure, Ella still needed certification and training in styles other than stick and poke, but it gave both herself and Kaia a purpose and something to focus on.

Once Ella and Kaia officially opened the Collective, it was like the second half of her life had begun. For the first time, Ella was making friends she wasn’t related to or sharing a cell with. It had taken her a long time, but she’d found herself. She had a career, she had her wife, and she had multiple dogs. Her life was finally coming together, but there was something missing -- something that had been missing from the beginning: her kids.

When he was twenty, Drew moved to New York. He wasn’t sure what he wanted to do in terms of school, but he wanted to be near his mom. Ella was, of course, thrilled. Jocelyn was a little standoffish about the whole thing, but having Drew staying in the guestroom made Ella happy so Joss warmed up to the idea of having at least one of Ella’s kids around. Or so she thought. 

It was around 2013 when Ella’s biological clock started ticking out of control. She wanted a baby, and more importantly, she wanted to have a baby with Joss. If they wanted to have kids with their DNA (in Ella’s head she wanted Drew’s sperm and Joss’s egg), they needed to have a baby now. As much as she begged, and begged, Joss was in the middle of running for DA so it wasn’t a good time to add a baby to their life, but they were 39 so… after many discussions, they froze Ella’s eggs at least. It helped soothe Ella’s ticking clock, but the desire never fully went away.

Instead of a baby, Ella put all her effort into her career and her marriage, but Joss’s career had taken off and her wife typically was swamped with work. Her wife must have realized how unhappy Ella was becoming because when Ella brought up having a baby again in 2017, her wife said they could make an appointment to potentially begin the process of surrogacy. Except… the meeting never happened; not really. Sure, they went, but Joss was so busy with work that nothing ever came of the appointment. So, Ella stewed and flashed back to her first marriage and then, after a particularly bad fight about Joss never being home, Ella left her wife and moved in with Kaia.

As much as she still loved her wife, she’d been unhappy, and if she was honest, she’d jumped from one marriage right into the next, so she did some soul searching. It was during their separation, that Ella refound her first love: clay. There had been a time where she thought she was going to be a world famous artist instead of a tattoo artist that people booked appointments for 6 months in advance. And she’d loved working with clay. So, now that she had free time, she found a local studio and began sculpting again.

After filing for divorce in 2018, Ella got a surprise. Her daughter, Connie, had been living in New York for about a year and had been convicted on a distribution charge. As her daughter’s closest relative and blood relation, she was given custody of her granddaughter, Arabella. Once Bella was put in her arms, Ella knew she was meant to raise Bella -- this was the baby she’d been yearning for. Much like the first time, she took quickly to motherhood, even though it had been decades between children. Unlike the first time, she was a single parent, which was a totally different experience.

By late 2019/early 2020, Ella more or less had her life together. She knew who she was, the shop was flourishing, she had an insane amount of YouTube followers who liked to watch her sculpt, and she finally had the single (grand)mom thing down. It was then that she realized that the one thing that was missing from her life was her ex-wife. The problem was that it looked like Joss had moved on, and yet, Ella still found herself trying to reconnect with her ex-wife. 

Falling back into a relationship with the other woman had almost been too easy. It was like going home again. Working on their relationship and getting back together had been great and fine until they were quarantined together with a two year old, and Ella found out they were still technically married. Joss had never filed the signed petition for divorce. If there was anything that could have fouled up their reunion - it was that. But somehow (and with the help of an annoying marriage counselor via Zoom), they were able to reclaim their marriage.

October 13, 2021 will mark one year of being remarried (okay, vow renewal). Ella has no idea where the time has gone, but she knows two things for absolute certain: one - she’s the person she was always meant to be, and two - she’s married to the  absolute love of her life. Things in her life may have been rough, but those things led her to where she was meant to be, and she wouldn’t have it any other way. She hadn’t suffered through the bad, she never would have been able to appreciate the good.

[jessicalafollette]

Fashion Tips to Ensure You Always Look Stylish

Looking stylish does require a great deal of effort. You need to know the fashion basics in order to look stylish and presentable in front of the crowd. Here are a few fashion tips listed, following which you will surely achieve a fashionable look.

Go By Your Complexion

Choosing the right color palette is very important for dressing for every occasion. Shop for white, black, and gray if you have a cool complexion. If your skin is warm, you should buy brown, olive, and red. Choose colors that complement your skin tone for an easy, effortless look. If you want to make your outfit look stylish, opt for simple, coordinated pieces. A little research can help you find your best style. Visit here to learn more about fashion design.

Use Accessories 

Using accessories wisely can also make you look more stylish. Wearing functional and stylish accessories is an excellent way to enhance your appearance. For example, wearing a belt will help your outfit stand out from the crowd. Using a colorful belt will give your outfit a pop of personality. Adding jewelry can also make you appear more chic. If you want to add a personal touch, consider buying an antique engagement ring. You can always use this jewelry to celebrate a romantic relationship or celebrate your special occasion.

Be Presentable

Another fashion tip to ensure you look stylish is to be presentable. You can do this by keeping your hair clean and hydrated, making sure to keep your nails trimmed neatly, eyebrows in place, and skin moisturized. Moreover, the details that make your outfits complete include the right shoes and socks. Using these accessories can make you look rich and beautiful. 

Choose The Right Color According To The Occasion 

Choosing the right color for you is very important. You should wear dark colors for formal events, while light colors for casual occasions are suitable for a weekend brunch. You can mix and match dark and light blue for a casual dinner with friends. For an evening affair, you can wear a bold-colored dress, but keep the rest of your outfit neutral. You can go for muted colors like blue or gray to avoid clashing too much.

The right color can make or break an outfit. When the colors clash, the outfit looks out of balance and ill-matched. Keeping your balance is the key to ensuring your wardrobe looks stylish. If you are not confident in wearing bright colours, try one color at a time. If you feel overwhelmed, you can look at the color circle to find the right colors for your personality and skin tone.

Avoid Bright Colors To Look More Professional

Consider avoiding bright colors when you're at work and if you have a busy schedule,. The right colors can make your office look more professional and chic while avoiding bright shades will give you a more elegant, sophisticated image. For more help, Alice Wu, an image consultant and personal stylist in San Francisco, offers private styling services to busy professionals. The service emphasizes on personalizing the styling experience for clients, and it also includes closet edits and wardrobe planning.

Use A Color Wheel

The color of your clothes should complement each other. Often, contrasting colors create the best look. For example, an orange skirt with a blue top can make an outfit look classy. Different color combinations can make your outfit look more trendy, while the opposite may be a sexy combination. By using a color wheel, you can easily determine the appropriate colors for your wardrobe.

Wear Contrasting Colors

 Choosing the right color combination is very important. Wear contrasting colors are more likely to look stylish. For example, a blue top and an orange skirt look great together. For an effortless look, try pairing contrasting colors and neutrals. A color wheel is an excellent tool for this. Pick a few pieces from different price ranges for easy colour coordination and play around with them to find what works best.

Invest In Nice Pair Of Shoes

Besides wearing a nice pair of shoes and a great pair of shoes, your wardrobe should be versatile. You should be able to wear the same color for your office and home. Your choice of shoes should be practical and not distracting. Your overall outfit should be elegant and match the rest of your outfit. When working, try to wear comfortable clothes and avoid flashy accessories.

To Sum Up 

Being fashionable is something that everybody wants to be. You, however, need to pay attention to the colors, accessories and other elements that will make you look presentable. Simply follow the suggestions mentioned above, and you could see yourself turning into a fashion icon!

[blogsteveclark12]

12 Things to Buy Used If You Want to Save Money

1) Clothes

Buying used clothes in one of the easiest ways to save money. I’ve found thrift and second-hand stores to be great for finding casual weekend wear and business casual clothes.  

I can’t tell you how many Banana Republic and J. Crew items I see every time I browse the racks. Some people might think that only old, worn, unfashionable clothes are found second-hand but that’s not true.

Related items worth buying second-hand:

Designer clothes and purses – Designer clothes are expensive. Let someone else pay the bulk of the cost by buying them retail first. Then you can save by buying second-hand. Just be sure to read up on the difference between counterfeit and authentic products to ensure you get the real thing.

School uniforms – Some schools that require uniforms (e.g., Catholic schools with plaid skirts), have programs for parents to sell their children’s old uniforms. Many children will outgrow their clothes while they’re still in good condition.

2)  Wedding dresses

Most women wear their wedding dress for one day and maybe only a few hours at that, so it might not make sense to spend a few thousand on a dress.

You can get one for much less than retail if you’re open to wearing a used one. Most sellers are willing to negotiate too because they really want to sell, so negotiations favor the buyer.

Take a good look at the website’s and seller’s return policies before purchasing. Many times there are no refunds.

Ask lots of questions and ask for more pictures if needed. If you can, try on the style in a store first to be sure it’s the one and then buy it second-hand.  

3)  Jewelry

Fine jewelry is another area where resale prices are often much lower than retail. You can even buy an affordable engagement ring second-hand.

If you’re a fan of vintage or antique pieces, you can find beautiful pieces in styles that aren’t even made anymore. Shop at local jewelers, estate sales, and online for the best finds.

4)  Baby items

Babies grow quickly and often outgrow their clothes and toys before they’ve gotten much or any use. I’ve seen lots of children and baby clothes still with tags on them at the thrift stores.

And it’s not just clothes too. Toys like play mats are quickly outgrown too. Check out online parent groups for listings.

5)  Toys & Games

Having stepped into the houses of friends and family with young children recently, I’ve been blown away by the number of toys they have. Livings rooms and bedrooms full of toys, more than the children can reasonably play with. Those toys and games end up as donations to the thrift store or offered at garage sales.

My favorite thing to buy is puzzles, but I’ve seen plenty of games like Operation and Chutes and Ladders on shelves too.

I avoid plush animals because goodness knows what’s on them. Anything that looks in good condition and can be wiped down with sanitizer wipes is fair game

6)  Books & Textbooks

Anyone who has been in school and had to buy their own books knows that textbooks are expensive. I remember having to budget several hundred dollars each semester in college just to be sure I bought all the books I needed.

I bought second-hand where I could, rented, and even borrowed a few. I didn’t matter if a book was a slightly older version as long as I could get the same information and do the homework.

If you need the book in your profession, it might be worth buying a new copy to keep. Otherwise, go second-hand and sell it when you’re done using it.

For other books, try the public library. You can borrow books for free or buy used books there for cheap. I borrow everything and only buy a book when I know I’m going to read it over and over again.

7)  Furniture

If you’ve tried to furnish a home with furniture bought at retail, you know how expensive it can be. Thankfully, some people barely use the furniture they buy.

Maybe they decide to redecorate or they are moving and have to sell. I once came across computer chairs from an office that was closing.

Another easy way to get second-hand furniture is to ask friends and family for whatever extra they have. I’ve always tried to get furniture with fabric like sofas from people I know.

If you’re getting furniture from strangers, take a look at the item and make sure the person’s place is clean. You can’t be too careful about bedbugs and pet dander.

8)  Bicycles

Like with many of the other items on this list, bikes are expensive new and depreciate in value once out the door. Many people buy bikes with the intention to ride them for exercise or fun and don’t use them much at all.

My partner got his used bike on Craigslist and loves it. I got mine as a hand-me-down from family. Unless you’re a serious bike enthusiast, a used one may work just fine for you.

As sad as this sounds, bikes are a major target for thieves in San Francisco. Save yourself the headache of being a more obvious target and having a new bike stolen by getting one that’s second-hand. If you want to save even more money, try biking instead of driving to work or for running errands.

9)  Cars

We’ve all heard that cars depreciate significantly once off the lot and most of all in their first year. Buying a used car makes sense then, especially one that’s been well-maintained. Just make sure to do your research by checking a car’s value and having it inspected before purchasing.

10)  Kitchen items

There are a lot of kitchen gadgets out there that people don’t use. The mixer that was a wedding gift but now sits at the back of the cabinet. Or the blender or crock pot that goes unused. My nearby Goodwill is full of plates and cups. Sometimes are pretty and come in full sets too.

11) Seasonal decorations

Seasonal decorations are just that, seasonal. How much do you want to spend on things that are on display for about 4 months of the year (or packed away for the other 8)? And while decorations are pretty, they don’t do much but sit around the house and look pretty.

So when I want to decorate my place, I shop thrift stores or ask family for items they’ve collected but don’t use anymore. It’s easy to replace decorations yearly too when they cost only a few dollars.

12)  Athletic gear & workout equipment

Many of those items were still in good condition by the time we stopped playing a sport or outgrew the equipment. We’ve also known people with treadmills and stationary bikes that went unused.

Some final tips:

Do your research before purchasing. Sometimes second-hand isn’t cheaper than new.

Negotiate on price. Buying second-hand usually favors the buyer unless it’s a hot item. A potential buyer can always walk away if the price is not right, but a lot of sellers will agree to a lower price because they want to get rid of an item.

If you’re meeting someone in person off Craigslist or a similar site, meet in the daytime in a public place.

The more specific you are about something that you want, the longer you’ll have to wait for it. There may be a lot of black dresses out there, but you’ll have to wait or search more to find a fit-and-flare black dress with a waist tie and lace detail in your exact size.

If a deal is too good to be true, it probably is.

Nowadays, when I come across something I want, my first thought is whether or not it’s available and worth it to buy second-hand. I’m always happy when I do buy something used and it perfectly fits my needs.

I’ve saved hundreds if not thousands of dollars over the years by buying second-hand items. I can’t wait to save more in the future by doing the same and hope you do too! Check out the thrift store in panama City Beach, FL if you want to purchase gently used items.

[justanothercinemaniac]

Epic Movie (Re)Watch #186 - The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement

Spoilers Below

Have I seen it before: Yes

Did I like it then: I think so.

Do I remember it: Better than I did the 1st one, which isn’t saying much.

Did I see it in theaters: No

Format: Blu-ray

I nominated the recap for the first Princess Diaries to @princessofsunnydale because she nominated it for my (Re)Watch so I thought I’d do the same for this post. Thanks!

1) I think it was a wildly smart decision to move the setting of this film from San Francisco to Mia’s often spoke of but rarely seen dominion of Genovia. It’s an organic next step to her story. We saw her learn how to be a princess in San Fran, now we see how she actually adapts to her home country (which is a lively character in its own right). The decision to jump ahead five years ahead instead of three (the number of years between releases) I think also is nice. Mia is more comfortable in the agency she gained in the first film, the relationship with her beau Michael is not hanging over her head, it just allows the film to not be dogged down by some plot points from the first film.

2) Sir Fat Louie? Did they knight him? Can you knight a cat?

3) I didn’t remember this line before I put in the movie but I do now.

4) Shonda Rhimes co-authored the story AND wrote the screenplay? Huh.

(I don’t actually watch any Shonda Rhimes shows, now that I think about it.)

5) Chris Pine as Nicholas.

There is a strong initial chemistry Pine has with lead actress Hathaway, allowing the audience to grow invested in their relationship quickly. Even/especially when they’re not getting long, you can just fell the sexual chemistry in the air between them. It’s fun, making the film stronger because of it.

Chris Pine on his own is as charismatic and interesting as ever. In lesser hands the character of Nicholas could be an even bigger jerk and while there are antagonistic qualities to him the audience UNDERSTANDS his motivations. He is trying to honor what he believes his dead father wanted, he believes he’s trying to do what’s best for Genovia. And when he sees he was mistaken, he tries to step aside. There’s a nice honesty to Pine’s performance. He doesn’t play Nicholas as an over the top mustache twirling villain. All in all, Pine does a fine job in this film and helps support it.

6) Except for one black guy, Genovia’s parliament is made up of all white guys saying they don’t want a woman to rule unless she has a man by her side.

I think Queen Clarisse has the perfect response to that.

The law is severely sexist and antiquated. One of the members of parliament claims it should be respected because it is 300 years old. Saying a law is that old is not an effective argument for it as much as it is AGAINST it. 300 years ago in 2004 that’s 1704. That’s slavery, that’s a fundamental lack of women’s rights across most countries. Don’t use the fact a law is old to argue for it. Laws should evolve as the world does.

7) John Rhys Davies is a wonderful character actor who plays Nicholas’ uncle as a holier than thou elitist arrogant jerk. I love to hate him in this, but I might need to watch Lord of the Rings or Raiders of the Lost Ark next to balance out my feelings.

8) Hey guys. Remember that time Catwoman stomped on Captain Kirk’s foot in front of Gimli and Mary Poppins?

I’m sure someone has made this joke before, but still.

9) The last film was largely about Clarisse putting her duty as queen aside to be Mia’s grandmother, a relationship which is as strong in this film as ever.

Clarisse [after Mia stomped on Nicholas’ foot]: “As a grandma I say right on.”

10) Like the first film, this movie’s biggest flaw is definitely pacing. Many scenes serve no purpose for the larger plot and instead distract from the main conflict. But - like with the first film - these scenes are also some of the most memorable. So…I’m not sure what to say then. I’m just going to move on.

11) I dig this.

Matarazzo is a continued treat in this film as she was in the first, stealing a number of scenes and infusing some quality humor into the plot. The way she mixes with Genovian life and culture can lead to some nice fish out of water observations, and Matarazzo plays the role with as much commitment and heart as she did in the first film. God bless Lily.

12) The bachelor selection scene is - by far - one of my favorite moments in the film. It is directly related to the plot and has an incredible amount of humor to it. Also, it’s not nearly as long as I remember.

For those of you who didn’t watch the clip above (or even if you did), here is my favorite moment from the scene.

(GIFs originally posted by @ezrajamessharkington​)

I mean it’s small, but I appreciate that both this film and its predecessor acknowledge the LGBTQIA+ community more than other Disney films did at the time.

13) Callum Blue as Andrew Jacoby.

Much like Michael from the first film, Andrew is able to be a good guy while avoiding the trope of Nice Guy™. There is a respect he has for Mia, an understanding and a fondness. They clearly have a connection and appreciate each other’s company, but it is clear that neither of them love each other. And Andrew does not force this on Mia. He’s pretty much at her service, ready to respect her wishes without being a total pushover. He’s a good guy, someone who could have easily been a jerk or a bully but the fact Mia could plausibly end up with him just ups the stakes.

14) The fan scene is a nice moment of chemistry between Hathaway and Andrews, which (much like in the preceding film) is one of the strongest elements of this movie.

this film one of those moments is when she is reduced to tears because John Rhys Davies spooked her horse and revealed that - SHOCKER - women actually prefer to not ride side saddle. I suppose it’s better that she’s too hard on herself than not hard enough though, as she will be queen.

16) Damn, Joe is a badass.

Mabrey: “Sir, you will find that the word ‘fear’ is not in my vocabulary.”

Joe: “Perhaps. But it’s in your eyes.”

17) Hey look! The foot pop!

18) Okay, Nicholas is being creepy with Mia at the fountain. Yes, they kiss. But then she says no to him. Multiple times, too. Yet he keeps groping at her and chasing her around the fountain until they both fall in. And MIA’S in trouble?

19) The parade.

By far the strongest moment in the film. It shows off not only the agency Mia gained in the first film (she has the confidence to stop a parade), but also her incredible heart. She shows off such kindness and care for the people of Genovia, accepts her role as a leader, and is able to create a positive change through the sheer depth of her heart. Also, little Abigail Breslin is very cute.

20) Holy crap, Paul Williams is in this movie.

What is this movie?

21) The bridal slumber party is another scene which doesn’t really add to the plot and it goes a little long. BUT - again - it is wildly memorable. Especially seeing Julie Andrews surf on a mattress after giving a wink to her most iconic character.

22) Julie Andrews’ song.

Julie Andrews underwent surgery in 1997 to treat what she referred to as a muscular striation on her vocal cords. She emerged from the surgery with permanent damage that hurt her singing voice and gave a rasp to her speaking voice (for which she sued the hospital for malpractice two years later). Julie Andrews basically lost her singing voice. Her song “Your Crowning Glory” was the first time she sang on screen since the surgery. Although it was set in a limited range to accommodate her voice, she was reported to have nailed it on the first take and brought tears to the eyes of crew members on set. Raven Symoné - who duets with Andrews on the song - was so moved when she told she’d be singing with the legend that she too was reportedly brought to tears. If for no other reason, I am grateful this movie exists for all of that.

23) Nicholas is very ready to step aside and let Mia rule.

Nicholas [after his uncle notes all their work would be for nothing]: “It wouldn’t be nothing. Genovia would in good hands.”

I love that. I love that he’s true to his beliefs about doing what’s right for Genovia, NOT himself.

24) So there’s a slight bit of foreshadowing here.

Nicholas [at Mia’s window]: “Rapunzel, Rapunzel…”

Chris Pine would later go on to play Cinderella’s Prince in the 2014 film adaptation of Into the Woods, which also featured the characters of Rapunzel and her prince.

25) I’m surprised Paolo’s back. I mean, Larry Miller is great. But didn’t he totally betray the trust of the royal family in the first film? And also, why is he suddenly kinda bad at styling Mia?

26) Bless whoever made this

(I just found this on google. If this is your’s and you want credit let me know and I’ll be happy to give it.)

27) Um, guys…

What the heck is Stan Lee doing in The Princess Diaries 2? Is Mia going to join The Avengers? Is Genovia a part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe? What is happening!?

All humor aside, as I understand it Stan Lee will cameo in any movie asked as long as he gets his standard fee. I think he wants to have the record for most cameos ever.

28) I dig it, Andrew.

Andrew [after Mia calls off the wedding]: “Uh…thank you. Thank you for saving me from doing the proper thing for once in my life.”

29) Much like the first film, it is Mia who must take her own fate in her hands. She’s the one who argues against the marriage law, she’s the one who convinces the people and parliament to strike it down (although the Prime Minister is again incredibly supportive and I love that). It’s her taking charge of her life, which I think is absolutely great.

30) I 100% forgot that part of this film ended with Clarisse and Joe getting married. I am very okay with that.

31) OH MY GOD YES! PARLIAMENT IS MORE DIVERSE AT THE END! THERE ARE SO MANY WOMEN AND EVEN WOMEN OF COLOR AND IT’S JUST BEAUTIFUL AND DIVERSE AND I NEED MORE OF IT! THANK YOU!

Like the first film, The Princess Diaries 2 held up surprisingly better than I was expecting. Obviously it’s aimed at a younger audience than me but it was pretty enjoyable. Anne Hathaway is strong as ever, as is Julie Andrews, while Chris Pine is a welcome and fitting addition to the cast. The themes are nicely feminist as is the ending. Overall I just find it an enjoyable film worth the watch.

[shittyxmasromcomzone]

Merry Kissmas

Karissa Lee Staples, Brant Daugherty

They say Henrik Ibsen wrote the same play thrice... and so did Joany Kane. 

Ol Joany proves that assault can still be romantic as long as it happens in a magic elevator. As the screenwriter of A Christmas Kiss, A Christmas Kiss II, and the Hedda Gabler of Christmas kissing, Merry Kissmas, she reminds us yet again that surprise kissing strangers totally works as long as it’s true love. Or as long as it’s an old lady kissing a handsome young man. Then it’s comedy. 

As you can see, I have little patience for this franchise, yet here I am.

The story goes, a young woman is engaged to a shitty RDJ look-alike who’s a ballet choreographer. Then she kisses a hot caterer in an elevator. Then some other stuff happens like we don’t already know how this story ends. The end.

The thing I hate the most about this movie is that it takes place in Palo Alto but they treat Palo Alto like it’s some kind of small town where multiple people would know the crazy old lady who owns an antique store, where the “whole town” would be excited that a former resident has come back home. Listen. I’m from the South Bay you guys. Palo Alto is no quaint small town. It’s a gentrified hellhole full of tech libertarians and designer dogs. It’s the kind of place where hipster food trucks become hipster restaurants that charge $30 for like, lamb sliders. I wish that the true culture of Palo Alto had been preserved in this movie because the spirit of Christmas romcoms is really about rejecting corporate snobbery and finding family, love, and magic, and Palo Alto could totally be the backdrop of that. 

Hey, do you ever get the feeling that someone’s a big Joss Whedon fan?

Christ.

Anyway, this movie was fine. It had some good dogs in it, which usually I wouldn’t question except that the whole dog subplot felt very wedged in and confusing. Also, the magic Santa subplot. And the nutcracker subplot. And the cousin’s romantic interest subplot. In fact, this movie is largely just made up of subplots and I don’t know what the plot-plot was supposed to be. I don’t know what else to say. It was almost like the writer was trying to subvert romcom tropes but it just made the whole thing very unromantic and uninteresting. The alleged chemistry between the romantic leads was more told than shown. I pretty much got halfway through and didn’t want to finish watching it but I did anyway because I already started writing this post and I didn’t want to waste my efforts. 

The moral of the story is, when you like the same chachki, you’re meant to be.

The other moral of the story is, I don’t really have an opinion either way on calling San Francisco “Frisco,” but if you say “Frisco Bay” my ears will fall off. Thank you and goodnight.

Does it pass the Bechdel-Wallace test? YES. Are there characters of color? YES. Are there queer characters? NO. Hotness factor of the lead male: He literally looks like the groom figurine on the top of a wedding cake. Like Cowboy Ken. Strong 8.5/10, if you like that sort of thing.

***2.5 Turtle Doves out of 5 Golden Rings***

[padisjewelry-blog]

Padis Jewelry is proud to be a recognized elite retailer for A.JAFFE, which means we offer a more extensive design selection than other retailers. Meticulously designed and masterfully crafted, A.JAFFE engagement rings can be customized to “represent the woman who wears it.”  The designs of the rings range from vintage to modern, antique to contemporary and are crafted to be admired from every angle. 

A.JAFFE was established in 1892 when A. Abraham Jaffe set up a shop in downtown New York City and was one of the first jewelers to move his business to West 47th Street, which became an epicenter for the international jewelry world. Every master jeweler working for the company has at least ten years’ experience and has been trained in the skills and knowledge passed down through the generations.  Each A.JAFFE ring takes up to 80 hours to create and includes the jeweler’s signature design, “a subtle squaring of the shank to minimize twisting and maximize comfort.” 

All of the diamonds in an A.JAFFE design are mined in countries that fully participate in the Kimberley Process Certification scheme, which is the international system in place to eliminate the trade of "conflict diamonds." Also A.JAFFE jewelry is set in gold that is 100% nickel free to ensure they are hypo-allergenic.  Their 18 karat white gold is alloyed with 40% more palladium than other jewelers to ensure their rings remain bright white for many years to come.

Once you visit our website to browse our A.JAFFE collection, we invite you to come in to one of our three showrooms in downtown San Francisco or our store in St. Helena, CA in Napa Valley.  Jewelry this stunning must be seen in person.  

Since 1974, Padis Jewelry has been a trusted source for buying exquisite certified loose diamonds, engagement rings and fine jewelry. We are one of the only jewelers in the area that offers such an exclusive selection of top names in the industry as well as such a large inventory. If you are a lover of beautiful jewels, please schedule a visit to San Francisco and the Napa Valley’s finest jewelry showrooms.

Source: ajaffe.com/about-us

[businessliveme]

The Guilt-Free Engagement Ring Is Here

(Bloomberg) — When Krish Himmatramka was working as an engineer in the oil industry, he would spend his spare time in his trailer in northern Louisiana scouring the internet for the perfect engagement ring for his girlfriend. But he struggled to find one that was ethically and sustainably produced.

After researching the jewelry industry, he decided to quit his job and start the brand Do Amore, which means “I give with love” in Latin. His girlfriend’s ring—structured with recycled rose gold and an oval diamond from Botswana—was one of the first Do Amore created.

Himmatramka’s rings have an average price of about $3,000 and can be made using natural diamonds or lab-grown ones such as moissanite, an alternative in the crystal family. But what really sets the rings apart, he says, is that proceeds from the purchase of each one contribute to providing water to an underserved area. The company has given almost 8,900 people access to clean water through 25 wells built in Bangladesh, Ethiopia, Haiti, India, and Nepal.

Consumers insisting that their diamonds be conflict-free or ethically mined and sold is nothing new. But brands including Do Amore, Vrai, Brilliant Earth, and Clean Origin feel the need to go further, touting minimal carbon emissions and the use of recycled gold and platinum to appeal to the millennial and Gen Z clients that care about combating climate change.

Three-quarters of millennials say they’d alter their buying habits because of environmental concerns, according to a report from Jefferies Financial Group Inc., while 34% of baby boomers would do the same. But millennials and Gen Z will account for an estimated four-fifths of luxury industry growth in the coming years—and companies are responding.

“Shoppers today really talk about voting with their wallets,” says Kegan Fisher, co-founder of jewelry service Frank Darling. “As I look more to startup brands and new companies that are forming, everyone is thinking about that from the get-go, not as an add-on.”

Doing More

The toll that producing sparkly gems takes on the environment often goes largely unnoticed, but customers are waking up to the reality that beautiful jewelry often has an ugly side. Each metric ton of gold produced last year was responsible for 32,689 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions, according to the World Gold Council. That’s the same amount as burning about 36 million pounds of coal.

A report released in May by Trucost for the Diamond Producers Association found that diamond mining by its members, including Alrosa, De Beers Group, and Rio Tinto, produced 160kg of carbon dioxide per polished carat in 2016. By comparison, the production of a 13-inch Apple MacBook Air contributes 136kg of carbon, according to the report.

The rings from Do Amore are made from recycled gold, palladium, and platinum and are displayed in ring boxes made from jarrah wood, which is grown in forests in New Zealand and Australia through an operations that preserves the biodiversity and soil quality of the local ecosystem.

The company has also signed the No Dirty Gold campaign, which supports groups working to end water and land pollution from gold mining practices.

Do Amore’s prices start at about $800, but the customization options mean they can go for as much as $400,000. The natural diamonds come from Canada, Botswana, South Africa, Namibia, and Russia, while the lab-grown ones are made in the U.S. and India.

An infographic on the company’s website lets customers see exactly which countries they source materials from. For instance, sapphires come from Montana, Sri Lanka, and Thailand.

Sustainable Partners

Efforts to curb the diamond industry’s negative impact are a labor of love for Frank Darling. After years working in 3D printing in the tech industry, Fisher, 34, and her partner Jeff Smith, 38, noticed the lack of transparency and sustainability within diamond jewelry brands.

About a year ago, they launched Frank Darling, with the name inspired by their desire to be “frank” yet offer “darling” gems. Featured prominently in their lineup are lab-grown diamonds that are made using renewable energy from San Francisco-based producer Diamond Foundry. Currently the world’s only zero-carbon-footprint diamond producer, Diamond Foundry has created stones worn by celebrities such as Reese Witherspoon and Laura Dern. The foundry is powered by Washington state’s Columbia River with no emissions or water pollution.

On Frank Darling’s website, interested buyers can take a quiz to receive a free sketch of their dream ring. They can choose from a selection featuring cuts like pear, asscher, and marquise in settings such as halo, solitaire, and eternity band. Prices start at about $1,000 for an engagement ring and increase with the level of customization.

Frank Darling also sells recycled natural diamonds and works with customers who have heirloom stones and want to repurpose them. They’ve even combined antique diamonds with lab-grown gems into a single piece. In addition, the company is committed to using recycled gold whenever possible.

“Gold mining is often overshadowed by diamond mining, but it’s really disruptive to the environment, and there’s no reason we need to be mining new gold,” Fisher says.

The company allows customers to try on mock-ups of their products at home using sterling silver replica rings with 1-carat cubic zirconia stones, which are then sent back to Frank Darling using recycled packaging. All products are made on-demand to prevent waste from excess inventory.

Customer Demand

For Ken Leung, founder of Ken & Dana Design, there was never a question that his operation wouldn’t be eco-friendly. He’s fulfilling the goal by using recycled metals for his engagement rings, offering a wide selection of lab-grown diamonds, and reusing packaging. Leung’s family has been in the jewelry business since the 1970s, and he branched out on his own in 2009 with a line that’s been worn by Beyoncé, Rashida Jones, and Rachel Ray.

A portion of the sale of every engagement ring is donated to Global Witness, an organization that works to break the links between natural resource exploitation, conflict, poverty, corruption, and human-rights abuses. “It seems kind of intuitive. I don’t see myself as doing something that different,” he says about creating rings that give back. “It’s just our duty to do it.”

This sustainability shift could also benefit businesses’ bottom lines. A survey by First Insight Inc. found that 73% of those surveyed would pay more for sustainable items, with the majority willing to pay a 10% price premium.

Young consumers “want sustainable products, they want green companies,” says Gabriella Santaniello, chief executive officer and founder of Aline Partners, a retail research firm. “We see that across the apparel and footwear and other sectors, so it’s not surprising they would want sustainable engagement rings.”

Himmatramka hopes that others looking toward a marriage proposal will take the opportunity to support the Earth in the process. “I realized I wanted to propose with a ring that didn’t just not hurt the world, it helped the world,” he says.

The post The Guilt-Free Engagement Ring Is Here appeared first on Businessliveme.com.

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[san-francisco-jewelry-store]

Father Daughter Charm Bracelets Unique Jewelry in San Francisco

When it comes to special occasions like Father's Day, a father-daughter charm bracelet is a timeless gift that holds sentimental value. In San Francisco, a city known for its exquisite craftsmanship and love for fine jewelry, you’ll find a wide range of options for creating a personalized and meaningful Father's Day jewelry gift. Whether you’re looking for men’s wedding rings San Francisco or a memorial necklace for dad, the right jewelry can help you express your emotions in a truly unique way. This blog explores why a father-daughter charm bracelet from a San Francisco jewelry store is one of the most heartfelt gifts you can give.

The Significance of Father-Daughter Charm Bracelets in San Francisco

Father-daughter relationships are built on love, memories, and shared moments, making them deserving of special recognition. A father-daughter charm bracelet is an ideal way to commemorate the bond between a father and daughter. With each charm representing an important memory or milestone, such as a special birthstone or meaningful symbol, these bracelets capture a bond that words can’t always express.

In a city like San Francisco, where luxury jewelry San Francisco is a staple, the quality and craftsmanship of these bracelets are second to none. From San Francisco wedding rings, the jewelers in this city specialize in creating bespoke pieces that tell a unique story. So why not let your father-daughter bond be a story told in a piece of jewelry that can be cherished forever?

Custom Engagement Rings San Francisco and Personalized Jewelry

If you're looking for a truly unique gift, why not create a custom father-daughter charm bracelet at a San Francisco jewelry store? Many local jewelers offer custom engagement rings San Francisco, allowing you to design something personal that reflects your relationship. Similarly, you can apply the same level of thoughtfulness and creativity when designing a bracelet or other personalized jewelry pieces for Father’s Day.

Whether you’re looking for a personalized dad bracelet or a father’s birthstone ring, a personalized Father’s Day gift jewelry item can be a timeless treasure. A custom bracelet featuring charms with your father’s initials, birthstone, or other meaningful symbols can turn a simple piece of jewelry into a powerful keepsake. Many San Francisco jewelers engagement rings experts will work with you closely to ensure that every detail is perfect for your dad.

Where to Find Unique Father’s Day Jewelry in San Francisco

If you're in search of top jewelers in San Francisco, you’ll find that this vibrant city is home to some of the best jewelry stores, known for their high-quality craftsmanship and exceptional service. Whether you’re on the hunt for high-end jewelry stores San Francisco or best affordable jewelry stores San Francisco, there’s a shop for every budget and taste. Here’s where you can find the most distinctive and heartfelt pieces:

Best Jewelry Stores San Francisco: Explore the curated collections at these top spots, where you can find pieces that range from luxurious antique engagement rings San Francisco to the latest unique engagement rings San Francisco.

Top Jewelry Stores San Francisco: Known for offering a combination of luxury and affordability, these stores can provide you with beautiful wedding bands San Francisco, as well as custom engagement rings San Francisco that reflect your personal taste.

Best Gold Jewelry Stores San Francisco: For those who love the elegance and warmth of gold, these jewelry stores specialize in fine pieces, including personalized bracelets and father’s birthstone rings.

Father’s Day Jewelry Sale – Special Discounts on Custom Bracelets

Looking for a way to make your father-daughter charm bracelet even more special? Consider purchasing it during a Father’s Day jewelry sale. Many San Francisco jewelers offer exclusive discounts around this time, making it the perfect opportunity to find a personalized bracelet for dad or a bracelet for Father’s Day at a reduced price. A Father’s Day ring or memorial necklace for dad can be great options too, allowing you to choose the ideal piece that resonates most with your dad's personality and style.

A personalized fathers day gifts jewelry item, like a charm bracelet with charms that represent important family moments, is something he can wear every day, reminding him of the special bond he shares with you. Plus, many best jewelry shops San Francisco also offer gift wrapping and personalized notes, so you can give your gift with an added touch of love and care.

Why Choose Unique Jewelry for Father's Day

Jewelry is not just an accessory; it’s a way to express your emotions, values, and memories. A father-daughter charm bracelet is not only a beautiful gift but also a deeply sentimental one. It serves as a physical manifestation of the love and connection between a father and his daughter, reminding them of their special relationship.

Unlike other gifts that may lose their value over time, a piece of unique jewelry San Francisco can be treasured for years. Whether you choose a custom engagement ring San Francisco for a significant occasion or men’s fathers day bracelet as a symbol of gratitude, the investment in these pieces is always worth it. Additionally, the best jewelers San Francisco are known for creating heirloom-quality jewelry that can be passed down through generations, making it even more meaningful.

Choosing the Best Jewelry for Your Father-Daughter Bracelet

When selecting a father-daughter charm bracelet, there are several factors to consider. The charms you choose can represent memories, milestones, or family values that you want to commemorate. Here are some ideas for charms that would make a father-daughter charm bracelet truly unique:

Birthstones: Incorporate both your father’s and your own birthstone for a personal touch.

Family Symbols: Consider charms representing family unity, such as hearts, family trees, or initials.

Milestone Charms: Include charms to mark significant events, such as a graduation or special vacation.

By selecting meaningful charms, you can create a bracelet that tells a story only you and your father share. And when you work with San Francisco jewelers, you ensure that the piece will be as high-quality and unique as your bond.

Making Memories with a Father-Daughter Charm Bracelet

A father-daughter charm bracelet from a San Francisco jewelry store is a perfect way to celebrate your relationship with your dad on Father's Day. Whether you’re looking for San Francisco engagement rings, memorial necklaces for dad, or wedding bands San Francisco, the city’s jewelers offer an extensive range of options for all types of personalized and meaningful jewelry. Make this Father’s Day one to remember by giving a gift that your dad can cherish forever, knowing that it was made just for him.

From high-end jewelry stores San Francisco finding the perfect bracelet or ring for your father has never been easier. Choose a piece that speaks to the heart, and let your bond shine through a beautiful, custom-designed jewelry gift.

Get in Touch

Website – https://www.diamonddistrictblock.com/ Mobile - (800) 591-8408 Email - info@diamonddistrictblock.com Address- 99 Wall Street STE#791 New York NY 10005

[wellysuprianto7]

Fresh Wedding Rings San Francisco

Fresh Wedding Rings San Francisco

Fresh Wedding Rings San Francisco – Welcome to help my own website, in this particular occasion We’ll demonstrate in relation to wedding rings san francisco . And today, this is actually the first image.

How about image preceding? is actually that will remarkable? If you think thus, I’l l provide you with a number of graphic once more under:

Unique solitaire Engagement Ring with Pave Wedding…

[cagirljewelry]

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A post shared by California Girl Fine Jewelry (@cagirlfinejewelry)

#diamonds half of these are antique Art Deco engagement rings with old European cut diamonds #antiquejewelry #vintagejewelry #oneofakindjewelry #diamondring #sanfrancisco #santabarbara #beverlyhills #losangeles #LA #lajolla #malibu #millvalley #marin #marincounty #newportbeach #newyork #napavalley #napa #sonoma #healdsburg #winecountry #sonomacounty (at San Francisco, California) https://www.instagram.com/p/BsOXDjrHEEl/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=ghg6sm2hc1ge

[lourdesbandy-blog]

Plants For The Shade.

Blanc de Chine is the title understood in the West for the pure white to lotion Chinese porcelain with its own basic series and also downplayed design, generates not just a sense from calmness, but the excellent antique lamp. If your companion seems to be great to filthy speak, go additionally using it. Say whatever enters your mind, as long as it is actually one thing that merely might Possess you glow. In the end from the film, Under Great White Northern Lights, Meg and http://formwithachille.info Port are actually sitting on a piano seat, and she seems possessing a psychological malfunction. That promoted item is the focus of the write-up and also its own name is actually Coca Cola (KO ). Certainly never kind the generic words Dearest Publisher" when you can easily attend to the editor through title as an alternative. The great white shark, scientific name Carcharodon Carcharias, is one of the best lethal predators in the sea. Considering that I crave it, that is actually hard for me not to eat this. My medical professional pointed out that I possess a food items allergy to this. Yes, I am actually discovering that white breadstuff is actually not good at all for me! Outdoor Metallic name layers need to have even more routine maintenance procedures in comparison to nameplates made use of in interior structures. Log on to Start-a-Foreclosure-Cleanup-business dot com if you desire to find out exactly how to tidy confiscated buildings and also start a beneficial business. West highland white colored terrier are extremely people oriented and could develop splitting up anxiety away from you. For engagement rings additionally, platinum eagle has come to be the third best used product - after white gold and also yellowish gold. The trouble for white bread is the bleaching substances that are made use of, acquire absorbed by flour, at that point the bread that is actually baked. Given that candelabrums ordinarily dangle reasonably higher up in a property or even area, it's often assumed that they can't get as dirty as they would certainly if they put up reduced, deeper to the flooring. We do just what Jesus performed, our team pinpoint just what is troubling our team and after that we contact these facilities straight and also threw them out, in the authorization and the title from Jesus Christ. The Bundeswehr has to deliver signals both internally as well as on the surface that it is not rooted in the tradition from the Wehrmacht," she claimed, describing the World War Two-era title for the German military. Press Reporter Dr Andrew Rochford has offered to examine merely exactly how dirty roaches reside in relationship to a human being and also other traits we have day-to-day exchange. When pressed, that gives extra cleaning service in these areas, to make sure that fewer passes with the device are actually needed to tidy troublesome areas. The personality from Dirty Sally, participated in incredibly through pro actress Jeanette Nolan dominates every setting she's in - certainly the personality will obtain her very own brief resided derivative series. White as well as grey birch trees are among the best to divide, observed by black and also yellow. The outcome was 'The Ultimate Boxer, ' which was actually lastly picked up by Spike TELEVISION just after White consented to purchase the $10 thousand manufacturing expenses himself. At the same time as the White House launched the Really good Federal government label, that additionally chose a phenomenal United States Replacement Chief Modern Technology Police Officer for People Sector Innovation, Chris Vein (previous CIO of San Francisco). An easy way to get yourself a nice retro-sounding title is actually to reflect 10 or Two Decade and uncover an old superhero, Wrestlemania superstar, or animation personality. Allow me provide you an example our experts could all relate to; our team have all eaten in dining establishments that have drab toilets, dirty rug, miss-matched seats and also barstools and also outdated unpainted wall structures. The Pyramid Butterflyfish bears a white pyramid-shaped spot on each side and also brings about its typical name.

[thoughtfuldreamlandwombat-blog]

Blue Nile Diamonds = Troublesome

2 carat diamonds are breath-taking. Our diamonds are created in San Francisco in a foundry that re-creates the best way through which Earth varieties diamond. When I buy diamonds, I actually like the additional insight which is offered by the various reflector scope pictures which are supplied by other on-line diamond vendors like Brian Gavin Diamonds and Excessive Performance Diamonds who depend on the same fingers-on strategy that I relied on when I was the diamond purchaser for Nice Ice.

Holding true to its custom of high quality and design, Andrea Candela is impressed by the sweetness and heritage of Spain. A magnificent assortment of jewellery incorporating sterling silver, 18kt gold, exotic genuine gem stones and high quality quality diamonds proudly carries the Andrea Candela name. Andrea's passion for coloration exhuberates through each hand picked diamond and gemstone chosen completely for his or her quality and hue. With a vast number of rings, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets Andrea Candela continues to go above and beyond customer satisfaction. One other issue that affects a diamonds's apparent coloration is the color of the mounting itself. Yellow gold makes slight amounts of yellow in a diamond much less obvious, while white steel mountings make the colour in yellow diamonds extra apparent. Please word: Featured Diamonds will be returned with no restocking fee (while all other loose stones will incur a 10% restocking fee if returned). That is where Blue Nile's customization comes into play. With more than 70,000 diamonds and a few hundred settings, Blue Nile may also help customers design more than a million different rings. As a result of every diamond and setting is chosen by the client, they can really create the ring they want. Within the traditional jewellery space, customers are forced to choose from the diamonds and settings which are at the moment in the retailer. The consumer isn't encouraged to combine and match diamonds and settings, and due to this fact the options are limited. Or, https://www.altdiamonds.com/the-4cs-of-diamond/ and dimension of inclusions in lab-grown versus natural diamonds. Somerville joined the Diamonds in 1953, he mentioned, when he was an engineer for the Canadian Broadcasting Co. and supplied to become a vocal coach for four aspiring singers who have been lined up for an audition. The journey a diamond takes from rising inside the earth to being purchased as jewellery is long and complex. With out moving into all the precise science behind diamonds, the basic premise is that diamonds require very particular situations to type and grow (kinda like your relationship!). Crater of Diamonds affords park guests a one-of-a-kind experience—the journey of hunting for actual diamonds. You will search over a 37 ½-acre plowed area that's the eroded surface of the world's eighth largest diamond-bearing volcanic crater. If you happen to find a diamond, it's yours to maintain. Diamonds nonetheless signify the celebration of a union and cherished reminiscence, although more cuts make more kinds an easy choice for diamond lovers. If the stone is loose—not mounted on a hoop or setting—place it on its head (the not pointy finish) atop a chunk of newspaper. In case you can read the print at all, the stone's in all probability faux. Actually, in case you look by the top of an actual diamond, its excessive refractive index will forestall you from even seeing the bottom level of the stone (useful for checking mounted diamonds). Similarly, should you place the gem atop a dot drawn on a chunk of plain white paper and it throws a double refraction —such as a ghosted image of the dot—or you'll be able to see a circular reflection within the stone, that rock will not be diamond but possible is moissanite. The most acquainted usage of diamonds immediately is as gems used for adornment —a utilization which dates again into antiquity The dispersion of white gentle into spectral colours is the primary gemological attribute of gem diamonds. In the twentieth century, gemologists have developed methods of grading diamonds and different gemstones primarily based on the characteristics most vital to their value as a gem. Four traits known informally as the "4 Cs" are actually generally used as the fundamental descriptors of diamonds: carat, cut, shade, and readability. This method was developed by Gemological Institute of America in 1953 as internationally recognized normal to guage diamonds characteristics. On this explicit report, Blue Nile is comparing shopping for a diamond on-line to buying a automotive. "In any case, would you pay 72% more for a similar automotive at a unique supplier?" stated Harvey Kanter, Blue Nile President and CEO. What Kanter is failing to say here is that only a few individuals purchase vehicles online simply as very few folks buy diamonds on-line. And, there is a purpose for that. The largest on-line retailer of licensed diamonds and wonderful jewelry, Blue Nile was built on the easy assumption that searching for diamonds shouldn't be a troublesome process. With the suitable data, buying diamonds might be one thing that anyone can do, and making the proper buying decision will be easy. It'll be affordable, too, if you use Blue Nile coupon codes to get the very best worth on the proper present choice.

Celestian, who works on diamonds and jewels, says that 99% of the museum's diamonds are white, as a result of white is essentially the most traditional and likable. "But it surely's not the color diamonds that are not widespread, It is too rare and rare, very difficult to search out. 7. Superior tools can easily distinguish between the 2 types by checking the inclusions and inner composition of the diamonds. Synthetic diamonds have distinct metal inclusions which natural diamonds are devoid of. Nevertheless, artificial diamonds are very difficult to differentiate from natural diamonds without this advanced gear. Contemplate the the colour of the encircling setting when selecting the color of the diamond. It is best to distinction yellow or brown diamonds with a white metallic resembling platinum, titanium or white gold. Yellow gold settings look best with inexperienced, pink, white diamonds. Prices on 20 randomly chosen diamonds averaged inside 5% of one of the best costs we discovered on the most important online diamond worth databases. The GIA grades diamonds on a scale of D (colorless) by Z (gentle colour). All D-Z diamonds are thought-about white, although they contain various degrees of shade. True fancy coloured diamonds (corresponding to yellows, pinks, and blues) are graded on a separate color scale. For the largest on-line selection of licensed diamonds and gem stones, jewelry, and engagement rings, Blue Nile is your vacation spot for all issues sparkly. Mike Douglas and Joe Derise rejoined The Diamonds in 1988. Derise finally died and Mike Douglas (one of many authentic singers from the group's Mercury days) died in the summer of 2013. In reference to Sunday's article within the Studying Eagle, -your-diamond-from-a-mine-or-a-labpercent3F#.WKHbM2cixxI , I agree with Justin in that I'm not totally against lab-grown diamonds, however education is vital. You need to buy an engagement ring online, but which on-line diamond store can actually go the distance: Blue Nile or James Allen? Learn on for a comparability of these 2 prime on-line diamonds retailers. Diamonds fueled civil battle in Sierra Leone within the Nineteen Nineties, when rebels forced civilians to mine the stones and purchased weapons with the proceeds, resulting in the term 'blood diamonds'. As certainly one of few excessive jewellery houses with its own reducing and polishing capabilities, Graff has an obvious advantage in relation to processing rough diamonds in home. But a scarcity of such infrastructure hasn't stopped different firms from attempting: 25-12 months-previous Swiss jeweler de Grisogono not too long ago entered a ground-breaking partnership with Dubai diamond dealer Nemesis International that essentially gives de Grisogono first dibs on whatever the firm mines. Taken all earlier information under consideration, my guess is that the next 6-8 years synthetics will disrupt the business until they modify and accommodate. We'll hear lots of hype and false loopy headlines from the brainless media machine (free example: Fares D. Alahmar's reply to What do you consider Leonardo DiCaprio's investment & comments on artificial diamonds? ), and possibly many journalistic exposés on companies mixing pure with artificial in melee sizes, but the phrase ‘disrupt' right here does not essentially mean a bad influence, but slightly presumably a new alternative to widen diamonds customer base and reach lower social courses. Did you know: Just one in 10,000 diamonds have a elaborate colour, with yellow being the most typical and crimson being the rarest (so rare that solely a handful exists in the world). Fancy lower diamonds are usually minimize into different shapes (apart from spherical) in order to display probably the most intense color. The color can change based on the way it's cut and polished, so cutters will usually sacrifice carat, with a purpose to lower it in a method that offers off essentially the most coloration. The unimaginable, multifaceted assortment of Leibish & Co. fancy shade diamonds is personally hand chosen by our diamond consultants. Each stone must exhibit requirements of the very best caliber of high quality in order to be chosen and displayed on our record and must move a person quality evaluation earlier than we provide them to our esteemed clientele for purchase. Petra Diamonds has recovered a 122.fifty two carat blue diamond at its Cullinan mine, just months after it sold a 29.6 carat blue diamond from the same mine. Blue Nile is an online retailer promoting licensed diamonds, engagement rings and positive jewellery. Treat the one you love to a gift they will really cherish. With Hot Diamonds, yow will discover one thing for each persona, model and development.

[kevinmoyer]

Best Real Weddings of 2017 :: Elegant Urban Wedding at The Chapel SF in San Francisco :: Adrienne & Grace

It’s hard to believe the end of the year is near, but it wouldn’t be December at Snippet & Ink without a round up of all our favorites of 2017. But before we dive into our favorite details, venues, gowns, and bouquets (check back with us next week!), we thought it would be best to highlight our most popular weddings of 2017… starting with this stunning urban wedding in San Francisco by photographer Christina McNeill.

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Today’s feature really goes to show that weddings work out best when you rely on what matters most to you! This couple let their love of music guide their choice of unusual venue, The Chapel SF, which normally hosts rock concerts, not weddings, and in turn inspired their whole day. From concert tickets for guest admission, to romantic moody florals in crimson and blush pink (mirroring the venue’s colors), photographer Christina McNeill was on hand to capture all the meaningful details.  Plus, brides Adrienne & Grace have generously given us their budget breakdown, which you can see right here!

Did you include any traditions in your wedding? Adrienne: I wore a pearl necklace for the ceremony that belonged to my grandmother and now belongs to my aunt Donna. Also, my wedding band was my great grandmothers on my mother’s paternal side. I knew I wanted a very thin gold band to match my engagement ring and was having a tough time finding one the right shade of gold. Turns out we had one in the family that my aunt Laura was kind enough to give me.

Adrienne says, “My gown by Claire Pettibone was crafted from a stunning antique-inspired lace with blue and red embroidery. It had a sheer plunging back, and a long train which added to the drama. I fell in love with it when I first saw a photo of it going down the runway. The color and unique textiles made it exceptional. It was the only dress for me.”

Grace wore a Sarah Seven A-line gown with a pleated lace sweet heart top and silk organza strip skirts with lace pieces cascading down. She says, “I felt very comfortable in the dress right away and loved how it made me feel beautiful.”

How’s this for a meaningful (and fun) keepsake – the venue created ticket stubs for each guest when they arrived, just like they were going to a great concert!

The Ceremony

Why did you choose this location for your ceremony? We wanted a venue that was unique, intimate, romantic, and felt like us. Music is a big part of our lives and before booking the venue we knew we wanted The Dustbowl Revival (an LA-based band) to perform at our wedding. We happened to have seen them perform at The Chapel SF (a music venue attached to a restaurant/bar called The Vestry, that used to be an old mortuary) shortly before we were engaged, and one day it clicked that it would be a great venue for us. They had never done a ceremony and reception with a sit down dinner when we booked them (now they have done several) so we knew it would be a lot of work, but also a lot of fun and we could truly create something that felt unique to us.

What was your ceremony music? Our entrance and exit songs were really great. Entrance was Stringspace’s version of Sweet Disposition by Temper Trap and exit was Rather Be by Jess Glynne.

Tell us about any other traditions you included in your day. After the ceremony, I took off my veil and pearls and put on an amazing German antique tiara that is made out of paper and gilded in gold. Apparently it was traditional for the bride to wear the tiara and then the groom to wear the matching boutonniere, so in our case Grace wore that piece tucked in her hair.

What was your favorite part of the day? Between the ceremony and reception Grace and I walked around the area and went to an iconic San Francisco park, Dolores Park, where we have spent many a hot day with our friends. When we entered the park the place erupted in cheers for us! Hundreds of people got on their feet for us. It was unbelievable. We ended up in the official San Francisco Snapchat story through random peoples’ videos of us (something I don’t understand but my sister tells me is a big deal, haha!) It was a very cool moment. A random guy even came up and took of polaroid that he gave to us, which we loved.

Their photographer, Christina McNeill, says this moment was “truly magical to experience”. And luckily you can see and hear it right here for yourself, in their wedding video!

The Reception

What inspired you when planning your reception? The venue has mostly deep red walls, and rich dark wood tones. I knew we would have to riff off of that and work with it. We used my wedding gown (rich ivory with little pieces of blue and deep red) as well as the venue space to inspire the color scheme, and added light pink and lots of gold.

How would you describe your reception? Intimate, romantic, lush, and authentic. The tables were a dark rich wood, and my mom made fresh white table runners. Atop the runners where most importantly flowers, then lots of candles in gold votives, and the place settings, menus, and place cards. The flowers were a huge part of our décor – we wanted our reception flowers to mimic those in our bouquets. This meant lots of deep reds and greens, with small touches of pale pinks blue and white. And as many candles as we could fit, we had something crazy like 350 gold votives in the reception space! We also had special lighting, to add to the intimate feel.

Did you serve a signature cocktail? We did, Grace’s was a Spicy Margarita; mine was a Riviera Collins.

What was your first dance song? Standing Next To Me by The Dustbowl Revival. We choreographed it together, and we were super proud of the end result. Afterwards, Dustbowl came down into the floor to perform Down By The Riverside, it was so fun and got everyone singing along in a big circle.

What type of cake did you serve? Our desserts were a bit untraditional. We had one small cake for us to cut, a tres leches cake from Tartine. We also got a bunch of other baked goods from Tartine including lemon bars, brownies, and chocolate chip cookies.

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