Dave and I just got back from a week in LA. We went to a beautiful wedding, which I’ll tell you all about later this week. While we were in town I visited a number of shops and came across the
Bead Boutique on 3rd Street.
My mother and sister have been going there for years, and now I know why. The shop is filled with beautiful beads, charms and chains and the customer can design their own
necklaces,
earrings and
bracelets.
The store has a number of designs to help inspire you, or you can buy one the creations made by the store's owners, Pamela and Francesca.
In addition to making something for yourself – I made a double gold chain necklace with amethyst stones – you can
take a class on how to make jewelry.
For brides looking to create something special for each of their bridesmaids, I recommend making custom jewelry for each of your girls. If you don’t live in Southern California,
call the store and tell them what you want to do and they can help you create something special that your ‘maids are sure to wear again and again.
And while you're there, make something to wear on your honeymoon - there's no rule that you can't buy yourself a a wedding present.
What are you giving your bridesmaids?
I dislike the video proposal idea. To have him kneeling in front of me and then silent as I watch a quick film....no thank you. I want to hear him say the words and maybe stutter or get emotional as he does. Feels a little detached to me.
Many bead stores offer classes. If you live in or near a metro area, find a store near you and inquire.
I was recently a bridesmaid in my friends wedding and she gifted us ornate silver jewelry boxes that were engraved with our names. The boxes also played a wonderful melody when you open them up. I think this was a great idea. Very personal and thoughtful.
Three years ago, I designed and trademarked flip flop heart pendants that many brides, especially those having beach weddings or simply loving the beach, have been thrilled to give their attendants. They come in sterling silver or silver or gold-plate, with or without crystals. The cost is very reasonable, especially for the plated pendants; and each comes in its own box, beautifully presented and ready to give your special bridesmaids as a remembrance of your wedding day.
Please check out my site at bobbie@theflipflopheart.com.
Thanks,
Bobbie