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    For years, Venus Williams has been fiercely private, letting her legendary tennis career speak louder than her personal life. But last week, the five-time Wimbledon champion treated fans to a rare and intimate glimpse into her engagement with Andrea Preti, sharing a carousel of enchanting photos on Instagram captioned simply: “Engaged 1/31/25.”

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Venus Williams (@venuswilliams)

    The post marks a heartwarming contrast to the fierce, competitive energy fans are used to seeing on the court.

    A Vogue-Worthy Celebration of Love

    Set in a lush, romantic garden, the engagement portraits feel straight out of a magazine spread. Williams stuns in a crisp white Prada halter dress, exuding effortless sophistication, while Preti, her Italian-Danish actor and former model fiancé, complements her elegance perfectly.

    One photo, in particular, warms hearts: the couple smiling alongside Harry, Williams’s beloved dog who turned 18 this year. Including Harry in the shoot adds a personal, familial touch, signaling that this chapter is not just about Venus and Andrea—it’s a celebration of their entire little unit.

    Andrea Preti: Partner and Cheerleader

    Preti, 37, is a multi-hyphenate talent in the entertainment industry, balancing acting, producing, and modeling. His artistic résumé spans indie films like One More Day and Italian TV dramas such as A Professor and Temptation. But beyond his career, he has been a steadfast supporter of Venus’s tennis journey. During her engagement announcement in July, she revealed that he had encouraged her to continue competing, saying, “My fiancé is here, and he really encouraged me to keep playing.”

    Their connection, though largely private, has been documented in glimpses around the world. The romance first emerged publicly in July 2024 during a boat trip in Italy. By February 2025, sightings of Venus wearing a diamond ring at a Milan fashion event fueled engagement speculation. The rumors were confirmed months later in July, putting any doubts to rest.

    A History of Love and Privacy

    Before finding love with Preti, Venus had a few high-profile relationships. She shared a long-term relationship with golfer Hank Kuehne from 2007 to 2010 and later dated Cuban model Elio Pis, who also modeled for her EleVen clothing line. Yet through it all, Venus has maintained her personal life with discretion, choosing to let her achievements and work define her public persona.

    Now, with these stunning engagement photos, fans get a rare peek behind the curtain. Venus Williams, known for her grace and competitiveness, shows that off the court, her life is filled with quiet joy, love, and family moments worth celebrating.

    While a wedding date remains unannounced, fans are clearly savoring this intimate reveal—proof that even legends deserve their happily ever after.

    ALSO SEE: Nadia Jaftha announces her engagement

    Nadia Jaftha announces her engagement

    Source: IOL

    Feature image: Instagram/Venus Williams

    Summer celebrations — from weddings to honeymoons — are all about sunshine, good company, and a glass in hand. And while it’s easy to just open a bottle and pour, a little know-how can make every sip feel more special.

    The right prep, the right pairing, and the right setup can elevate your reception drinks or honeymoon evenings instantly.

    Make the most of every bottle

    Start with your senses: look at the colour, swirl gently, and inhale to pick up the wine’s distinctive notes before taking a slow first sip. The small details matter:

    Use the right glasses:

      • Tulip-shaped glasses bring out aromas

      • Flutes keep bubbles lively

      • Stemless glasses are ideal for relaxed settings

    Get the temperature right:

        • Sparkling wine: 6–8°C

        • Whites: 8–12°C

        • Rosé: ±10°C

        • Light reds: 12–14°C

        • Fuller reds: 14–18°C

    Don’t underestimate presentation:
    Nicely chilled bottles, beautiful glassware, and a simple setup make home celebrations or honeymoon picnics feel extra special.

    And above all, pace yourselves; responsible sipping is non-negotiable.

    Quick pairing guide for wedding menus & honeymoon meals

    Crisp white wines
    Perfect with prawns, seafood salads, lemon-herb roast chicken, or fresh goat’s cheese.
    Serve at 8–10°C.

    Dry rosé
    Great with cold cuts, light salads, and tomato-based snacks.
    Serve at 8–10°C.

    White blends or Chenin-style wines
    Lovely with creamy salads, mild curries, and roast chicken.
    Serve at 10–12°C.

    Light reds
    Ideal with grilled meats, boerewors, and lamb chops — perfect for warm weather.
    Serve at 14–16°C.

    Sparkling wine / MCC
    Perfect for starters, seafood, desserts, and all your celebratory toasts.
    Serve at 6–8°C.

    All-rounder
    A chilled dry rosé works beautifully with a mix of courses.

    Quick ways to upgrade your wine experience

    • Whites → smaller bowl

    • Reds → larger bowl

    • Rosé → tapered bowl

    • Sparkling → wide tulip

    Temperature and glassware alone can completely change your wine experience — whether it’s your reception, a small gathering, or a sunset honeymoon sip.

    ALSO SEE: No Cake, No Bouquet Toss, No Rules, Couples Are Reinventing Weddings

    No Cake, No Bouquet Toss, No Rules, Couples Are Reinventing Weddings

    Info: Supplied by ByDesign.

    Feature image: Pexels

    You will most likely be stressing about numerous things before your wedding – your skin doesn’t have to be one of them. Here is what not to do to your skin before the big day.

    1. Spend too much time in the sun

    Don’t try to get the tan of your life right before your big day. You could get burnt and you and your skin will be dehydrated, and it will show. On that note, stay away from tanning beds as well; they can just as much – if not more – damage your skin.

    Take a look in the mirror and think about whether you actually need a tan. If you do, rather try a subtle self-tanning product for a few weeks leading up to the big day. Start toning it down a week before.

    And remember to wear sunscreen every single day, even on your wedding day, to ensure you stay sun safe.

    2. Pick at blemishes

    This doesn’t only apply to your pre-wedding preparations but it’s great advice for every time you are tempted to pick. Picking, squeezing or scratching a spot on your face will cause scarring. We know it’s incredibly hard not to pop that pimple as soon as it arises, but it’s important to leave it alone. The bacteria underneath your nails can penetrate this vulnerable area, causing swelling and redness.

    Instead, apply a spot treatment that contains benzoyl peroxide (not toothpaste!) to the area twice a day after cleansing, and try to leave it alone.

    If you are struggling with a painful, cystic spot right before the big day, visit your dermatologist and have a cortisone shot in the affected area. This will help considerably more than any topical treatment.

    3. Change your routine

    Every bride wants her skin to be perfect. Stick to what you know works for you and don’t try to switch up your routine a month before. Your skin WILL freak out.

    A few months before your wedding, introduce your skin to a brightening treatment (containing malic acid or vitamin C) paired with a moisturiser that contains hyaluronic acid. Cell turnover takes approximately 30 days, so any new treatment you use will only begin to show its effects after a month.

    Pro tip: Don’t use an acne treatment if you do not have problem skin as a preventative measure. It will only dry out your skin and you won’t glow as much when you say ‘I do.’

    4. Get a peel too soon before your wedding day 

    Getting a harsh chemical peel a few days before your wedding won’t be beneficial in the least. A peel of any kind requires some downtime, and your skin needs to chill out for a week or more.

    A peel literally removes a layer of skin, cleansing deep down into your pores, and revealing smooth and glowing skin. It helps in the disappearance of ance, scars, wrinkles and a rough texture, but it will not give you perfect skin overnight.

    Try a peel way in advance to see how it works for you, and then go for another (more gentle, if necessary) session at least two months before your wedding. They are one of the greatest things you can do for perfect wedding skin, but always be sure to chat to your therapist to make sure your timing and choice of treatment is spot on.

    5. Get too stressed out 

    Don’t forget to make time for yourself, meditate and breathe. All the stress of planning and making sure every detail is perfect will take a massive toll on your skin. Try listening to soothing music before bed, take a long bath, and breathe long and deep breaths to calm down your nervous system. And remember to hydrate!

    ALSO SEE: Keep your hair healthy on your summer honeymoon

    Keep your hair healthy on your summer honeymoon

    Feature image: Pexels

    Summer honeymoons are all about salt-sprayed skin, sun-drenched days, and endless swims, but they can also be the season your hair fears most. Between ocean dips, pool lounging, and hours under the sun, your strands face a triple threat. The result? Dryness, breakage, dull colour, and that unmistakable “summer stiffness.”

    The good news? With the right rituals, you can enjoy every romantic, sun-kissed moment without sacrificing your hair’s health. Here’s your ultimate honeymoon guide to keeping your hair protected from summer’s harshest elements.

    The sea: Salt water 101

    Salt water naturally dehydrates the hair, lifting the cuticle and leaving strands rough and brittle. Great for effortless beachy honeymoon waves — not so great for long-term hair health.

    How to protect your hair from the ocean

    Pre-hydrate before your swim
    Think of it like a primer. Wet your hair thoroughly with clean water before diving into the sea. Saturated hair absorbs less salt.

    Use a leave-in conditioner or hair oil
    A nourishing leave-in creates a protective barrier, sealing in moisture and guarding against dryness. Coconut oil, argan oil, or a silicone-free serum works beautifully for beach days.

    Post-swim rinse ASAP
    If a shower isn’t nearby, even a quick water-bottle rinse removes salt before it crystallises on your strands.

    Pool water: The chlorine culprit

    Chlorine is notorious for stripping hair of natural oils and binding to proteins in the strands. The result? Faded colour, a rough texture, and for blondes — the dreaded hint of green. Not ideal for honeymoon photos.

    How to protect your hair from chlorine

    Wet your hair before swimming (yes, again)
    Freshly-wet hair absorbs far less chlorine.

    Coat your hair with conditioner
    A lightweight, silicone-free conditioner forms a barrier that keeps chlorine from penetrating deeply.

    Wear a swim cap for long pool sessions
    Not the most glamorous accessory, but extremely effective — especially if your honeymoon includes lots of pool time or if your hair is bleached or processed.

    Use a clarifying shampoo once a week
    This removes chlorine buildup without stripping your hair daily.

    The sun: Your hair’s UV enemy

    Just like your skin, your hair suffers from sun exposure. UV rays weaken the protein structure, fade colour, and dry out the cuticle — especially on the hairline and top layers most exposed during sunny excursions.

    How to protect your hair from sun damage

    SPF for your hair is a thing — use it
    UV-protectant sprays shield your strands from protein breakdown and colour fade. Reapply like sunscreen when spending the whole day outdoors.

    Wear a hat or scarf
    Chic, romantic, and extremely effective. Bonus: it protects your scalp, too.

    Avoid the midday sun
    UV intensity peaks around midday, making hair more vulnerable to damage — the perfect excuse for a siesta or shaded lunch date.

    Deep-condition weekly
    Sunlight pulls moisture from your strands. A weekly mask restores softness and keeps hair flexible and healthy-looking.

    Your ultimate summer honeymoon hair routine

    For dreamy, healthy hair from check-in to checkout:

    Before swim: Wet hair, apply leave-in conditioner or oil, braid for protection.
    After swim: Rinse, apply moisturising spray, air-dry when possible.
    Daily protection: UV-protectant spray and hats during peak sun.
    Weekly care: Deep-conditioning mask, plus clarifying shampoo once a week if swimming often.

    A summer honeymoon doesn’t have to mean straw-like strands or faded colour. With a little preparation and a few mindful habits, your hair can stay glossy, soft, and healthy — letting you enjoy every golden hour, every dip in the sea, and every sunlit memory to the fullest.

    ALSO SEE: Beyond the Beach: Unusual Honeymoon Ideas for South African Couples in 2025

    Beyond the Beach: Unusual Honeymoon Ideas for South African Couples in 2025

    Written by Amy Steenkmap for Woman&Home.

    Feature image: Pexels

    In the past, premarital counselling was mainly carried out in religious institutions. These days, however, it has become more popular with non-religious couples too. Couples go to seek guidance and advice in the hopes of preventing divorce.

    According to the Mayo Clinic, “Premarital counseling is a type of therapy that helps couples prepare for marriage. Premarital counseling can help ensure that you and your partner have a strong, healthy relationship — giving you a better chance for a stable and satisfying marriage”. They add that the sessions will assist you in identifying weaknesses that could result in trouble for you as a couple further down the road.

    What to expect from premarital counselling: 

    The counselling is usually carried out by a licensed therapist. You’ll sit in the therapists office with your partner by your side discussing a variety of topics related to marriage. Some of these topics include: Money, quality time together, sex, roles in marriage, children, extended family, beliefs and values, and goals.

    Some therapists may have you fill out questionnaires separately. The questionnaire will have you answer questions about each other. Thereafter, the therapist will help you to work through the results together.

    Benefits of premarital counselling: 

    – Helps guide the conversation 

    Discussing heavy topics such as religion, sex, or kids, can result in both partners getting emotional and therefore losing focus of the topic at hand. A counsellor will help to guide the conversation. They also ensure you don’t get angry or misinterpret each other.

    – Teaches communication 

    An important thing to know is that different people respond in different ways to tones and speech patterns. You must be aware of how your partner needs to be spoken to, in order to feel understood, supported, and heard. Premarital counselling also teaches you how to communicate in a healthy and productive way.

    – Helps you prepare for your future together 

    You will be made aware of which expectations are realistic and which are not.  You will also get an idea of your timing and goals as a couple, for example when you both want to have kids, or when you want to move to a bigger house. Additionally, your anxieties and fears will be lessened as a result of how well counselling demystifies marriage. It also ensure’s that you avoid many potential conflicts in the future.

    – You’ll learn more about yourself and your partner 

    Often, counselling is an eye opening experience. You discover things about yourself you’ve never known because the mental health professional is guiding you towards these realisations. When you and your partner have these experiences together, it also becomes a sort of bonding experience.

    Tips for successful premarital counselling: 

    – Know that it will be tough 

    You’ll be dealing with very touchy subjects. Be sure to be as open as you can and don’t be scared to be vulnerable. Most importantly, don’t give up because it’s uncomfortable! Remember that in the end, this will only grow and strengthen your relationship.

    – Don’t say what you think they want to hear 

    Avoid saying things that downplay your emotions or opinions, don’t answer in a way that you think is correct (there are no right or wrong answers). You should also avoid saying things just because it makes you seem more compatible with your significant other. If you do that, there will be no real progress.

    – It’s not a competition 

    There is no winner or loser, and there should be no “I told you so” at the end of the session.

    Be open to listening and accepting that you are both capable of being better.

    ALSO SEE: The pocket guide for announcing your engagement on social media

    The pocket guide for announcing your engagement on social media

    Image: Pexels

    [formbuilder:31]

    COMPETITION RULES
    To enter, participants must fill out an online form:
    1. setting out their full name, phone number and email address; and
    2. a short essay (maximum of 500 words) explaining why they deserve to win a wedding of their dreams.
    There will be only one winner selected, and the competition will be hosted over several magazine titles, both digital and print, namely:
    1. Women&Home;
    2. Bona
    3. Rooi Rose; and
    4. Getaway.
    Each participant must have a copy of the magazine, any of the above-mentioned magazine titles, “in hand” to qualify.
    The competition starts on 1 October 2023, and ends on 15 December 2023. Entries received after the closing date will not be accepted nor considered.
    The winner will be selected by a panel of judges based on the creativity, originality, and sincerity of their essay. The judges’ decision is final, and no correspondence will be entered into.
    The winner will be notified by email and telephone call by January 2024. The winner must confirm, in writing, their acceptance of the prize within 14 days of notification or forfeit the prize.
    The prize consists of a wedding package to the worth of R464 657,00 00 (Four Hundred and Sixty-Four Thousand Six Hundred and Fifty Seven Rand and Nil Cents), including venue, catering, photography, flowers, cake, dress, rings, and honeymoon. The prize is subject to availability and may vary depending on the preferences and budget of the winner.
    The prize is non-transferable and non-exchangeable for cash or other goods and/or services.
    The winner is responsible for any taxes, fees, and/or expenses not included in the prize.
    Furthermore, the winner is responsible for obtaining any necessary travel documents, visas, insurance, or health requirements for themselves and their guests.
    The winner agrees to participate in any publicity and/or promotional activities related to the competition and to allow the sponsor(s) to use their name, image(s), and/or essay for marketing purposes without further compensation.
    The sponsor(s) reserves the right to modify, suspend and/or cancel the competition in the event fraud, technical failure(s), and/or any other circumstances beyond its control that affect the fairness or integrity of the competition.
    Habari Media or its brands (Getaway, Rooi Rose, Women & Home and Bona) accept no responsibility for Sponsors who do not for full their contractual obligations.
    By entering the competition, participants agree to abide by these terms and conditions, and to release the sponsor and its affiliates from any liability arising from or related to the competition or prize.
    Employees, and immediate family members of said employees, of Highbury Media T/A Habari Media (Pty) Ltd are not eligible to enter this competition.
    TERMS AND CONDITIONS
    This competition is open to South African residents only. Participants must be 18 (Eighteen) years or older at the time of entry.
    1. Boschendal

    • Our offering includes 3 (Three) Canapes per person and a 3-course meal – Total of 40 (Forty) pax to be catered.
    • Gratuity on food is included based on the 3 (Three) Canapes per person and the 3-Course menu.
    • Wedding to take place subject to availability between July – November 2024
    • Venue is for the couple’s use from 08h00am morning of the wedding until midnight.
    • Rhone Homestead venue includes the standard cutlery, crockery, glassware as well as tables and chairs for up to 40 (Forty) guests.
    • Boschendal Wedding ordinary terms and conditions apply to the package.

    Not included in the package of prize value:

    • All beverages need to be supplied by Boschendal from our events list, this will need to be for the couple, or guests own account. No beverages are included in the prize.
    • Gratuity of 10% (Ten Percent) will be applied to all beverages consumed.
    • Should the couple wish to amend or add onto the menu, these additional menu costs as well as the additional 10% (Ten Percent) gratuity will be for the couple’s own account.
    • No Accommodation is included in the package and is subject to availability and the couple’s own account.
    • Boschendal will require a R10 000.00 (Ten Thousand Rand and Nil Cents) refundable breakage deposit to be paid by the couple when the winner is announced. This will be refunded to the couple post the wedding less any damages or breakages should any occur.
    • Any additional costs that could affect the invoice need to be paid upfront by the couple in full, at least 21 (Twenty-One) days prior to arrival.
    • The venue is inclusive until midnight, should they wish to extend until 02h00, then additional venue hire and overtime fee’s off staff will apply.
    • Should they increase more than 40 (Forty) pax then additional costs will be for the couples account.
    • The venue is a 40 (Forty) seater, should they increase pax then the maximum is 80 (Eighty) guests and a weather back up would be for their own account.  

    2. Murdocks
    • Original 18K yellow gold ring, sizing is to the discretion of the winner, but the value of the rings exceeding the package offered by the sponsor will be for the winner’s own account.

    3. Honeymoon by Jock Safari Lodge- Valid until Nov 2024

    • The voucher is not transferrable and cannot be converted to cash.
    • Accommodation is subject to availability.
    • Extra costs not mentioned are excluded, which include: SANParks conservation levy, transfers, discretional gratuities, premium alcoholic beverages, telephone, laundry, spa and curios are for the winner’s own account.

    4. Blanco Bridal Couture

    • 1x Rental wedding dress for the bride (the winner of the competition)
    • Selection of dresses that is available for winner will be provided once the winner visits Blanco to come and select her wedding dress.
    • Dress sizes range from size 8-14
    • Dress alterations needs to be done at Blanco Bridal Couture – 48 Vredehoek Ave, Cape Town
    • Dress will be collected two days prior to the brides wedding and needs to be returned two days after the brides confirmed wedding date.
    • Alterations will be done 4-6 weeks before bride’s wedding.
    • Prize is valid until November 2024.
    • Rental dress cannot be exchanged for cash or transferred to anyone else.

    5. Zorgvliet Wine Estate

    • Sponsors ordinary terms and conditions apply and is subject to availability.
    • Valid until November 2024.

    6. Weddings By Marius

    • Marius will be working with winning couple to coordinate and liaise with vendors, find additional suppliers if necessary and overseeing the execution of wedding plans leading up to the day.
    7. Summerheart Photography

    • Subject to availability valid until November 2024

    8. Classic Rides

    • Valid until 2024
    • Please note the 2 cars that are for the prize are the 1956 Rover and the 1938 MG Tickford.

    9. Invites and Place Settings

    • Cards by Nadia Valid until November 2024

    10. Amy Cottles Events

    • Bouquet, Corsage and buttonholes for wedding party. Valid until November 2024

    Searching for the feel-good factor? Introduce some positive energy into your beauty routine with a sumptuous pamper session to help keep you calm, cool, and relaxed as you plan your big day. Adding a little self-love will leave you feeling relaxed, rejuvenated and feeling youthful again. Besides, it’s really the little highlights that can make the biggest difference to our well-being!

    Follow this guide and get your hands on these luxe products to turn your bathroom ritual into a full-blown pamper experience.

    Bath-time bliss

    ‘Bathing is a brilliant opportunity to give your body what it needs, and your mind a moment to reset,’ says well-being expert Susanne Kaufmann. You can easily turn your bath into a pamper session with a few additions too.

    So how would you like to feel while submerged in your porcelain throne?

    Relaxed

    There’s nothing quite like a long soak to reset the senses. It’s the perfect ritual before bed, helping you have a good sleep: a hot bath followed by being in a cool bedroom is known to help the body prepare for sleep and tricks you into feeling drowsy. Aid those sensations with Ceridwen’s Cauldron (R135, Lush), which nourishes your skin and helps you switch off.

    Or, if you are feeling tense, don’t underestimate the benefits of a salt bath. It can help with any muscle aches and pains, leaving you feeling soothed. We love Earthsap Bath Soak in Milk & Honey (R75, Made By Nature).

    De-stressed 

    Feeling restless and anxious? Run a bath and choose products packed with calming ingredients, such as The Naturals Organic Bath Bombs (R320, yumm) or Dr Hauschka Moor Lavender Calming Bath Essence (R465, Woolworths).

    As you soak in the scented bath, practise breathing deeply into your abdomen to relax and calm your mind. If you struggle to stay focused, it can help to imagine you are gently inflating your tummy like a balloon as you breathe in, then slowly deflating it as you breathe out. The warm water will aid those feelings of relaxation.

    Upbeat

    If you need a reboot, try adding a few drops of an uplifting essential oil – juniper is effective in stimulating a positive mood – try Soil Juniper Berry Essential Oil (R133, Faithful to Nature). Give your bath a sensuous twist by adding Jo Malone London Peony & Blush Suede Bath Oil 250 ml (R1 000, Edgars). And light a candle to uplift your senses – we adore The Aromatherapy Co Invigorating Candle (R199, @home).

    Comforting Massage 

    As well as treating skin to a pamper session, use your evening regime as a chance to unwind. ‘Turn your cleanse into a moment of mindfulness,’ says acupuncturist and facialist Annee de Mamiel. ‘Face massage helps you unwind, but it’s also a reminder to begin to switch off from the day. Plus it doesn’t cost a thing!’

    Start by warming your cleansing oil in your hands and inhaling the essential oils. Choose something with a soothing scent, such as Bobbi Brown Soothing Cleansing Oil (R1 050, Woolworths). As you massage, you will increase circulation, boost oxygen and detoxify your skin. ‘You’ll be surprised how the texture, volume and radiance of your skin will improve in such a short time.’

    Skin saviours

    It’s the original emblem of what a pamper session should be!. A face mask is the easiest way to treat your skin and give you a bit of a time out. Just make sure you’re using the best one for your skin type.

    Dry skin

    Use: FILORGA Hydra-Filler Mask (R148, skinmiles.co.za)

    This calming sheet mask contains aloe vera to soothe and hyaluronic acid to hydrate, giving your face a plump, juicy glow.

    Sensitive skin

    Use: Lamelle Serra Lipid Recovery Mask (R520, dermastore.co.za)

    When sensitive skin flares up, leave this soothing mask on for 15 minutes, then swipe away any excess with a tissue to calm flushed, tight-feeling skin.

    Feature Image: Unsplash 

    We have all seen the standard French manicure one too many times. While the classics are still great, it’s always a good idea to keep an eye on new trends that the season has to offer. We detail just a few that have caught our attention.

    Double French Manicure

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    Double French #drybynails Manicure by Elitsa @drybylondon

    A post shared by DRYBY (@drybylondon) on

    For the simple, yet classic bride, the double French manicure uses precision and negative spaces to achieve the desired look. Using a fine tip brush, paint white, or any colour for that matter, along the top of your nail and along the part of your nail that starts growing over your finger.

    50 Shade of nude

     

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    #drybynails #nude

    A post shared by DRYBY (@drybylondon) on

    Gradient nudes are quite on trend at the moment, with an array of shades available. Solid colours for each nail is all the look requires, so there isn’t any detail to be concerned about. As long as the colours have a similar undertone (such as a cool or warm shade), they can work well together. Browns, taupes, light pinks and beiges are perfect nude options for all skin tones.

    Painted Cuticles

    The half-moon shape at the bottom of our nails is actually called a lunula. Not everyone’s lunula can be seen on their nails, however, this wedding nail trend exaggerates them in the most beautiful way possible. Start with a solid nude shade across the whole nail. Once dry, use white nail polish to form the half-moon across the base of the nail. This wedding nail trend keeps your nails neutral yet chic.

    Say it with a heart

    Subtle nail art speaks louder than over-the-top gestures in some cases, and this is definitely one of those times. A simple heart decal or even one done free-hand adds that romantic touch to a light pink manicured nail.

    Golden Edges

    Gold always adds that something extra to a nail design and draws your attention in. This look simply uses gold nail polish along the edges of the nail, from the base to the tips. Each nail is done differently to create variety within a look but still keep it cohesive.

    Mother Pearl

    Pearls are a wedding staple, and this look is no exception. Keep it subtle by only including pearl details on one of the fingers from each hand. Be sure to include the pearls while your polish is still wet so the pearls are held in place.

    Vertical Manicure

     

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    Tippex nails by Corina @drybylondon . . . #drybynails #drybylondon #dryby #nailsofinstagram #nails #nailart #beauty #london

    A post shared by DRYBY (@drybylondon) on

    Turn the standard manicure on its side with this vertical French manicure. To create sharp line edges, use tape to block out the sections you wouldn’t want paint to get onto. To keep this look even more trendy, ensure the index finger is the only one with the manicure running the standard, horizontal way. Finish the look with a clear gel top coat and you’re good to go.

    Monograms

    Monograms are a personal touch to add on your special day. You are also able to include them on any nail colour, from darks to nudes. Including the monograms on your ring finger just emphasizes your wedding ring that much more. If you don’t have a steady hand to free-hand the letters, use vinyl stickers and ensure it’s sealed with a top coat to avoid any nicks and chips.

    Subtle Bubbles

     

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    White summer raindrops #drybynails ?☀️?

    A post shared by DRYBY (@drybylondon) on

    With these nails, you might hear the bride shout ‘bubbly, please!’. A simple look, yet a stunning effect with just two colours. Begin with white nail polish and a dotting tool, creating larger white circles closer to the top of the nail and smaller circles around the middle, keep the bottom of the nail remaining clear. These dots can then be outlined using a gold fine brush and the entire nail look sealed off with a clear top coat.

    By Yashna Balwanth

     

    Image: Unsplash

    Congratulations, you are getting married! After many years of relationship and waiting for the man of your life to dare to ask you the famous question, the time has come: you are going to celebrate your wedding and you must organize everything correctly to make it an unforgettable day.

    For many brides to be able to organize their wedding day to their liking is a challenge, since they not only want their dress to be the ideal one and the place where the event will be held to be suitable for the type of ceremony they plan to celebrate, but they also want excellence in each of the details that surround an event of these characteristics: the type of flowers that will predominate throughout the ceremony, the banquet, the music, and of course choose what will be the dresses of their bridesmaids.

    It is a truth known worldwide that a bride will always need at least one bridesmaid on her wedding day, although the ideal and most common is that there will be between 3 and 4 lucky bridesmaids who will accompany the bride to the altar and help her in everything she needs during the most important day of her life.

    Now, what is the best way to choose the dress to be worn by the bridesmaids at your wedding? Is there only one way to get it right? Or does it all depend exclusively on the bride’s taste and the patience you have with her bridesmaids to accommodate her every whim and change of mind?

    The answer is very wide. Cicinia has tons of experience dressing brides and their bridesmaids and they firmly believe that there are two main factors:  the place where the wedding will be held and the time.

    From these two factors, and of course the personal taste of the bride and groom, they assure you that you can choose the dress for your bridesmaids without fear of making a mistake. Knowing where and at what time your wedding will be held will help you to solve many doubts regarding the wardrobe, such as: choose long dresses and dark tones if it is a night wedding or opt for a more casual dress with white tones if it is a beach wedding, among other things.

    Straight from the Cicinia team, they’ll explain six original ways to dress your bridesmaids so that the theme of your wedding and your wardrobe are perfectly combined!

    Take note!

    A wedding based on your moon sign 

    More and more brides are deciding to follow the designs of the moon and prepare their weddings based on what their zodiac signs tell them. For example, if you are a Leo bride, your bridesmaids’ dresses should be striking and quite seductive, because according to what astrology tells us about this fire sign, Leo women are usually very attractive, intelligent and with a great gift of people. Something that translated into the world of fashion results in dresses with large openings in the back, plunging necklines and beautiful silk or satin fabrics.

    Each moon sign is different and unique, so every wedding that is prepared according to these characteristics is unique. Do not miss the opportunity to use this theme to make your wedding unforgettable for you and for all your guests.

    In fact, in Cicinia we already have an opinion on this type of ancient quest, so do not hesitate to visit our article to learn more about it!

    Picture: Supplied

     

    A wedding on the beach 

    Are you and your groom passionate about the beach and have always wanted to celebrate the most romantic day of your life surrounded by sand and sea? If so, you’ll be happy to know that using the beach theme to determine the style of your bridesmaids’ dresses is very effective. In fact, your own dress will also need to be tailored to the circumstances, as walking on the cold, hard aisle of a church is not the same as walking on the warm sand of a beach that sinks beneath your feet.

    A wedding at the sea invites all dresses to be light, with a lot of flight and in white or beige tones. On the other hand, she also suggests you the option of eliminating shoes in your bridesmaids’ ensemble and opting for boho-style dresses with linen and cotton as protagonists. Finally, if you choose to do it in silver you can also think about choosing some kind of tiara or natural updo for you and your bridesmaids since in the sea it is always usually quite airy and for the ceremony and photo shoots you will be much more comfortable to have your hair well collected and out of your face.

    Rustic Wedding 

    If you choose to get married outdoors but instead of opting for the sea you choose the mountains, you can also choose the style of your bridesmaids’ dresses inspired by nature and everything that represents for you to get married in a place as magical as the woods.

    A mountain wedding invites you to choose vintage style dresses, with off-white and lace as the protagonists of the design. On the other hand, you can also add a floral detail at the waist of your bridesmaids’ dresses or in their updos to match your wedding dress. This way you will blend in with your surroundings and look like real forest nymphs. The possibilities are endless, you just have to look at the place where you will get married and try to find dresses that fit perfectly with its light and colours.

    An evening wedding 

    As we mentioned at the beginning of the article, taking into account the time of day you are getting married will also help you determine the type of dress your bridesmaids should wear. Therefore, if you are getting married at night, your bridesmaids’ dresses should be according to the light and tones of a night event, that is, dark tones but full of bright elements that in contact with the light of the spotlights illuminate and generate a hypnotic effect on the dresses.

    An example of the ideal bridesmaid dress for this type of wedding would be a cobalt blue dress covered with sequins and with a large opening in the back. In our catalog you will find a wide variety of options that match this description, do not hesitate to consult it to learn more.

    Indoor wedding in classic style 

    Your wedding will follow all the classic canons of traditional weddings, it will be held in a church and the banquet will be indoors. You may think that this style of wedding is already seen and that your bridesmaids’ dresses will not be anything out of the ordinary, but the truth is that you can also innovate in this field and use the classic style to your advantage to choose a beautiful and timeless design that will make both you and your bridesmaids look very beautiful and fashionable.

    An indoor wedding invites you to choose long silk or satin dresses, with demure sweetheart necklines and with some kind of cape or veil on the shoulders that bring movement and sensuality to the design. Pastel colors are perfect for this type of ceremonies, such as salmon or blue. Whatever your choice, on our website you will surely find the bridesmaid dress that suits your needs.

    Picture: Supplied

    Winter Wedding 

    More and more brides and grooms decide to get married in winter and have a wedding worthy of a Christmas fairy tale. However, getting married when temperatures are so low makes the search for a dress even more complex, but nothing is impossible. You just have to let yourself be carried away by the magic of the season and its colors.

    For example, if you are getting married in December or January you can opt for green or red colors (since you are in the middle of the Christmas season) and thicker fabrics that help your bridesmaids to cope with the cold without preventing them from looking beautiful. Wearing gloves is also a good idea, both to keep your hands from getting cold and to make the whole dress more complete and elegant.

    You can also opt for all-white dresses that emulate snow and do the same with the rest of the decoration. The options for choosing a dress in winter are many, you just have to relax and look at all the information available to you.

    These are six really effective ways in which you can find the perfect dress for your bridesmaids to look spectacular on the most beautiful day of your life. Although they are not the only ways to find your ideal dress, we hope that with the information we have given you and by consulting our website, you will be able to find what you are looking forward to for your wedding.

    For more tips and tricks, visit: https://cicinia.co.uk/

    Pictures: Supplied