Like many of us dog lovers, I have a tendency to spoil our family dog, Bailey. How can you blame me, when he buries his nose in my couch looking for his old toys in such an adorable way? I love our guy, but the thing is, I’m skeptical about getting him new toys because he’s very particular: he only buries his favorite toys in the couch, but many of the rest of them just sit on the floor. When he was a puppy, I used to spend $40 per month on toys and treats alone (those bully sticks can get expensive)! But, in trying to find a (much) more wallet-friendly way to keep Bailey entertained, I found the absolute best gift you could get for any dog, any size, any personality.
For anyone who’s ever pined after their own Mr. Darcy, you’re going to swoon over this proposal story that’s two centuries in the making. Bethany Albert was visiting her parents…
Romantic, symbolic and a key part of any wedding, take your time when making your pick of flowers. Here are flour flower arrangements to inspire you.
FRUIT CENTREPIECE
Bouquet, The Holloway Floral Design
GREENERY
Delicious monster leaves, Aspen; vase (left), vase (back) and vase (right), all Woolworths
FEATHER BOUQUET
Feather bouquet, Epanouir Flower Studio
HANGING INSTALLATIONS
Hanging installation, Foraged
Styling: Francoise Jeanne de Villiers
Photography: Gareth van Nelson
*All products subject to availability
Monochrome suits are making a big comeback and wearing them correctly head to toe can result in a super sleek look. Pairing formal and more casual pieces together…
Afrique is a new collection that is bold, raw, connected to earth and proudly South African. Each jewel tells a story and evokes captivating mystique and elegance, which is perfect for a bride who wishes to honour and remember her culture or heritage on her wedding day.
If you’re a bride who prides herself on her culture and heritage and you’re looking for an outstanding element along those lines to complement your wedding day, keep reading.
Black Betty Jewellery and Design has been around since 2012. Created by designer Kristin Weixelbaumer; the concept stems from her constant enthrallment with the relationship between natural elements and the human experience.
The key component in their creative process is handcraftsmanship and they truly value the essence of humanity inherent in imperfection. All their jewellery is designed by pen and paper and is brought to life by the handiwork of artisans in South Africa, India, Indonesia and Sri Lanka.
Due to its core value, every piece of jewellery is unique and each has their own story to tell, with its own personality. They have a wide range of jewellery; from earrings, necklaces, pendants, rings and bracelets which is perfect for any age, occasion and mood.
Their new collection, Afrique, is bold, raw, connected to earth and proudly South African. Each jewel tells a story and evokes captivating mystique and elegance, which is perfect for a bride who wishes to honour and remember her culture or heritage on her wedding day.
Although some jewellery pieces may look familiar they have taken a new approach and have added a variety of new materials such as sterling silver and gold vermeil in order to keep their jewels both fashionable and chic.
The Afrique jewellery is elegant enough to make the simplest wedding dress breath-taking and beautiful. To all the brides finding it hard to choose jewellery for the big day, have a look at Black Betty’s new Afrique collection, it’s definitely one to be considered.
How you tell your guests about the big day is pretty, well, crucial. Do it in style by taking advantage of one of these wedding stationery trends. GREENERY…
So, you’ve found the love of your life. Now it’s time to find the other one – your wedding dress. Read our top tips from local experts before you head to the boutiques or meet a designer.
COLLECTION, COUTURE, HIRE OR PREVIOUSLY LOVED?
Each option has its own pros and cons. So it basically comes down to personal preference and budget. Buying or hiring a new or worn dress means that you can try on the dress before you buy it. But Natasha Holmes, owner and designer of Lou & Co, cautions: ‘Boutiques often only stock sample sizes, which isn’t the size of an average woman. If they don’t stock your size, don’t waste your time, as you simply cannot commit to a dress if you can’t try on the right size.’
If you have a dress made, Stephen of Stephen van Eeden Atelier advises you create a shortlist of potential designers and ‘make sure that their aesthetic and style reflect your personal style’. Having a dress made from scratch requires confidence in your designer, more time and, often, more money, but guarantees something unique.
MONEY, MONEY, MONEY
‘There is a big price difference between an off-the-rail gown and made-to-measure bespoke,’ says Stephen. Designers usually have a price range on their website and it’s worth knowing beforehand. Stephen suggests you look at the quality and finishing of a dress to see if it is fully lined and French seamed, as this determines the true cost.
If you’re buying or hiring, let the sales consultant know your budget. A good one won’t suggest anything outside of your budget but will find a way to incorporate what you want. Natasha adds: ‘Being honest will allow us to quickly rule out what you can’t afford and find a suitable dress in your price range.’
EARLY-BIRD BRIDE
Start shopping at least six months before your big day – even more if you intend on having your dress made. ‘Trends like lace appliqué take time,’ says Natasha. A boutique may have to order in your size or make alterations – and you don’t want to rush that process.
BYO
Wear a strapless nude bra and panties, even shapewear if you’ll be wearing it on your big day. ‘It’s easier to judge fit with a smooth silhouette,’ says Natasha, ‘and no one warns you about this, but you should be ready for the designer or consultant to see you in your undies! Wedding gowns are tricky to get in and out of.’
Remove any jewellery in case it catches. A simple necklace can change the entire neckline of a dress. Make an effort with your hair and make-up to get a sense of what you will look like on the day. Taking a pair of heels along is also recommended, but boutiques often have pairs to try on.
TRIBE VIBE
The first fitting can be overwhelming and you will want to be surrounded by your people. When fitting at Lou & Co, Natasha recommends that you bring along only two or three people whose opinions you value most, such as your mom, sister or best friend. ‘Too many opinions make it harder to know what’s right.’
ROME WASN’T BUILT IN A DAY
Chances are, you won’t find ‘The One’ at your first try-on session. Don’t be disheartened! There are always more boutiques and other designers to try. And, with every consultation, you will walk away knowing something new about the one you really want.