• Author

    Bianca Muller

    Browsing
    bachelorette themes
    In Bachelorette Party

    15 Bachelorette themes we’re loving

    No Comments

    Planning a bachelorette party should feel like part of the celebration and not another task on your list. The easiest way to pull everything together? A strong bachelorette theme.

    These are the bachelorette themes we’re loving right now — a mix of playful, polished and just the right amount of extra.

    Groovy & boozy

    A retro moment that leans all the way in. Think bold colour, disco energy and a dancefloor that doesn’t quit. A DIY cocktail station keeps things interactive and slightly chaotic — in the best way.

    Last swing before the ring

    Preppy with a twist. Whether it’s golf or tennis, this theme is all about country club styling, crisp palettes and a few competitive moments to keep the energy up.

    Girls just wanna have sun

    For the bride who belongs near the ocean. Relaxed, sun-soaked and easy to execute. Add tropical touches, fresh food and a sunset moment that naturally turns into a party.

    Mamma Mia

    A love letter to long lunches and even longer nights. Inspired by Mamma Mia!, expect blue-and-white details, shared plates and a playlist that quickly becomes a singalong.

    Pearls, pjs and prosecco

    Matching sets, glowing skin and bubbles on repeat. Add a spa element or movie marathon for a night that feels intimate but still elevated.

    Last sail before the veil

    Crisp, coastal and a little glam. Whether you’re actually on the water or just dressing like it, think stripes, spritzes and a day that rolls seamlessly into night.

    Margs & matrimony

    A margarita bar, citrus details and a menu built around sharing. It’s relaxed but still feels like a celebration.

    Let’s get naut-i

    Start with a boat day, end with a night out. Swimsuits, snacks and sea air by day, then a themed bar crawl after. Effortless, but memorable.

    Looking like a snack

    Playful and completely unserious. Assign each guest a snack-inspired outfit and commit. It’s guaranteed laughs and photos you’ll actually keep.

    The one where she gets married

    A nostalgic nod to Friends. Slogan tees, coffee-shop corners and a theme that works just as well for a night in as it does for a city break.

    Last rodeo

    Western, but make it fashion. Cowgirl hats, boots and just enough fringe. It’s bold, photogenic and full of personality.

    On cloud nine

    Soft and dreamy. Whites, silvers and floaty textures set the tone. It’s more aesthetic than chaotic — perfect for a bride who loves a polished look.

    Wig out

    Low effort, high impact. Everyone arrives in a wig — the bigger, the better. Add a playful runway moment and you’ve got instant entertainment.

    Until they’re old and gray

    Unexpected and very funny. Dress like your future selves, then head out and prove you’ve still got it. Lighthearted, ironic and always a talking point.

    Final fiesta

    Colour, music and a table that feels abundant. It’s festive, easy to pull together and perfect for a group that wants energy from start to finish.

    ALSO SEE: The Hen Commandments: Dos and don’ts for planning the bachelorette party

    The Hen Commandments: Dos and don’ts for planning the bachelorette party

    Feature image: Pexels

    by
    Continue Reading
    plus-one
    In Advice

    Plus-one or not? How to keep it fair and stress-free

    No Comments

    Finalising your guest list is where wedding planning starts to feel very real  (and very personal). Between budgets, venue limits and family expectations, deciding who gets a plus-one can quickly become one of the trickiest parts of the process.

    The good news? There’s no one-size-fits-all rule. With a clear approach (and a little confidence), you can make decisions that feel fair, thoughtful and aligned with your vision for the day.

    What is a wedding plus-one, really?

    A “plus-one” simply means a guest is invited to bring someone along — usually a partner, but sometimes a date or companion. It’s a lovely gesture, but not a requirement for every guest.

    Start with your non-negotiables

    Before diving into individual decisions, get clear on your limitations:

    • Budget: Every extra guest affects catering, seating and rentals
    • Venue capacity: Space will naturally cap your numbers
    • Wedding style: A large, lively celebration vs an intimate gathering

    Once you know your boundaries, it becomes much easier to make consistent calls.

    Who should get a plus-one?

    While every wedding is different, there are a few widely accepted guidelines that help keep things fair and respectful.

    Couples in committed relationships

    If a guest is married, engaged or in a long-term relationship, it’s generally expected to include their partner, even if you’ve never met them. It acknowledges their relationship as a meaningful part of their life.

    Your bridal party

    Your inner circle has likely shown up for every fitting, plan and pre-wedding moment. Offering them a plus-one is a simple but meaningful way to say thank you.

    Guests travelling or coming solo

    If someone is travelling far or won’t know many people at your wedding, allowing them to bring a guest can make the experience far more comfortable and enjoyable.

    Close friends and immediate family

    For your nearest and dearest, a plus-one can feel like a natural extension of their invite, even if they’re not in a serious relationship.

    Who doesn’t necessarily need one?

    This is where it gets a little more flexible and where your discretion comes in.

    Guests in casual or new relationships

    If someone has only recently started dating, you’re not obligated to extend a plus-one. You can always reassess closer to the wedding if things become more serious.

    Singles who know plenty of guests

    If your friend group overlaps or your family is tight-knit, solo guests are unlikely to feel alone — meaning a plus-one isn’t essential.

    Coworkers or distant connections

    If you’re inviting colleagues or acquaintances, it’s perfectly acceptable to keep the invite limited. Just make sure you’re consistent across the group.

    The golden rule: be consistent

    If there’s one thing that avoids awkward conversations, it’s consistency.

    For example:

    • All married and cohabiting couples get a plus-one
    • Only the bridal party receives one regardless of relationship status
    • Or, no plus-ones beyond serious relationships

    Whatever you decide, apply it across the board. It makes your choices easier to explain and easier for guests to accept.

    How to make it clear on your invitations

    Your invitation should do the talking for you.

    • Named guest only? That person is invited solo
    • “And Guest”? They have a plus-one
    • Both names listed? You’re inviting a specific couple

    You can also clarify your policy on your wedding website to avoid any confusion (or last-minute requests).

    When you can’t offer everyone a plus-one

    If your guest list is tight, don’t feel guilty. It’s completely acceptable to limit plus-ones, especially if you’re prioritising intimacy or working within a strict budget.

    If guests ask, a kind and honest response goes a long way: “We would have loved to include everyone, but due to venue limitations, we’ve had to keep things quite intimate.”

    ALSO SEE: Wedding guest dress code explained

    Wedding guest dress code… explained

    Feature image: Pexels

    by
    Continue Reading
    5 Magical wedding venues in the heart of Gauteng
    In Advice

    The shift towards later marriages

    No Comments

    Once upon a time, saying “I do” in your early twenties felt like a given. Today? Not so much. South Africans are rewriting the rules of romance, choosing to marry later, more intentionally, and often with a clearer sense of self.

    ALSO SEE: The latest marriage statistics in South Africa

    The latest marriage statistics in South Africa

    Feature image: Pexels

    by
    Continue Reading
    marriage
    In Advice

    The latest marriage statistics in South Africa

    No Comments

    New data from Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) highlights a clear shift in South Africa’s relationship landscape: fewer people are getting married, while divorce rates are increasing, with women continuing to file for the majority of cases.

    But beyond the numbers, the data also points to something more meaningful: couples are approaching marriage with greater intention, and individuals are making more informed decisions about long-term commitment.

    Marriages continue to decline

    In 2024, South Africa recorded 102 373 marriages and unions, down 2.6% from 2023. Since 2015, marriages have decreased by 28.5%.

    Civil marriages followed the same pattern, declining to 97 510 in 2024. This steady drop suggests that many couples are choosing to marry later, taking more time before formalising their relationships.

    Divorce numbers are rising

    A total of 24 202 divorces were granted in 2024 — an 8.9% increase from the previous year.

    Women filed for 57.2% of these divorces, continuing a consistent trend. This reflects greater access to legal processes, as well as increased financial independence and decision-making power.

    Provincial breakdown

    Divorce cases initiated by women were highest in Gauteng (31.0%), followed by the Western Cape (18.6%) and KwaZulu-Natal (13.8%).

    Who is filing for divorce?

    Most women filing for divorce in 2024 were ending their first marriage (89.1%). The highest number of divorces occurred among women aged 40 to 44, followed by those aged 35 to 39.

    In most cases (70.7%), women were younger than their spouses.

    Employment and independence

    Of the women who filed for divorce, 44.6% were employed, many in professional, technical, managerial, and administrative roles. Financial stability gives individuals more control over major life decisions, including whether to stay in a marriage.

    When marriages end

    The largest share of divorces (26.7%) occurred in marriages lasting five to nine years, followed by 10 to 14 years (21.3%). Overall, 41.7% of divorces involved marriages that lasted less than a decade.

    A shift towards intentional commitment

    While the number of marriages is declining, the data suggests a move towards more considered, intentional unions. Many couples are choosing to marry later, after establishing careers and gaining life experience.

    ALSO SEE: (Don’t) put a ring on it

    (Don’t) put a ring on it

    Feature image: Pexels

    by
    Continue Reading
    zendaya
    In Celebs

    Zendaya’s ‘wedding photos’ break the internet

    No Comments

    When images of Zendaya and Tom Holland seemingly tying the knot began circulating online, fans didn’t hesitate to believe the fairytale. Set against the romantic stillness of Lake Como, the pictures looked convincingly real.

    There was just one catch: every single image was AI-generated.

    A viral illusion

    The photos spread like wildfire across Instagram and X, with millions liking, sharing and — crucially — believing what they were seeing. While some posts included small disclaimers labelling the images as “artistic recreations,” the detail was easy to miss in a sea of double taps.

    “They’re not real”

    Speaking on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, Zendaya addressed the moment with a kind of amused disbelief that feels very on-brand.

    While she was out in the real world, people were stopping her to gush over her “wedding photos”. Her response was simple: the images weren’t real.

    Even more surprising? It wasn’t just fans who were convinced. People in her own circle had seen the images and assumed they were legitimate, with some jokingly offended that they hadn’t been invited.

    Of course, the internet didn’t pull this narrative out of thin air. Rumours around the couple’s relationship have been quietly building for a while. Stylist Law Roach previously hinted that a wedding may have already taken place.

    Then came Paris Fashion Week, where Zendaya stepped out wearing a gold band, and suddenly speculation had something visual to latch onto.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by AI Gallery (@ainterestingaf)

    The reality behind the romance

    Zendaya and Holland’s real-life love story began on the set of Spider-Man: Homecoming, and since then, they’ve become one of Hollywood’s most quietly adored couples.

    They’re set to reunite again in Spider-Man: Brand New Day, with more shared screen time on the horizon, including The Odyssey.

    ALSO SEE: Lily Collins reunited with her engagement ring three years after it was stolen

    Lily Collins reunited with her engagement ring three years after it was stolen

    Source: Adapted from reporting by BBC News.

    Feature image: Zendaya/Instagram

    by
    Continue Reading
    wedding dress
    In Fashion

    Wedding dress inspo for autumn and winter brides

    No Comments

    For brides tying the knot in the colder months, long-sleeved wedding dresses and chic cover-ups offer the perfect balance between style and practicality. Think sheer lace sleeves, dreamy capes and cosy knits… Pieces that not only keep you warm but add depth and drama to your overall look.

    If a strapless gown isn’t quite your vision, consider this your cue to embrace something a little more seasonally inspired. These cold-weather options prove that covering up can be just as striking – if not more so.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Desert Rose Bride (@desertrosebride)

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Desert Rose Bride (@desertrosebride)

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by AlenaLeenaBridal (@alenaleenabridal)

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Jenny Yoo (@jennyyoonyc)

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Justin Alexander (@justinalexander)

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Nina Bridal (@ninashoesbridal)

    ALSO SEE: High-neck wedding dresses we love 

    High-neck wedding dresses we love

    Feature image: Alexander Mass/Pexels

    by
    Continue Reading
    wedding gown
    In Engagements

    Practical tips to find your perfect wedding gown

    No Comments

    Most women know what style of wedding dress they want. But have you considered the practicalities of finding your dream frock that have nothing to do with how it looks? Renowned local dress designer Janita Toerien lets us in on the little things you may overlook when shopping for your dress.

    WEAR THE RIGHT UNDERWEAR
    You head into the changing area with a pile of gorgeous dresses, you try on the first one and it is just so… anti-climactic. Why doesn’t it look like you imagined? Well, for one, you’re wearing a bright blue thong that throws off the whole look. Wear the right underwear so the G-string doesn’t make a shadow on the dress or you stress about panties that cut into your bum, says Janita. Fitting consultants won’t judge you on your granny panties or boy shorts! Wearing undies that match your skin tone and shape, and suck in where necessary, help smooth out the silhouette so you can see exactly how the dress is meant to fit.

    FACTOR IN WHERE YOU’RE GETTING MARRIED
    Janita says this is often forgotten: Is the dress practical for your wedding? Consider the physical aspects of where you’re getting married and how your dress will fit into that. For example, a heavy lace-trimmed train and veil will pick up little twigs and dirt as you walk down the aisle of a forest wedding. Or a heavy duchess satin dress will be uncomfortable hot at a midday beach wedding. Choose a dress in the style you love, but that will still allow you to be as comfortable as possible.

    THINK ABOUT THE GIRLS
    Don’t overlook the importance of your boobs: Too much cleavage can distract from your overall look; too covered up can look matronly, not to mention ensuring there’s no accidental spillage. Big busts always look great in a lower neckline, Janita says, but not too low – just enough to open up the chest and shoulder area. This can be a V-neck, off-the-shoulder or scooped neckline. But stay away from strapless, she pleads: “I could write a whole page about why, but for now just heed my advice.” For our flatter-chested sisters, your choices are much wider, but if you want your bust to appear larger, raise the neckline of the dress, she says. Whether it’s a halterneck, V-neck, boat or round neck, simply lift that line a few centimetres.

    WALK, SIT, CROUCH, BEND, DANCE!
    Standing in front of a mirror for 10 minutes isn’t going to give you the full effect of how a dress really wears. Does the top slip down? Do the straps fall off your shoulders? Does the bodice cut into your stomach when you sit? Do you trip on the hem? Get a feel for the dress by sitting, crouching, hugging your mom and busting out a move with your hands in the air. If at any point you have to readjust it, imagine doing that a couple of hundred times on the big day. If it can be fixed with alterations, get them done. If not, it’s probably best to move on.

    ASK ABOUT FABRICS
    Will it crease badly? Show sweat patches? Make you itchy? Don’t assume all dresses are made equal. Every kind of fabric has its own characteristics, Janita says, so a dress designer worth their salt will take the time to explain the different options and their pros and cons. Take bride fabric shopping to discuss exactly this. Does the fabric feel good on her skin? Does she perspire easily when under stress or does she have sensitive skin? These are all things to take into consideration.

    BUY FOR YOUR CURRENT SIZE, NOT YOUR IDEAL SIZE
    Many brides go on a weight-loss mission before the wedding. If you’re one of them, it’s best to try lose the weight (or close enough) before you start shopping around. You never know if you’re going to lose the weight in time, so don’t buy around what might happen. The last thing you want is an ill-fitting dress on your big day. It’s much easier to take a dress in with alterations than it is to let out, with much less risk of losing the dress completely.

    CLOSE YOUR CIRCLE
    What dress-shopping mistakes does Janita see brides making all the time?
    “They bring too many people with them, and do far too much shopping. First rule: when you start shopping, make sure you don’t want to have any more than three brides in your bridal party. Choose only two or three designers/boutiques to visit, and if you feel exhausted and overwhelmed at some point, take a step back, regroup and really think about what you want – ignore everyone else’s opinions.”

    EMERGENCY KIT:
    What should you pack for the day of the wedding?
    • Needle and thread
    • Double-sided tape
    • A pair of good scissors (Cut that train off if it gets in the way of dancing! Janita says)

    ALSO SEE: High-neck wedding dresses we love

    High-neck wedding dresses we love

    Written by Andrea Robertson for Wedding Etc. Summer 2019

    Feature image: Pexels

    by
    Continue Reading
    wedding content creator
    In Advice

    The rise of wedding content creators

    No Comments

    Once upon a time, your wedding memories lived in a carefully curated album and a highlight video you’d eagerly wait weeks to receive. Today? Your wedding day can live online before the last glass of champagne is poured. Enter the wedding content creator — the industry’s newest (and fastest-growing) must-have.

    From TikTok-worthy transitions to candid, blink-and-you’ll-miss-it moments, this new wave of creatives is reshaping how couples experience and remember their big day. And no, it’s not just for influencers.

    What is a wedding content creator?

    A wedding content creator is a professional hired to capture your day through a social media lens. Think vertical videos, iPhone footage, behind-the-scenes snippets, and real-time storytelling.

    Unlike traditional photographers or videographers, their focus isn’t editorial perfection; it’s immediacy and authenticity. They’re there for the in-between moments: the laughter before you walk down the aisle, the outfit changes, the dance floor chaos, the quiet glances no one else notices.

    In short, they document what your guests would have posted — but better.

    Not a replacement, though

    Let’s get one thing straight: wedding content creators are not here to replace photographers or videographers.

    Your photographer captures timeless, frame-worthy images. Your videographer crafts a cinematic narrative. A content creator, on the other hand, fills in the gaps by delivering raw, unfiltered moments that feel real and deeply personal.

    It’s less about choosing one over the other, and more about building a dream team that captures your day from every angle.

    Why wedding content creators are trending

    The social media shift

    Weddings have become inherently social. From proposal announcements to “get ready with me” reels, couples are documenting every step of their journey.

    Even those who wouldn’t consider themselves content creators are now thinking in terms of shareable moments.

    And with platforms prioritising short-form video, having someone who understands trends, timing, and storytelling is invaluable.

    Instant gratification is everything

    One of the biggest appeals? Speed.

    Instead of waiting weeks (or months), couples can receive content within 24 to 48 hours. That means:

    • Posting your first wedding reel while the excitement is still fresh

    • Reliving moments almost instantly

    • Sharing highlights with guests (and those who couldn’t attend) in real time

    The beauty of the unscripted

    There’s something undeniably special about the moments that aren’t planned.

    These are the memories that often mean the most — the ones you didn’t even realise were happening.

    The rise of unplugged weddings

    More couples are opting for unplugged ceremonies, asking guests to put their phones away and be fully present.

    But that doesn’t mean missing out on candid content.

    A wedding content creator ensures everything is still captured without a sea of phones in your aisle photos.

    Is it worth it?

    The short answer? It depends on how you want to remember your wedding.

    If you love the idea of:

    • Reliving your day instantly

    • Having content ready to share

    • Capturing candid, unfiltered moments

    • Telling a more complete story

    …then a wedding content creator might just be your favourite vendor.

    Even for couples who aren’t active on social media, the appeal lies in access — having a bank of real, emotional, beautifully imperfect moments to look back on.

    ALSO SEE: Get creative with your wedding dress after the big day

    Get creative with your wedding dress after the big day

    Feature image: Jonathan Borba/Pexels

    by
    Continue Reading
    wedding day tips for grooms
    In Advice

    Wedding day tips for grooms to keep the big day stress-free

    No Comments

    While much of the planning attention often centres on the bride, the groom has an important role to play too. A few simple preparations can help you look sharp, feel comfortable and stay calm throughout the celebration. These tips will help ensure everything runs smoothly before (and while) you say “I do”.

    Bring a spare shirt

    Weddings can be emotional, busy and sometimes warm. Between nerves, hugs and dancing, it’s easy to sweat through a shirt. Pack a second crisp shirt so you can change before the reception or photos later in the day.

    Empty your pockets

    Phones, wallets, keys and loose change can create awkward bulges in suit trousers and they will show in photos. Before the ceremony and portraits, do a quick pocket check and hand essentials to a groomsman.

    Break in your shoes

    Brand-new dress shoes might look great, but they can quickly become uncomfortable. Wear them around the house a few times before the wedding to soften the leather and avoid blisters.

    Do a full outfit trial

    Try on your entire outfit before the big day, from tie or bowtie to cufflinks and shoes. A quick dress rehearsal ensures nothing is missing and helps you feel confident getting ready on the morning of the wedding.

    Prepare your accessories

    Small details complete the look. Lay out your cufflinks, watch, belt, tie clip and pocket square the night before so you’re not rushing to find them while getting dressed.

    Practise your speech

    If you’re planning to give a speech, run through it a few times beforehand. You don’t need to memorise every word, but feeling familiar with the flow will help calm nerves and make the moment feel more natural.

    Keep a small groom kit

    A simple emergency kit can save the day. Include items like deodorant, breath mints, tissues, a lint roller and stain remover wipes and ask a groomsman to keep it nearby.

    Trim and groom ahead of time

    Schedule haircuts or beard trims two to three days before the wedding. This allows everything to settle so you look polished but natural in photos.

    Assign a trusted groomsman

    Give one groomsman the responsibility of holding essentials like the rings, vows or your phone. It keeps your pockets empty and your mind free from small worries.

    ALSO SEE: Wedding ceremony tips to know before you walk down the aisle

    Wedding ceremony tips to know before you walk down the aisle

    Feature image: Pexels

    by
    Continue Reading
    lily collins
    In Celebs

    Lily Collins reunited with her engagement ring three years after it was stolen

    No Comments

    For many brides, losing an engagement ring is the ultimate nightmare. For Lily Collins, that nightmare became a reality.  But the story now has a happy ending.

     

    Alternative engagement ring stones

    Feature image: Lily Collins/Instagram

    by
    Continue Reading