Advice Archives | Wedding ETC

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8 Romantic engagement ideas to help you pop the question!

May 13, 2026 No Comments

You’ve gathered all the necessary ingredients for the perfect proposal: a gorgeous engagement ring, a heart-tugging engagement speech, but oh, how to pop the question in a way that will make her heart flutter?

Going down on one knee and asking your soulmate to marry you is a stressful affair, and if all that stress has you feeling overwhelmed and confused about your perfect wedding proposal, try a few of these engagement ideas on for size.

Make sure to add your own personal and creative twist:

Loud and proud, for everyone to see:

These are for those brave souls out there who don’t care a hoot about who is watching!

Have a caricaturist at your side

It’s the stuff rom-coms are made of! There are a number of caricaturists and artists in South Africa that will make the perfect accomplice to your wedding proposal. Hire them on the day and have them sketch the words: “Will you marry me?” And voila!

A favourite landmark

This doesn’t have to be everyone’s favourite landmark, but just you and your soon-to-be betrothed. It can be anything from a mountain, fountain, hotel to shopping mall, as long as it’s a place that’s special to both of you!

Keep it close to home

Who needs to be amongst people? If you and your future bride are both homebodies, here are home wedding proposals.

Re-create your first date

This can be both out and about or at home – you decide. However, nothing is more romantic than re-enacting your first date before creating a beautiful new memory by popping the question.

A custom jigsaw puzzle

This is the perfect proposal idea if you both love board games or it’s a rainy day. Make sure to get a custom-made jigsaw puzzle with your picture and the words: “Will you marry me?” If you’ve completed the puzzle enough that you can clearly see your picture and the words, it’s time to go down on one knee.

Embrace Mother Nature

If you love the great outdoors then check out a few of these ideas.

Hot air balloon

There’s nothing like letting your love soar to new heights, and popping the question while doing just that is a fantastic idea! Well, as long as a fear of heights is not on the table.

Message in a bottle

If you’re looking for a unique beach proposal, then why not add a cute little message to a bottle? Write a heartwarming poem or letter on a piece of parchment and add it to the bottle with cork before burying it in a designated spot under the sand. Don’t forget them to find the bottle, but make sure you have the ring ready to go!

Adorable proposal ideas

You’re looking for fun. You’re looking for excitement. You’re looking for unique, here are a few ideas:

Escape room

Escape rooms are all the rage right now, so why not add your own wedding proposal spin on things? Contact your favourite escape and try and work on a way that will allow you to incorporate your wedding proposal into the adventure of trying to escape the room!

Gift delivery

You were looking for cute? Why not get a box that’s tall enough for you (a refrigerator box is a great start) and add a little note for your soon-to-be fiancé that may allude to what’s really inside the box.

ALSO SEE: Engagement ring care tips to keep your sparkler looking new

Engagement ring care tips to keep your sparkler looking new

Feature Image: Adventure for Love

In Advice

Engagement ring care tips to keep your sparkler looking new

May 11, 2026 No Comments

While your ring may be built to last a lifetime, it still needs a bit of love along the way. Proper engagement ring care isn’t just about keeping it shiny for Instagram photos. It’s also about protecting a piece of jewellery that carries enormous sentimental value.

Luckily, a few smart habits can help keep your sparkler safe, secure and dazzling for years to come.

Take it off more often than you think

It might feel strange removing your engagement ring after getting used to wearing it every day, but there are certain situations where it’s much safer off your finger than on it.

Heavy lifting at the gym, gardening, cleaning with harsh chemicals and even sleeping can put unnecessary pressure on the setting and metal. Over time, this can loosen prongs, scratch the band or cause tiny stones to fall out without you even noticing.

When you shouldn’t wear your engagement ring

Your engagement ring is designed for everyday wear, but there are some situations where jewellers strongly recommend taking it off.

At the gym

Weights, resistance machines and even certain yoga poses can bend bands, loosen stones and scratch metal. Pavé settings are especially vulnerable during workouts because tiny diamonds can shift under pressure.

In the shower

Soap, shampoo and conditioner create buildup that leaves stones looking dull and cloudy. There’s also the very real possibility of your ring slipping off and disappearing down the drain.

While cleaning

Household cleaning products often contain harsh chemicals that can damage metals and gemstones over time. Bleach and chlorine are particularly harsh on jewellery.

At the beach or pool

Cold water causes fingers to shrink, making rings easier to lose without noticing. Sand can also scratch metal and get trapped underneath settings, while chlorine and salt water may weaken certain metals over time.

While sleeping

Sleeping with your ring on can create unnecessary wear from friction against bedding, and overnight swelling can sometimes make rings uncomfortable or difficult to remove.

During gardening or DIY projects

Soil, tools and rough surfaces can easily scratch or dent your ring, while dirt buildup underneath stones can dull sparkle surprisingly quickly.

When applying skincare or beauty products

Lotions, oils, sunscreen, perfume and fake tan can all leave residue behind that affects shine. It’s best to put your ring on after finishing your beauty routine.

During certain holidays or travel

Adventure holidays, hiking trips and busy tourist destinations can increase the risk of damage, loss or theft. Some brides-to-be choose to wear a travel ring instead for peace of mind.

If there’s ever doubt, jewellers tend to follow one simple rule: if an activity could scratch, loosen, bend or expose your ring to chemicals, it’s safer off your finger than on it.

Put your ring on last

When getting ready, your engagement ring should be the finishing touch.

Perfume, hairspray, fake tan, moisturiser and makeup can leave residue on your stone over time, dulling its sparkle much faster than you’d expect. Jewellery experts often recommend applying all beauty products first and slipping your ring on just before heading out the door.

Keep a ring dish nearby

One of the easiest engagement ring care habits to adopt? Ring dishes.

Place one next to your bed, another in the bathroom and maybe even one in the kitchen. Having designated safe spots around your home means you’re far less likely to leave your ring balanced precariously on a sink edge or wrapped in a tissue somewhere.

And yes, everyone thinks they’ll remember where they put it. Until they don’t.

Clean your ring regularly

Even the most brilliant diamond can start looking dull thanks to lotions, soap, makeup, sunscreen and the natural oils on your hands.

Thankfully, you don’t need anything fancy for at-home engagement ring care. A small bowl of warm water with a drop of mild dish soap works perfectly. Let the ring soak for a few minutes, then gently clean around the setting with a soft toothbrush before drying it with a lint-free cloth.

A gentle clean every few weeks can make a noticeable difference to your ring’s sparkle.

Book professional check-ups

Just like your car needs a service, your engagement ring benefits from a professional once-over too.

Jewellers can check that the prongs are still secure, inspect the setting for wear and professionally polish the metal to restore its shine. Tiny issues that you might never notice yourself can often be caught early before they become expensive problems.

If your ring suddenly starts snagging on jerseys, blankets or towels, don’t ignore it. That can sometimes be a sign that the claws or prongs have lifted slightly and need attention.

Know your metal

Different metals require slightly different care.

White gold rings, for example, are usually coated in rhodium plating to achieve that bright silvery finish. Over time, the plating naturally wears away and may need refreshing every few years.

Make sure your ring actually fits properly

A ring that’s too loose is risky, while one that’s too tight can become uncomfortable and difficult to remove.

Finger sizes naturally fluctuate throughout the year depending on temperature, lifestyle changes and even hydration levels. In colder weather especially, fingers can shrink enough for rings to slip off more easily.

If your ring constantly spins, slides or feels uncomfortably snug, it may be worth visiting a jeweller for resizing or sizing beads.

Proper engagement ring care starts with making sure your ring fits securely in the first place.

Consider jewellery insurance

It’s not the most glamorous part of being engaged, but insuring your ring can save a lot of stress later on.

Insurance can help cover theft, accidental damage or loss, particularly if you travel often or wear your ring daily. Many jewellers provide valuation certificates that make the process much easier.

It’s also smart to keep clear photographs of your ring, along with any certificates or valuation documents, in a safe place.

Hopefully you’ll never need it — but having that peace of mind is worth it.

Not all gemstones are created equal

While diamonds are famously durable, other gemstones require a gentler approach.

Emeralds, opals, pearls and softer stones can be more vulnerable to knocks, heat, chemicals and even sudden temperature changes. If your engagement ring features a coloured gemstone, it’s worth asking your jeweller about the best cleaning and care methods specifically for that stone.

Don’t panic about taking it off

There’s an old superstition that removing your engagement ring is somehow “bad luck”. Thankfully, that’s exactly what it is: a superstition.

Looking after your ring properly doesn’t say anything about your relationship. If anything, careful engagement ring care simply means you want this sentimental piece to stay beautiful for decades to come.

ALSO SEE: (Don’t) put a ring on it

(Don’t) put a ring on it

Feature image: Pexels

In Advice

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

May 5, 2026 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.

ALSO SEE: 8 guidelines for father of the groom

8 guidelines for father of the groom

Feature image: Pexels

In Advice

How to pull off the perfect destination proposal

May 4, 2026 No Comments

Planning the perfect proposal is nerve-wracking, exciting and maybe even a little overwhelming, all bundled up neatly into one big knot in your stomach. Throw in an unfamiliar destination, and that knot gets a little bigger. But don’t fear, we’ve got the fool-proof guide to making it go as smoothly as possible:

Do your research beforehand

By planning ahead, you’ll take a little pressure off yourself as well as have more peace of mind about how it’s all going to play out. Have a plan of where, how and when you’d like to pop the question, but don’t expect it to work out exactly as you see it in your head. When the moment is right, you’ll know, but also don’t be too stressed about changing it up in case of unforeseenable elements, like the weather.

That said, make sure you’re aware of what’s happeing in the area you’re planning to propose in, especially if you’ve never been there. Do a little internet search beforhand to see if any events are happening, if the area is a sacred place perhaps, or if any of the areas are restricted. It will also be handy to look at popular scenic locations, or romantic spots that other people have popped the question at for some inspiration.

Communicate with your hotel

…or resort, B&B, or wherever you’re planning on staying. Even if you’re not planning to propose at the place you’re staying at, they’ll most likely make some extra effort to make it romantic for you if they know what your plans are. Some places even organise some complimentary champagne, a romantic dinner, or some rose petals in your room for after you’ve popped the question.

Insure the ring

Before you even leave for your getaway, make sure the ring is insured. Things happen, but if you’re planning to propose while away, it’s the last thing you’d want to worry about. Get the ring insured for in case a stone pops out, or heaven forbid, it gets misplaced or stolen. It’s the responsible thing to do anyway, plus it will put your mind at ease.

Hide the ring, safely

Packing is stressful enough as it is, or at least for some. But making sure the ring stays safely hidden from your fiance-to-be’s eyes is extra daunting. If you don’t want to worry about it falling out of your pocket, or your partner accidentally seeing it in your bag, pack it in your check-in luggage. However, if you’re scared of your luggage getting lost or delayed (because yes, these things happen), keep it safely stashed in your carry-on. Rather safe than sorry, right?

Furthermore, if you’re worried about it being discovered at customs, it’s a good idea to place the ring box inside a bigger, nondescript box with a note inside to give the inspector or security guard a quick heads up in case they have to take a closer look.

Don’t wait until the last minute to propose

You want to wait for that perfect moment, but don’t wait until the last day of the trip. Nerves might not be your best friend, so your partner might notice that you’re acting a little differently. A little anticipation is good, especially if your partner is kind of expecting it, but if you propose earlier on, you’ll have more time to celebrate it in a special place.

Don’t overthink it

Sometimes it’s best to just go with your gut. If the moment feels right, go for it, even if it doesn’t go with your plans. Being spontaneous and it being unexpected sometimes makes the moment that much more special.

ALSO SEE: Alternative engagement ring stones

Alternative engagement ring stones

Feature image: Unsplash

In Advice

The shift towards later marriages

March 24, 2026 No Comments

Once upon a time, saying “I do” in your early twenties felt like a given. Today? Not so much. South Africans are rewriting the rules of romance, choosing to marry later, more intentionally, and often with a clearer sense of self.

According to the latest Marriages and Divorces, 2023 report by Statistics South Africa, the median age for civil marriages has steadily climbed over the past decade. In 2014, grooms typically married at 35 and brides at 31. Fast forward to 2023, and those numbers have shifted to 38 for men and 34 for women.

It’s a subtle but telling change — one that signals a move away from traditional timelines and towards something more personal. Careers, financial stability, and personal growth are taking priority, with marriage becoming less about age and more about readiness.

Fewer weddings, bigger meaning

It’s not just when people are getting married — it’s how many are choosing to do so at all.

In 2023, South Africa recorded 105 123 marriages and unions, including civil, customary, and civil unions. Civil marriages alone dropped from 150 852 in 2014 to 99 289 in 2023, a significant 34,2% decline.

This doesn’t necessarily mean love is fading. If anything, it suggests couples are becoming more intentional. Marriage is no longer seen as a default step into adulthood, but rather a conscious decision.

Age gaps and evolving norms

While modern love may be more flexible, some traditions remain. In 2023, the majority of marriages still involved older grooms — 75,2% in civil unions and an even higher 87,1% in customary marriages.

At the same time, the age bracket for brides is shifting upward. Where women once commonly married between 25 and 29, the new norm sits between 30 and 34, another clear sign that timelines are changing.

While this shift may feel unfamiliar to older generations, it could signal something positive. Today’s couples are choosing readiness over routine, prioritising emotional maturity, financial stability, and personal growth before saying “I do.” Tradition will always have its place, but modern love is proving that the right timing is just as important.

ALSO SEE: The latest marriage statistics in South Africa

The latest marriage statistics in South Africa

Feature image: Pexels

In Advice

What to eat before and on your wedding day

March 5, 2026 No Comments

Feeling your absolute best on your wedding day is non-negotiable. We asked Loredana Loots, an integrative nutrition and holistic health coach, for her advice on what to eat before and on your wedding day:

“With only a few days to go and a whirlwind of emotions, arrangements and final prep, you may (understandably) not give much thought about what you are eating and drinking. What you consume actually has a major impact on how feel – physically, mentally and emotionally. Every couple deserves to look and feel like a million bucks on their special day. These handy food secrets are a must!

In Advice

Who pays for the bachelorette party?

February 27, 2026 No Comments

In Advice

Bridesmaid ‘proposal’ ideas

February 26, 2026 No Comments

Your big day started with big gestures, and your bridesmaids should be included in these. Here are a few cute ways to ask those closest to you to be part of your wedding party.

In this day and age, it is quite a big ask (as bridesmaids are expected to perform a lot of duties) so asking those closest to you with a personalised gift of sorts makes their experience that much more special. No matter what you choose to gift in the bridesmaid proposal, make sure to include a letter written by yourself to each individual bridesmaid. You are asking them to give up a lot of their free time to be your bridesmaid, you can take the time to write a personal letter about why you would like them to be up there with you on your special day.

In Accessories

Alternative engagement ring stones

February 25, 2026 No Comments

An engagement ring holds a large amount of significance for a couple. For hundreds of years, the classic diamond has been a major trend for engagement rings, often honoured for their simple beauty, shine, and value.

But with more and more traditions evolving, the classic diamond engagement ring is slowly being replaced with other special stones, materials and designs that value originality, affordability and meaning.

Take a look at our top picks for alternative engagement rings:

1. TANZANITE

The next best thing to diamonds is the striking tanzanite. With its deep blue, this stone can complement a silver, rose gold or white gold band beautifully. As far as cut goes, tanzanite is popular in many shapes. This teardrop ring shows how tanzanite can pair with other jewels as well.

2. MORGANITE

With a light, dusty pink tint, morganite is an affordable and stunning stone which signifies unconditional love and compassion – two necessary traits in all marriages. This stone is equally as versatile due to its light shade and works well with all metals.

3. JEWEL BAND

If you want to have a more practical and simple engagement ring, then a plain band with a few jewels may be the one for you. Incorporate your favourite stone, or multiple to make a statement. If you opt for a brightly coloured stone such as the ruby or peridot, your band is bound to stand out.

4. OPAL

Opals are a rare and highly sought after stone that adds a touch of glamour to a ring. They can give off a vintage appearance, but if you pair it with a simple silver band surrounded by smaller diamonds, it becomes a modern but still unique ring.

5. VINTAGE

Whether it’s an heirloom, has been bought in an antique store, or specially made to appear old-fashioned, vintage rings will always be breathtaking options for engagement rings. The metal is darker and has intricate detail, which is often accompanied by a large and neatly cut stone.

6. ONYX

Dare to make a bold statement with a dark and shimmery onyx centrepiece on your engagement ring. This black stone complements yellow gold in a unique and modern way, which has slowly started to pick up attraction on the market.

7. PEARL

Having a pearl on your engagement ring definitely adds a touch of vintage elegance. If you are a lover of all things old-fashioned, opting for these lovely round jewels will bring your dream ring to life.

8. ROUGH CUT

The cut of the stone makes a big impact on the overall ring. Just simply using an uncut diamond instead of a neatly cut one can change the look and feel of your ring. A rough cut ring is more rustic and natural-looking, for a more organic finish. In this case, it’s better to seek a specialist for a hand-crafted option.

9. TURQUOISE

If you love to be different then this is the stone for you. Choosing a turquoise jewel for your engagement ring is a big step, as this particular stone has a very youthful appearance, especially when paired with a dainty band and smaller stones. But you will have a unique and special ring that you value, which is all that matters.

10. SMOKY QUARTZ

This earthy stone is a beautiful and affordable option for an exquisite natural-looking engagement ring and can be paired with silver or yellow gold for complementary tones. Marvel over its sparkle and changing colours when it catches the light.

ALSO SEE: Diamonds: Understanding the 4 C’s

Diamonds: Understanding the 4 C’s

Image: Unsplash

In Advice

8 guidelines for father of the groom

February 16, 2026 No Comments

The mother of the bride role comes with clear and concise instructions. So do the roles of father of the bride and maid of honour – but one of the most important, yet often overlooked roles, is that of the father of the groom.

As times change, the duties allocated to the groom’s father have too, so if you’re unsure what to expect here are some unspoken guidelines.

1. Suit up
Possibly one of the most important duties of the groom’s father is that of suit selection. A son will often rely on his father to help pick out the perfect attire for his big day, give him a few tips and even make sure the tailor fit is just right.

If the groom and groomsmen have an appointment for suit fittings the groom’s father should naturally attend as well and might be able to cash in on a discount along with the group.

It is also important that you look the part for the big day so make sure you take your own fitting seriously.

2. Offer to contribute to wedding costs
It’s no secret that weddings cost a pretty penny – one of the most important ways to be involved and supportive of your son’s commitment is to be financially supportive.

Offer up whatever you can to go towards the big day and ask where budget is needed.

3. Attend or host the rehearsal dinner
It some traditions the groom’s parents host the rehearsal dinner. This is the perfect opportunity for the groom’s father to step up and take centre stage to coordinate the night. Keep in mind what your son’s interests are, make sure the rehearsal is something that reflects his personality.

4. Help where you can
When it comes to weddings, there are so many aspects to consider and things to be done. As a supportive and proactive father of the groom, it is your duty to help where you can. Ensure you don’t limit your helpfulness to any specific duties and try your best to be available if needed. If you have a particular expertise that might come in handy, don’t be shy to offer.

5. Hang out with the boys
When the morning of the wedding arrives, it’s the father of the groom’s duty to hang with the boys and provide extra emotional support before the big event.

It’s important to be supportive, positive and maybe even share a few funny stories about the groom’s childhood with his good friends to calm the nerves.

Compliment your son on his wedding-day look and make him feel confident and ready to take to the alter. This is a special moment to give him some marital advice.

6. Greet guests
It goes without saying the the father of the groom should be prepared to greet guests, especially in the receiving line.

Don’t be shy and put on your best, most welcoming smile while tending to each person who has come to share the special day with the lucky couple.

7. Enjoy
You can’t attend such an important day without enjoying it. Make sure you spend your time at the wedding well and smile, dance, eat and be merry.

8. Say a little something
Last but certainly not least, prepare a speech. It can often be a daunting task to put your thoughts on paper and especially to read them out to a room full of people, but this is your chance to rise above the nerves.

Your speech does not have to be lengthy, in fact short and sweet is better.

Make sure you put your heart into whatever you have to say, its not everyday that you get to share the first day of the rest of your child’s life with them and send them off with words that they will surely remember for years and years to come.

ALSO SEE: Nail your wedding speech

Nail your wedding speech

Picture: Pexels