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    In Advice

    Spring into the new season with these vibrant bridesmaid dresses

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    Spring has officially begun in the Western Cape. All across the province, the floral kingdom is coming alive and bringing stunning scenery along with it.

    This season is a beautiful time for weddings. Bridal parties should reflect the vibrant season and go bold with floral fabrics and fun hues.

    Pinks, blues and greens are the perfect colours to complement this theme. Opting for mismatched bridesmaid dresses adds even more to the aesthetic, turning your beautiful bridesmaids into the flowers they are.

    Here are some delightful dresses to inspire your own:

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    Feature image: Pexels

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    In Cake

    How to host the perfect punk wedding

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    Not all couples want to have a classic white wedding. Some prefer to show their true colours, and one of the options for music lovers is to have a punk-themed wedding to reflect their anarchist tastes.

    Punk is defined by the DIY zeitgeist, and materials associated with this include denim, leather and tartan. Think brides in Doc martins, visible tattoos and piercings, brightly-coloured hair and grooms in leather jackets. There is also a laizé faire attitude with those who love the punk lifestyle, so don’t expect the reception to be a prim and proper event.

    See below for some certified punk wedding inspiration:

    All pictures: Pinterest

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    Prince Philippos of Greece announces engagement to Nina Flohr
    In Announcements

    Prince Philippos of Greece announces engagement to Nina Flohr

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    Another royal wedding is on the way. Prince Philippos of Greece has popped the question to longterm girlfriend Nina Nastassja Flohr.

    The prince proposed during a summer vacation in the Greek island of Ithaca. Of course, she said yes.

    “Their Majesties King Constantine and Queen Anne-Marie are delighted to announce the engagement of their youngest son HRH Prince Philippos to Nina Nastassja Flohr, daughter of Thomas Flohr and Katharina Flohr,” the monarchs office wrote in an official statement.

    Flohr recently shared some sweet snaps from their engagement, writing: “My dearest Philippos. I love you today, I will love you tomorrow and forever. You make us happier, better and stronger. I cannot wait to spend the rest our lives together ”

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CEmJrAJANl8/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Greece abolished their monarchy in 1973 but royals still retain their titles. The prince works as a hedge fund analyst in New York City, and his future bride is a creative director for her father’s company VistaJet.

    Their wedding may be a long time coming, considering the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Philippos’s older sister, Princess Theodora of Greece is also engaged and was meant to marry fiancé Matthew Kumar in May 2020 but had to postpone due to the pandemic.

    They celebrated what would have been their wedding day with a small get together.

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

    We can’t wait to see this big fat Greek wedding!

    Feature image: Instagram / Nina Flohr

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    In Advice

    Magnificent marquise shaped engagement rings

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    A truly unique shape, the marquise engagement ring is for the bride that wants to stand out. It has a rich history and eye-catching design for the adventurous soul.

    If you’re on the market for a rock to decorate your fingers, here is what you need to know.

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

    The marquise shape has a an interesting French historical background. According to Shimansky, the shape was created for Louis the XIV, a monarch who ruled as the King of France.

    “Legend holds that Louis the XIV, also known as Louis the Great or the Sun King, wanted a diamond that would be as brilliant and in a shape that could match the smile of the Marquise of Pompadour. And that was how the Marquise shape diamond was born. Because of its shape, it is sometimes also known as “navette” (little boat),” they explain.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CBwVuB1o3TY/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    The stone has 58 facets and a slender, elongated shape that is characterised by two sharp points on either end of it. It typically has a length to width ratio of 1.75 – 2.25 to 1, with the ideal ratio being 2 to 1.

    Thanks to its long shape, this cut makes the diamond appear to be of greater weight and size than it actually is. It’s shape can also have the ‘bowtie’ effect, in which the diamond appears to take on the shape of a bow tie due to the absence of light reflection in the table of the diamond. This can easily be solved by adding more facets to the crown of the stone.

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

    Creating the perfect marquise shape diamond takes expert skill and technique because of its distinct shape. It has to be perfectly proportioned or else it won’t deliver the optimum amount of brilliance. When on the market, be sure to ensure the stone is symmetrical.

    This stone is perfect for those wanting to grab attention. Like most other shapes, it elongates the fingers and its unique shape makes the stone appear much larger. Those with extroverted personalities will love this shape that offers an unrivalled charm.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CEPOC8iqPfs/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Feature image: Pinterest

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    Celebrate new beginnings with spring-themed wedding invites
    In Engagements

    Celebrate new beginnings with spring-themed wedding invites

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    It’s springtime! Everybody loves the turning of the season from icy cold temperatures to milder, sunny days. Nature agrees and gives us her prettiest, most colourful blossoms. Wildflowers are in bloom and trees sprout young new leaves.

    If you’re having a spring wedding, your stationery should be fresh, vibrant and colourful. Take a look at these lovely invitation sets that we adore.

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    Image: Pinterest

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    Liam Payne reportedly engaged to Maya Henry
    In Announcements

    Liam Payne reportedly engaged to Maya Henry

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    It seems former One Direction star Liam Payne is off the market! The singer has reportedly popped the question to girlfriend Maya Henry after two years of dating.

    According to the Daily Mail, Payne proposed with a stunning diamond that cost him a whopping £3 million. The private couple is said to have gotten engaged during lockdown.

    While neither of them have confirmed their engagement, the couples were spotted out for dinner in London on Thursday, August 27 and Henry’s dazzling rock was on full display.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B5oEVOqnNCP/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Payne and Henry met back in 2015 at a One Direction meet-and-greet fan event when Maya was only 15. Three years later, they were spotted together for the first time in August 2018 after the musician split from Cheryl Cole, with whom he shares a son.

    In 2019, the couple went Instagram official just as Payne’s first single ‘Stack It Up’ was released.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B2osesKAdAF/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    “Sometimes I don’t recognise this happy guy… sure glad you brought him back though. This has been the most amazing release week to date! Massive thank you to all my team for helping setting it all up and making it run smooth,” Payne wrote in an Instagram post.

    “Then last but not least this one @maya_henry for always keeping the biggest smile on my face through all the stress and making me realise how perfect my life really is. Love you all let’s stack this sh** up.”

    Speaking to MTV News, Payne said that he has had much heartbreak in his life but has finally found his match.

    ‘I’ve found someone who’s genuinely my best friend, she’s just so relaxed about everything and someone who’s completely got your back with everything is just the wildest thing.”

    Feature image: Instagram / Maya Henry

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    8 best moments from Indian Matchmaking
    In Celebs

    8 best moments from Indian Matchmaking

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    Docu-series Indian Matchmaking, premiered on Netflix and immediately captured viewers attention. From picky participants to Auntie Sima, the matchmaker, the show is non-stop entertainment.

    Although it was intended to be a look into the world of matchmaking in the India and among Indians in the diaspora, the show much like other reality series, had people in stitches and rooting for different characters.

    Here are our best moments from the show.

    1.When Aparna complains about everything 

    No doubt cast as the villain of the show Aparna is really hard to please. There is almost nothing Aparna can’t complain about or find something wrong with. From “hating comedy” to her job, the list of what she hates is longer than what she likes (which pretty much only includes travel).

    2. Auntie Sima’s stars in alignment 

    One of the most meme’d moments of the series is when Auntie Sima says that her work is worthless unless the “stars are aligned”, oh how we wish we could all use that excuse when we fail.

    3. Pradhyuman’s terrible small talk 

    Pradhyuman is a constantly terrible date throughout the show. The spoilt rich boy is either saying cringe-worthy pick-up lines, being outright rude or carrying on terrible conversation. His peak has to be when he asked Rushali what kind of animals she liked, “Mammals, or like sea life?” absolutely ended audiences.

    4. Everything Pandit Dilip Bhatt

    This astronomers guidance for Auntie Sima is always hilarious. From talking about sex lives to a very uncomfortable Sima to saying “Lord Jupiter is now driving your bus”, Pandit Ji always came out with something a bit crazy. Often though, he was pretty spot on about these daters.

    5. Aparna’s Goat date 

    Aparna hates everything and she surprisingly didn’t hate this. Calling it “relaxing” her face told a different story as she squirmed with the little goat sitting on her mat. While this bizarre take on yoga is an acquired taste, we were not shocked that Aparna couldn’t handle it.

    7. Aunti Sima not knowing what dogs are 

    This was ridiculous. When walking around Aparna’s house, Auntie Sima sees two paintings of what are clearly dogs on her wall. Without missing a beat she says “You have put these pictures of these kittens.” The internet went mad for this, and Aparna nicely corrected her.

    8. Ashkay’s stressful mother 

    Oh where to start with Ashkay’s mother. The man was already looking for someone exactly like her and this hectic mom was totally in agreement. From wanting the girl to be “flexible” to needing her son and this woman to get married so his older brother can have children, Preeti’s demands were pretty high.

    Image: Netflix

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    Ginspiration for the perfect gin bar on your wedding day
    In Advice

    Ginspiration for the perfect gin bar on your wedding day

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    What makes a wedding all the more special is having the perfect drink to cheers with. When it comes to drinks, nothing goes down better than a classic G&T. If you agree; here are a few ways to make a standout gin bar at your wedding.

    Choose your vibe

    A lot of a gin bar is the vibe. Decide whether you’re going for a classic high tea look, mid-century modern touch or bohemian and base your gin choices around that.

    With your concept in mind choose your setup, whether that be a gin tent, truck, stand or picnic area. While its a gin bar, its also a statement and a decorative piece of your big day so don’t be afraid to add a little something extra to your look.

    The look and feel of your gin bar speaks to your personal style and can be customised to the last detail.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    We love our recently acquired G & T letters. Thank you @holt_antiques_interiors_centre perfectly finished off this little set up along with some vintage coloured glass and of course a lovely bottle of Norfolk Gin! Norfolk gin and tonic perfect for a warm summer evening?? #sustainablebusiness #sustainableweddings #proudlynorfolk #supportnorfolkbusinesses #tipiweddings #woodlandweddingvenue #rusticweddingdecor #rusticweddings #norfolkweddingsuppliers #norfolkweddingvenues #ecoweddings #weddingsuppliers #rusticbride #norfolkbridetobe #ecoweddinginspiration #rusticweddinginspiration #rusticweddingideas #rusticweddingstyling #prophire #bridetobe2021 #ecoweddingplanner #outsidewedding #tipiweddings #rusticweddingdecor #rusticweddings #norfolkweddingsuppliers #ecoweddings #weddingsuppliers #rusticbride #ecoweddinginspiration #norfolkbridetobe #prophire #bridetobe2021 #ecoweddingplanner #vintageglassware #weddingginbar

    A post shared by Samphire Vintage Props (@samphirevintageprops) on

     

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    We had a ball taking part in a styled wedding shoot at @horstedpondfarm back in July. Planning your big day and looking for some inspo? Check out the images and super talented supplier list below ??✨?? Concept, Coordination, Styling & Bell Tents: @beneaththecanopy Venue: @horstedpondfarm Photography: @kirstymackenziephotography Tipis and furnishings: @lovetipisofficial Flags: @eventflaghire Bunting: @bohotemple Prop hire, tassel & glitter walls, styling and accessories: @tohaveandtohire_weddings Stationery & map: @paperbearlane Jackets, home accessories, throws and cushions: @sarahbaily Wedding dress: @pantilesbride Headpieces, bouquet and button holes: @f.o.l.k.y.d.o.k.e.y Make-up advisor and hair: @lucymeyermakeupartist_ Blooms: @ferncottagefloristry Models: @meeraroses @benjamins_craft Wedding bands: @benjamins_craft Celebrants: @kateandkatecelebrants Jewellery: @jackandfredas Grazing table and platters: @grazingsocial Cakes and smores: @coppice_cakes Doughnuts: @marblekitchenuk Lollipops: @emilys_lollies Pizza Truck: @tinroofkitchen Cider: @nightingalecider Trousers and Top for evening shots: @lucymeyermakeupartist_

    A post shared by Vintage Citroën HY Mobile Bar (@theginemporiumco) on

    Gins & cocktails

    When it comes to choosing the gins, you have to decide whether you are going for the classic G&T offering or whether you’ll serve up specially made cocktails for the day. A large portion of this decision depends on whether you’re outsourcing help for your bar or simply arranging it yourself with a bartender or two to help.

    Customised cocktails are a nice touch that can tie into you and your partner’s history but they are extra effort due to additional ingredients needed.

    If you’re a purist and like your gin with a classic tonic or soda then opting for G&Ts is perfect for you.

    Gin choices are up to taste, more classic unflavoured option will suit a purist palate while more flavoured and coloured gins work well for cocktails. Opting for a few pricey and some more budget options can help ease the pressure on your pocket too.

    Local gins are lovely and fall into a price bracket that is easier to budget for.

     

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    I’m off to a gin and canape tasting today at @12apostleshotel , which has me reflecting on this incredible gin bar from Rach and Matt’s beautiful wedding! See more of their gorgeous details on the blog! (link in profile) P.S. How stunning is their delft style patterned tablecloth? . . . Photography by @andstory.co.za #loveandthemoonweddings #loveandthemoon #loveandthemoonblog #loveandthemooncouples #loveintentionally #makeadventure #diyginbar #loveauthentic #filmpalette #littlethingstheory #adventurealways #portraitcollective #chasinglight #makemoments #momentsovermountains #elopementcollective #agameoftones #exploretocreate #letsgosomewhere #ginandtonicstyle #firstsandlasts #weddingtrendilove #weddingtrends2018 #weddingbar #weddingginbar #chicginbar

    A post shared by Love & The Moon Blog (@loveandthemoonweddings) on

    Garnish, garnish, garnish

    Opinions vary on how much garnish a gin drink should have, but whether you prefer your drink with a good splash of agriculture or a simple prig of thyme; garnish makes a drink.

    If you are looking for a way to save on your gin bar, an easy option is growing your own garnish well in advance. Thyme, rosemary, citrus and cucumber, among others, not only make for the perfect garnish options but are also easy to grow with enough foresight.

    Match your garnish to your taste, cocktail preference and availability.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    Is it gin o’clock yet? #bluecoatgin #gincocktails #ginbar #getintouch #weddingginbar ✨✨

    A post shared by Bluecoat Weddings (@bluecoatweddings) on

    Don’t forget the extras

    From ice, to bar tools, bartenders and a fridge to keep things cool; the things you don’t think about first can come back to bite you.

    In the end a good gin bar is all about ginspiration, a love for gin and planning. If you put enough time into ensure every box is ticked and all your extra necessities are covered your bar will be a hit and you can have your gin and drink it too.

    Picture: Instagram

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    The perfect pear engagement ring
    In Advice

    The perfect pear engagement ring

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    You’ve found your perfect partner, now find your perfect ring. If you are a lover of all things delicate and elegant, the pear shape may just be for you.

    Also known as the teradrop shape, the pear shape offers a stone a unique style. If you’d like a piece of this pear, read on for everything you need to know.

     

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    A post shared by Brilliant Earth (@brilliantearth) on

    The pear cut features 58 facets and is typically cut in the brilliant style. This hybrid shape is considered to be a blend of the round and marquise cut. Pear cut stones should have a length to width ratio of 1:5:1. The stone’s elongated shape makes the diamond appear larger, which is always a bonus.

    The stone is securely held in place by either three or five prongs, with one of the prongs at the point of the diamond to protect it.

    The beauty of this shape is that is allows the colour of the diamond to come across the strongest, so it best suited for yellow and pink stones. If the stone is larger than one carat, however, it may display some darkness towards its point. You will thus want a stone with even colour distribution throughout.

     

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    A post shared by Peppy Preciousness (@peppypreciousness) on

    This stunning shape was created in 1458 by Flemish diamond polisher Lodewyk (Louis) van Berquem of Brugge, Belgium. From its inception, the stone polarised the jewellery industry. Some loved its unusual shape while many disliked the stone because a large amount of the rough diamond is lost during the cutting process.

     

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    A post shared by Logan Farmer (@loganlynnn_) on

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by The Engagement Specialists (@brillianceindiamonds) on

    This stone elegantly elongates fingers, making it an excellent choice for an engagement ring. It’s also often the more affordable option. Pear shaped diamonds can cost anywhere between 10-30% less than a round diamond of the same carat weight, according to the Gem Society.

     

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    A post shared by Girl With A Diamond Ring (@girlwithadiamondring) on

    Feature image: Unsplash

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    Royal rings: Megan Markle's marvelous design
    In Celebs

    Best celebrity engagement snaps

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    An engagement is always an important time in a person’s life, and the way you announce it to the world is often equally exciting.

    Celebs have a few more eyes on them than the regular person, and many go big to announce their upcoming nuptials. We’ve rounded up our favourite celebrity engagement ring selfies and snaps. Warning, major ring envy might occur!

    Sophie Turner

    Game of Thrones star Sophie Turner and one-third of the Jonas Brothers, Joe Jonas got engaged in October 2017. Following a host of pre-wedding activities, this loved up-couple said ‘I do’ in 2019 at the Château de Tourreau in the South of France with their closest family and friends around them.

    This was their second wedding. The couple famously wed at a Las Vegas chapel after the Billboard Music Awards, and their nuptials were broadcast to the world via Diplo’s Instagram Live.

    They recently welcomed their first child, a girl named Willa.

    Katy Perry

    The Pirates of the Carribbean actor proposed to his California Girl On Valentine’s Day, presenting her with a unique flower-shaped diamond ring.

    They were meant to tie the knot in 2020, but have postponed their wedding due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In other exciting news, the couple are expecting the birth of their first child together very soon. Bloom already has a son with model Miranda Kerr.

    Jennifer Lopez

    Back in March 2019, baseball star Alex Rodriguez proposed to Jenny from the Block with a whopping 16-carat diamond ring estimated to cost somewhere between $1 million and $4.5 million.

    J-Lo and A-Rod had planned to say their “I-do’s” in Italy this year, but were forced to cancel amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

    Heidi Klum

    Heidi Klum and musician Tom Kaulitz became engaged in December 2018. They secretly married in February 2019 then followed it up with a stunning second beautiful ceremony on a yacht off the picturesque coast of Capri.

    They tied the knot onboard the famous Christina O,  following in the footsteps of Princess Grace Kelly and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis who also chose this yacht for their respective receptions.

    Priyanka Chopra

    Nick Jonas popped the question to Priyanka Chopra on her birthday while on holiday in Crete in 2018.

    The pair wed in spectacular fashion in 2019 in a three-day wedding blending Hindu and Christian traditions. They said ‘I do’ at the Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur, Rajasthan. Kevin and Joe Jonas, Sophie Turner, 30 Rock actor Jack McBrayer and Elizabeth Chambers Hammer were just a few of the notable names at this lavish wedding

    Margot Robbie

    Suicide Squad star Margot Robbie and British film producer Tom Ackerley married secretly in Australia in 2016. Only 50 guests were invited and weren’t even told the location of the wedding before the event.

    Kim Kardashian

    Super couple Kim Kardashian and Kanye West announced their engagement in October. The rapper went down on one knee in front of their family and friends while celebrating Kim’s 33rd birthday at the AT&T Park in San Francisco.

    They tied the knot on May 24, 2014 at the 16th-century Fort di Belvedere in Florence, Italy. The day before, they hosted their rehearsal dinner in he Palace of Versaille’s Hall of Mirrors.

    The West’s have four children together: North, Saint, Chicago and Psalm.

    Minnie Dlamini

    South African on-air personality, actress and model Minnie Dlamini and former football player Quinton Jones became engaged in December 2016.

    On July 8, 2017, the pair tied the knot in a stunning traditional wedding at Glenn Hills in Northern Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. They had their white wedding on September 16, 2017 at the Lourensford Wine Estate in Somerset West.

    Megan Markle

    Prince Harry and actress Megan Markle confirmed their engagement in December 2017. Markle’s ring features a gold band and three diamonds. The centre diamond was sourced from Botswana, a country very close to the couple’s hearts, and the two outer jewels come from Princess Diana’s personal collection.

    They followed up with their highly anticipated royal wedding on May 19, 2018 at the St George’s Chapel in Windsor Castle. The pair welcomed son Archie on May 6, 2019, just before their one-year wedding anniversary.

    Miranda Kerr

    Victoria’s Secret model Miranda Kerr and Snapchat CEO Evan Spiegel became engaged in July 2016. She posted an image of her ring along with a Bitmoji filter on her Snapchat to honour the occasion.

    The pair married on May 27, 2017 in an intimate ceremony at their California home. They reportedly had only 45 guests in attendance, and Kerr cooked and served the dinner. The pair share two children; sons Hart (2) and Myles (8 months). Kerr also has a nine-year-old son named Flynn with ex-husband Orlando Bloom.

    Demi Lovato

    Songstress Demi Lovato shocked fans when she announced she became engaged to actor Max Ehrich , who went down on one knee to propose on July 22, 2020 in Malibu, California. As he popped the question, “Crash Into Me” by Dave Matthews Band was playing.

    Emma Stone

    Saturday Night Live (SNL) writer boyfriend, Dave McCrary popped the question to Academy award-winning actress Emma Stone in December 2019. Stone’s antique-style engagement ring, one of 2020s biggest ring trends, is in full view.

    The pair first met on set of SNL when Emma was hosting the show back in 2016. They have been together for about two years. The couple is quite private, keeping their relationship under wraps from the beginning, and have been spotted together publicly only a handful of times.

    Images: Instagram

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