In light of the COVID-19 pandemic affecting people throughout the world, the South African government is taking a number of steps to flatten the curve.
Gatherings of more than 100 people have been prohibited in the country. To make sure this rule is enforced, those in the Gauteng province wanting to host large events such as weddings and funerals must now apply for a permit to do so.
Gauteng Premier David Makhura made the announcement during a media briefing in Gauteng on Wednesday, March 18. According to Makhura, Gauteng is a high-risk province as it is densely populated and has the most developed transport system used by many.
“We want to call on business to cooperate, including township establishments. Everyone who is applying for a funeral or for a wedding needs to do so at the nearest police station in your area,” said the Premier. ” The police stations are helping us to monitor to ensure that the size of those events complies with the law. So, there’s a specific provincial police officer who is designated on behalf of the provincial commissioner coordinating all those applications so that there is full compliance.”
As of now, South Africa has 116 confirmed cases of COVID-19 and no reported deaths thus far.
Feature image: Unsplash
Shapewear dates back thousands of years. The ancient Minoans wore these garments to push up their bare chests, while the ancient Mesopotamians wore them to promote fertility. Through…
When it comes to wedding dresses there are a lot of decisions to make. What style, which neckline, what fabric, and the list goes on. These decisions become even more complicated if you don’t understand the jargon being thrown at you by store consultants.
To help you through this process of decision making, here is a list of necklines, so you don’t misunderstand what’s being said and end up with something you don’t want.
Here is a helpful chart to begin with:
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Now let’s move on to some more detailed descriptions:
– Sweetheart
Soft and feminine, the sweetheart neckline resembles the upper half of a heart. It follows the natural curves of the bust, and slightly dips in the centre.
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– Bateau or Sabrina
Recognised by its similarity to the shape of a boat, the bateau neckline has a slightly softened straight cut that extends from one collarbone to the other. It has a wide opening at the neck.
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– Halter Neck
The halter neck can be high or low cut, depending on what the bride prefers. Straps go around the neck and close at the back behind the neck, usually with buttons or fabric.
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– Queen Anne
The Queen Anne neckline is high at the back and lower in the front. Looking at the dress directly from the front you’ll see a partially open neck with cleavage and collar bones covered and it may appear as though the dress has a collar at the back.
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– V-neck
A versatile style, the v-neck is exactly as it’s name suggests. The neckline forms a v shape and culminates in a pointed dip in the centre of the chest.
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– Jewel
This neckline is similar to that of a normal t-shirt. It is a very high-cut scoop neckline, that covers up the upper torso, shoulders and collar bones. Often, if a dress has a jewel neckline, it will be made sleeveless.
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– Cowl
With draped fabric that hangs loosely around the neck, the cowl neckline instantly draws attention to the décolletage area.
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– Square
As the its name suggests, the neckline is square. The neckline and straps meet at right angles, and it’s depth can vary as the bride pleases.
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– Illusion
This one seems to be universally loved. Featuring lace or sheer fabric that covers the bodice and continues upwards to form a higher, second neckline, the illusion neckline is a classic. The sheer layer creates a stunning contrast with the other fabric and looks ethereal in it’s finish.
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– Single shoulder
Also known as the asymmetrical neckline, this one drapes towards one shoulder and leaves the other exposed.
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– Off-the-shoulder
Characterised by absence of sleeves around the shoulder, this style is quite popular. The neckline begins lower than the shoulder, and extends in a line, across the chest.
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– Scoop
Very simply the scoop neckline is any neckline that forms the shape of a U or is round.
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Image: Unsplash
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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
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…
Wedding gifts are the perfect way to help your newlyweds start their lives together on a strong note. If you’re stuck in a gifting rut, rest assured your newlyweds will love these easy gifts.
Quality pots and pans:
Your newlyweds will most likely be doing a lot of cooking together, so its important they have quality pots and pans that will last for a long time. If you’re willing to splash out, this is one gift they will absolutely love.
We love: Artisanal Ceramic Non Stick Pan 24cm from Woolworths – R450
Crockery and glassware:
People gotta eat and drink, right? They might as well do it in style. Depending on the couple’s taste, you can go with wine glasses, gin glasses, whiskey glasses or just good old tumblers for the teetotallers.
We love: Crystal Red Wine Glasses 4 Piece from Woolworths – R260
Home decor:
Now this is a tricky one. Only opt for purchasing furniture or home decor for a couple if you are familiar with their taste and style. You wouldn’t want to gift them with a colourful nick-nack only to discover they prefer the minimalist aesthetic.
We love: Marble bookends from @Home – R599
Linens:
Half the battle of a cosy sleep is quality linens. Give your newlyweds the gift of a good rest with a set of comfy linens that will make them never want to leave the bed.
We love: Egyptian cotton oxford satin duvet cover set from Superbalist – R1199
Kitchen appliances
Add some flair to their mornings with fun kitchen appliances. Whether they love coffee or sweet treats, there are a multitude of applicances that will fulfill their desires.
We love: KitchenCraft Stove Top Waffle Maker from Yuppiechef – R769
Money:
Weddings are expensive, and your newlyweds will most likely struggle with empty pockets after their big day. Help them out by gifting them with some money instead of a physical present. Not sure how much to give? We’ve got you covered.
Image: Pexels