There are plenty of things couples worry will spoil their wedding day. Uncooperative weather, a guest who enjoys the bar tab a little too much, or worst of all – another couple getting engaged on the same day.
However, while most of these worries never come to be, sometimes an unexpected spoil emerges thanks to a wedding grinch.
Such was the case for an American couple. Taking to TikTok, bride Brandy told the story with footage of her husband, Billy, who began acting strangely and couldn’t even say his vows coherently.
It turned out that the groom’s drink had been spiked, causing massive discomfort, confusion and an unhealthy racing heart for him. Brandy claims that he was spiked with crushed Adderal.
His symptoms included sweating, being red in the face, emotional ups and downs and being unable to form words as well as anger, confusion and memory loss according to Brandy. She says that he was drug tested and that this kind of thing happens at weddings so that people can have more duration to party longer.
The video quickly went viral (reaching almost 1 million views) on the video-sharing app, and soon TikTok users were ready to fight the culprit. Brandy had shared the video with the intention to help prevent the same thing from happening to anyone else.
“Our poor kids were traumatized by the experience. Billy doesn’t remember anything after I walked down,” said Brandy.
In the comments, many people demanded that the couple have a redo, with some wondering whether the newly-weds could sue for the entire wedding cost. Others suggested that they renew their wedding vows the following year, so that Billy could remember the special day – with the costs coming out of the culprit’s pocket.
They say that money can’t buy everything (and certainly not love), but often when wedding plan talks are in the works, it’s easy to get caught up in the tale that “expensive is better.”
But is it, actually?
Recently, Reddit users decided to weigh in on the topic.
u/11sam111 kicked off the conversation with the concept that expanding one’s budget to focus money beyond the big day (ie: on honeymoons!) is a better way to go than cashing it all in for a day where “you miss everything because it’s so busy.”
Other Reddit users were quick to share their responses and shed light on what actually makes the day memorable that more often than not, doesn’t come with a price tag.
Here’s what people’s thoughts were:
Stick to what you can afford
“We had a $300 wedding and spent the $20k that would have gone to a bit wedding on a house down payment and medical bills for having our kid. On the other hand my friend had a $35k wedding that was two full days of having a blast with all of her loved ones and that’s okay too! No shame either way as long you stick to what you can afford and don’t hurt anyone.” – ThrowRA_SILspilled
There might be better uses for the budget
“I’ve talked with several people that did a similar thing, they all regret nothing. One took all the wedding money he was gonna spend and used it on a down payment for a house, and another used it to take a month off with his husband to travel.” – Jan_Itor_Md_
If you spend it, don’t regret it
“I have no regrets about spending money for an event that was meaningful to the people I love.” – the_lemon_lobster
Don’t let your wedding put you in debt
“One of my friends spent 30k on his wedding. Then was upset because he and his new wife couldn’t afford to get [an] apartment together because they were in debt for 25k cus they took a loan to pay for it. Just insanity” – keyboardstatic
It’s your money
“I mean honestly, it’s your money and people waste the majority of their money on frivolous stuff anyway so if that’s what you chose to spend your money on and it made you happy, then kudos to you. I’m not really knocking the people who do per se, I just don’t understand it. But I totally don’t need to.” –SonOfSet1
A little first-class travel couldn’t hurt
“I eloped with my now husband in feb of 2020 (pre lockdown) we used the money we save to fly to Thailand first class and spent two weeks travelling for only 8grand total! Waaaay better use of our time.” – MidnaMarbles
What are your thoughts? Are you team “as expensive as possible” or team “save it for something else meaningful”?
Some weddings are simple, others are simply works of art. And as any painter knows colours speak volumes.
Colours are imperative for setting the tone and feel of any event. They reflect not only what we think looks gorgeous, but what will incite certain feelings – from love to excitement and even good luck.
In many different cultures, colours have specific meanings, premised with the wishful thinking that these will attract certain energy, and in 2022 we’re all about just that – energy. But what are the tones we need to know for this year, and where do we integrate them? Don’t worry, we’re here to help you take your wedding from simple to bespoke.
In 2022, the colour trends for the year are succinctly put, full of life and zeal. According to Wedding Forward, the colours for this year are:
Very Peri Pantone 2022
Dusty Blue and Blush
Jewel Tones
Green Colours
1.Very Peri Pantone
A deep purple with blueish hues, Veri Peri has been all over 2022 – from the runway to the aisle.
This colour is for the trendy couple who thrive on making a statement.
It’s the perfect rich colour to add to the centrepieces of a white wedding ie: table decor through lavender flowers with Veri Peri vases or candles. Especially if you’re going for round, separate tables, it’s the peri thread that ties everything together. How about cake finishings? Especially if you’re going the modern-bride route and opting for cupcakes or macaroons, this is an exciting turn for a delicious assortment of eye candy.
Lápis de Noiva
If you want to go big, create floral ceiling arangements that accentuate the colour in different shades using hanging flowers and lamps.
Rowley Hesselballe
Veri Peri can also be complemented beautifully by other colours that are softer in hues. Think pale yellow, soft oranges or even a light turquoise for that seascape chic feel.
2.Dusty Blue and Blush
Karissa Watson/ Pinterest
Dusty blue deserves far more credit than it gets and paired with the soft tenderness of blush pink, the two make a powerful duo.
This colour-pairing is for the sophisticated wedding and the couple who are always referred to as ‘sweethearts’.
This colour combo works gorgeously with floral arrangements, from arch formations to ceiling and table. Dusty Blue table runners or cloths paired with blush pink roses? Breathtaking. Add a few candles to envelope everyone in the romance? A must!
Elegant Wedding Invites
Dusty Blue and Blush hues also serve as great inspiration for bridesmaids’ dresses, to be complemented by the groomsmen’s suits, as Style Me Pretty showcases below.
Now if you’re a bold bride, then adding a pop of either colour to compliment your soon-to-be husband’s pocket square is another adorable way to subtly match.
3.Jewel Tones
rockmywedding.co.uk
Emerald, Ocean, Merigold, Gold, Dark Purple Ceres Pink and dark purple make for royal energy, and these colour coordinations are for the couple who are all about extravagance.
Many Indian Weddings have long been ahead of this trend, but in 2022 these colours are soaring into mainstream vogue.
marginpar.com
Implement the colours bold by using a rich colour ie: dark purple for your largest surface space like the table cloth, followed by ceres pink flowers and marigold cutlery. Alternatively, pick two to pair like emerald and marigold, and use these as pops of colour for white undertones.
If you want to keep things rich but simple, try emphasising gold and complimenting with three or more colours using flowers.
Sweet Luxury Events
These colours as especially thrilling to use in a geode wedding cake, which is also one of the top trends for this year’s cake scene.
4.Green Colours
etsy.com
Green is associated with good fortune, fertility and growth. For the couple who knows they want their wedding to be bohemian, playing with shades of green is a sure way to accentuate your love of peace, the Earth and of course, each other.
Now before you start picturing over-powering green finishings that may make your guests think Kermit the Frog is getting married, there’s something important to understand about this shade, and that is its versatility. Green can play up so many other soft colours – from white to baby pinks, an assortment of other green shades and gold.
splendid.com.cy
One way to implement shades of green onto the scene is to start off with light green touches (ie: tea green or soft mint) and then work your way to a forest or sea green.
Lot’s of plants can also flourish at this kind of wedding, and we believe that the air will be positively buzzing with love (and clean oxygen).
When picking out your wedding dress, there’s no doubt you’ll encounter dime-a-dozen inspiration springboards and influences.
You might be tempted to go along with trends or maybe even take a note from the Met Gala gown looks.
However, if you’re zodiac obsessed and make most of your decisions based on Co-Star’s advice, then you might want to turn to the stars for that added touch of inspiration. Can fashion choices be inspired by the stars? Absolutely, and there’s quite a bit of literature on the connection too. Keeping this in mind, here are your wedding dress suggestions as told by the stars:
*These suggestions are based on your Sun signs
Aries
Aries are passionate, know how to stand in their decisions, love to be bold and are naturally competitive and daring, but are also soft marshmallows on the inside. So, how does this translate to fashion, let alone a wedding dress?
An Aries wants pieces that will stand out and be admired, but not for being grand – for being different. A married look of striking and soft is their cup of tea, with something that says ‘powerful’ at the forefront of their minds (they are ruled by their heads, afterall) This could come across as a desire for something more traditionally masculine (ie: opting for a power suit instead of a gown) but a lot of Aries are also very in touch with their divine feminine, meaning a more darling look complimented with bold accessories could be perfect, especially with a high cut leg or plunging neckline.
Being the first in the zodiac, the ram is all about setting trends, so whatever look is emerging ie: mini-wedding dresses, you can bet your bottom dollar an Aries has considered it.
Taurus are known for their stability and chic when it comes to dressing. As an Earth sign, Taurus loves elements connected to nature – practically. If it’s not subtle florals, then it’s something that is easy for them to feel comfortable in. However, don’t be deceived – Taurus can be very picky and like the finer things in the elegance clad. While their looks may not be overtly grandeur, they are certainly of quality. Taurus is ruled by Venus the planet of love and beauty, which echoes into their closets, sometimes through subtle sensuality.
Tarus is ruled by the throat, so something that premises the neck, or cuts that draw the eyes upward are perfect options.
Gemini, the sign of mystery and the double-edged sword is constantly attempting to feed their curiosity, which often reads in their fashion choices. Gemini’s love options and for their outfits to make an impact on others. As the pillar of the air signs, Gemini’s don’t like to feel confined or controlled, and don’t enjoy pieces that invoke those feelings either. Gemini is ruled by Mercury, which translates to communication and rationality. Their fashion choices will almost always attempt to communicate a message of expression, but given the twin symbolism of their sign, a piece that can blend both light and dark elements of their personality works best. Ruled by the arms and hands, Gemini will be drawn to sleeve elements.
GALA Galia LahavNikeen AsarCross StitchGalia LahavAsaf Dadush
Cancer
Cancers, ruled by the moon, are known to be in touch with their femininity and especially their emotions – even if they don’t always have it figured out. They’re often nurturing and classic souls with wanderlust spirits, and adore pieces that either emulate their mood, or create the mood they aspire to have. Cancers are creatures who crave peace like the water element that rules them. In fashion, choices that emulate peace or contentment speak to them fondly. Ruled by the chest, Cancers will want to look for sweetheart necklines or jewellery that truly echoes from their heart. Cancer’s are also in touch with the ocean, so mermaid dresses or pearl touches are perfect looks for this bride.
Lee PetraAleana’s BridalLiHi Hod Collection
Vivenne Westwood
Leo
Leos stand tall as a sign of courage and authenticity, and they take great pride in standing out (their way). Although their looks may come off as effortless, Leos spend quite a bit of time deciding on the perfect choices simply because they often see fashion as a reflection of them. Ruled by the heart and sun, Leos are rays of light that also like a little flair. If it isn’t lots of sparkles, it’s embroidery or tinted hues for a Leo who won’t want to look like everyone else on their wedding day. Leo is also ruled by the spine, so open-back dresses are always a fabulous option.
Immacle
Galia LahavLuca Sposa
Virgo
Virgos are modest and love quality much like their earth sign sibling Taurus. However, Virgo likes pieces that have an edge, or complicated design. Sophisticated is what Virgo wants for her wedding dress, and anything that screams classy is right up their ally. Ruled by the body, Virgo wants a look that accentuates their figure, whether it’s with subtle design or overall construction. Like Gemini, Virgo is ruled by Mercury, but the message Virgo wants to send is that their dress was expertly thought out, and had a lot of attention paid to it.
Vivenne WestwoodEva LendelOff WhiteMilla NovaMilla Nova
In the digital era, making announcements for any occasion is pretty common. You know your friend from high school has declared a certain breakfast spot ‘utterly ideal’, your co-worker’s announcement of their newest plant-child, and your younger sibling’s every move.
However, there are some announcements that still remain somewhat sacred in the land of social media, and your wedding or engagement announcement sits at the top of the tree.
So, how do you do it ‘right?’ As in, how do you not come off as obnoxious, or how do you meander coming across a little too nonchalant (to the point where people might wonder if you’re even excited?)
Do you go for the flashy carousal post where everyone gets to see the entire story – from the spot you thought you were simply having dinner at to the ultimate star on your finger, or do you play it lowkey and post a snippet of the magic?
Here are some tips to keep in your back pocket on how to announce your special news on social media:
1.Make sure those closest to your heart about it before you go live on socials:
The last thing you want to rain on your engagement parade is an unhappy friend or family member. Before you break the internet, make sure you tell those closest to your heart first, and especially those who will certainly see it on social media first.
2. Use photos that are meaningful to you, or do a shoot
Not everyone grabs perfect photos from their engagement moment. Your nails might not be on point, your partner may ve wearing the same outfit as in your last post, or all the photos are blurry. Now, you may be part of a pretty funky couple that sees these as part of their own chill aesthetic, and if that sounds like your relationship then go for it in posting. Instagram especially is long past its curated look, with photo-dumps showing more organic life ruling the roost. However, if you really want to go the full 9-yards and have a little shoot (either professionally or at the trust hands of your phone camera on timer) then that’s amazing too. The bottom line here is to use photos that are meaningful to your relationship – not glossy photos that aren’t you or your partner, or an obscure ring that isn’t even yours found on the Internet.
3.Use a caption that speaks to your relationship and your audience simultaneously
It’s a special announcement and so no matter which platform you’re using (par Twitter) a longer caption is more than allowed. However, you can also keep it short and sweet by using a quote from a song, film or book that says it all. You can even stick to the same emoji you have next to your partner’s name on your phone if you want, but the key focus here is using a caption that again, is special to your relationship and won’t be uncomfortable for your audience. Ie: Telling your audience that you’re better than everyone else because you won’t die alone is probably not a good way to announce your special news.
4.Make a story highlight for the build-up to the big day, not necessarily separate posts
We know you’re excited, and most of your close friends and followers will be too! However, that doesn’t mean that everyone expects or wants a daily update on what you’re doing for the wedding. If you do want to document the big build up, all the cake flavours you tried and wedding locations you scouted, put them on your stories (either Facebook or Instagram) and compile them in a highlight. The bonus of collecting all these moments is that you’ll have a whole trailer before the wedding, and it could also make an incredible TikTok.
It’s 2022, and if there’s one thing dominating the world of trends, it’s the desire to be unique, ignite our inner child and have fun again. Who could blame us? After being kept indoors for as long as we were thanks to the pandemic, the want to make our comeback fun-filled speaks greatly to the overall reminder that life is too precious to be boring.
Cue the fun couple – you may know them or identify as part of the trope (at least that’s what your friends and inner dialogue suggest). Ordinary was never on the cards for this kind of couple. Regular dinner dates? Nope, a spontaneous adventure always made more sense. Staying in to watch a movie? Sure, if candy and homemade forts are involved. Just one drink after work? The fun couple laughs at your naivety.
Translating the desire for a fun-loving wedding from paper to the aisle isn’t always easy, and can sometimes border on messy. As much fun as it is to add uniqueness, laughter and the joy associated with parties in our younger days can be, there’s a fine line between “fun done right” and fun that unravels like a bad comedy. However, with a little planning and a touch of organisation, guests will be waiting for you to renew your vows sooner than you can say “I do!”
With this in mind, here are some suggestions to turn your wedding from typical to fun-loving fantastic:
Wedding photographer Jake Molina says that “this could either turn out well or a little too well”. Whether it help guests ease the nerves of not knowing many people, or simply the idea that makes them chuckle, it’s a great shot at making any ceremony a little more entertaining.
Let’s face it, little ones are cute and all, but a flower granny certainly adds that golden touch of surprise and fun for the older guests at your wedding. This is another suggestion from Molina, who says that it’s a “fun way to incorporate family in your big day.”
Posing for wedding photographers is one thing, but the excitement of a travelling polaroid camera just adds that extra snap that takes away from rigidity. Let guests take their photos, then glue them into a big guest book. It’ll be a great reminder for you of who all was there, and a laugh at the nature of single-take photos.
Tiny cakes and cupcakes are ruling the roost in 2022’s wedding cake trends, and for good reason. 1.Everyone can have their cake (and eat it too) without waiting too long, and small-sized treats allow for personalisation. Also, treats in smaller form are categorically more exciting for reasons most humans feel but can’t explain.
If you really want to marry your relationship’s child-like energy with aesthetics, then renting a bouncy house is a sure way to keep both your free-spirited and younger guests happy. Adding balloon bouquet arrangements makes for the perfect non-traditional wedding aesthetic, and we bet your wedding will be all the talk on Instagram and TikTok.
Whether it’s a taco bar, a doughnut station, noodles or a dessert bar, having an awesome foodie station adds the kick of thoughtfulness and creativity to your menu.
Who doesn’t love a fun fact, especially when it’s about the couple? Creating fun facts is one of the most creative ways to spill some tea to your guests, and let them get to know you and your partner as a couple, better.
When the news surfaced that Kourtney Kardashian and Travis Barker had gone lowkey with their wedding (a simple courthouse ceremony with a guest list you could count on one hand) people began to speculate that something bigger was in the works.
Ellen von Unwerth
And, as internet sleuths often are, the suspicions were right!
Little under a week since their original wedding, the pair celebrated their married status with an incredible Italian wedding bash on Sunday, 22 May, at Castello Brown, Portofino, as per Page Six.
As expected, the Kardashian-Jenner clan all attended, with brother Rob Kardashian’s attendance still in question.
NINO/GC Images
Kourtney’s dress saw a magnificent mini Dolce & Gabbana wedding number, with a veil longer than the hem, inspired by a tattoo on the back of Travis’s head, accompanied by gloves and white heels. Travis played the perfect pairing with his black suit, also by Dolce & Gabanna.
Ellen von Unwerth
Kourtney later swapped the vision of white for a striking black dress again featuring matching globes and a Virgin Mary emblem in the centre of the dress – something many have likened to a copy of a similar dress sister Kim wore in 2017. But hey, if it goes with the energy, let it prevail!
@kourtneykardashian
More wedding details reveal that Kris Jenner was reportedly getting down on the dance floor, Travis gave a heartfelt speech with his new wife by his side, the clan’s union of children from their respective sides were happily present, and the internet’s most fascinating couple, Megan Fox and Machine Gun Kelly were also in attendance, as per E!
You’re looking for the perfect spot to pop the question (or you keep imagining the magical place that will serve as your proposal setting, soon to be hinted at when you spontaneously take your partner there).
However, with so many options in places like Cape Town, picking one place can be overwhelming for the best of us.
Before we drop the deets on 6 special spots to ‘pop the question’ in Cape Town, it’s worth noting a few disclaimers.
1. No matter where you choose, even if it’s the comfort of your own garden, it will still be a special moment. The place doesn’t define the importance of asking someone to spend their life with you, the person does!
2. Too much pressure on getting everything perfect can take away from your own enjoyment of the moment, or your partners.
3. Some of the most magical and tear-jerking proposals have happened in the most obscure places, or the ones that are personal to your relationship. If your partner is sentimental, then proposing at their favourite sunset spot, the place you went on your first date, or somewhere where you both remember laughing for hours can mean far more than a place boasting grandeur or tantalising views.
Now, for those who are all about scenery, and places that are known for their romantic spins, here are some top picks in the Mother City:
1.The Rock sunset spot
Known for its incredible views, The Rock sunset spot marries intimacy and Cape sunsets are their finest, an incredible spot to share with the person to whom you’d give the whole sunset eternally if you could. The Rock is a perfect ‘pop the question spot’ that applies to any kind of lover, but fits best for the one who always ensures that watching the sunset together is on the cards.
@ponaek
Where:405 Ocean View Drive, Bantry Bay
2. Kirstenbosch National
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens homes everything a nature lover could hope to experience in one epic garden. Not many people can say they made the special decision to be together forever and always at a new 7th Wonder of The World, but you can. The Boomslang Walkway is one of the most sought after spots in the Gardens, hosting breathtaking views and an explorer’s thrill. To add an even more romantic spin, have a picnic with Fynkos and enjoy nature’s bounty as rolling lawns and flowers surround you. For someone who loves mother Earth almost as much as they love you, Kirstenbosch will certainly serve as that fairytale backdrop.
@kirstenbosch_nbg
Where:Rhodes drive, Newlands
3. The Paris of Cape Town – Franschoek
@babylonstoren
Franschhoek is renowned for its romantic energy, challenging the Parisians on their notions of love being in the air. A trip to Franschoek means divine food, lots of wine and even perfume-making – all leading up to the big ask. For a classic proposal, try Le Petite La Colombe, which is not only one of the top restaurants in the world but a Wineland’s favourite for proposals. If your partner is all about grandeur and would sell a kidney to live in France, then this spot fits the bill. If you’re looking for something a little different, Babylonstoren boasts spoils of romantic magic, from the greenhouse to a gorgeous canoe trip – arguably one of the most romantic spots.
@laurandnicolas
Where: Le Petit Colombe | Leeu Estates, Dassenberg Rd, Franschhoek
They make you feel like you’re on top of the world, so why not capitalise on it romantically? The Waterfront’s famous Cape Wheel offers picnic options where you can add some champagne and truly cheers to a beautiful future amongst the stars. If your relationship has always felt like a film plot, then entering the next chapter this way will certainly be Nicholas Sparks approved.
Where: Dock Rd, V&A Waterfront
5.Norval Art Foundation
@norvalfoundation
Art is tangible and visible emotion. Norval Art Foundation is easily one of the most aesthetic places to propose, and for the art lover in your relationship, it’s a perfect painting. Who wouldn’t want to make such a special decision surrounded by art as your audience? Norval Art Foundation hosts so many curious spots to share the most romantic moments of your life, with new exhibitions constantly in the works, ready to build your audience.
Where:4 Steenberg Rd, Tokai
6. Table Mountain, of course
@tablemountainca
This list wouldn’t be complete without vouching for a seat at the finest table in Cape Town. Whether you decide to take a hike along Table Mountain National Park’s trails, ride the cableway all the way to the top or go to the new TAP bar (an addition part of the Aerial Cable Way’s delicious ‘above the world’s experiences) you simply can’t go wrong with the gem of our city.
In a low-key courthouse ceremony, Kourtney Kardashian and Travis Barker officially tied the knot.
@kourtneykardash
Now, a Kardashian having a downplayed wedding isn’t exactly on brand, but for Kourtney and Travis, AKA one of the most loved-up couples in Hollywood, the lack of grandeur seems fitting in the pair’s “we’re the different couple” narrative.
@kourtneykardash
If anything, Kourtney’s chill mini Dolce & Gabbana wedding dress and subtle veil and Travis’s sleek all-black suit are refreshing in a world where celebrity love (especially at the Kardashian level) is almost always contested with grandeur.
@kourtneykardash
The two sported pictures in a fabulous convertible, giving a 1960s genre film essence, as seen on Kourtney’s Instagram.
@kourtneykardash
However, rumours are pinning that there will be a bigger wedding down the line in Italy, according to a source as People reports. However, this is still just hearsay at this point, as Vogue notes, the couple have not confirmed big wedding plans.
@kourtneykardash
The courthouse wedding follows their practice wedding in Las Vagas post-Grammys in April according to Elle, but the marriage license wasn’t procured, making the ceremony unofficial. Kourtney had aptly captioned the pictures from this ceremony as “practice makes perfect” and her latest official wedding pictures with “Till death do us part.”
When we think about that special day, amidst imaginings of how our partners will look at us adoringly, the dress that we’ll wear flawlessly after months of picking the perfect one, and the smiles on our guests’ faces as we say “I do”, we may also consider what could turn our fairytale into a nightmare.
The rings get lost, the cake topples over, or worse – you forget to put on half your wedding gown.
Well, for one digital creator, Becky Jefferies, discovering that she had forgotten half her dress behind turned out to be a reality. However, this story has a good ending and can be understood far more as a romantic comedy than a nightmare.
Just before the bride and groom-to-be were about to say their vows, Becky became aware that things were a little lighter, as the detachable Point D’Esprit portion of her gown had not been put on!
Kindly, Becky took the mic and asked the guests if she could complete her look. As anyone who has ever spent what felt like a lifetime choosing the perfect dress will know, it’s a lot of effort (both mental and physical) to finish your bridal look, and wearing only half of it is like submitting an art project without the all-important details!
Despite the slight sense of “is this really happening” evident in Becky’s demeanour, the bride’s finishings quickly made it down the aisle just in time. “I bet you’ve never been to a wedding like this before,” Becky added humorously finally ready to say her vows in the completed dress she dreamed of (though, she looked stunning either way).
WATCH: Bride forgets half her dress and realises right before the vows
