• Category

    Engagements

    Category

    There is a unique sense of nostalgia and class connected to a vintage look. It allows us to revel in the past and bring to light the unique aspects of times come and gone that we love.

    A big upside of vintage wedding touches is that they are very affordable and appear far more expensive than they actually are. If you know where to look, you can steal yourself vintage items to add a splash of old-world glamour to your day without breaking the bank.

    Vintage crockery

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    If you’re planning a picnic celebration, don’t forget you can hire your picnic crockery, cutlery and glassware from me. Celebrations now come in all shapes and sizes and my first wedding picnic order is heading out this weekend. ? Drop me a message if you’re not sure of which items to hire. This is one of my 8″ plates, perfect for picnics and grazing. ? Starter size cutlery is also ideal for this informal style of catering. ? Don’t forget you are helping the planet by hiring #preloved pieces ??? . . . Venue: @boreplace⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Photography: @onelove_pictures⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Flowers & Styling: @bohotanical⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Plates, Cutlery, Cake Stands & Glassware: @harrietstable⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Stationary: @madebyraedesigns_uk⠀ @sustainableweddingmovement . . . #ecowedding #ecoweddings #englishwedding #vintagecrockeryhire #vintagechinahire #harrietstable #veganwedding #gardenwedding #weddingpicnic #eco-friendly #ecobride #wildflowerwedding #sustainablewedding #bohobride #bohowedding #alternativewedding #vintagewedding #antiques #cutleryhire #glasshire #vintagecrystal #bohostyle #greenvelvet #relaxedwedding #vintagepicnic #picnic #gardenparty #weddingideas #eastgrinstead

    A post shared by HARRIET’S TABLE | Event Hire (@harrietstable) on

    Plates and other crockery items can wrack up a huge bill. Scooping up some cute bargain items from your local vintage store can make a significant financial difference.

    Finding matching items may be a bit of a challenge but a miss-matched collection of plates or glasses of a similar style ensure originality and add a touch of the unusual to your wedding tables.

    The dress

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    {Coming Soon} 常說白紗好像都有固定姿態, 但我就是個包拗頸的蕃薯仔。 就這樣等待有相同理念的伙, 同樣單純地, 喜歡波希不隨波逐流的態度, 也喜歡沒規則的創作跟自由。 追求細節也追求做自己的生活態度。 因為人嘛, 天生就不羈放縱愛自由嘛。 Be Yourself Be a Unique Bride! 新裙快將上架嚕✨ . *SAMPLE SALE ONLINE* www.bysilentsiren.com/samplsale . Accessories New items: www.bysilentsiren.com/shop . on SALE Accessories *Online Shop 限定*: www.bysilentsiren.com/sale . . #bohoweddingdress #hkbrideshop #hkbride #taiwanbridal #vintage #gardenwedding #vintagewedding #weddingday #weddingidea #bridestory #weddinginspiration #indiebride #bride #bride2020 #bridetobe #bridelook #madeinhongkong #hkbrideshop #hkbridetobe #bridestyle #vintage #vintagelove #vintagelover #modernvintage #weddingbouquet #fashion #fashionbride #bohostyle #bohowedding #weddinggoals #theuniquebride #popeye

    A post shared by SILENTSIREN. with BRIDALs’ (@bysilentsiren) on

    A wedding dress can set you back a few bucks for sure, but a vintage upcycled option can save you thousands.

    Opting for a vintage ensemble not only ensures that your dress will be the only of its kind but also allows you to add your own touch to the dress with inspiration from its class style.

    Plus, you’ll be saving enough money to put a little extra towards your honeymoon.

    Vintage props

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    ✨Unique prop collection✨ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Are you looking for finishing touches that will make your wedding stand apart from others? ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ As part of my rebrand I’ve been having a clear out! There are so many fantastic suppliers out there with a huge range of decor, that it seemed silly to try and offer you ‘more of the same’. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Therefore I have decided to streamline, and make my collection more considered in terms of the aesthetic I’ll be offering. There will still be variety, but the items I’m keeping are the unique finishing touches that I believe will add originality and personality to your wedding or event. Pieces with history; some that have been lovingly made by hand, vintage pieces sourced from around the world and repurposed objects. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ There will also be a staple range of multifunctional items staying, but all of them will be pieces that can be styled in different ways to help you create pockets of interest and excitement around your venue + display key decorative aspects. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ My bespoke design and create services will perfectly compliment the idea of styling the props in my collection to help tell your own personal love story ? ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Or you will be able to ‘dry hire’ for a more DIY approach. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Pink suitcase anyone?! ? ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ #wedding #somersetweddinghire #weddingtrend #uniqueprop #uniqueprophire #alternativewedding #engaged #rusticwedding #bohowedding #bohoweddingsomerset #pinkwedding #stylemepretty #weddinginspo #pinksuitcase #somersetwedding #weddingdecor #somersetprophire #weddingideas #diywedding #gettingmarried #ihavethisthingwithpink #weddingstylist #prophire #vintagewedding #weddingdetails #2021weddingtrend #weddingwednesday #somersetweddinginspo #coolwedding #bohoismyjam

    A post shared by Somerset Weddings + Handmade (@irisbettycreativedesign) on

    From renting to buying to using something from your own collection, props bring a vintage-inspired wedding together.

    The great thing about vintage props is there are a huge variety to choose from, while still ensuring a high level or originality.

    Hang lace curtains, drape old timey crochet items and stack vintage suitcases, the options are endless.

    Go classic with your flower choices

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    Rustic neutrals ✨? Tag a future bride in the comments below who would love this bouquet!

    A post shared by LavishFloralDesign|GoldCoast (@lavishfloraldesign) on

    Draw on the inspiration of yesteryear and style your flower arrangements with a touch of vintage flare.

    Neutral tones, delicate buds and dainty details radiate vintage, so be sure to play up your theme in your flower arrangements as well.

    Vintage sparkle

    Rings don’t have to be the latest fashion or a huge chunk of a diamond. For grooms and brides who prefer the simpler things in life and are looking to honour their love for vintage style, a re-purchased set of rings is a great option.

    While you won’t be spending as much as you would on a brand new diamond ring, vintage jewellery is in no way a cheap option.

    Some unique antique pieces can set you back a hefty sum but there is also the option to go for new age vintage-inspired pieces as well.

    Wherever you buy your pieces, make sure you trust your seller and you’re getting the piece you’re paying for.

    Vintage beauty

    The bride can tie the whole theme together with a little vintage beauty. Vintage hairstyles have a flawless and classic look that will age well in your wedding pictures for years to come.

    Add a vintage makeup look and beauty details that reference your favourite years gone by and you’re all set.

    The cake

    The ultimate vintage vibe can be invoked with a classic yet stunning cake.

    From light layers dusted with cane sugar to flower topped sponge delights, add your personal touch to your cake with a vintage twist to bring the whole theme together.

    Image: Instagram

    When the news surfaced that Kourtney Kardashian and Travis Barker had gone lowkey with their wedding (a simple courthouse ceremony with a guest list you could count on one hand) people began to speculate that something bigger was in the works.

    Ellen von Unwerth

    And, as internet sleuths often are, the suspicions were right!

    Little under a week since their original wedding, the pair celebrated their married status with an incredible Italian wedding bash on Sunday, 22 May, at Castello Brown, Portofino, as per Page Six.

    As expected, the Kardashian-Jenner clan all attended, with brother Rob Kardashian’s attendance still in question.

    NINO/GC Images

    Kourtney’s dress saw a magnificent mini Dolce & Gabbana wedding number, with a veil longer than the hem, inspired by a tattoo on the back of Travis’s head, accompanied by gloves and white heels. Travis played the perfect pairing with his black suit, also by Dolce & Gabanna.

    Ellen von Unwerth

    Kourtney later swapped the vision of white for a striking black dress again featuring matching globes and a Virgin Mary emblem in the centre of the dress – something many have likened to a copy of a similar dress sister Kim wore in 2017. But hey, if it goes with the energy, let it prevail!

    @kourtneykardashian

    More wedding details reveal that Kris Jenner was reportedly getting down on the dance floor, Travis gave a heartfelt speech with his new wife by his side, the clan’s union of children from their respective sides were happily present, and the internet’s most fascinating couple, Megan Fox and Machine Gun Kelly were also in attendance, as per E!

    Picture:Ellen von Unwerth

    You’re looking for the perfect spot to pop the question (or you keep imagining the magical place that will serve as your proposal setting, soon to be hinted at when you spontaneously take your partner there).

    However, with so many options in places like Cape Town, picking one place can be overwhelming for the best of us.

    Before we drop the deets on 6 special spots to ‘pop the question’ in Cape Town, it’s worth noting a few disclaimers.

    1. No matter where you choose, even if it’s the comfort of your own garden, it will still be a special moment. The place doesn’t define the importance of asking someone to spend their life with you, the person does!

    2. Too much pressure on getting everything perfect can take away from your own enjoyment of the moment, or your partners.

    3. Some of the most magical and tear-jerking proposals have happened in the most obscure places, or the ones that are personal to your relationship. If your partner is sentimental, then proposing at their favourite sunset spot, the place you went on your first date, or somewhere where you both remember laughing for hours can mean far more than a place boasting grandeur or tantalising views.

    Now, for those who are all about scenery, and places that are known for their romantic spins, here are some top picks in the Mother City:

    1.The Rock sunset spot

    Known for its incredible views, The Rock sunset spot marries intimacy and Cape sunsets are their finest, an incredible spot to share with the person to whom you’d give the whole sunset eternally if you could. The Rock is a perfect ‘pop the question spot’ that applies to any kind of lover, but fits best for the one who always ensures that watching the sunset together is on the cards.

    @ponaek
    • Where:405 Ocean View Drive, Bantry Bay

    2. Kirstenbosch National

    Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens homes everything a nature lover could hope to experience in one epic garden. Not many people can say they made the special decision to be together forever and always at a new 7th Wonder of The World, but you can. The Boomslang Walkway is one of the most sought after spots in the Gardens, hosting breathtaking views and an explorer’s thrill. To add an even more romantic spin, have a picnic with Fynkos and enjoy nature’s bounty as rolling lawns and flowers surround you. For someone who loves mother Earth almost as much as they love you, Kirstenbosch will certainly serve as that fairytale backdrop.

    @kirstenbosch_nbg
    • Where:Rhodes drive, Newlands

    3. The Paris of Cape Town – Franschoek

    @babylonstoren

    Franschhoek is renowned for its romantic energy, challenging the Parisians on their notions of love being in the air. A trip to Franschoek means divine food, lots of wine and even perfume-making – all leading up to the big ask. For a classic proposal, try Le Petite La Colombe, which is not only one of the top restaurants in the world but a Wineland’s favourite for proposals. If your partner is all about grandeur and would sell a kidney to live in France, then this spot fits the bill. If you’re looking for something a little different, Babylonstoren boasts spoils of romantic magic, from the greenhouse to a gorgeous canoe trip – arguably one of the most romantic spots.

    @laurandnicolas
    • Where: Le Petit Colombe | Leeu Estates, Dassenberg Rd, Franschhoek
    • Babylonstoren | Klapmuts – Simondium Rd, Simondium

    4.At the top of the Cape Wheel

    @docshotsdo.shane

    They make you feel like you’re on top of the world, so why not capitalise on it romantically? The Waterfront’s famous Cape Wheel offers picnic options where you can add some champagne and truly cheers to a beautiful future amongst the stars. If your relationship has always felt like a film plot, then entering the next chapter this way will certainly be Nicholas Sparks approved.

    • Where: Dock Rd, V&A Waterfront

    5.Norval Art Foundation

    @norvalfoundation

    Art is tangible and visible emotion. Norval Art Foundation is easily one of the most aesthetic places to propose, and for the art lover in your relationship, it’s a perfect painting. Who wouldn’t want to make such a special decision surrounded by art as your audience? Norval Art Foundation hosts so many curious spots to share the most romantic moments of your life, with new exhibitions constantly in the works, ready to build your audience.

    • Where:4 Steenberg Rd, Tokai

    6. Table Mountain, of course

    @tablemountainca

    This list wouldn’t be complete without vouching for a seat at the finest table in Cape Town. Whether you decide to take a hike along Table Mountain National Park’s trails, ride the cableway all the way to the top or go to the new TAP bar (an addition part of the Aerial Cable Way’s delicious ‘above the world’s experiences) you simply can’t go wrong with the gem of our city.

    @tablemountainca
    • Where: Table Mountain National Park

    Picture: @gracecharlottephoto

    In a low-key courthouse ceremony, Kourtney Kardashian and Travis Barker officially tied the knot.

    @kourtneykardash

    Now, a Kardashian having a downplayed wedding isn’t exactly on brand, but for Kourtney and Travis, AKA one of the most loved-up couples in Hollywood, the lack of grandeur seems fitting in the pair’s “we’re the different couple” narrative.

    @kourtneykardash

    If anything, Kourtney’s chill mini Dolce & Gabbana wedding dress and subtle veil and Travis’s sleek all-black suit are refreshing in a world where celebrity love (especially at the Kardashian level) is almost always contested with grandeur.

    @kourtneykardash

    The two sported pictures in a fabulous convertible, giving a 1960s genre film essence, as seen on Kourtney’s Instagram.

    @kourtneykardash

    However, rumours are pinning that there will be a bigger wedding down the line in Italy, according to a source as People reports. However, this is still just hearsay at this point, as Vogue notes, the couple have not confirmed big wedding plans.

    @kourtneykardash

    The courthouse wedding follows their practice wedding in Las Vagas post-Grammys in April according to Elle, but the marriage license wasn’t procured, making the ceremony unofficial. Kourtney had aptly captioned the pictures from this ceremony as “practice makes perfect” and her latest official wedding pictures with “Till death do us part.”

    Picture: @kourtneykardash

    When we think about that special day, amidst imaginings of how our partners will look at us adoringly, the dress that we’ll wear flawlessly after months of picking the perfect one, and the smiles on our guests’ faces as we say “I do”, we may also consider what could turn our fairytale into a nightmare.

    The rings get lost, the cake topples over, or worse – you forget to put on half your wedding gown.

    Well, for one digital creator, Becky Jefferies, discovering that she had forgotten half her dress behind turned out to be a reality. However, this story has a good ending and can be understood far more as a romantic comedy than a nightmare.

    Just before the bride and groom-to-be were about to say their vows, Becky became aware that things were a little lighter, as the detachable Point D’Esprit portion of her gown had not been put on!

    Kindly, Becky took the mic and asked the guests if she could complete her look. As anyone who has ever spent what felt like a lifetime choosing the perfect dress will know, it’s a lot of effort (both mental and physical) to finish your bridal look, and wearing only half of it is like submitting an art project without the all-important details!

    Despite the slight sense of “is this really happening” evident in Becky’s demeanour, the bride’s finishings quickly made it down the aisle just in time. “I bet you’ve never been to a wedding like this before,” Becky added humorously finally ready to say her vows in the completed dress she dreamed of (though, she looked stunning either way).

    WATCH: Bride forgets half her dress and realises right before the vows

     

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Becky Jefferies (@jetsetbecks)

    Picture: Screenshot from video

    Searching for one of the best wedding destinations in the world? You may not need to travel far and wide if you’re South African, as Cape Town as recently been crowned the second-best wedding destination in the world for 2022!

    The  Iconic jewellery brand Daniel Cristopher announced the ranking, news that comes after Cape Town was named third “Greatest City on Earth” by the UK’s Telegraph this week.

    The brand, operating since 1960, compiled a list of places and made the final judgement based on a number of factors, including weather conditions, the price of luxury hotels, and LGBTQ+ friendliness.

    Maybe all the love in the Cape air blew us into right into the second spot, but we’re still tickled pink to be right up there with some of the most spectacular destinations.

    Here are the Top 10 wedding destinations listed:

    1. Mexico City

    Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico. Picture: Pexels

    2. Cape Town

    Cape winelands. Picture: Pexels

    3. Cancun

    Cancún, México. Picture: Pexels

    4. Playa Del Carmen

    Playa Del Carmen, Mexico. Picture: www.mexicancaribbean.travel

    5. Sydney

    Sydney, Australia. Picture: Pexels

    6. Barcelona

    Barcelona, Spain. Picture: Pexels

    7. Lisbon

    Lisbon, Portugal. Picture: Pexels

    8. Rio de Janeiro

    Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Picture: Pexels

    9. Buenos Aires

    Buenos Aires, Argentina. Picture: Pexels

    10. Madrid

    Madrid, Spain. Picture: Pexels

    Picture: @gavincaseyweddings / Wedding Photographer / Cape Town

    The world loves a good comeback story, and there’s no bigger one than that of Britney Spears. The pop star is thriving after being let out of a brutal 13-year conservatorship and is currently in the midst of wedding planning.

    Spears and fiancé, Sam Asghari, have reportedly set a wedding date. Much to the chagrin of her fans, this won’t be made public.

    The award-winning singer got engaged to 28-year-old Asghari back in September after seven years of dating, recently revealing that they know when they’ll be saying “I do.”

    The soon-to-be husband went straight to his Instagram stories to share the news

    “Our lives have been a real-life fairytale. Also, The big day has been set! But nobody will know until the day after”

    What was revealed though was the shiny engagement ring that Spears wore on her ring finger. The diamond ring reportedly cost $70 000 and was a labour of love, according to Asghari who refused any celebrity sponsorship and decided to purchase it out of his own pocket.

    “I wanted to work and pay for it because, you know, a lot of celebrities get it for free for advertisement and stuff. I said, ‘I want it to mean something, and I want it to mean (something) from a working man.’ ”

    Sam Asghari Instagram 

    The 40-year-old singer, who’s pregnant with her third child, has eluded to the fact that she already has her wedding outfit.

    “Introducing Wendy (cat emoji)!!! And yes, this is the veil to my wedding dress (bride emoji) !!!(sic),” she captioned her adorable Instagram image.

    We couldn’t be more excited to see what she decides to rock on her big day!

    Feature Image:

    As sustainability seeps into the collective consciousness, more-and-more brides are researching how to achieve the quintessential ‘sustainable wedding,’ turning to vendors, services, and products that help them achieve this.

    Jewellery is one way the modern eco-conscious bride is doing some good. From ethically sourced rings to fair trade necklaces, here are a few incredible jewellery brands that are sustainable AND African.

    AuTerra Jewellery 

    AuTerra is a Cape Town-based brand led by designer and maker, Ashley. It’s a remarkable, innovative brand that collects discarded electronic products and recycles them into jewellery. The aesthetics of the handcrafted pieces transcend trends and the contemporary designs are simplistic and minimal. The brand believes in creating pieces that can be passed down from generation to generation in the hopes of persevering quality craftsmanship.

    KiiRA African Fine Jewellery

    Each gemstone is individually selected, ensuring that no two pieces are the same. Along with offering vibrant and minimalist designs, each piece is ethically sourced and handcrafted to perfection in South Africa. The brand also offers custom designs for brides looking for something extra special.

    Black Betty 

    Bespoke jewellery pieces are only a click away. From gemstone-infused tiger necklaces to gorgeous pearl earrings and engagement rings, Black Betty Designs is a great place for those looking for pieces that will ‘wow.’ Based in Cape Town, this sustainable jewellery brand ships throughout South Africa.

    Yala Jewellery 

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Yala Jewellery (@yalajewellery)

    This Kenyan-based jewellery brand provides pieces with a purpose, ensuring that each one of its designs has a positive impact.  What’s more, they offer beautiful modern designs that perfectly reflect the beauty of Africa. From Sagana brass nugget necklaces to hammered brass bracelets – there’s plenty to choose from.

    Dear Rae

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Dear Rae Jewellery (@dearrae)

    Dear Rae is the brainchild of fine arts graduate Karin Rae Matthees. The brand uses local materials and manufacturers to create unique pieces. Dear Rae design aesthetics can be described as classically minimal pieces that you can wear for the rest of your life. Karin’s brand adheres to the Kimberly process as well, and sources local manufacturers for production, ensuring each step of the manufacturing process is completely transparent.

    Feature Image: Kiira African Fine Jewellery

    Similar to Lady Whistledown’s society papers, Bridgerton is all anyone has time to talk about these days. The Netflix period drama has spawned a plethora of Regencycore-inspired home decor and fashion pieces and has gone on to take over the world of weddings too.

    Pinterest, the one-stop for all things wedding inspo, has been dishing the dirt on what brides-to-be have been searching on the platform, and it looks like Bridgerton-inspired bridal showers are all the rage right now.

    If your very own ‘Simon’ has gone down on one knee, you may be thinking about your bridal shower. With so many wonderful ways to incorporate the Bridgerton theme into your bridal shower, here are a few of our favourites:

    A Tea Party Worthy of The Queen

    Is there anything more regal than a sophisticated tea party? According to Pinterest, search terms have soared in relation to tea parties as a Bridgerton bridal shower idea. Grab your most sophisticated tea cups, three-tier platters, colourful macarons, florals, and a variety of tea flavours to sample. Make things extra special by creating a Bridgerton-inspired cup/mug for your bridal crew to take home with them, PostNet can be a good spot to do this.

    Bridgerton-themed bridal shower
    Picture: Pinterest

    Pearl Decor

    Another aesthetic that ties in nicely with the Recencycore aesthetic, and which has been making waves on Pinterest, is pearl decor. Keep things simple by including pearls in your bridal shower through pearl hair clips, or pearl garland decor.

    Bridgerton-themed bridal shower
    Picture: Pinterest

    Puff Sleeves? 

    Take things up a notch and really get into the theme by incorporating puff sleeves. You can keep things subtle by simply asking guests to wear puffed blouses or dresses – a great way to add a modern twist to your period-themed bridal shower.

    Picture: Superbalist

    ‘Bridgerton’ Inspired Hairstyles 

    No theme is complete without the quintessential hairstyle. Plenty of curls, puffy hair, and pearl hair clips seem to be theme when it comes to hairstyles associated with the regencycore aesthetic. If you’re feeling brave, go for something as daring as Queen Charlotte’s puffy hair-do or Daphne’s long flowing curls.

    An abundance of floral 

    One thing that stands out when you watch the Bridgerton series is the bold colours, especially when it comes to floral. Now, adding flowers to any event can be quite pricey, so set a budget and stick to it. Grab a few of your favourite vases and add colourful roses (or your favourite bouquet of flowers) across the table. If you’re looking to keep things affordable and sustainable, try dried bouquets. You’ll be able to reuse it at your wedding ceremony.

    Bridgerton themed bridal shower
    Picture: Pinterest

    Picture: Netflix

    In the past, premarital counselling was mainly carried out in religious institutions. These days, however, it has become more popular with non-religious couples too. Couples go to seek guidance and advice in the hopes of preventing divorce.

    According to the Mayo Clinic, “Premarital counseling is a type of therapy that helps couples prepare for marriage. Premarital counseling can help ensure that you and your partner have a strong, healthy relationship — giving you a better chance for a stable and satisfying marriage”. They add that the sessions will assist you in identifying weaknesses that could result in trouble for you as a couple further down the road.

    What to expect from premarital counselling: 

    The counselling is usually carried out by a licenced therapist. You’ll sit in the therapists office with your partner by your side discussing a variety of topics related to marriage. Some of these topics include: Money, quality time together, sex, roles in marriage, children, extended family, beliefs and values, and goals.

    Some therapists may have you fill out questionnaires separately. The questionnaire will have you answer questions about each other. Thereafter, the therapist will help you to work through the results together.

    Benefits of premarital counselling: 

    – Helps guide the conversation 

    Discussing heavy topics such as religion, sex, or kids, can result in both partners getting emotional and therefore losing focus of the topic at hand. A counsellor will help to guide the conversation. They also ensure you don’t get angry or misinterpret each other.

    – Teaches communication 

    An important thing to know is that different people respond in different ways to tones and speech patterns. You must be aware of how your partner needs to be spoken to, in order to feel understood, supported, and heard. Premarital counselling also teaches you how to communicate in a healthy and productive way.

    – Helps you prepare for your future together 

    You will be made aware of which expectations are realistic and which are not.  You will also get an idea of your timing and goals as a couple, for example when you both want to have kids, or when you want to move to a bigger house. Additionally, your anxieties and fears will be lessened as a result of how well counselling demystifies marriage. It also ensure’s that you avoid many potential conflicts in the future.

    – You’ll learn more about yourself and your partner 

    Often, counselling is an eye opening experience. You discover things about yourself you’ve never known because the mental health professional is guiding you towards these realisations. When you and your partner have these experiences together, it also becomes a sort of bonding experience.

    Tips for successful premarital counselling: 

    – Know that it will be tough 

    You’ll be dealing with very touchy subjects. Be sure to be as open as you can and don’t be scared to be vulnerable. Most importantly, don’t give up because it’s uncomfortable! Remember that in the end, this will only grow and strengthen your relationship.

    – Don’t say what you think they want to hear 

    Avoid saying things that downplay your emotions or opinions, don’t answer in a way that you think is correct (there are no right or wrong answers). You should also avoid saying things just because it makes you seem more compatible with your significant other. If you do that, there will be no real progress.

    – It’s not a competition 

    There is no winner or loser, and there should be no “I told you so” at the end of the session.

    Be open to listening and accepting that you are both capable of being better.

    Image: Unsplash