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[et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text”]Love is still in the air.The latest collection from Simon Ardem–the Stella Bridal Collection–is an homage to the co-founder’s wedding in Venice nineteen years ago, drawing inspiration from the architectural wonders of the city.
This husband and wife team, Ardem and Cynthia Aslanian have been running Simon Ardem for thirty years. They both have extensive backgrounds in fine arts and in diamond jewelry and collaborate on every piece in order to create quality rings with tasteful designs, ultimately creating exceptional jewelry for your every need.
Ardem and Cynthia Aslanian FoundersThe collection features engagement rings and wedding bands made from platinum and rose gold as well as a variety of different diamond cuts, everything from emerald to princess.
The Bovolo engagement ring is a square, Asscher cut platinum ring. Inspired by the Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo in Venice, Ardem Aslanian describes it as “an architectural jewel translated into a wedding jewel.”
Several of the pieces in the collection find their designs inspired by the architecture of Venice. Of this, Ardem says, “Venice stands out as one of the most unique places in Italy, not just for the canals it’s famous for, but for its rich history in the arts. The craftsmanship of its city and architecture has stood the test of time. Our inspiration for the Stella Bridal collection pays homage to this beautiful Italian city.”
The Dandolo engagement ring–named after Venetian Doge Enrico Dandolo–is made from 18k rose gold. It is set with a round, brilliant diamond on a band of pink diamonds.
The Loredan ring takes its name from the House of Loredan, a Venetian political dynasty that can trace its origins back hundreds of years. It features an oval-cut diamond set in platinum prongs on a delicate 18k rose gold band.
In addition to four unique engagement rings, this new collection also features several wedding bands. The Galleon, one such eternity band, can be purchased with either emerald or oval cut diamonds set in platinum.
Of the choice to use rose gold and platinum as the main colors that make up this collection, co-founder Cynthia Aslanian says, “The warm pink tone of rose gold is a perfect complement to pure platinum, adding a unique twist to this timeless collection.”
To purchase items from this collection and to see more of the beautiful work created by Simon Ardem, visit their website or follow them on Instagram![/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column]
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Do you recall the day you got ready for marriage? Perhaps you recollect the day consummately, or possibly it’s simply an upbeat haze. Regardless of whether that day was a year back, five years prior, or 25 years prior, such countless things have changed. You’ve lived better places, held various positions, made new companions, and possibly began a family together. Through it all, your adoration for one another has just developed.
Why Upgrade Your Engagement Ring?
There are a lot of extraordinary reasons to redesign your wedding ring. Rings go all through design, styles change, and your life changes too. Your ring may have been ideal for you two when you originally got ready for marriage. Yet, now it probably won’t appear very as ideal. What’s more, regarding something as significant as your wedding ring, for what reason be smug? Why not have the ring you’ve been longing for? Replace it with something like jewelry stores in downtown NYC which is the latest and up to current trends and expensive to solidify your love for one another even more.
https://willyou.net/diamonds
Here are only a couple of the numerous reasons that motivate many couples to update their wedding rings.
1- Your Budget May Have Changed
Numerous individuals get connected with their future life partners when they’re in their 20s. In reality, not every person follows this example, but rather many do. This implies that a huge segment of couples is getting connected when their funds are not amazingly steady. Their livelihoods are relatively lower.
Maybe this implies that you didn’t have the financial plan for the dazzling ring you’d generally needed when you initially began. Yet, presently perhaps you’ve been hitched a couple of years. Your livelihoods are somewhat higher. Through and through, you’re in a more monetarily stable spot than you used to be. So now it is a good time to get the wedding ring you always wanted.
2- Your Ring May Have Gone outdated.
It’s an obvious fact that styles go back and forth like the seasons. What may have been the tallness of design when you get hitched may, at this point don’t be in style. Even though the ring is still as imperative to you as anyone might imagine, there’s nothing amiss with choosing it should be refreshed with the occasions.
Every Spring downtowner’s look at the marina to test the seasons, when we see the boats in Brookfield Marina, we know it’s time to get out for the warmer weather. The winter blues are removed and quickly forgotten.
This year was sad for many as we did not see our local marina buzzing with boats and movement. I can assure you that the minute we saw your sailboat (Tribeca Sailing – Tara) smiles and hope was on everyone’s mind, and it was time to book our Staycation.
Tribeca Sailing
We had the pleasure of catching up with Captain Dave Founder of Tribeca Sailing. Our COO Luigi and I were his guests on Tara, oh yes, she is a beautiful as her name. “one of only five 1964 Hinckley Custom Pilot 35s and is the prettiest sailboat in all of New York City.” Captain Dave
I’ve never been on this size sailboat, at first I was a little concerned but as we left the marina, Captian Dave, handled her like a newborn babe. The sails were up and we were underway.
It was our first sail of the season, and certainly set the standard for others to follow. Captain, is funny, charming, and extremely knowledgeable. He is a true Captain and follows all the rules ensuring his guest’s safety.
No one can know what will come of COVID-19 and or when we will return to “normal life”, one thing is for sure, we live in the greatest city in the world and more so the best area in all of New York. It’s like being on vacation 365 days of the year, we are blessed to have met Tara and Captain Dave.
We give them both 10 out of 10 Sails.
DTM: How difficult was this delay for your business? DC: As a unique small family business and living in downtown Manhattan I spent my time watching our governor and waiting for the curve to flatten. As Spring approached, I would have started working on my sailboat Tara for an April 1st opening but instead, I stayed home and did my part to stay healthy and help our essential workers.
The most difficult part of the delay in opening was a financial hardship. Tourism is a large part of my pre-season bookings and due to COVID 19 travel plans were canceled and I was refunding almost all pre-booked charters. (I changed my policy to give full refunds due to the pandemic.) My business relies on pre-bookings to pay bills. Bookings stop but bills continued.
DTM: Who makes the decision for the marina to open? DC: Marinas were considered essential and access to North Cove Marina was permitted. During the stay- at- home order North Cove was primarily used by NYPD Harbor Patrol and perhaps a transient boater as a leg (stopover) of their cruising journey. They left it up to me to decide when I wished to return.
Tribeca Sailing
DTM: What comments have you heard the most once you were back at the marina.? DC: On May 28 I arrived back to North Cove Marina to my seasonal docking slip. It was a beautiful day and NYers were out on the promenade. As the joggers and dog walkers passed I got lots of thumbs up and comments like “Great to see you back!!!”, “Tara looks fantastic”, “The first boat back gives me hope”, “When will you open I need to get out of my house!”. I was so happy to bring Tara back and the positive energy gave me hope for NYC and for my business.
DTM: You’re the only boat we see now, is there a reason other are not coming back? DC: As Phase, I approached I returned to North Cove Marina to be prepared to start the season. This decision was not easy, as North Cove Marina is a premier marina in such a unique location, and a seasonal business slip is very costly. I am rolling the dice that NYers will take advantage of a staycation and want to go sailing and book a charter with Tribeca Sailing.
The marina is a mix of seasonal tour businesses, personal boat owners, and transients. The tour business charter companies are a close community and we speak frequently. Due to the dockage costs, lack of tourism, and corporate business bookings many of these charter companies are uncertain when they will reopen as they rely on this revenue to pay for their dockage. Transient boaters usually visit the marina to take advantage of NYC in the warm weather along with wonderful restaurants and shopping. This will hopefully be during the next few phases of opening and you can be certain I will be waiting on the dock to welcome them when they arrive.
Tribeca Sailing
DTM: What hours are you open for sail and how do client’s book? DC: Tribeca Sailing sails five times a day, seven days a week at 10 am, 12:30 pm, 3 pm, 6 pm, and 8:15 pm. Longer sails are available on request. The easiest way to book is by clicking the following link and booking on-line.
DTM: What changes should your customers expect and what protective procedures have you put into place if required? The number of people per sail, social distancing, etc? DC: I have been following the local authorities and adjusting accordingly. I have purchased extra masks, hand sanitizer, and disinfectant spray/wipes.
Three major changes are now in effect:
Private Charters Only. Per Person, booking is no longer available.
Pricing based on; 1-3 guests or 4 to 6 guests
All passengers must arrive wearing masks and all social distancing requirements apply.
Extra masks will be provided if needed.
“Tara” is wiped down with disinfectant before and after each sail and hand sanitizer is available. Every night the boat is cleaned with a CDC recommended disinfectant.
Tribeca Sailing
DTM: What has been the most difficult thing about this situation for you, and your business?
DC: As a small business with limited resources it is challenging to get the word out to the local resident, we are open for business for a perfect staycation. I rely a lot on my Trip Advisor ratings for referrals and I am grateful for repeat local customers but because tourism is limited bookings are soft. We are a hidden secret and it is time to get the word out.
As NYC re-opens, I am hoping to find locals and day visitors starting to venture into NYC to book an intimate sail around the harbor with Tribeca Sailing. Some might hesitate for a bit, but I am optimistic the locals will want to be outside and finally enjoy this beautiful weather on the water. The most frequent statement I hear is: “I never knew this existed in NYC and I can’t wait to tell my friends and family.” I know you are out there……….
DTM: Is there a silver lining for you from this pandemic?
DC: As a downtown resident I have seen the community come together and support the local neighborhood businesses. I think it is important to maintain a community and watch out for each other. The silver lining is knowing NYC will be back as it is still the greatest city in the world and has even a better view from the water. With the lack of ferries sailing in the harbor is a dream to sail with no traffic and no wakes!
Tribeca Sailing
DTM: As we are now hopefully on the downslope of this battle in New York, and discussions have turned to open up our economy, what are your concerns about that and what would you like to see happen, both in society at large and in your regular work environment?
DC: People need to continue to be aware of personal space and their environment. I am proud of how NYC responded to reduce this virus and worked to adhere to the government requirements. Small businesses continue to need support from the community for survival. Please do not ask for a discount, save that question for the larger companies. Go the extra mile and share your experience on social media and refer your friends and family, or just buy a gift certificate. Small acts of kindness will help NYC survive and bounce back as small businesses are its backbone.
DTM: What do you miss most about pre-COVID New York City? DC: As a long time, NYC resident, I miss the energy that the city provides including the tourist that flock to downtown. As a foodie who misses the great restaurant options in NYC, I can not wait to go back to my favorites which I have also listed on my website.
DTM: Tell us how you got into sailing?DC: When I was 16 years old my mom received a phone call from a friend who was looking for crew for a sailboat race and asked if I would be interested. When she asked me about going, I refused to say “Sailing sounds boring”. She made me go anyway and that race changed my life. Falling in love with the sport, I raced sailboats for the next 30 years. I never thought I would turn that passion into a viable business.
DTM: During your time aboard Tara, Captain David will share facts about New York City, stories about personal experiences, and expert sailing techniques. In short, Captain David wants you to have a good time. He’s a United States Coast Guard Licensed, Master. (Anything you want to add)
DC: As a real NYer I like to bring a local personal aspect to my charters. I love telling stories and giving little known tidbits about the sights and not just a canned speech. People are always asking me about restaurant recommendations and I have devoted an entire section on my website to help them by budget, cuisine, and location.
DTM: What do you like to do in your spare time?
DC: Tribeca Sailing season starts April 1st through the end of November. During the off-season, Tara requires maintenance and winterization. This is also the perfect time to work on website updates etc. When not working on the boat I like to take advantage of new restaurants, go to the theater, and visit museums especially when they are holding a special event that I find interesting.
DTM: What do you love about living in Lower Manhattan?
DC: I love that Battery Park City is so beautiful and tranquil also the energy from visitors to the area. Although I am on the water all day, I still love walking along the promenade. Walking by Alexander Hamilton’s grave and through the Oculus makes me smile and reminds me that Lower Manhattan is such a unique and wonderful destination.
DTM: For anyone reading this who may have dreamed of becoming a ship Captain, what’s it like?
DC: Safety is paramount and thinking of that tropical destination is secondary. People always ask me what it would be like to sail long distances, my reply is that it is hard work. For example, you’re on three-hour shifts, sleep is hard as you are always moving, the food is so-so and then the storm comes in the middle of the night. The reality of being a ship Captain vs the dream is quite different. The reward comes when the wind is perfect, the sun is shining, my customers are a joy and laughter abounds. The great news is that this happens most of the time. I am incredibly lucky to have my passion as my way to earn a living.
DTM: Anything you would like to share with our readers we have not asked?
DC: I have had a very, special guest on board. I received an anonymous phone call asking if I was available to sail and was told to show up at 3 pm for a special guest. Next thing I know the Secret Service showed up and soon thereafter the Prime Minister of Canada Justin Trudeau and his wife Sophie came on board Tara. What an amazing sail we had. They sat on the bow (front of the boat) and enjoyed the spectacular sights of NY Harbor. Before they departed, we had a great personal conversation and they were gracious enough to allow a photo op. I had a real connection to them, and the memory will stay with me forever.
Other fun facts about Tribeca Sailing
over 200 successful engagements on board (and I still get teary-eyed when it happens)
location, location, location…always front and center for the Macy’s July 4th fireworks display.
“Tara” is one of only five 1964 Hinckley Custom Pilot 35s and is the prettiest sailboat in all of New York City.
Tara – Tribeca Sailing
Our Tours
Set sail on a private or semi-private tour of New York Harbor perfect for: Birthdays, Anniversaries, Engagements, Private Tours, Corporate Team Building
Location:
North Cove Marina 225 Liberty Street Corner of Liberty St. & South End Ave. Contact: Captain David Caporale Email: david@tribecasailing.com Phone: (917) 593-2281
They say that purchasing a diamond ring is one of the top ten most important purchases in a lifetime.According to Warren Buffet, choosing the person you give that ring to is the biggest decision you’ll ever make.
Will You Marry Me?
“I take thee to be my wedded husband/wife, to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, till death do us part.”Published in 1549, from the Book of Common Prayer.
https://www.cleanorigin.com/
These historical, eloquent words can be some of the most significant words you will ever say to your partner, in front of those you hold dear, as you slide on your (very soon to be) husband or wife’s wedding ring.
But, there’s another important ring to be purchased that symbolizes love and commitment way before you get to the chapel — the engagement ring.
An engagement ring signifies a special and specific time in one’s life and will forever be a cherished gift. So, you want to make sure it is something you or your partner will love from this day forward!
But with the environment, sustainability, and ethics at the forefront of so many individuals’ minds, how do you go about creating an ethical engagement ring?
The Diamond
There is no denying that diamonds are the best of the best. They outshine pearls and rubies, and there is no other piece of jewelry that sparkles like a diamond engagement ring.
And, although there used to be only one option for what kind of diamond you could buy, today’s couples now have the option between mined and lab-grown diamonds.
https://www.cleanorigin.com/
What’s a lab-grown diamond?
First and foremost, lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds, they are not fake, nor are they cubic zirconia. Lab-grown diamonds are grown using cutting edge technology that replicates the process which creates natural diamonds. The result? A diamond that is atomically and optically identical to a mined diamond.
Lab-created diamonds can sometimes be referred to as “synthetic” diamonds. While not technically an inaccurate term (although even the FTC discourages the use of it), the term “synthetic” may be the reason people believe lab-created diamonds are not the same as mined stones.
Are they flawless?
Once lab-created diamonds are grown, they go through the same process as mined diamonds in terms of cutting, polishing, and grading. Contrary to what some may think, they are not flawless and can be purchased using the same 4 C’s grading system as mined stones.
https://www.cleanorigin.com/
The goal of lab-grown diamonds isn’t to produce a flawless stone, it is simply to give consumers the ability to purchase a diamond that was 100% ethically sourced.
How much do they cost?
Due to their shortened supply chain, lab-grown diamonds can be up to 40% less expensive than the exact same stone (in terms of the 4 C’s) that was mined. This is a huge benefit to couples that are ring shopping on a budget, as they can get a bigger or better diamond for less than they would be able to afford when buying a mined stone.
The Setting
Once you’ve decided on your diamond, you’ll need to choose what it is going to sit in — AKA your setting. There are endless styles to choose from, but in general, they can be broken down into the following categories: solitaire, classic, halo, vintage, 3 stone, and modern. Each collection has its own feel and should align with the style of the future ring wearer. While your diamond might come down to a careful balance of cut, color, clarity, and carat, the setting will really just boil down to personal preference.
https://www.cleanorigin.com/
Recycled metals
Shopping for an ethical engagement ring is hard to do if the metals are not recycled. Just as there are negative effects of mining for diamonds, extracting metals is no different. When you buy from a company that uses recycled materials, you’re doing your part to cut down on the need for this unsustainable practice.
Bridal Sets
Another small, yet effective practice when done by many, is to purchase your engagement ring and wedding band together. Not only will this save you time down the line, but it will cut back the need for another shipment. Companies such as Amazon have implemented the option to have all your items shipped together and this is a very similar idea.
https://www.cleanorigin.com/
The Completed Ring
Now that you have your lab-grown diamond engagement ring made with recycled metals, it’s time to pop the question to the love of your life. But don’t stop your ethical journey with this purchase. Incorporate this ideology in your proposal, on your wedding day, and throughout life. Making small changes, like buying an ethical engagement ring, will eventually add up.
Analytics plays a crucial role in understanding which marketing techniques provide better ROI. But how will you understand which marketing technique is more successful? Your answer lies in the following questions.
Are you communicating with the correct target audience?
Does your marketing content reach the right group of people?
How many people from your target audience ask about your products and services?
How many of those people convert to customers?
Let’s break down these questions to understand why they are crucial for analyzing the performances of your marketing campaigns.
Engagement
Engaging with the correct audience is the first step toward a successful social media marketing campaign. Don’t go pitching utensils to dentists. That wouldn’t work at all. Instead, spend time in finding your target audience. It is tough to have a group of followers immediately after starting a company. You can rely on third-party websites that sell followers. Famoid is one of the popular companies that sell genuine followers. Ask them to spread your company’s brand name to their friends, colleagues, and relatives. It will help you build a laser-targeted audience quickly.
Photo by Kaboompics .com from Pexels
Reach
How do you know that your promotional video or image is reaching the right group of people? How do you calculate the number of viewers? This is where you need to analyze social media marketing metrics, such as likes, clicks, shares, and brand mentions. For example, compare two promotional posts based on the shares they get. Count how many people shared a video post. Then count the people who shared a post with an image or GIF. This helps you understand which marketing technique works better for your brand.
Leads
How many people inquired about your products and services after sharing your promotional posts? You not only need to make a list of these people but also send them reminders urging them to try your products. You can drive your sales by offering them discounts on their first purchase. Merely uploading a promotional post doesn’t end your marketing campaign. Tracking your leads is equally important. If you want a higher ROI for your promotional posts, don’t forget to send personalized messages to people who inquired about your products.
Potential customers like to feel noticed. A personalized message or email can go a long way toward making them feel special. This will help to convert your leads into customers.
Conversions
Which marketing technique or campaign provided the maximum number of conversions? Compare this metric to identify what type of campaign to use in the future. Yes, following the same promotional method and pattern can become monotonous. That’s when you can use your second-most successful marketing campaign. You need to list all your campaigns and their responses according to their success rates. This will help to find leads that are more likely to convert to regular customers.
Measuring your social media metrics will streamline your marketing campaigns. Instead of focusing on a lot of things, you can concentrate on a specific path that provides better ROI.
Welcome to the world of bridal fashion. After your engagement, you’ve been pondering about the perfect wedding gown. Choosing the right color, style or design can be a challenge to most people.
But not anymore!
Here’s a guide to help you choose the perfect wedding gown
Research Beforehand
Getting the perfect wedding gown takes time. Do your research, real weddings and Pinterest might be a good starting point.
Look for a gown that fits your body type and tone. For instance, if you’re athletic with a flat chest, search for a similar build model.
You’ve got a perfect idea of what you want your gown to look like. It’s time to accessorize it. Choose a Celine bag that’s matches your wedding outfit.
Have a Realistic Budget
Setting and sticking to a wedding budget guarantees the success of the event. Before you pin the diamond-encrusted gowns, take a look at your budget.
Not only does the budget narrow down your choices but it also hones your expectations in the process.
Carefully Choose Your Boutique
Don’t walk into any boutique you come across. Most of them will not have a lot of options to choose from and try on.
If possible, go to a specialist’s boutique for a more excellent choice and fantastic shopping experience. When you’re happy and confident, the entire exercise will be satisfying and memorable. It’ll stay with you forever.
When choosing a boutique, go for one that makes you feel special. Choosing a wedding dress is among the expensive purchases in a lifetime, the boutique should appreciate this fact.
Try on the Wedding Dresses
It’s advisable to try some dresses on before deciding the ones to buy. However, be mindful of the number of gowns you try on.
For instance, opting for three dresses might not give you a valuable comparison. Alternatively going for 15 wedding gowns might end up confusing you. If possible, try four to seven dresses.
Conclusion
It’s not easy to choose a perfect wedding gown. You’ll have several considerations to make. For instance, is the fabric okay, does it fit among other factors?
However, this article offers respite to those shopping for a gown. Follow this advice, and you’ll be sure of getting a wedding gown that makes you feel secure and confident about the purchase.
The Bovolo engagement ring is a square, Asscher cut platinum ring. Inspired by the Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo in Venice, Ardem Aslanian describes it as “an architectural jewel translated into a wedding jewel.”
Several of the pieces in the collection find their designs inspired by the architecture of Venice. Of this, Ardem says, “Venice stands out as one of the most unique places in Italy, not just for the canals it’s famous for, but for its rich history in the arts. The craftsmanship of its city and architecture has stood the test of time. Our inspiration for the Stella Bridal collection pays homage to this beautiful Italian city.”
The Dandolo engagement ring–named after Venetian Doge Enrico Dandolo–is made from 18k rose gold. It is set with a round, brilliant diamond on a band of pink diamonds.
The Loredan ring takes its name from the House of Loredan, a Venetian political dynasty that can trace its origins back hundreds of years. It features an oval-cut diamond set in platinum prongs on a delicate 18k rose gold band.
In addition to four unique engagement rings, this new collection also features several wedding bands. The Galleon, one such eternity band, can be purchased with either emerald or oval cut diamonds set in platinum.
Of the choice to use rose gold and platinum as the main colors that make up this collection, co-founder Cynthia Aslanian says, “The warm pink tone of rose gold is a perfect complement to pure platinum, adding a unique twist to this timeless collection.”
To purchase items from this collection and to see more of the beautiful work created by Simon Ardem, visit their website or follow them on Instagram![/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column]
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