Wedding ETC, Author at Wedding ETC

In Guys

A guide to groom cakes

February 25, 2020 No Comments

As with many practices surrounding weddings, the groom cake comes from deeply rooted traditions. Beginning in the late 19th century in England this form of cake gained popularity across the world quite quickly.

It started as a result of perceptions that the traditional wedding cake appeared much too feminine for the groom. As such, a special confectionary treat was made for the man. It was often a liquor-infused fruit cake.

At the time the tradition started, a legend formed. The story goes that single women would take a piece of this cake home and put it under her pillow as she slept, in the hopes of dreaming about her future groom. Sleeping on a slice of cake doesn’t seem too appealing, but hey, perhaps it’s worth it for a glimpse into the coming years.

These days the groom cake serves as a gift to the groom from his partner. They should have the cake made especially for him, ensuring that it incorporates his personality, interests, and favourite flavours. At the end of the wedding, the cake is cut up, boxed, and given to guests to take home.

If you’re planning on getting your groom a special cake, here is some inspiration:

https://www.instagram.com/p/B4Lf6OgH63E/

https://www.instagram.com/p/B7hzuF7BP6H/

https://www.instagram.com/p/B7b6OlsA_bE/

https://www.instagram.com/p/Byvr_3Hg6An/

https://www.instagram.com/p/Butr8RcnaQ1/

https://www.instagram.com/p/B7RIt0CF06m/

https://www.instagram.com/p/B6wBjOeHEs5/

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

https://www.instagram.com/p/B59Sg4bhT4i/

Image: Pixabay

In Destination

World’s Most Instagrammable Honeymoon Destinations

February 25, 2020 No Comments

If you’re the type who enjoys sharing your experiences on Instagram, then you should read closely. Photography and videography experts, The Photo Team, did some research and found out which honeymoon destinations are the most insragrammable.

By searching the hashtag #honeymoondestinations, as one does when looking for honeymoon inspiration, the team complied a list of the top 26 locations.

The results are in and they are very interesting. Cape Town has ranked 8th on the list, being hashtagged 12 234 629 times!

Here are the top 10:

1. Paris

Number of searches: 120 351 166

https://www.instagram.com/p/B89yktloXt3/

2. Bali

Number of searches: 67 097 317

https://www.instagram.com/p/B80Mh–n14K/

Also read: Must-do honeymoon activities in Bali.

3. Tokyo

Number of searches: 50 531 831

https://www.instagram.com/p/B86OZN6J7rD/

4. Bangkok

Number of searches: 34 864 480

https://www.instagram.com/p/B84s93xhZCe/

5. Sicily

Number of searches: 18 338 616

https://www.instagram.com/p/B8-oQqUC74K/

6. Buenos Aires

Number of searches: 17 168 992

https://www.instagram.com/p/B89vtVUCLjf/

7. Venice

Number of searches: 16 382 292

https://www.instagram.com/p/B82SohCHOZK/

Also read: Heavenly Honeymooning:Italy

8. Cape Town

Number of searches: 12 234 629

https://www.instagram.com/p/B3nBM9aAyrj/

9. Sri Lanka

Number of searches: 11 243 511

https://www.instagram.com/p/B85Yy7Znk27/

Also read: Romantic things to do in Sri Lanka

10. Cancun

Number of searches: 10 366 556

https://www.instagram.com/p/B5WFW6YJTTO/

The rest of the list is as follows:

Phuket, Maldives, Marrakech, Lombok, Maui, Santorini, Mauritius, Nairobi, Dubrovnik, Amalfi Coast, Bora Bora, Lapland, Napa Valley, Reykjavik, Seychelles, and São José do Campos.

Be sure to check them all out on Instagram before making your pick! You’ll find the best place for you, and have fun while doing it.

Featured image: Shutterstock-Phattana stock

In Advice

Romantic things to do in Livingstone

February 24, 2020 No Comments

Livingstone is one of the most popularly visited locations in Zambia. The town is only 10 kilometres from the Zambezi River and is the hub for tourists looking to visit the Victoria Falls.

Boasting the title of home to one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the town is perfect for a romantic getaway. Not only is there stunning natural elements, but the town is steeped in history too.

Here are some things you should get up to with your partner when you visit Livingstone:

– Visit the Victoria Falls

Being one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, it would be a huge mistake to miss the Victoria Falls. It’s not every day you get to witness things like this, and to see it with your loved one by your side makes it that much more special.

It’s likely that you’ll catch a very special rainbow show too – the side effect of tons of water flowing over the edge of the cliff.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B79RRoCAynD/

– Take a dip in the Devil’s Pool

While the name sounds scary, the activity is a must-do. It is the perfect way to top off your visit to the Victoria Falls.

The pool is located on the very edge of the waterfall. Get your heart racing as you stare down at the unnervingly drop, and get the adrenaline rush that’ll make your romantic getaway unforgettable.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B8jbsC0AuA9/

– Visit The Elephant Café

This sanctuary allows you to get a glimpse of some wildlife, ethically. The elephants have been rescued from dangerous situations such as culling and drought and are kept here where they roam freely.

After spending some time with these gentle giants, you can have a delicious meal at the café. Relax on the wooden deck and experience a meal like you never have before.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BkR-nD_FuAq/

– Take a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River

Sit back, relax, and take in the views with a drink in hand. Sundowners are a staple of any getaway, but sundowners on a river cruise makes for the perfect romantic activity.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B7qSulcFljl/

– Visit the Livingstone Museum

Learn about the town, its history and its culture. You’ll gain some interesting knowledge and see some cool exhibitions, including a life-sized village display. Add a dose of culture to your romantic getaway!

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

– Have a fancy meal on a steam train

Taking you on a sunset ride on the Victoria Falls Bridge, the Royal Livingston Express will be a trip that you never forget. Indulge in some fancy, local cuisine as you take in the sights and sounds from the window of the old school train.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bne2VnMFFjU/

Featured image: Instagram / livingstoneislandzambia

In Planning

Most popular dates to marry in 2020

February 24, 2020 No Comments

If you’re planning on getting married this year and, for whatever reason, you haven’t set a date yet then you’ve come to the right place! Zola, a company who have modernised the wedding industry with their free suite of wedding tools, have released its list of the most popular wedding dates for 2020.

Zola’s Editorial Manager, Lindsay Dolak said “We’ve actually heard of a lot of couples who had longer engagements so they could get married in 2020”.

Their list of the most popular wedding dates is as follows:

Saturday, May 16, 2020
Saturday, May 30, 2020
Saturday, June 6, 2020
Saturday, June 20, 2020
Saturday, September 12, 2020
Saturday, September 19, 2020
Saturday, September 26, 2020
Saturday, October 3, 2020
Saturday, October 10, 2020
Saturday, October 17, 2020

“Choosing a date with a special pattern means your partner has literally no excuse to forget your anniversary,” said Dolak. The top five are dates which are patterned and easy to remember include, 10/10/2020, 9/19/2020, and 6/6/2020.

Saturdays are clearly the winners, with every date falling on this day of the week. Presumably, this is because it’s the most convenient day for both the couple and those attending the wedding.

Previously, September was the most popular month to get married. However, it has been surpassed by October for 2020.

If you’re wondering what day Zola found to be the least popular, that would be Tuesday, November 3. This is election day in the US.

No matter what the research says, you should choose the best wedding day for you. Don’t be pressured by the numbers!

Image: Unsplash

In Bachelorette Party

Do’s and don’ts of bachelorette parties

February 24, 2020 No Comments

The bachelorette party is about letting loose and having a good time with your girls. You’ve got long lists of things to do and organise for your wedding day and you’re feeling very overwhelmed. This party is meant to be a time away from all the hustle and bustle.

But, it can get a little complicated if you don’t prepare. It can also get a bit messy if you haven’t thought the event through before hand.

Here are some do’s and don’ts to ensure you have the best, most relaxing time.

For Brides

Do:

– Say what you want and be clear about it. Let your bridesmaids know what you expect and what you’re comfortable with. If you want something quiet and low key, say so. If you don’t want a stripper, say so. This is the best way to avoid disappointment and an event that makes you super uncomfortable.

– Respect your partner’s comfort level. If they are not comfortable with you being around exotic dancers, that is something that you should take into consideration. It’s not worth a fight.

– Allow the bridesmaids some freedom. Let them get creative with the information you’ve provided and don’t try to control everything! You’ve given them your guest list, told them what you want and don’t want, so let them run with it. They are your nearest and dearest after all!

Don’t:

– Stay glued to your phone all night. You can check in with your soon-to-be once or twice, but avoid texting all night. Your friends will be annoyed, you’ll come across as ungrateful, and in the end you’ll regret it as you won’t have enjoyed your night.

– Feel obligated to invite every woman you know. This is an intimate event. Only your closest friends should be there.

– Let the “last chance” talk get the best of you. Most will be encouraging and excited about your upcoming big day. But at your bachelorette party, there may be a few chats about this being your last chance to partake in some questionable activities. Don’t fall into this trap. It’ll be nothing but trouble ahead if you do.

For bridesmaids

Do:

– Respect the brides wishes. If she said no strippers, then do not hire strippers. You’ll ruin her night if you do.

– Plan the event well in advance. You want everybody to make it, so planning in advance ensures that the date is saved and arrangements can be made. Included in the planning is what you’ll do on the evening. Make the bookings necessary and plan the games. This allows you to have a stress free night.

– Take photos and make memories. This is something you’ll all never want to forget. Don’t forget to put somebody in charge of photography.

Don’t:

– Invite mothers or mothers-in-law. I guarantee you, it will be awkward.

– Force the bride into things she’s uncomfortable with. If you’ve planned a silly outfit for her, but she refuses to wear it then let it be. Forcing it will cause unnecessary tension and the bride, the most important person at the event, won’t enjoy it.

– Get post happy. Before you share anything online, check with the bride. She might not want people seeing pictures of this intimate, private event.

– Be clear about costs for all attendees. If somebody can’t afford it, but they show up because they were unaware of the costs it will be quite uncomfortable for that person. Try to be considerate of everyone, in any way you can.

Image: Unsplash

In Celebs

Celebrities who have had buddymoons

February 21, 2020 No Comments

The rise of the buddymoon (instead of a honeymoon) has taken the world by storm. It has quickly become a popular trend, particularly with younger couples.

Those couples who have already lived together for a while don’t feel the need for a honeymoon either. In the years gone by, honeymoons were important because it generally was the first time couples would get to be alone together. Today, this is not really the case so couples have become creative with celebrating.

The result of this creativity is buddymoons. Celebrities have joined in on the fun too. Alicia Keys and Swizz Beats brought some extra company along for their honeymoon, and so did Blake Shelton and Miranda Lambert.

Here are 5 other celebrity couples who have had buddymoons:

Jennifer Aniston and Justin Theroux

The Friends actress, Aniston, and hubby Theroux had quite a star-studded buddymoon. The former lovebirds were accompanied by Courtney Cox, Chelsea Handler, Jason Bateman, Jimmy Kimmel and Tobey Maguire at the Four Seasons in Bora Bora.

About the Buddymoon, Theroux said, “We had thought about it; we could just do a normal honeymoon or we could go with friends, keep the party going, relax and have fun.” Speaking to Extra, he said “It was a fantastic honeymoon. It was really special, it was really beautiful.”

https://www.instagram.com/p/BXbjAnHlbx3/

Heidi Klum and Tom Kaulitz

After their wedding in Capri the couple continued the festivities on a smaller yacht. Their honeymoon was a week long and they ensured their family and friends were by their sides.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B8POpsToUAc/

Michelle Keegan and Mark Wright

After their real honeymoon in the Maldives, Coronation Street actress Michelle Keegan and her husband Mark Wright took a trip to Dubai with their parents and Wrights brother and his girlfriend.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B7yPWv8AE3h/

Meghan Trainor and Daryl Sabara

All about that bass singer Meghan Trainor wed Spy Kids star Sabara in their home in Los Angelas. Thereafter, they headed to Bora Bora for some exciting activities with friends and family. They spent their time going on boat trips, skydiving and water biking.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B5X-V7qnhCW/

Miley Cyrus and Liam Hemsworth

Miley and Liam opted for a ski trip honeymoon, after their small and private wedding at home. Hemsworths brothers, Chris and Luke, and their wives joined the newly-weds in Montana.

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

Image: Instagram / Justin Theroux

In News

Bride orders dress online and regrets it

February 21, 2020 No Comments

The stereotype may suggest that all women love shopping, but that’s not really the case. For some, shopping can be an annoying or stressful experience. These women usually opt for the online shopping route.

Wedding dress shopping is even more taxing a task. Online shopping may seem like a good way to relieve some of the stress. It could give you more time to deal with other wedding organisation to-do’s, it saves you from endless interactions with consultants in bridal stores, and may even be more affordable. But we all know it comes with some risks.

This bride decided to take the chance. If the outcome of her online shopping escapades was not so funny it would be tragic.

The bride-to-be ordered what she thought would be a stunning lace dress with a cascading skirt. What she got, however, was much more comical. The dress, while it did somewhat resemble the picture’s lace and a cascading skirt, came with defining boob-cupholders.

Taking to instagram to share her misfortune, she wrote “Online order fail. Don’t worry though a new better dress has been purchased”.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BySx8VWpI89/?utm_source=ig_embed

The image she shared had her followers in stitches.

“Omg no way!!!! So funny, how could someone even ship that lol,” said @lizard17 in the comments. “Look on the bright side…you got yourself a Halloween costume now. Make the boob pads seashells and paint the dress green and boom you’re Ariel! Glad you were able to get a laugh out of this. Weddings can be stressful!,” said another follower, @dodgeret.

We can confirm that the bride replaced her dress with something much more fitting for the occasion:

https://www.instagram.com/p/BzFnAOzpe8E/

Congrats to the bride! And for those of you brides-to-be considering online dress shopping, let this be a lesson in the risks involved.

Image: Instagram / sup_clover

In Advice

How to entertain kids at your wedding

February 20, 2020 No Comments

Child-free weddings are the best option for some. But if you’re somebody with lots of kids in your life, like little nieces and nephews, then you probably want to have them around on your special day.

There are a couple of things you need to consider if you’re having a kid-friendly wedding. First, weddings can be long and overwhelming for kids. In all likelihood, there will be a few tantrums. Second, you want the parents to enjoy the occasion and not be running after their kids all day.

In order to minimise tantrums and keep the kids occupied, you should provide some sort of entertainment. Here are some fun ways to keep them busy:

– Kids tables

Let them keep each other company! The kids can make new friends and play together as the adults catch-up and enjoy the festivities. You’d be surprised how well this works, it’s like a day-long play date.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B8HM8MfhjV1/

– Games galore

If you’re having a summer wedding, or if the winter weather allows, ensure that you have lots of outdoor games. Running around in the fresh air, playing games in the sun will keep the kids busy and might even tire them out.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B8wDrbrncc5/

– Napping area

Once they’ve participated in the various activities, and maybe had a snack or two, they may want a nap. Set up a cozy sleeping corner and they’ll be off to dreamland! A mid-wedding nap decreases the likelihood of tantrums, so this one is important.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B8Yk5H_AUbh/

– Kid friendly drinks

Make them feel as though they’re part of the festivities. They’ll see all the adults with drinks in hand, and if they’re given their own little drinks station, they’ll feel included and welcome.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B8Hnq9KlxSz/

– Kid friendly snacks

Kids are not intrested in fancy starters and several course meals. They don’t even want your decadent desserts. It’s best to provide some familiar snacks for the little ones. It may even be cool to set up a buffet table just for them.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B8PXT50DuUp/

– Hire entertainers

When in doubt, hire a professional. There are baby-sitters and entertainers who specialise in taking care of kids at weddings. They’ll bring games, costumes for entertainment, and much more. You won’t have to worry about a thing.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B8q3NMJB9a_/

Also read: Should you invite kids to your wedding?

Image: Unsplash

In Engagements

Why women propose on a leap year

February 20, 2020 No Comments

Conventionally, men are the ones who pop the big question. But on leap day (February 29) which only comes once every four years, women take control. For those who no longer want to wait for the man in their lives to get up his nerve, you’re in luck. It’s a leap year!

The tradition of women proposing on a leap day is believed to date back to the 5th century. Legend has it that St Bridget, an Irish nun, was frustrated that women had to wait for long periods of time for their suitors to propose.

She then lodged this complaint with St Patrick (the primary patron saint of Ireland). Eventually, the two came to an agreement. St Patrick decreed that women were allowed to propose on this one specific day, leap day. For the time period, this was quite a liberal decision on St Patrick’s part.

As part of the deal, St Patrick added in some terms and conditions. The ladies who were ready to get down on one knee had a rule to follow. Women were required to wear either a scarlet petticoat or breeches to pop the question.

It is said that this was added to the agreement to help the men out. It serves as an early-warning system for men who are afraid of the ultimate commitment, apparently.

Interestingly, the story stipulates that those men who reject the proposal are required to give the woman a kiss and a silk dress. This is because St Bridget is said to have proposed to St Patrick, who declined and offered these as a consolation. Historians, however, suggest that St Bridget was only 9 or 10 years old when St Patrick died and there isn’t much evidence to support this story. However, the legend lives on and the tradition is still going strong.

Leap day seems to have a lot of lore about marriage surrounding it. In Greece, Ukraine and Finland, it is believed that a leap day wedding is bad luck.

Nevertheless, a leap day is something special! It only comes around once every four years. It could be fun to make it even more special by proposing to your man.

But remember, you’ve got to follow the one rule.

Image: Instagram / grouponuk

In Planning

I still do: renewing your vows

February 20, 2020 No Comments

Renewing your vows may possibly be better (for you) than saying them for the first time. You’re likely to be a hundred times less nervous, which means your day will feel much smoother. You also may have started a little family to celebrate alongside you in the years after your vows were first uttered.

There are many more up-sides to having your vows renewed. One of these being that there are less expectations, norms and rules to follow for vow renewals. Your parents won’t require you to invite that one aunt you’ve never really clicked with, for instance.

Weddings are steeped in tradition and thus come with many do’s and don’ts. But with vow renewals, you can let your imagination run free.

If you’re worried about updating paper work, there’s no need! A vow renewal ceremony is not a legal one and thus requires no registered officiates or trips to Home Affairs. This ceremony is more about romance, celebration, commemoration and for some, spirituality.

Some couples renew their vows on a big anniversary, while others use it as a way to celebrate making it through a tough time together. But in all honesty, you don’t need a reason. Maybe you just lacked the funds for a big celebration the first time around and now have the means to throw a fancy party. That is reason enough to celebrate your love again.

So if you’re planning on a big day 2.0 here are some quick tips:

– Get creative

Since you have free reign you should go wild with your ideas. Choose a loved one to officiate, have your kids walk you down the aisle, pick that venue that you’re worried will be too much. Just go for it!

– Vows

Since it is a renewal, you’ll want to update your vows to be more relevant to your life together as it is now, not as it was back then.

– Wedding party and registry

These two things are usually left out of the renewal ceremony. But if you want to have them, you definitely can.

– Photographer

Be sure to book a photographer to capture all the memories! An occasion as special as this should always be documented.

Here are some real life vow renewals to inspire you:

https://www.instagram.com/p/B8u6iH6BwgW/

https://www.instagram.com/p/B8sorEcBqLn/

https://www.instagram.com/p/B8svXP8FVJG/

https://www.instagram.com/p/B8ucBBPDdsi/

https://www.instagram.com/p/B8tn3K6jKVj/

Image: Unsplash