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Kirsten Jacobs

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In Advice

How to cure the wedding hangover

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This is not your grandmother’s hangover we’re taking about it. Wedding hangovers mean something different to wedding professionals. Theirs is a kind that does not rely on the consumption of alcohol.

The process of planning a wedding is exhausting. Those who commonly facilitate them, like wedding planners, photographers and event coordinators, experience a range of tough physical symptoms following wedding days. Because they don’t really get formal breaks on the day, wedding vendors often push their bodies to the max when they’re working.

“Those of us who facilitate a wedding day are on our feet for hours – HOURS – at a time,” explains Rachel E.H from Rachel E.H Photography. “We’re rushing around, the adrenaline is pumping, we’re contorting our bodies in weird positions (at least us photogs & videographers are), we’re being personable & friendly, barely getting time to eat or drink, and keeping an eye on a million things at once it feels like. Our switch is basically in the ON position all day long.”

“The second the day is over – literally to the second – our bodies know the fun is over, the adrenaline shuts off, and the pain sets in. We realize our feet have swollen to three times their normal size, our backs ache, our shoulders are hunched, our hands are cramped, and we feel like we just aged about 30 years.”

It’s not just wedding professionals who experience this. More and more, newlyweds are relating to this post-nuptial pain. From aching feet, headaches, dehydration and sore muscles, the wedding hangover is real.

Here are some handy tips to keep you in fighting form the day of and post-wedding:

The day of:

– Drink LOTS of water:

We know, we know. Drinking water is the number one tip for curing pretty much anything. Want clearer skin? Drink water. Want to lose weight? Drink more water. Humble H2O is constantly brought up because it truly is the cure. Water flushes out body waste, helps maintain blood pressure, aids in cognitive function and delivers oxygen throughout the body. Perfect for an aching body to quicken recovery.

– Wear comfortable shoes:

While heels are a popular shoe choice for brides, they’re not the greatest for your feet. Before the wedding, make sure to break your shoes in if they’re new. The best course of action is to keep a second pair of comfortable shoes for midway through your reception. Believe us, your feet will be begging you for flats at this point.

– Eat a nutritious meal:

It is imperative to fuel up before your wedding. To avoid crashing mid day, skip foods high in sugar. You’ll want to enjoy a hearty breakfast that will give your enough energy for the day ahead. Think complex carbs, protein and healthy fats.

Post wedding:

– Massage:

Your body probably has all sorts of aches and pains from all your wedding day standing and dancing. Treat yourself to a couple’s massage the day after to relax your muscles. This doubles up as a great bonding experience with your love.

– Avoid alcohol:

We know this is asking a lot, but it’s all for your benefit. Alcohol lowers blood sugar, which can result in fatigue, cravings and irritability. All theses sensations will just worsen your wedding hangover. So make sure to replace your mimosa with something natural like tea.

– Sleep:

Sometimes, the best course of action is to do nothing. Give your body a chance to recover by sleeping the day away.

 

Image: Unsplash

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In Emotional

Couple get married mid-flight

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Forget about the mile high club, this couple is in a league of their own. In what is to be believed a world first, this couple got married mid-flight in celebration of their mutual love of aviation.

For David and Cathy Valliant, aviation has always been a special part of their relationship. The couple met for the first time back in 2013 at Sydney Airport after a year of chatting online. David had even intended to propose on board a flight but at the last minute lost his nerve.

“Our love of aviation is what brought us together,” Cathy told CNN Travel.

Naturally, when they got engaged, there was no better place to say ‘I do’ than up in the air.

As Cathy is from New Zealand and David is from Australia, the couple wanted to get married in between their home countries. So, they decided to tie the knot at the halfway mark on board a Jetstar Flight 201 from Sydney to Auckland.

“We wanted it to symbolize our love for aviation, our love for Australia and New Zealand and our love for each other. I thought: I’ll be cheeky and ask Jetstar,” Cathy said. “Without telling Dave, I posted on Jetstar’s Facebook page with the question. I was so excited when they said they’d see what they could do.”

Jetstar pulled out the stops to make this couples dream a reality.

“When New Zealander, Cathy and David from Australia told us that they wanted to get married in-between their two countries, we knew we had to help make their dream come true,” the airline wrote on their Facebook page. “In what we believe to be a world first, the couple exchanged vows on a Jetstar flight, 34,000 feet above the Tasman.”

Watch the video below:

https://www.facebook.com/JetstarAustralia/videos/544942566063897/

The couple had their legal ceremony on land at Sydney airport, followed by their special airborne ceremony. Ground crew member Robyn Holt acted as the wedding officiant.

“Being a part of Cathy and David’s day and celebrating their love and their passion for aviation was unforgettable,” said Holt. “The passengers enjoyed being a part of it, too. As an airline we love bringing people together, and this was one of my most memorable wedding celebrations.”

“It was the most amazing experience and something we will remember for the rest of our lives,” said Cathy Valliant in a statement.

Image: Facebook / Jetstar Australia

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In News

Couple throws Back to the Future-themed wedding

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Movies truly do hold a special place in our hearts. From teaching us lessons to creating friendships with fellow fans, movies can change our lives. One such movie, Back to the Future, did just that. This couple loved the 8os trilogy so much that they planned their wedding around it.

For Lynsey and James McConville from Stratford, East London, Back to the Future has always been an integral part of their relationship. Their first date, in fact, was to watch the 1980 classic. So when James proposed and they began planning their wedding, they knew the classic film had to be incorporated somehow.

“We were both born in the 1980s and have fond memories of all the retro toys and the films, so the Back to the Future theme felt perfect for us,” Lynsey told the Daily Mail.

They dropped a pretty £10,000 (R162 333) to make their dream wedding come true. Their wedding theme was ‘Enchantment Under the Sea’, in honour of the classic dance from the film. James channelled Marty McFly with his choice of shoe wear, donning a pair of light-up warrior sneakers.

“We had an 80s buffet with cocktail sausages on sticks, vol au vents and party rings and a cocktail menu with themed drinks like the Marty Mojito, Sex in a DeLorean and Clock Tower Cosmo,” said Lynsey.

The wedding band played 80s classics throughout the evening, and the day came complete with the original DeLorean from the film. Their wedding cake also featured the DeLorean in miniature form, popping out the side of the cake.

“I think it went down really well with the guests, everyone thought it was funny and loved the 80s music. It turned into a big knees up,” Lynsey told the Daily Mail. “Guests got to have photos in the original DeLorean, which had been signed by all the cast members.”

“The original plan was to have a themed ‘save the date’ card, then it grew from there – snowballing until we had a DeLorean pulling up outside,” said James. “It was the best day ever. Dancing to Popgun with my wife and friends – you couldn’t beat it.”

Image: Unsplash

 

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In Advice

Vintage-inspired wedding dresses

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The timeless bride deserves a dress to match. From Gatsby glamour to Victorian silhouettes, there is a wealth of fashion inspiration from yesteryear.

Get inspired by the trends of the past when picking your dress for the big day. The focal trends will differ depending on your favourite era, so the best plan of action is to do your research.

Victorian:

The Victorian-era was all about drama in a modest fashion. Women wore pouffed out dresses adorned with lace and romantic charm. Opt for a high-neck, lace number to harken back to a Victorian style.

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Gatsby:

When we picture the roaring 20s, we envision opulence, flash and drama. A time of decadence, 20s fashion reflected of the spirit of bold women. Think elaborate beading and geometric designs for a flapper-inspired 20’s look.

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60s bohemian:

The 60s was all about peace and love. Boho fashion entered the mainstream during this time, dressing women in flowing fabrics and unique lace/crochet detailing. Channel your inner hippie with these elaborate looks.

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Image: Unsplash

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In Advice

Louisvale: love in the winelands

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Romance among the vines, what more could you ask for? South Africans and international couples alike have been choosing from the country’s many beautiful wine farms as wedding venues. For a modern yet traditional venue, look no further than the luxurious Louisvale wine farm.

Located in the picturesque Devon Valley area of the Stellenbosch wine district, Louisvale carves its own spot in the fluctuating foothills of the 3-million-year-old Cape Folded Mountains.

A distinct history is honoured here.  The first man-made structures in the area were created by the Nomadic Khoekhoen. Their designs typically featured domed structures resembling tortoises and made from Taaibos laths covered with woven reed mats and animal skins. When the European settles arrived in the 17th century, they brought with them Cape Dutch architecture.

Louisvale as we know it today combines these design aesthetics: Neo Cape Dutch meets modern Khoekhoen architecture. With a Rheinzink dome roof, open spaces, floating glass and a stunning concrete floor infused with abalone shell chips, the function area is nothing short of breathtaking.

The original manor house still stands proud, perfectly juxtaposing the modern function area with its traditional gables and lime washed, plastered walls.

It’s easy to see why Louisvale would make the perfect wedding venue. Couples can have their wedding ceremony outdoors with an impressive 280° view of the winelands, then move their wedding indoors for the reception. With floating glass windows that can be slid open, there is no sacrificing the incredible view.

It costs R50 000 to rent out the venue for the day, which includes all existing furnitures, tables, ceremony chairs, standard cutlery and glassware and exclusive use for the day. The bridal party organises their own decor and can bring in third suppliers for whatever they desire.

For in-house catering, Louisvale’s menu’s start at R500 per head depending on the final menu selected. And believe us, you’ll want them to cater. From grilled lamb steak on a bed of creamy polenta to confit duck leg with butternut puree and a citrus glaze, their dishes will have your guests’ mouths watering.

Louisvale is well-known for their high quality wines, many of which are award-winning. From Chardonnay to Merlot, every wine is expertly crafted by winemaker Simon Smith to suit multiple taste palettes.

Louisvale is perfect for the modern-yet-traditional couple. Ring in your nuptials at this beautiful venue for a memorable day and even more memorable views.

For queries and inquiries on holding your wedding at Louisvale, please contact [email protected]

Address: Devon Valley Rd, Devonvallei, Stellenbosch

Trading hours: Monday to Saturday from 10am – 4pm.

Image: Instagram

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In Engagements

KFC couple to wed in December

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South Africa’s favourite couple have officially set a date for the wedding of the year. Hector Mkansi and Nonhlanhla Soldaat are officially getting married on December 31, 2019.

In a tweet, KFC South Africa officially announced that Hector and Nonhlanhla, who stole our hearts when they became engaged in a Vaal KFC in early November, will say ‘I Do’ on New Year’s Eve.

The couple are already married, but because of their financial situation, they could not have the wedding they truly wanted. This time, they’re doing it big and the nation is fully behind them.

Precious the Planner, one of the country’s top wedding planners, is already on board to plan the big day.

Other notable businesses that have offered support include Takealot, Capfin, Kulula, Sun City Resort, Koo Food.

Popular photographer Austin Malema has offered to be the official photographer, DJ Fresh has offered to donate a DJ set for the reception, and Zakes Bantwini has offered to perform at the wedding.

Drum magazine has offered a two-page spread on the couple, and it is rumoured that Mzanzi Magic’s Our Perfect Wedding will capture the wedding in all its glory.

It’s not only businesses feeling the love. People are offering to support in any way they can, from donating money to supplying cars, outfits, accessories, invites and drinks.

If you would also like to support the happy couple, all media queries, donations and pledges can be directed to [email protected].

Image: Twitter

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In Advice

Top 10 things for couples to do in Mauritius

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For a romantic honeymoon destination, look no further than Mauritius. The Indian Ocean island has been a mainstay with South African couples for decades and it’s easy to see why. With stunning beach views and romantic activities, there is no end to the fun and flirty things to do with your significant other. Here are some must-do activities for your next island escape.

1: Sundowners on Belle Mare Beach

A beautiful view and your favourite person is sometimes all you need. Enjoy delicious beverages while taking in one of the island’s most picturesque beaches. With long stretches of pristine white sand, the turquoise sea and crystal clear water surrounded by large casuarina trees, you’ll round out your day on a high note.

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2: Stroll hand-in-hand through Pamplemousses Botanical Garden

This corner of paradise is the oldest botanical garden in the southern hemisphere, which makes it a definite must-see. Marvel at the amazing collection of 85 types of palm trees, the spice garden and of course, the giant waterlillies on show at this noteworthy natural location.

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3: Horse ride on Riemdael Beach

Romance and horse riding go hand-in-hand. Add the beach to the equation and you’re golden. When in Mauritius, make sure to go on a scenic horseback ride with your love to make you feel like you’re the main characters in your very own romance novel.

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4: Explore Chamarel Waterfall

The country’s tallest waterfall makes for a perfect daytime activity. Wade through the chilly waters with your partner while relishing in the green foliage and dense forest that surround you.

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5: Sunset Catamaran Cruise

Live a life of luxury – at least for a little while – aboard a catamaran cruise. Mauritius is best seen from the water, so you simply cannot miss this opportunity. While catamaran cruises generally run all day, going at sunset guarantees stunningly soft skies and cooler weather. It’s the perfect time to cuddle up and enjoy the best of what nature has to offer.

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6: Helicopter tour of the ‘Underwater Waterfall’

For a truly mesmerising view, you have to go high. This curious natural phenomenon is actually an optical illusion. Mauritius sits on an ocean shelf raised above seabed level, with a gradual slope that abruptly ends in a 4000-meter-deep abyssal drop. The movement of sand and silt on this slope causes the water to appear different colours, thus creating the effect of an underwater waterfall. What a memorable marvel to witness.

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7: Spend the day at Ile aux Cerfs

Popularly known as the Treasure Island, Ile aux Cerfs is a privately-owned island home to some of the world’s best beaches. Spend the day engaging in the various water sports and beach activities offered on the island. From getting around in glass-bottom boats to snorkeling in the crystal-clear water, you and your partner will absolutely fall in love with this island.

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8: Sleep under the stars

For a romantic night, Ile Aux Cerf Golf Club is a must-stay. The resort offers their bubble lodge, an outdoor residence fitted with a lounge area, a cozy bedroom, a washroom and an open sky shower. Each unit has been tastefully decorated combining earthy tones and natural fabrics.

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9: Hike up Le Morne mountain

A hike might not sound that romantic, but we promise it will be worth it. Once you reach the summit of Le Morne, the view of Mauritius spreading out in front of you will take your breath away.

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10: Witness the Coloured Earth of Chamarel

They say that red is the colour of love, so why not go where the hue surrounds you? Seven Coloured Earths are a truly exquisite natural geological formation where rainbow-hued sand dunes undulate and settle in separate layers.

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Image: Unsplash

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Couple keeps wedding vows in Build-a-Bear

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Ah, young love. Often characterised by high drama and intensity, most high school relationships aren’t built to last. This couple, however, always knew that they were meant to be. So much so that five years before they even got engaged, they wrote their wedding vows and stored them for safe keeping inside Build-a-Bears.

Back in 2014, high school sweethearts Alyssa and Chase Smagacz went on a Valentines Day date to Build-a-Bear in celebration of their one-year anniversary. Chase had the idea that they should each write promises to the other person and stuff them inside their bears. Five years later, those exact promises became their wedding vows.

The night before their wedding, they took turns to read the messages to each other in private at their wedding rehearsal. Then at the wedding, they read them out in front of their closest friends and family, along with a new set of vows.

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“Through the rough times we’ve had, we always come out stronger together. No matter what I will always love you. Through the thick & thin, good or bad, you will be the love of my life,” Chase wrote in his vows. “You make me the happiest person in the world!”

Watch the heartwarming video below:

https://www.instagram.com/p/B3DTwBWgkM5/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

The vows, which were a complete surprise to their wedding guests, proved to Alyssa and Chase that the journey was all worth it, despite what people told them.

“We felt very doubted in high school as everyone thinks it’s just like a relationship that’ll last through high school,” Alyssa told Good Morning America. “When we got to open (the Build-A-Bears), it was kind of like, ‘OK, we made it here.'”

Image: Instagram / Alyssa Smagacz

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In Fashion

World’s first reversible bridal collection

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In recent years, a trend has emerged where brides wear two dresses on their big day: one for their ceremony and another for the reception. However, this can become quite costly. Luckily, this inventive New Zealand-based designer developed a way around this by creating the world’s first reversible bridal collection.

Trish Peng was inspired by one of her brides to create her new line.

“The reversible dress idea came to life after one of my custom brides couldn’t decide between a lace or plain dress, but she knew exactly what silhouette she wanted,” Peng told Daily Mail Australia. “At her first fitting I was like, ‘why don’t we do both?! I will figure it out!’ So the idea of having two dresses in one was born. You simply flip it and reverse it, one for the ceremony, the other for the reception.”

The 2020 Reflections collection, which first featured at New York Bridal Fashion Week in October, features 11 versatile wedding gowns to offer brides multiple dress options in one.

“Introducing our brand new 2020 Reflections collection that features 11 reversible and versatile styles all inspired and named after our brides,” reads Peng’s website. “The gowns are available in every silhouette, they can be worn multiple ways, and you can even select your own fabric.”

One side typically features one crepe (or any plain fabric) side and one lace (any lace) side.

Image: Instagram / Trish Peng

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In Bridal Party

Bride buys pit bull matching wedding dress

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You’ve heard of miniature brides, but this one is pretty paw-some. Although it’s generally considered disrespectful to wear white to a wedding, this bride made a special exception for her cute little pup.

They say that dogs are man’s best friend, so why not include them in your wedding? That’s the exact thought New York-based bride Jennifer Hindieh, now Najman, and her then-fiancé Alexander Najman had. Their family of three was made when they adopted their adorable pit bull Bailey, who has since been there for every important moment in their lives.

“She’s pretty much my little partner in crime, my best friend, like our kid. She completely changed our lives from the day we adopted her,” Jennifer told I Love Dogs. “We love giving her the best life she can have and wouldn’t feel right not having her be a part of our wedding.”

So when wedding planning came around, they decided that Bailey should match her mom in a wedding dress of her own. Bailey’s custom made wedding dress was ordered from Etsy, and featured a ruffle skirt with diamante applique.

“I decided to get her a dress because honestly, she is my family, my baby and our life with her is what makes every day so special,” Jennifer told The Dodo.

Bailey looked absolutely adorable as she walked down the aisle alongside her mom. We’re sure the wedding was a barking good time.

Image: Instagram / baileythehousehippo

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