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    9 guidelines for father of the groom

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    The mother of the bride role comes with clear and concise instructions. So do the roles of father of the bride and maid of honour – but one of the most important, yet often overlooked roles, is that of the father of the groom.

    As times change, the duties allocated to the groom’s father have too, so if you’re unsure what to expect here are some unspoken guidelines.

    1. Suit up
    Possibly one of the most important duties of the groom’s father is that of suit selection. A son will often rely on his father to help pick out the perfect attire for his big day, give him a few tips and even make sure the tailor fit is just right.

    If the groom and groomsmen have an appointment for suit fittings the groom’s father should naturally attend as well and might be able to cash in on a discount along with the group.

    It is also important that you look the part for the big day so make sure you take your own fitting seriously.

    2. Offer to pay for wedding costs
    It’s no secret that weddings cost a pretty penny – one of the most important ways to be involved and supportive of your son’s commitment is to be financially supportive.

    Offer up whatever you can to go towards the big day and ask where budget is needed.

    3. Attend or host the rehearsal dinner
    It some traditions the groom’s parents host the rehearsal dinner. This is the perfect opportunity for the groom’s father to step up and take centre stage to coordinate the night. Keep in mind what your son’s interests are, make sure the rehearsal is something that reflects his personality.

    4. Help where you can
    When it comes to weddings, there are so many aspects to consider and things to be done. As a supportive and proactive father of the groom, it is your duty to help where you can. Ensure you don’t limit your helpfulness to any specific duties and try your best to be available if needed. If you have a particular expertise that might come in handy, don’t be shy to offer.

    5. Hang out with the boys
    When the morning of the wedding arrives, it’s the father of the groom’s duty to hang with the boys and provide extra emotional support before the big event.

    It’s important to supportive, positive and maybe even share a few funny stories about the groom’s childhood with his good friends to calm the nerves.

    Compliment your son on his wedding-day look and make him feel confident and ready to take to the alter. This is a special moment to give him some marital advice.

    6. Dance with the bride
    It may seem like a small feat but those father’s out there with two left feet may see this one as a challenge.

    The groom’s father is somewhat expected to prepare themselves for taking to the floor, especially when it comes to dancing with the bride.

    Join in on the celebrations and make sure you’re comfortable with a little slow dancing.

    7. Greet Guests
    It goes without saying the the father of the groom should be prepared to greet guests, especially in the receiving line.

    Don’t be shy and put on your best, most welcoming smile while tending to each person who has come to share the special day with the lucky couple.

    8. Enjoy
    You can’t attend such an important day without enjoying it. Make sure you spend your time at the wedding well and smile, dance, eat and be merry.

    9. Say a little something
    Last but certainly not least, prepare a speech to. It can often be a daunting task to put your thoughts on paper and especially to read them out to a room full of people, but this is your chance to rise above the nerves.

    Your speech does not have to be lengthly, in fact short and sweet is better.

    Make sure you put your heart into whatever you have to say, its not everyday that you get to share the first day of the rest of your child’s life with them and send them off with words that they will surely remember for years and years to come.

     

    Picture: Pixabay

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    In Wedding Gowns

    Wedding dresses to dip-dye for

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    When it comes to weddings, the small unique details make every moment memorable. There’s simply no better way to personalise your dress than by adding hand-dipped colour details.

    Artist Taylor Ann treats weddings dresses like canvases and creates amazing works of art that suit the exact style of each bride that dawns them.

    Taylor takes a blank dress and adds a touch of personality that not only makes the dress look like a designer piece but also helps to incorporate the specific style and favourite colours of each woman who wears them.

    “I’m just an Artist that wanted a wedding dress as colorful as my soul; then found out I wasn’t the only one.
    Custom Bridal Art Creations are now my specialty.”

    The dress that started it all was Taylor’s very own wedding dress. An image of her amazing Technicolor creation skyrocketed to fame being shared across social media and even featured in popular UK magazines.

    The idea of incorporating shocking colours into a wedding dress took the world by storm.

    What seemed as though it would be a once-off creation has turned into a booming business and brides all over the world are looking to have their dresses hand painted and dip-dyed.

    Now Taylor specialises in helping brides bring the colours of their soul out onto their dresses and she doesn’t spare any work to make sure they’re perfect.

    From sunsets to hand-painted flower details, the sky is the limit with this unique personalising technique.

    Each work Taylor creates is different from the one before and truly gives each bride a masterpiece to wear on their special day.

    Picture: Facebook

    https://www.taylorannart.com/shop

    https://www.instagram.com/taylorannart/

    https://www.facebook.com/TaylorAnnArt/

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    In Advice

    My favourite wedding moment

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    Wedding Etc asked a group of brides and grooms to share their best memories of their weddings … and whether there was anything they’d do differently.

    1. COMPLETE SURPRISE

    ‘The thing that I enjoyed most about my wedding was NOT the planning. I am blessed to have a fabulous mom who did everything for me, all based on three Instagram pictures I showed her when I got engaged. I walked into the venue on the day not knowing a thing – I was blown away and appreciated every little detail. I felt like it was done for and not by me, which only made me feel more special on my special day. It’s a cliché, but it was a fairy tale and I thoroughly enjoyed every single bit of it. Thank God for moms!’
    – Zakia

    2. LIKE A PRINCESS

    ‘Being all dressed up isn’t usually me. I’m normally a plain Jane, but on the day, I felt like a completely different person with all of the make-up, the jewellery and the dress – like a princess!’
    – Paashanta

    3. DREAM GOWN

    ‘My most memorable moment was when my father told me how proud he was of me. After that, he walked me down the aisle with the biggest smile on his face. We decided to have a small wedding, so my dress wasn’t anything glamorous. If I could turn back the hands of time, I would get my dream gown, regardless of how big or small the wedding was.’
    – Stephanie

    4. LOVE IN BRAZIL

    ‘We started dating in Rio while we were doing mission work for our church. A few months later, we got married. There with no notice, and we wouldn’t change a thing about our small, impromptu South American wedding. I would have preferred it if my husband hadn’t left his honeymoon packing for the last minute (making him late for our wedding), but at least we can laugh about it now.’
    – Verna

    5. CAUGHT ON CAMERA

    ‘I enjoyed how relaxed the atmosphere was, despite it being my wedding. We had a destination wedding, so our entire family was on this relaxed holiday buzz. It was so refreshing and it made everyone that much more present. If we could change one thing, it would probably be our video. We spent so much time, money and effort on the photographer that, come time and budget for the videographer, we were quite limited. Our video is beautiful and captures the memories, but seeing how professionally done it could have been, with the fantastic technology nowadays, we secretly want to redo ours!’
    – Hassan

    6. RAIN DANCE

    ‘We got married in late December, and in a rain-starved Western Cape, so we didn’t really think we needed to have a plan in case the skies opened up. Well, they did – our wedding day was the only day it rained that whole summer. It was a blessing in disguise, though, because our very small wedding party all ended up huddling under a garden umbrella together, drinking wine (and the odd shot of tequila), laughing, smiling and taking turns to dance in the rain. Weddings don’t always go to plan, but they often turn out better than you could’ve ever imagined.’
    – Andrea

    7. LAUGHING ALL THE WAY

    ‘The best part of my wedding day was how much fun I had. I expected it to be a stressful day, but that wasn’t the case at all. My husband and I laughed so much and we weren’t stressed at all. The only thing
    I regret is that we didn’t take enough photos and I wish we had planned a bit better when it came to time management.’
    – Yumna

    8. THE FIRST LOOK

    ‘The best part of my wedding day was when I saw my wife for the first time. She looked absolutely angelic. It was at that moment that I realised that I would be spending every day with the most beautiful woman in the world. I don’t think there’s anything I would change about that day.’
    – Rameez

    Image: Unsplash

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    In Advice

    Throw the best wedding ever in 7 simple steps

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    Want a truly unforgettable wedding day? Of course you do! Pull it all together and throw the best wedding ever with our simple 7-step guide.

    1. CONSIDER HIRING A WEDDING PLANNER

    Many couples set out thinking they can accomplish planning a wedding on their own. In the case of smaller weddings, this is definitely achievable, but if you have big plans for yours, hiring an experienced professional is the way to go. Other than having the benefit of them taking the reins and allowing you to really enjoy yourselves, wedding planners can customise specific packages according to your needs and budget, and recommend trusted vendors they have worked with in the past.

    2. TAKE TIME TO GREET ALL OF YOUR GUESTS

    Some of them will have travelled from far just to attend your wedding. Show them just how much you appreciate their presence by taking time to greet everyone. It doesn’t have to be all at once – spread the quality time throughout the evening so you get around to spending time with each person; whether it be a quick chat over a drink, visiting their table during dinner, or shaking it out later on the dance floor.

    3. SPEND 20 MINUTES JUST ENJOYING THE MOMENT

    It may seem like an obvious thing to do, but you’ll probably be so wrapped up in other aspects of the wedding that you may even forget to just take a deep breath, relax and live in the present moment. Set aside a few minutes to tell your spouse how much you appreciate them and how you’re looking forward to experiencing this next chapter of your lives together.

    4. CREATE CHARGING STATIONS

    We’re sure you don’t want your guests glued to their phones the entire night, but having a few plug points with chargers available in well-placed areas is a nice (not to mention modern) way to show your guests you care. This will also encourage them to capture some pics for Instagram, so be sure to put up a sign nearby with your wedding hashtag if you have one.

    5. HAVE AN MC

    While it may seem unnecessarily formal, choosing a family member or friend with a commanding voice to be the master of ceremonies on the day will come in handy for announcements or gathering people for group photos. Try to keep speeches to a minimum to maximise dining and social time.

    6. ASK FOR SONG REQUESTS

    A great way to make sure your guests are grooving it up on the dance floor until the early hours is to ask them for song ideas. Lock down the ones that are most special to you and your partner first, but pepper the big day with submissions from your friends and family. Ask them to RSVP with their top pick, or allow them to ask the DJ to play their favourite tracks on the day.

    7. SERVE LATE-NIGHT SNACKS

    If you plan to extend the wedding festivities late into the night, you may want to cater for those still standing. The last thing you want is for your guests to go home hungry, so hire a food truck to dish out midnight snacks, such as boerie rolls, popcorn cones and gourmet sliders, or simply order a few pizzas for the really ravenous. A coffee stand is also a great option – guests will be grateful for a warming pick-me up.

    Picture: Unsplash

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    How to decide who gets an invite to your wedding

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    In terms of wedding decisions, choosing who will – and won’t – be getting an invite to your big day is right up there with the date and the dress. Unless you’re in a position to cater for 500 of your closest acquaintances, you’re going to have to be selective. So … who makes the cut?

    START WITH WHAT YOU KNOW

    Ultimately, the maximum number of invitations you send out depends on your budget and the size of your venue. Once you know how many guests you can afford or accommodate, you can start tailoring the guest list to match.

    DON’T PLAY A NUMBERS GAME

    A 50-50 split between you and your fiancé sounds logical, but don’t be constrained by ratios. You’ll definitely have some friendships that overlap. Plus, if one of you has a smaller family, there’s no point filling that ‘side’ with nice-to-have acquaintances while the other person has to tell a beloved uncle that there’s just no more room.

    BUSINESS AND PLEASURE

    It’s a reality that you spend as much time with your colleagues as you do with your fiancé. But do you want them at your wedding? Do you ever socialise with them other than after-work drinks? Do your topics of conversation start and end with bashing that annoying client? Have they met your husband- or wife-to-be? Do you see them still being in your life if you changed jobs? Be tactful in inviting those who do pass muster by keeping wedding office chatter to a minimum.

    ‘YOU REMEMBER AUNT SANDRA…’

    Family is where you’re likely to run into trouble; it’s a mire of obligation and potential for someone to take offence. This is where blanket rules become handy. For example, not inviting family members you haven’t seen in years, or who haven’t met your fiancé. Sticking to rules leaves little room for those who don’t make the list to complain.

    IT’S MY PARTY

    Your parents and future in-laws may expect to have a say in the guest list, especially if they’re helping to pay for it. They may want to invite friends who watched you grow up – or maybe just want to show off to the Joneses across the street. Allocate the parents an equal number of guest suggestions, but let them know the final decision rests with you. And stick to your guns – the only people you should invite are those you couldn’t imagine celebrating it without.

    A LESSON IN BEING RUTHLESS

    1.  ‘My number-one rule was that I wouldn’t meet anyone for the first time on my wedding day,’ says Storm Wilkinson, who put a ring on it in 2013. ‘I’m sorry if you’ve been dating for “like a million years” – I don’t know them, they’re not coming. Budgets are a harsh reality.’
    2. Once you’ve worked out a per-head cost, apply it to any guests you’re on the fence about. If spending that figure on that person makes you go: ‘Pffft,’ take their name off the list.
    3. Avoid fake-smiling on your wedding day. ‘You don’t want to have anyone at your wedding that you have to pretend to be happy to see,’ says Aleisha McCormack, host of The Bridechilla podcast. ‘Ditch them.’

    Image: Unsplash

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    In Destination

    You’ll be spoiled for choice on your honeymoon at Sabi Sands Game Reserve

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    Known as one of the most famous private game reserves and neighbour to South Africa’s crown jewel the Kruger National Park, Sabi Sands Game Reserve offers guests a safari experience like no other in the world. Enjoy your chance to see the Big Five, luxurious accommodation to suit any taste, spectacular views and bird watching galore.

    Sabi Sands Game Reserve was previously agricultural land. Due to all the cattle that appeared in the area, there was a great need for a reliable water source on the farms. In order for this water to be provided, boreholes had to be drilled to ensure that there was a steady supply of water. Years after Sabi Sands Game Reserve was established, all the boreholes that were drilled are still in perfect working condition. They now provide not only the cattle on surrounding farms with water but also all the wildlife on the game reserve, making Sabi Sands a prevalent place for great herds of animals.

    Sabi Sands Game Reserve is home to many different lodges that all have something unique to offer. Some are luxurious, while others are simplistic and very affordable. The best part about Sabi Sands accommodation rates is the fact that all meals and safari activities are included.

    Chitwa Chitwa Lodge

    The style of the lodge is art inspired with a fusion of African tradition and culture. The largest Sabi Sands lakes are in perfect view upon staying at the Chitwa Chitwa lodge. Its design encompasses a large amount of space and cosy camping grounds, which reflects a sophisticated and serene atmosphere. It includes eight suites each with its own plunge pool.

    Ulusaba Game Reserve

    The reserve includes breathtaking views of soothing greenery such as hills and trees. Ulusaba Private Game Reserve is a member of Virgin Limited Edition’s award-winning compilation of retreats.

    Notten’s Bush Camp

    The lodge is elegant and tranquil.  Notten’s is one of the original family-run lodges in Africa, and is undoubtedly a gem within the Sabi Sands Game Reserve. Being one of the original lodges on the reserve, its atmosphere is magical and offers a unique African safari experience.

    Lion Sands Game Reserve

    Filled with serenity, the award-winning Lion Sands is the only private reserve to have access to the perennial Sabie River, which it shares with Kruger National Park. You will find five beautiful lodges here, so there’s always one that will suit your taste!

    Sabi Sabi Game Reserve

    Sabi Sabi focuses on the present, past and future. Within the Sabi Sands, Sabi Sabi comprises three gorgeous themed camps: yesterday’s colonial romance, today’s classic bush experience, and tomorrow’s African renaissance.

    Singita Sabi Sands Lodges

    Private and conservative, Singita’s guests have the opportunity to explore and experience this amazing part of Africa. It includes 45 000 acres and leopard sightings are a regular experience.

    Dulini Game Reserve

    The Dulini Game Reserve has some of the most amazing lodges such as Dulini River Lodge, Leadwood Lodge and Dulini Lodge, each providing its own form and taste of luxury in a rugged bushveld setting.

    Elephant Plains Lodge

    Elephant Plains Lodge offers guests a comfy and stylish stay with reasonably priced luxury. This is a family-owned lodge and can accommodate up to 24 guests at a time.

    Arathusa Safari Lodge

    The lodge depicts a classic lakeside safari.  Arathusa is the place to try out if you’re looking for an affordable wildlife and safari experience in a traditional camping site. The chalets at this lodge have amazing lakeside views, which allow you to grab a chair and watch some of the game right where you stay.

    Leopard Hills Lodge

    Filled with hilltop grandeur, at this lodge you can expect to see breathtaking views of the African bush. It offers eight luxury suits and the best safari stay, where you are able to relax in your personal swimming pool and watch the sunset from your bedroom.

    & Beyond Kirkman’s Kamp

    This lodge is known to be a well-known historic camping site that was originally built in the 1920s. It exudes feelings of luxury in an early rural living space, with a touch of classic style and an ambience like no other.

    Nkorho Bush Lodge

    The lodge is stylish yet modest. This lodge can accommodate 12 guests in stylish thatched-roof chalets, offering guests the attention they require. With en suite bathrooms and spacious rooms, who wouldn’t want to stay here?

    Londolozi Game Reserve

    Londolozi is one of the groundbreaking Private Game Reserves of the ecotourism commerce in South Africa and is family-run, with the option of five chalets to choose from.

    Savanna Game Lodge

    Classic with touches of semi-tented Savannah, this lodge is an old time favourite and a true South African lodge. Situated in perfect view of the Big Five at just about any point of the day, it’s definitely a lodge loved by guests.

    Idube Game Lodge

    This lodge offers an affordable African Safari. Idube Game Lodge is family-owned and located in a crucial game area. An array of animals can be seen close to the lodge daily, with suites that include their own private deck, making them great for guests to view the wildlife.

    Inyati Safari Lodge

    Inyati Game Lodge is located right on the banks of the Sand River, offering the most amazing views. Recently all of its chalets were refurbished offering a luxurious stay.

    Silvan Safari Lodge

    The Silvan safari lodge depicts a deep love and understanding for Africa; these are the main elements that characterise the story of Silvan Safari Lodge. If you need your spirit to be uplifted and fall in love with Africa, this is the place to be.

    Cheetah Plains Lodge

    Soulful and affordable with beautiful ethnic designs and eight luxury rooms, the Cheetah Plains Lodge offers an experience like no other, with amazing service. If you’re looking to experience a raw African safari, this is the perfect place for you.

    Umkumble Safari Lodge

    Umkumble Safari Lodge promises guests a personal rustic and real safari experience, with six affordable lodges in view of the Sand River.

    Mala Game Reserve

    With years of experience in service, Mala Game Reserve offers some of the finest safari experiences. Guests are able to relax in a peaceful and scenic environment that is both stylish and elegant.

    Simbambili Game Lodge

    Simbambili Game Lodge is the perfect lodge themed around Moroccan simplicity and sophistication. Its one of a kind views like no other.

    For more information, visit sabi-sands.com

    Images: sabi-sands.com & Pinterest

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    In Destination

    Top 10 things for couples to do in The Seychelles

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    Over the past few years, The Seychelles have become a major romantic travel destination trend for couples. With breathtaking scenic views and a dreamy to-do list, what couple wouldn’t want to honeymoon there?

    1. COUPLE’S SPA TREATMENT

    Anyone heading out on a romantic getaway would love to be relaxed and enjoy the beauty of their destination. In The Seychelles, a spa treatment should definitely be on your to-do list. Banyan Tree Luxury Spa offers their guests the very best. This is the perfect place for couples to enjoy a spiritual, mental and physical renewal. This spa offers a range of traditional Eastern healing therapies, as well as an exotic combination of ancient health and beauty practices.

    2. SIP CHAMPAGNE ON THE BEACH AND WATCH THE SUNSET

    What couple wouldn’t enjoy some downtime with a glass of bubbly? A full pamper session is offered to couples while relaxing on the beach, enjoying one another’s company and watching the sunset. MAIA Luxury Resort and Spa offers this luxurious royalty treatment giving couples the option of hiring their own personal butler 24/7. Every villa in this resort has its own sundeck, swimming pool and outdoor gazebo, for partners wanting to spend some quality time together outdoors.

    3. VISIT THE BOTANICAL GARDEN

    Feeling adventurous? The botanical garden is the perfect place to explore with your loved one, while being charmed by the collection of plants and trees, the tortoise park and the rainforest walk. The garden was established in 1901 by Queen Victoria and is more than 100 years old, but still holds all its scenic beauty.

    4. A DAY TOUR TO PRASLIN AND LA DIGUE

    La Digue is one of many islands in The Seychelles. On this particular island you and your partner can enjoy the day on a romantic bicycle ride all along the island. Take a refreshing swim in the Anse Source D’Argent and later enjoy a delicious meal at La Do-maine. A guided tour to the neighbouring island of Praslin should also be on the to-do list to sightsee the beautiful Valleee de Mai where Coco-de-Mer grows. The site is known to be a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has been compared to the legendary Garden of Eden.

    5. A CANDLELIT DINNER ON THE BEACH

    One of the best most affordable beaches of this kind is in Mahe, the Beau Vallon Beach. A reservation for two can be made at Hotel Coral Strand Smart Choice where a stunning candlelit dinner can be enjoyed, while looking at a perfect sea view. So book early and have the most romantic candlelit dinner by the sound of the roaring waves of the ocean.

    6. STROLL DOWN THE VICTORIA STREETS

    If you need to let your hair down and need a peaceful break from your usual city life, take a lovely walk with your partner down the Victoria Streets. There’s plenty to buy so pick up a small memento to remember the amazing time you’ve spent with your partner in The Seychelles.

    7. SNORKELLING IN PARADISE

    Whether you and your partner love swimming or not, snorkeling is one of many things that you definitely shouldn’t miss. The tides are calm and the water is clear blue, offering you the perfect view of the colourful fish and unique coral reefs. If you and your partner are not up for swimming, canoeing is an option too.

    8. FISHING

    Fishing may not be your cup of tea, but it’s definitely something fun you could do in The Seychelles. The island is used by international sporting and recreational fishermen who come back each year to break records. The island has an array of fish in its fresh blue waters. It’s always fun trying something new and this is definitely something you and your partner could enjoy.

    9. WETLAND TOURS

    Every Tuesday and Thursday in  The Seychelles wetland tours take place with the Wildlife Conservation Center for guests to discover the local flora and fauna. It is said to be the largest managed freshwater wetland on Mahe. Learn about different species and get the opportunity to see these nature at its best with your own eyes.

    10. ZIPLINE THROUGH THE FORESTS

    If you and your partner are adrenaline junkies, get strapped to a harness and glide over the beautiful forest at Epheila Resort. Tour guides will tell you everything you need to know about various birds, plants and insects that you may see around you. If you need to cool down after the adrenaline rush, your tour guide can direct you to Port Launay Marine National Park, where you can enjoy its lovely blue waters.

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    In Fashion

    5 autumnal bridal looks we can’t get enough of

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    With golden leaves and a slight chill in the air, autumn is here and so are the fall bridal make-up trends of 2019! This year there’s a fun mix of colour bold designs, while some looks are heading to back to simple glamour. Find your perfect autumn look with our top five picks.

    1. VAMPIRE GLAM

    A dark lip is a perfect look for all skin tones. Keeping the eyes light and naturally creates a gorgeous contrast effect that will leave you glowing. Go for a dark cherry or blackberry shade for a rich shade of red.

    2. ALL BLACK

    This isn’t your average smoky eye. The all-black eye look really embraces the cool and darker tones associated with the coming of winter and lets your eyes stand out. Pair this with a light and natural lip to balance out the boldness of the make-up.

    3. METAL MAGIC

    Will we ever stop loving metallic shades? Not when these shimmery looks keep coming back as top contenders in all aspects of the wedding day. Dazzle your eyes with rich shades of shimmering orange and gold to mimic the fallen leaves of autumn for your bridal make-up.

    4. BOLD EYES AND DEWY LIPS

    Graphic designs have added an artistic touch to bridal glam, with fine line work, extended cat eyes and pops of colour. Match this look with some dewy lips to perfectly complement the light and minimal feel.

    5. ALL THAT SPARKLES

    Imagine the glitter on your eyes as little snowflakes falling on your face and you have a stunning magical wintery look. But don’t just stop at your eyes, bring the glitter down along your cheekbone for some added highlight and a more whimsical style.

    Images: Pinterest

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    In Venues

    Our 5 favourite winter wedding spots in South Africa

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    Is there anything quite as dreamy as a winter wedding? Crisp white and bold, rich shades come together to create a stunning celebration, usually with a backdrop romantically draped in mist. Because of South Africa’s diverse climate, winter is different everywhere, with famous sunny days hitting Johannesburg, intense rains in Cape Town, and humid temperatures in Durban.

    You’ll find something different everywhere you go, but one thing is for sure – you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to the rich variety of destinations. Take your pick from our 5 favourite locations below.

    1. Magaliesburg, Gauteng

    This small village lies just below the Witswatersrand mountain range and is filled with natural bushveld and such a variety to experience. The exclusivity of this stunning escape has made it a popular destination for many and, being just a short distance away from Johannesburg and Pretoria, now a winter wedding destination. A host of lodges, hotels, farms and more await you and your big day.

    2. Franschhoek, Western Cape

    The rich and expansive mountainscape of Cape Town’s Franschhoek makes this area a magical and misty forest during winter. And with such a wide range of wine farms in the area, you definitely won’t be short for venues and dreamy destinations to escape to for your big day and honeymoon.

    3. The Midlands, KwaZulu-Natal

    There’s nothing quite like the Midlands Meander in South Africa. With stunning cascading landscapes, dams and an abundance of greenery, this setting makes a perfect backdrop to a mystical winter wedding. The small towns that make up the area offer farmlands, lodges, hotels and more just waiting for you to say your ‘I dos’!

    4. Clarens, Free State

    Celebrate your love up in the clouds in the town of Clarens, with its famous landmarks and rich culture. Known for their colourful blooms in autumn, it’s the perfect opportunity to host your wedding among the flowers in a winter wonderland that will have your guests in awe.

    5. Dullstroom, Mpumalanga

    Prepare for the ultimate country wedding in Dullstroom. Its lush and green farms create a romantic setting in cooler months, sprinkled with mist and rain. Take advantage of the luxury stays nearby for your venue, while you discover the local heritage and find the perfect spot for wedding pictures. You can’t beat the view of an icy lake while warming up by a fireplace!

    Image: Pinterest

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    In Advice

    Beauty checklist for your honeymoon

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    Whether you and your SO are heading for a destination honeymoon or staying local, we’re here to guide you into packing the beauty essentials you need, no matter the weather.

    SUNSCREEN

    Regardless of where you’re heading, this should be the first beauty item you pack. The intensity of the sun and the effect it will have on your skin can differ from what you’re used to at home. Make sure you pack a broad spectrum formula to make sure you’re covered, no matter the conditions.

    WATERPROOF MAKE-UP

    If you’re headed to the tropics and know you’ll need a little bit of extra help, rather opt for waterproof make-up to avoid ending up with panda eyes while you’re lounging poolside. Waterproof mascara, foundation and/or concealer and a light brown eyeliner that can double as a brow pencil are you make-up bag staples.

    LIPS

    While you’re sipping on cocktails and taking those perfect selfies, you want your lips to look rosy and healthy. Use a lip balm with an added SPF that will leave your lips hydrated and healthy, with an easy touch-up application. There’s nothing worse than uncomfortably dry and chapped lips while you’re on holiday so make sure they stay kiss-worthy and worry-free. Add a striking lipstick for dinner, and voila!

    MULTI-TASKERS

    If you’re leaning towards natural make-up looks that require minimal effort, try to pack products that have multiple functions. For example, a lip stain that doubles as a cheek stain (this also has maximum staying power), a clear mascara that doubles as a brow gel, and a shimmery bronzer that you can also use as an eyeshadow. Also look for eyeshadow and blusher/bronzer/highlighter palettes with versatile shades instead of having to pack multiple shades individually.

    TRAVEL FRAGRANCE

    Most reputable brands offer travel-sized fragrances, which makes going through customs a breeze. Buy one in your everyday signature fragrance, or in your wedding fragrance, to keep you smelling pretty all day. And don’t forget your deodorant!

    SKIN SAVERS

    Be ready for any skin emergency (sunburn, dehydration or blemishes) with a mask suitable to those specific needs. Sheet masks are oh-so-handy and lightweight when it comes to packing. Keep a hydrating or brightening mask in your carry-on for the plane, and purifying and soothing option for the remainder of your trip.

    HAIR

    Natural beach waves are one thing, but keeping your hair from looking brittle is another. The same goes for snowier conditions. Humid or dry air can be damaging, so take a treatment or oil with you to treat your hair after washing it. Even better, use a moisturising treatment that can double as a styling product without having to use heat on your hair. No damage involved!

    OILS

    From head to toe, you can find a suitable oil to soothe, treat and nourish your skin, and to get your glow on all at the same time. A versatile oil (especially a dry oil such as rosehip) can treat a multitude of issues you might have. Coconut oil is another all-rounder when it comes to moisturising and can even be used as shaving lotion and make-up remover if you’re in a pickle.

    Photography: pinterest.com

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