My guests are,
- Joan Vogel Elias of Absolutely Vintage
- Margot Gray of AspenCountry.com
- Monya Meadows of Bellissimo Gifts
- Debra of Earstrings
- Georgene of Heartbeat Designs
What types of jewelry or other gifts are traditionally the most popular for Valentine's Day?
Monya: We find that men's bracelets are really hot right now as well as our amethyst and garnet rings for women. Designer watches are also very popular. Our silver jewelry by Anixi is a wonderful seller throughout the year, but is always a favorite as we approach Valentine's Day.Debra: Hearts are always popular Valentine's Day jewelry. Dangles are fun and playful. To see the latest trends, pay attention to media events or award shows. Movies or television shows with underlying romantic themes generally reflect the popularity of a particular style or look. Ultimately, what works is what you like.
Be sure to make the gift personal. Please, no blenders, food processors, toasters or any other utilitarian items unless there is a special story that accompanies them. The kind of story that, a year from now, she will recall with a smile.
Margot: Heart-shaped jewelry is a classic gift that women appreciate any time of the year, not just for Valentine's Day. Hearts are the universal symbol of love, and heart jewelry is appropriate for daughters, wives, mothers, and grandmothers. How could a guy go wrong by giving the ladies in his life sentimental jewelry?
Joan: Vintage jewelry is very popular. Charms and charm bracelets are hot sellers, along with chunky rings. You can't go wrong with anything romantic, such as heart pins and lockets, rose or flower bouquet jewelry, bows and cupids. Jewelry keeps its luster long after the flowers and candy are gone.
Georgene: A heart design is classic, and will always be the most popular choice for Valentine's Day because it is the universal symbol of love. Toggle heart and Swarovski crystal gemstone bracelets are two popular choices.
What's your Number One tip for Valentine's Jewelry?
Monya: Guys who are purchasing jewelry should have a good feel for their Valentine's tastes. Listen when she expresses her likes and dislikes when looking at jewelry. Does she lean towards simple and elegant or is her look bold and flamboyant?Debra: Be thoughtful. It's not about the money you can spend, nor the jewelry you would like to see her wear. Ask yourself what this gift will mean to her. As Valentines Day fades away, will she still wear your gift or will it wind up in the drawer with all the other jewelry that just didn't fit her personality or style?
Margot: When a woman makes a comment that she likes something it doesn't necessarily mean she wants to own it. Here's an example: A male customer recently returned a 3-foot tall Black Lab Retriever sculpture he thoughtfully purchased for his wife for Christmas. She had commented to him how much she liked a similar sculpture at the airport. The poor guy was absolutely stunned and shocked when his wife told him that his gift looked menacing. I suggested to him that women like jewelry, sentimental items, high-end cooking gadgets, and flowers. He really appreciated the advice.
Joan: Think creatively. How about a small box of chocolates with a lovely heart pin or ring replacing a piece or two of candy? If you're planning a night out, try pin romantic brooch on her coat as a surprise. And for the man in your life, how about show or sports tickets held together with a vintage money clip, or antique cuff links for his favorite dress shirt.
Georgene: Gentlemen should take notice of the jewelry their ladies like to wear as well as the items they compliment others on. Does she prefer sterling silver, platinum or 14K yellow gold? Does she like petite or bold size styles? If possible, look through her jewelry box to get an idea of her tastes in jewelry.
Is there anything else you can add to help our readers choose the best gift for their Valentine?
Monya: I think any jewelry gift is appreciated when it comes from someone you love.Debra: Whatever the holiday, shop in advance. Running out to the mall or local shopping center on the day of the holiday will not make her feel nearly as appreciated as when you surprise her first thing in the morning with a wrapped gift that has been hidden away. By planning ahead, you show her how important she is and that she's not just a part of your last minute things to do list. The timing can be as important as the gift itself.
Margot: There are some men who simply will not consider buying jewelry or flowers. If that's you, try decorator items within a theme your lady enjoys. If a woman has decorated her kitchen with a rooster clock, rooster tea set and rooster sculptures for her cookbook shelf you have a real good clue what she might like.
Men should remember that lingerie is for the man, not the woman he is purchasing it for. However, if a woman gives a man boxers with hearts all over them, they are a gift for the guy!
Joan: Look for quality in design and workmanship, no matter what the price range; most importantly, buy only what you love.
Georgene: For Valentine's Day I think it's important that a gift comes from the heart, because the ladies want something that says I love you. There's nothing that conveys that sentiment to a woman louder and clearer than jewelry.
Carly's Tip
Charm bracelets change in looks over time, but never go out of style. You can select from thousands of charms, so some will surely have a special significance to your Valentine. Choose a traditional, classic charm bracelet or try a modular Italian charm bracelet for a more contemporary look.
