If you’ve had waking nightmares about sneezing our way down the aisle, then don’t worry! While flowers smell and look beautiful, for some, pollen allergies will force you to look at nature’s beauty with an evil eye.
Whether you’re thinking about your allergy-prone guests or you’re a pollen-sensitive bride or groom, there’s good news! There is a range of mesmerising wedding florals that are the perfect addition to any wedding, enabling you to breathe.
Here are five hypoallergenic wedding florals to add to your bridal bouquet or wedding ceremony:
Peonies
The queen of all the wedding flowers. You’ll be happy to know that peonies are not only the perfect addition to your ‘big day’ but it’s also hypoallergenic. Add them to your centrepieces or make them the star of the show when it comes to your bouquet, no matter what, you won’t be stuffed up while booging the night away.
Cacti, Succulents and Airplants
Succulents are having a bit of a moment right now. Not only are they allergy-friendly, but they’re affordable and quite easy to look after. Sage green, dusty blue and pale pink are all beautiful neutral colours for bridal couples searching for an understated look to add to their already fabulous wedding!
Hydrangeas
Did you know that hydrangeas are a pollen-sensitive individual’s best friend? Their sticky pollen ensures that it’s not released into the air, and is a perfect addition to an allergy sensitive’s wedding. Gorgeous and understated, hydrangeas can offer an elegant and flowy look, filling up quite a bit of space in the process.
Roses
Ah, the rose. This famous flower has often been associated with love, so you’ll be happy to know that roses are the perfect choice for those with pollen allergies. Along with adding an enchanting smell to your wedding, roses offer a look that’s classic, a wonderful addition to your wedding florals and bouquet.
Orchids
There’s something mesmerising about orchids. Along with being an incredibly elegant and beautiful flower, it’s also allergy-friendly, available in a plethora of colours and sizes, and is great for those tropical-themed weddings.
ALSO SEE: Flower Availability by Season and Locality: Plan Your Wedding Blooms Wisely
Flower Availability by Season and Locality: Plan Your Wedding Blooms Wisely
Feature Image: Pexels
Similar to coconut water and good skin, tradition and weddings go hand-in-hand, and there’s nothing more traditional than forking out thousands for a jaw-dropping engagement ring. We’ve been…
Who wouldn’t want to walk down the aisle with their furriest four-legged friend by their side? Clad in the cutest black and white tuxedo, and sporting the wettest of all the noses, having your fur baby is surely a dream, not always practical.
However, don’t fear fur parents, we’ve thought of some creative ways you can include your bestie in your big day without (hopefully) causing a cat-astrophe.
Get ready with them …
Grab your wedding gown and snap a few adorable pics with them before the ceremony.
We all need a furry ring bearer or flower up
Flower girls are cute, but have you ever seen a dog walk down the aisle carrying a ring!
Who wouldn’t want a little anxiety-relieving support at the altar
Wedding day jitters got you tongue-tied … ease your nerves or add a little warmth to the ceremony by having your pet nearby.
Make them the star of your wedding cake
Who doesn’t want to wow guests with the cutest wedding topper ever … a great way to include any pet is to include them on your wedding cake.
Add them to the post-wedding ceremony walk
Once the vows are said and done, take a walk with your pup or pups!
Signature wedding/pet cocktail anyone?
Have your resident mixologist whip up a drink as sweet or spicy as your best friend!
But don’t forget to add them to the bar menu!
Make sure your guests know just who the inspiration for the signature drinks is by adding your fur baby to the menu!
Make it uber-romantic by including them in your first dance
They may just stop you from stepping on your new husband/wife’s toes! Also, it’s a super adorable way to include them in your wedding.
Give back
While your pup is privilege to have you shower them with love and treats, not all animals are that lucky. Skip the traditional wedding favour and pay it forward by adding a little donation option or box for your guests to add a little sunshine to an animal’s life.
Photobooth props!
Show guests a good time by incorporating your pet into your big day with a few hilarious or adorable photo booth props!
ALSO SEE: Everything you need to know about wedding dress alterations
Feature image: Pexels
A rare Dom Pérignon Vintage 1961, created for the wedding of H.R.H. The Prince of Wales and Lady Diana, will soon go on auction at Bruun Rasmussen. The…
You’ve found your dream dress but it doesn’t sit quite the way you were expecting. While most brides spend hours dreaming about the perfect gown that they’ll walk down the aisle in, what’s not often talked about (or dreamt about) is the logistics of wedding dress alterations.
The fit of your wedding dress is oh-so-important, which makes understanding wedding alterations just as important – but what to know?
Types of wedding dress alterations:
Adding details
If you have the time and the budget, customising your dress to include a range of details that suit your fancy – sleeves, train length, shoulder straps or beading – can be done by a reliable seamstress.
Basic hemming
This is probably the most common type of alteration and can range from hemming the length of the gown to adjusting the fit of the dress. These basic adjustments are a great way to make sure your wedding gown is comfy, looks spectacular on you and leaves you feeling beautiful.
Keep in mind that most wedding gowns will need alterations, which leads us to the next tip: budget.
Planning is everything
Add wedding dress alterations to your budget:
You want to look amazing on your big day and it’s important to remember that you may need wedding dress alterations to ensure that the dress fits you like a glove. Now, some wedding boutiques are heaven-sent and offer free alterations (depending on what you want to be done), however, you may need to add alterations to your budget.
So, how much will it cost? Another important note is that all wedding dress seamstresses are different and will charge their own rate, but you can expect to pay around R2500 (or more) for alterations, so make sure that you add this into your wedding budget. Another aspect to keep in mind – more expensive is always better, so make sure that you shop around.
Timing is everything
No bride needs the extra stress and stressing about whether you’ll receive your wedding gown before you walk down the aisle is stressful. Timing is everything when it comes to alterations, so make sure that you create a timeline that ensures you won’t be pulling your hair from the stress.
If it’s possible, purchase your wedding dress at least 10 months before your date as buying your dress early allows you to have an abundance of time for fittings. Schedule a fitting at least eight to 12 weeks before the wedding and then a second fitting at least two weeks before you walk down the aisle.
Fitting tricks
Bring along your wedding shoes, accessories and undergarments
Bring along your wedding day essentials in order to ensure that you get a proper fit. There’s no question that shoe length, your favourite shapewear and a strapless bra can make all the difference when trying on clothes, and the same goes for your wedding dress. You want to know exactly how it’s going to fit and during your fitting appointments, you’ll get a sense of what you’ll look like on the day.
An extra tip: Your wedding dress is usually altered according to the length of your shoe, so if you’re looking to change into a pair of sneakers during the reception, it’s going to be a bit long and you may find yourself tripping all over the place. To avoid this, make sure that you purchase a shoe that you love and will keep you nice and comfy.
Bring a friend
This may be an unspoken wedding dress shopping rule, but it’s something that is always a good idea to say again. Bring along a supportive friend or family member to help keep your spirits up and help give you a different (but positive) perspective when shopping around or going for fittings. It’s also really nice to have someone to document those memories with a selfie or two before clinking your glass in celebration of finding “the one.”
Happy wedding dress shopping!
ALSO SEE: A Complete Guide to Wedding Dress Styles Every Bride Should Know
A Complete Guide to Wedding Dress Styles Every Bride Should Know
Feature Image: Unsplash
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Planning a wedding in the city comes with a special kind of magic, the energy, the skyline views, the architecture, and the blend of modern flair with timeless romance. South Africa’s major cities offer some of the most unique and breathtaking urban venues, perfect for couples who want a sophisticated celebration without escaping to the countryside.
Here’s your guide to the most beautiful city wedding venues across South Africa, each offering its own charm, character, and unforgettable backdrop.
Johannesburg: Glamour, Skyline Views & Modern Elegance
Joburg’s wedding scene is a blend of luxury and cosmopolitan style, making it ideal for couples who love modern romance.
1. The Forum – The Campus (Bryanston)
A sleek architectural masterpiece with manicured gardens and contemporary event spaces. It’s perfect for stylish, design-led weddings with indoor-outdoor flexibility.
2. Randlords (Braamfontein)
Located at the top of South Point Towers, Randlords offers panoramic 360-degree views of Johannesburg. Sunset ceremonies and glittering night receptions here feel absolutely magical.
3. The Sanctuary Venue (Kyalami)
A serene escape within the city — elegant interiors, soft lighting, and tranquil water features make it ideal for intimate, luxurious celebrations.
Cape Town: Urban Romance with Ocean & Mountain Magic
Cape Town is where natural beauty meets city sophistication. Couples can enjoy iconic views without leaving the metropolitan heartbeat.
1. The Silo Hotel (V&A Waterfront)
A jewel of contemporary luxury. Think dramatic architecture, glamorous interiors, and exclusive rooftop spaces overlooking Table Mountain.
2. Zeitz MOCAA (Silo District)
For art lovers and modern couples, this world-famous museum offers unforgettable spaces filled with creativity and architectural brilliance.
3. Kelvin Grove (Newlands)
A timeless city-centre classic with lush gardens, grand ballrooms and a heritage feel — perfect for elegant, traditional weddings.
Durban: Warm Coastal City Vibes & Tropical Flair
Durban’s city venues bring sunshine, ocean breezes, and a relaxed urban energy — perfect for vibrant celebrations.
1. The Oyster Box (Umhlanga)
While known for coastal luxury, the Oyster Box also offers chic indoor venues with a glamorous city-meets-ocean appeal.
2. Coastlands Musgrave
This venue offers sky-high city views and contemporary ballrooms ideal for large, glamorous weddings.
3. The Beverly Hills Hotel
Iconic, elegant, and perfect for couples who want a modern city wedding with a touch of beachside romance.
Pretoria: Classic Architecture & City Sophistication
Pretoria combines historical charm with modern design, offering timeless and stately venues.
1. The Pretoria Country Club
Elegant, classic and beautifully maintained — a favourite for sophisticated urban weddings.
2. Monte De Dios
A luxury venue set just outside the city buzz but still close enough to maintain an urban feel. Think European-style charm with sweeping views.
3. Black Bamboo at Menlyn
Ideal for smaller, intimate, high-end weddings with award-winning cuisine and stylish décor.
Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth): Seaside City Celebrations
This coastal city blends relaxed atmosphere with modern city convenience.
1. The Boardwalk Hotel & Convention Centre
A luxurious waterfront venue perfect for couples who want elegance with a laid-back coastal twist.
2. Radisson Blu Hotel
Chic and contemporary with ocean views — perfect for modern weddings with picture-perfect photo opportunities.
Why Choose a City Wedding Venue in South Africa?
City weddings bring together convenience, style and endless possibilities:
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Easy access for guests
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Close proximity to top hotels, photographers and décor teams
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Stylish architecture and skyline backdrops
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All-weather flexibility
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A modern, elegant atmosphere
Whether you’re dreaming of a glamorous rooftop ceremony, an artistic industrial space, or a luxurious ballroom in the heart of the city, South Africa offers countless options to bring your vision to life.
Featured Image: Canva