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    Wedding ETC

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    In Advice

    Should grooms wear custom-made suits?

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    Wedding dresses are gushed over and are often made the centre of attention on the big day. This may leave you, as the groom, feeling as though your suit is not of much importance. Well, that’s definitely not true! You surely want to look your best on your special day.

    For some, a custom-made suit is the best way to achieve that. Others, however, may be on the fence about whether a bespoke suit is worth it.

    Here are some pros and cons of custom-made suits to help you decide:

    Pros:  

    – Fit 

    Nothing looks better than a suit that fits you perfectly. This is particularly worthy of noting for those who don’t have a “typical” body. Off the rack suits are catered almost exclusively to the “average” body type.

    – Look 

    Material, design, patterns, and style can all be tailored to your exact needs and wants. The look of the suit will be nothing short of what you imagined. You won’t have to settle for the generic offerings of stores.

    – Attention to detail

    Since your suit is being made by a tailor, you’ll get a final product that has been paid careful attention to from start to finish. As a result of this attention to detail, you’ll get the best possible quality.

    Cons: 

    – Cost 

    Since you’re paying for higher quality material as well as the time and labour it takes to create the suit, you’ll be paying quite a bit more than you would for a suit off the racks. You’ll have to consider whether your budget allows for this.

    – Time consuming 

    Bespoke suits are usually made by hand, with minimal machines involved. On top of that, you’ll have to go for a few fittings in order to ensure the suit fits you perfectly. This will take much more time than simply purchasing a suit at a store.

    – May not get your money’s worth 

    Custom-made suits are great, and it’s always good to have one in your closest for special occasions. However, if you’re a guy who doesn’t wear suits very often, splurging on an expensive suit may not be worth your while. If it’s just going to collect dust in your closet, consider a store bought suit instead.

    Image: Unsplash 

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    In Advice

    Do you really need a wedding theme?

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    Some couples go all out with wedding themes, like this pair who had a Harry Potter themed wedding. Others prefer to keep the themes mellow and low-key, opting for ideas such as “rustic” or “vintage”.

    Wedding themes were, in the past, one of the most important decisions to make about your wedding. These days, its really more of a personal preference; whether you have a theme is neither here nor there.

    The draw towards a themed wedding, in general, is the idea of personalising an event that is quite common. For this reason, some may consider a wedding theme imperative. But, in the end, it’s not necessary.

    In fact, choosing to forgo a wedding theme completely may make your life a whole lot easier. A theme limits your options with regards to food, drinks and decor. Having no theme means you can have whatever you want without worrying if it fits with the theme. This connects to the next reason why themed weddings complicate your life.

    Having a theme also means you have to connect all aspects of your wedding to this theme. More often than not, this will take much more time and planning than a regular wedding and can end up costing much more money.

    Guests, usually, have trouble with a themed wedding. Their outfits need more planning and they may have to purchase entirely new items just for your event. For many, this puts them off from attending the wedding at all.

    Instead of going for a full on wedding theme, you could opt to centre your wedding – including food, decor and drinks – around two or three colours. This is much easier and always looks classy.

    Here are some ideas:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BP52ryxBkJV/

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BzyCnU6prmP/

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B8D437Zl5cY/

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B8OWa4YJKM8/

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B8OVUxkhHeQ/

    If you already have your heart set on a themed wedding. That’s okay too, it’s your special day and you should do as you please! Just be sure you’re ready for some extra planning. Here are some themed weddings to help you gather some inspiration:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/ByDjaZQH9Xn/

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BRiKEt8hvv7/

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B7i9yMwh4lR/

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B62Pf7xBEJX/

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B8Hxptno4RO/

    Image: Instagram/Halloweddings

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    In Advice

    How weddings have changed over the years

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    Weddings come with tons of customs and traditions, the history of which is always quite interesting. Many couples are eager to incorporate age-old practices into their weddings. Over the years, however, the practices have changed and transformed.

    For those who want tradition and modernity, or who would prefer to customise their wedding to be more original, perhaps insight into how wedding traditions have changed over the years will help to find a middle ground.

    – Asking for permission 

    In years gone by, it was often considered respectful to ask a woman’s father for her hand in marriage. Today, women have much more agency and are no longer considered to be “passed on” to their husbands. Many still follow this custom as a sign of respect. However, others have completely done away with the tradition.

    – Veils 

    Originally, the wedding veil was a way to protect the bride from evil spirits on her wedding day. In 1849, however, Queen Victoria donned a veil as fashion for the first time ever. Since then, many brides have decided to go without a veil or have replaced it with other accessories such as flower crowns.

    – Not seeing each other before the ceremony

    In the past, it was considered to be very bad luck for the groom to see the bride before the wedding. This tradition started at a time when arranged marriages were more common, and was a way to ensure that a groom did not have a change of heart before the ceremony.

    Today, many couples have “first look” shoots. They have a private moment together before their nuptials to capture the first moment they see each other in their wedding attire.

    – Receptions 

    Today, we have large receptions that take months of preparation and planning. We offer full meals and often have a constant flow of food and drink for our guests. Previously, a wedding reception was merely some cake and tea at the home of the brides parents.

    – The classic vows 

    The classic wedding vows, which can be traced back to 1549, say that the bride promises to “love, honour, keep, obey, and serve” her husband to be. The last two words are often dropped, these days.

    – Rice throwing 

    Traditionally, newly-weds were sent off from their weddings by having rice tossed at them. Today, bubbles, eco-friendly glitter, or sparklers, amongst other things are often used instead.

    Image: Unsplash 

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    In Advice

    What to ask for instead of wedding gifts

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    Asking for wedding gifts can be a bit awkward. It gets even more uncomfortable if you’re asking for money instead of gifts. But, perhaps you don’t want gifts at all. If you and your partner are philanthropic people, then you may be considering ways to use your wedding to give back.

    Requesting charitable replacements for wedding gifts is much easier than asking for alternative wedding gifts such as money. People are likely to be on board, because who could resist such a sweet gesture!

    If you’ve set your heart on asking for something charitable to make the world a better place, then consider these ideas:

    – Plant some trees 

    This is one of the simplest ways to give back. Request that guest plant a tree in place of your gift. You can provide them with seeds or have them buy their own. Either way, its a great option.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B7VOVZgpu54/

    – Donate to a charity 

    Organisations such as Greater Good SA, Starfish Greathearts Foundation, Prodder, and Play Your Part are great to help you find and set up a way to use your wedding to donate to a charity. Get in contact with them and find out how you can make the world a better place with your nuptials.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B7TQyZSAeuc/

    – Ask for a charity pack 

    Decide on a cause, for example helping the homeless or providing for a child at an orphanage. Then request that each guest bring a basket or bag filled with goods for somebody in need. You can take the packs to an organisation who will give them out to those who need them most or you can keep a few in your car and give them to somebody in need if you pass them somewhere.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BjfkXnRlN5o/

    – Help a child in need

    There are wonderful organisations that allow for you to easily help a child in need. Get into contact with an organisation with UNICEF and ask how you can donate to their causes. Perhaps you could get every guest to donate a small amount of money, using your wedding as a collection point.

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

    – Set up donation boxes 

    Let your guests know you will be having a clothing drive or a food drive at your wedding. Set up some boxes and collect!

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B3iPEmoHzqc/

    Image: Unsplash 

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    In Destination

    Romantic things to do in Bruges

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    Most couples look to tropical islands for the ideal romantic getaway. You wouldn’t be wrong, islands are amazing destinations for couples. However, cities make for magical escapes too… if you know where to look. Bruges in Belgium is one of the best cities for a romantic getaway.

    The city is known for its cobbled streets and medieval buildings and offers many options for romantic activities.

    Here are some of the best things to do In Bruges.

    – Couple’s Boat Tour along the canals 

    https://www.instagram.com/p/Bs7lhRyHTxz/

    Ride along the canal side-by-side with swans and see the city from a different perspective. This is one of the most romantic things to do in the city. It’ll be like a scene from a movie.

    – Indulge in Belgian Chocolates 

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B5gKdu3HhT1/

    As we all know, Belgium is known for its chocolates. For this reason, there is an abundance of chocolate shops to satisfy your every need. Stop by at one…or ten of these shops and get your fill of hot chocolate, waffles, and much more. After all, chocolate is the way we show love!

    – Cross the Meestraat Bridge 

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BV5DK6yA7Uw/

    This is known as the bridge for eternal love. The legend says that a young woman, Minna, died on this spot while trying to reunite with her lover. The story goes that if you cross the bridge with your partner, your love will be eternal. How could you pass up this opportunity to ensure a long-lasting love?

    – Take a horse-drawn carriage through the city 

    https://www.instagram.com/p/Bxcfyl2H807/

    It doesn’t get more “fairytale romance” than this! A relaxing ride on the cobble-stone roads, marvelling at the architecture and happily sitting side-by-side is a great way to spend the day.

    – Have a date night at the Markt 

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

    The Markt is essentially the town square and, unlike the rest of the town which is asleep by 7pm, it stays lit up and lively until the early hours of the morning.

    At The Markt you can get snacks, enjoy the vibe, climb up the belfry tower, or have a sit down meal at a fancy restaurant. If you’re there at Christmas time, you’ll find an ice-skating rink in the market square too.

    – Have a picnic at Minnewater Park

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B7g7-i5oVjU/

    Take the stroll in the beautiful park and pack a picnic to enjoy on the lush green grass after your walk. Sit by the lake, known as The Lake of Love, and watch as the swans float by.

    – Visit the Groeningemuseum

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B0v8A5-AaXj/

    At the museum you’ll see more than 600 years’ worth of Belgian and Flemish paintings. Immerse yourself in some culture and get some great photos.

    Image: Pixabay 

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    In Advice

    How to have a successful wedding dress shopping trip

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    With endless choices in front of you and multiple opinions getting thrown at you from all directions, wedding dress shopping can be stressful! However, it’s an experience you’ve probably been dreaming of for years and it can be a magical event if you plan it properly.

    It’s easy to get lost in the overwhelmingly dreamy ambience of a bridal store. Be sure that you’re prepared before you enter those doors.

    Here are some tips to help you ensure you have a successful wedding dress shopping trip:

    Set a budget

    Before you get your heart set on a dress you can’t afford, set a budget and let the stores consultant know before they bring you any options. A budget helps you set your expectations realistically and also narrow down your options. Narrowing your options may sound disheartening, but in the end it’s a good thing. There are so many incredible options that can make the process difficult as it becomes hard to choose.

    Start early 

    Never underestimate how long the dress process takes. Usually, gowns can take about 4 to 10 months to be made and completed. Choosing the dress, alterations, and three or more fitting appointments each at least a month apart makes the process span across many months. Getting started early ensures that your dress is with you well before the wedding, and takes a lot of dress stress off of your shoulders. Don’t forget that choosing a dress on it’s own can take a while!

    Do your research 

    Having a general idea about the style of dress you want can speed up your dress shopping experience drastically. You’ll be doing yourself a huge favour by doing some style research prior to shopping.

    Additionally, knowing what types of dresses are a good fit for your body will save you a lot of disappointment. You may see a dress that is the most stunning creation you’ve ever seen, but when you try it on it just doesn’t look the way you want it to. Do some reading about which styles suit your body to avoid getting attached to something that doesn’t fit your figure.

    Moreover, it helps to go in having some general knowledge of wedding dress jargon. It’s not necessary, but it saves time. You won’t have to ask “what does that mean?” several times throughout your appointment.

    Keep your team small 

    Decide who really needs to be there and don’r bring more than 4 or 5 people. Ensure you’re surrounded by positive people who understand you and your preferences. Taking a smaller group of people on your shopping trip also ensures that you have less unnecessary opinions clouding your judgement.

    Be comfortable but prepared 

    Don’t get too dolled up, but wear some makeup and keep your hair looking good. This will help you to envision yourself on your wedding day. If you show up to fit dresses straight after a run, you may feel less glamorous and thus may reject dresses that you wouldn’t had you felt better!

    Wear appropriate undergarments! It will give you a better idea of the real fit of the dress. Similarly, bring some extra shoes along. You’ll want to know what your dress looks like with the appropriate shoes, instead of with your trusty shopping sneakers.

    Forget the comfort zone 

    You have be comfortable in particular styles, but give some others a try too. It won’t hurt at all, and you may stumble on something perfect.

    Don’t compare your experience to others

    Some people find their dresses immediately, others take weeks to find the perfect one. Don’t put pressure on yourself to fall in love with the first dress you see. Take your time.

    Remember to move in the gown 

    When you’re fitting a gown, try dancing in it, walking in it, hugging in it and so on. If you can’t move properly, you’re likely to be very uncomfortable on the day.

    Speak your mind 

    If you want something, say it. If you don’t like something, say that too. Don’t keep your thoughts to yourself or spare any feelings with regards to people’s opinions about your dress. At the end of the day, you’re the one wearing it on your special day.

    Take a photo 

    Once you choose your dress, take a photo of yourself wearing it. You likely won’t get to see it again for a while. This will help you when the doubts and second-thoughts start to creep in. Just re-look at how enchanting you look in your chosen gown, and you’ll be good to go.

    Also read: Wedding dress shopping timeline

    Image: Unsplash

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    In Advice

    Dos and Don’ts of wedding invitations

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    Wedding invitations are a big deal! They ensure your guests have all the necessary information and they give people an idea of your theme. Essentially, the invitation is the first taste people will get of your special day. The last thing you want is to miss the mark with your first impression.

    There are a lot of considerations to remember when designing your wedding invitation. Not to mention the lengthy list of etiquette rules you need to follow.

    Here are some dos and don’ts of wedding invitations, to help you through the process:

    Do:

    – Ensure the invitations match your wedding

    Wedding invitations should match your wedding theme and colour scheme. This gives guests a good idea about what to expect.

    – Include directions 

    This added effort will be much appreciated by your guests. Never take for granted that people know the location or how to get there. Visitors from out of town will be especially grateful.

    – Put the Bride’s name first 

    Traditionally, wedding etiquette states that you should put the bride’s name first. This is a very small way to stick with age-old customs.

    – Be consistent 

    If you’re using formal language on your invites, keep it formal on other cards like the RSVP card or the save the date too. Similarly, stick to a colour scheme and theme.

    – Add an RSVP card 

    This will make it easier for guests to respond to your invitation. Put all necessary information on the card, including dietary requirements or menu choices, whether they will be bringing a plus one (if you’ve allowed them one) and whether they will be attending at all.

    Don’t: 

    – Add your wedding registry 

    It is considered quite rude to expect a gift for your wedding. Instead of adding the registry to your invite, include it on your bridal shower invites or on your wedding website.

    – Forget to keep one for yourself

    Your wedding invitation makes for a great keepsake. It’s a good idea to keep one for yourself, and perhaps have it framed.

    – Send them out too late 

    You’ll struggle to get RSVPs and many guests won’t make it if you send the invitations out too late. People need to plan ahead so they can be available and some may need to travel long distances to get to you! Remember that everyone is busy, be considerate about that and send out the invitations no less than 2 months prior to the wedding.

    – Be vague about who is invited 

    Put the full names of guests on the invitation. If somebody is allowed a plus one, indicate it clearly.

    If you’re having a child-free wedding, be clear about it. However, it is considered more polite to indicate that the wedding is an “adults reception” rather than stating “no kids”.

    – Forget important information 

    Names, dates, times, location. Add all of these things! If your reception is in a different location to the ceremony, indicate that. Anything that may affect the guests’ attendance is worth mentioning.

    Image: Unsplash 

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    Affordable Beauty cosmetics at Red Dot cosmetic shop in Cape Town
    In Accessories

    Affordable Beauty cosmetics at Red Dot cosmetic shop in Cape Town

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    Get beauty cosmetics at new Red Dot cosmetic shop in Cape Town

    Red Dot Cosmetics aims to sell affordable and quality cosmetic products to consumers in South Africa – for face, hands, accessories or any skin & body part.

    The name ‘Red Dot’ originated from sale prices which are displayed in a red circle, coining the phrase that customers can now get their favorite beauty products at decent prices.

    The online store assures to deliver quality products and informative content about health and beauty. Shop items from the comfort of your own home on Red dot’s 100% secured e-commerce platform.  Operating times are Monday-Friday from 9h00-18h00. For online assistance or desperate queries please email [email protected].

    Makeup online: Our list of beauty cosmetics

    Lipstick, blush, eye shadow, highlighters, brushes, mascara, setting spray, lip liner, eye pencil, nails, treatment and more.

    Contact information:

    Website: https://www.reddotcosmetics.co.za

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/reddotcosmetics/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reddotcosmetics/

    Visit Red Dot products to find out more about this online makeup store.

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    In Drinks

    Pros and cons of an alcohol-free wedding

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    Considering an alcohol-free wedding can be stressful. We know that weddings are big parties and many guests will expect some drinks. We also know that you want your guests to have a good time. At the end of the day, however, it’s your special day and you’re free to do as you please.

    Maybe you and your partner are not big drinkers or maybe you come from religious families who frown upon drinking. Whatever the reason, you have a tricky decision to make.

    Here are some pros and cons of an alcohol-free wedding to help you make the best choice for you:

    Pros: 

    – Your expenses will be much lighter on the pocket 

    Supplying all your guests with enough alcohol for the entire wedding can cost you a small fortune. You’ll also have to provide the drinks whether or not they consume all of it.

    If you have an alcohol-free wedding, you save all of that money!

    – There’s no risk of guests getting too tipsy 

    Everybody has that one family member who tends to get a bit out of control with the drinks. There is always a risk of things getting out of hand when there are drinks involved.

    Avoid all the potential shenanigans with an alcohol-free wedding.

    – You can get creative 

    There are tons of alternatives to alcohol, and the concept is not unheard of. Get creative with mocktails or other replacements. This is a chance for you to add more of your personality to your special day.

    – Everyone gets home safely 

    There will be no need for Uber, Taxify, or any other app. Guests will leave completely sober and will get home safely.

    Cons: 

    – The dance floor might be less lively 

    Drinks do tend to lighten the mood; they definitely loosen your guests up more than anything else can. Without alcohol, there may be less mingling and dancing.

    – No champagne toast 

    Toasting to your marriage may be a bit weird without champagne.

    – It’s against expectations 

    Most guests expect to be served drinks at a wedding. This could lead to some disappointed or fidgety people in your audience.

    Whatever you decide,  remember that this is your day!  You can do what you like. It is a good idea, however, to mention that the wedding is an alcohol-free zone on your invitation – if that’s the route you decide to take. It will save you a lot of unnecessary questions from guests on the big day.

    There are in-between options too.  You don’t necessarily have to choose between zero alcohol or freely flowing drinks. A cash bar or a limited bar may also be possibilities to consider.

    Also read: Open bar vs cash bar: what’s the difference?

    Image: Pexels 

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    In Engagements

    10 fun engagement party ideas

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    Now that you’ve got the ring, you’ve said yes, and you’ve spread your great news, it’s time to celebrate! Your engagement party is the first of many celebrations to come before the wedding in which you get to honour your relationship. You’ll definitely want to start your wedding journey off with a bang.

    While some may opt for the traditional engagement party, others may want to spice things up a bit. Since an engagement party is a celebration of the couple, it should reflect their personalities, right?

    Here are some fun engagement party ideas to get your imagination flowing:

    –  Classy back yard picnic 

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B6IHLX2jDGj/

    – Garden Dinner 

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B1rjBtCpgBv/

    – Wine and cheese tasting 

    https://www.instagram.com/p/Bw4_FA6nsf7/

    – Casino Party 

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B72t3fbov5q/

    – At home silent disco 

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B75doWRhyQQ/

    – Glamping for a night 

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B73fzA1Dg5w/

    – A bonfire at the beach 

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B7vv3SqnjiR/

    – Dress up/themed party 

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BlOJN91nsl-/

    – Backyard movie night 

    https://www.instagram.com/p/Bxi2mcsHPzO/

    – Cocktail party 

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B7449HyDnxI/

    Bonus: 

    – Tribute to your first date

    If you did something exciting on your first date or ate some great food, try to incorporate that into the party. If you went to a certain restaurant, perhaps you could host the party there. Maybe you went to a carnival – you could either have all your guest join you at another carnival, or you could have a carnival themed party.

    Image: Pexels 

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