Archive for February, 2012

A Mangagement Ring for the man who gets proposed to

Lore has it that the tradition of women asking for a man’s hand in marriage started in 5^th century Ireland when St. Bridget complained to St. Patrick that women had to wait too long for a man to propose marriage. As Feb. 29^th existed to fix a problem with the calendar and was considered to have no legal status, St. Patrick remedied the problem by giving all the single ladies permission to propose on that one day.

Documentation from the late 13^th century confirms the practice in Scotland when a law was allegedly passed that allowed women to propose marriage to the man of their choice on a leap year day. Supposedly the law also included fines for refusal to marry, ranging from a kiss to a silk dress or pair of gloves. It sure makes me wonder how the fine was actually levied and the percentage of jilted who would have picked a kiss from a guy who said “no” over lovely formalwear.

While there are plenty of strict traditionalists who argue that a proposal is still a man’s role, comments and feedback from the general public about women doing the asking of their targeted-betrothed indicate that it is becoming more and more acceptable for her to take the reins. Here are a few success stories from PriceScope’s proposal discussion board by some question-popping ladies:

“We went ring shopping last week, and he thought it would be fun to be proposed to, and I agreed. (I hate surprises, he loves them)”

“…we proposed on the same day, me first, him later. Most of his friends are only aware that I proposed to him…and all gape over his ring just like what usually happens to the female part of the couple.”

“I proposed to my husband. And I’m proud of it! And it makes for a heck of a good story.”

“…he was willing to get me the ring I was interested in, if I proposed. I think for him, shopping for the ring together took some of the fun out of it, and being surprised would be great. “

Still need more convincing? Monica proposed to Chandler on Friends. Forget that they were fictional TV characters, they were besties in love who knew that they wanted to spend the rest of their lives together.

Playing along with the age-old tradition, How To Propose To A Man In A Leap Year from Videojug provides a fun video parody of their practical advice of how to propose to a man, which is to:

• Sniff around about his feelings on marriage
• Consider being asked from his point of view
• Select the right spot
• Select an appropriate gift
• Pop the question
• Wait for an answer

So are you thinking of doing the asking?  We would love to hear if you proposed to your guy or if you are thinking about it. After all if you’re ready for marriage and feeling confident about where you both believe your relationship is headed, there is certainly no law that says you can’t.

Till Next Time I Hope Your Next Special Event (or Engagement) is a Red Letter Day

WALK CHICAGO’S GOLD COAST FOR YOUR WEDDING

First, fuel up for your day long shopping trip at Sprinkles cupcakes, check out their wedding cupcakes or treat yourself to your favorite flavor. Then head to Vera Wang , located at 945 Rush St. in Chicago. Just opened earlier this month it is the home of the classic and unique gowns that Vera Wang is known for.  The salon is large and very private, so that you can try on dresses comfortably and without the prying eyes of strangers. Appointments are necessary and can be made by calling 312-379-5355.

Spring 2012 Vera Wang Wedding Dress

The second stop is B H L D N (pronounced Beholden).  This store has two floors of wedding prettiness, you will find vintage style gowns, quirky headpieces, cool bow ties and even a whole room dedicated to less than ordinary decor. Prepare to spend at least 2 hours in this location looking over all of the items. B H L D N is located at 8 East Walton St., Chicago For dress appointments please call 312-573-2573.

Inside the B H L D N store

The third stop is the newly reopened Bella Bridesmaid. This store is dedicated to all things for the maids.  The airy salon has comfy couches and racks of colorful and wearable bridesmaid dresses. Bella is located at 1 East Delaware, Suite 200 Chicago, IL. For appointments call 312-943-0344.

You can Find Lula Kate dresses like these at Bella Bridesmaids

Here is a simple map to help you on your journey!

Walk the Gold Coast for your Wedding

Till Next Time I Hope Your Next Special Event is a Red Letter Day!

This past week my Mother in Law passed away.  She was very charming and gracious and she will be dearly missed.  The last time I saw her was less than 48 hours before she died.  She had been chronically ill for a while and had just moved into the memory support unit of her community however we thought she had turned a corner and was doing well physically.

My husband and I were going over to see her so I could see her new apartment.  We found her in the community dining room it looked like everyone else had already finished their meal, but she was still at the table.  We sat down with her and she said,” this cherry pie is very delicious, in fact this is my second piece, I bet I could get you all a piece as well if you would like” (there was that graciousness that she had).  We declined but continued our visit while she savored every bite of the pie, commenting more than once how good it was.  Our short visit came to an end, and as always I took her hand and said “we will see you soon” however that was not to be.

This last memory I have of my mother in law, has made me realize that you should always enjoy that second piece of cherry pie or whatever brings you joy and happiness.  I am glad I learned this final lesson from her.  Rest in Peace Joan-Carol, your family will miss you.

I love Pinterest, I find it inspiring, creative and just downright fun.  I have really enjoyed finding great pins and seeing them repinned by brides to be and even current and former Red Letter brides!  I imagine many newly engaged and soon to be engaged woman pinning away day and night, while their significant other wonders, what are they doing?

Well guys you are no longer on the outside looking in, there is now Gentlemint, a manly version of Pinterest where you Tack instead of Pin.  I just applied for my invite but I promise I won’t tack  peonies, veils or DIY wedding projects. (wink)

So far the biggest difference I have seen is the aesthetic however creativity is in the eye of the beholder and honestly, the Felted Guinness Beer Soap (see below) would make a great groomsmen gift- guess I need to make  a best of Gentlemint board on Pinterest!

A popular "tack" on Gentlemint

Till next time I hope your next celebration is a “Red Letter Day”