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In Advice

6 Tips that will leave you feeling great on your wedding day

December 6, 2021 No Comments

Your wedding day is often a mix of excitement and anxiety, with stress thrown in for good measure. Unfortunately, uncomfortable bloating, a few panic attacks and unexpected energy dips may also rear their unnecessary heads.

If there’s one thing that any bride wants to feel, it’s great – especially when you feel the glare of countless eyeballs on you. Whether you imagine it as the day of your dreams or the start of an incredible journey, here are six tips to leave you feeling your best on your big day.

Grab a cup of lemon water

Hot water and a squeeze of lemon is the miracle cure to bloating. It also offers a natural way to boost alertness and energy – who knew! Lemon is also bursting with vitamin C and is a great immune booster (you hear that COVID!) Along with all these incredible benefits, it will also help you stay hydrated throughout the day, so make sure that you sip on a glass or two.

Don’t forget to eat

Saying “I do” can be overwhelming with your wedding day going by in a blur. If there’s anything that you take from this article it’s this – don’t forget to eat! Indulge in a few healthy snacks and good food throughout the day to keep your energy levels up and squash those nerves. Loading up on veggies, proteins and some healthy snacks will ensure that you steer clear of those sugary snacks and carbs, which are known to spike sugar levels and cause you to lose energy quicker.

Handy essential oils

There are so many benefits to having your favourite essential oils handy. Energy crashes and anxiety be gone, thanks to a few sniffs of lavender and peppermint essential oils. Put a few drops on your pulse points or take a few sniffs, including a few bottles of oils in your clutch will offer you a natural way to boost energy and calm your nerves.

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Trade coffee for green tea

Is green tea the best tasting beverage? No, but it will leave you a lot less jittery than consuming five cups of coffee. Green tea is teeming with antioxidants and caffeine, ensuring that you get your energy and have glowing skin. A few other benefits? It helps with that pesky bloating and it also contains the amino acid L-theanine which promotes relaxation. We see no downsides!

Exchange letters with your soon-to-be husband

Your big day can go by in a whirl, and while you’ll have a ton of beautiful photos, there’s nothing that stops time quite like a handwritten love letter. Consider writing heartfelt letters to each other to help wash the jitters away. There’s nothing quite as magical as reading a letter from your person and cracking a smile. Plus, it’s bound to fill your day with love!

Surround yourself with people you trust

Last, but not least is surrounding yourself with loved ones on your big day. We all know that wedding planning is stressful and the last thing you need is negativity. If those around you aren’t wiping away tears of joy, then be sure to cut a few people from the guest list. This is your special day, so make sure that you surround yourself with judgement-free and positive energy – only!

Picture: Finn and the Fox Photography

In Advice

Date night ideas that are unique and COVID-friendly

October 5, 2021 No Comments

Whether you’ve been racking your brain on unique and cute date night ideas to try, or whether you’re looking for convenient ways to enjoy each others company while still practising social distancing, we have a few adorable ideas that we know you’ll love. If you’re stuck on what to do for your next date, here are a few fun socially-distanced date ideas.

A picnic with a twist:

Restaurants are packed, and first dates are always awkward. If you’re looking for something that will break the ice and add a fun element to date night, try this picnic twist. Here’s what you do; each person needs to bring lunch for the other and then switch. This is an awesome way to get to know the other person’s taste, and it may even offer some comical relief.

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A post shared by The Picnic Dream (@the.picnicdream)

Backyard movie night:

There’s nothing more romantic than enjoying your favourite movie beneath the stars. The Galileo Open Air Cinema hosts a variety of movie nights, but if you’re looking to skip the crowds and do it yourself at home, then this is a great option. A projector, a sheet and your favourite movie is all you need to make this happen. If you’re feeling a little fancy and nostalgic, why not hire (or buy) a popcorn machine for the night.

Enjoy an online sommelier class:

They say that the couple that learns together stays together… or something like that. If you love wine, spend the evening learning with your partner by taking a virtual sommelier class together. Airbnb’s Virtual Experience has a ton of great options to choose from, which doesn’t only include wine tasting. Switch things up by taking a virtual gin tasting or coffee tasting.

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A post shared by Hidden Valley Wines (@hiddenvalleywines)

Airbnb Online Experiences:

Speaking of Airbnb’s virtual experiences, they have a range of experiences to suit your date-night desires. Learn how to make pasta from an authentic Italian grandma or enjoy a mellow cello concert from the comfort of your home. The internet can truly be an amazing place, so take advantage of it.

Take a hike:

Are you even from Cape Town if you haven’t gone hiking for date night? There’s no better way to get to know your partner (or potential partner) than when you’re huffing and puffing up a mountainside. Spending time outdoors is also a great way to keep your distance while enjoying someone’s company. From hiking up Devil’s Peak to enjoying a stroll through Jonkershoek Nature Reserve, Cape Town is home to some incredible hiking trails that boast spectacular views that you can enjoy together.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CMRD4IApxCD/

Host a couples game night:

Date night doesn’t have to be just the two of you. Rope in a few friends and host a couples game night – virtually, of course. Pop open Zoom, choose your virtual game, light some candles, grab your drinks, and let the games begin! This is also a great way to spend some time with friends.

Picture: Pexels

In Advice

Must-do honeymoon activities in Bali

December 2, 2019 No Comments

In recent years, South Africans have flocked to Bali to bask in its beauty. Bali has become a go-to destination for honeymoons and it’s not difficult to see why. With picturesque landscapes, stunning beaches for swimming, surfing and a one-of-a-kind culture, Bali holds endless opportunities for fun and romantic honeymoon activities. Here are some that are not to be missed.

Watch the sunset at Uluwatu Temple

There is nothing that says romance better than a sunset. Standing at the temple, with a drink in hand, staring out at the vast sea and setting sun will surely be a fond memory.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bn5BMO1FVE1/

Have a candle-lit dinner at Swept Away Restaurant (The Samaya Ubud)

Like a scene from a movie, Swept Away Restaurant offers you a candle-lit dinner by the river. A six course menu and your pick of wine tops off the experience.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B1GeDNnHrh1/

Visit The Gates of Heaven at Lempuyang Temple

If you want to get some amazing snapshots for your honeymoon photo album, this is where you’ll get them. The temple is located in the East of Bali, just over 2 hours away from Ubud. There are also other temples inside, which makes for a day of sightseeing and exploring.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BxaFWdPAskb/

Stroll through Balai Gili

The ‘water palace’ garden is sure to leave you in awe. You can have a romantic picnic and watch the fish in the water, then take a walk through the garden and admire the scenery.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B0tEpovI9ye/

Take a dip at one of the many waterfalls

Bali is home to a multitude of waterfalls, there are so many to choose from; there is the Tegenungan waterfall, the Git Git Waterfall, and the Sekumpul Waterfall, to name a few. Swimming seems so much more romantic and adventurous when there is a waterfall involved.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B3A0tm8BWEp/

Explore the Rice Terraces

It may not sound like much, but when you finally catch a glimpse of the rice fields you will be in awe of its beauty. You can walk through the steep rice fields and build up an appetite, then have some lunch and continue staring in admiration.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B4_kfKqHh6u/

Get on top of the world at the Kamandalu Swing

Unforgettable views and a sense of adventure and excitement is what you’ll get from visiting the Kamandalu Swing. While the most of the other famous swings in Bali only take one person at a time, this tandem swing accommodates two people which makes it the perfect one for a honeymoon activity. It has also become one of the top Instagram spots in Bali, if you’re looking to add some amazing shots to your feed.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B26n0ENHI-C/

Go horseback riding on the beach

You can have a 2 hour long horseback ride on the beach with The Bali Equestrian Centre. Along the way you’ll see not only the beach, but also various temples and villages and you may even cross a creek or two. You’ll be escorted by an expert.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BzNqIetFToU/

Go scuba diving or snorkeling

There are quite a few locations where you could go snorkeling or scuba diving, but at Tulamben you can see a US liberty Ship Wreck and catch a glimpse of the coral fish at the same time. History and adventure all in go.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BW6z1sAF0Me/

Visit the Marigold Fields

The marigold is a significant part of culture in Bali. Its striking colour is commonly associated with the Supreme Balinese God. You can pay a visit to the marigold fields and enjoy the view. This is yet another destination in Bali that makes for a great photo opportunity too.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BlCjlBHlpl1/

Image:Pexels

In Advice

How to keep your (soon-to-be) family-in-law happy

November 29, 2019 No Comments

So you’re engaged, and although it’s an exciting and thrilling time for both you and your significant other, conflict is bound to arise, often in the form of your soon-to-be family-in-law. Some cases may be worse than others, but we’d like to help you lessen the load. Read on for some practical tips and thoughts on how to keep them happy, and, appropriately involved.

Acceptance

First of all, you need to make peace with the fact that your wedding planning journey will come with a fair share of stress, drama and mishaps, but all of this could be managed easily by not stressing about the things you cannot change. That goes for the family you’re marrying into as well. If you’ve known the person you’re marrying for a good amount of time, you probably know their family too – including their habits and preferences. Just because you’re getting married doesn’t mean those things will change, so make it easier for yourself by making peace with it – you’d want your S.O to do the same for you.

You marry the family, too.

That said, your new spouse’s family is accepting a new member into theirs, as your family is too, so be mindful about including them in the planning process. Your wedding is a celebration of not only two people coming together, but two families uniting, so they need to feel that their opinions matter too. This doesn’t mean that you have to take every suggestion they make to heart, but they’ll feel much more included if you make an effort to hear them out and make some compromises.

Take a stand

Sometimes, keeping the peace means taking a stand. It’s extremely difficult to avoid hurting the feelings of someone who simply wants to help, but sometimes their need to help is greater than your need for it. Don’t allow yourself to get into a situation too deep before realising that you’re allowing things to happen that will ultimately make you unhappy. Say no when you need to, but explain your feelings and reasoning behind it so that a mutual understanding can be reached.

Same page

You and your S.O absolutely need to be on the same page when it comes to making the decisions in your planning process. This will allow you to adequately explain your reasoning to your families, without throwing anyone under the bus. However, if your parents are paying for some parts of the wedding, you need to be on the same page with them too. Be open about what you want, your visions and expectations to avoid unnecessary conflict, especially if you’re not the one paying for it.

Lessen the load

Just because it’s your wedding doesn’t mean you have to plan, take care of and do everything. Make your vision clear and allow your mother-in-law, father-in-law or whoever-in-law to help you out with making calls, DIY projects, collections or whatever it is you may need. This will allow them to feel involved, but not in an overwhelming way where they have the ability to make decisions for you. However, looking at the other side of the spectrum could be just as tricky. Maybe your father-in-law is great at building things with his hands, but up until now you haven’t been getting along that well. Take the plunge and ask him for help with your DIY projects – it might be the starting point for the relationship you’ve been looking for.

Image: Pexels

In Food

Edible wedding favours

November 11, 2019 No Comments

Food, glorious food. It is one of the few things that can bring us all together. At the end of the night, sometimes all someone wants is a midnight snack.

When planning your wedding favours, why not go for something edible? Edible wedding favours are great because they can be affordable and easily diy’ed. Another added bonus is that your guests can reuse the containers the gifts come in or simply keep them as mementos.

Treat your guests with something to nibble on with one of these favourites.

Bubbly:

A takeaway:

Honey:

Whiskey:

Tea:

Vodka:

Popcorn:

Jam:

Donuts:

Nuts:

Image: Unsplash

In Accessories

How to incorporate black into your wedding

October 29, 2019 No Comments

Black is not just a colour for mourning. For decades, white has been synonymous with weddings for its symbolism of purity. White is traditionally expected. However, while many are afraid of including this dark-hued colour in weddings, black can actually bring much class and sophistication to your big day. Take a walk on the dark side and think of bringing this dark tone into your wedding.

Here are a few way to incorporate black into your wedding that won’t look morbid.

Invites:

https://www.instagram.com/p/BtY7CIRB_VB/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

The order of events:

https://www.instagram.com/p/BnHRHWTBl-C/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Your dress:

https://www.instagram.com/p/B4BE3UaB4F0/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

All-black suit:

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bwnb-VLlKmq/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Your bouquet:

https://www.instagram.com/p/Be5psRSDAKV/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Wedding arch:

https://www.instagram.com/p/ByfsMh8Icvh/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Black tables:

https://www.instagram.com/p/B4BLZ5tApR3/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Seating:

https://www.instagram.com/p/Be6R4rajYub/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Candles:

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

Escort cards:

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

Napkins:

https://www.instagram.com/p/B2O0ueNhGmN/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Plating:

https://www.instagram.com/p/B1966ucD3FR/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Your cake:

https://www.instagram.com/p/B36Z3gvFu53/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Image: Unsplash

In Do's And Don'ts

How to keep calm on your wedding day

October 16, 2019 No Comments

The days leading up to your wedding can be super stressful and the day itself quite emotional. Don’t let the best day of your life be spoiled by feelings of anxiety or exhaustion. Here are some helpful tips on how to keep the joyful experience this special day is meant to be.

– The week before, take a few minutes each day and write down things you are grateful for. Journaling can be very therapeutic and serve as a reminder of how blessed you are for the people around you. Whether it be the one you’re marrying, the friends and family that support you or this exciting new adventure that lies ahead, jot it down and reflect on it.

– There’s a saying that goes: “Don’t sweat the petty stuff and don’t pet the sweaty stuff.” That’s about as perfect a saying you can get for a wedding. Remember the reason you are getting married: You have found the person you love with all your heart and you want to share it with people that are close to you. So when those little emergencies come, and they will, take a deep breath, smile and let the bridesmaids handle it.

– Get enough sleep the week before. Make sure you sleep well. Essential oils like lavender and jasmine might help you drift off to dreamland with a smile on your face. You will be quite busy those last few days, but you will want to feel rested and energetic at the wedding.

– Water is life. Taking a long, tranquil bath or shower the morning of your wedding will let the world’s worries flow away. Light some scented candles and make it your me-time where no one may bother you. Relax and focus on your breathing while soaking in the bubbles.

– It might sound like a good time to get hammered at the party but in truth, you will regret getting crazy drunk on your wedding and especially being hungover on your honeymoon. Having a good time at this joyous celebration is important, but overdoing it might lead you to make a mess of things. You want to remember your special day with grace for the rest of your life.

Image: Unsplash

In Venues

5 Amazing SA wedding venues

October 16, 2019 No Comments

Where you get married is an integral part of the big day. You want your surroundings to be absolutely stunning and the photos to be a beautiful reminder of the day. We found these spectacular, slightly off-the-beaten-track venues to keep in mind as you go on the search of the perfect space.

Granny Mouse Country House

Considered one of the most romantic venues in the KwaZulu Natal Midlands, the Granny Mouse is a sight to see. The chapel has panoramic views over the Caversham Valley and is the perfect combination of countryside and luxury. It has an old time charm to it, and is far away from the hustle and bustle of everyday city life.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B29JoPCJrg7/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

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

Lord Milner Hotel

This venue is in a somewhat obscure place of the country, but trust us, you want to go there. On the fringe of the Karoo, the hotel is one of those rare places that takes you back in time and makes you feel like you’re not even in this century. Named after Lord Alfred Milner, the hotel is also a heritage site and was completed in 1899, and shortly thereafter served as the Headquarters of the Cape Western Command.

Forest Hall Estate

If you want a fairy tale inspired venue, this place is for you. Situated outside of Plettenberg Bay along the Garden Route, the venue is one with nature and has an enchanted forest look. Almost no need for expensive decor, as nature is your backdrop!

https://www.instagram.com/p/BxIBrCLH2BB/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/BpBnD6XH7fK/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Oranje Gasteplaas

It’s not news that Clarens in the Eastern Free State is arguably the view-mecca of the inland. Nestled in the Maluti mountains, you get the veld atmosphere without having to sacrifice class. Think open green fields, cattle grazing and mountainous peaks popping up all around.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BSOK0l6F9NS/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/BnZD_4LgYXl/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Flycatcher Castle

This awe inspiring structure is on the outskirts of Graskop towards God’s Window in Mpumalanga. Set in the style of a 17th century Italian castle, the venue is an experience in itself. The castle was constructed using hand picked relics and works of art to create a magnificent masterpiece set in one of the most beautiful areas of the country.

Picture: Matjiesfontein.com

In Fashion

Trending in wedding fashion: personalised bridal jackets

October 15, 2019 No Comments

Accessories are the final cherry on top of the cake. From jewellery to hair accessories, there are a host of additions that can be made to complete your final bridal look.

Personalised bridal jackets have been trending for a few years now, most famously worn by Kim Kardashian West and Kanye West.

Bridal jackets are typically leather or denim jackets adorned with personalised wedding script. Newlyweds wear these jackets on their wedding evening and as a bonus can keep it for decades to come. Another bonus is that it is easily DIY-able.

Here are a few bridal jackets to inspire you on your big day:

Crew love:

Dress your bridal party in matching jackets to show off your squad.

Just married:

Shout out you newlywed status with these jackets.

Wifey:

You’ve got a new title now, and everyone can read it off your back.

Till death:

Have a physical reminder of your vows by emblazoning ’til death” on your bridal jacket.

Babe:

Not one for official titles? Go with a cute nickname like ‘babe’.

Wife of the party:

Remind everyone that it’s your day with a jacket screaming ‘wife of the party’, or ‘bride’.

Get sappy:

Once you’ve found your person, everything falls into place. Let them know how you feel with a jacket with ‘it was always you’ written across it, or let them know you’ve found your happily ever after.

Surnames:

Have your surnames emblazoned on your jackets for a personalised touch.

Picture: Instagram / Kim Kardashian

In News

Bride has symbolic solo photoshoot after cancelling wedding

October 15, 2019 No Comments

An American bride’s story has gone viral on social media after she cancelled her wedding but still had her wedding photoshoot. Her story has inspired many and has become an important symbol for choosing your own happiness first.

Chandley Brelsford from Reno, Nevada, took to Facebook to write a moving message that explains why she cancelled her June 8 wedding. Three weeks before her big day, she realised that she was not happy and that her fiancé was not the right man for her.

“The man I had fallen in love with was not the man I could call my husband. And it has shaken my character to its very core.” she writes. “The life I so desperately wanted to live with him was never going to exist. Our marriage would not be peaceful, supportive, and loving and it took 4 years for me to realize that this man was not right for me.”

When she first began dating her partner, she feel like the most special woman in the world. She viewed the relationship through rose-tinted glasses, ignoring multiple warning signs. She began making many sacrifices and dedicated most of her time to making the relationship work.

“I started my freshman year of college in Reno, but drove back to Sacramento every weekend to see him. He had told me he wouldn’t do long-distance, so I kept jobs close to his home and worked on the weekends. Every week, I would go to class and finish all my homework in Reno, then drive 2.5 hours over the mountains to work my shifts and see him. I would clean his home and buy our groceries. I would meal prep all our lunches for the week as well as any miscellaneous tasks that he asked of me. He would become very angry if I forgot little things, so I tried my best to do everything to his specifications. I wanted to prove how serious I was.”

She began walking on eggshells, dedicating every free moment to making sure her partner would not get mad at her. Brelsford also isolated herself from her friends, and gave up many of her dreams to accompany his wishes.

Their engagement was a happy moment, one she thought would improve things. However, nothing changed.

“My life was so perfect on the outside, but inside the depression was beginning to consume me.”

She decided to cancel the wedding after a particularly large fight broke out that took her to a dark place.

On the date that she was meant to get married, she put on her wedding dress and had her pre-scheduled wedding photoshoot by herself, in a symbol of choosing herself.

She appears much more happy and confident.
Credit: Facebook / Chandley Brelsford

“To all the women out there, no one is worth sacrificing what you hold dear. It doesn’t matter if he is good-looking or willing to spend money on you or promises you the whole world; if he does not show you respect now, then he never will. Love is blind.”

“Every person is deserving of a love that sets their soul on fire, as well as provides a place to rest when weary. This world is harsh sometimes, so hold onto those who are kind to you. For now, I will be focusing on myself, my goals, my faith, and my family and friends. I might be ready to get married again… some day, but not today.”

Read her inspiring message here:

Picture: Facebook / Chandley Brelsford