Romantic Gift Ideas from Renowned Matchmaker Samantha Daniels PLUS Her Tips on Dating and How to Meet “The One” [Video]

A romantic day calls for romantic gifts, and as a professional matchmaker and love guru I have some of the best insider gift picks for a day of amour.

Enid Collins Love Wooden Box Bag, BUY NOW, $425
If your Valentine likes one of a kind items that make other people say “where did you get that?,” a vintage bag is a great idea. Each one is special because you might not be able to find another. Make sure you know your lover’s style- for the ladies try something like the Enid Collins Love bag.

Heather Benjamin LA Ocean Jasper Mix Ring, BUY NOW, $405
Rings are tricky on Valentine’s Day, especially if she is expecting THE ring. If she is, and you aren’t ready, stay CLEAR of rings and all jewelry, but if she isn’t and loves a real conversation starter piece, go with a cocktail ring from Heather Benjamin LA. The designer’s mix of shells, stones and sand dollars is spectacular and your Valentine will be swept off her feet with this Ocean Jasper Mix ring.

Serene House Mist Whistler, BUY NOW, $299.95
Diffusers are so yesterday and if you want to buy something that not only smells delicious but looks great, try the Mist Whistler Scentilizer. By diffusing fragrant water vapors, it reduces the dryness of indoor air and even has a built in music player- talk about love at first smell!

Anywhere Fireplace Oasis, BUY NOW, $109.99
If you are dating someone who has everything, it’s great to pick something unique. An indoor fireplace is a wonderful way to warm a room and the mood, and Anywhere Fireplace has plenty of chic styles to choose from.

Art Style Innovation Graphic Bookends, BUY NOW, $110
If your sweetie is a literature lover, pick up these special bookends from Art Style Innovation. These handmade acrylic bookends are playful and fun and come in nine different designs and ten different shades to choose from.

A special note on cards– When picking them out, be sure to choose cards that “match” the status of your relationship. This means if you’ve only been together a few weeks, don’t go all lovey-dovey, opt for something humorous instead. If you are in something more serious or have been together for a considerable amount of time, its great to grab more than one card, one of which should be sentimental. And don’t forget to write a message from the heart, Valentine’s Day is a great opportunity to let someone know you care, so don’t be shy, go ahead and share!

For the best dating tips and how to meet “the one,” check out our exclusive video interview with Samantha Daniels.

 

Samantha Daniels is a professional matchmaker, television, personality, author, entrepreneur and founder of Samantha’s Table, a matchmaking service. A former matrimonial attorney, in 1999 Daniels left the world of divorce behind and founded her matchmaking service in New York City, quickly expanding to elite clientele on the west coast.In 2004 Daniels life became the basis for NBC’s hit show Miss Match starring Alicia Silverstone. Daniels a writer for The Huffington Post and in 2005 authored Matchbook: the Diary of a Modern-Day Matchmaker.

Be on the Cutting Edge of Style with Cool Cuffs, Bangles and Rings

I love to accessorize my outfits with cuffs, bangles and rings. Here are my favorite picks that will surely add some serious style and edge to your look:

Eddie Borgo Bear Trap Bangles, BUY NOW, $490
The set of three silver-plated brass bracelets are a perfect balance of rebellion and luxury. I love their versatility and they can be worn interlocked as one piece or reversed for added edge. The Eddie Borgo collection began with a request from designer Phillip Lim to create jewelry for his runway show and has since boomed. The collection retails in over 90 stores worldwide and has a huge cult following including celebs such as Blake Lively and Katy Perry.

Alexander McQueen Snakeskin and Brass Wrap Bracelet, BUY NOW, $315
I am a fan all things McQueen including the fab jewelry line with his signature skull detail. This midnight blue and black snakeskin wrap bracelet make it perfect for pairing with other gold accessories and really stands out against neutral palettes. The Swarovski crystal skull charm adds a pop of rock and roll.

Alexis Bittar Sugar Dust Bangle, BUY NOW, $295
These hand sculpted and hand painted Sugar Dust Bangles are gorgeous and have just the right amount of sparkle to dress up any look, day or night. Bittar got his start by selling antique jewelry and vintage clothing on the streets of lower Manhattan and is now collaborating with Burberry, Michael Kors and stylist Patricia Field. He also recently custom designed a lucite mask for Lady Gaga. No wonder he won the prestigious CFDA’s Accessory Designer of the Year award in 2010!

Kara Ross Pyramid Ring, BUY NOW, $290
From the Pyramid collection, this Sterling Silver ring boasts a geometric style with sleek lines and smooth detail that reflects light with every move. They are also made with a variety of gemstones (I personally love the Mother of Pearl version). Kara Ross is an expert jewelry designer, certified gemologist and has recently added wood crafter to her impressive resume; having been asked to create exclusive gifts for President Obama and First Lady made out of Magnolia wood that originated from the White House lawn! A pyramid ring by Kara Ross was recently worn by Golden Globe winner Jessica Lange, and other celeb fans include Hilary Swank, Anne Hathaway and Oprah.

My Halloween Style: Edgy and Chic Skull Accessories

For years I have been into skull accessories, so in the spirit of Halloween I selected five of my favorites to share with you!

I pretty much wear this ring every day on my index finger and it seems that everyone who likes it, buys one for themselves.  The positioning of the skulls make it very subtle and understated so a great option if you want to keep your inner Goth under wraps.

Buy Now, Alexander McQueen Twin Skull Ring, $195

My daughter Rachel and I were perusing Urban Outfitters for family holiday gift ideas and found this skull wine stopper.  Priced right and makes a great stocking stuffer.

Buy Now, Urban Outfitters Bottle Stopper Skull, $12

I can’t help selecting another accessory from Alexander McQueen.  I saw this scarf and love the lavender skulls (I am currently obsessed with all things purple).  The cashmere will keep your neck warm this winter!

Buy Now, Alexander McQueen Pink Petal Skull Scarf Pashmina, $595

Rachel and I popped into Kitson on a quick shopping excursion when we were in LA a few weeks ago.  We found this this cool mirror which now hangs in her room.  I love it too!

Buy Now, Kitson Skull Mirror Mosaic, $38

I think these cuff links are so hip and masculine.  They are great for the male who is a bit rock and roll or biker chic.

Buy Now, Ralph Lauren Enamel Skull Cufflinks, $450

Buy Nicky Hilton “Bryant Park” Sterling Silver White Jade Ring, $120

Buy Nicky Hilton “Bryant Park” Sterling Silver White Jade Ring, $120 Cushion shape stone cubic zirconia Edgy oversized cocktail ring Shop the Full Story: Look Fab for The Fourth of July

Buy Sadee Says 3-finger Serpent Ring, $104

 

Buy Sadee Says 3-finger Serpent Ring, $104 Vintage-inspired Wear this multi-finger ring and be ahead of the fashion curve this summer Shop the Full Story: Chic Jewelry for the Summer: Melissa’s Favorites

Buy Diamond Rose Vermeil “Fleur De Lis” Ring, $359.90

Buy Diamond Rose Vermeil “Fleur De Lis” Ring, $359.90 Open fleur-de-lis design pavé-set with round black diamonds Round white diamonds pavé-set in center of ring and on split shoulders Shop the Full Story: Everything You Need to Know About Jewelry This Summer: Carol Brodie Shares Her Best Kept Secrets

Everything You Need to Know About Jewelry this Summer:
Carol Brodie Shares Her Best-Kept Secrets

From Harry Winston to HSN, Carol Brodie has accumulated a vast knowledge of information and celebrity style tips. Her virtual jewelry boutique, Rarities Fine Jewelry with Carol Brodie, can be found on HSN as can her monthly visits which feature roughly 35 to-die-for new styles at affordably fabulous price points. If you are dreaming about wearing everything on Barney’s first floor… dream no more. Carol’s collection is chock full of her favorites… which are bound to become yours. Here are her tips for summer-fabulous sparkle:

What are the best investment pieces for this summer?

Blackened jewelry will be all the rage this fall, so how about starting now by buying pieces that pair gold and silver such as the Champagne Diamond Vermeil Disc-Shaped Earrings. The Indian Mughal Dyansty was the inspiration for these earrings which celebrate the sun and the treasures of the earth. A long layering necklace is so important all year long… try this one to update every summer mini and maxi. And don’t forget the cuffs… worn single or by the pair, cuffs always provide the necessary extreme makeover!

Buy Now, Champagne Diamond Vermeil Disc-Shaped Earrings, $3169.90
Buy Now, Smoky Quartz “Circles” Necklace, $849.90
Buy Now, Gemstone and Enamel “Dragonfly” Cuff Bracelet, $519.90

What is the one piece of jewelry that you never take off?

My obsession with the evil eye and hamsa hand go way back to summer holidays in Israel and Greece. My diamond evil eyes have so much become my signature that I am just launching my first ever Swiss-Made timepiece with the iconic design brilliantly sparkling on the dial. You can never wear too many talismans and I always suggest that the hamsa and evil eye should be worn together for maximum style and protection.

Buy Now, Champagne Diamond “Hamsa” Bangle Bracelet, $129.90
Buy Now, Blue Lapis and Sapphire “Evil Eye” Charm Bracelet, $224.90

What do you suggest we do to clean our jewelry in the summer?

My favorite summer secret is the jewelry bath. Gemstone and diamond jewelry gets dirty very quickly with sunscreens, soap and moisturizers. Mix the solution: 1 part ammonia, 1 part dishwashing liquid and 2 parts warm water. Bathe your jewelry (except woods, opaque gems and pearls) 10-15 minutes and use a soft tooth brush to gently wipe away the dirt. Rinse with cool water and pat dry with a soft cloth. Your jewelry will sparkle like new. For all other jewelry like coral, turquoise, wood and pearls, use a soft damn cloth to clean away the residues that are dulling the pieces.

Can we wear gold and silver together?

One of my favorite things to do is to mix and match my jewelry – old and new alike. I love to layer. I start with an antique piece or one that is black rhodium accented. I layer in yellow gold, rose gold and silver pieces to create a thoroughly modern look. Don’t be scared to experiment… I wear every color and texture of gold and silver as long as I have one estate or oxidized piece to pull it all together like this Diamond Rose Vermeil “Fleur De Lis” Ring.

Buy Now, Diamond Rose Vermeil “Fleur De Lis” Ring, $359.90

I know you love to layer, any tips?

One of the things I’ve learned is to keep jewelry in PROPORTION. Choose one big piece and build from there. If you are wearing a chandelier or a long earring, choose a long necklace – 30 inches or more – to compliment the look and keep everything in proportion. Long and layered is a great way to get a big look while still wearing fine jewelry. Cuffs are my personal obsession, but when you wear them I would skip the rings and keep the focus on an important earring. With bead bracelets or bangles, the more the merrier. Stack them up half way to your elbow for drama and impact!

Buy Now, Cultured Freshwater Pearl 37″ Necklace, $589.90

I lost my favorite earring at the beach, any suggestions?

Repurpose your jewelry — there is nothing worse than the single or ORPHAN EARRING lying at the bottom of your jewelry box. If you have lost an earring with sentimental or monetary value, take the other to your local, jewelry repair shop and have them turn your orphan earring into a pendant, charm or ring.

Buy Now, Diamond Vermeil “Peace/Snake” Pendant, $279.90

To see everything presented on air you can tune in to watch Carol Brodie on HSN on Sunday, June 19th from 11am – 2pm and again at 9pm on Sunday night. Be sure to check out HSN.com and order your favorite pieces on line. Styles sell out very quickly and she does not bring them back as they are true Rarities!

The road from Harry Winston to HSN was pavéd in diamonds… Carol Brodie, International Jewelry Expert and host of Rarities: Fine Jewelry with Carol Brodie on HSN, has transformed her career from luxury to HSN working with some of the world’s most exclusive brands along the way.Under the leadership of CEO Mindy Grossman, Brodie joined HSN in 2009 where she delivers a message of empowerment combined with a profound knowledge and expertise of jewelry to women of all ages. Leveraging the power of social media and her on-air success, Brodie has been able to reinvent herself from a luxury branding expert and advisor into an electronic superstar becoming one of the top-sellers in the fine jewelry category and gaining a loyal and devoted following of fans and consumers. Prior to joining HSN, Carol was Chief Luxury Officer of CurtCo Media, publisher to a family of titles targeted to the world’s most affluent readers including Robb Report, Worth, Showboats International and Art & Antiques. In this exclusive position, Brodie lead strategic partnerships, special events, promotions and targeted marketing and public relations initiatives to position CurtCo’s most influential magazines as the voice of the international luxury marketplace. Prior to joining CurtCo, Brodie was Global Director of Communications for world-renowned jeweler Harry Winston. During her eight years there, Brodie was credited with expanding the reach and image of the old-world brand to appeal to a younger clientele and introducing the concept of red-carpet dressing. In addition to her work with some of the world’s most prominent brands, Carol Brodie is a sought-after speaker at conferences worldwide on subjects ranging from luxury marketing to international branding. She is also a recognized media personality appearing as a correspondent on Extra, as a style expert on E! Style Court and ABC’s Extreme Makeover as well as frequent appearances on The Bachelor, The Today Show, Good Morning America, CBS This Morning, Entertainment Tonight, Access Hollywood, Inside Edition, Today in New York, CNBC, CNN and Martha Stewart Weddings earning her the moniker: ‘The Queen of Luxury’. In 2004, Kiplinger’s named Brodie The Queen of Diamonds a name that has defined her expertise in the fine jewelry industry. Previous to joining Harry Winston in 1997, Brodie spent four years as a partner at award-winning advertising agency J. Walter Thompson, where she managed the Diamond Information Center on behalf of De Beers Consolidated Mines. Not just limited to diamonds, Ms. Brodie has helped build luxury and beauty brands such as Barnes and Noble, Faberge, Ivanka Trump, Clairol, Revlon Professional Products, Maybelline, Matrix and Gucci Timepieces. Ms. Brodie’s personal interests involve philanthropy, gemology and international travel. She maintains positions on the committees of several prominent charities including The Boy’s and Girl’s Club, The Chron’s & Colitis Foundation of America and the Food Allergy Initiative. She resides in Fairfield, Connecticut, Palm Beach, Florida and Manhattan, New York with her two children, Noah and Grant.

 

 

Chic Jewelry for the Summer – Melissa’s Favorites

I LOVE jewelry and am always looking for a great new find.  This summer, I’m lusting after pieces that aren’t fussy or overly fancy, and with many options under $75, it’s easy to accessorize.  Summer is the time to be carefree, so simple summer style is about wearing fabulous pieces that you can pair with everything in your wardrobe.

Lulu Frost Navette Tassel Necklace, $325
I’m a big fan of long necklaces.  This antique brass one is easy to wear for summer. I love that the oversized swarovski crystal flower pendant has a glass pearl center. It looks great with a solid maxi dress and sandals.

Citrine by the Stones Provocateur Earrings, $160
This brand has a ton of fun jewelery and these earrings are total outfit makers.  Wear them during the day with jean shorts and a white tank and your hair pulled up in a messy ponytail or at night with a dress and sleek pulled back hair.

Alexis Bittar Crystal Encrusted Gold Pool Ring, $255
Alexis Bitar’s baubles are true works of art and this ring is no exception.  An oversized cocktail ring is the perfect conversation starter at a chic summer nighttime event.

Sadee Says 3-finger Serpent Ring, $104
Snake jewelry is a favorite of mine and very vintage-inspired.  Wear this multi-finger ring and be ahead of the fashion curve this summer.

Kelly Gerber Grey Croco Leather Cuff, $375
Chunky bracelets are on trend this season.  This one is casual enough for everyday wear.  Crocodile adds a cool nod to safari style which is always hot for summer.

Under $75:

Rachel Rachel Roy Earrings, Three Tier Drop Hoop, $46
Hoop earrings are every girl’s summer staple.  This is an interesting take on the basic hoop earring.  I would keep them on all summer!

Calypso for Target Necklace with Rosary Beads, $39.99
Calypso is known for summery fashion, and their new line for Target does not disappoint.  This necklace looks great with everything.  It’s an accessory you’ll wear all summer long.

Urban Metal Feather Cuff Bracelet, $20
Nothing says summer like nature-inspired jewelry.  Urban Outfitters has lots of boho chic accessories like this leaf bracelet which comes in both silver and gold.  I always stack my bracelets so this would make a great addition for a layered look.

Vanessa Mooney Wrap Bracelet, $64
Vanessa Mooney is a fave of celebrities like Katie Holmes and Vanessa Hudgens.  All summer jewelry should be as easy to wear with a tank and jeans as this wrap bracelet.  It comes in tons of great colors, too!

Skinny by Jessica Elliot Ring, $45
Skinny by Jessica Elliot is another celeb favorite worn by Rihanna, Pink and many others.  I’m obsessed with these two finger rings that come in lots of fantastic summer brights.  They look great with a tan and a manicure!

Buy Rosena Sammi Jewelry Princely Ring, $145

Buy Rosena Sammi Jewelry Princely Ring, $145, at rosenasammi.com  Seen on Rihanna: large cocktail ring. Command a room with this square-shaped, vintage-inspired cocktail ring.  It’s adjustable and comes in black, green, and red. Shop the Full Story: Celebrity Closet: Jewelry Edition

Frangos Saved by the Bell Ring: Put a Ring on It!

As a sucker for statement jewelry and art, I always find the perfect buy in a funky cocktail ring. As soon as I saw this ring by Frangos, I could not stop thinking about it! Not only is it colorful and sparkly thanks to the generous serving of Swarovski crystals, but it is full-on drama. Paired with a brightly colored nail polish, this ring will be the star of any look.—Katrina Caspelich

Buy Saved by the Bell by Frangos| Charm & Chain, $128, at charmandchain.com