Want a truly unforgettable wedding day? Of course you do! Pull it all together and throw the best wedding ever with our simple 7-step guide.
1. CONSIDER HIRING A WEDDING PLANNER
Many couples set out thinking they can accomplish planning a wedding on their own. In the case of smaller weddings, this is definitely achievable, but if you have big plans for yours, hiring an experienced professional is the way to go. Other than having the benefit of them taking the reins and allowing you to really enjoy yourselves, wedding planners can customise specific packages according to your needs and budget, and recommend trusted vendors they have worked with in the past.
2. TAKE TIME TO GREET ALL OF YOUR GUESTS
Some of them will have travelled from far just to attend your wedding. Show them just how much you appreciate their presence by taking time to greet everyone. It doesn’t have to be all at once – spread the quality time throughout the evening so you get around to spending time with each person; whether it be a quick chat over a drink, visiting their table during dinner, or shaking it out later on the dance floor.
3. SPEND 20 MINUTES JUST ENJOYING THE MOMENT
It may seem like an obvious thing to do, but you’ll probably be so wrapped up in other aspects of the wedding that you may even forget to just take a deep breath, relax and live in the present moment. Set aside a few minutes to tell your spouse how much you appreciate them and how you’re looking forward to experiencing this next chapter of your lives together.
4. CREATE CHARGING STATIONS
We’re sure you don’t want your guests glued to their phones the entire night, but having a few plug points with chargers available in well-placed areas is a nice (not to mention modern) way to show your guests you care. This will also encourage them to capture some pics for Instagram, so be sure to put up a sign nearby with your wedding hashtag if you have one.
5. HAVE AN MC
While it may seem unnecessarily formal, choosing a family member or friend with a commanding voice to be the master of ceremonies on the day will come in handy for announcements or gathering people for group photos. Try to keep speeches to a minimum to maximise dining and social time.
6. ASK FOR SONG REQUESTS
A great way to make sure your guests are grooving it up on the dance floor until the early hours is to ask them for song ideas. Lock down the ones that are most special to you and your partner first, but pepper the big day with submissions from your friends and family. Ask them to RSVP with their top pick, or allow them to ask the DJ to play their favourite tracks on the day.
7. SERVE LATE-NIGHT SNACKS
If you plan to extend the wedding festivities late into the night, you may want to cater for those still standing. The last thing you want is for your guests to go home hungry, so hire a food truck to dish out midnight snacks, such as boerie rolls, popcorn cones and gourmet sliders, or simply order a few pizzas for the really ravenous. A coffee stand is also a great option – guests will be grateful for a warming pick-me up.
Picture: Unsplash
Known as one of the most famous private game reserves and neighbour to South Africa’s crown jewel the Kruger National Park, Sabi Sands Game Reserve offers guests a…
With golden leaves and a slight chill in the air, autumn is here and so are the fall bridal make-up trends of 2019! This year there’s a fun mix of colour bold designs, while some looks are heading to back to simple glamour. Find your perfect autumn look with our top five picks.
1. VAMPIRE GLAM
A dark lip is a perfect look for all skin tones. Keeping the eyes light and naturally creates a gorgeous contrast effect that will leave you glowing. Go for a dark cherry or blackberry shade for a rich shade of red.
2. ALL BLACK
This isn’t your average smoky eye. The all-black eye look really embraces the cool and darker tones associated with the coming of winter and lets your eyes stand out. Pair this with a light and natural lip to balance out the boldness of the make-up.
3. METAL MAGIC
Will we ever stop loving metallic shades? Not when these shimmery looks keep coming back as top contenders in all aspects of the wedding day. Dazzle your eyes with rich shades of shimmering orange and gold to mimic the fallen leaves of autumn for your bridal make-up.
4. BOLD EYES AND DEWY LIPS
Graphic designs have added an artistic touch to bridal glam, with fine line work, extended cat eyes and pops of colour. Match this look with some dewy lips to perfectly complement the light and minimal feel.
5. ALL THAT SPARKLES
Imagine the glitter on your eyes as little snowflakes falling on your face and you have a stunning magical wintery look. But don’t just stop at your eyes, bring the glitter down along your cheekbone for some added highlight and a more whimsical style.
Images: Pinterest
Planning an international honeymoon on a budget? Don’t fret. There are so many incredible travel destinations rich in culture and experiences that won’t break the bank either. As…
If you’re looking for a classic and timeless gift that’s as unique as it is elegant, Shimansky will do nothing short of wow you.
The captivating Dancing Diamond heart pendants are the perfect way to dance your way to love and spoil someone special (or have someone spoil you, hint hint). The distinctive design allows the diamond to – quite literally – dance within its setting. Watch as it sparkles against your already beaming skin.
The pendants come in two limited edition heart shapes at a retail price of R3 995, available exclusively from Shimansky stores. For more information about Shimansky and the Dancing Diamonds visit shimansky.com.
Photographs Courtesy
Whether you and your SO are heading for a destination honeymoon or staying local, we’re here to guide you into packing the beauty essentials you need, no matter…
Take a trip into the wild with Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge for a glamorous honeymoon stay. With endless activities and luxurious amenities, this spot is the perfect destination for keen adventurers and those looking for an intimate escape.
THE VENUE
A mere 1.5 hours from Richards Bay lies Africa’s oldest game reserve, Hluhluwe iMfolozi Park, with its singular game lodge, Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge. This 4-star accommodation sits privately in the expansive reserve and in the middle of Big 5 territory, making it the ideal getaway for couples. Besides taking pride in their excellent service, Rhino Ridge fulfils its duty as part of the Isibindi Africa Lodge group to protect and preserve the natural surrounds and species present in the game reserve, as well as uplift the local community of Mpembeni.
THE ROOMS
With only four room types to choose from and 36 beds in total, Rhino Ridge provides an exclusive and intimate stay. The honeymoon villas at Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge are what dreams are made of. Nestled in indigenous bush and secluded from the rest of the reserve so you have your privacy, each villa overlooks the expansive wilderness and boasts a private plunge pool for you to take a dip at your leisure. There are also eight luxury bush villas, four safari rooms and two safari family suites to stay in.
THE FOOD
Meals are enjoyed in the main lounge, which showcases breathtaking views of the bush, sunsets and starry skies. Indulge in an array of cocktails and local dishes on the terrace, or sip on one of your favourite South African wines by the fire pit. All the meals are freshly made from local produce and cater to all dietary requirements.
THE ACTIVITIES
Apart from the main lodge, Rhino Ridge has its own private spa with organic treatments designed to promote health, wellness and, of course, relaxation. While you unwind for a massage, you can look out at some incredible views of the reserve. When it comes to adventurous activities, the lodge offers game drives twice a day and guided bush walks on request. You can also enjoy a Zulu cultural experience with visits to the local Mpembeni community, or browse the fascinating items in the Centenary Capture Centre and Museum.
For more information, head to rhinoridge.co.za.
Images: Rhino Ridge / rhinoridge.co.za