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In Engagements

Man plans surprise proposal and livestream

April 9, 2020 No Comments

Quarantine engagements are becoming more and more popular, and even celebrities are participating. Of course, an intimate at-home proposal is lovely, but if you wanted to have your family involved you may be a bit disappointed.

PJ Bruno couldn’t let it go, he was determined to include family and friends in this surprise proposal to girlfriend, Jaz Zepatos. After being together for three years, Bruno wanted an elaborate proposal, but with the coronavirus pandemic controlling things, he had to come up with a new idea.

He decided to invite his friends and family to watch the proposal live, on March 27. Google Hangouts was his streaming service of choice. Bruno’s mother recorder the proposal in person, while one of his friend’s watching the live stream screen recorded it.

“In the midst of global chaos, Bruno managed to find a way to gather our closest friends and family to create one of the most magical moments of my life,” Zapatos wrote on an Instagram post. “Thank you to everyone who took part in our special day from the safety of your homes. We love you so much.”

This story is not unlike many others at this time. With the coronavirus pandemic sweeping the globe, many are being creative and finding a way to share their joy with their loved ones who are not physically close to them. While it’s a common story in these times, it remains wholesome and heartwarming, just what we all need.

On her Instagram post you can see the full proposal, and the moment she realises they are being live streamed.

Watch it here:

https://www.instagram.com/p/B-SDGo-D08Q/

https://www.instagram.com/p/B-SGSMuFdcA/

Congrats to the happy couple!

Image: Screenshot

In Engagements

Moissanite: An ethical engagement ring alternative

April 8, 2020 No Comments

For those ethically opposed to the diamond trade, there are a multitude of alternative stones to choose from to centre your engagement ring. If you like the look of diamonds but desire something more sustainable and affordable, why not consider a moissanite stone?

Moissanite stones finely resemble diamonds, and only experts can tell a difference between the two.

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Made from meteorites from outer space, natural moissanite is much more rare than diamonds. It was first discovered in a meteor crater in 1893 by scientist Henri Moissan. Moissan mistakenly thought the crystals inside the crater were diamonds because of its extreme likeness.

Today, the majority of moissanite stones are lab grown and it takes about 2-3 months to make a single stone.

To tell a moissanite and a diamond apart, one would have to look very closely at its fire and brilliance. With a refractive index of 2.65, moissanite is much more brilliant and is known for its “disco ball” effect in which rainbow light quickly flashes from the gem.

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The main differences are not visible, they are technical. With a 9.25 rating, moissanites rank lower on the Mohs scale of hardness than the diamonds hardy 10. Moissanites also typically weigh about 15% less than diamonds. As a result, moissanites are sold by their length and width in millimeters rather than carat size like diamonds are.

Since the majority of moissanite stones are lab grown, it’s a much more ethical choice than natural diamonds. The reality of diamond mining is anything but romantic. Environmental devastation and human rights abuse has been synonymous with the trade for decades, leading many modern couples to avoid going for ‘blood diamonds’.

Of course, the biggest difference is often the price point. Moissanite is much cheaper than diamond. Gem Rock Auctions estimates that a moissanite stone of a similar size in appearance can cost up to 90% less than a diamond would.

Opting for a moissanite over a diamond is down to preference. The differences are miniscule, so it is reallythe production of the stone and the price of the stone that sways buyers.

Feature image: Pexels

In Advice

How hand sanitizer affects your engagement ring

April 3, 2020 No Comments

With the spread of the coronavirus in South Africa and across the world, people are much more conscious about hygiene. Specifically hand hygiene. All we’ve heard from our leaders is for weeks is “wash your hands, don’t touch your face”. This has led to an increase in the use of hand sanitizer.

The hand sanitizer you should be using consists of about 70% alcohol (isopropyl or ethyl) mixed with water, glycerine and fragrance.

You’d think that no harm can come from using proper hand sanitizer. After all, you’re trying to protect yourself from a pandemic. While you’re taking care of yourself, however, be sure to take care of your engagement ring too!

It turns out that hand sanitizer is quite bad for your ring, especially when it’s used excessively (much like we’re all doing these days). According to James Allen, an online diamond and bridal jewellery retailer, contact with cleaners that contain chlorine, bleach, and rubbing alcohol “can break down the brilliance of metals and gems over time”. The last thing you want is for your ring to lose it’s sparkle!

Experts at James Allen also warned of a different way the sanitizer could be ruining your ring. “Extensive hand sanitizer use can also loosen prongs that hold diamonds in place,” they said. This means you’re putting your diamond at risk. It could loosen and fall out without you noticing.

Of course, we don’t want these risks to stop you from practicing good hygiene. Quite the opposite, actually.

All you need to do is remove the ring from your finger each time you sanitize and you should be good to go! Remember to wait until your hand dry’s before placing the ring back on your finger.

If you really want to protect your ring, you could choose to remove it until the coronavirus pandemic passes. Bacteria can make its way into the grooves of your ring. If you don’t plan on cleaning the ring, it may be better to store it away until this all blows over.

It’s not that difficult to clean your ring though! So, if you want to keep wearing it, simply pop it in some warm water with dish washing soap at least once a week! Voila, good hygiene and a ring that remains safe and sound.

Image: Unsplash

In Announcements

Dad incorporates newborn baby into sweet proposal

April 3, 2020 No Comments

The birth of your first child is a pretty special moment, what could possibly make it better? Well, how about a marriage proposal? That was this new dad’s exact thinking when he decided to involve their newborn baby in his adorable proposal.

Scott Gretton and Rachel Taylor from Hartlepool in England welcomed baby boy Oscar into the world on Tuesday, March 31 after a gruelling 25-hour labour.

While Scott was there for the birth, he was not allowed to stay due to strict COVID-19 measures in place. He returned the next day and secretly plotted with the midwives to dress baby Oscar in a custom-made babygrow that read, “Mammy, will you marry my daddy?”

Credit: Facebook / University Hospital of North Tees

Speaking to the Hartlepool Mail, Scott explained, “I have discussed with Rachel about proposing before – I’d bought a ring a couple of weeks ago and got two yeses from her family so I was ready.

“I’m not sure she expected me to ask the question while she was still in the delivery unit though!

“Luckily it all worked out – she saw the message and said yes!”

“I’m so grateful to all of the maternity team. The care was second to none and the midwives were so helpful setting up the big surprise.”

Feature image: Facebook / University Hospital of North Tees

In Advice

Romantic home proposal ideas

April 2, 2020 No Comments

So lockdown ruined your big proposal plans but you can’t keep the secret inside any longer? It looks like an at-home proposal is your only choice! There’s no need to worry though, there are more than a few ways to make it special.

If you’re in search for some at home proposal ideas, we’ve got you covered. Here’s how to get your love locked in during lockdown:

– The games night proposal

If you’re a playful pair, plan your proposal around a games night. You could do it under the guise of keeping busy on another night under quarantine. Set out a scrabble board, and throughout the game try to spell out words that eventually lead up to “will you marry me?”. “say yes?” or “wife/husband?”.

Alternatively, you could play charades, pictionary, or any such guessing game, and take your proposal from there! Act out or draw marriage, and then get down on one knee.

– The classic dinner proposal

Cook your soon-to-be a romantic dinner, decorate the table with candles, and do it just like they do in the movies. After some casual dinner-time conversation or perhaps during dessert, pop the question.

– The pet proposal

We know those of you with fur babies don’t want to leave the little ones out of anything! Plan to have your pet involved, by placing the ring on their body (without hurting them of course). Have your pet approach your partner for them to find the ring.

– The treasure hunt proposal

Hide the ring, write down some clues, and make a fun activity out of your proposal. Tell your partner you’ve got them a gift but they need to go on a treasure hunt for it. Voila, a fun and flirty at home proposal.

– The pamper proposal

Treat your significant other to a spa day, full with DIY face masks and a massage, perhaps even a bubble bath. After they’ve relaxed to the max, and you’ve built up the nerve then get down to business.

Good luck with your proposals!

Image: Unsplash

In Advice

A guide to wedding dress shopping online

April 1, 2020 No Comments

Online shopping can be risky business. There’s always a chance, no matter how small, that you end up with something that’s not quite what you were expecting. If you’re considering switching from window shopping to (Microsoft) Windows shopping, then read on!

We’re absolutely certain that you don’t want to be the bride who buys her dress online and, on delivery, instantly regrets it. As with everything, there are pros and cons of online wedding dress shopping. However, there is something to be said for the convenience, savings, and options that come with the online experience.

Whether you’re sick of making your way through racks and racks of dresses, or you’re simply not keen on the idea of hunting for dresses in store, online wedding dress shopping could be a great option.

If this is the route you’re taking, then keep these tips in mind:

– Measurements

You need to know the measurements of your bust, waist, and hips. If you don’t know these, your dress will not be the best fit it can be. Brides who have undertaken the online shopping experiment report that a great way to find your fit is to go in store (oh no!) and fit on some dresses there, with the sole purpose of finding what fits you. Once you’re clued up on your measurements, pop back online and get searching. Of course, you could just use the trusted measuring tape.

– Fabrics

Be familiar with fabrics and how they look and feel. You wouldn’t want a detail like this to ruin what you expected to be your perfect dress.

– Policies

Look, we’ve said it once and we’ll say it again. There are always risks with online shopping. Before you make this very important purchase, find out what the online store’s policies are. Imagine you’re unable to return a dress that has turned out to be a Halloween costume! The horror!

– Social media

Check across all social media platforms for brides wearing a similar dress to the one you’ve chosen. It’ll give you a good idea of how the dress looks in real life!

– Read reviews

Be sure to check the online reviews of the stores you’re shopping at. You’ll either see many angry customers or tons of happy brides. This will help you decided whether to keep shopping there.

– Read carefully

Be aware of common terms like “fully lined” and “partially lined”. The latter will have you in a see-through dress on your special day. Pull out those comprehension skills and read the dress descriptions carefully.

Image: Unsplash

In Advice

Glow from home: 3 ways to naturally radiate

March 31, 2020 No Comments

With life on lockdown, things can start feeling a bit grey and gloomy. Nothing beats a slump quite like some self-care. Feel lighter and brighter with these three tips on how to glow from home.

1. Home-glow face: Amp up your natural beauty with a DIY face mask that will get your skin shimmering without synthetic products – it’s all you! Keep it simple with a coffee and turmeric mask. Caffeine reduces inflammation and puffy eyes, while antioxidant-rich turmeric takes care of the glow. The recipe requires 1 tablespoon of each of these ingredients mixed: ground coffee, powdered turmeric, and Greek yoghurt. Remove the mask after about 20 minutes and voila!

2. Home-glow hair: There’s no better time to give your hair a break and restore your natural oils. Use this time to let your hair breathe. Lay off the dye, ties and heat. Make a homemade mask or let your roots grow out a bit more than usual. Embrace your regrowth now and support a local salon later.

Wella professionals can’t wait to work with your rejuvenated locks. Don’t do damage out of desperation. Wait it out for Wella’s new Opal-Essence range from Illumina Colour. Soft, subtle, shimmering – it’s worth the wait! You’ll be your own ray of sunshine.

3. Home-glow body: A well-rested, well-nourished body manufactures its own natural radiance. Take time to prepare wholesome meals that get you beaming from the inside out. Smoothies are a great way to pack in nutrients. Try including glow-worthy ingredients like spinach, berries, avocado and mango.

Feature image: Unsplash

In Advice

How to preserve a wedding dress at home

March 27, 2020 No Comments

Your wedding dress is probably the most loved item in your wardrobe. You may never own another piece of clothing as special as this. Of course you’d want to preserve it!

Preserving a wedding dress means different things to different people. It could be to store away treasured memories, to keep it safe and in good condition for your child to wear one day, or to ensure that it becomes a family heirloom. Whatever your reason, you’ll want to do it properly.

The last thing you want is for the dress to be ruined over time, or to trust somebody else with the preservation only to find out 30 years later that it’s the wrong dress (tragic).

So to be sure you get the best preservation possible, here are some tips:

– Plan ahead

If you know you’re a sentimental person, keep some of your budget aside for dress preservation. This can include a budget for a trip to the cleaners, and any items you may need to do at home preservation. (or to get your dress professionally preserved)

– Handle with care

On your big day you should keep in mind that this is an item you want to keep forever. Try to avoid getting stains on it, carry it in a garment bag if you’re travelling, and only put in one at the last minute.

– Clean the dress

After the wedding, but before the preservation process, you have to clean the dress. Of course you could take it to the cleaners, but if you want to do it yourself you need to be aware of the materials your dress is made of. Don’t use harsh laundry detergent and never use bleach.

If you preserve the dress without cleaning it first, all the tiny stains and marks will set and will become impossible to remove in later years.

– Acid Free tissue paper

At this point, if you’re enlisting the help of a professional, your dress will be put into a preservation box and will be sealed (commonly, you’re advised to never break the seal unless you want to use the dress).

If you’re DIY-ing then you better get some acid-free tissue paper or pre-washed unbleached muslin. Place layers of tissue paper or muslin between folds of the dress. Stuff the bust with tissue paper too, this helps to maintain shape over time.

NB! Do not use coloured tissue paper, it’ll stain the dress over time.

– Acid free container

After it’s folded, store the dress in an acid free container. Add silica desiccant packets inside the box.

– Store in a cool dry place

We all have heard this phrase before, but this time it’s serious. Don’t skip this step. If you’re thinking of storing the dress in the attic, basement or garage…DON’T! Cool and dry is the best option. Under a bed or in a closet is probably the best way to go.

– Check in

If you’ve preserved the dress yourself, you have to check in on it now and then. Every 2 -3 years, have a look at it and maybe give it a re-fold.

Image: Unsplash

In Advice

Wedding tasks to do during lockdown

March 26, 2020 No Comments

Just because you’re on lockdown, doesn’t mean productivity can be thrown out the window. With all the extra time on your hands, why not put it to good use by prepping for your big day?

Here are some ways to plan your wedding during lockdown.

Fine tune your Pinterest boards

The first step in any wedding plan is to consult the oracle: Pinterest. Take a deep-dive into this app to craft your perfect day, from your wedding dress all the way to take-home favours. Creating Pinterest boards helps refine your ultimate vision, as well as show others involved in the planning process what you want. Happy scrolling!

Research wedding vendors

Even though they won’t be operating now, most wedding vendors have amazing, informative websites where you can research their offerings in depth. Some wedding venues even offer virtual tours, making it easier for you to suss out the grounds from the comfort of your home. Always make sure to check out their social media pages too, especially the review section. This might save you from some dodgy dealers.

Update your registry

Being at home makes you really realise what you need and don’t need. Now’s the time to think about what would make your life easier or just better. Developed a coffee addiction during lockdown? Add a coffee plunger to the list. Realised the cozy life really is for you? Boom: fluffy blanket.

Plan your playlist

Music can make or break a good party. Since you’ve got all this free time you might as well fill it with some great tunes. Give Spotify a try to discover new artists and find that special song for your first dance. You can also make a list of your favourite ‘feel good’ songs, which will make your DJ or wedding band’s job so much easier.

Learn a new dance

You want to look as good as possible when you take to the floor for your first dance as newlyweds, so why not learn from a professional? Youtube is an amazing resource for those wanting to gain new skills. Whether its the tango or hip-hop, there is a multitude of masterclasses you can follow in your own living room.

Feature image: Pexels

In Bridal Party

Bachelorette party squad photo inspiration

March 26, 2020 No Comments

As the last fling before the ring, your bachelorette party is a special time to celebrate with your nearest and dearest. Whether you’re going big with a destination trip or laying low with a casual day in the sun, you’re going to want to remember this day.

Regardless of your plans, there are so many fun group picture ideas that will show the ‘gram exactly why you all are squad goals. Don’t forget to cement those memories with one of these fun photo ideas:

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Feature image: Unsplash