• Photos from a US-based couple’s wedding has made the rounds on South African social media, and inspired many.

    Beautiful couple Stef and Renee wed at the La Mare Wine Estate in New Jersey in August 2019. Their photographer, Kaleido Shoots, captured many incredible images throughout the day that truly represent their love.

    These images have grown in popularity and were recently shared to South African Facebook group #imstaying. Sipho Khanyile shared some of the images to the popular group and was met with many positive reactions. Many took to the comments section to show their support for the loving couple.

    Here are some of the stunning photos from their wedding day:

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    Image: Facebook / Kaleido Shoots

    Planning does not always make perfect. Sometimes things go awry despite your best efforts. In this case, make sure to expect the unexpected. Here are the things that can go wrong on your wedding day and how to prepare for them.

    Someone could get sick:

    You can’t schedule sickness, unfortunately. Whether it’s you, your partner or a member of your bridal party, no one is safe from the perils of health problems. While not completely preventable, there are things you can do to minimise problems. Stick to a healthy diet of fruits and vegetables in the lead up to your wedding to maintain your vitamin intake, drink more water, and consider taking probiotics. Make sure you take medication at the first hint of sickness.

    The weather could be terrible:

    Weather is unpredictable, especially when you plan events in advance. Make sure to check weather forecasts the week of, and prepare for all weather types by coming up with a contingency plan. Have umbrellas on hand for rain, and hand-held mechanical fans for hot weather.

    Transport could get messed up:

    If you are using an external transport service, chances are that they will run late. Make sure to stay in constant contact with drivers to be conscious of their whereabouts at every step of the day, and triple-check that they have been given correct directions so that guests don’t get lost on the way to your big day.

    You could forget something:

    Your wedding day can be stressful, making it easy for things to slip your mind. To stay on plan, have your maid of honour carry a checklist of things you’ll need and constantly refer to it.

    Someone could be late:

    People run on their own timezones. Expect that not all your guests will arrive on time to witness your nuptials. If the late party is in your wedding party or an important family member, then hold off on the ceremony a bit. Otherwise, go ahead without them.

    Someone could get drunk:

    Things can quickly go wrong when you pair people with alcohol, especially if there is an open bar. Don’t be surprised if people have a bit too much liquid courage at your wedding. If you are worried, consider having a cash bar over an open bar. Guests will be less likely to go overboard drinking if they have to pay for it themselves.

    Image: Unsplash

    Two words almost guaranteed to put a smile on the face of your guests are “open bar”. However, open bars come with benefits as well as downfalls. So which option is right for you and your wedding, an open bar or a cash bar?

    What is an open bar?

    An open bar is when drinks are served for free from a bar at a function. Those hosting the event pay per head and usually covers a variety of alcohols including beers, ciders and wines.

    Pros

    – guests will appreciate it, especially after spending money or travelling for your wedding

    – liquid courage will encourage guests to have more fun

    – it makes your life easier as you don’t have to plan out estimated costs per beverage

    Cons

    – it is costly

    – guests can take advantage and drink too much

    – drunk people may put a negative effect on your wedding

    What is a cash bar?

    A cash bar is when guests can purchase drinks from a variety of alcohols at the bar at a given function.

    Pros 

    – it is the more affordable option, allowing you to put the money towards something else

    – guests are less likely to go overboard with drinking, thus avoiding messy moments

    Cons

    – can be considered a little tacky (it’s not!)

    – guests might feel like it’s inconsiderate to have to spend even more money at a function where they’re considered to be the guest

    Image: Pexels

    Idols SA judge Somizi Mhlongo and Mohale Motaung’s traditional wedding was an extravaganza of epic proportions. The couple, dubbed #SomHale on social media, wed in a lavish traditional African ceremony at Kibler Park, Johannesburg on Saturday, September 28.

    The couple had numerous, often matching outfit changes throughout the day. Their first look was designed by Gert Johan Coetzee, who was inspired by a North African theme.

    Have a look at everything that went on at the spectacular event:

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    A host of local celebrities were in attendance, including Bonang Matheba, Casper Nyovest, Kelly Khumalo, Lerato Kganyago, Pearl Thusi, Julius Malema, and Thando Thabethe.

    According to Liquid Image Consulting, the creative team behind the wedding, the pair had a particular dress code for guests. “Dresscode: #Somhale wanted to showcase African Tradition and they personally selected a region from Africa for each guest detailing what they should wear and sent extensive dress code mood boards to ensure everyone stayed on theme!!” they wrote in an Instagram post.

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    The wedding venue was royally decked out in a white and gold colour scheme.

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    The eight-tiered tower cake and chandelier cakes were a sight to see.

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    According to Somizi, the couple will have their white wedding in January 2020.

    Image: Instagram