Wedding ETC, Author at Wedding ETC

In Advice

Coping with your wedding date change

April 14, 2020 No Comments

In the midst of these uncertain times we’re living in, couples are forced to make tough decisions around their weddings or look at alternative options. If you happen to find yourself in this very predicament, wedding and event planners Stark Events are sharing some tips to help you cope with the challenges including changing your wedding date.

Allow Yourself To Go Through The Motions

Yes, sure we’re going through far bigger problems on a global scale, but it’s really okay to feel angered, sad, frustrated and just plain disappointed. You’ve set your heart on it and you’ve been planning this day since your engagement (possibly before), so you’re allowed to have these emotions triggered. But remember, while it’s okay to feel angered and overwhelmed, these emotions should not be allowed to consume you. Give yourself time to grieve, but bounce back from it and plan for the future.

Chat To Your Wedding Vendors

Communicate your decision of changing your wedding date to your service providers. Don’t panic about needing to open the conversation as this is a global pandemic and everyone is in the same boat. Be open and feel free to ask as many questions as possible – your wedding planner, venue and other service providers will gladly assist in making this transition as easy as possible.

Don’t forget to check with all your vendors what their policy is in terms of refunds and postponements.

Communicate To Your Guests

Sit down with your fiancé and work out a plan of action as to how you’ll go about communicating your date change to your guests. Due to your wedding date changing, you will most likely have some guests who can no longer attend due to prior commitments. While this isn’t ideal, be gracious and try making alternative plans with these guests post wedding. Who could possibly say no to an intimate post wedding celebration?

Keep An Open Mind

Be as flexible and accommodating as possible. We know that you’ve set your heart on certain aspects regarding your wedding day, but unfortunately, it is now out of your control. Take a moment to process it all and tackle the rest of your wedding planning head on, but with a clear and open mind.

Celebrate Your Original Date

You’ve chosen your wedding date for a reason and we encourage all couples to go ahead and celebrate it. Despite not being able to host your actual wedding on this particular date, plan something special with your partner. An intimate, candlelit dinner paired with soft music and champagne on ice sounds idyllic to us!

Feature image: Unsplash

In Engagements

Man plans surprise proposal and livestream

April 9, 2020 No Comments

Quarantine engagements are becoming more and more popular, and even celebrities are participating. Of course, an intimate at-home proposal is lovely, but if you wanted to have your family involved you may be a bit disappointed.

PJ Bruno couldn’t let it go, he was determined to include family and friends in this surprise proposal to girlfriend, Jaz Zepatos. After being together for three years, Bruno wanted an elaborate proposal, but with the coronavirus pandemic controlling things, he had to come up with a new idea.

He decided to invite his friends and family to watch the proposal live, on March 27. Google Hangouts was his streaming service of choice. Bruno’s mother recorder the proposal in person, while one of his friend’s watching the live stream screen recorded it.

“In the midst of global chaos, Bruno managed to find a way to gather our closest friends and family to create one of the most magical moments of my life,” Zapatos wrote on an Instagram post. “Thank you to everyone who took part in our special day from the safety of your homes. We love you so much.”

This story is not unlike many others at this time. With the coronavirus pandemic sweeping the globe, many are being creative and finding a way to share their joy with their loved ones who are not physically close to them. While it’s a common story in these times, it remains wholesome and heartwarming, just what we all need.

On her Instagram post you can see the full proposal, and the moment she realises they are being live streamed.

Watch it here:

https://www.instagram.com/p/B-SDGo-D08Q/

https://www.instagram.com/p/B-SGSMuFdcA/

Congrats to the happy couple!

Image: Screenshot

In News

Drive-thru weddings emerge as solution to postponement

April 9, 2020 No Comments

Some couples will certainly not allow the coronavirus pandemic to stand in their way. From Animal Crossing weddings, to cardboard guests and even risking arrest, people whose weddings have been ruined by the outbreak are stopping at nothing.

In Melbourne, Australia, a different solution is rising in popularity. Nine News Australia reported that “Drive thru weddings are giving couples a chance to tie the knot amid the crisis.” Since there are several restrictions placed on weddings due to the coronavirus, this has emerged as a way around.

Couples are able to get married for around 400 Australian Dollars (R4 489) with a company called ‘I Do Drive Thru’.

The company offers legal weddings in a drive-thru format. They follow all restriction rules and offer a refund if the wedding is not carried out. According to I Do Drive Thru, couples can arrive by foot, bike, or car. Additionally, if the couple would prefer to choose a special location, the company will meet them there and they are still allowed to remain in the car.

Of course, many would wonder why this is necessary. Why not just wait until the health crisis is over? I Do Drive Thru took to Instagram to explain.

“There are many reasons why couples want to marry during this time, it’s not only for love, it’s also to be able to advocate for each other for medical reasons, comply with visa requirements and also to avoid any conflict around wills and estates. Marriage is an essential service and we have created the I Do Drive Thru in order to protect our couples and ourselves during this time of COVID,” they said.

It definitely is a creative way around a problem that has many people stumped.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B-th2cbhn3O/

https://www.instagram.com/p/B-sPgWgBV4-/

Image: Youtube / Nine News Australia (Screenshot)

In Advice

Virtual date night ideas for romance under lockdown

April 8, 2020 No Comments

Trying to keep the romance alive while being separated from your love doesn’t have to be a stressful ordeal! There are many virtual options for a great date night.

You’re not alone as many couples around the world are figuring out how to navigate the world of love, while being stuck at home. To make things a little easier, here are some virtual date night ideas to try out:

– Take a virtual tour

Since self-isolation and legally enforced quarantines are global, many facilities have decided to help ease cabin fever by making virtual tours available. Why not take advantage of this while you still can? You can see things from all around the world, with your partner (virtually) by your side, without leaving the comfort and safety of your room!

Here are some to check out:

L.A.’s Getty Museum
The Louvre
The Smithsonian’s Natural History
The National Women’s History Museum’s NASA exhibit
The San Diego Zoo live cam
Tennesee Aquarium’s River Otter Falls Cam
International Wolf Centre’s ambassador wolves

– Dig Deep

If you’re looking to become closer during your time (physically) apart, answer The 36 Questions That Lead to Love. This little back and forth quiz was published in 2015 and is considered one of the best conversational road maps around. Find out more about each other, by asking questions you never thought about before.

– Distanced Dinner Date

Just because you’re in separate locations, doesn’t mean a dinner date is off the table. You can each get dressed up, grab some food, light some candles and eat together on a Skype call. Play some music in the background for that extra bit of mood-setting.

– Online games

The internet is filled multiplayer games for you and your partner to try out. Explore a new universe together, by playing online together. Some couples have even taken to gaming weddings.

– Watch a movie in sync

Use the chrome extension Netflix Party, to watch a movie together. The extension allows you to connect your Netflix accounts so that your movie plays at exactly the same time. There’s also a chat bar for running commentary between the two of you during the movie.

– Plan your next in person date

If you haven’t already, you can spend some time together deciding on what you’ll do as soon as the lockdown is over. Plan a big, special date to celebrate being by each others sides again.

Also read: Pair have Animal Crossing wedding amid corona virus

Also read: How to have a honeymoon during lockdown

Also read: How to celebrate your anniversary while quarantining

Image: Unsplash

In Planning

Beach wedding venues in South Africa

April 8, 2020 No Comments

Just because weddings have been put on pause due to the coronavirus pandemic, doesn’t mean you have to stop planning for the future. Keeping your eye out for the wedding venue of your dreams is important!

If you’re considering a seaside wedding, then you’re lucky that you live in South Africa. Our country is overflowing with magnificent beach wedding venues.

Here are some of out favourites:

Tintswalo Atlantic

Within the Greater Table Mountain National Park, at the base of Chapman’s Peak, you’ll find Tintswalo Atlantic. You’ll have unmatchable views of the bay and the mountains on your special day. The lodge includes their luxurious suites in their wedding package too. This venue is best for an intimate wedding, as it seats about 25 guests.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B4wga_Bjfc_/

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

The Oyster Box Hotel

This Umhlanga wedding venue is truly like no other, offering you a a stunning backdrop which includes a lighthouse for your nuptials. The hotel overlooking the ocean offers a variety of venues to accomodate almost any size wedding.

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

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Birkenhead House

On the cliffs of Hermanus overlooking Walker Bay, lies Birkenhead House. The coastal setting is perfect for a beach wedding. The venue caters for weddings of up to 50 guests.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B37Ou7-BxCh/

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Strandkombuis

For a more laidback beach wedding, head to Strandbombuis in Yzerfontein. You’ll have your reception on the deck only a few steps from the untouched beach. With a capacity of up to 200 guests, you can fit everyone in.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B6yhPy_hBEf/

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Twelve Apostles Hotel

If a luxury seaside wedding is what you’re looking for, then the Twelve Apostles Hotel is where you need to be. Situated between the Twelve Apostles Mountain range, the setting is perfect for anyone looking for a dramatic backdrop. This hotel is suitable for a wide range of wedding options.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B4t2sLZJ0hF/

https://www.instagram.com/p/B6IWlacJMMz/

Blue Bay Lodge

Undisturbed beaches, quiet surroundings and Saldanha Bay in the background. What could be more perfect? Blue Bay Lodge offers wedding co-ordination, seating for 150 guests, and a wooden deck at the end of a walkway on the beach where your ceremony can be performed.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BvY1ocjhDF-/

https://www.instagram.com/p/B3uinz4pONP/

Image: Unsplash

In Celebs

Jeannie Mai announces engagement to Jeezy

April 8, 2020 No Comments

Love conquers all, even a world wide pandemic, self-isolation, and quarantines. “The Real” presenter Jeannie Mai and rapper Jeezy (Jay Jenkins) are proving it with their engagement in the time of the coronavirus.

Mai took to instagram on April 7 to officially announce their engagement and share her good news. “I want nothing more than to spend the rest of my life loving you….YES,” she said in her caption.

“Thank you, everyone, for celebrating this journey with us. We are praying love over everyone from here,” she added.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B-qBAc1hFvm/

The couple have been together since November 2018, but only made their relationship public last year.

People reported that Jenkins proposed at their “quarantine date night” in his Los Angeles home. Mai’s rep told People that Jenkins planned to propose on their trip to Vietnam in April this year. However, due to travel restrictions and self-isolation orders on account of the coronavirus, Jenkins had to come up with a new plan.

“Instead, Jay decided to bring Vietman to Jeannie with a surprise quarantine date night in his home filled with Vietnamese food and decor,” said Mai’s rep.

Of course, people are tremendously happy for them and congratulations flooded in on her Instagram post. Co-hosts at The Real were also ecstatic for Mai. The Real congratuated Mai on their Instagram page too, posting a picture of the happy couple.

“OUR HEARTS, HUNNAY!!!” they said. “Screaming all the contratulatory wishes from the rooftops for our very own @TheJeannieMai and her new FIANCE. @Jeezy!!!! We are so thrilled and over the moon for the both of you.”

https://www.instagram.com/p/B-qfIOxpTpl/?utm_source=ig_embed

Congrats to the happy couple!

Image: Twitter / Complex

In Advice

How to celebrate your anniversary while quarantining

April 7, 2020 No Comments

The national lockdown has truly forced us all to readjust to a new way of life for the time being. All plans that were made previously are on hold or cancelled and other plans are having to be rethought. While all of this happens, time still ticks on.

If your anniversary is one of the events coming up during quarantine, you should probably think of a way to celebrate it indoors! There’s no need to worry if you made plans that require leaving home, an at-home anniversary can easily be planned too.

Here are some ideas:

Recreate a special meal together

Perhaps you had a fancy meal on your first date, or you’re still dreaming of the delicious meal served at your wedding reception. You could take to the kitchen and try to recreate these meals together. We all know cooking together can be tremendously romantic… and the eating part is great too. After you cook the meal, indulge in the delicious food by candle light.

Wedding reminiscing

Pull out your wedding album and video and spend some time remembering the special day. It’ll bring back many amazing memories and will show you how far you’ve come. Tell each other stories about your individual experiences of the wedding day, about how you were feeling, who you interacted with, and anything else you can recall. You’re sure to have some funny and interesting tales to tell.

Symbolic vow renewal

Plan to have a vow renewal ceremony for just the two of you. Write new vows, decorate the room, and go all out. It’ll be quite intimate and special, definitely something you’ll never forget.

Learn to dance

Search YouTube for some couples dance tutorials and try to learn a new dance together. Salsa is a great option!

How I met your mother

If you have kids and you want them to be involved too then this one’s for you. Draw up a quiz about your relationship with questions like “how did mom and dad meet?” or “how old were we when we got married?” and have your kids participate in a competitive quiz night. It’s a great way to celebrate your anniversary and it’ll be an evening filled with laughs too.

Image: Unsplash

In News

Pair have Animal Crossing wedding amid coronavirus

April 6, 2020 No Comments

Many couples are facing the disappointment of having to cancel or postpone their weddings due to the coronavirus pandemic. While some are planning to simply wait until the health crisis blows over, others are finding creative ways around the problem.

With the forced cancellation of their wedding, Sharmin Asha and Nazmul Ahmed had to get past the disappointment. They decided they would start playing the popular Nintendo game, Animal Crossing: New Horizons. While they played, Ahmed had an idea.

He put together a surprise in-game wedding for his wife-to-be. “Nazmul invited me over to collect resources [on his island] since he had been playing longer than me. As soon as I got there, he was at the airport and there were arrows on the ground. He told me there was some special in-game event, so we followed them,” said Asha to The Washington Post.

As they followed the arrows, Asha collected virtual flowers that Ahmed left for her. At the end of the path she found a beach, where her friends waited with their own Animal Crossing characters.

Ahmed told The Washington Post that the entire thing took him four to five hours to set up. He said that their friends were happy to get on board with his plan, since they already played the game.

Of course, this is not a replacement for the New Jersey couple’s wedding but it has served as a great way to celebrate what would have been their wedding date.

Ahmed and Asha are not the only ones to have celebrated their nuptials this way. A host of other couples have made their way to Animal Crossing too as it serves as a proxy for real-world social interaction.

Image: Twitter / GoNintendoTweet

In Advice

How hand sanitizer affects your engagement ring

April 3, 2020 No Comments

With the spread of the coronavirus in South Africa and across the world, people are much more conscious about hygiene. Specifically hand hygiene. All we’ve heard from our leaders is for weeks is “wash your hands, don’t touch your face”. This has led to an increase in the use of hand sanitizer.

The hand sanitizer you should be using consists of about 70% alcohol (isopropyl or ethyl) mixed with water, glycerine and fragrance.

You’d think that no harm can come from using proper hand sanitizer. After all, you’re trying to protect yourself from a pandemic. While you’re taking care of yourself, however, be sure to take care of your engagement ring too!

It turns out that hand sanitizer is quite bad for your ring, especially when it’s used excessively (much like we’re all doing these days). According to James Allen, an online diamond and bridal jewellery retailer, contact with cleaners that contain chlorine, bleach, and rubbing alcohol “can break down the brilliance of metals and gems over time”. The last thing you want is for your ring to lose it’s sparkle!

Experts at James Allen also warned of a different way the sanitizer could be ruining your ring. “Extensive hand sanitizer use can also loosen prongs that hold diamonds in place,” they said. This means you’re putting your diamond at risk. It could loosen and fall out without you noticing.

Of course, we don’t want these risks to stop you from practicing good hygiene. Quite the opposite, actually.

All you need to do is remove the ring from your finger each time you sanitize and you should be good to go! Remember to wait until your hand dry’s before placing the ring back on your finger.

If you really want to protect your ring, you could choose to remove it until the coronavirus pandemic passes. Bacteria can make its way into the grooves of your ring. If you don’t plan on cleaning the ring, it may be better to store it away until this all blows over.

It’s not that difficult to clean your ring though! So, if you want to keep wearing it, simply pop it in some warm water with dish washing soap at least once a week! Voila, good hygiene and a ring that remains safe and sound.

Image: Unsplash

In Advice

Romantic home proposal ideas

April 2, 2020 No Comments

So lockdown ruined your big proposal plans but you can’t keep the secret inside any longer? It looks like an at-home proposal is your only choice! There’s no need to worry though, there are more than a few ways to make it special.

If you’re in search for some at home proposal ideas, we’ve got you covered. Here’s how to get your love locked in during lockdown:

– The games night proposal

If you’re a playful pair, plan your proposal around a games night. You could do it under the guise of keeping busy on another night under quarantine. Set out a scrabble board, and throughout the game try to spell out words that eventually lead up to “will you marry me?”. “say yes?” or “wife/husband?”.

Alternatively, you could play charades, pictionary, or any such guessing game, and take your proposal from there! Act out or draw marriage, and then get down on one knee.

– The classic dinner proposal

Cook your soon-to-be a romantic dinner, decorate the table with candles, and do it just like they do in the movies. After some casual dinner-time conversation or perhaps during dessert, pop the question.

– The pet proposal

We know those of you with fur babies don’t want to leave the little ones out of anything! Plan to have your pet involved, by placing the ring on their body (without hurting them of course). Have your pet approach your partner for them to find the ring.

– The treasure hunt proposal

Hide the ring, write down some clues, and make a fun activity out of your proposal. Tell your partner you’ve got them a gift but they need to go on a treasure hunt for it. Voila, a fun and flirty at home proposal.

– The pamper proposal

Treat your significant other to a spa day, full with DIY face masks and a massage, perhaps even a bubble bath. After they’ve relaxed to the max, and you’ve built up the nerve then get down to business.

Good luck with your proposals!

Image: Unsplash