Wedding ETC, Author at Wedding ETC

In Fashion

A quick guide to honeymoon swimwear

September 23, 2019 No Comments

Planning your wedding is definitely a stressful task, so the honeymoon might not even be an aspect you’re focused on right now, however, there is one additional task you will have to accomplish before racing off to you lush honeymoon – packing. And because swimwear will make up the most of your tropical honeymoon wardrobe, we’ve put together a quick guide:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Sunshine Vacations & Travel (@sunshinevacationskw) on Sep 13, 2019 at 5:52am PDT

If you’re headed to the tropics you will probably be living in your bathing suit and a cover-up, but dining at a restaurant or perhaps dancing or exploring may also be on the cards.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay (@fijimarriottresortmomibay) on Aug 20, 2019 at 9:17pm PDT

You’ll probably want to take at least two swimsuits. This way you can alternate them. To have even more options, look for mix and match bikini styles, so you can get four looks out of two suits. If you’re not a fan of bikinis, try a one-piece, which is perfect for lounging around, going for a dip, and can even double as a bodysuit! You’ll also want to pack a swimsuit that you’re comfortable with wearing in a spa.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Julie Hauptmann ?????? (@jules_cali) on Aug 26, 2019 at 7:28am PDT

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by The Beach Bride by Chic (@thebeachbride) on Jul 16, 2019 at 8:33am PDT

For the honeymoon activities other than lounging by the beach/pool, you will need a maxi dress or skirt that you can dress up or down. Cover-ups are a necessity as you can easily transition from the beach to dinner and drinks – think beautiful wraps or sarongs. The most important thing is that you feel comfortable, but this is also the perfect time to play around with those beautiful swimsuits that have been hiding in your closet!

By Larissa Vermeulen

Feature image: Unsplash

In uncategorized

The essential guide to wedding lingerie

September 20, 2019 No Comments

It’s what’s underneath that counts, especially on your big day. Lingerie and nightwear will play a bigger role in your big day than you might imagine, so we’ve put together the essential guide to choosing your wedding lingerie.

Your dress will pretty much determine which bridal lingerie you choose and it has to merge seamlessly with the fabric and style of your dress. Your wedding lingerie should flatter your figure, shouldn’t be visible and make your dress hang on your body as flawlessly as possible.

Seamless lingerie is always a winner. If your dress or pants are fitted through the hips and thighs, you’ll need to be a bit more careful with your selection to avoid the dreaded visible panty line. A seamless thong is always the safest bet because it hugs your body and is made to be virtually undetectable under clothing. It’s also important to consider the fabric – clingy materials like silk will show every single bow, seam, embroidery detail, and buckle, so be sure to look for super simple lingerie with minimal detailing. The hue of your lingerie is also very important – nude and beige are often the most practical hues for bridal lingerie because they’re least likely to show through under a white or ivory outfit.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Gina Gino (@ginagino_underwear) on Apr 26, 2019 at 3:53am PDT

If it’s really important to you to have a smooth, sculpted silhouette on your wedding day, you may want to look into shapewear. From high-waisted panties to bodysuits and slips, there are so many different kinds of pieces to choose from. Also, ensure that the shapewear you choose is comfortable. After all, you’ll be wearing it for hours at a time, and you should be able to breathe and move comfortably throughout the ceremony and reception so that you can fully enjoy the experience.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Homebodii (@homebodii) on Jun 3, 2019 at 3:24am PDT

Matching robes or sleepwear can make for amazing pre-wedding pictures and would be a nice little gift for your bridesmaids. Have them personalised to serve as a beautiful reminder for both you and your bridesmaids.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Claudia (@carmelatte) on Jun 7, 2019 at 8:08am PDT

Another important factor to consider is the straps (or lack thereof). If your wedding dress has sleeves and a simple neckline you’ll have a lot more options to choose from. If your dress has no straps, you might want to look into a strapless bra or low line corset which suits the neckline of your dress and provides adequate support.

Backless and low-back dresses and jumpsuits also pose some style challenges. Try a backless or low-back bra or bustier, or if you’re comfortable going bra-less, consider some nipple covers, pasties, or adhesive cups. Dresses with plunging necklines work better with an adjustable multi-way bra.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Nette Rose intimates (@nette_rose) on Aug 19, 2019 at 11:17pm PDT

The lingerie you choose for your wedding outfit may not be the sexiest or most exciting styles, so do take the time to slip into something extra special for the wedding night. Maybe try something like a seductive suspender set, a sensual bodysuit or romantic chemises to look and feel your best on your wedding night.

By Larissa Vermeulen

Feature image: Unsplash

In Advice

Old school songs you need in your wedding playlist

September 20, 2019 No Comments

Wedding receptions are the time to celebrate and rejoice the new marriage. They usually consist of food, tearful speeches, fun and dancing. When it comes to the dance floor, everyone knows great music makes the party. Here are a few old school songs you need in your wedding playlist:

50s

Fly Me to the Moon – Frank Sinatra (1954)

70s

Isn’t She Lovely – Stevie Wonder (1976)

Play That Funky Music – Wild Cherry (1976)

Stayin’ Alive – Bee Gees (1977)

Y.M.C.A – Village People (1978)

What you won’t do for love – Bobby Caldwell (1978)

Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough – Michael Jackson (1979)

80s

Celebration – Kool & The Gang (1980)

Just The Two Of Us – Grover Washington Jr. (1981)

Don’t Stop Believin’ – Journey (1981)

It’s Raining Men – The Weather Girls (1982)

True – Spandau Ballet (1983)

Girls Just Wanna Have Fun – Cyndi Lauper (1983)

Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go – Wham (1984)

Love song – The Cure (1989)

90s

End of the Road – Boyz II Men (1992)

Macarena – Los del Río (1993)

Wonderwall – Oasis (1995)

Gettin’ Jiggy With It – Will Smith (1998)

I Want It That Way – Backstreet Boys (1999)

Feature image: Unsplash

In Advice

How to pick a great wedding gift

September 20, 2019 No Comments

What do you get a couple that has everything? You may not get lucky and receive an invitation with a wedding gift registry or a request for monetary presents. If that is the case, here’s how to pick a great wedding gift:

Budget

Firstly, you should establish a budget. How much would you like to spend on a wedding gift? The amount you decide on will help with what you can get. For example, if you want to spend R500, you obviously wouldn’t look at high-end kitchen tools.

Relationship

How do you know the couple? Is it family, close friends, friends or co-workers? This is important because you’d put more effort into a gift if it was someone close to you.

Know the couple

What do they like? What do they do? For example, do they enjoy cooking, wine, camping, hiking, or traveling? Try to choose something that the couple can both use or do together.

Receipt

We were always told to take the price off a gift before giving it to someone because someone shouldn’t know how much you’ve spent on them. In this case, however, giving the gift along with the receipt is a great idea. For example, if you’ve bought something too small or perhaps the colour is wrong, they have the option of exchanging it.

Ask

You could just simply ask the couple what they’d like or need.

Have a look at these great wedding gift options.

For those who enjoy cooking or baking:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Charlotte Downs (@charlie_arts_) on Sep 18, 2019 at 11:54am PDT

Engraving a cookware item like a cutting board is something special and practical.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Nom Living (@nomliving) on Aug 27, 2019 at 12:15pm PDT

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Le Creuset (@lecreuset) on May 19, 2019 at 4:59pm PDT

Couples who love camping:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Jaime Holbert (@inkyideas) on Nov 19, 2018 at 10:13am PST

Cute camping items are a great option for those who enjoy the outdoors. Anything practical that they can use while camping is great.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Catherine (@creationzbycatherine) on Nov 27, 2017 at 3:09pm PST

Alchohol enthusiasts:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by NudeGlass (@nudeglass) on Jun 3, 2019 at 10:16am PDT

Don’t just get them normal glasses, opt for special sets. Glasses that will only be used for special occasions.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by MesmerizeD (@mesmerized_design) on Aug 28, 2019 at 7:33am PDT

Travel lovers:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Scratch Off Map DMap factory® (@dmapfactory) on Sep 18, 2019 at 12:34pm PDT

These scratch maps are really trendy but great too. The couple can look at the map and see all the places they’ve traveled together.

Decor

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by @dxx._graphic on Sep 6, 2019 at 8:39am PDT

Some couples take a lot of pride in their home and enjoy decorating it with beautiful items. You could always find a great addition to add to their coffee table or bookcase.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by A & B Antiques and Interiors (@abantiques) on Sep 14, 2019 at 2:48am PDT

Feature image: Unsplash

In Advice

How to tie a bow tie

September 20, 2019 No Comments

Bow ties are a classic option that will add the finishing touch to your wedding day outfit. As dashing as they are, the sophisticated embellishment is a bit tricky to pull off. If you’re unsure and want to pull off the tasteful look yourself, here’s how to tie a bow tie on your wedding day, or any other day you want to look extra dapper:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Bahamas Weddings on a Budget (@bahamasweddingsonabudget) on Apr 21, 2019 at 7:26pm PDT

Step by step

Choose a great bow tie

Black is a classic colour to choose but if your wedding vibe allows for it, consider opting for a funky colour, pattern or material.

Sizing

To ensure you get that dashing and sophisticated look, adjust the bow tie according to your neck size. Ask a sales assistant to measure your neck when purchasing a bow tie. There should be an adjustable slider or a hook and holes that will allow you to make the bow tie bigger or smaller.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by bubibubi ties (@bubibubi_ties) on Jun 18, 2019 at 10:12am PDT

How to tie

The most popular choice is the butterfly bow tie.

First place your bow tie around your neck facing up. Make sure that the right side is shorter than the left. Your left end is A and the right end is B.

Move A over to the right. It will be across from B. It should form an X shape.

Move A under B and bring it up through the neck loop.

You can now fold B towards the right and finally to the left, which will then create the bow shape.

The A side can now move straight down over the middle section (the bow shape)

A can be folded towards the chest.

Pinch the fold.

You need to push A through the loop behind B.

Finally, pull on the folded parts which will tighten it. Adjust the bow tie to be balanced on both sides.

View this post on Instagram

Who needs help with a bow tie?? @decerbosaurus thanks buddy! How to tie a bow tie #bowtie #formalwear #tie #mensfashion #menswear #howtotieabowtie

A post shared by AGW (@agwarnock) on May 18, 2019 at 11:09am PDT

Feature image: Unsplash

In Advice

How to clean your wedding dress after the big day

September 20, 2019 No Comments

Wedding dresses are one of the most spoken about elements of any wedding. After having such a big role in your big day, preserving the dress may be your decision. If you decide to store your dress, it may need a polish after a couple of years. Here’s how to clean your wedding dress after the big day, to keep it beautifully preserved and in tip-top condition.

Ask your sales consultant

When you purchase your wedding dress from a boutique, be sure to inquire about the cleaning. Your sales consultant should be able to advise on how to properly clean it. There may also be special instructions that come with the gown on how to clean it.

Sooner the better

If you do decide to store the dress, it’s very important to clean it before packing it away.

Dry cleaners

If you’d rather not chance it or perhaps don’t have the time, you could always look for a special dry cleaner. They should know how to clean the wedding gown and the specific materials used correctly.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Pearl & Birch (@pearlandbirch) on Oct 14, 2017 at 12:34pm PDT

Simple dresses

If your gown is made from simple materials and fabrics, you could clean it yourself – just be sure to do some research before attempting it.

Light

When your gown is drying, keep it away from natural and artificial light.

Know your fabric

If you decide to wash it yourself, know what type of fabric the dress is made of. Be aware of what type of embellishments are on the gown. Odds are, you can probably gently wash it by hand. Also, be aware that some fabrics can stretch when hung up, and because a wedding gown is particularly heavy, it’s best to let it dry while flat.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Wedding Dress Cleaning (@wedclean) on Aug 28, 2019 at 11:36am PDT

Spot clean

If your wedding gown is very detailed and large, you may have to opt for spot cleaning. This would involve pinpointing the stains and just cleaning those instead of the whole dress.

Whatever option you choose, just make sure you know what your wedding dress consists of and what it’s made of. Lastly, be gentle with your gown, especially if it’s big and consists of lots of detail (for example beads).

Feature image: Unsplash

In News

Indonesia may ban sex outside of marriage

September 20, 2019 No Comments

New criminal laws have been proposed in Indonesia, and means that citizens and tourists may face jail time or receive fines for engaging in pre-marital sex. The densely populated Islamic country believes that they must protect their citizens from behavior that ‘contradicts God’s word’.

If passed, the law states that sex may not take place outside of marriage which includes same-sex couples. It will also prohibit couples from living together before marriage and adultery will also become a criminal offense. The criminal code also includes jail time for women who have an abortion. The only time abortion is deemed permissible is if there was a medical emergency or the pregnant woman has been raped. Fines will be given to those promoting contraception to minors.

Parents, a child or a spouse can inform officials of the criminal offense. Jail time may range from six months to one year.

Blasphemy laws will also be tightened and insulting the president or vice president will be criminalised.

Same-sex marriage is not recognised in Indonesia. This means that the LGBTQIA+ community would be heavily affected if the law is passed. Even though homosexuality is not illegal in Indonesia, it is frowned upon. Their law does not protect the LGBTQIA+ community from discrimination and hate crimes.

The proposed criminal code has caused uproar among many. More than 300 000 people have signed a petition urging president Joko Widodo to not pass the law.

Australia has already updated their Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade website to warn their citizens about the possibility of the laws being passed. They have warned citizens and possible travelers of the new laws that may be passed.

Image: Unsplash

In Fashion

Bridal capes

September 20, 2019 No Comments

Bridal capes are a great option for brides that are looking for a little something extra and for those that are looking to break away from the norm. Bridal capes are elegant and very stylish plus they’re trending! Gain some inspiration from these tasteful bridal capes.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Emma Latham (@emsfreckles) on Sep 9, 2019 at 1:08pm PDT

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Reev [ r i : v ] Bridal (@reevbridal) on Sep 7, 2019 at 8:41pm PDT

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Les Merveilleuses (@lesmerveilleusesparis) on Sep 6, 2019 at 10:27am PDT

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Lulu Browns Bridal (@lulubrownsbridal) on Sep 5, 2019 at 4:42am PDT

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by TARYN BLAKE EVENTS ⚡️ (@tarynblakeevents) on Sep 4, 2019 at 3:47pm PDT

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Eliza Jane Howell (@elizajanehowell) on Sep 3, 2019 at 12:04pm PDT

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Alice & Mae Bridal (@alice_and_mae) on Sep 3, 2019 at 1:30pm PDT

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Abelina’s Boutique ✨ (@abelinasboutique) on Aug 21, 2019 at 11:04am PDT

As you can see bridal capes can come in various styles, lengths and materials. It’s your day to shine, so choose to embellish your bridal look with a fashion forward cape.

Feature image: Unsplash

In Celebs

Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters needs your help

September 19, 2019 No Comments

Former Miss Universe, Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters and her fiancé Tim Tebow have reached out to their followers for help. They’re struggling to come up with a wedding hashtag, so on September 17, 2019 the couple took to Instagram to explain their predicament:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters (@demileighnp) on Sep 17, 2019 at 8:59am PDT

They explained that they haven’t come up with any wedding hashtags and sarcastically joked that the search is going really well. “Please guys, don’t you have any ideas,” said Demi-Leigh.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Tim Tebow (@timtebow) on Aug 11, 2019 at 8:05am PDT

The pair have been together since her reign as Miss Universe in 2017. During her farewell at the 2018 Miss Universe, she thanked Tim for all his support. Tim got down on one knee on January 9, 2019 in Jacksonville, Florida.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters (@demileighnp) on Jan 10, 2019 at 11:24am PST

Their followers have come up with some creative hashtags so far. One follower suggested #TyingTheTebow, while another said #YouHadMeAtTebow.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Tim Tebow (@timtebow) on Sep 16, 2019 at 4:10pm PDT

Demi-Leigh celebrated her bachelorette party over the September 13-15, 2019 weekend. The bachelorette fun took place in New York.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters (@demileighnp) on Sep 16, 2019 at 7:14am PDT

She shared her bridal shower pictures on Instagram on August 15, 2019 as well:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters (@demileighnp) on Aug 15, 2019 at 4:56am PDT

The happy couple have not released their big day’s date, but with all the wedding festivities in full swing, it may be soon!

We wish Demi-Leigh and Tim all the best for their future!

Feature image: Facebook/Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters

In uncategorized

Step out in style with a pair of wedding kicks

September 19, 2019 No Comments

The fact of the matter is that not all women like wearing heels, some actually dread it. If you find yourself in this group, you definitely won’t want to be uncomfortable on your wedding day, knowing that you are going to spend the entire day on your feet. All you want to do is remember your special day and have fun! So why not step out in style with a pair of wedding kicks instead?

Sneakers are universally loved for adding a street-chic element to any outfit, but who’s to say that you cannot wear it on your wedding day? There is a wide range of unique sneakers for brides and grooms, but the one you pick will be entirely dependent on your style. You can keep it classic with white or you can be bold and add a pop of colour. Add playful touches with lace, embroidery, satin, embellishments or opt for a pair of espadrille sneakers that are a bit more quirky. Customize your sneakers with bows or rhinestones – the possibilities are endless!

Brides can also opt for wearing heels to their wedding ceremony and then switch to sneakers for the reception. Being comfortable while being yourself is the most important, so we’re here to serve you with some serious sneaker inspo:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Betches Brides (@betchesbrides) on May 29, 2019 at 7:02am PDT

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Shuz. (@shuzdesign) on May 2, 2019 at 10:53am PDT

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Melody Nelson (@melodynelsonbridal) on May 22, 2018 at 4:53am PDT

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Braut & Bräutigam Magazin (@brautmagazin) on Nov 13, 2018 at 4:01am PST

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Fräulein Fraulich (@fraeuleinfraulich) on Sep 7, 2019 at 4:23am PDT

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Wedding Essentials Magazine (@weddingessentialsph) on May 17, 2019 at 8:20pm PDT

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Back By Popular Demand (@atlantaconsignmentstores) on Sep 11, 2019 at 1:21pm PDT

By Amy-lee Steenkamp

Feature image: Unsplash