• Going down on one knee to pop the question is a special moment, one that requires the perfect setting and atmosphere. Music is an easy way to amplify the romantic spirit, and many opt to play their favourite love songs to serenade the scene.

    It turns out there are some love songs that stand above the rest. Learningjewelry.com analysed the top 60 Spotify playlists dedicated proposals and engagements. Here are the sweet songs that appeared most often.

    All of Me – John Legend

    Perfect – Ed Sheeran

    Thinking Out Loud – Ed Sheeran

    A Thousand Years – Christina Perry

    Make You Feel My Love – Adele

    Marry You – Bruno Mars

    On Bended Knee – Boys II Men

    Just Say Yes – Snow Patrol

    I Swear – All-4-One

    Picture: Pexels

    Getting married is a large step in life, one that some brides start preparing for years in advance. In many cultures, it is common for women to have a bridal trousseau, a collection of items that will ease them into married life.

    Trousseau is derived from the old French diminutive trousse, which means ‘to wrap or bundle in a package’. While the contents may differ from bride to bride, the overarching idea behind the trousseau is to start your wedding and marriage on the right foot. Items that often feature in a bridal trousseau include clothing, jewelry, linens, bedding, pottery, and household appliances. These items are traditionally kept safe in a cedar hope chest or trunk.

    The bridal trousseau can be dated back hundreds of years and across various cultures, and was often considered a symbol of status. This practice saw its early roots in the form of dowries, and has been witnessed in ancient civilizations including Babylon, Greece, and the Roman Empire.

    It reached its peak in popularity during the Renaissance, specifically in France. Brides with wealthy families would fill a chest with items like linens, dresses, bedding and homeware to prepare her for her future marriage. The fuller and more ornate the trousseau, the higher the bride’s status. Those from a lower economic class often hand-made items to put into the trousseau.

    A bridal handkerchief was a must-have item in these days. Historically, the Romans were said to wet the handkerchief with perfume and brides would wear it over their shoulders or neck. Once the French got hold of this, it became a practice reserved for royalty or the upper class.

    By the mid-19th century, brides of all classes had adopted this trend and began sporting handkerchiefs customised with the initials of the bride and groom, interlaced as a representation of their union.

    The trousseau tradition has waned in popularity over the years, and shed its connotations with wealth and class. It is still commonly witnessed in Indian culture, and some Cape Malay families in South Africa also uphold the practice.

    A modern version of this concept is experienced through the process of registering for wedding gifts, hosting a bridal shower, and saving family heirlooms.

    Picture: Pexels

    Afrojack is a married man. The world renowned DJ tied the knot with Italian heiress Elettra Lamborghini in a lavish ceremony on Saturday, September 26.

    The pair said ‘I do’ at the Villa Balbiano in Lake Como, Italy. Elettra wore a sheer white fishtail gown with lace detailing by Galia Lahav for the reception, and had multiple changes throughout the day.

    They had their closest family and friends in attendance.

    Their massive six-tier cake was a true showstopper.

    Elettra (26) is the granddaughter of Ferruccio Lamborghini, the founder of motor company Lamborghini. She is also a former reality star, known best for her appearance on UK show Geordie Shore.

    The couple have been together for two years, and announced their engagement in December 2019. They tied the knot on their second anniversary.

    Picture/s: Instagram / Elettra Lamborghini

    Another South African celebrity couple is celebrating a special anniversary. It has been one year since rapper Priddy Ugly (real name Ricardo Moloi) and musician and host Bontle Modiselle tied the knot, and the pair seem happier than ever.

    Taking to social media, Priddy Ugly gushed about his wife on their special day.

    “This picture genuinely represents what the last 11 years have felt like, complete bliss,” he wrote on his Instagram page. “MaAfrika Moloi, I am honored to be the man that you chose to travel along this life’s journey with. Witnessing your growth, from when we were teens, to students in tertiary, to being independents, to marriage & parenthood, I couldn’t be more proud of the people we’ve become. Our 1st year of marriage flew by so fast, I’m hoping the next 70 are a lot more prolonged, I’m enjoying the ride.

    Happy 1year Anniversary Beautiful @bontle.modiselle – I Love You ❤️??

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CFsGXBMJttG/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Bontle also had some sweet words for her longterm love.

    “Ntate Moloi, you’re a very special man to me. A Purposeful life-long friendship and union. You fill my cup. You make me happy. Thank you for the life we continue to share together. Ke ho rata ka pelo le moya. A year in marriage down, a lifetime to go! I love you @priddy_ugly ❤️✨ Happy Anniversary!” she wrote.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CFru8e4nwTb/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    The pair have been together for over a decade, and tied the knot in a traditional ceremony on September 28 in Kempton Park. At the time, Bontle was pregnant with their first child, Afrika who was born a few months later.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B6iPFSwppWC/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Picture: Instagram / Bontle Modiselle