Your engagement ring is probably one of your most prized possessions. For many, their engagement ring is also their most valuable piece of jewellery. Not to mention the sentimental value!
The ring is meant to last a lifetime. If you don’t take all the the necessary steps to care for it, it might get spoiled. However, jewellery care is not exactly common knowledge. So, you may be worried about your cluelessness on the subject and the condition of your ring… No need!
Here are some tips and tricks to help you ensure that your engagement ring stays in the best condition possible:
– Have it insured ASAP
This should be one of the first things you do when you come into possession of an engagement ring. It will allow you to wear your ring without being constantly worried about it. Most insurance will cover loss, theft and damage.
– Keep the resizing to a minimum
Having your engagement ring readjusted too many times can cause the metal to become fragile. This will make the ring more susceptible to damage. If your hands swell because of things like pregnancy, it’s best to store the ring away until it fits again, rather than having it resized.
– Buy some ring dishes
A simple but useful tip! Keeping a few ring dishes around the house will ensure that you don’t carelessly misplace it. Whenever you remove it from your finger, pop it in the ring dish and you’ll know exactly where to find it.
– Clean your ring
The option to take your ring to the jeweller for a cleaning is available at most stores. However, cleaning your ring at home is quite easy. Fill a small bowl with lukewarm water and add a drop of dish detergent (ensure that it is not chlorine based). Leave the ring in the water for about 10 minutes, then remove it and scrub it with a soft bristled brush. Rinse the ring and dry it with a lint-free cloth or a hair-dryer.
– Remove your ring when necessary
Swimming, exercising and manual labour are all activities that you should remove your ring for. If you’re going to the beach, for example, it may be better to leave the ring at home.
– Refresh the metal setting
Professions suggest that having the metal setting refreshed every few years is a good habit to get into. Your ring comes into contact with oxygen and moisture every day and this could damage the metal. Keep in mind that different metals have different lengths of durability. Ask your jeweller how often yours should be refreshed.
– Beware of chemicals
Chemicals and abrasive solutions can erode the metal setting. If you’re coming into contact with these, its best to ensure that your ring is far away.
Image: Unsplash
The Guiness World Records oldest living married couple have just celebrated their 80th wedding anniversary, proving that true love never dies. At 105 and 106 years old respectively,…
It’s been a pretty memorable 10 years. We’ve seen celebs make up, break up, and many tie the knot. However, there are certain weddings that will stand the test of time. Surprising, momentous or just over-the-top, these are the most iconic celebrity weddings we’ve seen this past decade.
Megan Markle and Prince Harry
We’ve seen many royal weddings this decade, but this one was our personal favourite. When Prince Harry wed Suits star Megan Markle, the entire world tuned in to view their May 19, 2018 nuptials at St.Georges Chapel. The wedding was attended by mega-stars like George Clooney and Amal Alamuddin, Priyanka Chopra, Serena Williams and David and Victoria Beckham.
Markle wore a stunningly simple boatneck sheath gown designed by Clare Waight Keller for Givenchy, as well as the Order of Splendor tiara once worn by Queen Mary. Her 16-foot veil featured intricate embroidery with signature flowers from all the British Commonwealth countries.
Being a ‘commoner’, American and a woman of colour, Megan Markle marrying into royalty was a huge moment in pop culture. This couple’s relationship has been marred by public scrutiny ever since they started dating, making this fairytale wedding even more special.
Nick Jonas and Priyanka Chopra
Nick and Priyanka’s December 1, 2018 nuptials were done in spectacular fashion with a three-day wedding blending Hindu and Christian traditions. They said ‘I do’ at the Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur, Rajasthan. Kevin and Joe Jonas, Sophie Turner, 30 Rock actor Jack McBrayer and Elizabeth Chambers Hammer were just a few of the notable names at this lavish wedding.
Every member of the bridal party stunned in Ralph Lauren, with Chopra stealing the spotlight in an embellished, sheer number and incredibly lengthy veil.
Prince William an Kate Middleton
Prince William and Kate Middleton wed in April 2011 at Westminster Abbey in a much publicised affair that had us all glued to our TV screens. The British public lined the streets en masse to catch a glimpse of the bride as she made her way to the chapel in a Rolls Royce Phantom VI.
Middleton wore a beautiful lace gown designed by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen that has since seen many brides emulate.
Besides the royal family, other notable guests included David and Victoria Beckham, Elton John and Guy Ritchie.
Serena Williams and Alexis Ohanian
One of the world’s greatest athletes, Serena Williams, married Reddit founder Alexis Ohanian at the Contemporary Arts Centre in New Orleans in a French ball–themed, Beauty and the Beast–styled wedding. This wedding had some serious star power with Beyonce, Kim Kardashian and Anna Wintour all in attendance.
For their November 16, 2017 nuptials Williams wore a stunning ballgown by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen and Alexis donned an Armani suit.
George Clooney and Amal Alamuddin
Hollywood’s most iconic bachelor shocked the world when he announced his engagement to lawyer Amal Alamuddin. The pair said ‘I do’ in a glamorous wedding in Venice, Italy on September 27, 2014. The city seemed to come to a standstill, with locals linings canals in the hopes of witnessing the couple.
There were many famous faces at the fancy festivities, including Emily Blunt and John Krasinski, Matt Damon and wife Luciana, Cindy Crawford and Rande Gerber and Anna Wintour.
Clooney looked debonair in a Giorgio Armani suit and Amal was picture perfect in a custom Oscar De La Renta gown crafted from French lace with hand-embroidered pearls, diamanté details and a sweeping train.
Kim Kardashian and Kanye West
The queen of social media married rapper Kanye West in a lavish Italian ceremony back in May 2014. Their wedding weekend began in Paris where Kim had her bachelorette party, a pre-wedding lunch at Valentino’s home and an epic rehearsal dinner at the Versailles’s Hall of Mirrors. Wedding guests were then flown to Florence, Italy for the big day.
Kim stunned in a custom Givenchy haute couture gown designed by Ricardo Tisci. Italian singer Andrea Bocelli serenaded the bride as she walked down the aisle.
Other than the entire Kardashian/Jenner clan, famous guests included Serena Williams, Jaden Smith, John Legend and Chrissy Tiegen.
Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt
Even though they are no longer together, Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie were once the most famous (and attractive) celebrity couple so we cannot not include them in this list. Their August 2014 wedding was held at Château Miraval, the family’s estate in the French village of Correns.
It was an incredibly private affair, with only 20 people attending. Their kids were all big parts of the wedding. Maddox gave his mom away while Pax and Knox were ring bearers.
Jolie wore an elegant custom-made, pure white silk-satin Versace gown adorned with drawings by each of the couple’s six children.
Sofia Vergara and Joe Manganiello
The Modern Family actress said ‘I do’ to the Magic Mike star in a lavish $3 million wedding at The Breakers resort in Palm Beach, Florida back in November 2015. With 400 guests, this wedding party was pretty big. Channing Tatum, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Reese Witherspoon and Vergara’s Modern Family co-stars were just some of the famous faces in attendance.
Vergara wore a stunning custom Zuhair Murad gown that featured a detachable skirt. Pitbull even gave a surprise performance at their wedding.
Solange Knowles and Alan Ferguson
From arriving on vintage bicycles to her stunning cream jumpsuit, Solange’s wedding to longterm boyfriend Alan Ferguson was memorable for many reasons. The musician wed the video director in New Orleans Louisiana at the Marigny Opera House back in November 2017.
She wore an incredible Stephane Rolland jumpsuit featuring a plunging neckline and cape for the ceremony, and changed into a white caped gown by Kenzo designer Humberto Leon for the reception. Forgoing tradition, their 200 guests all wore white on the big day.
Of course, big sis Beyonce and mother Tina Knowles were on hand to ring in the festivities, along with Jay-Z and Questlove.
Unfortunately, the couple have since split.
Feature image: Instagram / Kim Kardashian
Bridal showers can be just one more thing on your already long to-do list. Oftentimes it can be a challenge to find something to do that is suitable…
If you’re getting married soon, you’ll need all the help you can get. The Oakfield Farm’s Bridal Expo in Krugersdorp is your one stop shop for all things wedding. Wedding ETC is giving five lucky readers the chance to attend the expo with a partner!
You won’t want to miss this expo, held on January 25-26, 2020 at the Oakfield Farm. There will be exciting prizes to win (including a honeymoon in Mauritius!), a free fashion show and loads of advice, ideas and inspiration from 150 top wedding specialists to make your dream wedding a reality. There will also be the big bridal pop up, the biggest wedding dress sale in South Africa!
Prize details: Five lucky readers will win one of five double sets to Oakfield Farm Bridal Expo.
How to enter: Fill in the form below.
Competition ends: January 10, 2020 at 8am.
Competition Ts & Cs:
– The winners will be announced at 10am on January 10, 2020 on Facebook.
– The winners will be announced at 10am on January 10, 2020 on Facebook.
– Winners will be contacted via details entered on the form
– Prizes are not refundable and cannot be exchanged for money
– Prizes are not refundable and cannot be exchanged for money
– Prize does not include transport
Feature image: Pexels
While some traditions fade and others are altered, the wedding kiss has remained. A kiss after the vows is a wedding tradition that, it seems, will never disappear.…
Planning a honeymoon is more difficult than you think. One of the most challenging parts comes right at the beginning of planning: Choosing the best destination. If you’re still picking a location, why not consider Mozambique?
With its warm, tropical weather, endless stretches of empty beaches and rich culture, you’d think you’re in paradise. Boasting delicious seafood meals, and exciting excursions you can enjoy, Mozambique should be on the top of your destination list.
Here are some of the best things for couples to do in Mozambique:
– Take A Dhow Cruise
Dhow cruises are easily accessible in Mozambique and often come with snacks and drinks too. From the dhow you can enjoy the stunning views of the land and watch the sun set as you sail along. What could be more romantic than that?
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– See the Maputo Central Train Station
This train station has been acknowledged by publications globally as one of the most beautiful stations in the world. It is wildly popular because of this. It is a great place for some photos and a glimpse into the past.
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– Island hop in The Quirimbas Archipelago
The Quirimbas Archipelago is a group of islands including Vamizi, Ibo, and Quisiva. There are 32 islands to choose from. On the islands you can snorkel or scuba dive and see all that nature has to offer. The islands are popular because of their marine life (including endangered sea cows and dolphins) and their coral reefs.
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– Spend a Night Under the Stars
There are some activities that are offered by most hotels and resorts in Mozambique. This is one of them. The hotel will provide you with an experience of spending the night sleeping under the stars. A bed will be set up on a secluded part of the beach and you’ll be left to enjoy the sounds of the ocean.
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– Go on a Safari at the Niassa Reserve
Mozambique is heavily focused on responsible and sustainable tourism. Wildlife are treated well and the nature reserves are proof of this. Because of this, you can enjoy a safari at the Niassa Reserve without guilt!
The reserve is the largest one in the country. At the reserve you can go on a camping expedition or a boat safari. You may catch a glimpse of some wildlife including lions, hyenas and leopards.
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– Have a Romantic dinner on a Secluded Beach
This activity is offered by most hotels and resorts that are found in Mozambique. They often allow you to choose the site where your dinner table is set up too.
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– Visit the Fort São Sebastião
This fort is a heritage site in Mozambique and is one of the top attractions there. Built in a Portuguese style, the fort was put up to ensure that the trade route is secure and safe. You can explore inside the fort and also make your way to the top for a spectacular view of the ocean.
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– Take a Ferry to the Inhaca Islands
Along with the general beach activities, the added ferry trip makes this beach experience special. There are also a variety of restaurants on the island.
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– Hit the Beach
Mozambique is known for its endless stretches of beaches. You can’t let the trip go by without making a stop at one or two of them. Take a dip in the ocean and a romantic stroll. A classic honeymoon activity.
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– Visit the Tunduru Botanical Gardens
This is the ideal place to capture a good honeymoon photograph. Additionally, the environment makes for a wonderful day of peace and relaxation. It’ll be good for some proper alone time with your partner!
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Image: Unsplash