Chateau Dale Blog

Jewelry with horses on it, otherwise known as horse jewelry, has fascinated people throughout the ages. Dating back to the most ancient of times, families and individuals would often incorporate the images of a horse on their most treasures possessions…including their jewelry. It was usually made from the most precious of metals and gems, such as silver, gold and of course, diamonds. Passed down from generation to generation, they were to become valuable keepsakes.Where did this practice come from? This desire to put a “mere animal” into beautiful jewelry that will be owned and loved and yes, shown to others? When we think of the horse it’s not hard to fathom. The horse is an animal with a number of desirable traits…traits that we all hope to possess in our own character. Some of these traits are:1) Strength – Horses have been asked to perform many of man’s most menial tasks. Consider the workhorses like the Clydesdale for example. They are powerful enough to pull the famous Budweiser wagons, and plow the fields as well. A piece of jewelry that incorporates the horse design will exude the strength and power of this animal. This type of gift is very popular amongst men.2) A Horse’s Grace. When you think of grace what come to mind? A horse? This is true for many people. If you watch a horse running along a field you see grace in action. Every fiber of their being seems focused on propelling this beautiful creature along. Beautifully streamlined, this magnificent creature has become the heart’s desire of many a young boy and girl. What happens if we add diamonds to the mix? We come up with a very special blend. Diamonds are also known for their class and elegance, and it’s a gem that marries perfectly with equestrian design.3) Nobility – What a noble creature the horse is. During the Middle Ages, knights decked out in full battle armor rode horses with the symbol of the horse incorporated into their shields. And how did the peasants get around? They walked along side their knights no horse, no armor, and no shield let alone one with a horse design. Let’s fast forward to our world today. People of high-ranking are often honored with horse jewelry, particularly gold brooches and medallions. Rings with the design of a horse’s head are often awarded to others as a sign of “higher social class” or “nobility”.We have left til now the main reason that people wear horse jewelry. Do you know what it is? It’s because they love this magnificent animal. Sure, like you and I, they have to go to work or school, shop or play, but that doesn’t mean that they can’t display their love of horses to the world.In future articles we will be detailing some of the finer examples of horse jewelry, and we hope you will join us. If you find that you “just can’t wait” for these items, please visit us on our blog.

Be sure to consider your budget before you let your imagination get the better of you. You want your wedding day to be one of celebration, not the day that you started your journey into financial disaster. Many people are surprised at the cost of a wedding cake. Keep in mind that you are asking an artisan to create a masterpiece for you, and this can often be reflected in the price that he/she will be charging. The cost of labor is often the largest expense in the creation of a wedding cake but keep in mind the simple fact that fondant is more expensive than buttercream.Have you thought about the staging of your masterpiece? Be sure to take the wedding cake stand into consideration during your planning phase. While some wedding cakes can be simply placed on flat boards (that will not be seen by the general public), others are elaborately displayed on beautiful stands for everyone to see. Keep in mind the simple fact that actual size of the table must be in proportion to the actual size of the cake. A table that is too small will make the cake look way too big, while a table that is too large will make it look like a mere cupcake. And before we forget, your cake table will need a beautiful covering (to compliment its strategic location at the wedding reception). Oh, and don’t forget the cake knife and cake server. There needs to be a place on the table for these two items as well.

For more info, visit us on our blog wedding cake toppers.

I’ve never met anyone who didn’t absolutely love MAC makeup products. I’ve heard of people who do like other brands, but I’ve never heard anyone actually complain about MAC. The only negative thing I’ve ever heard is from MAC snobs who complain that MAC has gone downhill since being taken over by Estee Lauder a while back. But, hello, these people still don’t think there is another brand out there that is better.

I usually feel pretty safe trying any of MAC’s cosmetics products. I haven’t really ventured out into their skin care line, or their fragrances. I usually like to get a makeover at the counter and have the makeup artist walk me through some simple makeup tips and techniques with a few new shades so that I can try some new looks at home and break out of my routine a little bit.

Once I’ve practiced my new looks, I feel happy that I have so many new options and things to try for a rainy day, or when I’m simply looking forward to a special occasion and want to do something new and exciting for that event.

Usually, people simply have great results with MAC, and they almost always get good advice from the makeup artists that work at the freestanding MAC stores as well as the MAC makeup counters. I’m glad I’ve found a brand I really trust and really like. And, it’s pretty affordable considering the quality and popularity of the product. What more could a beauty and makeup addict want? I can’t think of anything!

The second Arab Women’s leadership Forum, which was held in Dubai in January this year, was attended by almost 600 businesswomen from the different Arab countries. The one thing that was common among all these women was the fact that all were clad in abayas and portrayed the image of the perfect Muslim women. To the outsider, it may have appeared that these women were meek or subdued; however, in reality these women exuded very high levels of confidence.

The business women were seen in all types of abayas and the levels of enthusiasm and confidence that they displayed at the forum were in no way less than the chic and sophisticated businesswomen of the western world. In fact it seemed that the abayas gave them an added layer of strength and vitality that seemed to be pouring into the deliberations on the various business related discussions that were held. 

One of the key topics under discussion was to empower women in the male oriented societies that are prevalent in the Arab countries. The women keynote speakers placed emphasis on these topics and conversation also led towards how wearing abayas should not provide any hindrances in succeeding in the corporate world. Women entrepreneurs were also specifically encouraged and advised about improving and excelling at their work without the limitations that the western world places on women in abayas. The women’s forum brought under review issues that will help the attendees to progress and expand their business ventures so that they can compete with the big shots of the world.

Attending this forum were Turkish minister for women and family affairs; Selma Kavaf, Kuwaiti member of the parliament; Aseel Al-Awadhi, and various other representatives from NGO’s as well as private firms and members from various Arabic governments. Dubai’s own prominent working women were in attendance as current statistics show that there are more educated females than males in UAE today and these women pursue active careers in all fields of life.

It was a refreshing meeting to attend as it really provided refreshing and modern views that can help working Muslim women to great lengths. It also showed that no matter what the outer appearances may portray, it is the inner strengths that assist in reaching for the stars. Whether it is simple black abayas that you wear, or the more modern western suits, the women behind the outfit is what matters. These Middle Eastern women clad in abayas exuded high levels of confidence and enthusiasm for the working women of today!

Want to make your wedding fashionable and stylish? If yes, then you want to pay slightly more attention and detail to the marriage flowers alone. Using the wedding flowers in an unconventional manner alone will help in making your marriage a hip affair. Here are some top wedding flower ideas that are certain to make your wedding modern.

Opt for blooms which are bright in color. This is one of the finest strategies to make your wedding ; a hip affair. The trend of proven shades like muted yellow, light pink and white for wedding flowers is no more in. The present trend is all about daring colors. If you would like to add a touch of style to your wedding ; select bold colors like fuchsia pink, burgundy, deep purple and several others. Another good option for you is to select cheerful colors like orange and yellow.

If you are looking for something really different, you will want to choose colors which bring that additional to your marriage. The most suitable option so far has been red and pink, infrequently joined with white. But as you are out to do something else, your options include combinations like brown with purple, green with deep red or white with orange or white with maroon.

Going natural is one more idea for making your wedding happening and chic. Using proper and proper; well designed flower arrangements for marriages is the trend of the bygone time. The present times has more of an off-the-cuff approach when it comes to the wedding flowers. It is preferable to go for casual flower arrangements than to go in for cascade of bridal bouquet. This is so because they’re well tailored and therefore give a very formal touch to the marriage. Instead of such formal approach; using a handful of flowers that are loosely held appears more sound a choice.

Complement your wedding flowers with masses of foliage. Adding foliage and plenty of leaves will definitely add on to the natural feel of the marriage. One good option may be to use long stems. This will come in handy for venue useful for venue dcor. Add on some plants and fruits to the existing wedding flowers; if you want to go in for an experimental look and arrangement. This can also help you add on garden like feel to your marriage. You can experiment more by adding some bamboo and bass too. This way you are all set for a wooden feel too.

Different textures are a good way to add to the beauty of your floral patterns. The solution for this is to use flowers which have same color but have different shade and hue. You also have the option to base your entire wedding on a theme color. Consider using yellow as the neat thing about your floral patterns. The solution for that’s to use any sort of flower, as it is yellow in color. Different yellows will match to make a great combination.

Add on some embellished accessories to the wedding flowers arrangement and you are all ready for a classy look for your wedding. Add pebbles, feathers and the marriage flower display to give a bohemian feel to give a bohemian feel to your wedding.

Add style and funk to your wedding with above declared experiments in the marriage floral arrangements and be warranted to leave a mark.

“The Andy Griffith Show” was a 1960′s television show featured Andy, a sheriff in the small town of “Mayberry”. The show revolved around Andy, his friends and family, and the great fun times that they all had together. While “Mayberry” is a totally fictional town, did you know that there is a place that reminds us of it? This place hastens back to a time when life was much simpler, people were kinder to each other, and everyone seemed to know your name. The place? Ocracoke, North Carolina…located in the Outer Banks. It’s not only a great place for your family beach vacations, it’s a place that will move you in ways you won’t even realize. Read on to find out more…Why does Ocracoke maintain this ode to “Days Gone By” when the rest of North Carolina has marched on? One reason could be the simple fact that it’s much harder to get to Ocracoke. There is no direct bridge, road, or tunnel. If you don’t have your own private boat or plane, the only way to get there is to either swim (we’re kidding…) or take one of the public ferries that run to the island and back on a daily basis.Shopping in Ocracoke is not at all like it’s counterpart on the mainland. While shopping on the mainland can be rush, rush, rush…shopping on Ocracoke is like a leisurely stroll through the park. The shops are all rather small and quaint, and many focus on only one or two things. For example, there is one shop that focuses primarily on kites…one of the favorite pastimes on the island. They do have two main variety stores for your grocery needs, and a post office for those postcards back to the mainland.One of the main tourist attractions at Ocracoke is it’s historic lighthouse. Built by Noah Porter, a builder from Massachusetts, in 1832, it is the oldest continuously operating lighthouse in North Carolina (and the second oldest in the US). It is 75 feet tall, with a diameter ranging from 25 feet at the base to 12 feet at the top. You can see the light from the top of this lighthouse 14 miles out to sea. A US Park Ranger is on duty in the summer, and while they are there, you can enter the base of the lighthouse. No climbing of the lighthouse is ever permitted.In conclusion, what do we think of Ocracoke? We absolutely love it…love it. Even if you don’t enjoy going to the beach, this is the perfect place for your next family beach vacation, or family beach vacations… If you often think back to “days of old” when life was simpler and more carefree…definitely check out Ocracoke. Beware…you may leave your heart there….

We have a family beach vacations blog if you would like to learn more.

Christmas time is here! It’s time to figure out the best toys to get for that special girl or boy on your Christmas list. What is one to do? With all the choices via the television, or the radio, or the newspaper, or the web, or the “you fill in the blank”, it leaves one in a state of confusion. No worries, we are here to help you navigate the cloudy waters of Christmas gift giving, and help you find those finest Christmas toys. Here are our top three picks:Have you ever heard of “Guitar Hero”? If you have not, please let me know which corner of the planet you are living on. It seems to be “everywhere” these days. Kids play along with their favorite songs via an electronic device…and they love it. But what if the kids happen to be out and about and away from an electrical outlet? Help!!! “Miniature Guitar Hero” to the rescue. This fantastically portable electronic device operates on batteries, and is only 6″ long. It has a fold-down neck for easy transport, 5 wav tone buttons, and a “whammy bar” to sustain those long notes. It comes packed with hit songs (taken from both Guitar I or Guitar II)…songs like: “Smoke on the Water”, “You’ve Got Another Thing Coming”, “Killer Queen”, and “Surrender”. It will accommodate the level of any player, from the mere beginner to the incredibly advanced (there are 5 levels of play in all). Check this little gem out…I sure wished I had this sort of a thing when I was a kid…a remote control helicopter. Having said that, I REALLY wish I’d had this particular type of remote control helicopter. What type is that you ask? The Havoc Heli Laser Battle 2 RC Helicopter Pack takes RC helicopters up to a whole new level. What level is that? The dogfight level, that’s what. Each of these little helicopters is equipped with a laser and an infrared sensor. With a direct hit to an opponent’s infrared sensor via your on-board laser, you can send it crashing to the ground. How fun is that? Beware though…the next time around they can shoot you out of the sky. At a mere 6.5″ long, they can easily navigate around the regular rooms of your house, but they can also fly outside as well. There are three frequency bands available, so it’s possible to have three friends operate three separate helicopters at the same time. It’s ready to fly out of the box, so you will be operational in a matter of minutes…For every boy and girl who has entered sporting events, singing events, or craft events for years, but has never come away with the top prize, we have just the thing. The “Build Your Own Reward” is a customization service where you can build a trophy, plaque, or medal for that special little boy or girl to say “You’re #1 in My Eyes”. Now you can create your own trophy for that boy or girl who has never won that little league championship, for that American Idol hopeful who has entered singing contests for years, but is alas an “Almost Won”, or for that special little person who has never been able to win that blue ribbon for a painting, a craft, or even a pie. Here’s how the customization service works:The 3 Steps Are:Step #1 – Select the type of award (i.e.: trophy, medal, or plaque).Step Number 2 – Include a special figure or emblem, and then choose a color.Step Number 3 – Add a few words to personalize your gift. You could say something like “To My Loving Daughter. I think your pie was the best of all”.The company who offers this service is a leading provider of plaques, medals, and trophies, and other fine awards of recognition. They have competitive pricing, and quality service, and have been in business for 50 years…so they know their stuff.These are three of the finest Christmas toys that we have come across for this Season’s Festivities. If you would like to learn more about these and other toys, including ordering information, please visit our blog.

In this article we would like to provide you with some ideas for finding, and selecting, those perfect presents for men. The holiday season will soon be here, so now is the time to get started. In future articles we will be providing our “TOP PICKS”gifts that we think are so unique and special, you should definitely give them consideration. So, let’s get started in determining how to find that perfect gift for that man on your list.What is the best way to ensure that you get something? Ask for it, right? So, given this principle, why not ask that guy on your gift list what they would like to receive? They might tell you outright, but more often than not they will evade the question. Just keep them talking, and listen intently to everything they say. When you come away from the conversation you will have some great ideas on what to get them. Be sure to write everything down when you get the chance…your memory will fade given time…Different guys have different lifestyles. What type of lifestyle does the guy you are buying this gift for lead? Does he always seem to be working on the job? Is he a dedicated student who is working hard on getting that diploma or degree? Does he love to watch his favorite sports team on television, or even go to the games? Some guys love parties and are constantly dancing and drinking the night away. The lifestyle that a guy leads will often indicate the type of gift that he would like to receive.Is this guy rich, or at least on his way? If money is no object to him, why go spend a lot of money on a gift? He can just go out and get it himself. You might want to take a more personal approach. Why not make something, or get something that is personalized? It will tell this guy that you have spent some time on him, not only in selecting the gift, but in making it.Do you know this guy very well, or is your relationship more superficial or casual? How well you know this person will often determine the type of gift that you should get him. For example, if he is just a casual friend, getting him a suggestive T-Shirt would be inappropriate. Just consider what type of gift you would like to receive from him.What about hobbies? Does this guy have a particular hobby that they enjoy? Gifts that compliment a hobby are often great gifts to give. When they are pursuing their hobby they will see your gift and think of you. If you don’t know anything about this hobby, there are other people who do. Why not post a question on the internet, or call up a local hobby store. People love to talk about their hobbies and will more often than not be happy to help you out.We hope that this article has been insightful and helpful, and you now have some fantastic ideas on getting presents for men. Our next article will feature our TOP PICKS, but if you can’t wait, please visit us on our blog…

We offer a fully professional free of charge installation service on our rented water coolers, regardless of the distance between the water supply and location of cooler.  Unlike other companies who use the cheap option of a saddle valve system when connecting to your mains water we isolate your water and fit 15mm compression T Piece.  The problems with a saddle valve are that if there is a leak in the system there is no way you can shut off the water supply between the valve and the cooler which could involve a lot of water leaking.  Also the saddle valve only pierces a small hole in your mains water pipe, which can “fur” up and cause the water pressure to be very low through the coolers.

After connecting to the mains water we then fit a water block that consists of two parts, a non-return valve and a leak detector valve.  The non-return valve stops water from flowing back into your mains water pipes which could cause the pipes to burst.  The leak detector valve senses when 2 gallons of water has continually passed through to the cooler and automatically shuts off the water supply, as it knows there may be a possibility of a leak.  This gives you full peace of mind and stops there from being any damage to your premises.  We then use flexible micro bore piping to take the water to your cooler, which is neat and tidy, and blends into any décor.  Behind each cooler we fit an extra isolation valve so that if there are any problems with a particular cooler, the water supply to that cooler can be shut off without it affecting the other coolers on your premises.

We are living through a recession and people all over can feel it. It is straining everyone. You might wonder the who, the what, the when, and more. We are here to answer all this for you starting with the why. Why did this happen? Well, government looked at the housing industry. They saw that people were losing their homes because the banks had increased their interest rates on mortgages and the government had basically tried to make it easier on people to buy homes under the firm belief that everyone should have a home.We spoke with a guy who knows his economics quite well and got a better understanding of what started this and the whole recession crap that we as America are facing. What started it was when people were losing homes due to the fact that the banks were raising their prices on the interest of the loans they were giving. When this happened we got the government involved who handed money to the banks to hand out to those needing help, but government gave out too much money. Now, they are trying to recover the amount they gave out by increasing prices. Now, people are scared to spend due to the facts that the banks won’t spend. People look to claim on PPI claims to beat the recession.You see this even today. People are afraid to spend money during the recession. They are learning to go without. They are learning to do things by themselves as it means that they can save a little bit of money here or there. If industries complained about not making enough, the government has had to give incentives.Then they had to help those who sold homes. They weren’t selling once again. So, they had to make a deal with people. For those who were first time home buyers they gave a tax credit as well as other assistance to help you to buy a home. How great is that? Now, they are offering help to those who aren’t first time home buyers.Then there they are helping the housing industry once again. This time, they are only giving a tax credit. People were not buying homes. So, they gave those who are first time home owners an up to eight thousand dollars tax credit if they bought a home.But people in general are being affected. Those who have jobs are thankful, but ever cautious about keeping their job. Companies are trying to cut costs too. They are looking at areas they don’t need and letting people go. They are just letting go of people to make budget. They aren’t hiring.Those who are looking for a job still haven’t found anything. The chances are slimming. The Bachelors degree is favored because you don’t have to pay people as much. Yet, people don’t even have that sort of money in which to hire someone. Those who work with the unemployment office have seen a drastic increase of people out of work. The percentage rates were higher than ever before.There you have it though. This is just a bit of what this recession has caused. This leaves many people wondering what’s next. How do we pick ourselves up? How do we carry on? The thing is that things are not going to get any better until we who are afraid to use money learn to spend a little. The nice thing is that people are starting to open up and spend more. They just have to know that something good will come of it all.