April 9, 2021

Tips to get a perfect diamond engagement ring for your partner

An engagement ring is a physical symbol of your love, dedication, and commitment towards your partner. Having great emotional value and demanding enormous financial investment, buying an engagement ring can be confusing and baffling, especially if you do not have any understanding of diamonds. 

Rest easy if that is the case; this article will help you get a perfect diamond engagement ring for your partner. 

The Maria engagement ring

The Maria engagement ring

  • Timeless or Trend 

Style is the most influential decision while considering a perfect engagement ring for your partner. Trendy or classic, it both weigh the same and depends on your personal choice. 

Classical style like round or oval shape engagement rings is extravagant and has its own enchantment, while a trendy one (colored or precious stone) will evoke you of the era (in which you got engaged); accordingly, pick one that she will wear for the rest of her life. 

Moreover, do not overthink if you want the diamond to be a unique one —as long as it gratifies your love’s style, anything is perfect. 

  • Understand the 4 C’s of Diamonds 

Experts define a diamond’s beauty and worth using the 4Cs. These factors, though significant, should not be your priority. An engagement ring should satisfy your interests. And no matter how high-graded a diamond is, if it doesn’t dazzle you—it’s not worth considering. So, do not make these determinants a big issue while picking the ideal engagement ring. Nonetheless, here’s what it suggests: 

Cut:

Impacting the beauty of the diamond, cut is the most influential factor when judging the perfect diamond engagement ring for your partner. The cut signifies the quality of angles, symmetrical facets, dimensions and proportions, finishing details on the diamond. The best cut on an engagement ring is rated Ideal, and the scale downgrades to Excellent, Very Good, Good, Fair, and Poor

Clarity: 

Clarity determines how clean the diamond is; the count of natural imperfections, otherwise known as inclusions and blemishes. Flawless (FL) is the highest grade allotted, while Includes (I) indicates the presence of inclusions. However, retain that all imperfections are not visible to the unaided eye. So, you do not have to purchase the engagement ring having the most chief rating; instead, focus on how clean the diamond appears to the naked eye. 

Color:  

The most colorless the diamond is, the higher is its worth. Rating D means the diamond is most colorless while Z (the lowest) indicates there is yellowness in the diamond color. Color also depends on the shape of the diamond; for instance, the oval-shaped engagement rings give off the yellowish colors easily than a round one that deceives the color brilliantly. 

 Carat: 

Carat refers to the weight of the diamond; it’s often the least considered factor as you want to focus more on the appearance and brilliance of the diamond and not the mass. Retain that higher carat weight does not have any influence on the shine of the diamond. 

  •  Size should suit her, not a budget. 

An engagement ring is a gesture of commitment, but it necessarily doesn’t have to be big. In fact, the bigger the size of the diamond, the smaller it is in quality. There are many factors to evaluate when considering the size: 

  • Does she prefer wearing heavy jewelry? 
  • What is her profession? That might not seem much, but if her work requires more handwork (chef, hairstylist, etc. ), then a chunky stone will be too much for her to wear everyday.
  • Does she like showing off? 
  • Is she careless? (She might lose it). And much more. 

In all, trading size for color and clarity wouldn’t be practical unless the size of the diamond concerns your fiancée to be. 

  • Choose the Perfect Setting.

After choosing the perfect engagement ring, you also have to give thought to the frame. Again, numerous things make an ideal backdrop: 

  • What color metal will best agree with her? 
  • How high will the diamond sit? 
  • Do you want to engrave a message? 
  • What will be the perfect width for her fingers?
  • Do you want the ring to be more durable? 

An ideal framework should display the stone as a piece of artwork and amuse your partner’s style. 

  • Online Vs. In-Store 

While In-Store shopping presents you the opportunity to touch and feel the diamond, it is more salutary to opt for trusted online stores. Online stores not only have an extensive inventory but also there is no sales pressure.  

You can browse thousands of stones, compare them, and get the most desirable deal via an online vendor. Besides, you will also save money as online stores do not invest in property and other factors, which comes as an added cost when buying the engagement ring at a local store. Today, most online stores also accommodate a jeweler to help you pick the best diamond at no additional charges. Meaning, you get more for less. 

  • Always Buy Certified Diamonds

A diamond grading certificate is an indicator that a particular diamond is authentic. Additionally, it also designates that the diamond is inspected and approved by a gemologist.

Be it a natural piece or a lab-created diamond. It must have a document advertised by agencies like GIA, DGLA, IGI, SGL, and AGS. Furthermore, purchase from a trusted seller to protect yourself against deception. 

  • Pick out the ring together.

The best way to get the perfect diamond engagement ring for your partner is to ask what she needs. Okay, it might not be a big surprise that you always fancied, but at least she will not have to wear something that she doesn’t relish.  

Or, you might have already proposed. Whatever the reason may be, asking your partner’s cooperation might be the unique thing about your engagement. Instead, let the shock be of when and how.

Conclusion:

An engagement ring is not about having an expensive diamond and luxurious band; as mentioned numerous times in this article, it is about the commitment you share. Rules like spending three months of salary are nothing but clever marketing schemes. So, do not put much stress on your wallet. Instead, choose one that’s perfect for her. 

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April 8, 2021

The Luxury Vegan, Faux Mink Lashes That Are Helping Women Feel Empowered

 

Without saying any words, your eyes communicate much more than you may realize and can say a lot about what you are thinking and feeling.  How you look plays a huge role in your confidence which is how Ashley Kennedy was born.

Introducing Ashley Kennedy, a luxury lash brand that fuses minimalistic designs, beauty, and affordability. We love that they are the easiest and quickest lashes you will ever apply.

 

Read about this black-owned brand and its backstory.  What started as feeling best during date night turned into a brand that is helping women empower beauty from the inside out.

Look to the brand for the ultimate beauty regimen with premium handmade lashes starting at $9.99. Each set is super lightweight, provides all-day comfort, and is reusable. Feel empowered, fabulous, and ready for spring fashions and celebrations!


Six unique lashes are available, so change the style depending on your mood and the occasion.

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April 8, 2021

multitasky: One-Stop-Shop for Multifunctional Home Goods, Tech Accessories and Office Decor

Breaking the glass ceiling in a male dominated industry, Asian-owned, female founded brand multitasky is a one-stop-shop merging office organization and sleek home décor.
After leaving her successful career at top Fortune 500 companies – including Disney+ and Alibaba – to venture out on her own, Julia Xu launched multitasky during the pandemic when she recognized the lack of stylish and affordable office accessories and made it her mission to create a space that empowers entrepreneurs and businesswomen alike.

Designed for the go-getters, multitasky is the ultimate destination for the boss babes and boys of the world to create a functional and picturesque workplace that inspires creativity and enhances your work experience. From fun and vibrant-colored portable lamps, ring lights and iPhone stands to vegan leather notebooks and candle-themed humidifiers, multitasky embraces the color while enhancing productivity by creating a space that inspires.
multitasky retails between $5 and $100 for individual products, with themed value sets like the Scribbler desk set ranging from $50 to $200. 
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April 8, 2021

Most Versatile Soap on Earth!

by Lisa Gal

Everyone needs soap in their life, whether it be to wash their hands, their dishes, or their laundry. But all of this washing can be harmful to your skin. A vast amount of people have been turning toward natural or even organic products that are better for not only their skin but the environment as well. Family soapmakers since 1858 Dr. Bronner‘s line of personal and home care products uses only the purest organic & fair trade ingredients. No synthetic preservatives, no detergents or foaming agents—none! Some of their products are all-in-one cleaners meaning they have many uses which equal less packaging. They use 100% post-consumer recycled plastic packaging and 100% post-consumer recycled corrugate, water/materials recycling. We are thrilled to include a 5-piece gift set from Dr. Bronner‘s in our 2021 “Covid-style” Hollywood Swag Bags being direct gifted to the nominees honoring Oscar weekend. We know the recipients are going to love receiving these products!

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April 7, 2021

Portovino Wine Purse Acquires “THE SWANKEY!” Take up to 3L of Your Fav Bev “On the Go”

The PortoVino Wine Purse, who happens to be the master of “Fashion meets Function,” has introduced an amazing new collection called the Swankey! The Swankey Tote, or as we like to call it, the Supersized PortoVino, not only allows you to fill up the included beverage pouch with up to 4 bottles of wine or 3L of any beverage hot or cold, but you can also insert and 3L boxed wine pouch in it!

What I love about the PortoVino Wine Purse and their entire collection is that these bags have been designed to carry all of a woman’s (or man’s) essentials, and up to 2 bottles of wine or your favorite beverage!

(Phoenix, ARIZONA, April 6, 2021) The time to expand the PortoVino Wine Purse collection has come. The “fashion meets functionality” company recently made a super-size addition to their already incredible collection of wine bags by acquiring the Swankey Beverage Tote Bag.

Portovino, the Wine Lover’s go-to purse brand, allows you to discreetly store and pour up to 2 bottles of wine, or your favorite drink “on the go”, and the new addition to the collection, now brings even more to the table. The Swankey Tote, or as we like to call it, the Supersized PortoVino, not only allows you to fill up the included beverage pouch with up to 4 bottles of wine or 3L of any beverage hot or cold, but you can also insert and 3L boxed wine pouch in it. This new Swankey is designed with a built-in cooler, so you can fill it up with a 6 pack of cans and all of your picnic items. It is essentially your everyday bag with a stealthy cooler attached all while adding a stylish pop of color to your outfit and making life much easier. You can bring the Swankey Tote bag with you to all kinds of events, filling it up with water for hot days, mixed drinks for festivals, or cold brew for busy moms on the go.

Much like the PortoVino, The Swankey Tote is your everyday bag but unlike your average everyday bag, it has a secret, zippered, and insulated compartment for the wine pouch that is separate from the actual bag. The Swankey’s compartment is deigned like its own cooler and is big enough to store the 3-liter capacity beverage pouch that is included with each tote, or you can easily replace it with any of the smaller 750ml or 1.5L beverage pouches that PortoVino offers and have extra room for any snacks you’d like to keep cool. The Swankey can dub as a cooler for anything you would like to keep cold or hot. The value is unbeatable, and just like the rest of the PortoVino Wine purse collections, the Swankey Tote also includes a flap that covers the pouring spouts, as well as interior pockets that can hold your phone, keys, and your mask while you take a quick sip.

Not only will you now be able to choose whether you want a more formal leather purse or a fun and colorful one with an assortment of different patterns to choose from, but you will also be able to choose by capacity. Portovino allows you to choose between 1 bottle or 2 bottle pouches, and now with the amount of space in the Swankey Tote you’ll have enough wine to provide for all of your friends. Whether you decide to utilize the function of taking your wine on the go or using them as your favorite fashion accessory for everyday use, you will always create a buzz, so pick your poison and be ready to be everyone’s official favorite friend.

 

 

About PortoVino

 

The PortoVino purse, which notably stores and pours up to 2 bottles of wine from a secret insulated compartment, is making fast strides in the fashion industry. Since their 2017 launch, their collection has more than tripled with fashion accessories ranging from their classic vegan leather wine bags to their trendy messenger bags, to their insanely popular Double Pour Tuscany totes. There is truly something available for everyone’s personal style esthetic.

 

PortoVino is also socially conscious, and since 2016 has partnered with Feed My Starving Children (FMSC) organization. FMSC is a Christian based non-profit organization that coordinates the packaging and distribution of food to people in developing nations. Since 1987, it has reached out to more than 70 countries. For every PortoVino purse purchased, one meal is donated to Feed My Starving Children.

 

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April 7, 2021

Sharing the Power of Story With the World

 

by Lisa Gal

Karen Mc Dermott (KMD Books) is a renowned speaker, author, and publisher of engaging books by thought leaders, business owners, futurists, innovators, and industry experts. In 2012 Karen founded Serenity Press which is a growing independent publishing company with heartfelt passion and a burning desire to create beautiful books. Having penned over 20 books Karen knows what a complex process book writing can be, so through KMD and Serenity Press, she is able to create opportunities for Australian authors through publication, writers’ retreats & workshops. We are thrilled to have several of her authors’ titles featured in our 2021 “Covid-style” Hollywood Swag Bags being direct gifted to nominees honoring Oscar weekend. These titles include YNOT, The Power of Knowing, Unbecoming, Future Proof Your Career, Beautiful Unique Faces, Back Yourself, Quantum Thinking, and When I Go Outside.

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April 6, 2021

One-two Punch

by Lisa Gal

Punch and Judy author Kelly Van Nelson lives a life that some of us can only dream of. She has traveled to over 50 countries and lived in places like Scotland, England, South Africa, and Western Australia. She and her husband lived on a farm while raising two children, lived in a fishing village overlooking a lighthouse, and is currently surrounded by stunning beaches all while working for a Fortune 500 country helping provide jobs to thousands of people every day. Kelly has been able to draw inspiration from everything around her and in 2019 launched Graffiti Lane which was debuting her poetry collection. Her career took off as it hit the #1 poetry bestseller spot on Amazon in the UK and Australia. Her second poetry book Punch and Judy hit the #1 bestseller position the same day it launched! We are super excited to have her latest collection in our 2021 “Covid-style” Hollywood Swag Bags being direct gifted to nominees honoring Oscar weekend.

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April 6, 2021

Small Female Owned Business in the Heart of NYC – Boom Boom Brow Bar Celebrates its 13th Birthday

 

April, 2021 (New York, NY) – Boom Boom Brow Bar, the first walk-in brow bar in NYC, not only survived the pandemic, it is celebrating Lucky 13 on April Fool’s Day!  The only joke is the party has to wait until it’s safe enough to have a giant bash with balloons, bubbly, animals, friendly faces, gorgeous brows, great music, a wishing well, and so much hope for the future!

“13 years is quite an accomplishment in NYC as a female small business owner, especially given the circumstances of this past year.  We did it, we are stronger, and we are proud to be a part of and supported by such a diverse community,” explains Malynda Vigliotti, owner of Boom Boom Brow Bar.

Boom Boom Brow Bar opened in 2008 during the recession (no loan), three years later the New York Times highlighted it as a “Neighborhood Joint” and it BOOMED!   “It really was the most exciting time and paved the way for our success,” says Vigliotti.

The business survived the recession, moved to a new location, endured scaffolding (twice!) withstood a lockdown and is now operating safely during a pandemic.  This little female owned, mom no pop shop in the heart of NYC has survived because of community and a big bold reputation.  “We are at half a million brows now, can you believe?!  It’s almost a miracle that we’ve survived, and yet I know we will thrive!” says Vigliotti.

Brows are everything right now, and above the mask!  Put a face covering on and walk on in, no appointment needed.  Brows are done sitting up and 6 ft apart, so it’s safe.  And it costs less than $30 for 10 minutes of fun and a set of gorgeous brows.

“What a ride! And, we have so much more to look forward to…we are here to stay!” adds Vigliotti who has a new product line launching SOON!

Malynda Vigliotti (aka Boom Boom) opened the first walk-in brow bar in NYC in 2008. Boom Boom Brow Bar survived the pandemic and is celebrating 13 years strong as a female small business owner in NYC.  With close to half a million people served, she’s changing the world one brow at a time with walk-in services, practical prices, clean products, an inclusive engaged COMMUNITY and a whole lot of FUN!  Everyone should have access to gorgeous brows, after all, they are the most important feature on the face…especially when wearing a mask!  As seen in American Spa, Bustle, Byrdie, Eye Lash, Good Housekeeping, Huffington Post, In Style, Newsday, New York Post, New York Times, Nylon, PopSugar, Refinery29, Spa Week, The Knot, Vogue and Vogue UK. Instagram: @BoomBoomBrowBar; Facebook: @BoomBoomBrowBar and Twitter: @BoomBoomBrowBar.

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April 6, 2021

Japanese Inspired, 100% vegan, Kabuki MU Brushes, A Springtime Dream

 

Founder, Tammy Huynh and the LUXIE team are forging a new path on which makeup lovers need not sacrifice ethics for aesthetics. LUXIE offers the world’s first 100% vegan, high-performing makeup brushes has since become a company that models a new standard of sustainability, responsibility, and quality.

Now with high standards, LUXIE introduces Japanese-inspired traditional Kabuki Brush Set . This beautiful set is inspired by Japanese and and perfect for layering.

Your dream springtime brush is here, just apply cream or powder bronzers or highlighters for the perfect glowy looks.

Consisting of four brushes, the 530 flat top kabuki, 532 Round top kabuki, 533 Setting powder kabuki, and the 534 angled top buffer brush; all you need to create a perfect canvas of face makeup.

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April 6, 2021

An aquatic workout that’s like a Peloton for the pool- introducing Fluid Running.

You have likely seen grandmothers doing water aerobics in a Florida gated community and laughed silently as they attempted to exercise “elder style.” This is probably what you picture if someone says, “water workout.” Fluid Running is a serious aquatic high-tech workout developed by certified trainer Jennifer Conroyd after she was injured and needed to rehab to run a marathon. The Fluid Running workout uses a flotation belt and Bluetooth, waterproof headphones that connect with the Fluid Running app in order to hear music-backed workouts, from beginner to extremely advanced, that are led by Jennifer. Your phone stays safe and dry wrapped in a towel or gym bag.  These workouts are performed in deep water such as a pool, lake, or bay. You do not travel during the workouts, the Fluid Running form keeps you in one place.

Who is a candidate for Fluid Running?

There are many reasons why and categories of people who choose to do an aquatic workout. Running in the pool is great for people who have injuries or are rehabilitating. Pregnant women love it because it doesn’t jar or overheat the fetus. People who don’t like to sweat have no worries in the water! If you have extra weight, there is no danger of putting additional pressure on joints since everyone is weightless in the water. Athletes do it because they can get a full-body workout and reduce the risk of injury. For those who want to lose weight, running in deep water burns 30-40% more calories than running on land because water is 800 times denser than air. For those looking to jumpstart an exercise program, they can go at their own pace in a beginner-level workout without the intimidation factor of a class situation. People of all ages and fitness levels can use this program as long as they are comfortable in deep water, and you don’t need to be a runner or a swimmer.  Unlike other forms of at-home gym equipment, Fluid Running takes up virtually no space. Its components can fit in a gym bag.

 

How does it work?

Using a special flotation belt, you get into the deep end of the pool (or bay or lake), hit “play” on your headphones and begin one of the Fluid Running workouts.  The workouts are interval-based and combine deep water running with several other movements that keep the Fluid Runner engaged and challenged.  While serious runners have known the benefits of “water running”, many complained about a lack of mental stimulation. Fluid Running has evolved the concept with Bluetooth, waterproof headphones, an app, and specific workouts led by founder and certified trainer Jennifer Conroyd that are geared for all fitness levels. The water needs to be deep enough so that your feet do not touch the bottom when you are running in the upright position. Once you receive the equipment, install the Fluid Running app, download the included workouts, and pair your new Bluetooth, waterproof headphones. All workouts are audio so there is no need to be watching a screen. See the program in action here:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zarlxUJkDfc

 

How does Fluid Running compare to running on land?

In terms of form, Fluid Running and land running form and mechanics are the same. What’s different is the impact and calorie burn. With Fluid Running, there is NO impact. There’s no such thing as low impact running on land. Many of Fluid Running’s participants are avid runners, but running on land can cause joint stress and injuries. Fluid Running lets people enjoy the benefits of running with none of the harmful impact. Movement in cool, circulating water helps improve flexibility while cushioning the joints and reducing inflammation. Water also creates resistance, and uses core and upper body muscles, which is why deep water running burns about 40% more calories than land running.

 

What is the science behind aquatic running?

Running in deep water, combined with hydrostatic pressure enables the stimulation of metabolic and neuromuscular systems, followed by their corresponding physiological adaptations allowing both to maintain and improve athletic performance. Aquatic exercise can also play a beneficial role in an athlete’s recovery, helping to prevent as well as treat muscle damage and soreness following exercise.  Exercising in the water can help bone density: The resistance of the water just from physical movement places a demand on the skeletal system, causing a load on the bones. Once the bones are subjected to this stress they are forced to respond and increase muscle tension. This entire process results in stronger and denser bones. Overweight people: Aquatic exercise would seem to offer the safest and most protective environment for these individuals because of the buoyancy effects of immersion, which minimizes the risk of joint injury.

 

Cost: $199.00 for the complete system available for purchase on www.fluidrunning.com

 

Jennifer Conroyd is the founder of Fluid Running, a deep water running fitness company.   Jennifer is an A.C.E. certified personal trainer, a USATF certified coach, and has an Exercise in Medicine credential from ACSM. Jennifer is an accomplished athlete having completed the Ironman and has run 16 marathons, qualifying for the Boston Marathon 15 times.   Jennifer created Fluid Running after an injury left her unable to run in preparation for the 2010 Chicago Marathon.  She ran exclusively in deep water for the six weeks leading up to the race, and not only finished that marathon but qualified for the Boston Marathon.  Fluid Running offers group classes that Men’s Journal voted one of the Best Workouts in America. She was named a finalist for the 2018 Women in Tech Founders award. Jennifer is a graduate of Miami University. She resides in Chicago and is the mom of three adult boys.

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