• Category

    Engagements

    Category

    This interracial South African couple’s proposal recently went viral on Youtube and the Facebook #ImStaying Group, proving that love should have no boundaries.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B2rlKw-J8nK/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    In a video posted to Youtube, Samuel Varrie proposes to his girlfriend of two years, Tshepiso Mathole. On their two year anniversary, Sam first had her read a flip book he made for her under the guise that it was just a gift. They then went to a beautiful park, where Sam proceeded to get down on one knee and propose. Since being posted a month ago, the video has racked up over 50 000 views.

    Watch the cute video here:

    The couple met in res at the University of Pretoria where they both studied. The pair were friends for two years but after they ran for chairperson and vice-chair of Tuks village, which they both got, the flame was ignited.

    They fell in love quickly, and after two years of dating, they are ready to get married.

    Sam spoke to Tshepi’s uncle beforehand to discuss all of the details because he wanted to follow customary law, but still wanted to keep everything a surprise. However, the uncle spilt the beans and told Tshepi that he met with Sam. According to Tshepi, nothing stays a secret in customary law.

    Out of respect for Tshepiso’s culture, Sam decided to engage in lobola negotiations. In order to do things right according to her culture, Sam’s family had to write a letter to the Tshepi’s family in which they detail their intentions to enter into union as families. The full negotiations will begin in December 2019.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B2roycnD4yf/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    “I wanted to share with people the love that we have,” Sam explains to Jacaranda FM about why they posted the engagement video. “There is such a genuine thing that can be amazing if you just look past your race”.

    Tshepiso says that although interracial relationships have become more normalised in society, they still get a lot of stares when they’re walking around. They’ve also experienced unsolicited comments when out in public.

    Picture: Youtube

    Sarah Hyland’s wedding to Bachelor star Wells Adams is inching closer and closer and the actress is getting her entourage ready for her wedding. Sarah recently invited a few of her gal pals over for brunch, and it’s here where she asked them to be her bridesmaids.

    Sarah chose a cute gift box to ask her friends. On the inside of the lid to the boxes, it read, ‘Will you be my bridesmaid? Love, Sarah’, which included her maid of honour as well.

    Earlier in October, Hyland asked her longtime friend and fellow actress, Vanessa Hudgens, to be one of her bridesmaids by sending Hudgens a sweet gift box. Hudgens shared the surprise with her followers on her Instagram stories. It consisted of a beautiful wooden box engraved with Hudgens’s first name and adorned with a white ribbon and decorative green and gold leaves.

    If you are preparing to ask your chosen friends/family to be your bridesmaids, but are feeling a bit uninspired, take a look at how actress Sarah Hyland popped the question:

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Box and Bow® | Lauren Rodgers (@boxandbow) on

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Vanessa Hudgens is my life ♥ (@paulyhudgens) on

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Sarah Hyland (@sarahhyland) on

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Sarah Hyland (@sarahhyland) on

    By Larissa Vermeulen

    Feature image: Instagram / Sarah Hyland

    You’ve finally set a wedding date and now it’s time to let your guests know when the big day will be taking place. With these 6 creative save the date ideas, you can be sure that they will make a lasting impression and won’t go straight into the bin.

    Calendar Cookie

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Devilish & Divine Pastry (@devilishanddivine) on

    Informative and yummy!

    Luggage tag

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Jenn Williams @CurrysLeather (@currysleather) on

    Always useful but especially relevant for a destination wedding.

    Candle

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by ConnellCandle’s (@connellcandles) on

    One can never have too many candles.

    Engraved Pencil

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by @yonavyd on

    Use it to add the wedding date to your calendar and for anything else you need to jot down.

    Bookmark

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Tracey’s Wedding Wishes (@traceysweddingwishes) on

    Now your guests can replace their scrap bookmark with a real one.

    Fridge Magnet

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Sarah Wants Stationery (@sarah_wants) on

    Use the magnet when the wedding invitation arrives and to add some fun to your fridge.

    Feature image: Unsplash

    So, your heart is fluttering and your mind has one ever-present thought: you’ve found the love of your life, the person you want to spend the rest of your life with. Wow! Now you need to think about popping the big question.

    Cape Town has plenty of romantic destinations for getting down on one knee to ask this all-important question.Whether it’s a beautiful vineyard or a stunning restaurant with a view, the Mother City has it all.

    Briony Brookes, Communications and PR Manager for Cape Town Tourism, shares her thoughts about the best spots for a romantic proposal to your loved one.

    Signal Hill:

    Signal Hill, with its panoramic views of the city, the ocean and the mountains, is a wonderful spot for watching a stunning Cape Town sunset. With a glass of bubbly in hand, it lends itself to being among the most romantic places to pop the big question. But, if this is your choice of location for the marriage proposal, arrive early so that you can select the best spot – before you are crowded out by the many other couples spending a romantic few hours together.

    Sweeping views of Cape Town from up high will get anybody inspired and happy. Credit: Instagram / ThaFunkJunkie

     

    Dash Restaurant & Bar:

    Smooth, soulful live jazz from Thursday to Saturday, elegant and chic decor and a panoramic backdrop of Table Mountain lit up in all its glory beneath a starry summer sky. This is the perfect location for an exclusive, romantic soiree. Dash Restaurant and Bar at the prestigious Queen Victoria Hotel is intimate while also being within the V&A Waterfront precinct. Arrive early and watch the sunset from the terrace before diving into their colourful new menu blending classic French and cultural Cape Malay-inspired cuisine. The restaurant is an idyllic setting for a special evening, such as when you’re asking for your partner’s hand.

    Dash restaurant. Credit: supplied

    Chapmans Peak Drive:

    Chapmans Peak Drive, or simply Chappies, is the Godfather of scenic drives in Cape Town. With the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Constantiaberg Mountains on the other, this road is an absolute joy to cruise down. There are also look-out spots and over 50 picnic spots along the road. So, when it comes to proposing, Chappies is undeniably one of the top spots.

    The view at sunset makes for a romantic atmosphere. Credit :supplied

    Cape Point Nature Reserve:

    If you’re looking for applause and a few damp eyes from inquisitive onlookers, then head for the top and pop the question alongside the iconic black and white old lighthouse at Cape Point. The dramatic views are unforgettable, and you will have the support and encouragement of a large audience of tourists making the trek to the top. What could be more meaningful than being congratulated in languages from all over the world?

    Cape Point offers scenic views for a perfect backdrop. Credit: supplied

    Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden:

    If your partner loves beautiful gardens and a romantic picnic, then Kirstenbosch will take their breath away! The meandering pathways and green areas lined with indigenous fynbos vegetation make for the perfect spot to lay down your picnic blanket and pop some bubbly (and the big question). Enjoy the incredible views from the Boomslang Canopy Walkway as you take a romantic walk together. With all this beauty and romance your partner will surely say yes!

    The beauty of nature will provide a romantic, stunning location for your proposal. Credit: supplied

     

    Picture: Unsplash

    Tattoos today have lost their bad reputation in exchange for declarations of love, relationships and personal expression. The most recent trend involves getting compatible tattoos with your significant other that doesn’t necessarily include their name or need to be the exact same.

    If you’re wanting to take the plunge and get inked with your S.O, take a look at these cool ideas:

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Anni Graham (@annigraham) on

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by J A Z M I N B O L S O V E R ? (@jazminabigailphotography) on

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by JENN HANFT (@jennhanft) on

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Joseph Sandoval (@joebloooow) on

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by David Ashton (@nautilus_uk) on

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Kim Gee (@geetattoos) on

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by KAITLIN SMITH (@kaitlin.m.smith) on

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Robin Studios (@robin_studios) on

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Èllëm • Ritual handpoke (@ellemhandpoke) on

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Pat (@pat_promenadenoire) on

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by The Wedding Tattooer (@theweddingtattooer) on

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Lora Bird (@honestbird) on

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Josan van den Broek (@storiesbyjosan) on

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Szima Norbert (@norbert.szima) on

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by barbisurman (@barbisurmantattoo) on

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by MARGARITA GRUBINA (@grubina_) on

    xxx

    By Yashna Balwanth

    Feature image: Unsplash

    Looking to get engaged soon? While there is no specific right time for everyone across the board, research has shown that people tend to get engaged on very particular days of the year.

    If you’re waiting to propose or to be proposed to, one of these dates might be of significance in your future.  These are the most popular days of the year to get engaged.

    Christmas:

    Christmas is one of the most popular Christian holidays of the year, so it makes sense that many people would get engaged on this day. Typically, people spend Christmas with their family, making it a great time for a proposal as everyone can celebrate together when the big question has been asked.

    Valentine’s Day:

    Of course the most romantic day of the year would be a popular time for engagements. Loved-up couples honour Saint Valentine by becoming betrothed on this special holiday. As a day particularly designed for romance, Valentines Day makes it easier to plan an elaborate proposal as your partner would not be suspicious of why you’re planning something.

    Christmas Eve:

    If Christmas is too stressful, Christmas Eve makes a perfect date to get engaged. Some families have a Christmas Eve dinner and exchange gifts then, instead of on Christmas itself. For Christmas lovers, the lead up to this festive event is just as fun and exciting. Because of this, Christmas Eve has become a popular date to get engaged.

     

    New Years Eve:

    The last day of the year makes for a great time for a proposal. People tend to be celebrating New Year’s Eve to usher in the new year, and are typically with their closest friends and family. This special day also provides a host of fun activities like watching fireworks, or going to a party. Those that decide to get engaged on this day thus start the new year on a high note.

     

     New Year’s Day:

    New Year’s Eve might be a bit too chaotic and busy for some people. On New Years Day, many people are reflective of their life and how they want to be better for the year ahead. Many have therefore chosen this day to begin the year with a big life change by getting engaged.

     

    Anniversaries:

    Anniversaries are dedicated days to celebrate your love and how far your relationship has come. Most couples tend to already have plans for their anniversary, and what better way to end it than with a proposal? It’s a great way to honour your love and commitment to one another.

     

    Birthdays:

    Birthdays are special days to honour someone’s life, making it the perfect time for a proposal. A ring makes for a great birthday present!

     

    The Saturday before Valentine’s Day:

    The Valentine’s spirit spreads the weeks before the lovers’ holiday. Considering most restaurants and vendors mark up their prices for Valentine’s Day, proposing the Saturday before the holiday makes for a more cost-effective time to propose while still having Valentine’s romance in the air.

     

    Picture: Unsplash

     

     

     

     

    Located on Cape Town’s bustling Foreshore lies the tranquil oasis that is the Mangwanani Boutique Spa. This world-class spa is found within The Cullinan hotel, and is the perfect place to unwind for a quick lunchtime massage or an entire day of pampered bliss.

    The Mangwanani Boutique Spa is located just by The Cullinan’s poolside (Source: Nidha Narrandes)

    Mangwanani Spas are famous across the country for their reliably good service and peaceful experience that leaves the client feeling like they’re floating on a cloud.

    Stepping into the spa’s reception area is already a pleasant experience in itself – the staff is friendly and the air smells of the unique oils Mangwanani masseuses use. The masseuse is ready for youe in no time, and you settle down into the soft white massage chair.

    I experienced the head and shoulder massage, and it’s one I am eager to have again.

    The welcoming area to the massage rooms of the beautiful spa (Source: Nidha Narrandes)

    The massage parlour itself is beautiful and dimly-lit – the decor is simple yet tasteful, and the masseuse’s hands transport you to another world as the experience begins. A form you fill out in reception will determine which pressure you prefer during the massage, and Mangwanani Spa’s masseuse applies it perfectly.

    The fragrant signature oils used will help you relax even more, and you’ll feel the tension begin to leave your body as the massage progresses.

    The music selection is soft and ambient, and only adds to the tranquility of the experience. While you’ve been treated to the most luxurious and relaxing massage of your life for half an hour, it seems all too soon when the masseuse gives you a final pat on your shoulders.

    The spa offers a variety of treatments, ranging from manicures and pedicures to full-body massages. Its convenient location makes it the perfect little day-cation spot as well, and the friendly staff will entice you to return again and again.

    Full package details can be found here.

    Location: Southern Sun The Cullinan, 1 Cullinan Street
    Cape Town, Western Cape, 8001
    South Africa
    GPS Coordinates: S33.915704, E18.424748
    Phone: 021 415 4075/6 (branch)
    Phone: 086 055 0055
    Oen: 08:00 am to 21:00 pm everyday.

    Picture: Pixabay

    Guys won’t admit it, but we are pretty sure they spend just as much time on grooming their beard as a woman would spend doing their make-up. We’re not here to judge, after all, self-care is crucial! Instead, we’re here to offer a few tips and tricks to aid in growing and maintaining that luscious facial hair.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Beardilizer ™ (@beardilizer) on

    Patience is a virtue

    Just like a fine wine, growing your beard takes time, and the longer you wait, the better it will be for you to work with. Avoid unnecessary trims, shaves and being fidgety – patience is the number one thing that is needed to make it grow. This should take about 4 – 6 weeks, depending on how fast or slow your hair grows.

    Necessary tools

    A good beard starts with the basic tools. Beard oils to soften the hairs and to avoid irritated skin, a beard brush to comb the oils through and keep your beard tangled-free, and lastly, a set of trimming scissors to cut those stray hairs and keep them in check with the rest of your beard.

    TRY: Red Dane Two-Phase Nourishing Oil

    Mug wash

    A beard is not only about the hair, but the skin underneath as well. Within the early stages of your beard growth plan, wash and condition your beard daily. This means washing it properly with your face wash and then working in that aforementioned oil from root to tip. Also, be sure to include an exfoliant weekly that can help remove the dead skin cells and avoid that awful itchy beard sensation.

    TRY: Cowshed Bullocks Refining Facial Scrub

    Vitamins & proteins

    Yes, seems like a weird tip to include in the list, however, your beard hair relies on the necessary B vitamins which include B5, B3 & B9. A good diet will not only do your health wonders, but your beard too.

    Beard-in-training

    Regular combing and maintenance are a way of helping the beard hairs stay in place and grow in the direction you need them to. Combing them will ensure the hairs are straightened to some degree, and using a beard wax or oil daily will also ensure the hairs are tamed. Before you know it, your beard will grow exactly how it needs to.

    TRY: Hairy Eye Average Joe Beard Balm

    By Yashna Balwanth

    Feature image: Unsplash