Wedding ETC, Author at Wedding ETC

In Advice

Top 5 reasons to have a breakfast wedding

November 29, 2019 No Comments

We’re all familiar with dreamy afternoon weddings that celebrate late into the evening. While this can be a beautiful and more traditional approach, there’s something simply magical about a breakfast wedding.

1. They’re way more budget-friendly

Hosting a morning wedding can often mean cutting costs on venue and food, with certain locations lowering their prices as it’s a less busy time. There also won’t be nearly as much drinking in the morning, and simple mimosas, coffees and teas should suffice. Planning this kind of wedding in off-peak season will also help you save on venue costs.

2. The timing will be more flexible

Starting the celebrations earlier allows you much more time to either carry on celebrating or to head home early and jet off for your honeymoon. There will be no rush to hurry any part of the event, and you will find guests will feel more refreshed and calm during the entire affair.

3. There’s more room for intimacy

A breakfast/brunch wedding is perfect for smaller groups and more intimate moments between guests and the bridal party. Placing small picnic blankets out, snacks and wedding games for guests to enjoy will encourage conversation and bonding between the families.

4. You can enjoy a wide range of delicious foods

There’s a reason they say ‘breakfast all day’. Everyone loves breakfast food, and there’s is such a variety to choose from. From a coffee bar to cereal stations and a hot breakfast buffet, the options are endless (and delicious!)

5. The decor will be easier to work with

Morning receptions are very versatile. You can go big with a glamorous affair or small and intimate, it’s all down to your own preference. Lighting won’t be an issue, and if you’re choosing to host your wedding outdoors you can make use of an abundance of greenery to decorate the venue. Breakfast wedding decor also tends to be much simpler and cleaner, and less is needed to brighten up the space.

Image: Pexels

In Fashion

10 alternatives to the classic necktie

November 28, 2019 No Comments

For most men, the classic necktie is a standard part of the wardrobe. You’ve worn them to school, to work, and to many a formal function. Now, however, your wedding day is approaching. The thought of wearing a tie is not exciting to you. Perhaps the tie doesn’t feel special enough, or maybe you just want to switch things up a bit.

Many may not be aware of the wide variety of neckwear available to choose from. A tie can easily be replaced. Have a look at this list of alternatives to the classic necktie.

No Tie

https://www.instagram.com/p/BmtQ9ayHbbY/

Bow Tie

https://www.instagram.com/p/B1a_E5thcwh/

The Ascot/Cravat

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

Collar Chain

https://www.instagram.com/p/B0e8yNblbwF/

Bolo Tie

https://www.instagram.com/p/B5PvABvBVrG/

Continental Tie

https://www.instagram.com/p/4kuiadHK7J/

Western Bow Tie

https://www.instagram.com/p/fWXwVSPWw9/

Neckerchief

https://www.instagram.com/p/B3ZHJV0BIDc/

Collar Clip

https://www.instagram.com/p/B2Zs_Z6iMC8/

Neck bow

https://www.instagram.com/p/BxC6ljSnX9z/

Image: Unsplash

In News

The Rock and Danny DeVito crash wedding in Mexico

November 26, 2019 No Comments

When people crash your wedding, it’s usually quite unexpected, and unexpected is never good on your wedding day. In fact, having wedding crashers can turn into a wedding day crisis; it is generally a dreaded occurrence. Nobody really wants their wedding to be crashed. Unless, of course, its being crashed by Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson and Danny DeVito.

Bride, Kristine, and groom, Will, were enjoying their lovely (but normal) wedding reception in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. The next thing they knew, their wedding was being crashed by Johnson and DeVito. The duo surprised the couple and their guests, not only by making an impromptu appearance, but also by performing a rendition of Nat King Cole’s “Unforgettable”.

Johnson and DeVito were in Mexico doing publicity for their movie, Jumanji: The Next Level. While the co-stars relaxed after a long week of press, they heard a wedding party going on. They then decided to crash the wedding.

‘The Rock’ posted a video to his Instagram, showing how it all went down.

https://www.instagram.com/tv/B5QZOE_Ftm7/

In his caption, ‘The Rock’ said, “I’ve never crashed a wedding, but with DeVito this was truly UNFORGETTABLE”.

He also made sure to congratulate the happy couple on their nuptials and on their beautiful family, calling them the “Brady Bunch”. Instagram users in the comment section were excited to see that this is what the duo had been up to and expressed themselves accordingly. @akbvalancius said “I would die” and @bslater9 said it was one of the best things he ever got to see in person. They also received many comments from multiple Instagrammers enquiring about whether the duo would be available to crash their respective weddings.

While this is not how a normal wedding crashing would go down, we think the couple and their guests were quite happy with the visit from their unexpected guests. Who wouldn’t be?! Having Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson and Danny DeVito crash your wedding is a once in a lifetime experience.

Image: Instagram/therock

In Accessories

Wedding flower trends for 2020

November 25, 2019 No Comments

Your long list of wedding planning to-do’s is slowly but surely shortening. The next item on your list happens to be flowers. The problem: there are so many choices and not enough time to give them all some consideration. On top of that, you’re not sure if you know enough about flowers to make a good choice.

Not to worry. Have a look at this list of wedding flower trends for 2020, to make your decisions and planning a little easier.

Bouquet Trends:

– Big and Bright

https://www.instagram.com/p/B429pi7A-DK/

Larger, brighter flowers are popping up more and more at weddings. Big flowers can make your bouquet look much fuller for less money. In addition to this, the bouquet becomes a statement in itself because it catches the eye and stands out. The bright colours do well to create excitement and bring out a more playful feeling, lightening the mood of the venue instantly.

– Unstructured and untamed

https://www.instagram.com/p/B3JoDvwn8I6/

For a push towards a more natural and lush look for wedding flowers, a trend seems to be growing around variety. Bouquets are looking less and less uniform, as if they have been effortlessly thrown together with not much consideration to having a pattern or multiples of the same flower. Many who have gone for this trend have added some greenery, dried grass, or foilage for a more boho feel.

– Blushes and bleached

https://www.instagram.com/p/B1cIqb0hdDd/

If you want something more understated or minimalistic, then this wedding flower trend is for you. The classic blush pink and white used at weddings can be upgraded and updated by adding some bleached tones and bleached foilage into the mix.

Decor trends:

– Arches/Moongates

https://www.instagram.com/p/B3247xThIrS/

A decorated arch, under which you say your vows, makes for beautiful photograph opportunities. The arch draws the attention of the attendees to the right place and ensures that the couple has all eyes on them.

– Flowers down the aisle

https://www.instagram.com/p/Ba9O3FUHdUQ/

Create a whimsical, fairytale feel by lining the aisle with flowers. This simple addition will do wonders for the ambience at your wedding.

Bonus Trend:

– Locally Sourced

This is one of the best wedding flower trends we’ve seen so far! Brides and grooms are opting for the more environmentally friendly option of locally sourced floral arrangements. Not only is this trend eco-friendly, but it is good for your budget too.

Image: Unsplash

In Guys

Groom showers: What, why, and how

November 21, 2019 No Comments

We can’t claim that groom showers are a new trend. We can, however, say that it is a trend that has seemingly slipped under the radar. Now, you may be wondering what a groom shower is, why you would want a groom shower, and how you should go about planning one. Not to worry, we’re here to give you the low down. A groom shower, or BRO-dal shower as we’ve seen it called, may be something you want to consider.

A groom shower, much like a bridal shower, is a celebration of the upcoming nuptials. It is an occasion for the groom to bring together all of his closest male friends and family. Guests bring gifts, there is food and drinks galore, and everyone simply comes for some good conversation and quality time with the groom-to-be before the wedding. This is much, much different to the bachelors party. It’s much more low-key and family friendly.

Family friendly is key here; it’s what makes this event appealing. Some of your older or more conservative relatives may want to have pre-wedding celebrations with you, but you probably don’t want to invite them to the bachelor party. You may also have younger relatives like nephews or young cousins who probably would love to celebrate with you too but for obvious reasons, they wouldn’t be allowed at the bachelor party. A groom shower is how you accommodate everybody and make sure that you’re celebrating with everyone who is important to you.

So, how do you plan this type of event?

It’s probably best to keep it simple. You’ll have a wide variety of guests, so anything too specific or outlandish might be difficult to pull off. Fill the table with some snacks, put some decorations up, and perhaps plan some party games. Just don’t forget to invite all the relevant people.

If you want something a bit more interactive or activity-based, here are some ideas:

– Sports

You could plan a sports match of some kind. Separate your guests into teams and have a soccer (or your preferred sport) tournament.

– A cookout

A beer and a conversation around a fire. A classic way to spend a relaxing day.

– Mini fishing trip

Well known for its facilitation of bonding, we think a day trip to catch some fish is a great option. This one may be a bit tougher to co-ordinate.

How ever you decide to spend the day, groom showers are a great way to include everybody in your celebrations. You may want to drop some hints to your groomsmen so they can get to organising.

Images: Unsplash

In Advice

Honeymoon destinations: Unique hotels around the world

November 20, 2019 No Comments

Tropical island hotels and exotic beach-side resorts are what most people would consider “common” honeymoon destinations. If you’re looking to escape from the norm and experience something totally different, then these unique hotels are perfect for you.

– Thorngrove Manor (Adelaide, Australia)

This hotel will make you feel like you’re living in a fairytale. The Manor has five unique rooms to choose from and provides day-trips to various tourist destinations. If you’re looking for a perfect romantic getaway, this is it.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B1YKUkTDsIX/

– Aman-i-Khás (Ranthambhore, India)

Go glamping at this stunning safari outpost. Not only will you have the unique experience of glamping in India, but you can also go on various adventures provided by the wildlife camp. Exploring by camel, visiting Ranthambhore’s old city, viewing ancient forts, and going on safari’s are but a few of the experiences on offer.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B1yKMNhHMMC/

– Hotel Yunak Evleri (Cappadocia, Turkey)

At this five star hotel, you’ll be snuggled up in a cave dug in the wall. The hotel is a combination of seven cave houses and 46 private cave rooms, all overlooking the Turkish Mesa. Yunak Evleri combines modernity with tradition to give you an exceptionally unique experience.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bg1bdT9lIbi/

– Giraffe Manor (Nairobi, Kenya)

Get up close and personal with the giraffes at Giraffe Manor. The boutique hotel is set in 12 acres of private land and boasts stunning interiors, gardens, terraces, and courtyards.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B0gl1axn2fk/

– The Stanley Hotel (Colorado, USA)

What could be more interesting than a haunted hotel? Not only is the Stanley Hotel an attraction because of its feature in the movie The Shining, but also because of the various paranormal experiences that guests have had there. There are a few rooms which have been noted as the most haunted. If you’re brave, and really want an out-of-the-box idea, this is the one for you.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B4EJyTaFnKY/

– Free Spirit Spheres (Qualicum Beach, Canada)

Have an environmentally friendly honeymoon in these eco-eggs hanging from trees! There are three different eggs you can choose from and everything you need is inside…except the toilets. The toilets are outside, but they are very elegant. Since the spheres are on an island, there are many other experiences on offer, such as kayaking, swimming, caving, and zip-lining.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BtbslT7BdCc/

Image: Pexels

In Advice

Simple tips for writing great wedding vows

November 19, 2019 No Comments

Writing wedding vows can be a daunting task. It can be overwhelming to attempt to sum up all the things that you want to say to your partner. The vows, which at the end of it only add up to a few minutes of talking, are a summary of the love you have for your partner, the promises you are making to them, and the hopes and dreams you have for your future together.

What makes this more difficult for many, is that it has to be done not only in front of your partner but also in front of all your guests.

We’ve compiled a list of tips to ensure that you’re writing the best wedding vows you can.

Things to say in your vows

– First, mention your own name and your partner’s name. There are probably many people in the audience staring at you; this could take away some of the intimacy of your vows. Emphasise the intimacy by adding something like, “I, Harry, take you, Sally.”

– Second, add some anecdotes and personal stories. The guests will enjoy listening to this, and your partner will enjoy the trip down memory lane.

– Third, make sure you’re saying meaningful things. Cute and funny stories will only get you so far. Say things that also show how serious you are about this commitment.

– This final one should be a no-brainer, but we know that the stress of vow writing can cause some forgetfulness so we’ll mention it just incase. Always say “I love you”.

Writing tips

– Do not, we repeat, do NOT write them at the last minute.

– Read through some samples of vows before you start writing. This may help you to work out what your tone should be and could give you some inspiration.

– Actually write your vows down. “I will remember them”, never works out.

– Cut out clichés and things that might embarrass your partner.

– Make sure your vows are not too long. Your audience may get fidgety.

– Get somebody to proofread it. An outside opinion always ensures improvements.

-Preparation tips

– Practice your vows. Say them out loud. Say them in the mirror. You’ll be nervous on the big day and the practice will ensure you’re familiar with what you want to say.

– Carry a written or typed copy of your vows with you. If you do end up stumbling on your words, this will be a great help.

– With all of these tips in mind, remember to also get creative and take into account the finer details and context of your relationship like Jimmy Gisondi, who wrote a set of vows not only for his bride, Kelsea, but also for his new step-daughter, Olivia.

In his separate vows to Olivia, he said “I promise to never treat you [like] anything less than my own child”. This thoughtful additional set of vows brought the crowd to tears.

Last but not least, don’t forget to add your personality. Your partner-to-be loves you for who you are, so staying true to yourself will make the vows unforgettable for them.

Image: Pexels

In Announcements

Here’s your chance to propose at Mzanzi Super league final

November 19, 2019 No Comments

Imagine winning a chance to make a grand gesture at no cost to you. Now you can. This year’s Mzansi Super League tournament is well underway, and the tournament organisers want to make the final match memorable for a special couple. One lucky person will be given a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to propose to his or her significant other at the final game on December 16, 2019.

Now in its second year, the Mzansi Super League aims to make cricket a truly national sport of winners. Cricket fans attending the Mzanzi Super league can witness some of the country’s top athletes in action while also enjoying numerous other activities such as colour tunnels, entertainment areas for kids, braai areas and cool-down pools, as well as chances to win spot prizes through the Lucky Bums competition.

The league is being held at six stadiums around the country, from Wanderers in Jozi, Supersport Park in Centurion and Boland Park in Paarl, to St George’s in Port Elizabeth, Kingsmead in Durban and Newlands in Cape Town.

Cricket lovers are encouraged to show their love by entering the Mzansi Super league competition. To stand a chance of being chosen to get down on bended knee, proposal hopefuls need to tell the story of how they met their significant other and why they want to propose at the Mzansi Super League final match. The best submission will get to propose live at the final game and win a bottle of champagne and hamper to celebrate their good news.

So, if you’re a sport lover and want to harness the thrill of a cricket final in front of a packed stadium to declare you love to your partner, then this is your chance. All you need to do is email your heartfelt submission to [email protected] by December 11 and the judges will do the rest.

Image: Unsplash

In Wedding Gowns

The Body Issue: Hourglass

November 18, 2019 No Comments

One size fits all? No! Not when it comes to your body shape.

Women come in all shapes and sizes and it’s so important to know your body type and shape to dress accordingly and accentuate your best features. There are many different body shapes and types, and each one is unique. To avoid your dress shopping experience being a stressful one, it’s important to know and stick to what works for your body.

It’s also important to remember that very few women fall into only one category as we can have different features from various body types. Why? Because we’re beautifully unique!

In this upcoming series, we’ll be looking at all the different body shapes and some gorgeous weddings gowns that will accentuate YOU perfectly.

Next up, is the hourglass shape.

For many years, women have called upon the aid of a corset to create the enviable hourglass silhouette, and it’s safe to say that this gorgeous body shape might just be the easiest to dress as well. Hourglass body shapes have it all – from being well-proportioned to having curves in all the right places, along with a distinct waist.

The goal of this shape would be to choose a gown that flatters and embraces your curves. You want to define your waist, highlight your neckline and make the most of showing off your bust and naturally cinched-in waist. A woman with an hourglass figure normally has shoulders, bust and hips that are similar in measurement and a narrow waist with the smallest measurement. The shape is feminine yet structured so something fitted will be your first go-to. So if you’re looking to show off those natural curves, the golden rule is to follow your body line!

Opt for a formfitting silhouette, like the fit and flare or the mermaid style gown:

The mermaid dress is the iconic figure-hugging silhouette. It’s sleek, sexy and fitted from the bust through to the hips, then dramatically fans out from the lower part of your thigh or just below the knee.
The fit and flare, or trumpet style, is a variation of the mermaid style that is fitted through the body and flares out from a higher point on the thigh, which gives the skirt a bit more volume. Both these figure-flaunting styles are romantic, elegant, glamorous and will accentuate your curves perfectly.

As with all silhouettes, you have the option of many different necklines, but if you’re slightly smaller on top, you’ll want to choose something that will highlight your shoulders and bust to balance it out – the boat neck, V-neck, scoop neck or sweetheart neckline are all perfect options. However, stay away from high necklines if your bust is bigger as it has the ability to make your bust look disproportionally large – empire style dresses will disguise your nipped waist.

If you want to downplay your curves slightly, choose a ballgown or a gown with an A-line skirt. This will still emphasize your narrowest part – simply add ruching or a belt detail to create a cinched-in waistline.

Get your inspiration here:

The Mermaid

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Fit & Flare:

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By Amy-lee Steenkamp

Feature image: Unsplash

In Engagements

Exceeding expectations: Amazing public marriage proposals

November 15, 2019 No Comments

You always expect your proposal story to be a great one. For some people, a great proposal story would be simple, quiet and intimate. Other people, however, prefer grand romantic gestures – the type that people never forget.

Going all out for a public proposal is no small task. A lot of planning and co-ordinating is required and there are many moving parts, not to mention all the factors you can’t control.

Check out this list of five outstanding public proposals.

-The Skyscraper

This is a large scale, high tech proposal if we’ve ever seen one. Marzo, the proposer, asked his girlfriend, Lisa, to marry him using the lights of a skyscraper!

It starts with Marzo filming Lisa as they go on an evening walk. Marzo then has Lisa answer a phone call; on the phone call she needs to say her name and say “Hi”. She does this and the phone cuts off.

The next thing she knows, the lights of a nearby skyscraper goes off. The lights then come back on spelling her name on the wall. They go off again, and the next time they flash the words “will you” brightly on the side of the building. The next two repetitions of this show the words “marry” and “me”.

This must have taken some crazy co-ordination skills!

– Written in the Sky

A man proposed to his girlfriend by writing it in the clouds. He hired a professional ‘skywriter’!

From the video, it seems he and his unsuspecting girlfriend were spending a lovely afternoon in Central Park, when suddenly the words appear in the sky. The girlfriend is sure to never forget this proposal.

– Like a movie scene

Matt put together an entire movie trailer to propose to his girlfriend, Ginny.

He enlisted the help of Ginny’s brother, Charlie, to take her to see a movie. They’re in the movie theatre and the trailers start to play. Ginny is a little confused when she hears Matt’s voice coming from the speakers. She is brought to tears by the trailer in which he asks her to marry him.

This one gets extra points for creativity!

– Puppies in the park

This one involves puppies! A man organised to have puppies walk by as he and his girlfriend sat on a bench in Central Park. Each puppy wore a customised vest with a sweet message like “I want u 4 ever”.

At first his girlfriend didn’t catch on, because the dog walkers were strangers. The third and final puppy’s vest read “will you marry me?”

His girlfriend didn’t believe it at first. We can’t blame her since it was April Fool’s Day! But when he got down on one knee, she knew it was real.

– Live Lip-dub

Isaac planned and co-ordinated an entire dance number, involving some of their closest family and friends, to propose to his girlfriend, Amy.

He asked Amy to meet him at his parents’ house. When she arrived, his brother was instructed to seat her in the back of a Honda and give her some headphones.

As she sat in the back of the slowly moving car, she watched a well co-ordinated lip-sync and dance number. The presence of all their loved ones must have made it so much more special!

Considering how difficult it can be to organise, these public proposals blew our minds!

Image: Pexels