Wedding ETC, Author at Wedding ETC

In Advice

Get ‘Honeymoon Ready’ In 5 Easy Steps

March 7, 2019 No Comments

With all the planning and excitement around the wedding, there’s little room to prepare to ensure you are fully honeymoon ready! Even if you’ve arranged for your honeymoon to take place a few days/weeks after the big day, there’s no doubt that you’ll be exhausted and ready to pack up and go. And besides, who wants to go back to work after such an incredible high?

Having your honeymoon straight after your big day will let you ease into married life and give you the rest you need after months of preparation. Yet, this can make it difficult to find time to prepare for your vacay. Luckily, we have 5 simple steps to help you through your prep and packing!

STEP 1

First things first, ensure that everything is booked and set for your departure and arrival, including the flights, car hire, hotel, etc. Print all your booking confirmations and keep them in a travel wallet so that you have everything on hand should your cellular device fail you. You can also keep your passport, bank cards and any other important documents with this.

STEP 2

Next, it’s time to get everything you’ll be taking with you together. It’s important to take into consideration the weather of your honeymoon destination and the activities you’ll be doing when packing your clothes. Check up on the weather a week beforehand so that you know what you’re in for. Remember that it’s better to have more options rather than too little, and you can’t bank on finding what you need at the location you intend on travelling to. As a general rule, make sure you have enough clothes for warm and cool weather.

STEP 3

As mentioned above, you can’t expect that your destination will have everything you need, so make sure to include any personal items such as hygiene products and medication, as well as your absolute daily essentials, in your travel bag. That being said, it won’t hurt to do a bit of research into what your accommodation will offer in the room so that you can save on a few items such as towels, a hairdryer, soap, etc. Medication is an absolute must-have, especially if you have a chronic condition or intend on travelling long distances.

STEP 4

This is where you factor in any extra items that you would like to bring, for instance, you may want to invest in a disposable or Polaroid camera to capture all your fun and special moments. Travel accessories, a journal, special outfits for the trip (hint, hint) are fun extras to consider when packing.

STEP 5

Finally, it’s important that before you leave, make all the contact details for your accommodation as well as any other important information available to family members or close friends in case of an emergency on your trip.

Time to get packing!

Image: Unsplash

In Weddings

Real wedding: Braai in style with Jana & MC

March 1, 2019 No Comments

Combining her love of luxury with his passion for South African cuisine, Jana van der Spuy and MC Leonard’s wedding featured the best of both worlds.

THE VENUE

Our venue, Cabrières, was a dream come true! Not only was it the views that sealed the deal, but it was the lovely Jane Jordaan who kept us there. The venue was chic enough for me and down-to-earth enough for my husband.

THE THEME

We didn’t really have a theme, however, we tried to incorporate both our passions – style and luxury, with comfort and a braai! We wanted our wedding to really represent us as a couple, and I think we completely nailed it.

THE DRESSES

Both of my incredible dresses were made by Cindy Bam, who happens to be one of my best friends, so I may be slightly biased! I can’t imagine anyone else making my dream wedding dress come to life the way she did. As my traditional wedding dress was quite dramatic, we opted for a very simple silk-chiffon tattoo-lace dress for the reception party.

THE DECOR

Our wedding decor was mostly inspired by the less-is-more look, with lots of candles in gold candlesticks and home-made pink flower candle holders. Each table setting had a personalised handwritten letter with an accompanying menu and napkin. At the venue entrance, guests were greeted to 1.5m candelabras and a huge flower bouquet.

THE FOOD

We both have a slight obsession with braaiing, so our canapés, which were plankie–steak, mini roosterkoek and chicken kebabs, were made in this way and served alongside salad. Our main meal consisted of lamb roulade filled with spinach, feta and mushrooms, and roast veggies, a green salad and pumpkin fritters.

THE DETAILS

My dad passed away just before my 16th birthday and, for obvious reasons, walking down the aisle was quite a heart-wrenching idea for me. However, my mom walked me down the aisle with my dad there in spirit – my sister-in-law, Laurika, gave me a locket with a picture of my dad to tie around my bouquet. Other than my wedding band, it’s one of my most treasured gifts, and when I have a tough day, I wear it around my neck for support.

THE FIRST DANCE

We opened the dance floor with ‘I Love You Will Still Sound The Same’ by Oh Honey. It was a challenge for us to decide on a song that we both loved and that could stand the test of time. We bought confetti cannons and asked two of our friends to pop them for us during the dance.

LITTLE BLACK BOOK

Dresses: Cindy Bam
Hair: Carma Hair Studio
Rings: Black Key Diamonds
Flowers: Christa Chambers and Jane Jordaan at Detail Me Pretty
Decor & stationery: IC Graphix
Lighting: Best Event
Venue & catering: Cabrières
Audio-visual & DJ: Prime Audio
Photography: Duane Smith Photography
Videography: MW Productions
Hiring: Functions4U and Detail Me Pretty

In Planning

10 not-so-obvious first dance songs

February 28, 2019 No Comments

Weddings are all about celebration and coming together. But most of all, weddings are about love. Finding all of these elements in one song that you and your partner both enjoy is no easy feat, which is why we tend to fall back on old wedding classics (or every single Ed Sheeran song). While there is absolutely nothing wrong with this, it’s important to remember the tune you pick will hold memories that last a lifetime, and to hear your wedding song blasted on the radio for months on end can be a bit – well – annoying.

If you really want to opt for a wedding classic for your song, consider using a cover or having someone perform the track on the day for a more personal experience. But for those who prefer something out of the ordinary, see our top 10 picks of wedding songs for the alternative couple.

1. Issues – Julia Michaels

2. Magic – Coldplay

3. Home – Edward Sharpe & the Magnetic Zeros

4. I Will Follow You Into The Dark – Death Cab For Cutie

5. Mango Tree by Angus & Julia Stone

6. I Would Do Anything For You – Foster The People

7. How Long Will I Love You – Ellie Goulding

8. Video Games – Lana Del Rey

9. Make You Feel My Love – Adele

10. Better Together – Jack Johnson

Picture: Pixabay

In Decor

4 amazing DIY wedding decor ideas

February 27, 2019 No Comments

With more and more brides opting for a budget-friendly wedding, DIY wedding decor has been (and will always be) trending. Putting together an elegant wedding with stunning decor shouldn’t break the bank or put a hole in your pocket. In most cases the way you envisioned the decor for your big day makes you realise that some ideas and dreams can’t be bought, so why not do it yourself?

1. WINE CORK SEATING CHART

Ebriderides wants their dream wedding to be unique in its own way. Instead of paying someone to compile your seating chart using expensive materials, try collecting all your wine bottle corks and put them to good use.

2. HAND-PAINTED BALLOONS

Who said balloons are only meant for birthday parties? Balloons have taken the wedding world by storm. Brides are now opting to have wedding balloons as a part of their ceremonies and receptions. Instead of buying all the fancy balloons you see online, simply purchase the balloons of your choice, and make them unique with some hand-crafted paint and stencils for a minimalistic decor feel.

3. LIGHT BULB FLORAL ARRANGEMENTS

Floral arrangements tend to be quite pricey. Keep all your blown light bulbs, remove the inside elements and give them a good wash. Hang them up in your reception area and add some small blooms. This look really brings some out-of-this-world elegance to any area.

4. WHEELBARROW DRINKS COOLER

Serving drinks at your wedding reception doesn’t need to be a nightmare. If your reception area is outside, make use of a wheelbarrow for guests to grab a cold one. Simply clean it out, add some ice and fill it with some beers and coolers. It’s great to avoid the long queues at the bar and an easy grab-and-go for your guests to enjoy.

Images: Pinterest

In Decor

Top trending wedding decor for 2019

February 21, 2019 No Comments

For 2019, brides all around the globe are setting some new trends when it comes to decor by simply going back to the basics. Instead of lavish and expensive decor, they’re settling for a more chic, elegant and stunning look and feel for their big day.

1. CANDLES

Although candles may seem like a cliché decor element to add to your wedding day, they are definitely trending this year. Candles give off an amazing vibe and setting to any wedding venue. With many styles, scents and looks to choose from, they fit just about any theme and setting. But of all the types out there, taper candles are winning this year.

Even though they may seem a bit old school, taper candles have the power to elevate your wedding setting without any effort, and their elegance speaks for itself. They’ll make your table setting feel expensive and luxurious without you actually having to break the bank.

2. LUXURIOUS FABRICS

Fabulous fabrics and linen are in! Couples have found a way to add a rich sense of both dimension and texture to their wedding decor. They’re throwing out the traditional fabrics and bringing in more luxurious options, such as velvet, cashmere and corduroy to name a few. Use faux versions for table runners, tablecloths, ribbons on invitations to instantly upgrade your look and feel.

3. PASTELS MAKE WAY FOR BRIGHT COLOURS

Out with the muted pastel shades and in with bright vibrant colours. Brides have boldly moved away from light colour schemes to more bold and beautiful shades. Top trending decor colours for 2019 are predicted to be yellow, blue and sea green.

4. ALL ABOUT ACRYLIC

This is one medium that will gain much-deserved popularity this year. Use it to make long-lasting, durable invitations, hire acrylic reception furniture perfect for an outdoor affair and make the most of it for all your signage and stationery.

5. FLORAL CREATIONS ARE GOING GREEN

In 2018 floral hoops and oversized wreaths trended in wedding decor concepts. This year unique and abstract floral decor is set to take over. Colourful floral arrangements are making way for greenery. Brides are opting for simple, chic and elegant arrangements. Brides are taking more care in selecting wedding venues where the beauty of the location speaks for itself and doesn’t have to be supplemented with too many flowers and extra decor elements. But for your bouquets and wedding arches, go for greenery!

6. BALLOONS ARE BACK!

Confetti and sparklers as the bridal couple leave the ceremony is quickly becoming a thing of the past. Although many look forward to the old-school send-off by showering the couple with confetti, rice or rose petals, brides are finding new and unique ways to make that moment memorable. With plenty of colours to choose from, brides are now opting to use balloons, not only as cost-effective wedding decor, but also as the bridal couple walk down the aisle after the wedding ceremony.

7. STATEMENT LIGHTING

Every bride loves some amazing lighting. From a thousand fairy lights to bolder statements lights, which include neon lights and stunning chandeliers, brides are allocating more of their wedding budget to their lighting options.

Images: Pinterest

In Fashion And Grooming

Lookbook: Menswear of the moment

February 13, 2019 No Comments

Go bold or go home! Menswear is no longer restricted to a boring black tux – we’re talking bright colour, mixing and matching prints, and show-stopper accessories.

Julius (left) wears: Shirt, Edgars; jacket, Zara; trousers and bow tie, both Eurosuit
Nicolas (right) wears: Shirt, Zara; blazer (part of set), trousers (part of set) and bow tie, all Eurosuit

Hector (left) wears: Shirt, trousers (part of set) and bow tie, all Eurosuit; waistcoat, Edgars;
sneakers, Pressroom
Julius (centre) wears: Shirt and waistcoat, both Sello Medupe; blazer and pocket square, both Woolworths; trousers (part of set), Eurosuit; shoes, Old Khaki; rings stylist’s own
Nicolas (right) wears: Shirt, Topman; blazer, TM Lewin; trousers, Sello Medupe; tie, Thomas & Benno; shoes, Aldo; pocket square stylist’s own

Hector wears: Shirt and trousers (with belt), both Zara; waistcoat, Edgars; tie, Eurosuit; sandals, Woolworths

Julius wears: Shirt and trousers, both Sello Medupe; blazer, Zara; sunglasses, Call It Spring; tiepins, Smith Jewellery; pocket square stylist’s own

Nicolas wears: Shirt, Thomas & Benno; blazer, Topman; pocket square and feather both stylist’s own

Hector wears: Shirt and bow tie, both Eurosuit; waistcoat, Woolworths; blazer, Edgars; pocket square stylist’s own

Nicolas (left) wears: Shirt (with collar pin), Topman; blazer (part of set), Eurosuit; trousers, David Tlale; shoes, Old Khaki
Julius (right) wears: Shirt, J Crew at Zando; blazer, David Tlale; trousers (part of set), Eurosuit;
pocket square and sneakers both stylist’s own

Julius wears: Shirt, Edgars; blazer, Fundudzi by Craig Jacobs; neckpiece, Smith Jewellery; pocket square stylist’s own

Nicolas wears: Shirt, Edgars; blazer (with spider brooch) and trousers, both Sello Medupe; bow tie stylist’s own; pocket watch, Smith Jewellery; shoes, Madison at Zando

Fashion: Kim Mitha-Coe
Photography: Andreas Eiselen/HMimages.co.za
Grooming: Yumna parker/Buff Make-up
Models: Hector & Julius/Cover Model Management, Nicolas/20Management

*All products subject to availability

In Wedding Cakes

Let them eat cake! 6 wedding cake trends we’re still obsessed with

February 12, 2019 No Comments

We got together with some of the best local bakers around to show you six of our favourite wedding cake trends to help you make sure that your wedding cake… takes the cake!

1. METALLICS

Metallic studs – like the ones we see on shoes and clothing on the runway – add dimension and texture to a cake.

Mandy Byren from Cake Heaven SA

2. OMBRE

Ombre, especially metallic ombré, is still huge on the wedding scene. It’s beautiful in its simplicity and allows for interesting cake toppers.

Linda Knop from Sugar Cakes

3. SIMPLICITY

This season sees wedding cakes relieved of too many decorations and intricacies. A move to simpler yet striking designs like monotone or two-tone cakes is the style of choice. Watercolours and pastels reinforce this idea of less is more.

Wade van der Merwe from Cakes by Wade

4. BRUSHSTROKES

Think drama and flair with strokes painted in chocolate or fondant forming a beautiful portrait. Combine them with natural elements – another top choice – adding a flower or two for a softer, whimsical look.

Kanya Hunt from The Hunt House Kitchen

5. MARBLE

Marble hasn’t left just yet! Apply it interestingly by having a pink, green or even blue marbled tier. Add some metallic ombré or gold dust and have fun with the design!

Daniella Green from Charly’s Bakery

6. NATURE

Along the theme of greenery and the environment, bakers are having fun playing around with different elements such as bark, birds, feathers and leaves (real or edible). These will take your cake from pretty to memorable.

Robyn Potter from Chocswirl

Styling: Chiara Turilli & Amerae Vercueil
Photography: Samantha Pinto

In Beauty

5 DIY face masks to get that wedding glow

February 11, 2019 No Comments

Planning your big day is both an exciting and stressful time, with immense pressure to be at your best. Don’t forget to break away from all the organising every now and then for some me-time. These relaxing DIY face masks are the perfect way to take time out for yourself and keep your skin glowing and ready for the wedding.

Create easy facemasks with simple ingredients in your kitchen for a quick escape that will leave your skin feeling fresh and renewed.

THE METHOD

1. Mix all the ingredients together.
2. Use your hands or a clean make-up brush to apply the mask to your face.
3. Leave for 15-20 minutes.
4. Wash off and cleanse and moisturise.

THE MASKS

1. Aloe vera mask

1 tsp aloe vera gel
2 tbsp rosewater
2 tbsp coconut oil

2. Turmeric mask

1 tsp turmeric
1 tbsp honey
2 tbsp coconut oil

3. Home clay mask

2 tbsp bentonite clay powder
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tsp vitamin E oil
2 drops tea tree essential oil

4. Cucumber mask

½ cucumber, blended

5. Lavender facial scrub

1-2 tbsp coconut oil
1 tbsp Epsom salts
2 drops lavender essential oil

Image: Unsplash

In Advice

How to Make a Grand Getaway at Your Wedding

February 10, 2019 No Comments

With all the details you have to think about while planning your big day, one thing many couples often overlook is the grand getaway. After you’ve wowed your guests with your big entrance, the delicious meal, and that epic dance party, you probably won’t want the night to end. So sweeten the deal and go out with a bang! Here are 6 unique ways to bid adieu to your guests and ride off as newlyweds in style.

1. Own your exit with an old-fashioned car. Consider renting an old-fashioned car for your grand exit. Tie a few empty cans to the bumper and hang a home-made “just married” sign in the window, and you’re set for a classic sendoff…just like in the movies. The pictures you’ll get from this getaway will look great at the end of your wedding album, hung on the wall of your entryway, or on your thank you notes!

2. Hop in a horse and buggy. If you love horses or are just into the classic, romantic charm of a horse-drawn carriage ride, this is the getaway for you. Just be sure to have the driver bring a heavy blanket to keep you and your new spouse warm as you leisurely make your way home.

3. Take a trolley. For couples getting married in a city where trolleys are iconic fixtures (think: New Orleans or San Francisco), leaving in a trolley can be the perfect way to bring your wedding locale’s personality into your wedding. The best part? All of your nearest and dearest can join you when you depart if you’re not ready for the night to end just yet.

In Advice

What To Get For the Pup Who Has Everything

February 10, 2019 No Comments

Like many of us dog lovers, I have a tendency to spoil our family dog, Bailey. How can you blame me, when he buries his nose in my couch looking for his old toys in such an adorable way? I love our guy, but the thing is, I’m skeptical about getting him new toys because he’s very particular: he only buries his favorite toys in the couch, but many of the rest of them just sit on the floor. When he was a puppy, I used to spend $40 per month on toys and treats alone (those bully sticks can get expensive)! But, in trying to find a (much) more wallet-friendly way to keep Bailey entertained, I found the absolute best gift you could get for any dog, any size, any personality.