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    Anita Froneman

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    Dresses we love: Detachable skirts

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    In recent years, many brides have taken to wearing two different dresses: one for the ceremony and another for the reception. However, this can become quite costly. So why not have a two-in-one dress that does it all?

    Dresses with detachable skirts gives you two unique wedding looks. Mix a gorgeous design with practicality and you get this smart trend. We absolutely cannot get over this smart trend. Perfect for a full dress when you’re gliding towards the altar, and a shorter, more comfortable piece when you want to dance. From rock star to princess, it’s all here.

    Jumpsuit-dress

    Dress or jumpsuit? Have both!

    Short dress, long skirt

    Go from business to party as quick as a heartbeat.

    Layered

    This dress goes from flowing to form fitting and we love both to bits.

    Overskirt

    Don’t hide the dress, show both at once with an overskirt that’s open at the front.

    Long slits

    This glam look shows a bit of leg when you want to, and doesn’t when you don’t.

    Image: Unsplash

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    In Fashion

    Dresses we love: Halter neck gowns

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    As fashion trends evolve, so do wedding gowns. One that has been relived many times and has experienced a resurgence since Meghan Markle stepped out in one on her wedding day is the halter neck. This design has a very elegant look to it, and we love the different ways you can play around with it.

    Romantic

    This lovely look is feminine and soft, with a dash of sparkle.

     

    Low-cut

    If you prefer a more sultry look, this sexy neckline plunges down but comes together at the top for a finished look.

    Applique

    Patterns are eye candy. These designs sewn onto transparent netting gives the image of the dress gently caressing the skin.

    X-shape

    If you want to flaunt some shoulder, rock this design.

     

     

    Image: Pexels

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    In Advice

    Groomsmen gift ideas

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    This might not be something men think about a lot, but the fact is, your groomsmen give just as much time, energy and money towards your wedding as any loyal bridesmaid. The least you can do is say thank you, and show them that you really appreciate them sharing your journey to the altar with you. Depending on your budget, you can go big or small.

    Of course, men are notoriously difficult to give gifts to. Here are some cool ideas to help you out:

    Personalized beer case
    We love this wooden case, and carving their name on it adds a personal touch.

     

    Braai kit
    You can’t go wrong with this one. Always handy!

     

    Travel mug
    For all the campers, travellers and always-on-the-go dudes.

     

    Bluetooth speaker
    With a small speaker that’s easy to carry, your boys will always be the life of the party.

     

    Liqueuer
    Not only is liqueur super classy, it actually tastes better than you think!

     

     

     

     

    Picture: Unsplash

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    In Fashion

    Bridal crocs are here

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    Let’s face it, it was always going to happen at some point. If you’re one of those people who wears crocs proudly and confidently, now is your time to shine! If you think about about, bridal crocs make sense. You’re on your feet the whole day and dancing all night. You’ll be the last to laugh when you wake up the next morning without a day-old.

    Ranging from R599 to around R1 470, they’re actually pretty affordable as far as wedding shoes go. And people seem to love them:

    And if you do prefer heels, they’ve got you covered too.

    What do you think? Will you be captivating in crocs on your wedding day?

    Picture: Twitter/ Alexandra_hoho

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    In Engagements

    Bride helps brother propose at her wedding

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    Proposing or announcing big news at someone else’s wedding is mostly frowned upon. Then again, it really does depend on the couple getting married, as some take delight in having others celebrate their own special life events on their big day.

    A Texan man proposed to his girlfriend at his sister’s wedding, and the bride was in on the whole thing.

    Sierra Mcginty-Rush spent months planning the moment with her brother Solomon McGinty II. At the customary bouquet throwing during the reception, Sierra pretended to get ready to throw the flowers over her head, then turned around and gave her flowers to her brother’s girlfriend, Baylee Gillmore, instead of throwing her bouquet into the crowd.

    And there Solomon was, waiting on one knee with a ring to pop the big question. The woman in question looks stunned, then a few words are exchanged and she happily says yes. They even got their cousin in on it to film the whole thing. Watch how it unfolded:

    In a Facebook post, Sierra wrote: ‘Doing it at MY reception that MY coins paid for was MY idea. If you know me and my brothers relationship then you would understand why I was more excited then they were! I was nervous and trying not to cry,’ she added. ‘Sharing Saturday with him just gave us more memories,’ she said.

    Picture: Daily Mail

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    In Advice

    The latest wedding trend: Touch-up stations

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    It might sound unnecessary, or even a little vain but we’re not here to judge. All we know is, touch-up stations are becoming a thing! A touch up beauty station is a great idea for a bridal party that wants to have all the fun but still be photo ready at a moment’s notice.

    Touch-up stations are literally just that: stations set up at your wedding venue for any necessary make-up touch-ups.

    Depending on the wedding venue, it can be set up in the bathrooms or a neutral space. There are a few options you can consider:

    You can easily (and cheaply) just create a private corner by a mirror for everyone who wants to bring their necessities and leave it there for the day.

    You can also dedicate a whole pop-up stand or mobile home and supply all the items yourself.

     

    There are even companies who rent out mobile beauty bars and can send you stylists who are ready for the quick touch-up or the emergency sewing kit.


     
    Here are some essentials your station should include:

    – Tissues
    – Cotton wool
    – Ear buds
    – Make-up remover
    – Lip balm (get one that uses finger application for hygiene reasons)
    – Mascara
    – Hair comb (add a cleaning product for guests to clean it after use)
    – Hairspray
    – Anti-perspirant
    – Tampons/sanitary pads
    – Needles and thread
    – Hand lotion

     

    Picture: Pexels

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    In Advice

    Engagement parties: Yay or nay?

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    Getting engaged is a big deal. We get it. When your loved one pops the question, or says yes, all you want to do is shout it out to the world. Adventure awaits. But how practical are engagement parties really?

    The upside:

    FUN

    There’s really not much to explain here. It’s a good time. You get to celebrate this special time in your life with people you care about!

    Sharing stories

    It’s natural that everyone will want to know how it happened, who asked whom and how. Was it a grand gesture or a private moment? It’s all pretty exciting. So instead of having to answer a bunch of questions over and over, it’s a great opportunity to tell your love story while everyone is gathered.

    Show off the bling

    The real reason most ladies want to throw a party! If your partner gave you a customary ring, you are bound to be super proud of it. Everyone will want to see it up close, and you will want to show it off. Sometimes, it’s okay to brag.

    The downside:

    The money issue

    Sigh. Why is everything so darn expensive? Unless you’re a celebrity, it will probably hurt your wallet. You’re already spending money on the wedding, the honeymoon, the ring and dress… An engagement party seems like an unnecessary expense.

    It can be stressful

    Planning a wedding is already pretty stressful. There is a lot to do and there are many people involved, all wanting to weigh in on how it should go. You have a ton of things on your mind. Planning one more event might add to the stress and only make you anxious.

    Finding the time

    We know it is supposed to be about the couple, but the reality is, everyone’s busy. Supposing you and your fiancee can find an open date, all your guests might not be available. They are already putting time aside to attend the wedding itself, and it might be hard to find another date and time that suits everybody.

    Yay or nay?

    In conclusion, of course, it’s a personal choice so it’s up to you as a couple. However, we think it would be wise to rather put the time, money and energy towards the big day. You’ll see everyone there anyway, and those who really care will call or drop by to say congrats and share in your happiness.

    Picture: Pexels

     

     

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    In Destination

    Hawk swoops in as ring bearer

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    Josh and Andee Constine wanted a wild and beautiful destination wedding. So they flew their loved ones in from the US to Ireland. But it didn’t stop there. They got married at a castle and had a hawk bring them their rings. Yes, you read right!

    Luttrellstown Castle outside of Dublin is an exquisite estate that offers an array of activities and also has a falconry that trains falcons and hawks.

    “They’re very well-trained, and just gorgeous animals,” Josh said to Business Insider. “We really wanted to make sure it was done in a way that was safe for the animal, and that there was nothing about this that felt exploitative to them.We thought it would be something that would really set the wedding apart,” he added. “And make people think, ‘Wow, I’ve really been transported back to the medieval era’.”

    Josh wore a leather falconry glove to protect his arm from the hawk’s talons.

    The couple did say that they were slightly nervous about the idea that the bird might fly off with the rings and they’d never get them back. In fact, the venue does not guarantee anything and also does not take out insurance in case things go wrong! However, everything went smoothly and the rings were delivered safe and sound.

    Sticking to the medieval theme, Andee gave Josh a custom sword engraved with the words: “Poetry. Love. Adventure. Honour.” They used the sword to cut the cake.

    Pictures: Business Insider/Christina Brosnan

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    In Fashion

    Stunning bridal hair pieces

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    Many brides throughout the ages have adorned themselves with hair pieces. You can sport a hair piece whether you wear a veil or not. From tiaras to hats to flowers, the world is your oyster. These days, though, many brides opt for delicate accessories. Here are some options to consider.

    Thin head band

    Head bands have been in style for years, but now, dainty is the new extra. Go with feminine, delicate pieces for a softer look.
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    Tiara

    All women wear crowns. On your wedding day, you get to make yours visible to the world! Gold is very in right now, and we love this Shakespearian feel.

    Pearl hair clips

    Diamonds are a girl’s best friend, but pearls are for a lady. We absolutely fawn over this ethereal piece.

    Floral

    Flowers are perfect for a spring or summer wedding. This garland is the epitome of class and also adds a splash of colour.

    Full head piece

    If you’re really into head accessories, maybe go all out with a full head piece. It can be delicate and subtle, instead of the heavy laden, jewel-encrusted pieces of the past.

    Picture: Pexels

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    In Advice

    Have a fabulous staycation honeymoon

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    We all know how expensive weddings and honeymoons can be. As amazing as your big day might have been, your bank account will probably not love you for it. There’s no pressure to go away and have an expensive honeymoon. Whatever decision is right for your budget, will be the right one for your future, no matter what others say. You can always have that grand trip later.

    In the meantime, there’s no reason you can’t still celebrate your new life together right where you are in a budget-friendly way. Take a day or a weekend off to spend some time together. Here are some great ideas. Choose your fave or combine them all!

    Feast on love

    Picnics are super fun and a great way to get creative, since you can plan exactly what you want to pack. Grab a comfy blanket and set it up anywhere you like. A pretty park, botanical garden, a riverside and the beach are all great options. It might be nice to choose a theme, for example Greek food. Alternatively, just pack your favourite snacks and drinks!

     

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    Spa day

    After all that wedding stress, you both deserve some relaxation. Spa’s are excellent for some spoiling and usually have couple’s activities you can do together. Couple’s massages, facials or saunas good options. If that’s a stretch on your budget, the easiest thing on earth is to have a spa day at home! Get some lovely pamper products and give each other massages, followed by a steamy bubblebath…

     

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    Camp in the backyard

    Now, we know what you think: This is just for kids. No, it absolutely is not! Depending on your backyard, you can have a whole weekend getaway all outdoors. Pitch that tent, roll out the sleeping bags and roast marshmallows around the campfire. If you don’t have a backyard, there’s bound to be some camping spots near you, and they’re usually quite affordable.

     

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    Hike

    There’s nothing like watching the sun rise with a spectacular view. If you’re an active couple, check out some nice hiking routes and lace up to get a fresh perspective!

     

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    Wine tasting 

    If your tastebuds tickle at the sound of wine tasting, this one’s for you. Most wine farms have beautiful surroundings that are perfect contributions to a romantic atmosphere. Of course, you can swop it out for beer tasting, gin tasting or anything else you prefer.

     

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    Candle-lit dinner and stargazing 

    Ah, the magic of candles. For some reason, candle-lit dinners just never go out of style. For this one, you could either go to a cosy restaurant or consider cooking together and setting up a nice dinner table at home. After dinner, spread a blanket and gaze at the stars if the night is clear. Cuddle up close and dream about your future together.

     

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    Image: Pexels

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