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    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

    There are many ingredients that make a wedding day special – and as the type-A personality planner knows, each one has been thought, jotted down and researched to the nine. The metaphorical cherry of a gorgeous day, of course, goes on top of the cake. The wedding cake might seem to the onlooker as a minor detail, but it is the creme-de-la-creme part of the loving celebration that says ‘I can have my cake and eat it too.’

    In 2022, the world of wedding cakes considers itself as part of the more imaginative eras of love.

    The pandemic played its tune of course, as lockdown encouraged many to tap into more creative styles and baking wonders.

    Here are 9 wedding cake trends we can’t wait to take a bite of in 2022:

    Pearl Wedding Cakes 

    Pinterest

    Pearls can truly dress up any aesthetic – from veils to icing finishes. Glistening white sugar pearls are set to grace many weddings in 2022, and the best part is that they go with any icing colour. Whether they are dotted along the various tiers, crisscrossed or used to dote the centre of a pressed or frosted flower bud, sugar pearls are a luxurious finish to play up or epitomise your wedding.

    Bas Relief Detailing 

    Pinterest

    Upon hearing the term ‘Bas Relief’ you’d be forgiven for wondering if your cake will have anything to do with the art of sculpting – as this artistic technique is where the term is borrowed from. As it is in the world of sculpting, bas relief refers to a pattern raised or projected from its surface. The technique makes for fabulous intricate designs and is the perfect ode to Roman art in centuries gone by. If you have a flair for ancient art styles and want to bring that same artistic energy to your wedding, this is the perfect cake trend to get excited about. Pro tip: The technique is most effective when the detailing and the icing are the same colour.

    Geode Wedding Cakes 

    Pinterest

    If you are someone who carries crystals around at any given time, you’ll definitely be on the right path with Geode Wedding Cakes. Create the illusion of rock formations with hidden gems inside – namely candy crystals that you can eat. Geode wedding cakes are one of the more unique cake trends to try, but the effort of such intricacy on a special day is always worth it. Not sure which gemstone to mimic? Rose Quartz are the gemstones most linked to love, and the baby pink hues will certainly be a show stopper.

    Small Wedding Cakes 

    Pinterest

    Sometimes less is far more lovely than more. The small wedding cake trend hopped onto the scene last year when many people opted not to postpone grand ceremonies, but to turn them into micro-weddings. It’s all the glamour, just on a smaller scale. Singl or double-tier wedding cakes are an ideal choice for the happy couple looking to actually finish their wedding cake – making it a top-tier choice for smaller weddings. The best part about small wedding cakes is that more effort can go into the design.

    Pressed Florals 

    Pinterest

    Fairytale wedding dreamers or those wishing for a garden wedding will love the pressed florals trend that has continued to remain popular throughout time. Simple and gorgeous, pressed flower wedding cakes can give either bohemian or luxurious energy, depending on the flower choices. For a bohemian feel, try pressed daisies, while if you want something a little more suave, try lavender assortments.

    Translucent Isomalt Designs 

    Pinterest

    They say that transparency is fundamental for any relationship, and so it comes as little surprise that translucent isomalt designs are on the rise in the era focused on communication in relationships. Isomalt is a medium that is often used to create clear art for cakes in a divine, sugary way. The cakes are art themselves, and the pale colour choices make for gorgeous colour blocking if you really want your wedding to be an extension of your bright personalities.

    Individual mini-cakes 

    Pinterest

    What about a wedding where everyone can have their own individual wedding cake? The mini-cakes trend is one of the most creative ways to limit contact and truly share the love. Whether you opt for individual cakes per table or for a cupcake assortment, this is the perfect way to ‘let them eat cake.’

    Impressionist Detailing 

    Cynzcakes

    The impressionst artistic era is easily one of the most bespoke in art. And now, the era of monet can feature on your special day. What does art taste like? Well, you’ll surely find out. The abstract-esque nature of these wedding cake creations is all-too delicious for a non-traditional wedding where creativity reigns.

    Drip Wedding Cakes

    Pinterest

    Drip cakes have been on the rise in popularity and endorsed by the likes of Martha Steward. Dressed in fun, its the perfect design that can be coupled with most others – from pearls to flower arrangements. These are some of the sweetest wedding cake designs hot in the wedding world right now and are well suited for the fun-loving couple who believe that cake should look like a dessert and not a sculpture.

    Feature Image: Pinterest

     

    We love a good Pinterest search, especially when it comes to finding much-needed wedding inspiration. 

    Did we mention how stressful wedding planning can be? 

    Thankfully, this online moldboard has been with us every step of the way and has been a favourite amongst brides-to-be as they pin away and plan their weddings. 

    While we would like to think that we’re still in the age where millennials are getting hitched, the social media platform has swooped in to burst our bubble, revealing that Gen Zers are pinning away as they plan their impending nuptials. 

    A burst of fresh air is what this generation is looking for as they ditch stuffy traditions and do it their own way. 

    “This year, Pinners are planning for the big wedding celebrations after postponements. We are seeing larger weddings come back and a movement away from minimalism,” says Swasti Sarna, Senior Insights Manager at Pinterest. 

    “We are also seeing rising searches for Pinners wanting to connect back to their roots by celebrating their unique cultural traditions, with 45% of the top wedding trends related to different cultures.”

    So, just what are bridal couples searching for? From Bridgerton themes to sustainable weddings, here are a few of the wedding trends for 2022, according to Pinterest.

    The Dark Side of Life 

    Traditionally, brides have always worn white, but the latest trends from Pinterest reveal that brides-to-be are stepping away from this and opting for something completely different. “Black dress wedding party,” “black boho wedding dress” ( 4X), and “black wedding cakes” (+94%) are a few search terms that have been trending as “dark wedding ideas” becomes a popular search term on the platform.

    Picture: Pinterest

    Pearls are a girl’s best friend 

    Move over diamonds because there’s a new sheriff in town. From engagement rings to “pearl cake,” the rise of the pearl is something that Pinterest predicted back in December 2021. They were certainly right on the mark as bridal couples opt for the non-traditional. Search terms such as  “pearl wedding dress,” “Pearl wedding” and “Pearlcore” are just a few trends that are here to stay in 2022.

    Picture: Pinterest

    Back into nature

    More specifically, the forest. Brides and grooms are really looking to make their wedding day a fairy tale event with search terms like “woodland fairy wedding,” “enchanted forest wedding dress,” and “forest wedding ceremony” being big trends. This is no surprise as forest wedding venues can offer couples a magical setting. Throw in earthy tones for suits and bohemian style dresses and flowy veils, and you have a wedding ceremony fit for a Disney princess and prince.

    Picture: Pinterest

    The Bridgerton Effect

    The Netflix has been making waves in more ways than one. The opulent Regency Era has grabbed almost every bridal couple’s attention with search terms such as “‘Bridgerton’ bridal shower ideas,” and “‘Bridgerton’ wedding” being the top terms that bride- and grooms-to-be are searching for.

    Picture: Pinterest

    Sustainable Weddings 

    It’s cool to care for the environment and eco-conscious couples are taking a stand with their sustainable wedding. Paying special attention to how we affect the environment has slowly become a top priority for many people, so it comes as no surprise that sustainable weddings are on the rise. From food to decorations, “eco-friendly wedding ideas,” “thrifted wedding decor” and “reuse wedding dress ideas” are some of the top search terms.

    Picture: Pinterest

    Feature image: Pinterest

    The Met Gala for 2022 came, saw and conquered, leaving us with looks that took our collective breaths away (and not always in a good way).

    However, out of it all, some gowns part of the Gilded Glamour theme were so gorgeous, we’re ready to take them off the red carpet and onto another important path – the aisle!

    Here are some Met Gala looks that would make perfect wedding gowns: 

    Eiza González in Michael Kors.

    Cibelle Levi

    Miranda Kerr in Oscar de la Renta.

    Mike Coppola/Getty Images

    Kylie Jenner in a design by the late Virgil Abloh, Off-White.

    Instagram @kyliejenner

    Alexa Chung in Christian Siriano.

     HFM Magazine

    Tessa Thompson in Carolina Herrera.

    Hailey Bieber in Yves Saint Laurent.

    Getty Images

    Ramla Ali in Giambattista Valli Haute Couture.

    Red Carpet Fashion Awards

    Camilla Cabeo in Atelier Prabal Gurung.

    Mike Coppola/Getty Images

    Picture: Cibelle Levi

    When it comes to finding “the one” and having that movie-magic moment where your bridesmaids break into a sob after just one look of you in the perfect dress, it all comes down to finding the right shape for your body. We’ve turned to the experts for this one, putting our ear close to the ground and listening to the suggestions that dress designers may have for some potential gown stumbling blocks.

    You’re fuller in the hip/thigh area: 

    Choose something you are comfortable in. If you are confident and love your curves, then there are ways to make a fitted dress accentuate all the right areas. If you are more conservative or feel self-conscious, then go with something that cinches in at the waist and naturally flows out from there.

    You have larger than average breasts: 

    Get a fully structured bustier if your bust needs that lift and support, or a daring plunge for those girls stay in place.

    You are petite

    If you are going for lace, something with smaller patterns would be best. If not, choose something streamlined and gorgeous! Even the princess look can work, if done right.

    You don’t look good in classic white or ivory

    Nude, toffee and sand shades are hot this season! Oyster is also a wonderful shade that suits a variety of skin tones.

    You’re not too keen on exposing a lot of skin 

    A beautiful, hand-engineered, appliquéd illusion sleeve is the best of both worlds!

    Feature Image: @aglowceleste

    If you’re planning to propose to your partner in Cape Town, you are in luck thanks to the beautiful scenery that Cape Town is blessed with. If you want to propose out in nature there is no shortage of beautiful locations for you to do so. Whether you take a drive out to the winelands or stay within the city, you will be spoiled for choice.

    Have a look at these 5 proposal spots that make use of nature to set the scene:

    Cape Point

    Take a drive out to Cape Point National Park to see where the Atlantic and Indian oceans meet, and become one with your partner.

     

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    Lion’s Head

    Hike up lion’s head and take in the magical views from the top. You will certainly feel like you are on cloud 9 up there.

     

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    Kirstenbosch Gardens

    Plan a picnic in these lush gardens and take a walk on the Boomslang tree canopy walkway for panoramic views of the gardens and mountains.

     

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    Boulders Beach

    While there are plenty of beautiful beaches in Cape Town, Boulders beach, with its colony of African penguins, offers something a little extra to make the proposal that much more special.

     

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    Vineyards

    The abundance of beautiful vineyards and accompanying restaurants makes it easy to choose just one to propose. Enjoy the delicious local wines and views of the vineyards.

     

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    Feature image: Unsplash

    Also read: Things to do in Cape Town

    I recently found myself planning my cousin’s bachelorette party. Let me tell you something, there’s a lot of pressure to make sure that the bride and her guests are happy. It’s definitely not as stressful as planning a whole wedding, but I found myself obsessively scrolling through social media in search of the biggest and best bachelorette ideas out there.

    Anything that would live up to all those Hollywood bachelorette tropes. Stripper – check. Dildos – check. You know the list. This got me thinking, are there any bachelorette party ideas that will have tongues wagging while stepping outside of the box?

    There sure are! If you’re looking to throw an unforgettable bachelorette that doesn’t include a stripper bumping and grinding on the bride-to-be, here are a few ideas that may get the inspiration flowing.

    Bubbles and Brushes

    If you’re searching for something that screams: This is a sophisticated bachelorette, then look no further than a day filled with painting and bubbles. There are a ton of spots across South Africa, including Paint and Sip which offers online classes too. This is a great way to unleash everyone’s inner creative!

    Picture: Pinterest

    Sail off into the sunset

    You don’t have to put on your clubbing shoes to have a good time, the open sea is all you need! If you live close to the ocean, you’ll find countless sunset cruises that are perfect for an early evening spent sipping on champagne and enjoying good food and music. Take it a step further and rent a yacht for a few hours. This will allow you to soak up the sun and get down in your swimsuits like nobody’s watching!

    Picture: Pinterest

    A pampering weekend

    It’s always about getting tipsy and downing as many shots as you can. If you’re looking to avoid a booze-filled weekend, opt for something a little more relaxing like a wellness weekend away to your favourite spot. There are some incredible wellness hotels around the country, including the Mount Grace Hotel and Spa in Magaliesberg which offers gorgeous views and wonderful spa treatments.

    Picture: Pinterest

    Tea Party anyone?

    Fancy dresses and fine china, if the bride-to-be can’t seem to get enough of either of these things, then opt for a sophisticated tea party. Grab the bride squad, adorable teacups, and delectable scones, and get the party started! There are plenty of hotels that offer a tea party experience, including the Mount Nelson in Cape Town. However, you can opt to re-create something of your own.

    Picture: Pinterest

    Splurge on a luxurious Airbnb

    Head to the mountains or the sea, but just make sure that you make it fancy! There’s nothing like enjoying the company of friends while sipping champagne and enjoying the views from your mansion. The best part is that you’ll be able to split the costs, ensuring that the bride has a relaxing and cost-free time! Don’t forget the games!

    Picture: Pinterest

    Feature Image: Pinterest

    There are some brides that simply know what they want their wedding dress to look like. However, there are a few brides-to-be who need a little nudge towards inspiration, and there’s nothing more inspiring than the latest wedding gowns from Bridal Fashion Week. 

    The crème de la crème of the fashion world came together to grace us with the most fabulous and on-trend designs – the perfect way to find inspiration for your upcoming nuptials. 

    Here are a few of our favourite designs from Bridal Fashion Week’s Spring Collection:

    Anne Barge 

    Bridal Fashion Week

    Bridal Fashion Week

    Mira Zwillinger

    Bridal Fashion Week

    Zuhair Murad

    Bridal Fashion Week

    Bridal Fashion Week

    Ines Di Santo 

    Bridal Fashion Week

    Reem Acra 

    Bridal Fashion Week

    Galia Lahav

    Bridal Fashion Week

    Bridal Fashion Week

    Savannah Miller

    Bridal Fashion Week

    Galvan Bridal 

    Halfpenny London

    Bridal Fashion Week

    Bridal Fashion Week

    Elie Saab

    Bridal Fashion Week

    Bridal Fashion Week

    Monique Lhuillier

    Feature Image: Monique Lhuillier

     

    One thing that we love the most about honeymooning in Africa is that there are so many incredible options to choose from. However, there’s nothing more idyllic than soaking up the glorious African sun, drinking cocktails poolside, and enjoying the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. 

    As travel restrictions continue to ease, more and more newlyweds are looking across the waters to book their honeymoons. The Seychelles has continuously made the list of the top places to visit on your honeymoon, and with good reason. 

     It’s a breath-taking paradise just off the east coast of Africa and home to incredible culture, activities and sights. With its Insta-perfect beaches, luxurious accommodations and jam-packed itinerary, it’s not difficult to see why South African bridal couples are obsessed.

    There’s no visa requirement

    For South African citizens, travelling to the gorgeous islands of The Seychelles is a breeze. No visa is required for a maximum stay of 3 months, making it the perfect spot for a honeymoon – with a valid passport of course.

    It’s nearby

    Just off the coast of East Africa, roughly 1 600 km from Kenya, there won’t be any long and unbearable flights involved when travelling to The Seychelles, making it a quick and easy option. It will take you about 5 hours to get there, and flights leave regularly from Johannesburg or Durban through Air Seychelles.

    They have a similar climate

    Warm tropical weather covers the island year round, with temperatures rarely hitting extremely hot or cold levels. Being used to our own Mediterranean climate, South Africans migrate towards the warm and sunny island tropics for fun days in the sun and exciting water activities.

    It’s a gorgeous island escape 

    Perhaps one of the most obvious attractions of The Seychelles is its absolute luxury. White sandy beaches and crystal blue waters create a breath-taking backdrop, while the weather conditions are perfectly suited for all sorts of activities. Besides the beaches, The Seychelles also has its own gorgeous mountainous terrains and tropical forests filled with beautiful wildlife to explore.

    There’s plenty to do

    With perfect day weather and a range of landscapes, there’s no shortage of creativity when it comes to activites and adventure. You can experience the incredible roaming creatures on wildlife tours, go bird-watching, snorkelling, or take part in adventurous endeavours with island hopping, skiing and kayaking.

    Feature Image: johan_drone_adventures

    While a couple were in the midst of a marriage proposal, a few seconds after the bride-to-be said ‘yes’, a lion stepped onto the scene to join in on the magic, and let out a roar (possibly of approval if this were a Disney movie) moments after the two became fianceés.

    The moment took place in the Kgalagadi at the Cape Town couple’s campsite in Botswana.

    According to John Peiser, he had heard a roar in the distance and decided it was the perfect moment to propose to his fiance, Sandy.

    “Mr. Lion must have told a friend, as a lioness came into our camp the very next evening, more or less the same time!” John recalled speaking to Latest Sightings. 

    Footage was captured of the special moment, and it stands as just one of many magical moments in the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park.

    WATCH: Lions during the proposal aftermath

    Feature Image: Screenshot