Kirsten Jacobs, Author at Wedding ETC

In Celebs

Little Mix’s Leigh-Anne Pinnock engaged to footballer Andre Gray

May 29, 2020 No Comments

Little Mix singer Leigh-Anne Pinnock is engaged to boyfriend of 4 years, footballer Andre Gray. Gray popped the question on their 4-year anniversary, which they celebrated at home with a romantic setup in their garden.

Gray shared the moment to Instagram, captioning the images: “Let the caption speak for itself this time. Hasta la muerte” (until death).

https://www.instagram.com/p/CAwAP4CnhjR/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

While the singer has not shared images from their engagement, she did take to Instagram to show the love on their anniversary with a throwback image of the two.

“Happy Anniversary baby… how has 4 years gone so fast! ?❤️ all I know is I’m another year more crazy about you. I couldn’t love you harder if I tried ❤️❤️❤️,” she wrote.

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

Congrats to the happy couple!

Feature image: Instagram / Andre Gray

In News

The origin of Mr and Mrs

May 28, 2020 No Comments

Mr and Mrs seem like given titles for those that choose to walk down the aisle and say ‘I do’. Have you ever wondered where these titles come from? The origin might surprise you.

The titles originally had nothing to do with marital status. Cambridge University historian Dr. Amy Erickson explains that ‘Mrs’ and ‘Miss’ derived from the word ‘mistress’ while ‘Mr’ comes from ‘master’.

“Few people realise that ‘Mistress’ is the root word of both of the abbreviations ‘Mrs,’ and ‘Miss,’ just as Mr is an abbreviation of ‘Master.’ The ways that words derived from Mistress have developed their own meanings is quite fascinating and shifts in these meanings can tell us a lot about the changing status of women in society, at home and in the workplace,” she said

According to author Samuel Johnson, a mistress could be defined as “1. A woman who governs; correlative to subject or servant; 2. A woman skilled in anything; 3. A woman teacher; 4. A woman beloved and courted; 5. A term of contemptuous address; 6. A whore or concubine.”

Back in the mid-18th century, ‘mistress’ didn’t have quite the negative connotations it has today. In those days, a mistress typically referred to a woman of high economic or social capital, rather than a married woman. A woman referred to as Mrs in the 18th century was thus not necessarily married.

Those on the lower scales of society were simply referred to by their names. For example, the lady of the house might have been Mrs Abernathy, while the scullery maid would simply be Anna Black.

Mr and Mrs were on equal standing, and Erickson argues those that held these titles were more like businessmen and women as they governed servants or apprentices, and were quite literally the masters and mistresses of their trades.

It was only in the late 18th century that the use of Mrs became attached to marital status. The title Miss, which was originally a title for young girls, started to be used as a term to refer to an unmarried woman of a high social status, who was often a teacher. These young, socially ambitious single women wanted their own title that would mark their social class but not lump them into a group with the older businesswomen and heads of households that typically held the title of Mrs.

This new term thus shifted the meaning of Mrs to signify a married woman and create a distinction between young and older.

Why the pronunciation of mistress turned to ‘missus’ is unclear. In A Critical Pronouncing Dictionary, and Expositor of the English Language from 1828, author John Walker suggests its a result of colloquialism.

“The same haste and necessity of dispatch, which has corrupted Master into Mister, has, when a title of civility only, contracted Mistress into Missis,” he wrote.

Feature image: Unsplash

In Decor

Rocking music-inspired wedding decor

May 28, 2020 No Comments

Music inspires and brings people together. For many, music has captured their heart and created important bonds with their loved ones. If you’re one of those people, then incorporating music into your big day seems like the perfect thing to do.

There are so many easy ways to incorporate music into your big day, from invitations all the way to your guest book. A plus is that this theme is incredibly easy to DIY. Gather some sheet music, some old records, and some creativity.

We’ve got the inspiration covered. Here are some decor ideas that will hit the right note on your big day.

Invites:

Seating chart:

Decor:

Guest book:

Feature image: Unsplash

In News

J.C. Le Roux offers silver lining for lockdown wedding blues

May 28, 2020 No Comments

Many beautiful brides-to-be and their partners were looking forward to celebrating their wedding day in early 2020, until the COVID-19 lockdown altered their plans.

The House of J.C Le Roux understands how easy it is for even the most fun-loving and optimistic bridal couple to lose their sparkle when wedding plans fall through. In an effort to banish the bridal blues, the renowned sparkling wine-brand has launched #JCSilverLinings – because in the world of J.C Le Roux there is always a silver lining.

Brand Manager Michelle Michael explains, “The House of J.C. Le Roux understands how difficult the lockdown has been for everyone and recognises all the little things South Africans have been doing to stay positive. Our team has been keeping a keen eye on the social media scene and recognise the efforts of brides and grooms-to-be across the country to remain upbeat. The #JCSilverLinings campaign aims to surprise and delight 200 disappointed bridal couples who have had to postpone their weddings due to lock down with the little silver lining they need.”

One of these bridal couples – Carly Fillis (33) and Nathan Goodall (35) – shared their story of the postponement of their wedding day on social media, which was spotted by the J.C. Le Roux team. The pair from Johannesburg spent months planning their perfect, fairy tale wedding which they envisaged as an intimate and informal outdoor event that would reflect their light-hearted and relaxed approach to life. However, they had to put this dream on hold when lock down was announced in March, as the wedding date was set for 8 May.

Their story is one that touches the heart. They first met in 2014 when Carly showed up at Nathan’s 29^th birthday party. As it turns out, his sister happened to be a good friend of Carly’s and Nathan had secretly set his sights on her four years before. The spark was ignited that evening and when he asked her out on a date, the mutual attraction led to more time spent together as a couple. Love blossomed and five years later, on 12 April 2019, he popped the question and they set their wedding date. ‘We were destined to be together, and this is a bump in the road we just need to get over,’ says Fillis.

‘I wasn’t expecting anything, and I was feeling ‘kinda blue’ when the call came in to let us know we were chosen to receive a hamper from J.C. Le Roux. We were both overjoyed and did a little dance around the living room,’ she laughs.

Marketing Manager Nicola Coubrough says the stories shared on social media by bridal couples that have encountered similar disappointment have touched their hearts. ‘To those couples who have had to cancel their wedding because of lock down, this is our small way of saying it will soon be your time to sparkle. We hope our hampers give them a reason to celebrate while they wait for the moment they will walk down the aisle on the most important day of their lives together.’’

Bridal couples across the country will be delighted to know that there is yet another surprise silver lining on the horizon courtesy of the House of J.C. Le Roux, to be revealed on social media later in the month.

Watch this space.

Anyone who would like to be part of the #JCSilverLinings action on social media can follow J.C. Le Roux on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. Check out ther website here: www.jcleroux.co.za

Feature image: supplied

In Legal

Vendor denies refund and threatens man after fiancée dies

May 28, 2020 No Comments

A Dallas-based wedding videography company is under fire for refusing to refund a couple after the bride-to-be passed away before their wedding day.

Justin Montney and Alexis-Athena Wyatt were set to tie the knot in May. Tragically, Wyatt died in a car crash in early February, leaving Montney heartbroken.

Montney soon began contacting all their vendors to cancel arrangements, the majority of whom gave him refunds. One of their vendors, Copper Stallion Media, refused to refund the $1,800 (R31 241) fee the couple had already paid as it was against their policy and the couple had signed a legally-binding contract.

“We replied and expressed our sympathy and explained to him that all of our wedding contracts are non-refundable,” said the company online. “He kept emailing us trying to get a refund and we kept reiterating that the contract is non-refundable. We eventually stopped responding since the issue was moot.”

Montney continued to reach out to the company and after not hearing from them for months, said he would post about their refusal to refund him on social media. Copper Stallion Media then threatened to sue Montney, as well as Wyatt’s family for a negative review Wyatt’s mother had posted on The Knot.

Montney then reached out to a local television station to share his side of the story, along with screenshots of the conversation between him and the company. According to the screenshots, Copper Stallion Media had a few harsh comments, writing “we hope you sob and cry all day for what would have been your wedding day. Sorry, not sorry.” The story quickly sparked outrage.

there’s really people like this in the world. I hope no one hires them and they lose their business pic.twitter.com/OosZZcYaX6

— Tyler. (@Tyler_Macin17) May 24, 2020

According to Buzzfeed, Copper Stallion Media allegedly retaliated by creating a website called JustinMontney.com, on which they state they are building a case against Montney and accuse him of fueling a smear campaign against them, as they have received many negative reviews online since the story broke.

“We will NEVER refund Justin Montney even with the online threats and harassment… If we knew he was going to shake us down, we would have charged a higher deposit,” they allegedly wrote on the site. “Life is a b**ch, Justin.”

The content on the site has since been removed and replaced with a Youtube embed of the song ‘Disillusioned’ by A Perfect Circle.

Buzzfeed also reports that The Knot Worldwide recently discovered that the accounts for Copper Stallion on The Knot and Wedding Wire sites were created under a false identity by a man named Jesse J. Clarke.

There are suspicions that Jesse J. Clarke, the creator of those pages, may also be Jesse J. Clark, a videographer who in 2013 was accused of scamming about 90 couples by not delivering wedding videos as promised, while pocketing their payments.

“As soon as we became aware, we took immediate action and removed Copper Stallion Media from our marketplaces on The Knot and WeddingWire,” the company said.

“We are conducting a thorough investigation across our sites to determine if there are any other businesses that have been created under false identities by individuals associated with Copper Stallion Media and will take quick action to remove any listings that are found,” the Knot said.

A GoFundMe has been set up to help the family pay for funeral expenses, and over US$15,000 (R260 349) has already been raised.

Feature image: Unsplash

In Engagements

The perfect engagement ring based on your zodiac sign

May 28, 2020 No Comments

An engagement ring is highly personal. It’s something that speaks to the wearer, their character and their personality. What better way to find the perfect fit than to consult your zodiac sign?

For decades, people have relied on their horoscopes to tell them the way forward. If you’re in a tough spot and in need of some guidance, just turn to the stars. These are the perfect engagement ring styles to match your zodiac sign.

Aries (March 21–April 19)

As the first sign in the zodiac, it makes sense that Aries individuals love to come first. Aries humans are typically bold, adventurous and strong. Their confident nature lends them to many pioneering moves, so they’re not the type to go with the crowd. They’re also not ones for details, so best steer clear of designs that are complicated and over-the-top.

A statement ring is necessary for this loud and proud individual. Simple yet striking, alternative stones make a big statement without being too complicated. Go with a unique, less conventional stone like amethyst to truly stand out from the crowd. A triangular gem is highly unusual for an engagement ring, and even more so when paired with a rugged band. Perfect for the Aries individual who blazes their own trail.

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

Taurus (April 20–May 20)

Ruled by Venus, the enchanting planet that governs love, beauty, and money, this Earth sign loves the finer things in life. They are sensual, and love to be pampered. However, while they are inclined towards luxury, they also know the value of money and earthly goods. Taurus individuals are not the type to jump in head first. Ambitious and hardworking, they do the work to make sure the outcome is to their satisfaction.

The devil is in the details, so best make sure everything is perfect with an engagement ring for a Taurean. An ethically mined, emerald cut diamond gives the perfect amount of flash and glamour without being overly showy. Being sensual by nature, touch is everything so an emerald cut will be pleasing to this sign. It is bold and luxurious yet responsible, just like a Taurus strives to be.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CApgN3BBLuj/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Gemini (May 21–June 20)

This air sign has a reputation for having contrasting personality points, and is known to be energetic, youthful and versatile yet quiet and contemplative. They’re electric and curious, which is what draws people to them. Because of their personality, they often lead the pack with ideas and love to try something new.

With their dualistic personality, its best to go for a ring that blends traditional and modern. Consider a multifaceted emerald-cut emerald stone that honours their birthstone and reflects light from every angle, just like a Gemini.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CAbKMCel0gO/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Cancer (June 21–July 22)

Cancerians are incredibly intuitive and passionate water signs. They float between both the emotional and material realms and are thus highly sensitive to their environment. Much like their celestial spirit animal, Cancerians are like crabs in that they have a tough outer shell, only to reveal themselves as gentle-natured.

Cancerians love love, and what says love more than a diamond? Being water signs, it seems fitting to go for a shape that appeals to the softness of the ocean. A pear or even heart shaped sparkler will appeal to a Cancer’s love of soft lines. Go for a floating setting to really hammer in the water theme.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B-a7U4BFO8q/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Leo (July 23–August 22)

Much like its spirit animal, Leo’s are top of the food chain (or at least think they are). Their motto is ‘Go big or go home’, and they carry it with pride through their bold and fiery personalities. Despite their dominant personalities, Leos still manage to strike the right balance with originality and elegance.

Leos love being in the spotlight, so they deserve a ring to match. Go with a cushion-cut stone in a pavé setting for even more sparkle. Coloured stones like tanzanite or sapphire are perfect for the fire sign that sees themselves as royalty. This ring choice is elegant yet attention-grabbing, just like a Leo.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B9Aek_ahVUx/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Virgo (August 23–September 22)

Logical and dependable, this Earth sign is known for taking a systematic approach to life. Virgo’s are perfectionists at heart and often appear polished and put together. However, they are still intrinsically down to earth and modest.

For the classic Virgo, a timeless ring design is one they will cherish most. Think of simple designs that are perfectly and meticulously crafted. A simple round cut diamond in a prong setting and a classic metal like platinum or yellow gold appeals to a Virgo’s love of order and practicality.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B1lUokQh396/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Libra (September 23–October 22)

This air sign is all about balance. Represented by the scales, Libra’s love symmetry and strive for harmony. Like Taurus, they are also ruled by Venus, the planet that governs love, beauty, and money. As such, they love romance and being surrounded by beauty.

A ring that oozes grace, romance and subtle playfulness is perfect for a Libra. Think of a timeless design with an unexpected twist like a three-stoned ring with a bezel or tension setting.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CAWXC2FJ2mE/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Scorpio (October 23–November 21)

This water sign is easily confused as a fire sign for its passionate and fiery personality. Scorpios are also incredibly mysterious, intense and detail-oriented. This sign is the most closely linked to sex, seduction and pleasure.

Given their hedonistic tendencies, a bold yet romantic ring design is perfect for Scorpios. Instead of the expected diamond, go for something darker like onyx or ruby to centre the stone.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B-vQLNilT7P/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Sagittarius (November 22–December 21)

Known as the archer, this fire sign is a fun-loving free spirit always searching for adventure and knowledge. They’re ruled by Jupiter, the planet of abundance, spirituality, and growth. As such, they love to roam free and explore the various facets of the world and life.

Being adventurous in nature, your ring should reflect that too. Citrine and Topaz are birthstones for Sagittarius individuals born in November and December respectively. Citrine reminds one of sunflowers, fire and the sun while topaz is reminiscent of cool blue waters. Choose one of these stones to centre your ring and go even further by surrounding it with diamonds in a flower shape to reflect a Sagittarius’s carefree and whimsical spirit.

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

Capricorn (December 22–January 19)

Classic and thoughtful, Capricorns are incredibly grounded individuals. They tend to prefer the simpler things in life and are often more mature than their years. Capricorns tend to hold family close to their heart.

A vintage-inspired ring or an heirloom is perfect for the old Capricorn soul. An art deco-inspired ring gives that old time feel and subtle sparkle with a touch of modernity.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CAqjCQsFY72/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Aquarius (January 20–February 18)

Represented by the water bearer, the mystical healer who bestows water, or life upon the land, Aquarians are natural humanitarians. They are also rebels and refuse to bow to conformity, instead deeply believing in the power of individuality, change and transformation.

Considering their out-the-box sensibilities, an Aquarian deserves a ring just as unique as they are. Aquamarine is an unusual choice for an engagement ring, but its meaning will highly appeal to an Aquarians love of water. According to legend, the stone originated in the treasure chests of mermaids, and mariners would carry the stone for protection against the wrath of the sea. Go even more unique with a modern marquise cut.

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

Pisces (February 19–March 20)

Represented by the two fish swimming in opposite directions, Pisces are often at odds with fantasy and reality. As the last sign of the zodiac, they absorb the lessons of the signs before it, making Pisces individuals more psychic, empathetic, and compassionate. They are deep and sensitive, much like the ocean.

Considering their multi-faceted personality, an asscher cut diamond is perfect to reflect the depths of a Pisces individual. Asscher cut diamonds have great sparkle, much like the glistening sea. This ring thus perfectly embraces the sign’s water attributes.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CAsSn5FpVMp/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Feature image: Unsplash

In Celebs

Looking back at Heidi Klum and Seal’s vow renewals

May 27, 2020 No Comments

Many might have forgotten that there was once a time British musician Seal and German model Heidi Klum were married.

For seven years, this PDA-prone couple seemed as loved-up as ever. They would even renew their vows every single year in an elaborately themed ceremony.

Klum and Seal met in 2004 at a hotel lobby in New York City, where the attraction was instant. Early into their relationship, Klum discovered she was pregnant with her ex-boyfriend’s baby. Nevertheless, the couple remained strong. Seal proposed in 2005 while the couple were on a glacier, in a natural snow cave in Whistler, British Columbia.

They secretly married on a beach in Mexico in May 2005, with only 40 guests present. At the time, Klum was pregnant with the couple’s first child together.

Throughout their seven-year marriage, the pair renewed their vows every year in a themed ceremony. The renewal themes were, at times, eyebrow raising.

“It’s our time – a lovely family time,” she once told Redbook Magazine. “It’s about remembering this moment of love we gave to each other and reinforcing it.”

Years after their divorce, Seal admitted that he didn’t enjoy the renewals as they always turned into a spectacle.

Every vow renewal ceremony had a theme. One year, the theme was white trash. Klum wore her hair in cornrows and Seal fashioned a mullett as they tied the knot in a ceremony officiated by an Elvis impersonator.

The pair also had an ‘India’ themed renewal, as they fell in love with the country on a trip. They wore traditional Hindu wedding attire and married in a Hindu ceremony officiated by Indian priest Pandit Shailesh Tripathi, who was especially called from Indian holy city Varanasi to conduct the ceremony.

For their final vow renewal ceremony, the theme was ‘Brides and Grooms’. They had their guests dress as brides and grooms, and the minister was available to do vow renewals for anyone else who wanted them.

The pair filed for divorce in 2012, and it was finalized in 2014. They share four children together: Leni (her child with ex Flavio Briatore, who Seal legally adopted), Henry, Johan, and Lou.

Feature image: Pinterest

In News

Costa Rica has first legal same-sex marriage

May 27, 2020 No Comments

Costa Rica legalised same-sex marriage on Tuesday, May 16. At the stroke of midnight, couple Aritza Araya Arguedas and Alexandra Quirós Castillo became the first same-sex pair to legally tie the knot in the country.

The couple said ‘I do’ in San Isidro de Heredia, a town outside the capital, San Jose. The momentous wedding was broadcast on national television and live streamed on Facebook. Approximately 10 000 viewers from around the world tuned in to be a part of this historical moment.

“You have begun in law what has existed in love,” said officiant Ana Cecilia Castro Calzada. “We celebrate and honour this journey that you have made together as life companions in hope of a day like today: historic for you two and for Costa Rica.”

Take a look at the nuptials below:

Costa Rica is the first country in Central America and the sixth in Latin America to legalise same-sex marriage. Other Latin American countries where same-sex marriage is legal include Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Uruguay and some parts of Mexico.

The legalisation of same-sex marriage in Costa Rica comes after a years-long campaign spearheaded by pro-marriage-equality group Sí, Acepto. In August 2018, the constitutional court in Costa Rica declared that the ban on same-sex marriage was unconstitutional and discriminatory, and gave congress 18 months to change the law or else it would automatically happen. As the Legislative Assembly did not act, the ban was automatically nullified on May 26.

Feature image: screenshot from livestream

In Advice

Creative guest book ideas your guests will love

May 26, 2020 No Comments

A wedding guest book does not have to mean pen and paper only. As weddings evolve and modernise, couples are looking for more creative ways to still incorporate traditional elements into their big day.

The guest book allows you to preserve memories from your nearest and dearest. Traditionally, couples go for a hardcover book for guests to sign. However, this easily gets sidelined amid the various exciting points of a wedding.

Make sure your guest book is a moment itself by offering a fun and creative way to sign. Besides encouraging more people to sign, having an alternative guest book allows you to have a creative and functional decor piece to display in your home and remind you of the good times.

Here are some cute ideas:

For the record:

https://www.instagram.com/p/CAk3DYKg8je/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Shake it like a polaroid picture:

https://www.instagram.com/p/CAiedwxHdl6/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Wait a minute, Mr Postman:

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

The Bucket List:

https://www.instagram.com/p/CAdkjrTnO0I/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

You’re my world:

https://www.instagram.com/p/CAO2c4EgD9x/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Tile-tastic:

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bxko56hjNgS/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Pretty as a puzzle:

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bm0rBmUBj3g/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Let’s play a game:

https://www.instagram.com/p/CAhd4YSn6tm/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Take a seat:

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

Surf’s up:

https://www.instagram.com/p/BvW4OLNgXrE/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Feature image: Instagram

In News

Man ‘marries’ his cat for a good cause

May 26, 2020 No Comments

A California man said ‘I do’ to his pet cat this past weekend in a livestream ceremony, and no, not in a weird way. The ‘commitment ceremony’ was to raise funds for a local animal shelter where they first met.

Scott Perry found his beloved Olivia Le Chat at the Best Friends Animal Society NKLA five years ago. She quickly became an important part of his life.

“It was love at first sight! Well, sorta — Olivia hopped right into my girlfriend’s lap and right into our hearts! And then she hid under the bed for months,” says Perry on his website. “The girlfriend moved on but Olivia stayed, and as time went on, Olivia became less and less shy. Fast forward five years, and Olivia is more than happy to speak her mind, to wake me up to feed her and pet her in the early mornings, to let her out on the front porch for brushes in the sun and napping on the lounger, for evening biscuits on my tummy while I watch TV, and lots of treats and play time in between.”

Perry explains that he wanted to raise funds for the shelter and bring some happiness to the world during lockdown. So, he decided to have a commitment ceremony with Olivia. He even created a website with a wedding registry, for which he has a goal of raising $5000 to donate to the shelter.

“With the two of us locked down for the crisis, we decided to take the leap and make it official, by offering the world a bright spot to all the bad news out there and to raise money for the very place we met, Best Friends Animal Society NKLA.”

Perry says that having a pet is a huge commitment, much like marriage. You promise to take care of them and be there for them whenever they are in need. Thus, a commitment ceremony seemed fitting for them.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CASxdqsHR8b/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

The wedding streamed on 23 May on Perry’s Instagram Live. A black tie dress code was preferred, and pets were encouraged to dress up too.

Perry wore a tux and Oliva looked adorable in a flouncy white wedding dress. Watch the livestream here:

https://www.instagram.com/tv/CAirkJVnN3C/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/CAkpAj8nLnA/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Feature image: screenshot from livestream