Kirsten Jacobs, Author at Wedding ETC

In Advice

Expect this to go wrong on your wedding day

October 1, 2019 No Comments

Planning does not always make perfect. Sometimes things go awry despite your best efforts. In this case, make sure to expect the unexpected. Here are the things that can go wrong on your wedding day and how to prepare for them.

Someone could get sick:

You can’t schedule sickness, unfortunately. Whether it’s you, your partner or a member of your bridal party, no one is safe from the perils of health problems. While not completely preventable, there are things you can do to minimise problems. Stick to a healthy diet of fruits and vegetables in the lead up to your wedding to maintain your vitamin intake, drink more water, and consider taking probiotics. Make sure you take medication at the first hint of sickness.

The weather could be terrible:

Weather is unpredictable, especially when you plan events in advance. Make sure to check weather forecasts the week of, and prepare for all weather types by coming up with a contingency plan. Have umbrellas on hand for rain, and hand-held mechanical fans for hot weather.

Transport could get messed up:

If you are using an external transport service, chances are that they will run late. Make sure to stay in constant contact with drivers to be conscious of their whereabouts at every step of the day, and triple-check that they have been given correct directions so that guests don’t get lost on the way to your big day.

You could forget something:

Your wedding day can be stressful, making it easy for things to slip your mind. To stay on plan, have your maid of honour carry a checklist of things you’ll need and constantly refer to it.

Someone could be late:

People run on their own timezones. Expect that not all your guests will arrive on time to witness your nuptials. If the late party is in your wedding party or an important family member, then hold off on the ceremony a bit. Otherwise, go ahead without them.

Someone could get drunk:

Things can quickly go wrong when you pair people with alcohol, especially if there is an open bar. Don’t be surprised if people have a bit too much liquid courage at your wedding. If you are worried, consider having a cash bar over an open bar. Guests will be less likely to go overboard drinking if they have to pay for it themselves.

Image: Unsplash

In Advice

Who to invite to your wedding events

October 1, 2019 No Comments

There are many pre-wedding events that fall part of your wedding festivities. However, it can get complicated when determining your guest lists for all these parties.

Of course, anyone invited to any of your pre-wedding events should also be invited to your big day. But who scores an invite for what event? Here is the rundown on who to invite to which wedding event:

The engagement party:

For the first festivity in your wedding journey, the engagement party is for everyone important to you. Typically, the engagement party guest list acts as a precursor to the wedding list. As such, only invite people you plan on inviting to your wedding.

In determining this guest list, think of who is most important to you. You don’t have to invite distant family members or old friends you no longer speak to if they do not contribute to your life. Think of who is and has been an active part of your life.

If you are not sure how big your wedding will be, keep your engagement party list small. You’ll always have time to add to your wedding list following the engagement party.

The bridal shower:

The bridal shower is typically intimate in nature. Other than your bridal party, you should also invite close friends and family.

While bridal showers are typically women-only, you can also throw a co-ed shower and extend the guest list to include all the special men in your life.

Avoid inviting people you do not intend on inviting to your wedding, as it can be read as disrespectful.

The bachelor/bachelorette party:

This party is your chance to let loose and celebrate your last few days as an unmarried person. As with the other events, you should invite your entire bridal party first as they are the people typically closest to you. Friends and family not in the bridal party but still important to you should also make the guest list.

Depending on the plan of events, maybe don’t invite certain family members. You might not want your grandmother with you when you’re planning a wild night out on the town.

The Rehearsal dinner:

The rehearsal dinner typically involves those closest to you and is usually small and intimate. As such, you should invite those that will be at your ceremony rehearsal. This includes your wedding party, parents of the betrothed, siblings and the officiant.

You should also invite immediate family and close extended family, as the dinner acts as a perfect way to bring the families together. Use your own discretion on whether you want to include plus-ones at this event.

The Wedding:

This is the time to go big. Your wedding guest list will be the largest of all the events. This is when you invite everyone special to you and your relationship. Everyone that you have invited to pre-wedding festivities thus far should be at your wedding. Of course, remember to stick to your budget and venue space when determining this list.

Start with your closest family and friends and work your way down. Family can be tough because it can look bad if you are selective and only invite some. The general rule of thumb is not to invite one without the rest. For example, if you invite one cousin, you will be expected to invite all your cousins. Of course, this is dependent on your specific family dynamic and you are within your right to not invite certain people you feel are not important to you and your relationship.

Many modern weddings are going kid-free. You must make the decision on whether you want to include children in your wedding guest list. Make sure to let guests know if their kids are not invited!

You will also have to decide on the plus-one protocol. You are not required to allow every guest a plus-one, but you should typically allow those in serious relationships to bring their partner.

Image: Unsplash

In Advice

How to plan your engagement party

October 1, 2019 No Comments

Congratulations, you’re engaged! Traditionally, the first step in wedding festivities is to throw an engagement party celebrating your upcoming nuptials with your nearest and dearest. Here are some key steps to planning your perfect engagement party.

Choose the hostess with the most-est:

While tradition states that the bride’s parents typically throw the engagement party, it is not a hard and fast rule. Today, anyone can host the party, whether it be a family member, close friend or even joint hosts. Just remember that the host will be the main funder of the party, so they have to be prepared to pay.

Pick a date:

Next step is to find the right date. However, this is not an easy feat. Think about the scale of the party and how long it will take to plan things before setting a date. If you are going for a big, extravagant party then allot more time to plan. Engagement parties typically occur soon after the engagement but can still be held months after the fact.

You will also need to take into consideration the schedules of your guests. For example, if family members out of town will have to travel long distances to attend, ideally don’t host the party during the week.

Plan your guest list:

This is an important step. Remember that the people you invite to your engagement party will also have to be invited to your wedding. As such, this guest list is a preliminary list for your big day. If you’re not sure how big your wedding will be, allow your engagement to be more intimate so that you don’t invite too many people and create an expectation.

Set up a budget:

Party planning can quickly get expensive if you don’t have a financial guideline in place. Set up a budget in which you allocate certain amounts of money for the venue, food and drinks, invites and other party planning necessities. This makes every following step much easier as you narrow your options to fit financial means. Remember to leave a margin for extra expenses too!

Location, location, location:

Now that you know how big your guest list is, you can choose a venue that will accompany everyone. The venue will speak to the type of party you want. For example, having a party in your parents’ back yard will give an intimate feel, whereas a grand ballroom will give a more luxe feel. This way, you can create a vision of the type of decor you want too.

Send invites:

With date and location secured, you can now send out invites. Make sure you send these out with enough time to arrive and give your guests time to plan. At least 3 weeks before the party is ideal. Luckily, your type of venue also helps to determine the style of invitation, making the design element much easier. Make sure to let your guests know the dress-code to avoid outfit disasters.

Set up a menu:

Now that you know the venue, your menu can perfectly correspond. For example, if it’s a cocktail event, finger foods work best. A family-style menu works best for intimate gatherings. Don’t forget to include drinks in this! Your menu should work for you, your budget and the style of party you’re aiming for.

Plan your decor:

At this point, you should already have an idea of the type of decor you want. Now is the time to do your research and purchase things that will bring your vision to life. Simply adding mini-candles and fairy lights can add a whimsical yet romantic feel. Use fabric to bring in colour schemes, and flowers to soften the space.

Gift registry:

While not expected, some guests may want to gift you and your partner at your engagement party. To prep for this, you can set up a gift registry. Remember to focus on low- to medium-priced gifts, as people will most likely spend more on a wedding gift. You can also ask guests to donate to a chosen charity in lieu of gifts.

Dress to impress:

As the first taste of wedding festivities, it is typical, though not required, that engaged pairs wear white to their engagement party. Regardless of colour, make sure that your outfit works well for the venue and style of party you are throwing. For example, a casual sundress won’t work for a formal event, and a beaded gown might be a bit too dressed up for a poolside celebration.

Enjoy!

You’ve made it! Now is the time to revel in your excitement and celebrate your future with your loved ones.

Image: Pixabay

In Drinks

Open bar vs cash bar: what’s the difference?

October 1, 2019 No Comments

Two words almost guaranteed to put a smile on the face of your guests are “open bar”. However, open bars come with benefits as well as downfalls. So which option is right for you and your wedding, an open bar or a cash bar?

What is an open bar?

An open bar is when drinks are served for free from a bar at a function. Those hosting the event pay per head and usually covers a variety of alcohols including beers, ciders and wines.

Pros

– guests will appreciate it, especially after spending money or travelling for your wedding

– liquid courage will encourage guests to have more fun

– it makes your life easier as you don’t have to plan out estimated costs per beverage

Cons

– it is costly

– guests can take advantage and drink too much

– drunk people may put a negative effect on your wedding

What is a cash bar?

A cash bar is when guests can purchase drinks from a variety of alcohols at the bar at a given function.

Pros

– it is the more affordable option, allowing you to put the money towards something else

– guests are less likely to go overboard with drinking, thus avoiding messy moments

Cons

– can be considered a little tacky (it’s not!)

– guests might feel like it’s inconsiderate to have to spend even more money at a function where they’re considered to be the guest

Image: Pexels

In uncategorized

Modern Bridal Shower Ideas

September 30, 2019 No Comments

Your bridal shower is the perfect opportunity to celebrate your upcoming nuptials with your loved ones while receiving gifts to prepare you for married life. However, the traditional format of women-only parties where guests sit together, snack on foods, play foolish games and unbox presents can be a bit played out. For the modern bride, there are a number of exciting ways to host this pre-wedding celebration. Here are some ideas to throw a modern bridal shower:

Wine it up:

Treat your bridal party to some bubbles by hosting a wine-tasting. Consider having a professional sommelier present their best wines to your guests or visit a local wine farm. If you’re having a destination wedding, even better! The wines can all be from that specific region, and will also provide you with a theme for the day. Your guests can then vote for their favourite wines and the best ones can be flowing at the wedding. Win win!

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Let them eat cake:

Who doesn’t love cake? Show your love of sweet things by having a cake or cookie decorating class. Invite a baking professional to show you the basics and then get your creative juices flowing. Guests can each decorate their own cookie, or work in groups/pairs to decorate mini-cakes or cupcakes in the theme of your wedding.

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Have a scavenger hunt:

For a dynamic day, have a scavenger hunt! In teams, guests need to work through a host of clues related to you and your partner to win the ultimate prize. A scavenger hunt is a fun way to keep partygoers busy and helps them get to know each other better.

Pop it and lock it:

Brush up on your dancing skills ahead of your big day by hosting a dancing class for your bridal shower. Consider hiring a choreographer to teach you and your guests a routine to your favourite song, or in a dance style you love. You could even perform the group dance at the wedding! Besides being loads of fun and a great workout, the dance class is a great way to bond with your loved ones.

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High tea:

Elevate the usual cake-and-tea routine by enjoying a high tea. There are so many restaurants and hotels that offer classic and alternative high teas for different experiences. Give your guest a chance to dress up and sip some tea in style.

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Treat yourself to a spa day:

It’s important to treat yourself. Consider ordering a mobile spa to pamper yourself and your guests during your bridal shower. Offer manicures, pedicures and massages to your guests to get them feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. This is a great way to show your loved ones that you appreciate them.

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Image: Pexels

In cake

Somizi and Mohale wed in lavish ceremony

September 30, 2019 No Comments

Idols SA judge Somizi Mhlongo and Mohale Motaung’s traditional wedding was an extravaganza of epic proportions. The couple, dubbed #SomHale on social media, wed in a lavish traditional African ceremony at Kibler Park, Johannesburg on Saturday, September 28.

The couple had numerous, often matching outfit changes throughout the day. Their first look was designed by Gert Johan Coetzee, who was inspired by a North African theme.

Have a look at everything that went on at the spectacular event:

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A host of local celebrities were in attendance, including Bonang Matheba, Casper Nyovest, Kelly Khumalo, Lerato Kganyago, Pearl Thusi, Julius Malema, and Thando Thabethe.

According to Liquid Image Consulting, the creative team behind the wedding, the pair had a particular dress code for guests. “Dresscode: #Somhale wanted to showcase African Tradition and they personally selected a region from Africa for each guest detailing what they should wear and sent extensive dress code mood boards to ensure everyone stayed on theme!!” they wrote in an Instagram post.

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The wedding venue was royally decked out in a white and gold colour scheme.

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The eight-tiered tower cake and chandelier cakes were a sight to see.

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According to Somizi, the couple will have their white wedding in January 2020.

Image: Instagram

In Announcements

Princess Beatrice engaged to Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi

September 26, 2019 No Comments

Another royal wedding is on its way. Princess Beatrice is newly engaged to property tycoon Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi.

The announcement was made by the Royal Family in a statement today. According to the announcement, the couple became engaged in Italy earlier this month. The wedding will take place in 2020.

The Duke and Duchess of York are delighted to announce the engagement of Princess Beatrice to Mr Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi. Read the full announcement here: https://t.co/E7VRBC7H96 pic.twitter.com/7sSIVy8Kmj

— The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) September 26, 2019

“We are both so excited to be embarking on this life adventure together,” the pair said in a statement. “We share so many similar interests and values, and we know that this will stand us in great stead for the years ahead, full of love and happiness.”

The Duke and Duchess of York said, “We are thrilled that Beatrice and Edoardo have got engaged, having watched their relationship develop with pride. We are the lucky parents of a wonderful daughter who has found her love and companion in a completely devoted friend and loyal young man. We send them every good wish for a wonderful family future.”

Mrs. Nikki Williams-Ellis and Mr. Alessandro Mapelli Mozzi said, “We are truly delighted about Edoardo and Beatrice’s engagement. Our family has known Beatrice for most of her life. Edo and Beatrice are made for each other, and their happiness and love for each other is there for all to see. They share an incredibly strong and united bond, their marriage will only strengthen what is already a wonderful relationship.”

https://www.instagram.com/p/B23t01NFjke/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Princess Beatrice is ninth in line for the throne. Edoardo is a multi-millionaire and founder of property consultancy Banda.

The pair made their first official appearance as a couple in March 2019 at the National Portrait Gallery Gala.

Image: Instagram / Princess Eugenie

In Celebs

Cassie and Alex Fine wed one month after engagement

September 26, 2019 No Comments

They haven’t got a long way to go anymore. Cassie Ventura and fiancé Alex Fine wed in an intimate ceremony on September 25 only a month and one day after they got engaged.

The pair tied the knot in an intimate ceremony in Malibu, California. Cassie wore a flowing off-the-shoulder gown with a lace veil, and styled her hair in soft waves, while Fine wore a black tux to say “I do”.

Film director Peter Berg officiated their wedding, sharing this picture to Instagram after the ceremony.

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The couple have had a whirlwind romance this past year. They began dating in late 2018 and in June 2019 the couple announced that they are expecting their first child together. Fine got down on one knee on August 24 and asked Ventura to be his wife.

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The Compton Cowboys, a group that works to dispel stereotypes about African Americans, helped Fine pop the question. In an IGTV video posted by Cassie, the pregnant beauty can be seen being escorted by Compton Cowboys leader Randy Savvy to Fine who is waiting for her atop a horse. He then dismounts, gets down on one knee and proposes, to much happiness from Cassie.

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Cassie is best known for her hits “Me & U”, and “Long Way 2 Go”. She previously dated P Diddy for eleven years before calling it quits in early 2018. Fine is a celebrity personal trainer. His clients include many cast members of the hit TV show, Riverdale.

Picture: Instagram

In Advice

Easy ways to save money on your wedding day

September 24, 2019 No Comments

For those planning their wedding, some things may seem out of their financial reach. Most modern weddings have become extravagant and costly, but they don’t have to be. There are a number of ways an engaged couple can save some coins whilst planning their dream wedding. Here are some tips to reduce your wedding budget:

Turn to technology:

Cut costs by sending out digital wedding invites and having guests RSVP online. Simply find a great digital artist to design your online invite (or design it yourself using apps like Canva) and set up a link to a website, Google Drive document, app or a phone number guests can use to RSVP.

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A post shared by Wedding Invitations ? (@vicious.designs.vfb) on Sep 23, 2019 at 1:05am PDT

Think local:

Of course, dedicated wedding venues are popular for a reason. However, there are a variety of other locations that can work just as well for a fraction of the price. Consider having your wedding reception at country clubs, community halls, parks, restaurants, galleries or even a family member or friend’s property.

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Say yes to the affordable dress:

A large chunk of one’s wedding budget often goes towards the dress. Spend your money wisely by searching for sample sales, repurposing a family member’s dress, picking something off-the-rack or even thrifting a wedding dress. Remember that any dress can be good as new with some custom-additions. Think of it as your ‘something old’!

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Get a personal officiant:

Have a friend or family member become ordained online so that they can marry you and your partner, saving you money and giving your wedding a personal touch.

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A post shared by Wedding & Elopements (@dillonkin) on May 27, 2019 at 1:04am PDT

DIY the day away:

There are so many simple DIY’s that will save you money and personalise your wedding. Use thrift shopped mirrors, chalkboards or window panes to create one big wedding program. Besides being cost-effective, it’s also better for the environment to not print out individual programs.

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A post shared by Isabel | Calligrapher (@chalk_n_ink_) on Jan 24, 2019 at 5:40pm PST

Go out-of-season:

Off-peak dates can get you your dream venue at a cheaper price. As most weddings are held on Saturdays, consider having your wedding on a Friday or Sunday to cut venue and food/drink costs.

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A post shared by Cape Town Wedding Photographer (@simonefranzel) on Jul 31, 2019 at 10:00pm PDT

Mix-and-match:

Use more affordable flowers as decoration. Mismatched, smaller centerpieces are cost-effective and cute. You can also add bulk and dimension to your bouquets by using foliage.

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A post shared by Weddings and Special Events (@jademcintoshflowers) on Sep 21, 2019 at 9:03pm PDT

Give power to your flowers:

Flowers are expensive. Make sure they work double-duty by reusing them throughout the day. Consider reusing bridesmaids bouquets after the ceremony to create one large centerpiece or add them to table decor.

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Strategically plan out your Big Day:

We get, it, sometimes things can run overtime during your wedding. However, photographers and musicians will charge extra if they have to stay longer than originally agreed, or wait around unnecessarily. Ensure you stick to a swift schedule between your ceremony and reception to avoid paying more than you bargained for.

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A post shared by Sharyn | Wedding Photographer (@sharynhodges) on Aug 12, 2019 at 6:46am PDT

Make your wedding family style:

Shareable family-style meals are more cost-effective and interactive than 3-course sit-down meals. Consider designing a shareable menu filled with fan favourites that will cater to every diet.

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Be wise with your wedding favours:

Wedding favours don’t have to be extravagant. Something small and travel-friendly is ideal. Think mini-wine bottles, handmade soaps, individual succulents or tiny jars of your favourite sweets. You can also offer shareable favours for couples, such as a bottle of wine, to cut costs. You can also read: Best wedding planning APP’s and tools

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Image: Unsplash

In Advice

Hilarious 1950s advice on how to snag a man

September 23, 2019 No Comments

The 1950s were a wild time. The Cold war was escalating, Elvis and his pelvis were gyrating to the amazement of adoring fans and television had not even been introduced to South Africa. It is also in this time period that women were being given some, uh, interesting advice on relationships.

A 1958 article published in American Women’s Magazine, McCall’s, titled “129 Ways to Get a Husband” gives us insight into what life was like for women in the 1950s:

The magazine article advises women on the best ways to find a man.

Kim Marx-Kuczynski from Madison, Wisconsin found the article in a rummage sale and was fascinated by its contents. “I think the article is reflective of the social mores of the era, and I found the comparison between what was acceptable then and what is acceptable now fascinating. It also made me grateful that so much progress has been made,” she told Bored Panda.

“It’s outdated and absurd and funny, but it had serious intentions,” Kim concluded. “Society has changed so much in the last sixty years, and this article exemplifies the differences between what our moms and grandmas grew up with compared to ourselves and the coming generations. It’s fascinating.”

The article had invited 16 “experts” to analyse what the “sixteen million women over the age of seventeen who are not married,” and who would presumably like to be married, according to the article, could do to find a husband. The results are nothing short of hilarious. Here is some of the funniest advice from the article:

On where to find Mr. Right:

– Have your car break down at strategic places.

– Look in the census reports for places with the most single men.

– Read the obituaries to find eligible widowers.

– Become a nurse or an airline stewardess – they have very high marriage rates.

– Be nice to everybody – they may have an eligible brother or son.

– Be friendly to ugly men – handsome is as handsome does.

– Don’t be afraid to associate with more attractive girls; they may have some leftovers.

How to let him know you’re there:

– Wear a band-aid. People always ask what happened.

– Stand in a corner and cry softly. Chances are good that he’ll come over to find out what’s wrong.

– Buy a convertible. Men like to ride in them.

– “Accidentally” have your purse fly open, scattering its contents all over the street.

On how to look good to him:

– Get a sunburn.

– When you are with him, order your steak rare.

– Don’t tell him about your allergies.

– Don’t whine.

On how to land him:

– Talk to his father about business and agree that taxes are too high!

– If he’s rich, tell him you like his money – the honesty will intrigue him!

– Never let him believe your career is more important to you than marriage.

– Point out to him that the death rate of single men is twice that of married men.

Wild ideas:

– If your mother is fat, tell him you take after your father. If he’s fat too, tell him you’re adopted!

– Rent a billboard and post your picture and telephone number on it!

– Paint your name and number on the roof and say, “Give me a buzz, pilots.”

– Stand on a busy street corner with a lasso.

Image: Pixabay