Lynn Cupido, Author at Wedding ETC

In Advice

Wedding dress inspiration straight from Bridal Fashion Week 2022

April 14, 2022 No Comments

There are some brides that simply know what they want their wedding dress to look like. However, there are a few brides-to-be who need a little nudge towards inspiration, and there’s nothing more inspiring than the latest wedding gowns from Bridal Fashion Week.

The crème de la crème of the fashion world came together to grace us with the most fabulous and on-trend designs – the perfect way to find inspiration for your upcoming nuptials.

Here are a few of our favourite designs from Bridal Fashion Week’s Spring Collection:

Anne Barge

Mira Zwillinger

Zuhair Murad

Ines Di Santo

Reem Acra

Galia Lahav

Savannah Miller

Galvan Bridal

Halfpenny London

Elie Saab

Monique Lhuillier

Feature Image: Monique Lhuillier

In Decor

Go big or go home! Tall table centrepieces to add to your wedding decor

April 12, 2022 No Comments

“The devil is in the details,” and boy, can planning a wedding sometimes feel like taking a quick trip to hell if you don’t have the right support. I’m sure I don’t need to tell you how stressful planning your impending nuptials can be, but with so many details to think about, some things can slip through the cracks.

One detail that’s not always necessary, but that’s great to include if you’re looking to have your guests “ooh” and “ahh” is the centrepiece. An interesting fact is that a table centrepiece is often overlooked by brides and planners.

Who wants to talk over a ginormous centrepiece, right? But despite a few cons, a table centrepiece is a fantastic way to elevate your wedding theme, adding a little je ne sais quois to your already incredible event.

Go big or go home you say? If you’re looking to add a little drama to your wedding – with decor, that is – adding a tall centrepiece can be a great way to add that pop you’re looking for.

Take what resonates and toss what doesn’t! Here are a few tall centrepiece ideas that will steal your heart as they have mine:

A drama that’s subtle

A dramatic centrepiece that offers a subtle touch. Bridal couples looking to keep things simple when their guests sit down will certainly love this minimalist geometric design. Keep it elegant with gold and floral trimmings.

A reception by candlelight

There’s something cosy yet alluring about a candle and flame. After all, don’t all romances start after an intimate candlelit dinner? This amazing design keeps things simple, using levels to add a subtle drama that’s not too much while the addition of greenery and flowers beautifully tie things together.

A whimsical addition

I love the idea of bringing nature into the mix, and this tall centrepiece is certainly perfect for nature lovers looking to bring the outdoors inside. Wisteria can be a great addition for bridal couples looking to add more romance to an already romantic setting. The best part? Your guests will definitely be able to see and talk to each other.

Keep it traditional

Looking to make a statement but hoping to keep it traditional? This floral design, which is mixed with classic white blooms and pops of purple and pink will provide a striking arrangement while allowing you to stick to something more traditional.

Fancy grass

I have a confession to make. I’m a little obsessed with pampas grass. There’s something so subtly elegant and fancy about it… it must be the feather-like texture that this plant offers. Nonetheless, it can be a gorgeous addition to your guests’ table. Similar to this design, all you need is a tall stand and as many pampas grass as you can dream of. They’re also pretty affordable to purchase, so we’re winning!

There’s nothing wrong with simple

Sometimes it’s okay to let your gorgeous venue do all the talking. This simple table centrepiece adds a little light and romance and ensures that the decor does all the talking. While there’s nothing wrong with going big, this design proves that simplicity can often speak louder.

Feature Image: Elizabeth Wells Photography

In Advice

A ‘modern fairytale’ Brooklyn Beckham and Nicola Peltz tie the knot

April 11, 2022 No Comments

Classy, sophisticated, posh. All three of these words mean the exact same thing but somehow manage to individually encompass the essence of the always fabulous Beckhams.

In 1999, David and Victoria Beckham solidified their status as pop culture icons following their Robin Hood themed wedding. Fashionistas and brides-to-be around the world couldn’t get enough of Victoria’s tightly fitted corset by English corsetiere, Mr Pearl, a gorgeous piece that she wore under her ballgown.

Nearly two decades later and another Beckham appears to be inspiring future brides and grooms. In a lavish $3.5 million “modern fairytale” wedding, Brooklyn Beckham and Nicola Peltz said their “I dos” in front of family and friends in what many are describing as simply “magical.”

The ceremony was said to be a star-studded affair with Serena Williams and Eva Longoria making an appearance at the $103 million venue in Palm Beach, which happened to be billionaire Nelson Peltz’s (Nicola’s father) compound.

Along with the who’s who of the celebrity world, British Vogue had a front-row seat to the couple’s nuptials, sharing a plethora of snaps and noting: ‘It’s the stuff that modern fairytales are made of: a beautiful blonde film star meets a handsome young scion of one of Britain’s most famous – and fashionable – families, sparks fly, and a truly 21st-century romance unfolds.’

While there are many elements that make a wedding magical, all eyes were undoubtedly on Nicola’s custom-made Valentino wedding gown – a culmination of a years’ worth of conversations between the bride, Peltz’s stylist and the creative team at Valentino.

The result has been the blushing bride’s “dream dress” with countless snaps showcasing the sheer elegance of this masterpiece.

A cute little inclusion featured the bride’s dress is adorned with an evil eye symbol and included a message from her mother which the Valentino team stitched with blue thread – for that something blue.

The world was treated to new images of the newlyweds which came after Brooklyn uploaded the first shot from their wedding on Sunday, a black and white image of the pair that he captioned: ‘Mr. & Mrs Peltz Beckham.’

The images are breathtaking and ooze old Hollywood. However, Peltz appears to have taken some inspiration from the 90s with Vogue noting that the bride’s hair was styled as “an ode to Claudia Schiffer in the ‘90s.”

“It was all about keeping her hair beautiful, soft and smooth. ”Think luxe, polished texture, but with fullness and movement to it,” said Adir Abergel, Nicola’s hairstylist.

A natural look was chosen for the day and offered a fresh, natural look that was barely there but provided a few details that ensured her features would pop under the veil.

The result? A gorgeous bride, a magical day and a happy groom. Is there anything more perfect than that?

Congratulations to the happy couple!

Picture: British Vogue

In Weddings

A testament to love: Ukrainian couple gets married in building destroyed by war

April 7, 2022 No Comments

What’s that epic phrase from Interstellar?

“Love is the one thing we’re capable of perceiving that transcends dimensions of time and space.”

One incredible couple is giving a new meaning to this quote, proving that not even war can stop love.

Anastasia and Anton Sokolov from Ukraine got married in a country that is currently under attack due to the invasion of Russia.

The video of the couple getting married tugs at the heartstrings and really puts a few things in perspective. The newlyweds said their “I dos” in a subway against a historical building that appears to have been destroyed by the war.

Anton and Anastasia have no plans to go on a honeymoon anytime soon. One day, they want to go somewhere with a beach and palm trees. Before that happens, there is a war to win, and brutal days ahead. But yesterday, there was hope, and beauty, and love inside the ugliness. pic.twitter.com/4WNT42KfiE

— Maria Avdeeva (@maria_avdv) April 4, 2022

Also read: A roaring proposal! A lion joined this Cape Town couple’s engagement

The couple shared this magical moment with civilians and journalists who managed to join in and capture this unusual moment.

No wedding cake, no A-line fitted wedding dress, and no wedding band – just a simple affair that celebrates love, especially during a time that is filled with so much sadness and destruction.

The bride wore a cream-like silk dress with a layer of tulle fabric that ensured she looked like a bride – not forgetting the veil! Her beaming face was framed with a gorgeous flower crown that paired perfectly with the bouquet of tulips in her hand.

The groom looked handsome yet casual. He wore a loose-fitting white shirt and a black jacket and trousers.

While it may not be the ideal setting or time, this incredible moment showcases that love has no reason, no boundaries and no distance.

In Engagements

A roaring proposal! A lion joined this Cape Town couple’s engagement

April 5, 2022 No Comments

While a couple were in the midst of a marriage proposal, a few seconds after the bride-to-be said ‘yes’, a lion stepped onto the scene to join in on the magic, and let out a roar (possibly of approval if this were a Disney movie) moments after the two became fianceés.

The moment took place in the Kgalagadi at the Cape Town couple’s campsite in Botswana.

According to John Peiser, he had heard a roar in the distance and decided it was the perfect moment to propose to his fiance, Sandy.

“Mr. Lion must have told a friend, as a lioness came into our camp the very next evening, more or less the same time!” John recalled speaking to Latest Sightings.

Footage was captured of the special moment, and it stands as just one of many magical moments in the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park.

WATCH: Lions during the proposal aftermath

Feature Image: Screenshot

In Destination

Botswana’s Tuli Game Reserve – Say ‘I do’ in the heart of nature

March 17, 2022 No Comments

There’s something magical about saying “I do“ under a canopy of indigenous fauna and flora, the burnt-orange sun setting in the background and an endless array of wildlife as bystanders.

And there’s certainly nothing more magical than Botswana.

Home to the best wilderness and wildlife spots on the African continent, Botswana is a dream for wedding couples looking to tie the knot and immerse themselves in nature.

While the Okavango Delta may be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of nature and Southern Africa, it’s the unsurpassed natural beauty of Tuli Private Game Reserve that will truly steal your heart.

The destination – Tuli Game Reserve

Featuring 72 000 hectares of unadulterated beauty, this privately-owned land in the north-eastern sector of Botswana’s Tuli Block offers a timeless African experience.

But this wild stretch of land goes beyond offering picturesque views of rugged landscapes, flowing rivers and a region teeming with wildlife, it also provides one of its shiniest gems – the Africa Experience.

The Africa Experience features excellent wilderness retreats, specialised private African safaris, interactive research participation, and now, a wedding venue. Nestled between the lush greenery of the Tuli and perched on the banks of the Limpopo River, lovebirds have the opportunity to plan a wedding ceremony that they will never forget.

Accommodation options come in the form of Koro River Camp, beautifully appointed tented master suites that offer fantastic views, and Koro Island Camp, four simple yet elegant tented en-suites. It’s the perfect spot for newlyweds looking to stay and enjoy the beauty of the region a little longer.

The Wedding Experience

The bridal couple and guests will be treated to a three-day wedding extravagant, in the heart of the bush. Doesn’t get much better than this, right? Wrong!

Africa Experience offers couples the chance to spend some quality time with loved ones with a fully inclusive three-night stay for a maximum of 30 pax.

Breakfast, pre-wedding dinner, a spa day for the ladies and a morning walk for the guys are just a few amazing activities you’ll get to indulge in with your guests. The ceremony and reception will take place at the gorgeous River Camp, perfect for those eager to enjoy the sweet sounds of Mother Nature and incredible views over the river. Fall asleep to the wonders of the universe as you top this experience off with an incredible sleep out under the stars!

Depart with your heart full and stomach full as you enjoy breakfast at the camp.

Newlyweds eager to spend a little extra time enjoying this part of the world can stay on for their honeymoon.

For the ecologically conscious bride and groom, the Africa Experience prides itself in being at the forefront of conservation tourism and this ethos is at the heart of their operations, having established the foundation, TIMBO AFRIKA.

This incredible foundation funds and supports numerous conservation and community projects, including an accredited PhD level field study, which focuses on the ecology of leopards and hyenas of the Tuli.

What’s more, bridal couples staying at the camps have the opportunity to get their hands dirty by joining in with monitoring activities and field observations – if that’s not an incredible way to spend your honeymoon, then we don’t know what is!

With conservation and community at the heart of everything they do, there’s no better place to say “I do” than at this incredible wedding destination.

To find out more, head to their website.

In Weddings

Stepping away from tradition: Wedding ceremony rituals that symbolise unity

March 16, 2022 No Comments

While saying “I do” is a magical experience that inherently symbolises love, sometimes bridal couples are looking to step away from tradition and personalise their wedding experience… spice things up, even.

If you’re looking to put a unique spin on your upcoming wedding ceremony, why not incorporate various rituals from around the world that embody the very meaning of marriage: unity.

Here are a few traditional and modern rituals that encompass this very word, and provide a foundation for couples looking to incorporate something a bit more unique when it comes to their nuptials.

Take what resonates and toss what doesn’t, here are six creative wedding rituals that are well about two partners in love:

Jump the broom

Jumping the broom has its roots in African American culture, but the meaning behind this ritual is universal. The ritual originated in the early 19th century when slaves were not formally allowed to get married.

Instead, couples looking to get married would place a broom on the ground and hop over it together. The tradition has now come to mean a “brushing away” of the parts and starting things on a clean slate.

Releasing butterflies

contemporary and traditional wedding rituals — Pinterest

Is there anything more romantic than rose petals and butterflies? Butterflies often represent change, hope, life and transformation, and there’s nothing more transformational than getting married.

Releasing butterflies at your wedding ceremony is meant to encompass all of these elements as you start your journey as newlyweds.

Light a candle

This tradition is often associated with the Judeo-Christian faith and is a common practice that’s associated with “two becoming one.”

During the ceremony, the bride and groom each light a candle and combine their flame to ignite a third and larger one.

Handfasting

This is a beautiful ritual that stems from an ancient Celtic tradition of the same name. Basically, it sees the bride and groom hold opposite hands, ensuring that their arms are tied together lie a figure eight before it is tied together with a ribbon – ultimately symbolising union.

The fabric is also great to keep and pass down to your children.

Plant a tree

Watching something grow can be a beautiful experience. Similar to the love that is shared between two partners, the physical symbol of a tree growing from a sapling into a strong tree can represent growth and strength between partners.

A great way to include this ritual into your ceremony is by having the bridal couple scoop a handful of soil and add it to their planted tree.

Create a time capsule

Time capsules are not just for keeping kids entertained. Add a bunch of meaningful items into a box – items that are specific to you and your spouse – and nail it shut together.

This new and different ritual is all about doing something together. You can open this in the next 10 years or on your one year anniversary.

Picture: Laurken Kendall

In Advice

Stargazing honeymoon destinations: Where to see the stars in South Africa

March 11, 2022 No Comments

There’s nothing more romantic than grabbing a blanket, snuggled up with your boo as you lay underneath a canopy of stars. Your honeymoon is meant to be the start of your spectacular journey together, so why not make it a magical one with a shooting star or two. South Africa is home to some incredible honeymoon destinations – away from the hustle and bustle and glare of city lights.

If you’re looking to enjoy the splendours of the night sky with your main squeeze by your side, here are a few honeymoon destinations that are perfect for a little star gazing.

Cederberg Mountain Conservancy, Western Cape

A few hours outside of Cape Town lies this magical oasis filled with some of the country’s most stunning rock formations. While it’s bursting with some incredible history, the Cederberg Wilderness also has some pretty great spots for couples looking to gaze up at the night’s sky. The Kagga Kamma Nature Reserve is famous for its one-of-a-kind accommodation, which … you guessed it, is under the stars.

honeymoon destinations south africa — Kagga Kamma Nature Reserve

Kruger National Park, Mpumalanga

If you’re looking for a little adventure with your stargazing, then nothing beats a honeymoon in the wild Kruger National Park. Spend your nights listening to the majestic roars of lions while making a wish on a shooting star. It doesn’t get more perfect than that! If you’re really looking for a glittering showcase from our galaxy, then head to the northern region of the park. A luxurious honeymoon experience is at your fingertips when making a booking at The Outpost or keep things simple with Punda Maria Camp.

Amphitheatre Central, Drakensberg, KwaZulu-Natal

The couple who hikes together, stays together. Isn’t that how the saying goes? Either way, if you and your significant other are looking to work for some incredible views, then the Drakensberg’s Amphitheatre is a must for those looking to stretch their legs and enjoy the stars. Pitch your tent and enjoy the view, or head down to spend some quality time in nature with Thendele Camp.

Mapungubwe National Park and World Heritage Site, Limpopo

This incredible region is situated Musina, in the far north of Limpopo and nothing showcases South Africa’s beauty quite like this destination. If you’d love to spend your honeymoon listening to the wild calls of nature and the sweet gurgling of flowing rivers, then spend the night and enjoy a starry bath with Leokwe Camp.

Sutherland, Northern Cape

The charming town of Sutherland is home to the largest telescope in the southern hemisphere – the Southern African Large Telescope. With that reputation, you’re bound to have an epic stargazing experience that will leave you starry-eyed for weeks to come. Die Heks se Huis : Amethyst is also a great little Airbnb, and not at all what its name suggests.

Picture: Unsplash

In Accessories

7 Gorgeous summer wedding bouquet ideas

March 3, 2022 No Comments

There’s something magical about summer weddings! The good weather and bounty of fresh flowers may have something to do with it.

Summertime offers plenty of delectable fresh blooms to choose from, no matter your ideal bouquet – classic or over-the-top – the season offers a variety of colours and textures that are perfect for your wedding ceremony.

Here are 7 of our favourite summer wedding bouquets.

Vibrant peonies

Keep it classic with white roses

Step outside the box with bougainvillea

A pop of colour

Match with white

An array of colourful wildflowers

The King of the Protea

In Advice

6 Wedding planning apps and digital tools we can’t live without

March 2, 2022 No Comments

We’re living in the Digital Age. While relying on robust binders dedicated to vendors, bridesmaids, and various wedding planning activities can be useful, sometimes it can get a bit confusing.

More than 5 billion smartphones are currently in use around the world, so why not lean on the convenient pleasures that come with technology by infusing it into your wedding planning.

Whether you’re just starting out or well on your way to wrapping things up, here are a few digital wedding planning tools you can use to your advantage:

Joy – Wedding App & Website

Are you looking for an app that will save you time, money, and efficiently get things done? Joy wedding app and website is your one-stop-shop for a personalised wedding planning experience. You can manage guest lists and create a checklist of all the things that need to be done before your big day. In addition to the impressive features this app offers, you also have the option to create a wedding website directly from the app.

Riley & Grey – Wedding websites

Speaking of creating a wedding website, Riley & Grey is the perfect place to whip up something fabulous for you guests to feast their eyes on. There is a range of wedding templates to pick and choose from that offer a user-friendly experience for those browsing your wedding site.

Trello – To-do list

Trello does more than just offer you the chance to create a work/life balance for yourself, but can help you get organised when it comes to your wedding party. Utilise the site’s virtual pinboard and add a “card” in a column for each category that you would like to create, drop a task and create various colour codes to ensure that everything well-maintained.

Google Drive – Photo organisation

Looking to grab all the incredible photos your guests managed to capture on your big day? As long as you have a Gmail account, Google Drive is an excellent way for guests to add all the beautiful moments and ensures that everything has a place.

Allseated – Venue layout

Its sometimes difficult to picture just how your venue will accommodate your seating vision, but with Allseated, things are made easier. Send them a photo of the venue and they will create a 3D rendering of the space so that you can digitally organise tables, chairs, bars and all the wedding decor of your dreams.

GoodBudget – Budget Planner

Without a proper budgeting plan, your big day might leave you in a financial pickle. Goodbudget is a user-friendly app that allows you to allocate expenses for everything that you need. Once you have a budget set in place you can shift expenses around to ensure that you are not overspending in certain areas and neglecting others, maintaining a balance is key to success.

Picture: Pinterest