Just to add to this thread on BJCP Guidelines. I normally try to get close to the suggested ranges when I brew various styles of beer. However, I made an American Brown Ale that was higher in OG, IBU's and ABV than the guidelines state. It tasted really amazing so I entered it in a recent competition. It won a gold medal with a score of 43 even though it was a bit big for the style. Aroma, taste, and mouthfeel are what made that beer a winner. Pushing the style guidelines a bit is not always a bad thing!