• Category

    Advice

    Category

    As the outbreak of coronavirus gets more and more serious, governments across the world have urged people to practice social distancing. We all know by now that with social distancing comes a lot, if not all, evenings spent indoors.

    This has affected date nights everywhere. Oh, the horror! No more movie theatres, bars, restaurants, or any activity that causes a large amount of people to gather in one place at one time.

    We’re sure there are a few rebellious souls out there, risking infection for an evening on the town. However, for those of us who prefer living life far away from the edge, safely in quarantine, date nights don’t have to be boring either.

    Here are some quarantine date ideas:

    – Netflix (with or without the chill) 

    This one works for those of you who are fully committing to self-isolation. You don’t even have to be in the same room. All you need is two separate Netflix accounts.

    Add the Chrome extension called “Netflix Party” to your browser. Click on your date night movie, then click on the extension icon that should have appeared on your browser tab. You’ll see a chat bar appear on the side of the screen. Send a link, which is provided by the extension, to your date. There you have it – Netflix date night from separate houses!

    – Cook together 

    There’s nothing more romantic than cooking together. Get your hands dirty in the kitchen with a recipe you’ve never tried before or better yet, have a cooking competition! Limit yourselves to only what’s in the cupboards presently (since we’re limiting our trips to stores anyway) and cook a dish each. After, you can have a tasting and decide that in the end you’re both winners since you have the prize of each others’ company.

    – Couples at home spa

    Head to Pinterest for some great DIY face masks, hair treatments and the like. Spend the evening pampering yourselves and relaxing as you take advantage of the extra down time quarantine has provided.

    – Picnic 

    Who says you need a park for a picnic? If you have a garden or a yard, lay a blanket out and get picnicking! Alternatively, for those without a grass patch at their disposal, have a picnic on the floor in your home. All you really need is the right energy. Light some candles, lay out a snack-spread, play some music and you’re good to go.

    – Games night

    There are plenty of two person games out there. Card games, board games, jenga, don’t limit yourself. Unleash your playful side with those games that have been gathering dust in your closet.

    – Make plans 

    For the extrovert out there who can’t wait for the self-isolation to end, spend an evening making a bucket list. Plan all the things you want to do together as soon as the quarantine ends…and commit to doing them! No bailing out once the time comes.

    Don’t forget, being in quarantine doesn’t mean you get to skip your shower! Happy date night!

    Featue image: Unsplash

    You’d think it would be difficult to make a mistake with an occasion like this. It’s one of the biggest events in your life, so of course you’d ensure that nothing could go wrong.

    But planning the perfect proposal can be stressful. This stress could cause you to make some silly mistakes.

    To be one-hundred percent sure that things run smoothly as you pop the big question, have a look at these common mistakes you should avoid:

    – Asking for too much advice 

    If you get too many opinions, your plan will be a bit of a mess and you’ll get confused about the right thing to do. Remember that you know your partner better than most people, which means that you know what they would like and what they wouldn’t. Trust your gut!

    – Overcomplicating things 

    If your plan consists of too many twists and turns, there is a much larger chance that silly slip ups can be made. Keep it simple and meaningful.

    Additionally, your nerves may stop you from being on top of your game. A complicated plan will only aggravate the nerves.

    – Planing a public proposal without being 100% sure of the answer 

    If you’re a little uncertain about your partner’s answer, but you’re risking it anyway then a public proposal is probably not the best route to take. Since there is a slight chance, however small, of a negative answer you should save yourself some discomfort and plan a more intimate proposal.

    – Proposing without having spoken about marriage before 

    You should never just assume your partner wants to get married. If you have never discussed marriage as a couple, it is a very bad idea to propose. You never know what their feelings on marriage could be.

    – Hiding the ring too well 

    If you want your partner to stumble upon the ring, then be sure to hide it strategically. Don’t put it in a place they will never find it, it’ll ruin your plan completely.

    Image: Unsplash 

    Once you receive your precious engagement ring, it’s understandable that you’d never want to take it off. The ring shows your partners love, affection, and commitment to you, which makes it extremely special. For this reason, it needs to be protected!

    The best way to protect your engagement ring is to know when you shouldn’t wear it. This way you won’t lose or damage it.

    Here’s when to remove the bling:

    – When you’re doing housework

    While you’re cleaning you may knock the ring. This is more common an occurrence than you’d expect. To ensure that your ring remains unscratched and unharmed, remove it before you start cleaning.

    Additionally, cleaning products like bleach and ammonia damages both the metal and the stone of your ring.

    – In the shower 

    The scrubbing and soaking you do in the shower will take a toll on your band. It may even end up scratched.

    – Working out

    First off, the ring may fall off and you’ll lose it.  That’s the last thing you’d want. Second, the ring could get damaged by weights you use – the pressure on the ring could bend the band and result in the stone falling out of its setting.

    – During your beauty routine 

    Soaps, creams, perfumes and other such products all result in damage to your ring. If you keep your ring on every time you apply these products, it will build up and collect. This will result in a build up of grease and over time will result in deterioration.  If the products get under the stone, it way loosen it from its setting too.

    – Travelling 

    Travelling is tiring and keeps you busy, you could get lost in the activities and end up losing your ring.

    – Cooking 

    This is a recipe for disaster. The oils, fats, and flours will result in long term damage to your engagement ring. In fact, cooking is one of the biggest reasons people’s rings get ruined! So ensure that you take it off when preparing that romantic meal.

    Image: Unsplash 

    Red is often considered the colour of love, so what’s more romantic than a ruby? This red-hued stone has been a favourite of royalty for centuries, earning the moniker ‘king of gems’.

    Rubies make up one of the four main precious gemstones, joining emerald, sapphire and diamond. The word comes from the Latin “rubens”, meaning red. The stone is made up of corundum, a crystalline form of aluminium oxide containing traces of iron, titanium, vanadium and chromium. Technically, rubies and sapphires are the same stone as they are made up of the same chemical properties. However, a stone of this makeup in any colour besides red is considered a sapphire. The mineral chromium is what gives the stone its characteristic red tinge, differentiating it into a ruby.

    Given its deep red colouring, rubies are often associated with love and desire. The stone can range in shades from pink to oxblood. The most desirable shade is called ‘pigeon-blood’, a deep red with a hint of blue.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BnSdOF-Aksf/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Rubies are found all over the world, from Myanmar (previously Burma), Africa, Australia to the USA. This precious gemstone has long been highly revered by Asian cultures. The first ruby was discovered in Myanmar back in 600AD and were worn as talismans by Burmese soldiers in battle as a form of protection. In Sankrit, rubies are called ratnaraj, or “king of precious stones”.

    Popularity soon spread to Europe and rubies became one of the most sought-after gems for European royalty and the upper class after it was selected as the stone of choice for British coronation rings back in the 13th century. The stone was said to guarantee health, wealth, wisdom and success in love.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B8zGXzZH-_W/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    As with other gemstones, rubies are graded on the four C’s: colour, cut, clarity and carat weight. The world’s most valuable ruby is the Sunrise Ruby, a 25.59-carat (5.1 g) “pigeon blood” ruby discovered in Myanmar. The stone was mounted by Cartier and set between heptagonal diamonds weighing 2.47 carats (0.49 g) and 2.70 carats. It sold for a record $30.42 million on May 12, 2015 at a Sotheby’s auction in Geneva, Switzerland to an anonymous buyer.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B0YZp3Glror/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Feature image: Unsplash

    Deep blue is the colour of royalty, so it is no surprise a rich sapphire stone would centre Kate Middleton’s engagement ring. Once belonging to Princess Diana, this iconic ring caused sapphire sales to skyrocket in 2010 following the royal engagement announcement. Even before this proposal, however, sapphires have been adored and coveted for their intense colouring.

    The name of this precious gemstone comes from the Greek word ‘sappheiros’ and the Latin word ‘saphirus’, both of which translate to mean blue. Despite the name, however, sapphires come in a range of colours from blue to yellow to pink. The only colour is cannot present as is red as it would then be considered a ruby. Naturally, blue is the most coveted colour variant.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B7MLygjDmfD/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Sapphire is one of the four main precious gemstones, including diamonds, rubies and emeralds. While found all over the world, the highest-quality and most prestigious sapphires come from Kashmir, Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, Australia, Sri Lanka, Madagascar, and Montana.

    The stone is believed to have healing properties, and is regarded as the stone of mental focus and order, inner vision and psychic awareness. Chakra theory also believes that sapphires help open one’s third eye, thus allowing wisdom and insight to enter.

    This stone is much loved by celebrities such as Princess Diana, Penelope Cruz and Elizabeth Taylor.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B8d4KiahwI_/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Coloured stones have been trending in the engagement world for the past few years, and sapphire makes an excellent choice because it can double up as your ‘something blue’. When picking one out, always refer to the four Cs: colour, cut, clarity and carat.

    Feature image: Pexels

    Everybody knows getting married is a package deal. You might adore your new spouse, but that doesn’t mean you will necessarily get along with their family. However, as much as we’d love to tell you it doesn’t matter, it does. Family is family, no matter what and building good relationships with your in-laws will make for a healthy relationship with your partner. Here are a few things to try if you’re faced with a monster-in-law.

    – Don’t judge a book by its cover

    This is true of all relationships. The way people seem is not always the way they are. Even if they behave in what comes across as rude or mean, it might have nothing to do with you. There might be a deeper insecurity or issue that leads to certain behaviour. Always give people the benefit of the doubt. Also remember that people have different personality types, and not everyone will always get along. That doesn’t mean you can’t be civil towards each other for the sake of your partner. Try spending some one-on-one time with the person and find common ground. You might just be pleasantly surprised.

    – Stand your ground

    If you have tried getting to know them better and being kind, but nothing’s changed, it might be time to stand your ground. There’s a line between being nice and getting walked over, which no one deserves. If things get so heated that they make you uncomfortable or the other person is downright condescending, you may want to set boundaries and be straight with them. Don’t compromise on your own values just to get them to like you. It’s important for them to know that they should also respect you and your beliefs, even if they don’t agree. Try to explain your point of view in a calm and open-minded manner, giving reasons for your view points.

    – But not too much

    That being said, always keep in mind that your relationship with your partner comes first. You don’t want to end up hurting them or worse, forcing them to choose between you and their family. If you have tried to be the bigger person, stated your take on things and set some boundaries, but the conflict is still not resolved, you might actually want to take a step back. This might include politely declining from family gatherings. It’s not worth losing your partner over a feud with your in-laws.

    – Always be respectful, even if they’re not

    The golden rule in every situation is respect. Accept the fact that you may never get along, even though you tried. However, and this especially applies during the “stand your ground” phase, always be respectful. That way, you don’t give them any ammunition to fight with, plus you’re showing your partner that you respect them too. Never stoop down to verbal abuse, immature games or using children as a means to manipulate their grandparents, for example. As long as the in-laws are not actually doing anything illegal or harmful, there’s no reason for you to keep your partner or children away from them. The battle is between you and them.

    Image: Unsplash

    Coloured stones are trending for engagement rings in 2020, and it’s clear to see why. From tanzanite to rubies, these brightly-hued stones offer a unique edge that is perfect for a bride wanting to be different.

    Brides have been loving emerald stones to centre their engagement rings in recent years. Brilliant and bright, emeralds are among the most popular gemstones in the world.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/Bpq6N5sgFOV/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

     

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

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B3SjbKCFydY/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Emeralds are a variety of the mineral beryl and get their colouring from trace amounts of chromium and/or vanadium. The first known emerald was found in Egypt around 1500 BC.  What makes this gemstone so special is its deep, rich green hue. Interestingly, this stone can range in tone from deep to pale green.

    Dubbed the “Stone of Successful Love,” emeralds are particularly symbolic for romance. The stone is said to open and nurture the heart and embody unity, compassion and unconditional love.

    Emeralds have been found in Africa, Asia, and South America. Columbia yields the largest amount of this gemstone, producing more than 50% worldwide.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BxBsKT7gMMz/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B8El61UlmUp/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Brides and celebrities alike have coveted this gemstone for years, including Kate Middleton, Jackie O, Elizabeth Taylor and Victoria Beckham. Even Cleopatra favoured this stone.

    No matter the cut, this stone will look incredible. Most popular, however, is the emerald cut.

    Feature image: Instagram

     

    After you’ve basked in the blissful happiness of saying “yes”, you’re probably dying to announce your news. We’re sure you want to shout it from the rooftops! In the age of social-media and technology, these types of announcements are relatively low-effort tasks. There is also more room for creativity!

    No need to settle for an announcement over a phone call. There are tons of ways to make your engagement announcement memorable not only for you, but for everyone receiving the news. Here are some ideas to inspire you:

    Show off your ring

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B5jD96wnw8U/

    Encircle yourselves with love 

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B680XKmnoQx/

    Have a friend (or a professional) secretly snap some photos to use later

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B7TYNfOJJ3f/

    Incorporate hobbies, interests or activities 

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B5kx_pXHvNo/

     Lay your ring next to a quote 

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B7UxzwmBFti/

    Bring your pets into the fun

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B7U-nRknpgB/

    Add some humour

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B2K7x5fJYNL/

    Write it big and bold 

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BynwH7cn5SM/

    Show off the location/scenery 

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B6mXBX9Jp3r/

    Keep it natural 

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B7Q_vEGF8Ld/

    Involve your kids 

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B57ol-xncl1/

    Make it a part of your daily life 

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B2fNKVznxSd/

    Feature image: Unsplash

    The Roman Catholic Church in Spain has recently introduced a new programme that will require engaged couples to enroll in a two-to-three year course designed to prepare people for marriage. This decision was created in the hopes of lowering the country’s high divorce rates.

    Couples wanting to marry in a Roman Catholic Church in Spain are currently required to participate in 20 hours of marriage training, but priests argue that this is not enough time to prepare for a life-time promise.

    Speaking at a press conference, Monsignor Mario Iceta, the bishop of Bilbao and the president of the conference’s subcommittee for the family and the defence of life said, “You can’t prepare for marriage in 20 hours. To be a priest, you need to spend seven years in the seminary, so what about being a husband, wife, mother or father? Just 20 hours?”

    The high divorce rate is a cause for concern for many priests. Spain currently has the second-highest divorce rate in the world after Luxembourg. Many blame the “express divorce” law, which speeds up the process of divorce by removing the need for a trial separation. While there is no official data for the last few year, it is estimated that the rate sits at 60%.

    To remedy this, the Spanish Episcopal Conference announced their latest voluntary programme for engaged couples called ‘On the Path Together’, designed to “accompany, prepare and help young couples towards the matrimonial vocation”.

    The course is divided into 12 sections that focus on different aspects of a relationship, including ‘communication’, ‘fidelity’, ‘the beauty of sexuality’, and ‘conflict resolution’. Couples participating in the course will be required to attend the fortnightly sessions and practice ‘chastity’ throughout.

    Feature image: Pexels

     

    The classic bride deserves a ring to match. Inspired by the past, vintage engagement rings are heirlooms in the making. Honour her love for the yesteryear with a memorable vintage-inspired engagement ring she is guaranteed to treasure forever.

    Embellished with unique engravings, alternative cuts and colourful stones, these vintage rings are truly one-of-a-kind and a huge trend for 2020. In late 2019, Emma Stone debuted her antique-style ring with a centre pearl instead of a diamond. Follow in the Oscar-winning actresses footsteps with a vintage-inspired ring of your own. Here are some to guide your way.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B7Q-y4Jj5ff/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    https://www.instagram.com/p/Bpy4R7WjSUv/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B6tDyCRF39f/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BwsbGnFl91k/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B5f9l_hFRXe/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B4dALFJlfDD/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B3nji7hg8Be/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B7Og8WjF1Q3/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B7En6UqgHtA/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B7Ec4AlgP6z/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B62ASFdAePY/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B6o-8_ops1Y/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B6I0iF0lFJC/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Feature image: Pexels