Tuesday, December 11, 2007

Every Kiss Begins With... Blah!

I'd like to take a moment to discuss the commercials that we're currently being inundated with by Kay Jewelers. Can I get a collective blah?! I don't know what advertising company came up with these lame ass commercials but I think it's time to put a stop to them. And, is there seriously women out there, apart from 16 year old girls, that actually buy into these commercials? My guess, they're the ones who wear shirts with Tweety bird on them that say sassy things like, "So Tweet". You know, the real classy ladies.

I guess I have a couple issues with the commercials. My first issue is the absolute, over-the-top cheese factor. Seriously, break the wishbone and you'll get some jewelry? Or, let's pick out a tree and you'll find a box of jewelry underneath. Or the best, our son will read you a fake story while I sneak up behind you with a box. Really?! Who are these people and how do they survive life without puking on themselves from being so cheesy? Those are right up there with the jewelry in food or drink. So not ok. I'm all for a romantic gesture but I think if Joe tried one of those things I might be tempted to laugh in his face and call him a girl. Why not just say, "sweetie I love you and I thought this gift would look beautiful on you." Sufficiently thoughtful and romantic without the sappy sweetness.

Another issue I have with the commercials is the guilt factor. They kind of make it seem like if I guy doesn't buy his girlfriend/wife a gift from Kay that he's not romantic or a good husband/boyfriend. I call bull on this one! A piece of jewelry does not make any man a good husband/boyfriend. It takes everyday gestures to earn that distinction, not just a little box on the holidays. I think it just puts so much pressure on the guy. It's like, if you don't spend a bunch of money on jewelry, how will your woman know you love her? I understand that the advertisers are just trying to make money but I feel really bad for the people who fall for it.

Issue number three is the generic gifts that they showcase. How about a journey diamond necklace, or a round pendant diamond necklace.... the same one that every other woman's husband was guilted into buying. I would much rather prefer a unique piece of jewelry that was picked for a thoughtful reason over a piece that was featured on sale for the holidays and came with a cute little bear and a box of chocolates. There are exceptions here. Diamond studs will always be in style. But, if you're a guy and reading this, toss the chocolates and the bear and wrap the present yourself. Lots of brownie points for that!

I guess my point here is don't be guilted into buying some crappy gift because of a really bad commercial. And I don't want to make it seem like I'm anti-jewelry, because that is so not the case. I just think that a gift should be thoughtful and purchased because you know that the recipient will love it. Look at her everyday style. Does she wear yellow gold or white gold, big trendy jewelry or simple and classic pieces? A little observation can go a long way to finding a gift that is perfect without being covered in generic cheese.

Happy holiday gift (and jewelery) shopping. Try not to get nauseous when watching the jewelry commercials... and try not to get sucked in! If you feel it happening for heaven's sake walk away, or at least change the channel!

1 comment:

Emily said...

"but I think if Joe tried one of those things I might be tempted to laugh in his face and call him a girl"
You have me peeing my pants with this line! I so agree! If Kevin acted like one of those commercials I would seriously think he was GAY!
Christmas is not about expensive presents and that is what these commercials make it seem like. I too am so fed up with the commercials and ads that discuss the "perfect present". People are not even allowed to say "Merry Christmas" but they can bombard people into buying frivolous presents and ...for what?
We are saving our money for a fantastic trip to Florida in April where we can enjoy our wonderful family. That is better than some ugly, expensive piece of jewelry that will get put away with all the other jewelry I don't wear! Let's boycott!