• Author

    Wedding ETC

    Browsing
    In Advice

    5 steps to planning the perfect rehearsal dinner

    No Comments

    As part of the wedding prep, the perfect rehearsal dinner will make for an evening of fun, love, and a chance to mingle before the big day. Lately, they’ve become known as extravagant evenings of dining, decor and preparations right before the wedding. But if you plan it right, you’ll be able to have a stress-free evening of celebration before your big day.

    STEP 1

    Make sure it’s clear who will be hosting and organising the event. It may be the groom’s side or the bride’s, or a combination. Make sure everyone is aware of their role to avoid any conflict or miscommunication on the night.

    STEP 2

    Decide on the kind of event you want to have. Do you prefer keeping it light and casual, or making it a big party? Let this set the precedent for the decor, the setting and the guest list.

    STEP 3

    Draw up the guest list. Aside from your bridal party, family and close friends, you may want to have certain people. This will depend heavily on the size of the event, the location and your personal preferences.

    STEP 4

    Whether you go big or small, creating a fun theme for the night will only add to the festivities. This can involve fun games and even some sneaky hints for the big day.

    STEP 5

    While it’s important to have a set schedule in place for how the evening will run, make room for surprises and deviations in the evening. For instance, you may have a set list of speakers, but if your other guests would like to say a few words then allow room for some extra time.

    You can also use your rehearsal dinner to spoil your guests with gifts for your bridal party and special thank yous to everyone who contributed to the planning of your special day.

    ALSO SEE: How to decide who gets an invite to your wedding

    How to decide who gets an invite to your wedding

    Image: Unsplash

    by
    Continue Reading
    invite
    In Advice

    How to decide who gets an invite to your wedding

    No Comments

    In terms of wedding decisions, choosing who will – and won’t – be getting an invite to your big day is right up there with the date and the dress. Unless you’re in a position to cater for 500 of your closest acquaintances, you’re going to have to be selective. So … who makes the cut?

    START WITH WHAT YOU KNOW

    Ultimately, the maximum number of invitations you send out depends on your budget and the size of your venue. Once you know how many guests you can afford or accommodate, you can start tailoring the guest list to match.

    DON’T PLAY A NUMBERS GAME

    A 50-50 split between you and your fiancé sounds logical, but don’t be constrained by ratios. You’ll definitely have some friendships that overlap. Plus, if one of you has a smaller family, there’s no point filling that ‘side’ with nice-to-have acquaintances while the other person has to tell a beloved uncle that there’s just no more room.

    BUSINESS AND PLEASURE

    It’s a reality that you spend as much time with your colleagues as you do with your fiancé. But do you want them at your wedding? Do you ever socialise with them other than after-work drinks? Do your topics of conversation start and end with bashing that annoying client? Have they met your husband- or wife-to-be? Do you see them still being in your life if you changed jobs? Be tactful in inviting those who do pass muster by keeping wedding office chatter to a minimum.

    ‘YOU REMEMBER AUNT SANDRA…’

    Family is where you’re likely to run into trouble; it’s a mire of obligation and potential for someone to take offence. This is where blanket rules become handy. For example, not inviting family members you haven’t seen in years, or who haven’t met your fiancé. Sticking to rules leaves little room for those who don’t make the list to complain.

    IT’S MY PARTY

    Your parents and future in-laws may expect to have a say in the guest list, especially if they’re helping to pay for it. They may want to invite friends who watched you grow up – or maybe just want to show off to the Joneses across the street. Allocate the parents an equal number of guest suggestions, but let them know the final decision rests with you. And stick to your guns – the only people you should invite are those you couldn’t imagine celebrating it without.

    A LESSON IN BEING RUTHLESS

    1.  ‘My number-one rule was that I wouldn’t meet anyone for the first time on my wedding day,’ says Storm Wilkinson, who put a ring on it in 2013. ‘I’m sorry if you’ve been dating for “like a million years” – I don’t know them, they’re not coming. Budgets are a harsh reality.’
    2. Once you’ve worked out a per-head cost, apply it to any guests you’re on the fence about. If spending that figure on that person makes you go: ‘Pffft,’ take their name off the list.
    3. Avoid fake-smiling on your wedding day. ‘You don’t want to have anyone at your wedding that you have to pretend to be happy to see,’ says Aleisha McCormack, host of The Bridechilla podcast. ‘Ditch them.’

    ALSO SEE: 5 tips to get your partner involved in the wedding planning

    5 tips to get your partner involved in the wedding planning

    Image: Unsplash

    by
    Continue Reading
    father of the groom
    In Advice

    8 guidelines for father of the groom

    No Comments

    The mother of the bride role comes with clear and concise instructions. So do the roles of father of the bride and maid of honour – but one of the most important, yet often overlooked roles, is that of the father of the groom.

    As times change, the duties allocated to the groom’s father have too, so if you’re unsure what to expect here are some unspoken guidelines.

    1. Suit up
    Possibly one of the most important duties of the groom’s father is that of suit selection. A son will often rely on his father to help pick out the perfect attire for his big day, give him a few tips and even make sure the tailor fit is just right.

    If the groom and groomsmen have an appointment for suit fittings the groom’s father should naturally attend as well and might be able to cash in on a discount along with the group.

    It is also important that you look the part for the big day so make sure you take your own fitting seriously.

    2. Offer to contribute to wedding costs
    It’s no secret that weddings cost a pretty penny – one of the most important ways to be involved and supportive of your son’s commitment is to be financially supportive.

    Offer up whatever you can to go towards the big day and ask where budget is needed.

    3. Attend or host the rehearsal dinner
    It some traditions the groom’s parents host the rehearsal dinner. This is the perfect opportunity for the groom’s father to step up and take centre stage to coordinate the night. Keep in mind what your son’s interests are, make sure the rehearsal is something that reflects his personality.

    4. Help where you can
    When it comes to weddings, there are so many aspects to consider and things to be done. As a supportive and proactive father of the groom, it is your duty to help where you can. Ensure you don’t limit your helpfulness to any specific duties and try your best to be available if needed. If you have a particular expertise that might come in handy, don’t be shy to offer.

    5. Hang out with the boys
    When the morning of the wedding arrives, it’s the father of the groom’s duty to hang with the boys and provide extra emotional support before the big event.

    It’s important to be supportive, positive and maybe even share a few funny stories about the groom’s childhood with his good friends to calm the nerves.

    Compliment your son on his wedding-day look and make him feel confident and ready to take to the alter. This is a special moment to give him some marital advice.

    6. Greet guests
    It goes without saying the the father of the groom should be prepared to greet guests, especially in the receiving line.

    Don’t be shy and put on your best, most welcoming smile while tending to each person who has come to share the special day with the lucky couple.

    7. Enjoy
    You can’t attend such an important day without enjoying it. Make sure you spend your time at the wedding well and smile, dance, eat and be merry.

    8. Say a little something
    Last but certainly not least, prepare a speech. It can often be a daunting task to put your thoughts on paper and especially to read them out to a room full of people, but this is your chance to rise above the nerves.

    Your speech does not have to be lengthy, in fact short and sweet is better.

    Make sure you put your heart into whatever you have to say, its not everyday that you get to share the first day of the rest of your child’s life with them and send them off with words that they will surely remember for years and years to come.

    ALSO SEE: Nail your wedding speech

    Nail your wedding speech

    Picture: Pexels

    by
    Continue Reading
    quirky wedding ideas
    In Advice

    7 quirky wedding ideas perfect for summer

    No Comments

    Make your big day a fun and festive affair with exciting and thoughtful quirky wedding ideas perfect for a beautiful summer’s day!

    1. A FLOWER WALL

    A flower wall can create a stunning fixture for your guests to take photographs. Make sure to use bright summer blooms to suit your theme.

    2. OUTDOOR GAMES

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Larkspur Lodge (@larkspurlodge)

    Let your guests bring out their inner child with fun outdoor games during the wedding reception. See our favourites here.

    3. DRINK INFUSIONS

    There’s nothing like fresh fruit infusions to quench your thirst under the hot sun. Set up a station with fresh and summery drink infusions where guests can fill up a glass every now and then.

    4. FESTIVAL VIBES

    Go full carnival for your big day with mini rides, food stalls and games your guests can take part in.

    5.  PICNIC TIME

    If you plan on having an outdoor wedding, set up picnic blankets and pillows for guests to relax on the lawns.

    6. BONFIRE BRAAI

    Following the picnic theme, light a bonfire or braai as the evening gets cooler for your loved ones to socialise around, marshmallows included!

    7. ICE CREAM STATION OR NAME CARDS

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by PartySlate.com (@partyslate)

    Spoil your guests with yummy frozen scoops of ice cream at an ice cream station to keep cool during your big day.

    ALSO SEE: Nail your wedding speech

    Nail your wedding speech

    Feature image: Unsplash

    by
    Continue Reading
    wedding canape
    In Food

    Pork and mushroom vol-au-vents for the perfect wedding canapés

    No Comments

    Looking for the perfect cocktail-hour starter while you and your new spouse step away for your photoshoot? These pork-and-mushroom vol-au-vents are an elegant wedding canapé option that keeps guests satisfied and the celebration flowing.

    Serves: 4
    Prep Time: 45 minutes
    Cooking Time: 3.5 hours
    Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes

    Ingredients

    Pork filling
    • 200 g boneless, skinless pork shoulder
    • 3 garlic cloves, finely grated
    • 2 tsp fresh thyme
    • 1 tsp salt
    • 1 tsp pepper
    • 1/2 tsp nutmeg
    • 1 tbsp olive oil
    • 1 cup chicken stock
    • 100 g brown mushrooms, finely chopped
    • 1 tbsp brandy
    • 1/2 cup cream
    • 30 g grated Parmesan

    Vol-au-vent cases

    • 2 x 400 g rolls of frozen puff pastry, thawed
    • 2 tbsp olive oil
    • 1 egg yolk
    • 1 tbsp milk

    Bacon crumble

    • 100 g streaky bacon

    You’ll need

    • 1 x 4 cm diameter cookie cutter
    • 1 x 1.5 cm diameter cookie cutter
    • 1 tbsp chopped chives to serve

    Method

    Pork filling

    1. Preheat the oven to 180ºC.
    2. Place the pork shoulder into a deep oven tray. Mix the garlic, thyme, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and olive oil in a small bowl. Rub this spice mixture all over the pork and pour the chicken stock into the tray. Cover the tray with foil and place into the oven.
    3. Roast the pork for 3 hours, or until pull-apart tender.
    4. When the pork is roasted, remove it from the oven, pour the juices into a jug, and reserve. Use two forks to shred the pork.
    5. Heat a medium-sized saucepan and add the olive oil. Add the chopped mushrooms and fry until browned and caramelised.
    6. Deglaze the pan with the brandy and cook for 1 minute. Add the roasting juices to the mushrooms and bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and add the cream.
    7. Add the Parmesan cheese and simmer for about 3 minutes, then add the shredded pork and heat through. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.

    Vol au vent cases

    1. Line a baking tray with baking paper.
    2. Unroll one roll of pastry and leave it on the plastic it was rolled in. Using the 4 cm cookie cutter, cut out 25 circles (or as many as it yields), then place these pastry circles upside down on the prepared baking sheet.
    3. Beat the egg yolk and milk together, and then brush the circles with this mixture – take care not to brush too close to or around the sides of the circles, as this can cause the pastry not to rise properly.
    4. Unroll the second sheet of pastry and keep it on the plastic it was rolled in; cut the same amount of circles. You will end up with a doughnut-shaped ring of pastry.
    5. Lift these, turn them upside down and place them on top of the original circles that you have already egg washed. This will form the sides of your ring-shaped piece of pastry.
    6. Using a fork, prick the bottom pastry in the centre hole of the ring layer to prevent it from puffin up during baking. Brush the top of the ring circles with egg wash, but again, be careful not to get it on the sides, otherwise, your vol-au-vents may not rise properly.
    7. Note: The circles that were removed from the centre of the pastry rings, as well as any leftover pastry, can be egg washed and cooked separately. The round centre pieces can serve as ‘hats’ for the vol-au-vents, should you choose to use them.
    8. Place the tray into the oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the vol-au-vents are well-risen and golden. Remove the pastry cases from the oven and allow them to cool.

    Bacon crumble

    1. Turn the oven to the grill setting. Lay the bacon on a baking sheet and place it into the oven for 8 to 10 minutes to cook until crispy. Alternatively, cook in an air fryer. Let it cool slightly, then chop to a fine crumb.

    To assemble

    1. Add 1 to 2 teaspoons of the pork and mushroom mixture to each vol-au-vent to fill. Sprinkle bacon crumbs over the top of each vol-au-vent and garnish with chopped chives. Serve immediately.
    Recipe and feature image: SA Pork 
    by
    Continue Reading
    destination wedding
    In Destination

    How to make a destination wedding easy on your guests

    No Comments

    There are many aspects of a destination wedding you should consider when planning one. Yes, it is your big day. You should be allowed the final say in what goes down over this period. Just remember, though, that the celebratory atmosphere of your wedding does depend, in part, on your guests having a good experience. They have given up part of their time, travelled a few miles, and spent quite a bit of money, to be there for you. So here’s some advice on how to make your destination wedding easier and more enjoyable for your guests.

    Firstly, long before you do anything else, tell everyone about your plans to tie the knot overseas. Those you wish to invite need time to schedule the trip, and some might not be able to make it due to financial issues or prior engagements. It would be better if they declined long before you did the seating arrangements or decided who will be in the bridal party.

    Now, once you know who’s definitely coming, don’t leave them hanging with regard to transport, directions and accommodation. Research what group rates are available for flights as well as hotel rooms. Definitely send them directions to the main venue, and in case transport might be difficult for them, organising a shuttle service would be a great favour.

    Once your guests have arrived, make them feel welcome. A lovely little note left in plain sight on the bedspread or dressing table is always a good idea. A tiny gift, perhaps a small confection particular to the country you’re getting married in, would also go down well. In addition, you should probably give them products essential in dealing with that country’s climate and natural surroundings. Bug spray and sunscreen are good ideas if you’re tying the knot outdoors in the baking heat of a tropical paradise.

    Lastly, while the wedding is the reason they came, it should not be the only activity on the weekend schedule. Organise something special for your guests, maybe a fun brunch or dinner at a nearby venue. This will be a good chance for your friends and family to touch base and catch up. After all, you do want all the special people in your life to get to know each other, and to get along, don’t you?

    ALSO SEE: How to pack for your honeymoon

    How to pack for your honeymoon

    Feature image: Pexels

    by
    Continue Reading
    partner involved
    In Guys

    5 tips to get your partner involved in the wedding planning

    No Comments

    You’ve had the big engagement and decided on a date – now it’s time to get down to the planning but your partner doesn’t seem keen on contributing. Wedding planning can be stressful enough without having a partner who is not interested in helping out, so we’ve put together these five tips to get your partner involved in planning your big day together.

    1. FROM THE GET-GO

    Make sure you are both discussing wedding options from the start. You don’t want to get ahead without your partner and leave them behind, only to want their input later on.

    2. BE OPEN MINDED

    Your partner may have some strange ideas, but try not to brush them off harshly, as you want them to continue making contributions. If you don’t like something, be gentle and explain why.

    3. GET HANDS-ON

    If there are certain areas that you know your partner will be interested in, such as the music, food or transport, then hand over those tasks, making sure you are both on the same page when it comes to what you want.

    4. ASK FOR HELP

    If you’re struggling to juggle all of the invitations, nagging family members and bookings, ask your partner if they can take on some of the tasks, or that you work on them together to ease the pressure.

    5. JUST BE HONEST

    Tell your partner that you want their input, after all, you both decided to have a wedding. Having open communication will help you to express how you feel as well as finding out what your partner wants.

    ALSO SEE: 5 ways to avoid a family takeover at your wedding

    5 ways to avoid a family takeover at your wedding

    Feature image: Priscilla du Preez/Unsplash

    by
    Continue Reading
    family takeover
    In Advice

    5 ways to avoid a family takeover at your wedding

    No Comments

    Letting your family help out with all the wedding planning can be fun, exciting, and a relief. But they can often become too involved and start taking over, causing unnecessary drama and stress before the big day. It’s important to set some boundaries while still letting your loved ones know that their help is appreciated, which is why we’ve come up with simple solutions to getting everyone involved without it turning into a family takeover,

    1. KEEP IT SPECIFIC

    Assign your family members certain tasks to complete, making sure they keep you informed with their progress. This can be anything from making invitations to table decorations, leaving you to sort out the bigger decisions.

    2. COMMUNICATION

    Keep in contact with your family about your decisions and the progress of the wedding planning. This will allow them to feel like they are a part of it all, and that you value their opinion. It’s also important to speak up when you are unhappy, but approach it in a calm and gentle way.

    3. COMPROMISE

    If your parents are footing some of the bill, they’ll want to have a say in some of the arrangements. Welcome their ideas, but also explain your and your fiancée’s vision for your wedding before you get started.

    4. GET YOUR WEDDING PLANNER INVOLVED

    If you’re feeling overwhelmed with pressure from all sides, get your wedding planner to step in and act as a buffer between you and your family. This will also give them the opportunity to update everyone on the wedding progress and what plans are in place to achieve your vision.

    5. OFF LIMITS

    Keep certain aspects of the wedding planning decisions off limits. This doesn’t mean you can’t involve your family or keep them in the loop, but be strictly clear that it is for you to decide. This can be about your guest list, the dress, or wedding cake. To counter any protests, give your family something they are passionate about, such as the catering or wedding stationery.

    ALSO SEE: Relaxing bachelorette party ideas for the chilled bride

    Relaxing bachelorette party ideas for the chilled bride

    Image: Unsplash

    by
    Continue Reading
    In Advice

    How to tie a bow tie

    No Comments

    Bow ties are a classic option that will add the finishing touch to your wedding day outfit. As dashing as they are, the sophisticated embellishment is a bit tricky to pull off. If you’re unsure and want to pull off the tasteful look yourself, here’s how to tie a bow tie on your wedding day, or any other day you want to look extra dapper:

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Bahamas Weddings on a Budget (@bahamasweddingsonabudget) on

    Step by step

    Choose a great bow tie 

    Black is a classic colour to choose but if your wedding vibe allows for it, consider opting for a funky colour, pattern or material.

    Sizing 

    To ensure you get that dashing and sophisticated look, adjust the bow tie according to your neck size. Ask a sales assistant to measure your neck when purchasing a bow tie. There should be an adjustable slider or a hook and holes that will allow you to make the bow tie bigger or smaller.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by bubibubi ties (@bubibubi_ties) on

    How to tie 

    The most popular choice is the butterfly bow tie.

    First place your bow tie around your neck facing up. Make sure that the right side is shorter than the left. Your left end is A and the right end is B.

    Move A over to the right. It will be across from B. It should form an X shape.

    Move A under B and bring it up through the neck loop.

    You can now fold B towards the right and finally to the left, which will then create the bow shape.

    The A side can now move straight down over the middle section (the bow shape)

    A can be folded towards the chest.

    Pinch the fold.

    You need to push A through the loop behind B.

    Finally, pull on the folded parts which will tighten it. Adjust the bow tie to be balanced on both sides.

    ALSO SEE: How to pack for your honeymoon

    How to pack for your honeymoon

    Feature image: Unsplash

    by
    Continue Reading
    Signature cocktails
    In Drinks

    Signature cocktails to serve at your wedding

    No Comments

    Signature cocktails don’t necessarily have to be something invented from scratch. It can simply be one delicious drink for you to serve your guests all night long, with a few personal touches and add-ons, of course.

    THE CLASSIC MOJITO

    Mojitos are perfect as a simple starter and are an easy choice with its neutral flavours of mint, lime and gin. Spice things up by adding your favourites herbs and spices, or serve a fruity option.

    RED WINE SANGRIA

    A little sweet and the perfect summer drink, sangria is a delicious option that is affordable to serve as well. Make it before the time with your and your partner’s favourite summer fruits, a dry red and some fresh fruit juice.

    MARGARITAS

    This classy drink is another easy (and super affordable) option to have. Grab some tequila, lime, oranges and water and mix it up for a fun, summery cocktail. Even better? Set out a bunch of yummy ingredients to create a margarita-making station for your guests.

    FRENCH 75

    If you want to keep things really simple but still fun, opt for your usual quality champagne and add a dash of gin, lemon juice and sugar. You can also add some fruits and herbs to garnish, depending on whether you are going for a winter or summer theme. We love taking inspiration from a Bellini by adding a teaspoon of fresh fruit puree to the bottom of each glass. Guests who prefer a sweet drink will appreciate this touch.

    WATERMELON PUNCH BOWLS

    Having a punch bowl at your wedding says that you are a fun and laid-back couple who enjoy the summertime. First, choose your spirit. We recommend something with a more neutral flavour, like vodka or can. Add watermelon pieces, water, mint, lime and watermelon puree and you have a delicious and refreshing beverage for your guests!

    A HOT IRISH COFFEE

    For an autumn or winter wedding, a delicious and warm cocktail is an excellent way to treat your guests. If you want to make the Irish Coffee sweeter, replace the whiskey with Kahlua, or serve each to give your guests the option. If it’s really cold, Kahlua hot choccie goes down really well too!

    ALSO SEE: Interactive Wedding Food & Drink Stations: Elevate Your South African Reception

    Interactive Wedding Food & Drink Stations: Elevate Your South African Reception

    Images: Pinterest

    Feature image: Pexels

    by
    Continue Reading