Engagements Archives | Page 26 of 45

In Advice

Youtube channels to keep you fit during lockdown

March 26, 2020 No Comments

The nationwide lockdown isn’t an excuse to lay in bed all day. Getting some exercise (in between your Netflix sessions, of course) will help keep you mentally sane and hopefully stop you from climbing the walls from boredom.

If you want to make some gains but can’t visit the gym, let Youtube be your new best friend. There are many fitness-dedicated Youtube channels offering up awesome workouts and encouraging healthy habits. Here are a few of our favourites.

Madfit:

Maddie’s video’s are done interval style. Her workouts are quick and easy to follow. Ranging in difficulty levels, you can find a workouts dedicated to specific body parts as well as fully-body workouts.

Each workout typically has 7-10 different movements in a set, each one done for 30-45 seconds with a short break in between. The set is then repeated a second time, allowing you to fine-tune your movements and really give it your all.

Best for: the person that likes to see there is an end in sight.

Pop Sugar Fitness:

Popsugar Fitness is great for those of all fitness levels. Here you can find full length workouts as well as shorter, targeted classes. Videos often feature celebrity trainers like Jeannette Jenkins and Jake Dupree.

What makes this channel so amazing is the sheer variety of workouts. From dancing to boxing, HIIT to yoga, there is something for everyone.

Best for: the person who believes variety is the spice of life

Whitney Simmons:

This channel mixes workout videos with practical lifestyle tips such as healthy food swaps to make and dieting mistakes to avoid.

Beyond her workouts, you’ll also fall in love with Whitney’s positivity. Her mantra, “It’s a beautiful day to be alive”, will hopefully keep you going through these trying times.

Best for: the person who needs their best friend to hold their hand through life but can’t right now because of social distancing.

Feature image: Pexels

In Rings

Should the bride choose her own ring?

March 25, 2020 No Comments

Choosing an engagement ring is tricky. Not only do you have to consider the cut, colour, carat, and setting style, but have to remember that each choice needs to match the previous one.

On top of this the ring receiver (in most cases the bride) has to like it. After all, she’s the one who’ll be wearing it for the rest of her life.

For this reason, people may consider having the bride choose her own ring. Now don’t get too upset at the idea! It doesn’t have to be a controversial move. I mean, we’re in the age of independence right? Women are making their own choices and this is just another one they would probably love to make for themselves.

If you’re not sold on the idea of the bride choosing her own ring. Here are some pros and cons, to help you make your final decision.

Pros

– You get to spend quality time together

It can be a lovely bonding experience for the two of you. Instead of it being a stressful time in store for one partner alone, it can be a way for you two to get to know each other even more.

– No guessing games

As mentioned before, there are a lot of decisions to make with rings. It’s also impossible to know what cut, colour, and setting style your bride will want without specifically asking her. So, instead of playing a guessing game while you consult the jeweller, have your partner by your side to make the decisions herself!

– Sets the tone for wedding planning

It’ll be the first wedding task you do together and will give you some insight into what the wedding planning will be like.

Cons

– Takes away the surprise factor

While you can still keep the date and proposal plans a surprise, your bride will know she’s getting proposed to sooner or later. That might take the fun out of it for many people.

– Waiting after buying

The bride will spend every second after choosing the ring in anticipation of the proposal coming her way. If she has to wait too long she might get frustrated, but you also don’t want to rush it. This could complicate things.

– Money-talk could get awkward

The bride will know the budget for the ring. Most couples are good with being open about these things, but if you aren’t then taking your bride ring shopping is probably not a good idea.

Image: Unsplash

In Engagements

A guide to engagement ring settings

March 25, 2020 No Comments

If you’re in the market for an engagement ring, you need to remember to keep the setting options in mind. It may seem trivial, but it makes a huge difference to the look and style of the ring.

Each setting has a different way of securing the diamond. Here is a cheat sheet to some of the most popular setting styles:

Halo

Additional diamonds are ordered in a circle or square around the main stone. This makes the centre gem look larger and increases the sparkle of the ring overall.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B7EWEkInayP/

Prong

This is the most common and classic setting. It features a metal claw, which grips the diamond. The setting can be round, pointed, v-shaped or flat. The setting does well to elevate the stone, bringing it to the attention of anybody looking towards your hand.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B56-3eOHvk-/

Tiffany

Of course, you can’t talk about rings without a mention of Tiffany. The Tiffany setting features six prongs, and is distinguished from the prong setting by the knife-like edge of its shaft and the design of its prongs.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BuDxRyrn9L9/

Cathedral

Taking inspiration from what it’s named after, this setting uses arches that resemble those of a cathedral to hold the diamond in place. It’s defining characteristic is how the diamond is mounted with the arches on top of the rest of the shank.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B3myeCYHxbx/

Channel

The channel setting secures other diamonds in the band, creating a row of sparkling gems that leads to the main stone. The one is great for those who love a little extra sparkle.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B9fJbDhlvkU/

Bezel

With its modern appearance, this one is quite popular too. The Bezel setting holds the diamond by encircling it with a metal rim. This setting holds the stone tightly in place and therefore is great for anybody who lives an active lifestyle.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B6hLZYiFYgR/

Tension

Named aptly, the tension setting holds your gem in place with tension of the metal band. The diamond seems to be suspended between the two edges of the band.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B7b9dIdAEkd/

Image: Unsplash

In Announcements

A heartwarming Love is Blind-inspired proposal

March 25, 2020 No Comments

With many of us practicing self-isolation at home, we’ve got lots of time on our hands to bingewatch a show or two (or 10!) One of thees binge-worthy shows has inspired a proposal.

Greg Teatom proposed to girlfriend Jillian Barnett in a unique manner inspired by hit Netflix show Love is Blind.

While practicing social distancing, Greg and Jillian stayed home and watched the popular tv show. Greg then suggested they reenact the show by pretending to be on a blind date of their own.

With Jillian isolated in another room, Greg prepped to pop the big question. After some small talk, as the couples on the show have, Greg asked Jillian, “What if I told you that you’re the love of my life, and I wouldn’t want to spend it with anyone else?” he asked. “What would you say to that?”

As Jillian exits the separate room, she is shocked to discover Greg down on one knee. Of course, she said yes!

Jillian shared the sweet moment to her Instagram page, writing, “After a few days of being stuck in the house & watching too many episodes of @loveisblindnetflix Greg said “let’s pretend we are in the pods on a blind date!” Little did I know he was on the other side preparing to propose! Safe to say I was in complete shock! I love you so much my love! I cannot wait to spend the rest of my life with you! – Even if we are never allowed to leave the house again! ???? #loveisblind #loveinthetimeofcorona @greg_teatom”

Watch the proposal here:

https://www.instagram.com/p/B99q6cVnwE9/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Congrats to the happy couple!

Feature image: Instagram / Jillian Barnett

In Announcements

Pro golfer Christiaan Bezuidenhout pops the question

March 23, 2020 No Comments

Despite living through a pandemic, love will always triumph. South African golfer Christiaan Bezuidenhout decided to go down on one knee this past week to prove exactly that.

The professional golfer popped the question to girlfriend, Kristen Hart at the Delaire Graff Estate outside Stellenbosch on Thursday, March 19.

Taking to Instagram, the golfer shared the exciting news, captioning the image “Best decision I’ve ever made. Looking forward to a lifetime with you!???”

Hart also shared a series of images from the special day, writing “Wow! Blessed to be able to spend the rest of my life with you @chrisbez07 ?
I Love you so much❤️”

https://www.instagram.com/p/B98gHuklelj/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Congrats to the happy couple!

Feature image: Instagram / Chrisbez07

In Advice

Date ideas to keep romance alive during self-quarantine

March 19, 2020 No Comments

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

In Engagements

Co-ed Bachelor and Bachelorette Parties: Pros and cons

March 17, 2020 No Comments

Bachelor and bachelorette parties began way back when. At their inception, they were about “the last hurrah”. In those times, after a couple was married they would barely see their friends anymore – no more poker nights or girl’s nights out.

Considering the reason why these parties were started, a wild night out with your best friends makes sense. These days, the traditional “final night of freedom” is not necessary. Couples are free to mingle with whomever they please after their nuptials.

For this reason, co-ed (or jack and jill) bachelor/bachelorette parties are becoming more and more popular. This is perfect for the bride and groom who don’t want to be separated the night before their big day! Some may still prefer the traditional style of these parties however, and that’s okay too.

Here are some pros and cons of a joint event:

Pro’s

– Saving money

You’ll save money in almost every area of planning including travel, food, accommodation (if its relevant), decorations and more. Package deals and block bookings will extensively lower your costs, as will splitting the bill!

– You’re there for each others fun

You’re getting married to each other, so we’re taking a wild guess here and assuming you love spending time together. With a joint party, you get to have fun together. That’s probably the best part.

– Everyone gets to know each other

All your friends will get comfortable with each other, for all the upcoming dinners and games nights you’ll be hosting as a married couple. The groomsmen and bridesmaids will also get to mingle before the wedding, which means they’ll be much more comfortable on the day.

Con’s

– Some guests may be disappointed

Some of your friends may be expecting a traditional affair. For this reason, they may be a bit disappointed when they see that it’s a mixed occasion. Be sure to indicate on the invitation that the event is co-ed, and be as clear about it as you can.

– You’ll have less time with your friends

While you will get some extra time with your special person before the big day, you’ll be sacrificing some quality time with your besties. Make sure you’re willing to give this up before you decide to go for a co-ed party.

– Plans will have to be good for both groups

This one is difficult. You and your partner may be into the same things, but that doesn’t mean you do the same activities with your friends. Finding an activity that will suit everyone may pose a bit of a challenge, but it’s definitely doable.

Image: Unsplash

In Engagements

How to tell if your diamond is real

March 17, 2020 No Comments

Buying a diamond is a huge decision. It can get very expensive and for that reason you want it to last a lifetime. It’s best, then, to ensure you’re buying a real diamond before you make the purchase.

If you’ve already bought it, and are having some doubts about its authenticity, worry not because there are some way you can determine this.

Don’t get caught out by diamond replacements such as cubic zirconia or moissanite, and ensure you don’t have a fake on your hands using these tests:

– The water test

A diamond has high density, so it shouldn’t float in water. All you need to do is fill a glass with water and drop the diamond in. If it floats, it’s fake.

– The fire test

Use a lighter to heat the gem for no less than 30 seconds, then drop it into ice-cold water. If the stone remains unharmed then it’s real and if not then it’s fake. Weaker materials cannot handle the rate of expansion and contraction that’s provided through this test. A diamond, however, will withstand it.

– The fog test

This one is quick and easy. Hold the diamond close to your mouth and try to fog it up. If it stays fogged for more than 4 seconds, it’s likely that it’s fake. This is because diamonds disperse heat easily, which means it’s quite difficult to fog up.

For this test to work, your stone has to be completely clean with no oils covering it.

– Black light test

Of course you’ll need a black light for this test. Turn off the lights, shut the curtains and hold the stone in front of the black light. Most diamonds will reveal blue fluorescence. If you see slight green, yellow, or grey, your diamond is fake. It’s important to remember that for this test, that not all diamonds will reveal blue fluorescence.

– Imperfections test

Look at your gem through a magnifying glass. If you don’t find imperfections, you have a fake on your hands. A real diamond will have imperfections, referred to as inclusions.

– The dot test

Draw a small dot on a white piece of paper and put the stone onto the dot, with the flat side down. Looking through the pointed side of the diamond, try to see the dot. If you see a circular reflection, the diamond is fake.

Diamonds have strong refractive qualities. Therefore, light bounces around in all directions instead of in a straight line. Because of this, you won’t be able to see the dot through a real diamond.

It’s important to remember that these tests are not 100% conclusive. If you’re still unsure by the end of these tests, then the best option is to head over to a diamond expert who will have the necessary equipment to investigate.

Image: Unsplash

In Engagements

Mutual proposals, equally romantic and less stressful

March 17, 2020 No Comments

A surprise proposal, a public proposal, a quiet and intimate proposal. All considered extremely romantic. But, you almost never see people talking about mutual proposals while gushing about how romantic it is. We’re here to tell you they can be just as great.

A mutual proposal is exactly what it’s name suggests. Both people propose to each other. Getting engaged is a choice; a choice made by both parties involved. So why not have both parties be involved in the proposal too!

Take Love is Blind couple Giannina and Damian for example. While Damian was unaware the proposal would be mutual, he was tearful with joy as Giannina proposed in return. This is one of the best pro’s of a mutual proposal – both parties get to feel adored, special, loved and wanted. What could be more romantic than that?

https://www.instagram.com/p/B9m67Qtjtgg/

Another reason couples are choosing to go the mutual proposal route is because of the greater meaning of equality. More and more, people are shedding the expectations that come with being a certain gender.

“Couples we’re seeing who are doing mutual proposals really want to be equal partners in every way, and don’t subscribe to heteronormative, socially prescribed gender roles,” said Kirsten Palladino, editor of Equally Wed magazine, to the Guardian.

On top of all of this, proposing can be a huge source of anxiety! You want it go be perfect, so you put extreme pressure on yourself to ensure everything run’s smoothly. If both parties are in on the proposal, this stress is significantly decreased. This means the proposal will be much more enjoyable.

While a mutual proposal may seem as though it takes some romance out of the equation, we beg to differ. It actually prolongs the proposal period, which means more romance. Everything that one partner usually does alone, can be done side-by-side. Choosing a ring, planning the day, making dinner reservations, you name it.

If you really want to surprise your partner, but still want a mutual proposal there’s a way around it! Each partner can take one half of the day to carry out their proposal plans. This way the plans are a surprise, but the proposal remains mutual.

If you’re not yet convinced about how great they can be, check out these real life mutual proposals. They’ll definitely change your mind:

https://www.instagram.com/p/B8pR4eyFSV5/

https://www.instagram.com/p/B8gadq2lO_z/

https://www.instagram.com/p/B6W7Wushri8/

https://www.instagram.com/p/B8l0vkGgimp/

Image: Instagram / proposetoo

In Announcements

Woman shares engagement news through care facility window

March 17, 2020 No Comments

With the coronavirus sweeping through almost every nation, strict restrictions are in place to keep those who are most vulnerable safe. The elderly are one of the most at risk groups. This Lake Waccamaw woman made the best of a difficult situation, and managed to give her grandfather some good news despite visitor restrictions at his care facility.

The recently engaged Carly Boyd desperately wanted to share her good news with her grandfather. Since visitors are not allowed at the care facility where he resides, she had to find her way around the restrictions. The result, caught on camera by the facility’s administrator, Gennie Parnell, was truly heartwarming.

Boyd stood at her grandfather’s window and showed off her engagement ring. She and her grandfather then touched hands against the glass of the window.

Credit: Premier Living and Rebab Center Info Page

“Even though visitation is restricted at this time, staff suggested an alternative,” said Premier Living & Rehab Center (the facility where Boyd’s grandfather resides) in a Facebook post.

“Emotional and memorable, for sure!! Thank you for allowing us to capture this special moment!!,” they added.

The bride-to-be is a student at Southeastern Community College, she is in pursuit of a qualification to become a Registered Nurse. Trevor Sellers, her fiance, is a contractor with the Department of Transportation. Hopefully this happy couple will have a chance to properly celebrate with Boyd’s grandfather soon!

In the meantime, however, the Community Activity Coordinator at the facility, April Bass, says that they are working hard to make sure residents still have contact with relatives.

Congrats to the happy couple, and the proud grandfather!

Image: Facebook / Primier Living & Rehab Center Info Page