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    In Advice

    7 quirky wedding ideas perfect for summer

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    Make your big day a fun and festive affair with exciting and thoughtful quirky wedding ideas perfect for a beautiful summer’s day!

    1. A FLOWER WALL

    A flower wall can create a stunning fixture for your guests to take photographs. Make sure to use bright summer blooms to suit your theme.

    2. OUTDOOR GAMES

     

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    A post shared by Larkspur Lodge (@larkspurlodge)

    Let your guests bring out their inner child with fun outdoor games during the wedding reception. See our favourites here.

    3. DRINK INFUSIONS

    There’s nothing like fresh fruit infusions to quench your thirst under the hot sun. Set up a station with fresh and summery drink infusions where guests can fill up a glass every now and then.

    4. FESTIVAL VIBES

    Go full carnival for your big day with mini rides, food stalls and games your guests can take part in.

    5.  PICNIC TIME

    If you plan on having an outdoor wedding, set up picnic blankets and pillows for guests to relax on the lawns.

    6. BONFIRE BRAAI

    Following the picnic theme, light a bonfire or braai as the evening gets cooler for your loved ones to socialise around, marshmallows included!

    7. ICE CREAM STATION OR NAME CARDS

     

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    A post shared by PartySlate.com (@partyslate)

    Spoil your guests with yummy frozen scoops of ice cream at an ice cream station to keep cool during your big day.

    ALSO SEE: Nail your wedding speech

    Nail your wedding speech

    Feature image: Unsplash

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    In Sponsored

    South Africans experience stress levels that make it difficult to cope – survey

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    An international survey has shown that over 70 percent of South Africans have faced stress levels that make it difficult to cope with life’s demands and more than half have reported feeling so stressed that they were unable to attend work over the last year.

    The Ipsos World Mental Health survey, based on three years of data from more than 23 000 participants across 31 countries, concentrated on the impacts of stress and depression on daily functioning. It revealed that stress is significantly affecting the workforce in South Africa.

    Meanwhile, a separate report from UNICEF has revealed that at least 60 percent of young South Africans have required mental health assistance in the past year. Persistent obstacles highlighted include limited family discussions and uncertainty about where to seek aid.

    South Africa ranks among the highest globally in mental health disorders due to factors such as poverty, unemployment, social and political unrest, and trauma due to exposure from violence and abuse. Access to mental health professionals and resources are also limited.

    Health expert Vanessa Ascencao emphasised the importance of mental health for overall well-being, noting that mental illness has been shown to impact physical health, relationships, livelihoods and quality of life, particularly among young people. She called on both the government and South Africans to prioritise mental health as a crucial component of overall health.

    “Make mental health a priority through self-care practices like regular exercise, healthy eating, connecting with loved ones and adopting relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and mindfulness. Spend time in nature as it’s a powerful antidote to stress. If you’re managing a mental illness, stick to your treatment plan, identify triggers, and seek help when necessary,” said Ascencao.

    “In the midst of life’s many challenges, establishing a support network and adopting strategies to manage obstacles are crucial for emotional balance and resilience. Consider incorporating high-quality, natural stress relief solutions such as Rescue Gummies, which contains five unique Bach flower essences developed by Dr Edward Bach in the 1930s to assist in coping with emotional overwhelm,” Ascencao added.

    Dr Edward Bach, a renowned physician and homeopath, advocated for a holistic approach to health, emphasizing the importance of nurturing both the mind and body. He dedicated his life to studying the therapeutic properties of flowers and plants as powerful tools for enhancing emotional well-being.

    “Research shows that chewing can result in a significant reduction in anxiety. The Rescue Gummies are non-habit forming, delicious, easy to take on the go, vegan-friendly, gluten-free and contain no artificial flavours, sweeteners or synthetic dyes,” Ascencao said. 

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    In Advice

    5 ways to honour lost loved ones on your big day

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    Losing a family member is heartbreaking – and when it comes to getting married, their absence is often amplified. Acknowledging these special loved ones can become overwhelming, especially when trying to maintain a celebratory atmosphere throughout your day.

    Fortunately, weddings are sentimental occasions, leaving room for a myriad of ways to acknowledge those dearly departed. The trick is to strike a balance – honouring loved ones without turning your big day into a memorial service. Whether the gesture be small and personalised or open and public, there is always a tasteful way to do it.

    Here are five simple and subtle ways to remember someone passed at your wedding:

    Attach a small photo to your bouquet: This is particularly meaningful for a bride who has lost her father – a highly personal yet subtle gesture that is the perfect little reminder that your dad is walking you down the aisle in spirit.

     

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    A post shared by Wedding Architect (@crystalevents_)

    Incorporate old fabric into your suit or wedding gown: Keep the spirit of your lost loved ones close by – literally. Use mom’s wedding dress to create your own gown, or transform one of dad’s old ties into a trendy pocket square.

     

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    A post shared by Kateryna Olek (@olekkateryna_atelier) on

    Reserve a seat at the ceremony: Of course nothing compares to having your loved ones physically by your side but reserving them a seat while you say your “I dos” can be a special reminder of their irreplaceable presence. Mark their seat with a favorite flower or sentimental possession.

     

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    Set up a photo display: This is a great option for couples who want to keep their tribute lighthearted. It avoids creating a heavy atmosphere for guests as family members can step aside to acknowledge deceased family members in private.

     

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    A post shared by Dapper Vintage Rentals (@dappervintagerentals) on

    Dedicate a song: Whether it is your first dance or just a casual slot on the playlist, dedicate a song to someone no longer around. Levels of discretion can be altered to your personal taste here; make a grand gesture with an announcement or toast or simply appreciate the special moment to yourself.

     

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    A post shared by Daniel Powęska (@daniel.poweska_photography) on

    Picture: Unsplash

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    wedding speech
    In Advice

    Nail your wedding speech

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    In Competitions

    Musgrave Pink Gin Wedding Competition  

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    Musgrave Pink Gin is crafted for life’s most meaningful moments. Infused with rose water and a blend of 12 signature botanicals, this elegant pink gin is celebrated for its delicate floral notes, smooth finish, and refined character - making it a beautiful choice for modern celebrations, intimate gatherings, and unforgettable weddings.  

    To celebrate love and the art of thoughtful wedding details, Musgrave Pink Gin is offering couples the opportunity to win a curated Musgrave Pink Gin wedding prize. Designed to elevate your special day, the prize includes Musgrave Pink Gin 50 ml bottles, perfect as stylish guest gifts or as part of a beautifully curated welcome drink experience.  

    How to enter: 

    Contact us on Facebook or Instagram (@musgravespirits) by sending your name and contact details, your wedding venue name, and a short version of your love story.  

    Competition rules: 

    The competition is open to South African residents aged 18 years and older. No alcohol may be sold or supplied to persons under the age of 18. Couples will be notified via the contact details provided. Prizes are not transferable and may not be exchanged for cash. Limited to 120 guests.  

    Celebrate beautifully. 
    Celebrate responsibly. 
    Musgrave Pink Gin - Explore the Moment.  

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    wedding canape
    In Food

    Pork and mushroom vol-au-vents for the perfect wedding canapés

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    Looking for the perfect cocktail-hour starter while you and your new spouse step away for your photoshoot? These pork-and-mushroom vol-au-vents are an elegant wedding canapé option that keeps guests satisfied and the celebration flowing.

    Serves: 4
    Prep Time: 45 minutes
    Cooking Time: 3.5 hours
    Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes

    Ingredients

    Pork filling
    • 200 g boneless, skinless pork shoulder
    • 3 garlic cloves, finely grated
    • 2 tsp fresh thyme
    • 1 tsp salt
    • 1 tsp pepper
    • 1/2 tsp nutmeg
    • 1 tbsp olive oil
    • 1 cup chicken stock
    • 100 g brown mushrooms, finely chopped
    • 1 tbsp brandy
    • 1/2 cup cream
    • 30 g grated Parmesan

    Vol-au-vent cases

    • 2 x 400 g rolls of frozen puff pastry, thawed
    • 2 tbsp olive oil
    • 1 egg yolk
    • 1 tbsp milk

    Bacon crumble

    • 100 g streaky bacon

    You’ll need

    • 1 x 4 cm diameter cookie cutter
    • 1 x 1.5 cm diameter cookie cutter
    • 1 tbsp chopped chives to serve

    Method

    Pork filling

    1. Preheat the oven to 180ºC.
    2. Place the pork shoulder into a deep oven tray. Mix the garlic, thyme, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and olive oil in a small bowl. Rub this spice mixture all over the pork and pour the chicken stock into the tray. Cover the tray with foil and place into the oven.
    3. Roast the pork for 3 hours, or until pull-apart tender.
    4. When the pork is roasted, remove it from the oven, pour the juices into a jug, and reserve. Use two forks to shred the pork.
    5. Heat a medium-sized saucepan and add the olive oil. Add the chopped mushrooms and fry until browned and caramelised.
    6. Deglaze the pan with the brandy and cook for 1 minute. Add the roasting juices to the mushrooms and bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and add the cream.
    7. Add the Parmesan cheese and simmer for about 3 minutes, then add the shredded pork and heat through. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.

    Vol au vent cases

    1. Line a baking tray with baking paper.
    2. Unroll one roll of pastry and leave it on the plastic it was rolled in. Using the 4 cm cookie cutter, cut out 25 circles (or as many as it yields), then place these pastry circles upside down on the prepared baking sheet.
    3. Beat the egg yolk and milk together, and then brush the circles with this mixture – take care not to brush too close to or around the sides of the circles, as this can cause the pastry not to rise properly.
    4. Unroll the second sheet of pastry and keep it on the plastic it was rolled in; cut the same amount of circles. You will end up with a doughnut-shaped ring of pastry.
    5. Lift these, turn them upside down and place them on top of the original circles that you have already egg washed. This will form the sides of your ring-shaped piece of pastry.
    6. Using a fork, prick the bottom pastry in the centre hole of the ring layer to prevent it from puffin up during baking. Brush the top of the ring circles with egg wash, but again, be careful not to get it on the sides, otherwise, your vol-au-vents may not rise properly.
    7. Note: The circles that were removed from the centre of the pastry rings, as well as any leftover pastry, can be egg washed and cooked separately. The round centre pieces can serve as ‘hats’ for the vol-au-vents, should you choose to use them.
    8. Place the tray into the oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the vol-au-vents are well-risen and golden. Remove the pastry cases from the oven and allow them to cool.

    Bacon crumble

    1. Turn the oven to the grill setting. Lay the bacon on a baking sheet and place it into the oven for 8 to 10 minutes to cook until crispy. Alternatively, cook in an air fryer. Let it cool slightly, then chop to a fine crumb.

    To assemble

    1. Add 1 to 2 teaspoons of the pork and mushroom mixture to each vol-au-vent to fill. Sprinkle bacon crumbs over the top of each vol-au-vent and garnish with chopped chives. Serve immediately.
    Recipe and feature image: SA Pork 
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    valentine's day gift
    In Dates

    Valentine’s Day gift ideas for under R460

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    Finding the perfect Valentine’s Day gift doesn’t have to mean stretching your budget. Thoughtful gestures often matter far more than price tags. This curated guide focuses on creative and meaningful Valentine’s gift ideas — all under R460.

    If you’re searching for a budget-friendly Valentine’s Day gift that feels personal, memorable, and heartfelt, these wallet-smart ideas will help you make the day special while keeping your finances firmly in check.

    Woolworths

    Babylonstoren

    Bash

    Yuppiechef

    Donkey Long Tong

     

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    destination wedding
    In Destination

    How to make a destination wedding easy on your guests

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    There are many aspects of a destination wedding you should consider when planning one. Yes, it is your big day. You should be allowed the final say in what goes down over this period. Just remember, though, that the celebratory atmosphere of your wedding does depend, in part, on your guests having a good experience. They have given up part of their time, travelled a few miles, and spent quite a bit of money, to be there for you. So here’s some advice on how to make your destination wedding easier and more enjoyable for your guests.

    Firstly, long before you do anything else, tell everyone about your plans to tie the knot overseas. Those you wish to invite need time to schedule the trip, and some might not be able to make it due to financial issues or prior engagements. It would be better if they declined long before you did the seating arrangements or decided who will be in the bridal party.

    Now, once you know who’s definitely coming, don’t leave them hanging with regard to transport, directions and accommodation. Research what group rates are available for flights as well as hotel rooms. Definitely send them directions to the main venue, and in case transport might be difficult for them, organising a shuttle service would be a great favour.

    Once your guests have arrived, make them feel welcome. A lovely little note left in plain sight on the bedspread or dressing table is always a good idea. A tiny gift, perhaps a small confection particular to the country you’re getting married in, would also go down well. In addition, you should probably give them products essential in dealing with that country’s climate and natural surroundings. Bug spray and sunscreen are good ideas if you’re tying the knot outdoors in the baking heat of a tropical paradise.

    Lastly, while the wedding is the reason they came, it should not be the only activity on the weekend schedule. Organise something special for your guests, maybe a fun brunch or dinner at a nearby venue. This will be a good chance for your friends and family to touch base and catch up. After all, you do want all the special people in your life to get to know each other, and to get along, don’t you?

    ALSO SEE: How to pack for your honeymoon

    How to pack for your honeymoon

    Feature image: Pexels

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    partner involved
    In Guys

    5 tips to get your partner involved in the wedding planning

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    You’ve had the big engagement and decided on a date – now it’s time to get down to the planning but your partner doesn’t seem keen on contributing. Wedding planning can be stressful enough without having a partner who is not interested in helping out, so we’ve put together these five tips to get your partner involved in planning your big day together.

    1. FROM THE GET-GO

    Make sure you are both discussing wedding options from the start. You don’t want to get ahead without your partner and leave them behind, only to want their input later on.

    2. BE OPEN MINDED

    Your partner may have some strange ideas, but try not to brush them off harshly, as you want them to continue making contributions. If you don’t like something, be gentle and explain why.

    3. GET HANDS-ON

    If there are certain areas that you know your partner will be interested in, such as the music, food or transport, then hand over those tasks, making sure you are both on the same page when it comes to what you want.

    4. ASK FOR HELP

    If you’re struggling to juggle all of the invitations, nagging family members and bookings, ask your partner if they can take on some of the tasks, or that you work on them together to ease the pressure.

    5. JUST BE HONEST

    Tell your partner that you want their input, after all, you both decided to have a wedding. Having open communication will help you to express how you feel as well as finding out what your partner wants.

    ALSO SEE: 5 ways to avoid a family takeover at your wedding

    5 ways to avoid a family takeover at your wedding

    Feature image: Priscilla du Preez/Unsplash

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    family takeover
    In Advice

    5 ways to avoid a family takeover at your wedding

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    Letting your family help out with all the wedding planning can be fun, exciting, and a relief. But they can often become too involved and start taking over, causing unnecessary drama and stress before the big day. It’s important to set some boundaries while still letting your loved ones know that their help is appreciated, which is why we’ve come up with simple solutions to getting everyone involved without it turning into a family takeover,

    1. KEEP IT SPECIFIC

    Assign your family members certain tasks to complete, making sure they keep you informed with their progress. This can be anything from making invitations to table decorations, leaving you to sort out the bigger decisions.

    2. COMMUNICATION

    Keep in contact with your family about your decisions and the progress of the wedding planning. This will allow them to feel like they are a part of it all, and that you value their opinion. It’s also important to speak up when you are unhappy, but approach it in a calm and gentle way.

    3. COMPROMISE

    If your parents are footing some of the bill, they’ll want to have a say in some of the arrangements. Welcome their ideas, but also explain your and your fiancée’s vision for your wedding before you get started.

    4. GET YOUR WEDDING PLANNER INVOLVED

    If you’re feeling overwhelmed with pressure from all sides, get your wedding planner to step in and act as a buffer between you and your family. This will also give them the opportunity to update everyone on the wedding progress and what plans are in place to achieve your vision.

    5. OFF LIMITS

    Keep certain aspects of the wedding planning decisions off limits. This doesn’t mean you can’t involve your family or keep them in the loop, but be strictly clear that it is for you to decide. This can be about your guest list, the dress, or wedding cake. To counter any protests, give your family something they are passionate about, such as the catering or wedding stationery.

    ALSO SEE: Relaxing bachelorette party ideas for the chilled bride

    Relaxing bachelorette party ideas for the chilled bride

    Image: Unsplash

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