• That period of bliss after getting engaged is a feeling that should be savoured because after that, it’s a lot of sheer panic due to being overwhelmed. Perhaps you’re the cool bride-to-be who lets things roll like water off a duck’s back. Or maybe your friends would describe you as a full-blown bridezilla. No matter the box you’ve nicely categorised yourself in, there’s no denying that planning a wedding will leave you with a few additional grey hairs.

    Whether you’re newly engaged or starting to plan your nuptials after a year of engaged bliss, here are some tips to help you beat back the monster that is panic:

    Set the date: 

    The first step is figuring out when you and your future spouse are going to say: “I do.” Experts all agree, planning a wedding can be stressful, so make sure that you give yourself a realistic timeline. Between 10 – 14 months is a good amount of time.

    Get to know your budget: 

    The worst thing you can do is to start a marriage with the burden of debt. Be realistic about your budget and get to know the parameters you’re working with in order to distribute money appropriately. A great next step is to compile your guest list and figure out the kind of experience you’d like them to have. This will allow you to budget accordingly, but make sure you don’t go overboard! This day is all about the couple.

    What to look out for: 

    Bridal couples often have their heart set on a specific venue, but when booking, they find that it’s booked out for the date they’ve chosen. It can be heartbreaking, but something that can be avoided if you land your venue before choosing your date. Justt make sure you do the proper research. While you may have a rough list of who you are inviting to the ceremony, it’s best to not commit to headcount until you’ve sorted out your budget.

    A tip that the experts swear by 

    So, what is one tip that wedding planners around the world swear by? It’s this: leave it up to the professionals. Sometimes it can be difficult to let go of the reigns and let the professionals do their thing, but if you hire the right people and offer them some creative leeway, you’ll be able to sleep a bit better at night. Collaboration with quality vendors is the key to a happy couple.

    Picture: @gracecharlottephoto

    No matter the season, you want members of your bridal party to feel elegant and stylish. Unless you have an unwavering vision for your bridesmaids, it’s quite easy to be swayed by the plethora of wedding trends out there. 

    Between wrap dresses, bold prints and jumpsuits were helping you sift through the trends and providing you with killer ensembles that your bridesmaids will love wearing.

    The elegant slip dress

    Rust and champagne colours are all the rage right now and tying this phenomenal colour in with an elegant slip dress design will leave your bridesmaids feeling chic.

    Wowing with bold prints

    Adding bold prints to any dress, no matter the occasion can be a great way to elevate things. Whether it is summer or springtime, this floral design contrasted with navy hues is bound to make a statement.

    Wrap dress for the win

    We love a gorgeous wrap dress. Not only are these trendy designs comfortable, but they can be as chic as you would like. Add a few patterns or make it pop with a gorgeous colour like emerald green and you have a winner.

    Jumping for joy

    Jumpsuits don’t have to be the only thing on the bridal menu. Jumpsuits are uber comfortable and can add a little twist to your wedding party, the colour is also to die for!

     

    Who says chiffon is outdated? This fabric is an extremely popular and versatile choice and can be incredibly affordable for bridal couples on a budget. There are so many possibilities that come with choosing this fabric, but make it’s always important to make it your own.

    A sea of velvet dreams

    When you think of bridesmaids dresses, velvet may not be the first thing that comes to mind. This fabric can be quite a departure from traditional fabrics such as chiffon, but it offers a unique look for brides looking to take the road less travelled. It will also leave your bridal babes feeling stylish and oh-so fierce.

    Pictures: Pinterest | Show me your Mumu

    If you’re busy planning your wedding, there are probably a million things you’ve managed to scribble down on your to-do list. Nestled between dress fittings and chats with vendors is probably choosing the perfect colour palette for your wedding. 

    Now, we’re sure that we don’t have to tell you how important choosing colours for your big day can be. After all, it’s right at the top of your list. The colour palette of your choice will influence every aspect of your day – from the decor to the cake. 

    Of course, this can feel incredibly overwhelming. Thankfully, the experts are providing us with some direction. Here are a few of the most popping colours for 2022: 

    “Very Peri” 

    It’s only fitting that we start with Pantone’s Colour of the Year – Very Peri. A beautiful combination of blues and purples that offer a romantic and vibrant tone to your wedding celebration. This colour packs a punch and works well when paired with pink, vibrant purples, or even classic black. 

    colour palette
    Pinterest

    Stay in neutral 

    While sticking to neutral colours such as creams and whites may seem like the safe bet, experts say this is quite popular right now. However, opting for texture and adding floral to add a little pop can be a great way to take things to the next level. 

    Pinterest

     

    Terracotta & Rust 

    This beautiful warm hue has been everywhere in 2021, and trust us, it’s not going anywhere. These colours are borrowed from Mother Nature and offer earthy tones that are perfect for any wedding – no matter the season. 

    Pinterest

    Stay Bold 

    Not every wedding couple likes to play it safe. Bold and vibrant colours such as deep purples and blues can feel like a massive departure from the traditional blush pinks or all-white decor, but this can be an amazing way to make a splash on your wedding day. If you’re feeling a little anxious about it, why not pair it with a tone that you feel a bit more comfortable with. 

    Pinterest

    A sea of grass and sage

    A breath of fresh air. These are the perfect tones for wedding couples looking to add a soft and relaxing feel to their decor. Deeper greens and blues work well with these colours, as well as gold.

    Pinterest

    Picture: Pinterest

    Forget the Amalfi Coast of Italy or the azure blue waters of the Maldives, South Africa is the perfect destination for newlyweds looking to kick back after months of wedding planning, stare into each other’s eyes, and enjoy a romance-filled getaway that will inevitably set the tone for a lifetime of adventures. 

    While we know South Africa is a destination close to our hearts, it seems 1.6 million international travellers agree with us. According to a survey conducted by Big 7 Travel, SA is the perfect destination to enjoy a romantic getaway after saying I do.

    Looks like the rolling vineyards of Stellenbosch and the majestic Big 5 in the Kruger National Park have snagged us a spot at number 6, beating out honeymoon favourites such as Hawaii and Spain.


    Also Read: How to pick your honeymoon destination


    The gorgeous white-sandy beaches of Clifton, coupled with the mesmerising beauty of Table Mountain ensure honeymooners get to enjoy the perfect beachside escape. But it’s this classic honeymoon picture juxtaposed with the rugged beauty of South Africa that is sure to steal every newlywed’s heart. An epic trip in a hot air balloon over the beauty of Magaliesberg or a magical stroll in one of the many tropical forests that make up KwaZulu-Natal – there’s literally something for everyone. 

    South Africa is a dream location to visit: endless natural beauty and clifftop views, pastel pink neighbourhoods in Cape Town, wineries in Stellenbosch and turquoise waters. What more could you ask for from a romantic honeymoon?

    Yes to all of the above!

    Picture: tripstocherish