Nidha, Author at Wedding ETC

In Accessories

Dance your way to love

April 25, 2019 No Comments

If you’re looking for a classic and timeless gift that’s as unique as it is elegant, Shimansky will do nothing short of wow you.

The captivating Dancing Diamond heart pendants are the perfect way to dance your way to love and spoil someone special (or have someone spoil you, hint hint). The distinctive design allows the diamond to – quite literally – dance within its setting. Watch as it sparkles against your already beaming skin.

The pendants come in two limited edition heart shapes at a retail price of R3 995, available exclusively from Shimansky stores. For more information about Shimansky and the Dancing Diamonds visit shimansky.com.

Photographs Courtesy

In Decor

Which of these 8 bouquet styles will be yours?

January 8, 2019 No Comments

A key element of any traditional wedding, your bridal bouquet styles should not only be one that you love, but should also effortlessly match your colour palette, your decor style and your dress.

1. Nosegay – A compact cluster of flowers wrapped tight and cut to one uniform length

2. Pompander – A flower-covered ball shape, tied with a ribbon (a great option for flower girls)

3. Posy – One of the more popular options, it’s a small, round bouquet tied with ribbon

4. Hand-tied – A classic choice, it’s simply a dense bunch of flowers loosely tied together

5. Composite – Made up of different petals or buds wired together on a single stem

6. Pageant – Similar to the cascade, but more compact and pulled together

7. Cascade – A waterfall-like spill of blooms, either anchored in a holder or hand-tied

8. Round – The more buttoned-up version of a hand-tied bouquet, tied with ribbon

Illustrations: Robyn-Lee Baatjies
Header image: Unsplash

In Weddings

Real wedding: Ané & Marius get married between heaven and earth

November 2, 2018 No Comments

Surrounded by their nearest and dearest, Ané Bartleman and Marius Eksteen celebrated their special day on a sprawling estate in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley.

THE VENUE

We scoured the internet for a venue, which is where I stumbled across Bona Dea Private Estate. I lined up three venues for us to view around Cape Town in one day, but Bona Dea was our first and last stop. It is truly the most spectacular venue along the Whale Coast. With astonishing views, a lavish ballroom (as well as perfectly groomed gardens), we knew our guests would be entertained at all times.

THE THEME

We really wanted an elegant, exciting, fun and comfortable wedding. We all had a blast over a long weekend with wine tasting, great food and even some whale-watching! Our wedding day was even better than we imagined it would be.

THE DRESS

My dress was made by Casper Bosman of Casper Designer Wear in our hometown of Bloemfontein. I wanted something very simple, fitted and sophisticated. There were times I thought I should add something here or there, but your first instinct is always the best choice.

THE DECOR

We wanted decor that wouldn’t date, so went for a clean look and feel with shades of grey, silver and white. Bona Dea has a wide variety of decor options available for a perfectly tailored wedding. We loved everything from the tree branches and fairy lights dangling from the ceiling to the delicate flowers and gorgeous cake stand.

THE FOOD

For our entrée, we had a creamy wild mushroom and biltong soup. The main course was beef fillet on a bed of vegetables with pumpkin fritters – absolutely delicious! Our wedding cake was just perfect. I found a picture on Pinterest and we were so lucky to have Charlotte from Krummels Sugar Art make a red velvet cake, with cute cake toppers that looked like Marius and me.

THE FIRST DANCE

I’m a dance teacher, so this was crucial. Afrikaans music is great to dance to, so we opted for Juan Boucher’s ‘Gebore Om By Jou Te Wees’.

LITTLE BLACK BOOK

Co-ordination, decor & venue: Bona Dea Private
Photography: Johan Koegelenberg Photography
Flowers: The Flower Scene
Cake: Krummels Sugar Art
Catering: Two Chefs
Audio-visuals & DJ: Event Music Solutions

In Celebs

3 Bridal hair looks inspired by Gigi Hadid

January 5, 2016 No Comments

Want maximum style for minimal effort? Try your hand at our quick styling tricks for hairstyles that work as hard as you play.

1 The fresh princess

Create carefree beach waves by twisting damp or wet hair up into a coiled bun like model Gigi Hadid. Pin it up high for a modern top knot or at the nape of the neck for a more elegant chignon that you can wear from the beach to the bar. For a more chilled out style, release it when almost dry and shake loose carefree summer tresses. You can also refresh locks the-day-after-the-night-before by spritzing hair at the roots with a dry shampoo and giving it a quick blast of a hair dryer (powerful bathroom hand dryers work too in a pinch).

Style heroes Indola Innova #Style Style Reviver (R253) and Batiste Dry Shampoo Cool & Crisp Fresh (R69.95, get it here).

2 The crimper

Rock a gentle version of on-trend crimping by plaiting sections of hair for an hour or two and then releasing. If you’re in a rush you can also seal the deal quickly by pressing each braided piece between a hair straightener for a few seconds. Not bold enough for a full head? Use just one or two sections of plaiting intermittently through hair, which you can release later in the day for a crimped effect.

Style heroes ghd Style Heat Protect Spray (R180) and ghd Platinum Styler (R2 899).

3 The city slicker

For that just-stepped-out-of-the-water sleekness, there’s nothing better than smooth, gelled-back hair. This look is so hot right now, and so perfect for summer. Comb hair back sleekly with a clear gel to keep the top smooth, then apply a bit of cream or conditioner to the lengths of the hair to maintain softness.

Style heroes L’Oréal Paris Studio Line Hot & Sleek (R80) and label.m Gel (R315).

Text Lauren Watters
Photography popsugar.com.au, glamour.com, allure.com, IG @gigihadid, courtesy images

In Fashion And Grooming

5 Vintage touches for your groomsmen

September 2, 2015 No Comments

There’s nothing like a few vintage touches to complete your groomsmen’s look. With some attention to detail and few suave styles, they’ll look like the true and very dapper gentlemen they are. Here are five ways to pull off the look.

1 Waistcoats, suspenders and rolled up sleeves

Waistcoats, either as part of a three-piece suit or as an alternative to a jacket for a casual wedding, waistcoats add a great extra touch. As with the blazer or trousers, you can choose to match your suit or opt for a contrasting fabric, colour or pattern. Pair with a set of suspenders and rolled up sleeves for a more casual wedding, or with a great blazer for something more formal.

2 Old-school fabrics

Yes, we’re talking about velvet and tweed. This is a statement look not for everyone, but tweeds, houndstooth and plaid are fun and stylish. Channel your inner countryman by tweeding it up, or transport to centuries past by donning elegant velvet.

3 Pocket watches

There are few accessories for men (in comparison to women), but a pocket watch is just so charming and… vintage. What a great addition to a look, and will keep things running on time too – that’s if it still works.

4 Bow ties

Whether vintage themed or not, the bow tie is the epitome of chic for any gent. Fashionable since the 18th century, choose a fabric with a print, tweed or even sequinned for a smart look with a bit of fun.

5 Hats

Don the fedora, bowler or boater hat for a seriously smart look. It finishes the look off with stylish ease, and offers gents something a little different.

Photography Courtesy images

In Destination

Pocket-friendly minimoons

April 28, 2015 No Comments

We’re lucky enough to live in a country with the most incredible romantic getaways, often just a short road trip away. Here’s a round-up of some of our penny-pinching favourites.

Words Jill Kayton and Zainab Slemang

Die Rondekraal, Papkuilsfontein Guest Farm, Northern Cape

Best for wide, open spaces that burst into a riot of colour in spring, and stargazing at night.

Situated on a private farm outside Nieuwoudtville, ‘the bulb capital of the world’, Die Rondekraal is a stone and thatch cottage that oozes charm.

Who goes there? Nature lovers with a taste for culture and heritage.

Must try Sundowners overlooking the waterfall at the edge of Papkuilsfontein’s spectacular 180m canyon and an informative guided tour of the San rock art on the farm.

Good to know The cottage is well equipped for a self-catering honeymoon, but you can also order two- or three-course dinners delivered piping hot to your door (and judging by the rave reviews on TripAdvisor, we’d suggest you do!).

Rates R395 pp sharing; two- and three-course dinners from R180–R240 pp

Papkuilsfontein Guest Farm, Nieuwoudtville
+27 (0)27 218 1246
www.papkuilsfontein.com

Little Willow Brooke, Franschhoek, Western Cape

Best for a romantic bolt-hole within walking distance of Franschhoek’s culinary hub.

Situated above a bubbling stream in a thicket of willow and oak trees, Little Willow Brooke is a Cape-styled country cottage with all the trimmings: think tin roof, wonky terracotta paving and rough whitewashed walls.

Who goes there? Foodie couples who want to experience the buzz of Franschhoek, with somewhere quiet to cosy up at the end of a busy day of eating and drinking.

Must try A dip in your own private plunge pool and a picnic on the grassy verge down by the river.

Good to know Pop into the surrounding wine farms for a leisurely tasting and bring home your favourite vintage to enjoy with a braai on your stoep or next to the fireplace inside.

Rates R750 per couple per night

Dassenberg Road, Franschhoek
+27 (0)83 321 7008
www.littlewillowbrooke.co.za

Crawfords Beach Lodge, Chintsa, Eastern Cape

Best for a four-star beach honeymoon.

Situated in the seaside village of Chintsa, 40 km from East London on the Wild Coast.

Who goes there? Honeymooners looking for an all-inclusive tropical escape, without having to board a plane.

Must try Long beach walks, lazing by the pool with sweeping views down to the beach, dining on delicious, fresh seafood at the lodge’s restaurant … there’s no end to activities for post-wedding relaxation. Top of our books is a visit to Senses @ Crawfords, where the professional therapist will banish any residual stress with a Swedish massage, to be followed by a glass of bubbly in the jacuzzi.

Good to know Choose a sea-facing, front-row room for the best views.

Rates Seven-night, all-inclusive honeymoon packages start at R4 975 pp. While that’s a little over our pocket-friendly minimoons benchmark, it does include unlimited local drinks and three meals a day, which add up to a pretty sweet deal.

42 Steenbras Drive, Chintsa East
+27 (0)43 738 5000
www.crawfordsbeachlodge.co.za

Platbos Log Cabins, Rawsonville, Western Cape

Best for a peaceful and secluded waterside getaway.

Situated on a private farm, cradled by mountains in the breathtaking Slanghoek Valley in Rawsonville, just over an hour’s drive from Cape Town.

Who goes there? Eco-travellers who don’t want to sacrifice style and comfort.

Must try Fishing for bass from the outside deck of your cabin, with a cold drink in hand and nothing but the call of the fish eagle to break the silence.

Good to know There is no electricity, but the kitchen is fully equipped with gas appliances and the cabin has battery-operated solar lights. To get to the cabins, you need a 4×4 or raised vehicle (something with decent ground clearance).

Rates R1 380 per cabin per night

Slanghoek Road, Rawsonville
+27 (0)23 344 3138
www.platboslogcabins.co.za

Ndiza Lodge & Cabanas, St Lucia, KwaZulu-Natal

Best for the incredible diversity of wetlands and wildlife

Situated near the Umfolozi River mouth in St Lucia, a World Heritage Site.

Who goes there? Adventure-loving couples.

Must try A sunset boat cruise on Lake St Lucia estuary, home to an abundance of wildlife, including hippos and crocs.

Good to know Ndiza really knows how to treat newly-weds – apart from a complimentary three-course seafood meal served with wine at a private candlelit table, honeymooning couples will also receive a voucher for a two-night stay on their first anniversary.

Rates From R495 pps per night, including breakfast

153 Hornbill Street, St Lucia
+27 (0)35 590 1113
www.ndizastlucia.co.za

Magoebaskloof Getaway, Haenertsburg, Limpopo

Best for a rustic and relaxed mountainside escape

Situated in Magoebaskloof near Haenertsburg and Tzaneen, a three-hour drive from Pretoria. Book one of the three self-catering log cabins on the dam, backed by indigenous forest. Camping and caravanning sites are also available.

Who goes there? Active couples keen on hiking, fly-fishing and birdwatching.

Must try Pick up a map at reception and follow the two- to three-hour trail to the top of the farm, stopping en route for a refreshing shower under a crystal-clear waterfall.

Good to know Fly-fishing permits are available free to guests staying over – you only pay for the trout or bass you take home.

Rates From R650 per cabin per night

R71, Haenertsburg, Limpopo
+27 (0)83 449 7024
www.magoebaskloofgetaway.co.za

La Roca Guest House, Nelspruit, Mpumalanga

Best for exploring the nearby Kruger National Park and the incredible natural wonders of the Panorama Route.

Situated in a large subtropical garden adjoining Nelspruit Nature Reserve, La Roca is a four-star boutique guest house providing luxurious accommodation in tastefully decorated rooms.

Who goes there? Discerning travellers who appreciate value for money and above-par hospitality.

Must try Take a self-drive tour of the Panorama Route, stopping to marvel at the awe-inspiring Blyde River Canyon, God’s Window and the Bourke’s Luck Potholes. Unwind after a day’s sightseeing with G&Ts at La Roca’s glorious pool, with uninterrupted views over the reserve.

Good to know Mpumalanga’s capital city, Nelspruit, hosts the popular InniBos arts festival every year in July, attracting more than 200 musicians, actors and artists and some 100 000 spectators.

Rates From R1 000 per room per night, including breakfast.

56 Van Wijk Street, Nelspruit
+27 (0)13 752 6628
www.laroca.co.za

In Destination

Experience Island Bliss On A Mozambique Honeymoon

April 7, 2015 No Comments

I bet we all daydream about a honeymoon suite with all the trimmings you see in the movies: petals strewn across a four-poster bed, Champagne chilling on ice, romantic dinners on a rooftop terrace…

Well, imagine no more. There’s no need to travel to the other end of the planet to experience the shmanciness of a luxury honeymoon, especially when our friendly neighbour Mozambique pulls out all the stops just as well.

Stress-proof paradise

Ibo Island Lodge, in particular, has it all under control when it comes to pulling together your seamless honeymoon experience. They’ll take care of everything from your travel arrangements to and from the resort, to your daily boat excursions and historical tours.

Wedding Album | Mozambique honeymoon — Dhow cruising

Smooth cruising

Honeymooners can enjoy a seven-night package at the lodge, which includes all meals daily as well as a traditional Ibo massage for the blushing bride.

Just to make it that much more special, the tailored extras include a three-course romantic dinner for the two of you in the lodge’s garden; and, if you’re feeling up to a bit of sailing on the clear waters around the Quirimbas Archipelago, the resort offers both traditional dhow safaris as well as kayak safaris for the more adventurous.

Immerse the senses

The archipelago is home to a rich array of historical sites, which means hours of taking in the sights, flavours and sounds of the area for you and your hubby.

Colonial architecture tells a story of years gone by, allowing couples to get lost in another era. Of course, exploring such a vibrant culture is a great learning experience that both of you will enjoy as you interact with locals and dig in to the delicious cuisine.

Down to the details

Ibo Island Lodge’s honeymoon package also comes in a five-night version, but taking the seven-night package gives your groom a free night at the lodge. The cherry on top, whichever option you choose, is that the bride stays at half price!

Fore more information, visit iboisland.com or Mozambique’s tourism hub, mozambiquetourism.co.za.

Photography Courtesy

In Advice

My Wedding Wizard

September 29, 2014 No Comments

For brides looking for outstanding wedding suppliers, allow us to introduce you to your one-stop online wedding shop.

My Wedding Wizard provides information, images and reviews for top, professional wedding suppliers in South Africa. Find your perfect venue, designer wedding dress, professional hair and makeup artist and so much more. It’s free of charge, so register today and browse the easy to use online catalogue.

The wizard will match your wedding to the most suitable, available suppliers. Login and use the comprehensive wedding planning tools to start creating your own dream wedding day. It’s a simple, fun solution to wedding planning.

Sign up and register for My Wedding Wizard here. Visit the website at myweddingwizard.co.za or contact 021 556 3257.

Photographs Courtesy

In Accessories

Le Creuset herb planters

June 27, 2014 No Comments

Plant small flowers to brighten your windowsill, or herbs to add fresh flavour to home-cooked meals. Le Creuset launches its new herb planter, a perfect gift to add to your registry.

Features:

Dense stoneware blocks moisture absorption to prevent cracking, crazing and rippling
Impermeable exterior enamel resists stains and scratches from metal tools
Nearly-nonstick glazed interior easily releases soil for quick cleanup
Dishwasher-safe

Add it to your registry on Yuppichef.com’s online wedding registry or order online at lecreuset.co.za.

In Venues

Adore Weddings and Events

June 25, 2014 No Comments

Adore Weddings and Events is a KZN based wedding and events planning company headed by born romantic and experienced Wedding Planner Carolyn McNeil. Adore strives to bring to life your vision and hope for your special day.

‘I have a deep love for wide open spaces and growing things,’ says Carolyn when WA chatted to her. ‘I simply love weddings and feel honoured to be invited to be a part of someone’s special day.’

The Adore Weddings and Events team offers a variety of coordination, styling, flower and decor options. ‘We adore all things romantic, eclectic and wonderful, and aim to partner alongside our clients to create a uniquely tailored, stress free and memorable experience of laughter, love and light for you and your guests.’ We thought it fitting to ask Carolyn a few questions about wedding decor and styling trends right now.

What are the 5 hottest wedding trends this year?

A continuation of the gorgeous copper, gold and rose gold trend.

Raw wood tables.

Whimsical, boho weddings with wreaths, vines and pretty, loose, asymmetrical flower arrangements.

On the opposite side of the style scale, a return to very clean lines, clear glass, symmetry and pure white decor and flowers look set to happen toward to middle of 2015.

We’ll begin to see an introduction of deep burgundies, purples, cobalt and blacks as base colours, teamed with rich golds and / or silvers.

How do international trends differ from local trends?

The South African market tends to follow the international market by a season or two. That being said, Pinterest and social media have bridged this gap largely and often homegrown weddings are bang on trend with international markets. I do see a more personalised look for South African weddings, with personal and intimate details included in the decor and stationery.

What’s the most important things to remember when planning a wedding?

Remember why you’re planning this day. When details, budget and expectations become overwhelming, remember that the entire point of this day is that you’re marrying your best friend, and sharing the beauty of that moment with your closest friends and family.

In your experience, what’s the best way to bring out a couple’s personality in the decor scheme?

I’m a personal fan of planning your wedding around your personal style. Your wedding should ideally be like having special people over to your home for dinner – just on a bigger scale.

What advice do you have for couples trying to decide on their decor and colour scheme?

Don’t follow a trend or fashion unless it is already your intrinsic style. You need to live with your wedding photos, so if your decor is something you will love always, and if it is very personal to the two of you, you will always love it.

If you wish to contact Carolyn about your wedding day, email her on [email protected] or call 083 364 4658. Visit the Adore Weddings website at adoreweddings.co.za.

Images: Courtesy