Wedding ETC, Author at Wedding ETC

In News

Cape wedding venue takes SAHRC to court

May 19, 2020 No Comments

Beloftebos, a wedding venue in the Western Cape who made headlines in January for refusing to host a same-sex wedding ceremony on religious grounds, are now claiming that they are being discriminated against by the SA Human Rights Commission (SAHRC).

On Monday [May 18], the owners of the establishment claimed that they had filed papers with the Equality Court, opposing the fact that they have discriminated against LGBTI+ people, reports Times Live. This means they are arguing that their policy which states that they will not host same-sex weddings is not discriminatory.

Michael Swain, executive director of Freedom of Religion South Africa said that Beloftebos are “asking the Equality Court to find that the SAHRC unfairly discriminated against them on grounds of conscience, religion and belief, and that the commission is biased and prejudiced in its treatment of them and their belief system”.

The commission launched an application against the owners in March, following several complaints about the venue. The Comissioner, André Gaum, explained that the outcome they hope to achieve includes that the venue’s policy be declared discriminatory, and that they are forced to host same-sex marriages. He said that the policy is unconstitutional and amounts to unfair discrimination.

According to Times Live, the owners claim that the ruling will have far-reaching consequences for them. “If the court decides against them, the owners of Beloftebos will be forced to participate in and celebrate events that violate their conscience, religion and belief — or alternatively be forced to close their venue and cease to offer their services,” said Swain.

Picture: Unsplash

In Weddings

The humble history of wedding photography

May 15, 2020 No Comments

These days, wedding photography is a tremendously creative business to be in. Couples want extravagant photoshoots, photographs edited to a T, and perfectly put together albums. Wedding photography has come a long way from its humble beginnings.

The story of wedding photography begins in the early 1840s, when photography had little to no commercial use. Of course, people did have the idea of saving their memories though.

During this time paper photographs, multiple photographs and wedding albums were non-existant. According to iQ photo, a wedding photography studio based in San Francisco, the only option available was a “daguerreotype portrait on a tiny copper sheet”. (A daguerreotype is a small metal sheet.)

Due to the size and weight of photography equipment at the time, couples were also restricted to a studio. There were no photoshoots in the forest or in the streets of a bustling city, you only had the one option. On top of that, many didn’t even have the option. Wedding photography was a practice of the wealthy.

In fact, Queen Victoria and Prince Albert were one of the first couples to smile for the camera in 1854, 14 years after their actual wedding. This was one of the influences for couples to pose for wedding pictures, however they would not be captured in their wedding attire.

It wasn’t until the 1880s, when some advances (including roll film by Kodak) were made in the industry and photography become more accessible, that couples actually took photos on their wedding day. Still, photos on the day were limited since film was expensive. Couples managed to take a few snap shots with their nearest and dearest, as well as some images from throughout the day. It was at this point in time that the wedding album came to be.

In the early to mid 1900s, colour film was introduced. Thereafter, the colour film, in combination with the creation of portable cameras with flashes and a wedding boom which was a result of World War II, sparked the true beginning of the wedding industry.

For a while after this, it was the styles of wedding photography which grew and changed rather than the technology. It went from a traditional real-life or still-life style, to a more photojournalism style in which photographers aimed for a fly-on-the-wall vibe.

Once digital photography came to be, the industry changed drastically. Uninhibited by film (or lack thereof) photographers could go wild with their ideas. According to Dreamtime Images, digital cameras could allow deeper coverage of the event, which adds to the freedom of creativity in the field.

Now, people have out-of-this-world ideas for wedding photoshoots, with intricate details and in a combination of photography styles. In fact, one may call it art more than anything else. From candids and portraits to family shots and creative shots, you can get anything your heart desires.

Also read: Stunning underwater wedding photography makes waves

Also read: Pair pose for cheeky postponed wedding shoot

Picture: Pixabay

In Weddings

Traditional wedding dances around the world

May 15, 2020 No Comments

Dancing brings people together. Whether you’re a professional or you have two left feet, it’s always fun. At weddings, especially the westernized ones, everyone awaits the newlyweds’ first dance and as it happens they watch in awe.

In other countries around the world, however, there are other dances that are equally – if not more – important. Wedding dance traditions are more diverse and varying than you could ever imagine.

Here are 5 wedding dance traditions from around the world:

Halay

One of the most common folk dances for Turkish weddings, halay is a dance done to a song which is a cycle of the same melody which starts off slow and increases in speed. People hold hands or are intertwined in some way, and dance (commonly in a line).

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The Tsamiko, The Zeibekiko, and the Sirtaki

Traditional Greek wedding dances centre around guests holding hands and dancing in a circle.

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A Sword Dance

Scottish weddings come with a few traditions around dance. At the reception the first dance is the bride and groom dancing a traditional reel. Thereafter, the bride dances with a guest who has “the highest rank among the guests”.

The very last dance is the Sword Dance. As it is performed guests form a circle and sing ‘Auld Lang Syne’, a traditional song.

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Ceilidh dance

This is the traditional dance at Irish weddings. It is to be performed with a ceilidh band.

Some ceilidh dances are named after locations, for example “Seige of Ennis”. Many newly-weds opt for songs which pay homage to the heritage of their family or to their ancestors.

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The “Horah”

This is a Middle Eastern/Israeli style of dance usually played as a second dance set.

Dancing is a big part of Jewish weddings. Often, it is the tradition that guests at the wedding entertain the newly wedded couple through dance, rather than the couple being centre stage.

The “Horah” is only one Jewish wedding dance traditions. Others include The Krenzl, The Mizinke, and The Mitzvah tantz.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bj4axK1gM9D/

Image: Pixabay

In Advice

The pros and cons of wearing your mother’s wedding dress

May 14, 2020 No Comments

Most, if not all, mothers dream of the day their daughters will walk down the aisle. Often, they also imagine that their little girls will be happy to wear their wedding dresses from decades passed.

While this is an easy ‘yes’ for some brides-to-be, others may be a bit on the fence. Don’t feel bad about it! There is nothing wrong with wanting to be completely original on your special day.

A practice of tradition for some and sentiment for others, wearing your mothers wedding dress can have a lot of meaning behind it. However, you may (like many others) be willing to give up this custom in favour of individuality and self-expression.

To help you weigh up your options, here are some pros and cons of wearing your mother’s wedding dress:

Pros:

– Your mom will be over the moon

This is a beautiful way to honour your mother, and it will definitely make her happier than words can explain. A mother loves to see herself in her daughter.

– Money and time saved

Finding a wedding dress takes a lot of time. It includes several trips to various bridal stores and many fittings too. All of this will vanish if you use your mother’s wedding dress.

You know what else will disappear? The hole in your pocket in the shape of a gown. The money directed towards your dress will dramatically decrease.

– Possibility of alterations

You could alter the dress to keep the pieces of your moms dress that you love, and include parts of a dress that you’d love personally. You could get the best of both worlds.

Cons:

– Less exciting

While shopping may be a big task, it is very exciting. Your girls and your mom, all the special ladies in your life, accompany you to find the dress of your dreams. You may miss out on that experience.

– May make you feel overly cautious

Of course all brides are careful when it comes to their wedding dresses. However, when it’s an heirloom passed down to you, you may feel extra-stiff on your wedding day as you don’t want to spill anything on it or damage it in any way. This could make you a bit uncomfortable on your special day.

– Lack of individuality and orginality

You may feel a bit like it’s not your dress. This will be unpleasant and can put a damper on the day.

Image: Unsplash

In News

UK castle offers ‘bubble weddings’

May 14, 2020 No Comments

Langley Castle in Northumberland is hundreds of years old. By it’s age alone we know that it’s faced many a struggle. Presently, the castle serves as a hotel and wedding venue and thus is facing a new challenge: COVID-19 and social distancing weddings.

In response to the crisis, and their need to keep the wedding industry alive (for their own good too, of course), the castle’s management have come up with a creative solution. In fact, the solution is said to be a first in the UK.

Already known for many other “firsts” such as being the first wedding venue in the country to offer civil marriages and being the first in the UK to offer Game of Thrones style weddings, they are now the first to offer “Bubble Weddings” as a social distancing solution.

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The Bubble wedding gives you a “castle to yourself” experience. According to Chronicle Live the offering is customised to your liking and is created to be intimate, being only for couples and their absolute nearest and dearest. This allows for the wedding to follow social distancing rules.

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There are two packages and they both adhere to the guidelines set by the Government.

The first package is a Bubble with Bubbles day for 10 people. Included in this package is a marriage at the castle, canapes, drinks, buffets and use of all nine bedrooms, costing £4,500.

The second package, called ‘Key to the Castle, is for 18 people. The guests are allowed to lockdown and run the castle. This will cost £6,500.

There is also an option for the couple to come alone and get married there.

In times like these, creative and out-of -the-box solutions are exactly what we need! Hopefully, others in the wedding industry will follow suit and introduce new ways around the COVID-19 challenge.

Image: Facebook / Langley Castle Weddings

In News

Marriage laws in SA may soon change

May 13, 2020 No Comments

A new policy is in the works at the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) that will bring changes to marriage laws in South Africa.

The DHA, during a presentation to parliament, argued that the existing policies which deal with marriages are not rooted in consitutional values such as nondiscrimination and equality.

According to Business Tech, the DHA said that while there have been many changes since 1994, there are still many flaws in the existing legislation. “For instance, the current legislation does not regulate some religious marriages such as the Hindu, Muslim and other customary marriages that are practised in some African or royal families,” they said.

They acknowlegded that due to the diversity in this country, it would be very difficult to draw up laws which regulate every existing cultural marriage. However, they have begun a process of creating a marriage policy which they hope will “lay a policy foundation for drafting a new single or omnibus legislation.”

Business Tech reported some of the key changes which will be instituted by the policy:

The new Marriage Act will enable South Africans of different sexual orientation, religious and cultural persuasions to conclude legal marriages;

The introduction of strict rules around the age of marriage (including the alignment of age of majority in the marriage legislation to the Children’s Act);

It will align the marriage, matrimonial property and divorce legislation to address matrimonial property and intestate succession matters in the event of the marriage dissolution;

It will allow for equitable treatment and respect for religious and customary beliefs in line with Section 15 of the Constitution.

It will deal with the solemnisation and registration of marriages that involve foreign nationals;

It will deal with the solemnisation and registration of customary marriages that involve non-citizens especially cross-border communities or citizens of our neighbouring countries.

The DHA said that the new policy is to be gazetted in the 2020/21 financial year, for the purpose of consultation from the public. Thereafter, it will be submitted to cabinet by the end of March 2021, in order to be approved.

Image: Unsplash

In Advice

How to make your livestream wedding special

May 11, 2020 No Comments

Many couples are no longer willing to wait for the nationwide lockdown to come to a close to have their wedding. Most are now opting for a livestream wedding, which allows their guests to attend their nuptials while safely social distancing.

If you’re one of those who are in love and eager to get your married life started, then perhaps you’re leaning towards a Zoom ceremony. But since this is one of the most common wedding trends these days, you’ll likely want to do something to ensure that yours stands out from the rest.

Here are some ways to make your livestream wedding special:

Invite everyone

Since you no longer have to be held back by the finances that comes with inviting people, you’re now able to invite absolutely everyone. The more the merrier! You’ll feel extra special once you see how many people turn out for your special day.

Have everyone dress for the occassion

This includes you. Everyone should be in their very best attire (no sweats allowed!). After all, it’s one of the most important days of your life. If everyone gets dressed up, it’ll truly feel like a celebration.

Don’t skip the toasts

Your best man, maid of honour, and whoever else was going to give a toast should all still do so. Many people have slacked on the formalities on Zoom weddings, so to take it up a notch from the rest keep as much from the original plan as possible.

Decorate

Create a pretty backdrop for your wedding. Light some candles, play some music, add some fairy lights, do as much as you can!

Consider all platforms

Some couples who have used Zoom found that the free version only allows for 40 minutes before it times out. If you don’t want a forced intermission, consider paying for the full version or using a different platform.

Also read: The legality of Zoom weddings in SA

Image: Twitter / Tyler Thompson

In Engagements

The ringless proposal: what would you do?

May 11, 2020 No Comments

Emily Ratajkowski turned down her now-husband’s first proposal because he popped the question without a ring to offer. It is quite commonly accepted that, where there is a proposal there is a ring. However, people have argued that a ringless proposal works too; it may even be better.

The argument below is one of the strongest for a ringless proposal. In response to a story about a woman complaining that she didn’t like her ring, she argued that the proposer surely would want the proposee to like the ring. It may be better to propose first, and then pick the ring together.

Normally when you buy something for someone else you actually want them to like it. He took no time to find out what she would like. If rather have a ringless proposal get get the ring I want later.

— Nats (@nats_thandie) August 28, 2019

Of course, the ring is nothing but a symbol. However, people are quite attached and unwilling to let go of this symbol.

On an AskWomen Reddit thread, a user called osmeusamigos, said ” A ring is a symbol. Some people find that symbol very important. Some people don’t need the symbol to have what the symbol represents. Personally, I want a ring, but that’s just me. Whoever is proposing should hopefully know me well enough by that point to get one.”

Another user, whose account has since been deleted, said “I’d really like to be one of those cool women that doesn’t care,” adding “I’d be kind of hurt if I didn’t have an engagement ring (size doesn’t matter, it’s the symbolism that counts). I’m Southern and was raised somewhat traditionally, and some of that cultural ‘training’ just doesn’t wash out easily.”

Culture and tradition seem to be a very important part of what keeps the engagement and wedding ring alive.

Just like many other wedding traditions, the engagement ring may start fading out. Especially since there are various ethical arguments against the traditional diamond ring.

There is no correct answer when it comes to this decision, it the end its up to personal preference. So what is yours, present ring or ringless?

Image: Unsplash

In Celebs

Cast of The Office come together for Zoom wedding

May 11, 2020 No Comments

Zoom weddings and celebrations have been bringing people from all over the globe together. The trend has even managed to reunite the cast of popular TV show, The Office.

Actor John Krasinski, who played Jim on The Office, has a YouTube channel called Some Good News. The purpose of his channel to to spread positive stories from across the globe in order to show that even during the toughest of times there are still good things happening and people are showing how we all come together.

On this weeks episode of Some Good News, Krasinski showed off a newly engaged couple – Susan and John, from Maryland. John had proposed to Susan the same way Jim proposed to Pam in the TV show (outside a petrol station).

Of course, this warranted Krasinski to get the cast together for a celebration of this special engagement. Additionally, the couple had hoped that Krasinski would attend their wedding, since he inspired their proposal. This was Krasinski’s way of attending the wedding.

Taking it a step further, he enlisted the help of Jenna Fischer (who played Pam on the show) to be the maid of honour.

Members of the cast including Jenna Fischer, Steve Carell, Rainn Wilson, Ed Helms, Mindy Kaling, B.J. Novak, Angela Kinsey, Brian Baumgartner, Phyllis Smith, Kate Flannery, Creed Bratton, Oscar Nunez and Ellie Kemper also came together to dance to Forever by Chris Brown. For fans of The Office, you’ll know that they did this at Jim and Pams wedding in the show!

See the entire celebration below:

Congrats to this lucky couple!

Image: Screenshot from video

In Advice

Tips for writing a wedding toast

May 8, 2020 No Comments

Since you’ve been given the honour of speaking at a loved ones wedding, you probably don’t want to dissapoint them. However, as much as a wedding toast is privilage it can also be a daunting challenge.

“There are so many things that could go wrong,” is likely along the lines of what you’re thinking. It seems that wedding toasts commonly take one of two paths. On the one hand they are either extremely memorable and everyone is in tears (of laughter or emotion), or on the other they are disastrous, inappropriate and downright cringe-worthy.

Of course, you’ll be trying your hardest to be the former, rather than the latter. To ensure you’re giving the best toast possible, here are some tips:

– Open with how you know the newly weds

It will give context to your speech for those who are not aware of who you are, and is generally considered to be more a police gesture.

– Address both partners

Just because only one of them have been through thick and thin with you, doesn’t mean you get to completely ignore the other! They are sharing this special day and you have been asked to share it with them. It would be rude to make it about only one of them.

– Be sure to add personal touches

Weddings are very personal occasions. The couple and the audience will love hearing your anecdotes and emotions and they will repond better than if you used a generic speech that could have been taken staight of of the internet.

– Things you shouldn’t include

There are some serious no-go’s when it comes to wedding toasts. These are: crude language, inappropriate or explicit stories, and anything about the exes of those getting married. No matter what. Do not include these in your speech.

– Be aware of time

We all know that nobody really wants to listen to a long, dragged out speech at a wedding. People will get bored. Be sure to stick to a reaonable time frame, maybe 3 to 6 minutes long. Don’t make it too short either though, it will seem as though you were uninterested and didn’t take the job seriously!

– No inside jokes

Most of the audience wouldn’t understand the joke, and the reaction will not be what you want it to be… I can assure you. Don’t add it, it’s not worth it.

Image: Unsplash