Kirsten Jacobs, Author at Wedding ETC

In Announcements

Biggest celebrity engagements of 2019

December 5, 2019 No Comments

The year of 2019 has been a wild ride. We’ve seen ‘Old Town Road’ claim the charts for far too many weeks, Game of Thrones finally came to an end (and ruined the entire show but we’re not talking about that), and a host of our favourite celebrities got engaged.

Before we usher in the new decade, let’s take a look back at some of the biggest, most exciting celebrity engagements of 2019.

Jennifer Lopez and Alex Rodriguez

Back in March, the baseball star proposed to Jenny from the Block with a whopping 16-carat diamond ring estimated to cost somewhere between $1 million and $4.5 million.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Buzz2LMg92D/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Katy Perry and Orlando Bloom

The Pirates of the Carribbean actor proposed to his California Girl On Valentines Day, presenting her with a unique flower-shaped diamond ring.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bt5gRBDHNZl/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Tim Tebow and Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters

South Africa’s very own Miss Universe Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters captured the heart of American footballer Tim Tebow, and they got engaged in January 2019. Zavion Khotze will be planning the wedding, so you know it’s going to be stunning.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BsdzW9AB3Xx/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Princess Beatrice and Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi

Who doesn’t love a royal wedding? Back in September, Buckingham Palace confirmed that Princess Beatrice is engaged to property tycoon Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi. The wedding will take place in 2020.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B23uLfvn8Y3/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Cassie and Alex Fine

This couple has had a whirlwind romance. They began dating in late 2018, announced that they are expecting a child in June 2019, and got engaged in August. Their engagement, however, was short lived, and they wed in an intimate ceremony on September 25, a month and one day after they got engaged.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B1rHTYnJ6q9/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Sarah Hyland and Wells Adams

The Modern Family actress and Bachelorette alum have been giving us ultimate #couplegoals ever since they got together back in 2017 through the power of social media. They became engaged in July, proving that there is indeed love after The Bachelorette.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bz_tCLjlAM1/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Scarlett Johansson and Colin Jost

The traditionally private couple got engaged back in May when the Saturday Night Live writer and actor proposed to the Black Widow star with an 11-carat diamond engagement ring worth approximately $400,000.

https://www.instagram.com/p/By00y6TpVNn/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Hilary Duff and Matthew Koma

She’ll always be Lizzie McGuire to us, but now she’s all grown up and getting married! Duff became engaged to her singer-songwriter boyfriend, Matthew Koma, in May. The pair became parents to their first child together (and Duff’s second) in October 2018.

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

Chris Pratt and Katherine Schwarzenegger

After just a few months of dating, one of Hollywood’s favourite Chris’s popped the question to Katherine, daughter of Arnold Schwarzenegger and Maria Shriver. Of course, she said yes. The couple surprised us yet again by getting married in June in an intimate ceremony in Montecito, California.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bsmy0gUFIt7/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Image: Instagram / Jennifer Lopez

In News

Couple recycle to fund wedding

December 4, 2019 No Comments

Weddings are expensive, and saving money where you can is crucial. But have you ever considered saving the earth to save money? This couple did, and they were rewarded in more than just monetary value.

Ellie Toohill and Darren Auth Duke from Western Sydney decided to save money in an inventive way by recycling bottles to pay for their wedding. They travelled across Sydney collecting rubbish to deposit into a bottle vending machine. For every bottle they collect, they earn 10cents. While it doesn’t sound like much, it can add up very quickly.

Ellie Toohill and Darren Auth Duke Credit: Daily Mail

The couple collected bottles to fund their wedding. Credit: Daily Mail

They turned their backyard into a storage space where they separated their rubbish into special compartments for recycling. They also got their neighbors involved too, having them donate bottles to add.

Ellie and Darren even used social media to spread their cause. They created a Facebook page, called A recycling wedding Sydney, and used it to document their process.

They used an app to track their progress, through which they earned $7581, and another $3000 in printed receipts. With the money they were able to fund their wedding reception (planned for April 2020) and purchase their rings. They plan to do it all again to fund their honeymoon. Talk about something old, something new…

Image: Unsplash

In Advice

Modern wedding cake trends

December 4, 2019 No Comments

Modern couples are bold and not afraid to take risks, even with their weddings. The result? Unique elements that personalise their big day into memorable experiences, from the choice of shoe all the way to their wedding cakes.

Wedding cakes have been mainstays for decades, but their styles have changed so much. The simple, two-layer buttercream sweet treat doesn’t cut it any more. Modern times have seen multiple new wedding cake trends exist concurrently, each one appealing to specific tastes. From geometric designs to abstract art, wedding cakes are taking on a life of their own.

Geometric designs:

Characterised by geometric designs and bold symmetry, art deco has been given new life in this decade. Rather than the over-the-top, shiny look of yesteryear, this trend is much more simple to allow the geometry to stand out. Stick to no more than three key colours to maintain the sleek look.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B5TF8akl3JT/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B4YImNjD3VR/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B4Sux1zlH_5/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Square cakes:

Round cakes are so last decade. Square cakes have been trending for the last year, offering up an alternative shape and design that is wonderfully modern. Add florals to soften the look.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B4s5K-3ht00/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B4lFMA_gtKs/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B2jL41UlNAB/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Modern florals:

Florals and weddings go hand-in-hand. However, cake artists have taken this design to new heights, creating stunningly delicate sugarflowers placed artfully. The result is a stunningly modern yet soft cake.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B4HYmBOIg3y/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B3_vQR5A2NY/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B2R12F-jun_/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Texture:

Adding dimension is a simple way to elevate a cake. Take inspiration from these cakes that feature delicate ruffles and draping to add interest and sleek flair. This style is perfect for the understated couple who still want a showstoppingly unique cake.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B32oOB9JfrA/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B3LR2Nkly05/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B3TwTRVAeb6/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Abstract designs:

Abstract design is a hallmark trend of modernity. With simple yet impactful brushstrokes, a blank canvas can be transformed into a masterpiece. Keep the design to a specific spot or have it appear small with lots of white space to maintain a sleek, modern look.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bxf23NKnBls/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B4vG_g1hY5x/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B5iDxApgRp6/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Image: Unsplash

In Advice

Blazing a trail: Cannabis weddings

December 4, 2019 No Comments

Want to take your wedding to a higher level? Gather your best buds for an evening that incorporates CBD into your wedding decor and food. You’re ganja have a good time with these lit ideas.

CBD has been smoking hot in South Africa since marijuana was legalised for private use in 2018. From food to skincare, pretty much any product you need can list CBD as an ingredient. Since cannabis has become so mainstream, why not incorporate it in your wedding?

Kind Mind, a small American cannabis business, will soon be offering cannabis wedding planning and catering. In a Facebook post, the business shared some images on how they would incorporate the herb into your big day, and their ideas are far from half-baked.

From a Bud-bar to punny wedding favours, Kind Mind leaves us with high expectations.

South Africans wanting a cannabis-infused menu, we won’t leave you high and dry. Local green thumb and award-winning chef Matthew Smith’s budding new venture, Blazed and Infused, blends cannabis and cooking. Blazed and Infused offers private event catering with a unique THC twist. They even have a cannabis expert is on board to do infusion demonstrations to entertain your guests.

Cannabis-infused butter biscuits. Credit: Instagram / Blazed and Infused

THC infused bacon and sweet potato parcel. Credit: Instagram / Blazed and Infused

Contact: [email protected]

Website: https://blazedandinfused.co.za/

Image: Facebook / Kind Mind

In Advice

Christmas-inspired wedding decor

December 3, 2019 No Comments

‘Tis the season to be jolly. December brings happiness and the festive spirit as people all around the world get ready for one of the most popular holidays: Christmas. This month also doubles up as wedding season.

Many South Africans opt for December weddings as its the time most people are off from work and can travel. So why not hit two birds with one stone and have a Christmas-themed wedding?

Come on, get happy with these Christmas-inspired wedding decorations.

Invites:

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bn_M0E_jstp/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Ceremony decor:

https://www.instagram.com/p/B5lekReH0l1/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Seating guide:

https://www.instagram.com/p/B5lYVQjBYeG/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Plating:

https://www.instagram.com/p/B5iOPVxhF4b/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Decor piece:

https://www.instagram.com/p/B5lF45bgr7F/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Ceiling decor:

https://www.instagram.com/p/B5kj4rZF08J/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Cake:

https://www.instagram.com/p/B5io9W6BhEz/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Bouquet:

https://www.instagram.com/p/B5mZtueifV5/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Boutonnière:

https://www.instagram.com/p/B5lYNK5B0_7/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Image: Unsplash

In Advice

Elegant dresses for the minimalist bride

December 3, 2019 No Comments

As a bride, your wedding dress is your choice. Many of today’s brides follow the ‘bigger is better’ motto. Gowns are glamorously adorned with beads, feathers, tulle and lace to create a dramatic and dynamic finish. But many others are more attracted to the simple side of life.

If you’re not one for flounces and fancies, a minimalist dress might just be the one for you. Clean lines and simplistic designs allow focus to be on the bride rather than the outfit.

Take inspiration from these understated yet bold gowns.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BsvBlUhj58r/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B5k4lP6Hww9/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B5R58FmBh84/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B4x6Hchha79/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B4N9XbWg1IV/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B17QVMNpAQN/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B5au05Ihfeq/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B1bHKdAlXpO/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B5XhhdJhiY7/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B0NxE7VowkJ/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B5GJSxjD9ar/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Image: Unsplash

In Celebs

Nick Jonas, Priyanka Chopra celebrate 1-year anniversary

December 3, 2019 No Comments

One of Hollywood’s favourite couples, Nick Jonas and Priyanka Chopra, have just celebrated their one-year anniversary. Their touching tributes to each other prove that their love has only grown stronger.

Nick and Priyanka wed in spectacular fashion last year in a three-day wedding blending Hindu and Christian traditions. Fast forward one year, and the couple are still feeling the love. On Sunday December 2, both took to social media to proclaim their love for each other.

“One year ago today we said forever… well forever isn’t nearly long enough. I love you with all of my heart @priyankachopra happy anniversary,” wrote Nick.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B5ipkt5nav7/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

In her own post, Priyanka wrote, “My promise. Then..today.. forever. You bring me joy, grace, balance, excitement, passion.. all in the same moment…thank you for finding me..Happy First wedding anniversary Husband.. @nickjonas ❤️? And Thank you to everyone for the love and good wishes. We feel blessed.”

https://www.instagram.com/p/B5i5BuUnKqV/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Image: Instagram / Priyanka Chopra

In Celebs

Tumi Morake and Mpho Osie-Tutu celebrate decade of marriage

December 2, 2019 No Comments

Award-winning comedian Tumi Morake and her husband, Mpho Osie-Tutu, have just reached a milestone. The famous South African couple recently celebrated their 10-year wedding anniversary, and they seem just as loved up as when they first started.

Taking to Instagram, Morake posted a heartfelt message to her husband. Along with an adorable picture from their wedding day, she wrote, “#tbt #throwback to 28 November 2009 when my bff @mphooseitutu and I got married! 10 years of growth, love and blessings. Woooooo baby we made it to the double digits ????? #blessed #awesometutus #betweentwotutus #love #anniversary”

https://www.instagram.com/p/B5ZfyRIHErY/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Congrats to the happy couple!

Image: Instagram / Tumi Morake

In Advice

How to keep your (soon-to-be) family-in-law happy

November 29, 2019 No Comments

So you’re engaged, and although it’s an exciting and thrilling time for both you and your significant other, conflict is bound to arise, often in the form of your soon-to-be family-in-law. Some cases may be worse than others, but we’d like to help you lessen the load. Read on for some practical tips and thoughts on how to keep them happy, and, appropriately involved.

Acceptance

First of all, you need to make peace with the fact that your wedding planning journey will come with a fair share of stress, drama and mishaps, but all of this could be managed easily by not stressing about the things you cannot change. That goes for the family you’re marrying into as well. If you’ve known the person you’re marrying for a good amount of time, you probably know their family too – including their habits and preferences. Just because you’re getting married doesn’t mean those things will change, so make it easier for yourself by making peace with it – you’d want your S.O to do the same for you.

You marry the family, too.

That said, your new spouse’s family is accepting a new member into theirs, as your family is too, so be mindful about including them in the planning process. Your wedding is a celebration of not only two people coming together, but two families uniting, so they need to feel that their opinions matter too. This doesn’t mean that you have to take every suggestion they make to heart, but they’ll feel much more included if you make an effort to hear them out and make some compromises.

Take a stand

Sometimes, keeping the peace means taking a stand. It’s extremely difficult to avoid hurting the feelings of someone who simply wants to help, but sometimes their need to help is greater than your need for it. Don’t allow yourself to get into a situation too deep before realising that you’re allowing things to happen that will ultimately make you unhappy. Say no when you need to, but explain your feelings and reasoning behind it so that a mutual understanding can be reached.

Same page

You and your S.O absolutely need to be on the same page when it comes to making the decisions in your planning process. This will allow you to adequately explain your reasoning to your families, without throwing anyone under the bus. However, if your parents are paying for some parts of the wedding, you need to be on the same page with them too. Be open about what you want, your visions and expectations to avoid unnecessary conflict, especially if you’re not the one paying for it.

Lessen the load

Just because it’s your wedding doesn’t mean you have to plan, take care of and do everything. Make your vision clear and allow your mother-in-law, father-in-law or whoever-in-law to help you out with making calls, DIY projects, collections or whatever it is you may need. This will allow them to feel involved, but not in an overwhelming way where they have the ability to make decisions for you. However, looking at the other side of the spectrum could be just as tricky. Maybe your father-in-law is great at building things with his hands, but up until now you haven’t been getting along that well. Take the plunge and ask him for help with your DIY projects – it might be the starting point for the relationship you’ve been looking for.

Image: Pexels

In Advice

Dresses we love: One-shoulder

November 29, 2019 No Comments

Glamorous and sensual, the one-shoulder gown is perfect for the bride wanting to make a statement. Go understated with a simplistic silhouette or bold with a beaded beauty.

Take inspiration from these gorgeous gowns:

https://www.instagram.com/p/B3olmaWh_F8/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B3S19RRlNAk/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B0UYXjcFN7J/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/Ba9SS-NBnFp/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/BCLVerCoKr8/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B2xmx-8D3Ya/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B4vNZ30n4SD/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bwu4YdSHaxj/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B3wyzQoDFQw/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Image: Pexels