How to Choose Her Wedding Band

If you're reading this blog, there's a good chance you are close to saying "I do." Congratulations! One of the last steps before tying the not is often picking out wedding bands. The engagement ring celebrates the day you said "yes," but your wedding bands are for the day you say "I do!"

Brides can choose or design a wedding band that truly reflects their personal style and that reflects their marriage. Today's brides have metals, colors, shapes and multiple bands to consider when selecting a wedding band.

Enhance your beautiful engagement ring and show off your personal style with these tips to picking out your perfect wedding band:


DECIDE ON YOUR STYLE

Do you want a ring that perfectly matches your engagement ring or would you like something that pops on its own? Contrasting engagement rings and wedding bands are trending and help create a totally unique look. If you love rose or white gold but have a yellow gold engagement ring, you might appreciate the mixed metal look with your wedding band.

CONSIDER COLORS

Colored gemstones in your wedding band can highlight your personal style and touch on things that are important to you like the birthstone of your partner or a month that is special to you. Ruby, emerald and sapphire are popular gems for a bridal set.

THINK ABOUT LIFESTYLE

If you are active or like to travel with minimal jewelry, you might like the option of a wedding band that you can wear without your engagement ring. It's a nice option to leave your engagement ring in the jewelry box at times.

STACK THEM UP 
Your options now stack far higher than one simple band! The only thing better than one perfect wedding band is two! More than one band can perfectly frame and complement your engagement ring.


Visit us at Preciosa Jewelry 7 days a week at either Chicago location: 4618B Kedzie Ave or 6950 W. Archer Ave.

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Father's Day Gift Ideas for Dad

Father's Day is coming up Sunday, June 21, and we at Preciosa Jewelry are sharing our favorite gift ideas for dad. Skip the tie and give him a gift he will both love and put to use. 


Portable Briefcase BBQ Grill

Briefcase Grill from Uncommon Goods

For the dad who loves to grill, this is a great gift he can take on the go. This stainless steel charcoal grill can be taken anywhere from tight Chicago urban spaces to picnics on the green. Buy at uncommongoods.com.


Give Dad a Quality Watch

Men's Bulova Watch from Preciosa Jewelry

The right watch can be worn often and passed down for generations. Practical and beautiful, a quality timepiece is a Father's Day gift he can put to good use. We can help you pick one for his lifestyle whether he travels often, loves the outdoors or favors a specific brand.


Drink Rocks

Drink Rocks from Area Ware

Take dad's evening beverage to a new level with drink rocks. Pull these geometric soapstone and marble shapes from freezer to add sophistication to any home bar. Purchase them at areaware.com.



Make Him Stand Out in Cufflinks

Cufflinks from Preciosa Jewelry

Whether dad saves them for the best of occasions or wears them regularly for business, gorgeous cufflinks are a beautiful and affordable way to say "thanks." There is a set to match dad's interests and personal style-- and to match your budget!


Functional Graham iPhone Case

Graham iPhone Case

This sturdy case is an efficient all-in-one find: it keeps his phone safe while letting him stash credit cards, a driver’s license, and cash in it, too. The soft brown leather is a quality touch with a vintage feel worthy of dad. Tip: take advantage of the free monogram option. Buy at markandgraham.com.


Visit us at Preciosa Jewelry 7 days a week at either Chicago location for help picking out the perfect gift for Dad: 4618B Kedzie Ave or 6950 W. Archer Ave.

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Necklaces to Transform Your Look

Necklaces are the perfect way to upgrade an outfit and make a statement. Layered, pearl, statement or pendant, the options are endless but the impact is big. Visit Preciosa Jewelry for necklaces that transform your look, boost your confidence and express your personal style. 

Here are a few of our favorite necklace looks:

LOVE necklace> http://bit.ly/1C6t9xC

Make a statement.
Make a statement with a stylish name or word design. This necklace is perfect for layering.

Perfect pop of color in this pendant!

Add color with a gemstone pendant.
Perfect for work (and your plans after), a gemstone pendant is stylish and refined. Wear your birthstone or match your outfit. With gemstones in all colors of the rainbow, the options are endless.

Keep it classic with pearls.
Pearls add a classic, timeless look to any outfit. A quality pearl necklace can be enjoyed for a lifetime and handed down for generations. Add a modern twist to a classic necklace by layering different sized pearl necklaces.

Imperial Lace Necklace> http://bit.ly/18Bj7bJ

Keep it simple with a statement necklace.
Statement necklaces are totally trending right now. They're bold and fun-- and they can be the main star of a simple outfit. We love this Imperial Lace Necklace with a little black dress or jeans and a fun silk top. 


Follow Preciosa Jewelry on Pinterest for more style inspiration.

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Local Chicago Events to Celebrate Spring

Spring officially begins March 20th and we're ready to celebrate! Here are six opportunities to explore Chicago and ring in the start of spring with upcoming local Chicago events:

Chicago Flower & Garden Show
March 14, 2015 - March 22, 2015  
The 2015 Chicago Flower & Garden Show, presented by Mariano's, continues to celebrate "Do Green. Do Good." through inspiration, education and motivation. Gardening enthusiasts will be treated to the sights, scents and sounds of blooming perennials, annuals and trees while water features rustle throughout the festival hall of Chicago's acclaimed Navy Pier.

Neighborhoods of the World 
Now - March 29, 2015  
Celebrate our city's rich diversity with this annual cultural tribute, featuring a lively afternoon of folk music, traditional dance, cuisine, crafts and much more from various ethnic Chicago communities each week.

Chicago Styled: Fashioning the Magnificent
Now - August 16, 2015  
Featuring more than twenty ensembles from the Museum's permanent collection, Chicago Styled explores the development of North Michigan Avenue into one of the country's most recognized and renowned destinations for upscale retail. Set against a shifting cityscape, the clothing tells the story of the growth of this landmark district, while showcasing the fashion from past decades and the stylish people who wore it. Highlights include designs by Norman Norell, Adolfo, Gianni Versace, and Chanel.

Millennium Park: An Anatomy in Photographs 
Now - October 31, 2015 
Celebrating the 10th anniversary of Millennium Park, this exhibition is curated by John Vinci of Vinci/Hamp Architects and features over 50 images - including historical photographs; images of the Park before, during and after construction; and the work of numerous photographers who used the Park as their subject.

Malott Japanese Garden Spring Weekend
March 21, 2015 - March 22, 2015  
This weekend allows visitors to explore and experience Japanese culture, with hands-on activities, such as writing a spring haiku and decorating scrolls, a suminagashi (Japanese marbleized paper) demonstration, a musical performance of koto harp and traditional Japanese storytelling. Additional activities include raking miniature dry gardens, trying chopsticks and practicing calligraphy.

Spring Flower Show: Sun Showers 
Now - May 10, 2015  
Continuing the Conservatory's grand reopening year theme, Sun Showers celebrates the revival of the Show House and its seasonal shows following the 2011 hailstorm. More than 200 yellow umbrellas hang from the glass ceiling, celebrating both the rain and sun that bring us hopeful spring flowers. Hundreds of blossoms including azaleas, camellias, daffodils, hyacinths, and orchids fill the room with their beauty and aroma. The Spring Show reminds Chicagoans in the midst of winter that warmer weather and colorful gardens are soon to follow. The show will feature additional plants and flowers, such as hydrangea and tulips, throughout its run.

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Where to Celebrate New Year's Eve in Chicago

Thanksgiving and Christmas have passed and New Year's Eve is finally here. Do you know where you are celebrating NYE in Chicago? Preciosa Jewelry shares six well-rounded options for New Year's Eve events in Chicago.


  
Redmoon New Year's Eve: Revolution
Watch spectacle unfold with a carnivalesque collection of nearly 40 costumed performers, acrobats and musicians, as well as crazy mechanical creations... marshmallow slingshots and confetti cannons anyone? Redmoon New Year's Eve: Revolution plays on nature's elements — earth, air, water and fire — turning the theater company's massive warehouse space into a sensuous dreamscape. 

Fireworks at Navy Pier
Navy Pier has all the family-friendly entertainment, rides and attractions for a fun night out. At midnight, ring in the new year with fireworks and perfectly synchronized music.

Chicago Scene New Year's Eve Party at The Drake Hotel
The annual Chicago Scene New Year's Eve Party at The Drake Hotel has been voted "Best Chicago New Year's Eve Party" for 15 years. More than 2,500 guests dance to Chicago's hottest DJs in four ballrooms.

NYE Soiree at Hilton Chicago 
The luxurious NYE Soiree at Hilton Chicago is sure to be an elegant affair beneath twinkling chandeliers. Head to this event for hors d'oeuvres, specialty martinis, live casino gaming, celebrity DJs and swirls of confetti at the midnight hour. 

Bub City presents Shawn Lacy
Enjoy a country-themed New Year's Eve when Bub City presents Shawn Lacy for a night filled with live music from the Nashville-based singer/songwriter, along with Southern comfort favorites like mac n' cheese and fried chicken bites on the buffet menu.

Voyager: 2015 at Chop Shop/1st Ward
Enjoy this 2-story, 15,000 sq. ft. venue transformed into an electric blue world of ice, light and water this New Year's Eve. The space-worthy experience Voyager: 2015 at Chop Shop/1st Ward features internationally-acclaimed music performers Tokimonsta, Esta, Flamingosis, DrmbBt and Edamame,

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Ten Things to Do in Chicago this December

We at Preciosa Jewelers are all about things to do in Chicago! There are always fun community events happening-- but even more so around the holiday season! Below we share ten of our favorite things to do throughout December in Chicago.

source: gozamos.com

1.  Caroling at Cloud Gate in Millennium Park
Through December 19 

2. Santa House at Daley Plaza
Through December 24   

source: sheknows.com

3. McCormick Tribune Ice Skating Rink in Millennium Park
Through March 7, 2015   

4. ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo
Through January 4, 2015 

source: navypier.com

5. Winter WonderFest at Navy Pier
December 5 – January 11, 2015 

6. Do Division Holiday Fest
December 7 - 8  

7. Randolph Street Market Festival
December 12 – 14


8. HoliDose Market
December 14  

9. Kwanzaa Candle Lighting Celebration at the Dusable Museum
December 26 – December 31  

source: navypier.com

10. New Year's Eve Fireworks at Navy Pier
December 31


Did we miss your favorite Chicago event? Share it with us in the comments!

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Three Budget-Friendly Chicago Wedding Venues

Getting married in Chicago is a dream come true for many couples. Since CNN Money puts the average Chicago wedding at $49,810, a Chicago wedding can seem daunting at first. Fret not. We at Preciosa Jewelry love sharing wedding advice. After all, we work with real Chicago couples every day!

Here are our three budget-friendly Chicago wedding venues:

Promontory Point 
Chicago
Promontory Point, or The Point, is a man-made peninsula jutting into Lake Michigan. Located in Burnham Park, the space provides the perfect backdrop for a stunning outdoor Chicago wedding.

Redfield Estate at the Grove
Glenview
The Grove Redfield Estate is an exquisite setting for the most romantic day of your life. Embrace nature’s beauty in this garden-like setting and celebrate your ceremony and/or reception with simple elegance in the charming atmosphere of this historic house and grounds. Enjoy private use of the entire historic home which features a Great Room with fireplace, cathedral ceilings, chandeliers and a breathtaking two-story leaded glass window. A loft area overlooking the room is ideal for musicians to perform.

Seven Bridges Golf Club
Woodridge
Where better to celebrate your new life together than surrounded by nature's beauty in a serene environment? At Seven Bridges, we help you create your vision and then you watch your dreams come true...all while receiving the best value for your hard-earned money. With our spectacular natural setting graced with bridges leading from one plateau to another and our staff of professionals handling all the details, you can relax and enjoy the day's special moments.

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Create Your Perfect Engagement Ring

What does your dream ring look like? With Preciosa Jewelry's state-of-the-art Ring Builder Tool, you can explore different settings, diamonds and price points to ultimately produce a complete ring design.

 Choose your setting: classic, gemstone, halo, side stone, three stone or vintage.


Choose your precious metal.

Select your diamond shape, size and quality.

Explore different views of your ring throughout the process.

Once you complete your perfect ring (or several top contenders), use the tool to drop a hint, request more info, email a friend, print details and schedule a viewing.  Not totally done and have a question regarding your selections? Our specialists are available to assist you.

Create your dream ring or just explore different designs with the Ring Builder Tool!

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All About Pearls

It's no secret that we at Preciosa Jewelers love pearls. They are classic, timeless and beautiful. Pearls can complete your fall outfit, add the finishing touch to your wedding look and serve as a meaningful gift that can be passed down.

source

Below we share just a few pieces of pearl jewelry from our collection. Visit us in our Kedzie Ave. or W. Archer Ave. locations in Chicago for our full selection.

Imperial Gold Earrings> http://bit.ly/1oDHTKf

Imperial Gold Ring> http://bit.ly/1mUmZej

Imperial Gold Chocolate Earrings> http://bit.ly/1oDIFH6

Imperial Gold Ring> http://bit.ly/1mUo5qt

Imperial Gold Ring> http://bit.ly/1oDJks9

Imperial Gold Necklace> http://bit.ly/1mUos4u

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5 Fall Events in Chicago

Now is a great time to get out and enjoy the fall weather along with some of Chicago’s greatest events! Mark your calendars to make it out to these five can’t-miss events in Chicago this fall from Preciosa Jewelers:

Chicago Artists Month Through October
The 19th Annual Chicago Artists Month highlights the work of hundreds of artists throughout Chicago with performances, exhibitions, open studios, tours and neighborhood art walks. Chicago Artists Month will invite residents and visitors to meet artists and see their work at venues across Chicago. The 2014 theme, Crossing Borders, showcases 20 featured programs and artists in neighborhoods ranging from Avondale to Andersonville, Lakeview to Little Village, West Town to Wicker Park and Lawndale to the Loop.

Day of the Dead Ends December 15
Each year, the National Museum of Mexican Art hosts the largest Day of the Dead celebration in the country. The exhibition presents artworks in photography, oil on canvas, wood and linoleum cuts, acid etchings, textiles, cartoneria and other media. Altars, installations, popular art, and fine art by more than 60 Mexican artists from communities in Mexico and the United States are part of the exhibition, which includes dozens of works from the Museum’s Permanent Collection.

All The Names: Patricia Through January 4, 2015

 With a twist toward the absurd and theatrical, Patricia Rieger isolates characters and spaces to suggest drama while maintaining ambiguity in All The Names: Patricia Rieger. Rieger creates images in sculpture and paintings with situations of seeming opposition: quiet and movement, private and public, ordinary and extraordinary, spiritual and banal, pleasure and comfort, creating tension and a poetic construction. She is intrigued with the poetics hidden in the mundane and every day.  This exhibit is located in the Michigan Ave. Galleries on 1st Floor South of the Chicago Cultural Center.

Because Everybody Loves Movies Through October
Sponsored by Dark Horse Wines, the Chicago International Film Festival will host a special exhibit, Because Everybody Loves Movies, an expansive display of posters, images and videos from its venerable five-decade history. Upon entering, visitors will be greeted by the iconic "eyes" logo that has been the Festival's logo since 1967. Along one wall, guests will enjoy an assortment of four-foot by four-foot photographs by Victor Skrebneski highlighting the many film icons that have attended the Festival throughout the years, including Sigourney Weaver, François Truffaut, Orson Welles, Kathleen Turner, Robin Williams, Bette Davis, Colleen Moore, Oliver Stone, Dennis Hopper, Liv Ullmann and others.

Carved, Cast, Crumpled Through December 21
The immersive exhibition Carved, Cast, Crumpled investigates the essential qualities of three-dimensional art across historical and cultural contexts, and questions what it means to be in the presence of an object. Comprised of sculptural works and a handful of related drawings by sculptors, it will showcase a foundational component of the Museum's collection, one that can be traced back to the Joel Starrels, Jr. Memorial Collection of modern sculpture that was featured in the Smart's inaugural exhibition in the fall of 1974.  The exhibition will take over the whole Museum, transforming both spaces normally dedicated to temporary exhibitions as well as those that are home to longer-standing installations of the Smart's collection.

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5 Totally Different Ways to Announce Your Engagement

Congratulations, you're engaged! 

Or maybe you're expecting a proposal soon and want to be prepared for how to announce it. 

Just enjoy all things wedding? We won't judge. 

But we will share some of our favorite engagement announcement ideas to share the big news when he pops the question!

source:

kadphotography.com.au

source:

fashiongalfireman.blogspot.com

source:

makeitcountphoto.com

source:

Holly Northup Pierce

source:

Abby Illa

 Want more help or inspiration from planning the proposal to buying the engagement ring to tying the knot? Visit us at Preciosa Jewelry in Chicago for all of your engagement and wedding needs.

Follow our Engagement Announcement Pinterest board here for creative and wonderful ways to announce your engagement!

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