By: Amanda Baizan Being considered a designer does not require you to be a creator of clothing or shoes as some of the best designers are jewelry makers. I feel it is time to give praise where it is due. Designer Carolyn Rafaelian, better known as the creator and designer of the popular bangles Alex and Ani, is a fabulous jewelry maker with an eye for the spiritual yet vintage boho look. Alex and Ani is a jewelry company known for their eco-friendly bangles, necklaces and rings. Rafaelian, known for her deep belief in natural beauty, puts an emphasis on spirituality and all things that have to do with a sense of uniqueness. Her mission is to make the customer feel as if she has bought something that helps her create a better individual style apart from others. The jewelry line Alex and Ani was named after Carolyn’s first two daughters, and that alone demonstrates the importance of family in Rafaelian’s life. She grew up in Rhode Island to a family of jewelers known for their great craftsmanship. Immediately she took an interest in jewelry making and before long her name was everywhere. Carolyn’s bangles and such can be found in many department stores and boutiques across the country including Nordstrom’s. Her bangles are made to fit any wrist size because they are expandable. Her website: www.alexandani.com has many cool quirks and features that help make shopping much simpler. You can create your own combination of bangles and put together what you think expresses your inner self. Alex and Ani jewelry is a great brand but is more toward the expensive side as her bangles range from $24-$150 each. These bangles, necklaces, and rings would also make great Valentine’s Day gifts. Valentine’s Day is right around the corner and I’m sure there are many people scrambling to find last minute gifts for their special someone or debating what to wear on a romantic evening/casual date. Here is a guide to great gifts and cute outfit choices to make your Valentine’s Day a special one. 1. The always popular cologne/perfume. Cologne is one of those cliché gifts girls tend to get guys because they cannot come up with something better. Although cliché, cologne is an extremely useful gift. No one wants to be dating someone smelly, so if you want to make your man/women smell amazing then purchase cologne or perfume because it will be worth the money in the end. 2. Another great gift idea is to find something especially meaningful to your partner or the relationship. Your gift does not need to be extravagant like a dozen roses and a box of chocolates; think outside the box and trust me, your partner will be sure to love it. 3. RED is always fabulous on Valentine’s Day, and this year is no exception to that rule. If you have a hot date, then don’t be afraid to sport a red cocktail dress that accentuates those curves. Red and pink are cliché colors for Valentine’s Day but are none-the-less fantastic choices. 4. For girls, this is your night to shine and dress to impress! Wear something bold, shiny, and loud with sophisticated elegance that will turn heads. A nice sequined shirt with jeggings is simple but still fabulous, especially with a low heel. For you guys, dress it up nice. If you have a dinner wear a nice buttoned down shirt, and, to take it even further, be bold and get out your pink buttoned down shirts to add a little fun. If you have a casual day/night planned then do jeans and a sweater to insure that you’re comfy all day long. Here are some restaurants that would be great places to take your special someone.