The Wedding Doc

Celtic Wedding Rings

A fairly new trend in wedding ring design has risen in popularity over the past few years and it’s based on something that is anything but new. Celtic wedding rings, wedding bands and engagement rings that are designed featuring classic Celtic knot work are adorning more and more matrimonial fingers than ever before, perhaps since the days of the Celts themselves. At one time these rings could only be special ordered from specific companies and were very costly. Today, however, with the rise in popularity of ancient Celtic design, many jewelers are carrying Celtic wedding rings and jewelry of all kinds on a regular basis.

The best and most beautiful Celtic wedding rings still come from companies that design the jewelry and do all the work themselves. Special intricate designs can be custom ordered and there are companies that will work your initials into a unique Celtic design for your wedding band… Purchasing your wedding rings from one of these companies can result in your having a true one of a kind ring that is completely unique to you. If you love the Celtic look but want to spend a bit less, however, you can simply go to your closest jeweler and find a Celtic wedding ring that suits your tastes. The method you use is entirely up to you.

Celtic wedding rings take their laced designs from the patterns of the ancient Celts, European peoples in the areas of England and Ireland in the last few hundred years B.C. At one time the Celtic civilization stretched across most of Europe, but it is from Ireland that most of the Celtic traditions and designs have been gleaned. Celtic wedding rings incorporate the most recognizable of Celtic designs, the interwoven lacework of basic shapes, entwined and overlapping in a distinct pattern.

Celtic jewelry, including Celtic wedding rings, first gained popularity with followers of neo-pagan religions like Wicca, but are now worn by people of many faiths who simply like the look of the designs. Influences of Celtic design can be seen in many cultures, traditions, and religions of today, most notably in Roman Catholicism which has long since adopted the image of the Celtic Cross as one of their own. It seems only natural that the intricate, ornate, and beautiful designs of the Celts would once again find their way into popular culture. Celtic jewelry began appearing in mainstream America again about ten years ago, although it has been around in one form or another for ages before that.

Celtic wedding rings and other Celtic jewelry make a statement about the person who wears them to the rest of the world. Wearing it says that this is a unique and different person with their own style and a different perspective. Having a Celtic wedding ring on your finger will let you hear some things as well. Most common is the comment, “Oh my gosh, what a gorgeous ring! Where did you get that?”

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The History of the Wedding Ring

The use of the wedding ring as a symbol of the bond between husband and wife is familiar to us as the concept of marriage itself, but from where did this interesting tradition emerge? The history of wedding rings as they are known today is actually unclear. In an article dating from the July 1869 issue of Appleton’s Journal of popular Literature, Science, and Art, Edward J. Wood hypothesizes that the modern (modern as of 1869) use of wedding rings stems from the practices of ancient Hebrews. It was customary for the family of a prospective groom to give gifts to the potential bride and her family. The general assumption is that it is from this tradition that the use of wedding rings as we know them seems to have evolved.

Wedding rings are not specifically mentioned in the Bible, but references do exist that suggest the aforementioned Hebrew practices. Genesis 24:53 in the King James Version reads, “And the servant brought forth jewels of silver, and jewels of gold, and raiment, and gave them to Rebekah: he gave also to her brother and to her mother precious things,” speaking of the servant of Abraham, the father of Isaac, who was to wed Rebekah. The wedding ring first came into use in Christian wedding ceremonies around 870 A.D.

The tradition of wearing a wedding ring on the fourth finger of the left hand also comes from the ancients. In ancient Greece it was believed that an artery from that particular finger led directly to the heart. While we now know this is pure mythology, it does serve as a rather romantic explanation for the tradition.

Although the concept of the wedding ring is obviously very old, the ring was almost always worn by the bride. Double-ring wedding ceremonies are rather new. Wedding rings for men were almost unheard of before 1940 and increased in use about the time of the Second World War. According to an October 1953 story in Hobbies, only about 15% of wedding ceremonies included a ring for the groom. After the start of World War II, the percentage jumped to 60%, and then to 70% after the start of the Korean war. Today it is more common than not for grooms and brides alike to wear a wedding ring.

So, why a wedding ring, as opposed to, say, a wedding bracelet or necklace? Religious ceremonies usually include a mention by the officiating clergyman of the ring’s unending circle being representative of both God’s perfect love for humanity and the marrying couple’s undivided devotion to one another.

While the precise origin of the wedding ring is unclear and lost to history, today we recognize the wedding ring as a symbol of the unity of marriage. The couples of today also generally choose their wedding rings together, thus adding to the personal symbolism that the jewelry carries for them. Additionally, the wedding ring serves as a social symbol in today’s world, signifying to others that this man or woman is “spoken for.”

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Titanium Wedding Rings: Wave of the Future?

Amongst all of the traditions we use in matrimonial ceremonies and celebrations, none is more familiar or meaningful than the wedding ring. The time honored tradition of couples wearing bands to signify their unyielding love and devotion for one another goes back perhaps farther than recorded history. In modern tradition, the wedding ring is typically a band of 18 karat gold, but that tradition has changed in recent years. Today there are many more designs in wedding rings available than there were even as recently as when your parents were married. The traditional plain gold bands are still available, of course, but so are more intricate and ornate designs, as well as bands made of white gold, platinum, and a popular new choice: titanium. In fact, titanium wedding rings are getting more and more popular and there are several reasons for this phenomenon.

Most certainly a part of the reason for the steady increase in the use of titanium wedding rings is the price. Titanium wedding rings cost considerably less than gold or platinum rings but are every bit as beautiful. A titanium wedding ring can cost hundreds of dollars less than comparable rings made of the other precious metals. This is an important consideration for many couples who, due to budgetary limitations, may have had to buy the poorest quality gold rings or do without wedding rings entirely. Titanium rings are a good choice for the budget conscious.

Titanium wedding rings are also more durable than the traditional gold rings. Titanium becomes scratched less easily than gold and can stand up to more of the wear and tear that can result from a person wearing the ring all the time. This is especially true of the men’s rings as men tend to be much harder on their wedding rings than women are. Titanium is more resistive to heat and cold and extreme pressure than gold or platinum are. Think about it. Titanium is used in the space shuttle. It is an alloy that can take a beating.

Titanium is a very smooth alloy as well. Due to this, titanium wedding rings tend to be very comfortable and there is less chance of skin irritation. Also, there are some people who, due to an allergic reaction, can not wear gold jewelry at all. In the past the only option for them has been the far more costly platinum rings. Now titanium wedding rings are a viable alternative for these people.

When it comes time for you to choose wedding rings for yourself and your intended spouse, you may want to look into titanium. Many jewelers as well as online marketers carry an impressive array of titanium wedding rings that are every bit as lovely as their more traditional gold, white gold, and platinum counterparts. In an aspect of life that is full of tradition and similarity all through history, it’s nice that there are now more choices available. Titanium wedding rings are now just one more of those choices that may be right for you.

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Choosing Your Wedding Colors

Wedding dress, flowers, church, reception, cake topper, decorations, music AND wedding colors. Although it sounds daunting, choosing wedding colors is really quite simple.

When choosing your wedding colors think about the different colors that you like most. You may want to choose a main color and one or two accent colors for visual beauty. If you really don’t have a favorite color, think about the season that you’re getting married in. If you’re planning a spring or summer wedding go with pastels and brighter colors. For winter ceremonies try darker purples and burgundies. You can also use red and silver for a more Christmas themed wedding. For a fall wedding, oranges, yellows and even reds can give a warm harvest feel.

One thing to remember when choosing your wedding colors is not to overdue black. Although it is perfectly acceptable and popular to incorporate black into the wedding, over using it can give the feel of a funeral rather than a union of two hearts.

Once you have chosen a main wedding color, you can always use a color wheel, which artists use to accent colors in paintings. Using a wheel will help you choose another color or two that will compliment your main scheme.

Another way to simplify choosing wedding colors is to visit a wedding boutique store with your bridesmaids. Choose a dress that looks good and everyone is comfortable in. Then ask the clerk what colors the dress comes in. By doing this, you will be narrowing down the colors to choose from. Once you decide on a color for their dresses, use this as a main color for your wedding.

No matter what you choose for your wedding colors, this is a detail that will stick out the most with your guests. It will be the center and focal point of flowers, dresses and decorations. So, be sure when you choose a color, you choose carefully and be sure it is something that compliments your wedding party and the atmosphere that you want to set for your wedding.

Other possibilities to help you choose wedding colors are team colors, if you are a sports fan, colors that you saw used in your favorite movie or book, or maybe a time period that gives you that “loving feeling”. You don’t have to have a ‘wedding theme’ to have a ‘color scheme’. Be comfortable in the colors that you choose.

Another idea to help in choosing wedding colors is thinking about what the colors represent. For instance, blue is cool, relaxing and offers a calming vibe. Red reads vibrant and energizing. Green is comforting, refreshing and tranquil, and yellow offers happiness and brightness, giving off an uplifted spirit.

Choose colors for your wedding that will relate back to who you are and what mood you are trying to set. Be happy with what you choose because after all, this is your wedding.

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Choosing Your Wedding Dress

He’s proposed and it is time to make a decision on the most important detail of every little girl’s dream: the wedding dress. Should it be sleeveless, short, long, lacey, sequined or plain? So many questions to ask yourself, although you are sure of one thing, it needs to be perfect.

As soon as the planning begins for the big day, choosing your wedding dress becomes somewhat of an urgency for most brides, who do not want to wait until the last minute. While dealing with wedding stress and preparations, be sure to allow yourself plenty of time to try on different styles and find the one who says “you”.

The theme of your wedding will be an important point when selecting that special dress. Are you getting married on the beach? If so, you might choose a light airy style. Have you decided on a formal affair? Then by all means, go all out and wear a white dress covered in silk and lace. Whatever type of occasion your wedding will be, your dress will play one of the most important roles in it!

It’s also important to think about the month and season you are getting married in. If you are having a middle of summer wedding, then you probably shouldn’t wear a wedding dress with double layers or long sleeves. After all, this is supposed to be the most memorable day of your beginning together. You don’t want the biggest memory to be how much you perspired throughout the ceremony!

When choosing a wedding dress, try on comfortable styles. Walk around in them, if kneeling is part of your ceremony, then kneel in the dress and be sure you are not going to be uncomfortable in your choice. The beauty of the dress is only half of your decision-the other half is looking beautiful, happy and elegant. You cannot look happy if you are holding your breath so seams do not pop or you’re itchy from the lace on your arms.

One mistake that a lot of brides tend to make when choosing a wedding dress is with the size. If you are planning on losing weight before your big day, do not buy a dress the size you think you may be come the wedding day. Instead buy the size you are on the day you choose the dress. It will always be easier to take a dress in if it is too big, than to add material for a dress that ended up being too small.

With the expense of weddings, some couples try and cut back by making their own flowers, having a family member bake the wedding cake or hiring a friend to take wedding photos. Although it is okay to cut back and still have your dream wedding, don’t skimp when choosing your wedding dress. If you cannot afford to hit a wedding boutique and pay their prices, try wedding consignment shops, who offer ‘like new’ dresses at an affordable price.

Whatever style, color or price range you decide on when choosing your wedding dress, remember that you are still “You” and that is who your fiancé fell in love with, not your dress, which will only add to the ambiance of your day.

After you have chosen your wedding dress hang it in the bag it comes in and do not over show it. Give guests something to look forward to as they see you for the first time walking down the aisle. And unless it is unavoidable, do not let your future husband see your dress at all before the wedding. It’s bad luck!

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Be Nice When Choosing Your Bridesmaids Dresses!

You have chosen your dream dress, you and your future husband have decided on the wedding party and the bridesmaids are anxious to see what their dresses are going to look like. When choosing your bridesmaid dresses, don’t forget to keep their emotions and tastes in mind!

Remember that although this is your big day, your bridesmaids have decided to share in your joy and help you make lasting memories. And one of the biggest ways that you can include them in the merriment is to ask them to help you with the decision. In other words, in addition to your own ideas, find out what their likes and dislikes are. After all, if they’re not happy with your choice and they feel uncomfortable, it will show in your wedding photos.

Compliment your bridesmaids’ figures, hair color and complexions when choosing their dresses. You can still be the center of attention while allowing your wedding party to glow and shine behind you. Be sure to have your bridesmaids try on several styles and colors and let them choose one or two of their favorites to help you make your decision.

As important as comfort is for you, it is just as important for your girls. So, when choosing the bridesmaids dresses, look for comfort in the fit and the style. If you are a courteous bride, thinking of their needs while tending to your own, it will be appreciated by your wedding party and they will be more willing to help you.

If you’ve ever been bridesmaid yourself, then you likely understand how important it is to consider cost when choosing the bridesmaid dresses. While you may be working on a wedding budget, keep in mind that your wedding party also may be hoping for affordable attire. Talk to your bridesmaids and ask them how much they are willing to spend.

Be sure while choosing bridesmaids dresses you record everything in a notebook so that you won’t forget or lose the valuable information. Through the chaos of planning the rest of the wedding, it could be all too easy to forget sizes, styles, alteration decisions, and how much is owed on the dresses. Keeping everything in a notebook will help you stay organized and feel less stress.

After the bridesmaids dresses have been decided on, don’t forget to ask about fittings. Find out how many fitting will be needed for each girl and exactly what the cost is for each one of them. Write down times and dates to help your wedding party remember and if possible, let the bridesmaids schedule the appointments themselves to ensure it is a good time for them.

Now you have chosen the bridesmaids dresses, they are happy about the color, style and fit. Don’t forget the shoes! Remember to tell your bridesmaids whether they are to wear flats or pumps. And if you want them dyed to match the dresses, let them know and give them time to prepare. As long as you use respect and common courtesy, you will most likely have a happy wedding party thus giving you a beautiful, happy day to remember.

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The Benefits and Drawbacks of Tension Set Wedding Rings

As an alternative to the traditional channel set wedding and engagement rings, rings created with a process called tension setting have started to become popular in recent years. Tension set wedding rings and engagement rings have a stone (typically a diamond, although tension setting can be used with any precious gem) that is set in an opening in the ring itself and held by tension of the open ends of the ring pressing against the stone. Jewelers agree that there are both positive and negative aspects to choosing tension set rings.

The Benefits

Tension set rings are beautiful. Because the design is so unique, your tension set wedding or engagement ring will definitely draw people’s attention. The rings are available in all the typical styles one would expect, including rings of gold, platinum, titanium, and white gold, but the tension setting gives them a stylized and modernistic look that channel set rings are simply not capable of. People will examine the ring up close and, if they’ve never seen a tension setting before, will wonder how in the world that stone stays in place. You’ll find that your tension set wedding ring will be a topic of conversation at many a social gathering.

Makers of tension set wedding rings insist that the stone is immoveable and will never be lost. Whether this is actually true is the topic of some debate, but it is a claim that can not be made for channel set rings as we know that channel set stones can sometimes work their way loose and be lost.

The Drawbacks

It is difficult for a jeweler to effectively resize a tension set ring of any kind. The process of resizing a ring actually alters the shape and thickness of the metal and this will cause a change in the amount of tension holding the stone in place. This is particularly troubling for someone with a tension set wedding ring, since the ring is meant to be worn forever. As a person ages, their body changes so, even someone who doesn’t gain or lose weight over the years (and that’s a scant few of us) will still likely have a different ring size when he or she reaches the age of fifty than he or she did at age twenty five.

While proponents of tension settings do make the aforementioned claim that the stone is immoveable, opponents of the process say quite the opposite. Several jewelers claim that they have been approached by people looking for advice on how to replace a lost stone from a tension set wedding ring. The jury is still out, therefore, on whether tension settings really are more effective than the more traditional channel settings.

The final drawback is for the jewelers themselves. Jeweler Keith Farley states on the InForm web site that it is very easy for a person to intentionally remove the stone from a tension set ring. This, obviously, makes it that much easier for a dishonest customer to remove the stone and then come back to the jeweler seeking a replacement under the terms of a warranty, claiming that the setting was lost.

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Handcrafted Wedding Rings Make Excellent Choices

Couples searching for wedding rings have many more options today than have been available in the past. Wedding rings in multiple styles and designs are now available and the choices become more diverse practically every day. One option that has been available for a long time but has been traditionally out of reach to many couples due to prohibitive costs is that of custom-ordering handcrafted wedding rings.

Custom-ordered handcrafted wedding rings used to be available only from major jewelers at rather exorbitant prices, making this an option for celebrities or the extremely well-to-do. This is no longer the case. Major changes in the jewelry industry and the prevalence of the Internet in all aspects of commerce have allied to bring the prices of handcrafted wedding rings steadily down. Handcrafted wedding rings that once cost thousands can now be had for a fraction of their former amount. A custom-ordered handcrafted ring will still cost more than a traditional ring of similar quality, of course, but the price difference is nowhere near what it once was.

Handcrafted wedding rings can be purchased without making a special order these days as well. There are many small companies that specialize in such rings all over the world and they have the advent of the Internet to thank for their inclusion in a far wider market than they ever had before. In many cases these beautiful handcrafted wedding rings can be acquired for much less than the rings available at major jewelry outfits. For example, a beautiful handcrafted wedding ring I found online was designed with a unique challah braid design and cost about $375.00. Looking at a site that offered more traditional rings, I found a plain gold band of the same dimensions and same karat weight for $425.00. Faced with paying more money for a less interesting ring or less money for a unique handcrafted wedding ring, I think I know which option I would choose. This may be the exception rather than the rule, of course. Some handcrafted wedding rings will definitely still cost more, but the beautiful workmanship you get for your money makes all the difference in the world.

Of course, handcrafted wedding rings are merely one of many options available. Ultimately, the rings that you choose will reflect your personal tastes and sense of style. They will be a reflection of your inner selves and, of course, a symbol of your undying love and devotion to each other. That’s what a wedding ring is, after all, a symbol. It’s just very nice to know that there are so many options no available when it comes to selecting that symbol. The ready availability of handcrafted wedding rings has simply added to those options. It’s good for the small jewelers that create these beautiful rings to now have such a wide market in which to offer them, and having such variety to choose from is a good thing for everyone who is looking for the perfect wedding ring.

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