Wedding ETC, Author at Wedding ETC

In Engagements

5 fun games to play at your engagement party

October 12, 2020 No Comments

Engagement parties are among the most exciting celebrations before the wedding day. Throwing an engagement party gives the guests of honor and the couple a lovely way to remember the moment.

With these five fun, fool-proof engagement party games, everyone will share a laugh with each other and the bride and groom-to-be!

Two Truths And A Lie

This game is mostly used as an ice breaker to make everyone comfortable, and is a fun way for guests to get to know each other.

First, gather everyone into a group. Going around in a circle, each person will make three statements about himself or herself, two of which are true and one of which is false. The rest of the group votes on what they think is truth or lie, and then the big reveal.

Battle Of The Sexes

This game is almost like 30 seconds, but it is gender-related questions. This is also readily available for purchase if you do not want the admin of compiling the questions.

You need to compile two lists of things you expect most men to know, and one of the information most women would likely know. The teams take turns asking the opposite sex questions.

Ring Toss

Is there any lawn game that’s better named for an engagement party? Gather friends and family around for a few games of ring toss, the family favourite that involves landing hoops on stakes to score points. Make this even more engagement-themed by decorating your hoops with a DIY diamond.

Message in a bottle

Set out a beautiful glass bottle and create a station with pens and slips of paper where guests can write a note to the couple. The couple can take turns and guess who message is from, every time they get it wrong they take a shot or eat something bitter.

Wedding Relay Race

Liven up your engagement party with a few rounds of a wedding-themed relay race. It works perfectly for guests of all ages and is a lot of fun if you have kids at your party. Gather outdoors or make some space indoors for an amusing relay race using props like garters, rings, or bouquets. The team that can reach the finish line first without dropping their prop is the winner.

Picture: Unsplash

In Advice

5 things to consider when planning your wedding registry

October 8, 2020 No Comments

It is very frustrating to receive three of the same thing from different people as a wedding gift. This is because people think in similar ways and they normally don’t know what to get you and so they resort to common gifting. As the bride, you can avoid this and the admin that comes with it. Here’s how:

Don’t wait until the last minute

Start planning and send out your registry ahead of time, you want your wedding registry to be one of the things you do at the beginning of your wedding planning.

Making and setting up a registry takes more time than you might expect it and deserves your attention because you won’t have time to redo it.

Be realistic and practical

In your wedding registry, you should already be thinking ‘home’ and because of that, your gifts should be practical items that will make the transition of starting a new life easy.

Make a list of things you want in your house but won’t be able to get soon, these should be the gifts your friends and family get you.

Also be mindful of the people buying, you don’t want to make them pay exorbitant amounts but you don’t want cheap gifts, so get a few quotations on each item.

Share your registry

Once you’ve created your wedding registry, make sure you share it with your guests.

This includes coming up with easy ways to access your registry. It could be online where a person can click and get it or share a link with your guests.

Make sure to have a checklist option available for you and the people buying gifts, this makes it easy to see what has been bought and what is left.

Make it a joint project

Put aside some quality couple time to contemplate your future life together and think about what kinds of gifts would make you happy.Your partner must have input on the registry because this is the beginning of your life together, you don’t want anyone feeling left out.

Look for great deals

Before choosing where to register, find out what kinds of perks and discounts you might get.Approach your desired shops for a registry, they usually give discounts for bulk registry purchases.This option helps get expert advice from someone who’s knowledgeable.

Picture: Unsplash

In Accessories

Match your flower arrangement with the season

October 7, 2020 No Comments

Flowers play a very important role on the wedding day, so it is important to match them to the season. Like fruit, flowers are seasonal, and getting the ones you love will sometimes be expensive if they are out of season.

Summer

Having a summer wedding is the easiest season because you are guaranteed the best weather, most flowers have bloomed and available and you can have an outdoor wedding. These flowers thrive best in summer:

Roses

Roses can be dressed up or down in a bouquet for any type of wedding. You are never limited to colours with these flowers. Shades range from red, yellow, pink, and orange to purple and white. Be careful though, each colour has its own symbolism!

Chrysanthemum

These flowers are perfect for a summer vintage wedding theme. They are available in hues such as yellow, orange, white, red, purple, and pink.

Sunflowers

Sunflowers were made for summer with their bright, happy hues and appearance. They’re the perfect bloom for a rustic wedding. They are mostly yellow but you can find orange and red varieties.

Winter

Winter weddings are popular for thsoe that love the season, and tend to be more intimate and indoors. The weather is mostly gloomy but your decor doesn’t have to be, here are flowers to help.

Camellias

Camellias are one of winter’s most-loved flowers Their petals are layered, which adds plenty of texture and you can pair them with thorny green. Their peak blooming season allows them to be readily available and easy to use.

Carnations

These cuties continue to bloom and thrive during winter’s cold months, and they are also available in a variety of colours like shades of red, purple, pink, and white. They make a room come alive with their flexibility.

Ranunculus

Ranunculus are great to use if you are going for the all-white soft florals theme. They are perfect for the bouquet and the groom’s pocket flower.

Spring

Spring is the season of hope. During this time everything is bright and beautiful, the sun is out but not too harsh and you want to look like a blooming flower. Your wedding should represent that vibe with these options:

Tulips

Tulips are great flowers and they look vibrant. You will find them in every colour except for black, blue, and green.

Peony

It’s one of the most loved flowers of the wedding season and it’s easy to see why the peony is an all-time favourite. It is the perfect mix of softness and texture, the flower also has a secret meaning – ‘a happy marriage’. It is available in white, cream, burgundy, soft pink, crimson, rose pink, and deep pink

Lilac

These beautiful flowers have a great beautiful soft scent. They are available in pure white, pale lilac, deep lilac, and pale pink.

Autumn

This is a season of natural colours. Everything is wilting and is mostly windy, it is hard to imagine that there are flowers that bloom when trees fall. Here are flowers you can find in autumn to make your wedding a day to remember:

Dahlias

These flowers are a nice balance between organic and refined. They are commonly mixed with greens to make a grounding look on your decor. You can find them in pink, white, and a quiet orange.

Zinnias

The Zinnias have an ombre effect. They have a calming effect and can be a great use for a barn-themed wedding. You will find them in various shades, from deep burgundy to the palest blush.

Protea

South Africa’s national flower is fitting for a wedding day. It is symbolic of change and transformation across cultures.

Pictures: Unsplash

In Celebs

Looking back Romeo and Basetsana Kumalo’s 18th anniversary

October 6, 2020 No Comments

Entrepreneur, media personality, and telecommunications expert Romeo Kumalo and former Miss South Africa and businesswoman, Basetsana Kumalo are one of South Africa’s iconic couples. The two have been together for 21 years but married for 19 years.

The former Miss South Africa met her Vodacom executive and former broadcaster husband Romeo whe she was crowned Miss Soweto in 1990. They began dating in 1997 and tied the knot in 2000.

The notoriously private pair are a powerhouse together, and rarely share details into their life.

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18th Anniversary

On their 18th anniversary, their children asked them how come there were no wedding pictures, so the duo decided to relive the moment and have a second wedding for their 18th anniversary.

They had an intimate celebration that only family and friends attended.

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Basetsana and Romeo included their children this time around. This was initially their idea so it was fitting for them to cut the cake.

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Basetsana’s friend Dr Mpho Ndou helped the Kumalos create “the most exquisite” setting for their special day.

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The view from the venue was spectacular, fitting for a couple like Basetsana and Romeo

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Picture: Instagram

In Celebs

A songbird’s love story: John Legend and Chrissy Teigen

October 5, 2020 No Comments

One of the world’s favourite celebrity couples has a classic Hollywood love story. John Legend and Chrissy Teigen did not expect to find love on September 14, 2006, but they did, and they’ve been together ever since.

The pair met on set back in 2006. John legend was shooting a music video for the song ‘Stereo’ and Chrissy was playing his love interest. Here is how that turned into a lifetime of music, laughter, and love.

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Chrissy Teigen was 20 years when she met John, then 28. Sparks flew the minute they met on set, and the pair even spent the evening together in Legend’s hotel room afterwards. They continued to stay in contact with one another but never defined the relationship.

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After a year of chatting and getting to know each other, they took their first trip to Lake Como in Italy in 2007. By this time they had already decided that they were a couple but were secretly dating. In 2008 the duo appeared for the first time as a couple at the 50th annual Grammy awards.

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In 2011, Legend proposed while on vacation in the Maldives. Upon their arrival, he took her out and had organized a Christmas-themed dinner and hid the ring in a silver serving dome under a pile of arugula.

They tied the knot on September 10, 2013, at the New York courthouse. Their big wedding was in Lake Como, Italy on September 14.

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Chrissy walked down the aisle with her father, wearing a stunning princess-style Vera Wang gown.

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For the reception, she wore a mermaid gown with a micro-pleated bodice and sheared organza full skirt. The third dress was to party all night. She wore another mermaid dress in red.

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Kim Kardashian was amongst the celebrities that attended the wedding, Stevie Wonder performed for the couple.

They had a four-tiered naked carrot cake layered with cream cheese frosting.

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In 2015, Chrissy and John announced their first pregnancy, Chrissy shared the news on Instagram in a beautiful post. Baby Luna was born in 2016 on April 14. In November 2017 they announced their second pregnancy and this time it was a boy – on May 17, 2018 Miles was born.

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Chrissy and John were expecting another baby this year. They announced the third pregnancy in August 2020 but sadly they lost the baby on September 30, 2020.

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In Accessories

What to consider when resetting your engagement ring

September 30, 2020 No Comments

Do you sometimes wish to have a different ring on your ring finger? Look no further. Here are FAQs and all you need to know when thinking of resetting your ring

A ring makeover does not have to cost you an arm and a leg, and you don’t have to buy a completely new ring either. You can rearrange your stones and make them brand new.

1. Why reset your ring
There are many reasons to reset your ring and those may include a divorce, feeling your ring is worn out, or just wanting a new look. However, when you reset your ring, its value changes and it will no longer be the original price.

2. Cost to reset
Resetting your ring may cost from R5000 to R20 000, depending on the design and the type of stone it is. The cost is less expensive than buying a new ring. However, adding new diamonds might cost more so you need to do your maths before taking your ring for a new look.

3. How long will it take
The waiting period depends on what you want to be done on your ring and it also depends on where you take it. Adding more diamonds might take longer. If you take your ring to a local jeweler it might take up to six weeks to finish it but private jewelers may have it done faster.

4 Know your stone
Do your research about your stone. It will make it easy for you to decide what to do with it if you know a little more about it. This way, you know what to expect from reconstruction and the risks.

5. Insurance
Mistakes happen all the time and you want to avoid them happening to your stone but you can never be a 100% sure, the best thing to do is make sure your ring is insured and ask your jeweler what is their policy if they mess or break the stone, have that written down to protect yourself. Normally, jewelers have a free repair policy but asking won’t hurt.

6. Ask
Jewelry is an important piece in anyone’s life because there is always a story behind it. When you take your ring for resetting, ask as many questions as you possibly can. Do your research prior and go prepared. This will save you.

Picture: Pexels

In Weddings

How to have a pet-friendly wedding

September 29, 2020 No Comments

They say that a dog is a man’s best friend, so it seems natural they would be involved in your big day. Pet-lovers can include their furry companions on their wedding day in a number of ways, but it is most important to make sure your wedding is pet-friendly before doing so.

There are many things to consider, like whether the venue accommodates pets and how the guests will react. Here’s what to keep in mind.

1. Location

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If you are planning to have your pet present at your wedding, it is very important to consider the venue of the wedding. Consult your wedding planner when you are booking a venue because some places do not allow pets inside. It might be best to opt for an outdoor wedding where your pups can run free.

2. Guests

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If you plan to have pets present, make sure to let your guests know beforehand. Some people are allergic to certain animals or have deep fears that can impact on their experience at your wedding. To avoid the drama, include in your wedding invitation which animals will be present and allow your guest to decide if they are still comfortable to attend.

3. Pet behaviour

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You know your pet best. You know how they act around people and what things make them happy, so when you plan on including your four-legged friends, know exactly which tasks to give them. You wouldn’t want to give the tasks or of a ring bearer to a puppy that likes playing catch or is super energetic. Its also best to hire a pet sitter to look after the animals during the day while you’re busy mingling with your guests.

4. Inform the photographer

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Tell your photographer in advance that you are planning on bringing along your pet to the wedding, this gives them time to plan creative ways to take pictures that include your pet.

5. Dress-up

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Consider something simple and pet friendly when you dressing up your pet for the wedding. You do not want to make them uncomfortable with things that could potentially strangle them, a bow tie or flowers around the neck is the perfect option.

6 Decor and setting

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Use the decoration of the wedding venue to get creative and include your pets on the decor to make them feel included on the big day.

Pictures: Pexels

In Celebs

Interesting facts about Kate Middleton’s wedding dress

September 28, 2020 No Comments

Everyone remembers April 29, 2011, the day that people across the world were fixated on their screens for the highly anticipated Royal wedding. Kate Middleton, a non-royal, was marrying Prince William. Some were waiting to see the decor and others, the guests. However, the wedding dress was the true show stopper of the day.

Many wondered who will have the honour of designing Kate’s dress. Sarah Burton, a famed designer for Alexander McQueen, was given the momentous task.

Kate chose to combine tradition and modernity on her dress, fitting for a princess. The dress was made out of ivory satin on the waist and hips. The waist also had a corset that shaped the dress.

The lace appliqué for the bodice and skirt was hand-made by the Royal School of Needlework, based at Hampton Court Palace.

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Interesting facts

The train of the dress was almost three metres long (2.7m).

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The embroiderers had to wash their hands every 30 minutes to avoid dirtying the gown.

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Individual flowers were hand-cut from lace and hand-engineered onto ivory silk tulle to create a design which incorporates the rose, thistle, daffodil and shamrock.

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The inspiration behind the skirt was that it opens like a blossoming flower

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There were 58 buttons down the back of the dress

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In Celebs

A love like this: Dineo and Solo Langa

September 25, 2020 No Comments

Actress Dineo and rapper Zothile (Solo) Langa are constantly serving us ‘couple goals’. The pair met many moons ago but were not public about their romance until four years into the relationship.They have been married for over a year but have been together for 8 years.

Here’s how this famed South African couple fell in love.

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A post shared by Dineo Langa (@dineomoeketsi) on Jan 9, 2016 at 11:54am PST

Dineo met Solo eight years ago through a mutual friend, Leroy. He had set them up to a blind date anaware to them, but luckily it was love at first sight. Solo asked for her phone number and texted her on the same day. They later went out for dinner that very same day and have been together since.

On their Showmax wedding series, Kwakuhle kwethu, Dineo admitted to having a huge crush on him and could not wait longer than five minutes to text him back.

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Solo took to social media to explain how he proposed to Dineo. They were on a holiday in Mozambique in January 2019 and he has already planned to propose. He explained how a person might think it would be easy to propose to their best friend, but it was nerve-wracking for him.

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The couple tied the knot on May 11, 2019 at the Kitchen L’antico Giardiono in Johannesburg. They had a secret ceremony where they changed outfits twice, and guests could only post pictures of themselves and not the wedding itself. They later gave us the Kwakuhle kwethu series showcasing their wedding.

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The couple share a YouTube channel where they share an inside look into their personal life. On the channel they touched on their spiritual journey as these two lovebirds are trained, traditional healers.

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They say that friendship and spirituality make them who they are. From the day they met, their conversations were easy and endless and they continue building on that.

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Pictures: Instagram

In Advice

Ginspiration for the perfect gin bar on your wedding day

August 27, 2020 No Comments

What makes a wedding all the more special is having the perfect drink to cheers with. When it comes to drinks, nothing goes down better than a classic G&T. If you agree; here are a few ways to make a standout gin bar at your wedding.

Choose your vibe

A lot of a gin bar is the vibe. Decide whether you’re going for a classic high tea look, mid-century modern touch or bohemian and base your gin choices around that.

With your concept in mind choose your setup, whether that be a gin tent, truck, stand or picnic area. While its a gin bar, its also a statement and a decorative piece of your big day so don’t be afraid to add a little something extra to your look.

The look and feel of your gin bar speaks to your personal style and can be customised to the last detail.

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So proud of our wedding gin bar. Just can’t believe there was barely any left to bring home! #ginbar #weddingginbar #weddingginspiration #ginmenu #nottheroyalwedding #nosuchthingastoomuchgin #craftgin #craftginbar #gincollection #ginbargoals #gingoals

A post shared by Lauren Nicole (@rishworth_life) on May 21, 2018 at 7:17am PDT

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Saturday my amazing couple had a Gin bar…and not just any gin bar, a horse box gin bar! Now this is 2 of my loves in life combined! Horses and gin for the win! If you’re considering a gin bar then look up @the_gin_inn they are fabulous! ?

A post shared by Relaxed Wedding Photography (@samcookphoto) on Aug 6, 2019 at 4:53am PDT

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We love our recently acquired G & T letters. Thank you @holt_antiques_interiors_centre perfectly finished off this little set up along with some vintage coloured glass and of course a lovely bottle of Norfolk Gin! Norfolk gin and tonic perfect for a warm summer evening?? #sustainablebusiness #sustainableweddings #proudlynorfolk #supportnorfolkbusinesses #tipiweddings #woodlandweddingvenue #rusticweddingdecor #rusticweddings #norfolkweddingsuppliers #norfolkweddingvenues #ecoweddings #weddingsuppliers #rusticbride #norfolkbridetobe #ecoweddinginspiration #rusticweddinginspiration #rusticweddingideas #rusticweddingstyling #prophire #bridetobe2021 #ecoweddingplanner #outsidewedding #tipiweddings #rusticweddingdecor #rusticweddings #norfolkweddingsuppliers #ecoweddings #weddingsuppliers #rusticbride #ecoweddinginspiration #norfolkbridetobe #prophire #bridetobe2021 #ecoweddingplanner #vintageglassware #weddingginbar

A post shared by Samphire Vintage Props (@samphirevintageprops) on Aug 12, 2020 at 1:05pm PDT

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We had a ball taking part in a styled wedding shoot at @horstedpondfarm back in July. Planning your big day and looking for some inspo? Check out the images and super talented supplier list below ??✨?? Concept, Coordination, Styling & Bell Tents: @beneaththecanopy Venue: @horstedpondfarm Photography: @kirstymackenziephotography Tipis and furnishings: @lovetipisofficial Flags: @eventflaghire Bunting: @bohotemple Prop hire, tassel & glitter walls, styling and accessories: @tohaveandtohire_weddings Stationery & map: @paperbearlane Jackets, home accessories, throws and cushions: @sarahbaily Wedding dress: @pantilesbride Headpieces, bouquet and button holes: @f.o.l.k.y.d.o.k.e.y Make-up advisor and hair: @lucymeyermakeupartist_ Blooms: @ferncottagefloristry Models: @meeraroses @benjamins_craft Wedding bands: @benjamins_craft Celebrants: @kateandkatecelebrants Jewellery: @jackandfredas Grazing table and platters: @grazingsocial Cakes and smores: @coppice_cakes Doughnuts: @marblekitchenuk Lollipops: @emilys_lollies Pizza Truck: @tinroofkitchen Cider: @nightingalecider Trousers and Top for evening shots: @lucymeyermakeupartist_

A post shared by Vintage Citroën HY Mobile Bar (@theginemporiumco) on Aug 18, 2020 at 11:56am PDT

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Sunny ☀️ days like today bring back memories of weddings in the sunshine at @thecowshedcrail with their gorgeous courtyard sun trap #tartupyourtipple #scottishsunshine #scottishginbar . . . #scottishwedding #scottishweddings #scottishweddingplanner #scottishweddingplanning #covidweddingplanning #cowshedwedding #thecowshedcrail #tippleinatuktuk #weddingginbar #weddingbar #mobilebarscotland #scottishgin #scottishgins #ginbar #mobileginbar #mobileginbarforhire

A post shared by Tipple In A TukTuk (@tippleinatuktuk) on Jun 18, 2020 at 9:28am PDT

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El Gin Tonic perfecto existe??? ???? Para averiguar este dilema existencial ???que os parece un GIN BAR ♥️ como este para sorprender a vuestros invitados? Dale un toque diferente y original a tu evento con un rincón como este!???✨ . . ? WhatsApp 676102676 ?mensaje directo [email protected] . . #weddingginbar #bodasbonitasmalaga #decoracionbodasvintage #gintonicbarmalaga #decoraciondebodasmalaga #decoraciondeeventosmalaga #bodasmalaga2020 #poolpartymalaga #beautypartymalaga #bodasoriginalesmalaga #bodasexquisitas #exquisitaweddings

A post shared by Pepita Exquisita (@exquisitaweddings) on Jul 18, 2020 at 6:03am PDT

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What a corker of an idea this wedding lounge is! Stocking it with a selection of gins from @cambridgeginlab would be a great touch . . . . #cambridgeginlab #cambridgegin #cambridgeshirewedding #weddinglounge #weddingginbar #ginbar #cambridgeshirebridalboutique #cambsbridalboutique

A post shared by Cambridgeshire Bridal Boutique (@cambridgeshirebridalboutique) on May 2, 2020 at 7:30am PDT

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Remember to enquire about our signature gin bar when booking your special day with us… For bookings and enquiries contact us on : [email protected] +27 828062560 +27 825693766 We look forward to hearing from you. . . . #eaglescryvenue #weddingvenues #kznweddingvenue #ginbar #weddingginbar #weddings #northcoastweddingvenue #ballito #ballitoweddings #ballitoweddingvenue #perfectvenueforawedding #ownerrunbusiness #venuewithaview #weddingvenuesofinstagram #ginbarsofinstagram #bookwithustoday???

A post shared by Eagles Cry Wedding & Functions (@eaglescryvenue) on Apr 1, 2020 at 3:09am PDT

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A Gin Bar at your Drinks Reception is always a good idea! ⁠ ⁠ #ginbar #weddingginbar #drinksreception #gindrinksreception #weddingreception #weddingideas #donegalwedding #donegalbride #uniqueweddingideas #muffliquor #muffgin #drinkaware

A post shared by Weddings at Harvey’s Point (@donegalwedding) on Mar 10, 2020 at 10:01am PDT

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Love this gorgeous bar set up ? Custom cocktails, signage & greenery are all bang on trend for 2020, so this ticks all the boxes pretty perfectly! ???? . . . #weddingbar #customweddingsign #weddingcocktailbar #weddingbardecor #contemporarybar #weddingcocktails #signatureweddingcocktail #tonicbar #ginandtonic #gincocktail #weddingginbar {? @brides}

A post shared by Wedding Planner Bristol (@theplanninglounge) on Dec 10, 2019 at 9:01am PST

Gins & cocktails

When it comes to choosing the gins, you have to decide whether you are going for the classic G&T offering or whether you’ll serve up specially made cocktails for the day. A large portion of this decision depends on whether you’re outsourcing help for your bar or simply arranging it yourself with a bartender or two to help.

Customised cocktails are a nice touch that can tie into you and your partner’s history but they are extra effort due to additional ingredients needed.

If you’re a purist and like your gin with a classic tonic or soda then opting for G&Ts is perfect for you.

Gin choices are up to taste, more classic unflavoured option will suit a purist palate while more flavoured and coloured gins work well for cocktails. Opting for a few pricey and some more budget options can help ease the pressure on your pocket too.

Local gins are lovely and fall into a price bracket that is easier to budget for.

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G I N B A R ✨ – Are you having a mini bar at your wedding? – An absolute success with the guests I tell ya! – – – – – #weddingginbar #realwedding #realweddings #lancashireweddingphotographer #clitheroewedding #clitheroeweddingphotographer #shireburnarms #shireburnarmswedding #prestonweddingphotographer #leedsweddingphotographer #yorkshireweddingphotographer #diyweddingideas

A post shared by Leeds Wedding Photographer (@louisebarryphotographer) on Oct 7, 2019 at 10:26pm PDT

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There are definitely worse ways to spend a Sunday afternoon that doing some wedding planning with a G&T in hand.. Whose having a gin bar at their wedding? Gin glasses available for hire from @cohire #gin #ginsunday #summerdrinks #sunnysussex #ginbar #ginwedding #weddinggin #weddingginbar #weddingplanning #wedmin #sussexwedding #octoberwedding #behindthescenes #thefacebehindthebusiness #dayoff #weddingadmin #twisnbiz #sussexbride #bridetobe

A post shared by Wedding Stationery and Design (@theweddingprintshop) on Jul 29, 2019 at 1:01am PDT

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Hump day G+T’s! Yes please! Thanks @poortoms and @capisparkling ?? what’s your fave garnish? … ours is cucumber and rosemary ❤️ STYLING + STATIONERY DESIGN || @the_bluebird_collective PHOTOGRAPHY || @leeroy.t FURNITURE || resoandcohire CERAMICS || @katherinemahoneyceramics FLORAL DESIGN || @botanicabird LINEN || @event_art CUTLERY ||@kinnowcutlery GIN || @poortomsgin TONIC || @capiaustralia

A post shared by Hunter Valley Wedding Stylist (@the_bluebird_collective) on Mar 13, 2019 at 1:33am PDT

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I’m off to a gin and canape tasting today at @12apostleshotel , which has me reflecting on this incredible gin bar from Rach and Matt’s beautiful wedding! See more of their gorgeous details on the blog! (link in profile) P.S. How stunning is their delft style patterned tablecloth? . . . Photography by @andstory.co.za #loveandthemoonweddings #loveandthemoon #loveandthemoonblog #loveandthemooncouples #loveintentionally #makeadventure #diyginbar #loveauthentic #filmpalette #littlethingstheory #adventurealways #portraitcollective #chasinglight #makemoments #momentsovermountains #elopementcollective #agameoftones #exploretocreate #letsgosomewhere #ginandtonicstyle #firstsandlasts #weddingtrendilove #weddingtrends2018 #weddingbar #weddingginbar #chicginbar

A post shared by Love & The Moon Blog (@loveandthemoonweddings) on Jul 7, 2018 at 10:45pm PDT

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#christiaandavid #weddingphotography #southafricanweddings #gautengweddings #weddingginbar #weddingvibes #brideandgroom #bridaldetail #weddindetail #oliveandplates #wits #witsuniversity

A post shared by ?????????? ????? STUDIO (@christiaandavidstudio) on Jan 18, 2018 at 11:00pm PST

Garnish, garnish, garnish

Opinions vary on how much garnish a gin drink should have, but whether you prefer your drink with a good splash of agriculture or a simple prig of thyme; garnish makes a drink.

If you are looking for a way to save on your gin bar, an easy option is growing your own garnish well in advance. Thyme, rosemary, citrus and cucumber, among others, not only make for the perfect garnish options but are also easy to grow with enough foresight.

Match your garnish to your taste, cocktail preference and availability.

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Gin bar goals . . . . . . #weddinggin #weddingginbar #celebrantcambridge #bedfordcelebrant #suffolkcelebrant #weddinggoals #weddingplanning #ginbar? #weddingreception #weddingparty

A post shared by Elizabeth Fay (@elizabethfaygenealogist) on Oct 1, 2019 at 10:46pm PDT

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Is it gin o’clock yet? #bluecoatgin #gincocktails #ginbar #getintouch #weddingginbar ✨✨

A post shared by Bluecoat Weddings (@bluecoatweddings) on Jan 10, 2019 at 7:15am PST

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It’s SPRING TIME and it takes me back to our amazing wedding Gin Bar ??? #springcolours #flowerseverywhere #bestweekendever #wedding #weddingginbar #holidayfeeling photos: @tyralillie

A post shared by Emily Rice (@emilyclarerice) on Mar 23, 2018 at 2:38am PDT

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Love a Gin Bar at a wedding ?? styled by @hallandcoeventdesign for Sian & James’s wedding at @granaryestates on Thursday. #weddingseason #weddingginbar #ginbar

A post shared by Parris (@miss_parriswhite) on May 12, 2018 at 4:23am PDT

Don’t forget the extras

From ice, to bar tools, bartenders and a fridge to keep things cool; the things you don’t think about first can come back to bite you.

In the end a good gin bar is all about ginspiration, a love for gin and planning. If you put enough time into ensure every box is ticked and all your extra necessities are covered your bar will be a hit and you can have your gin and drink it too.

Picture: Instagram