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Having your ring engraved is an excellent way to personalise your engagement ring. It allows couples to write sweet messages of devotion to one another, and keep it close to their hearts.

But what do you enscribe on such an important piece of jewellery? Considering you will (hopefully) wear your ring forever, you’ll want something meaningful to look back on.

You don’t have that much space on a ring, so a shorter phrase is ideal. Here are some cute words to have permanently written on your ring.

Dates and symbols:

– Your wedding date

– The date you met

– Your initials

– Co-ordinates to where you first met

Words and phrases

– I Love You

– Always and forver

– Until eternity

– Never to part

– Perfect fit

– Finders keepers

– Je t’aime

– Better together

– Till death

– I do

Feature image: Pexels

If you’re looking for the hottest new wedding trend, there’s nothing trendier than the statement headband.

Aside from looking hotter than hot on your wedding day, this accessory can easily be incorporated into your everyday aesthetic, and we do love a piece that is versatile!

Whether you’re eager to stick to something that’s more on the “classic” side of life, or you’re looking to wow guests, here are a few of our favourite pieces to help gather some inspiration:

The Pearl Headband

Pearls are not just for royalty and this wedding trend has been a big year. If you’re looking to hop on the trend train but you’re not willing to go all out, opt for pearls on your headband for a subtle and trendy addition to your attire.

A Subtle Flower Crown 

This ethereal statement headband is the perfect inclusion for any bride looking to add even more romance to an already romantic day. It’s another subtle piece that doesn’t scream “look at me” and is a great way to incorporate a flower crown if that’s the look you’re after.

The Birdcage Veil 

If you’re attempting to add a touch of vintage to your wedding day look, the birdcage veil is a perfect option. This bridal headband and veil is a modern combination that will definitely get you plenty of compliments on your big day.

 

While this may be a simple piece, it offers an extra bit of magic thanks to the Swarovski crystals and luminous pearls that adorn this headband, and the side tassels are a stylish addition.

A whimsical look

This spectacular piece has been crafted from Swarovski crystals and provides a whimsical look for those looking for that “wow” factor without going over the top. While many may say that this look is the stuff of fairytales, this is definitely the look of a goddess.

Fit For A Princess 

Meghan Markle, eat your heart out. This rather elegant headband is the perfect addition to your wedding accessory collection and offers a not-so-dainty headband that’s adorned with crystals and pearls.

Feature Image: Mitheo Events 

There is a unique sense of nostalgia and class connected to a vintage look. It allows us to revel in the past and bring to light the unique aspects of times come and gone that we love.

A big upside of vintage wedding touches is that they are very affordable and appear far more expensive than they actually are. If you know where to look, you can steal yourself vintage items to add a splash of old-world glamour to your day without breaking the bank.

Vintage crockery

 

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If you’re planning a picnic celebration, don’t forget you can hire your picnic crockery, cutlery and glassware from me. Celebrations now come in all shapes and sizes and my first wedding picnic order is heading out this weekend. ? Drop me a message if you’re not sure of which items to hire. This is one of my 8″ plates, perfect for picnics and grazing. ? Starter size cutlery is also ideal for this informal style of catering. ? Don’t forget you are helping the planet by hiring #preloved pieces ??? . . . Venue: @boreplace⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Photography: @onelove_pictures⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Flowers & Styling: @bohotanical⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Plates, Cutlery, Cake Stands & Glassware: @harrietstable⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Stationary: @madebyraedesigns_uk⠀ @sustainableweddingmovement . . . #ecowedding #ecoweddings #englishwedding #vintagecrockeryhire #vintagechinahire #harrietstable #veganwedding #gardenwedding #weddingpicnic #eco-friendly #ecobride #wildflowerwedding #sustainablewedding #bohobride #bohowedding #alternativewedding #vintagewedding #antiques #cutleryhire #glasshire #vintagecrystal #bohostyle #greenvelvet #relaxedwedding #vintagepicnic #picnic #gardenparty #weddingideas #eastgrinstead

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Plates and other crockery items can wrack up a huge bill. Scooping up some cute bargain items from your local vintage store can make a significant financial difference.

Finding matching items may be a bit of a challenge but a miss-matched collection of plates or glasses of a similar style ensure originality and add a touch of the unusual to your wedding tables.

The dress

 

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{Coming Soon} 常說白紗好像都有固定姿態, 但我就是個包拗頸的蕃薯仔。 就這樣等待有相同理念的伙, 同樣單純地, 喜歡波希不隨波逐流的態度, 也喜歡沒規則的創作跟自由。 追求細節也追求做自己的生活態度。 因為人嘛, 天生就不羈放縱愛自由嘛。 Be Yourself Be a Unique Bride! 新裙快將上架嚕✨ . *SAMPLE SALE ONLINE* www.bysilentsiren.com/samplsale . Accessories New items: www.bysilentsiren.com/shop . on SALE Accessories *Online Shop 限定*: www.bysilentsiren.com/sale . . #bohoweddingdress #hkbrideshop #hkbride #taiwanbridal #vintage #gardenwedding #vintagewedding #weddingday #weddingidea #bridestory #weddinginspiration #indiebride #bride #bride2020 #bridetobe #bridelook #madeinhongkong #hkbrideshop #hkbridetobe #bridestyle #vintage #vintagelove #vintagelover #modernvintage #weddingbouquet #fashion #fashionbride #bohostyle #bohowedding #weddinggoals #theuniquebride #popeye

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A wedding dress can set you back a few bucks for sure, but a vintage upcycled option can save you thousands.

Opting for a vintage ensemble not only ensures that your dress will be the only of its kind but also allows you to add your own touch to the dress with inspiration from its class style.

Plus, you’ll be saving enough money to put a little extra towards your honeymoon.

Vintage props

 

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✨Unique prop collection✨ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Are you looking for finishing touches that will make your wedding stand apart from others? ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ As part of my rebrand I’ve been having a clear out! There are so many fantastic suppliers out there with a huge range of decor, that it seemed silly to try and offer you ‘more of the same’. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Therefore I have decided to streamline, and make my collection more considered in terms of the aesthetic I’ll be offering. There will still be variety, but the items I’m keeping are the unique finishing touches that I believe will add originality and personality to your wedding or event. Pieces with history; some that have been lovingly made by hand, vintage pieces sourced from around the world and repurposed objects. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ There will also be a staple range of multifunctional items staying, but all of them will be pieces that can be styled in different ways to help you create pockets of interest and excitement around your venue + display key decorative aspects. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ My bespoke design and create services will perfectly compliment the idea of styling the props in my collection to help tell your own personal love story ? ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Or you will be able to ‘dry hire’ for a more DIY approach. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Pink suitcase anyone?! ? ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ #wedding #somersetweddinghire #weddingtrend #uniqueprop #uniqueprophire #alternativewedding #engaged #rusticwedding #bohowedding #bohoweddingsomerset #pinkwedding #stylemepretty #weddinginspo #pinksuitcase #somersetwedding #weddingdecor #somersetprophire #weddingideas #diywedding #gettingmarried #ihavethisthingwithpink #weddingstylist #prophire #vintagewedding #weddingdetails #2021weddingtrend #weddingwednesday #somersetweddinginspo #coolwedding #bohoismyjam

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From renting to buying to using something from your own collection, props bring a vintage-inspired wedding together.

The great thing about vintage props is there are a huge variety to choose from, while still ensuring a high level or originality.

Hang lace curtains, drape old timey crochet items and stack vintage suitcases, the options are endless.

Go classic with your flower choices

 

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Rustic neutrals ✨? Tag a future bride in the comments below who would love this bouquet!

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Draw on the inspiration of yesteryear and style your flower arrangements with a touch of vintage flare.

Neutral tones, delicate buds and dainty details radiate vintage, so be sure to play up your theme in your flower arrangements as well.

Vintage sparkle

Rings don’t have to be the latest fashion or a huge chunk of a diamond. For grooms and brides who prefer the simpler things in life and are looking to honour their love for vintage style, a re-purchased set of rings is a great option.

While you won’t be spending as much as you would on a brand new diamond ring, vintage jewellery is in no way a cheap option.

Some unique antique pieces can set you back a hefty sum but there is also the option to go for new age vintage-inspired pieces as well.

Wherever you buy your pieces, make sure you trust your seller and you’re getting the piece you’re paying for.

Vintage beauty

The bride can tie the whole theme together with a little vintage beauty. Vintage hairstyles have a flawless and classic look that will age well in your wedding pictures for years to come.

Add a vintage makeup look and beauty details that reference your favourite years gone by and you’re all set.

The cake

The ultimate vintage vibe can be invoked with a classic yet stunning cake.

From light layers dusted with cane sugar to flower topped sponge delights, add your personal touch to your cake with a vintage twist to bring the whole theme together.

Image: Instagram

As sustainability seeps into the collective consciousness, more-and-more brides are researching how to achieve the quintessential ‘sustainable wedding,’ turning to vendors, services, and products that help them achieve this.

Jewellery is one way the modern eco-conscious bride is doing some good. From ethically sourced rings to fair trade necklaces, here are a few incredible jewellery brands that are sustainable AND African.

AuTerra Jewellery 

AuTerra is a Cape Town-based brand led by designer and maker, Ashley. It’s a remarkable, innovative brand that collects discarded electronic products and recycles them into jewellery. The aesthetics of the handcrafted pieces transcend trends and the contemporary designs are simplistic and minimal. The brand believes in creating pieces that can be passed down from generation to generation in the hopes of persevering quality craftsmanship.

KiiRA African Fine Jewellery

Each gemstone is individually selected, ensuring that no two pieces are the same. Along with offering vibrant and minimalist designs, each piece is ethically sourced and handcrafted to perfection in South Africa. The brand also offers custom designs for brides looking for something extra special.

Black Betty 

Bespoke jewellery pieces are only a click away. From gemstone-infused tiger necklaces to gorgeous pearl earrings and engagement rings, Black Betty Designs is a great place for those looking for pieces that will ‘wow.’ Based in Cape Town, this sustainable jewellery brand ships throughout South Africa.

Yala Jewellery 

 

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This Kenyan-based jewellery brand provides pieces with a purpose, ensuring that each one of its designs has a positive impact.  What’s more, they offer beautiful modern designs that perfectly reflect the beauty of Africa. From Sagana brass nugget necklaces to hammered brass bracelets – there’s plenty to choose from.

Dear Rae

 

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Dear Rae is the brainchild of fine arts graduate Karin Rae Matthees. The brand uses local materials and manufacturers to create unique pieces. Dear Rae design aesthetics can be described as classically minimal pieces that you can wear for the rest of your life. Karin’s brand adheres to the Kimberly process as well, and sources local manufacturers for production, ensuring each step of the manufacturing process is completely transparent.

Feature Image: Kiira African Fine Jewellery

When the PlayStation 5 arrived and was made available for purchase, a lot of gamers were prepared to do almost anything to get their hands on the Japan-based technology game. The game goes at a retail price of  R11 999 in South Africa.

Several posts on Reddit showed that proposing with a PS 5 is a new trend amongst gamers,  and this is mainly the male gamers proposing to their women.

A gamer posted on Reddit: “Rolled up after midnight pickup of our PS5s and snuck this game into the pile 😉 (video in comments)”

Rolled up after midnight pickup of our PS5s and snuck this game into the pile 😉 (video in comments) from r/PS5

Another user who goes by the name Zachavelli also followed the trend and snuck a ring when proposing to his fiance.

Christmas came early for me and my (now) fiancé from r/PS5

It seems as if there is an underlying romance that only gamers understand, and the popular gaming game console is the perfect way to ask your loved one to be your ‘Player 2’.

Picture: Unsplash

Flowers play a very important role on the wedding day, so it is important to match them to the season. Like fruit, flowers are seasonal, and getting the ones you love will sometimes be expensive if they are out of season.

Summer

Having a summer wedding is the easiest season because you are guaranteed the best weather, most flowers have bloomed and available and you can have an outdoor wedding. These flowers thrive best in summer:

Roses

Roses can be dressed up or down in a bouquet for any type of wedding. You are never limited to colours with these flowers. Shades range from red, yellow, pink, and orange to purple and white. Be careful though, each colour has its own symbolism!

Chrysanthemum

These flowers are perfect for a summer vintage wedding theme. They are available in hues such as yellow, orange, white, red, purple, and pink.

Sunflowers

Sunflowers were made for summer with their bright, happy hues and appearance. They’re the perfect bloom for a rustic wedding. They are mostly yellow but you can find orange and red varieties.

Winter

Winter weddings are popular for thsoe that love the season, and tend to be more intimate and indoors. The weather is mostly gloomy but your decor doesn’t have to be, here are flowers to help.

Camellias

Camellias are one of winter’s most-loved flowers Their petals are layered, which adds plenty of texture and you can pair them with thorny green. Their peak blooming season allows them to be readily available and easy to use.

Carnations

These cuties continue to bloom and thrive during winter’s cold months, and they are also available in a variety of colours like shades of red, purple, pink, and white. They make a room come alive with their flexibility.

Ranunculus

Ranunculus are great to use if you are going for the all-white soft florals theme. They are perfect for the bouquet and the groom’s pocket flower.

Spring

Spring is the season of hope. During this time everything is bright and beautiful, the sun is out but not too harsh and you want to look like a blooming flower. Your wedding should represent that vibe with these options:

Tulips

Tulips are great flowers and they look vibrant. You will find them in every colour except for black, blue, and green.

Peony

It’s one of the most loved flowers of the wedding season and it’s easy to see why the peony is an all-time favourite. It is the perfect mix of softness and texture, the flower also has a secret meaning – ‘a happy marriage’. It is available in white, cream, burgundy, soft pink, crimson, rose pink, and deep pink

Lilac

These beautiful flowers have a great beautiful soft scent. They are available in pure white, pale lilac, deep lilac, and pale pink.

Autumn  

This is a season of natural colours. Everything is wilting and is mostly windy, it is hard to imagine that there are flowers that bloom when trees fall. Here are flowers you can find in autumn to make your wedding a day to remember:

Dahlias

These flowers are a nice balance between organic and refined. They are commonly mixed with greens to make a grounding look on your decor. You can find them in pink, white, and a quiet orange.

Zinnias

The Zinnias have an ombre effect. They have a calming effect and can be a great use for a barn-themed wedding. You will find them in various shades, from deep burgundy to the palest blush.

Protea

South Africa’s national flower is fitting for a wedding day. It is symbolic of change and transformation across cultures.

Pictures: Unsplash

Do you sometimes wish to have a different ring on your ring finger? Look no further. Here are FAQs and all you need to know when thinking of resetting your ring

A ring makeover does not have to cost you an arm and a leg, and you don’t have to buy a completely new ring either. You can rearrange your stones and make them brand new.

1. Why reset your ring
There are many reasons to reset your ring and those may include a divorce, feeling your ring is worn out, or just wanting a new look. However, when you reset your ring, its value changes and it will no longer be the original price.

2. Cost to reset
Resetting your ring may cost from R5000 to R20 000, depending on the design and the type of stone it is. The cost is less expensive than buying a new ring. However, adding new diamonds might cost more so you need to do your maths before taking your ring for a new look.

3. How long will it take
The waiting period depends on what you want to be done on your ring and it also depends on where you take it. Adding more diamonds might take longer. If you take your ring to a local jeweler it might take up to six weeks to finish it but private jewelers may have it done faster.

4 Know your stone
Do your research about your stone. It will make it easy for you to decide what to do with it if you know a little more about it. This way, you know what to expect from reconstruction and the risks.

5. Insurance
Mistakes happen all the time and you want to avoid them happening to your stone but you can never be a 100% sure, the best thing to do is make sure your ring is insured and ask your jeweler what is their policy if they mess or break the stone, have that written down to protect yourself. Normally, jewelers have a free repair policy but asking won’t hurt.

6. Ask
Jewelry is an important piece in anyone’s life because there is always a story behind it. When you take your ring for resetting, ask as many questions as you possibly can. Do your research prior and go prepared. This will save you.

Picture: Pexels

Steampunk is a subset of science fiction that successfully marries retro-future design sensibilities with the alternative. It poses an alternate reality where the history of the 19th century Victorian era has modern machines that are powered by steam.

These stories were often set in dystopian London, but can also be the setting of your dream wedding. Think rich gold, bronze metal work and lots of leather (or faux leather, if you are so inclined).

Take a look below for some steampunk wedding inspo:

Wedding dresses:

Steampunk wedding inspo
Credit: Pinterest
Steampunk wedding inspo
Credit: Pinterest
Steampunk wedding inspo
Credit: Pinterest
Steampunk wedding inspo
Credit: Pinterest

Grooms suits:

Steampunk wedding inspo
Credit: Pinterest
Steampunk wedding inspo
Credit: Pinterest

Cakes:

Steampunk wedding inspo
Credit: Pinterest
Steampunk wedding inspo
Credit: Pinterest
Steampunk wedding inspo
Credit: Pinterest

Cake toppers:

Steampunk wedding inspo
Credit: Pinterest
Steampunk wedding inspo
Credit: Pinterest
Steampunk wedding inspo
Credit: Pinterest

Feature image: Pexels

The practice of carrying bouquets on a wedding day dates back to ancient times. Ancient Greeks, Romans and even Egyptians believed that carrying bunches of herbs and spices would ward off any bad luck during the wedding ceremony. Flowers were used to symbolise fidelity, happiness and new beginnings.

The modern wedding bouquet emerged during the Victorian age, and has become ornamental, as those marrying use specific flowers to communicate various romantic sentiments.

Here are some wedding bouquets that are made of unusual floral choices and other add-ons:

Feathers:

Source: Pinterest

Pine cones:

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Baby’s breath:

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Lavender: 

Source: Pinterest

Paper flowers:

Source: Pinterest

Bougainvillea:

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Juniper berries:

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Rosemary:

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Cabbage:

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Eucalyptus:

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Blue hydrangea:

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Succulents:

Source: Pinterest

Picture/s: Pinterest

An engagement ring is a promise of forever. In the quest to be unique, some may go far beyond expectations. Diamonds are predictable, and many have opted for statement jewellery pieces to proclaim their love.

Here are a few of the most… unique rings we have come across online:

Gotta catch ’em all:

Remember when Pokemon Go was huge? This couple must have been pretty swept up in the craze, and have the ring to prove it! The centre stone is encircled by a pokeball shape to prove that they have finally captured their love.

Strange engagement rings that will make you do a double take

A piercing choice:

Piercing engagement rings have been popular among those who don’t want a traditional ring. Instead of wearing a band, the diamond is implanted into the skin of the ring finger.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bff9Mq8F469/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Dragon power:

Game of Thrones fans, we might just have the ring for you. If you’re still heartbroken over the deaths of Daenerys’s beloved winged children, your engagement ring can be the perfect tribute. This bride’s ring is shaped as a dragon in mid-flight, which we’re sure she thought was pretty fly. It even glows in the dark!

Strange engagement rings that will make you do a double take

Polly want a cracker?

Parrots are beautiful birds, but they are never really associated with weddings. One unique couple, however, opted to showcase their love of birds. This custom-made ring features a mini sculpture of two parrots perched together on the band, and is definitely a scene-stealer.

Strange engagement rings that will make you do a double take

Take a bite:

Parents often keep their children’s teeth once they’ve fallen out as a special memento. California couple Carlee Leifkes and Lucas Unger took this to the next level. Unger had his wisdom tooth embedded into the ring instead of a traditional diamond.

Strange engagement rings that will make you do a double take
Source: Pinterest

A hands-on jewel:

A Japanese man collected his fingernail clippings for a year, then ground it to a powder and baked it to create a “stone” for an engagement ring. The end result is a pitch-black, rock hard stone. If you didn’t know, you would probably never guess that’s it’s made from human nails.

Feature image: Facebook / That’s it I’m wedding shaming