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    In Engagements

    Practical tips to find your perfect wedding gown

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    Most women know what style of wedding dress they want. But have you considered the practicalities of finding your dream frock that have nothing to do with how it looks? Renowned local dress designer Janita Toerien lets us in on the little things you may overlook when shopping for your dress.

    WEAR THE RIGHT UNDERWEAR
    You head into the changing area with a pile of gorgeous dresses, you try on the first one and it is just so… anti-climactic. Why doesn’t it look like you imagined? Well, for one, you’re wearing a bright blue thong that throws off the whole look. Wear the right underwear so the G-string doesn’t make a shadow on the dress or you stress about panties that cut into your bum, says Janita. Fitting consultants won’t judge you on your granny panties or boy shorts! Wearing undies that match your skin tone and shape, and suck in where necessary, help smooth out the silhouette so you can see exactly how the dress is meant to fit.

    FACTOR IN WHERE YOU’RE GETTING MARRIED
    Janita says this is often forgotten: Is the dress practical for your wedding? Consider the physical aspects of where you’re getting married and how your dress will fit into that. For example, a heavy lace-trimmed train and veil will pick up little twigs and dirt as you walk down the aisle of a forest wedding. Or a heavy duchess satin dress will be uncomfortable hot at a midday beach wedding. Choose a dress in the style you love, but that will still allow you to be as comfortable as possible.

    THINK ABOUT THE GIRLS
    Don’t overlook the importance of your boobs: Too much cleavage can distract from your overall look; too covered up can look matronly, not to mention ensuring there’s no accidental spillage. Big busts always look great in a lower neckline, Janita says, but not too low – just enough to open up the chest and shoulder area. This can be a V-neck, off-the-shoulder or scooped neckline. But stay away from strapless, she pleads: “I could write a whole page about why, but for now just heed my advice.” For our flatter-chested sisters, your choices are much wider, but if you want your bust to appear larger, raise the neckline of the dress, she says. Whether it’s a halterneck, V-neck, boat or round neck, simply lift that line a few centimetres.

    WALK, SIT, CROUCH, BEND, DANCE!
    Standing in front of a mirror for 10 minutes isn’t going to give you the full effect of how a dress really wears. Does the top slip down? Do the straps fall off your shoulders? Does the bodice cut into your stomach when you sit? Do you trip on the hem? Get a feel for the dress by sitting, crouching, hugging your mom and busting out a move with your hands in the air. If at any point you have to readjust it, imagine doing that a couple of hundred times on the big day. If it can be fixed with alterations, get them done. If not, it’s probably best to move on.

    ASK ABOUT FABRICS
    Will it crease badly? Show sweat patches? Make you itchy? Don’t assume all dresses are made equal. Every kind of fabric has its own characteristics, Janita says, so a dress designer worth their salt will take the time to explain the different options and their pros and cons. Take bride fabric shopping to discuss exactly this. Does the fabric feel good on her skin? Does she perspire easily when under stress or does she have sensitive skin? These are all things to take into consideration.

    BUY FOR YOUR CURRENT SIZE, NOT YOUR IDEAL SIZE
    Many brides go on a weight-loss mission before the wedding. If you’re one of them, it’s best to try lose the weight (or close enough) before you start shopping around. You never know if you’re going to lose the weight in time, so don’t buy around what might happen. The last thing you want is an ill-fitting dress on your big day. It’s much easier to take a dress in with alterations than it is to let out, with much less risk of losing the dress completely.

    CLOSE YOUR CIRCLE
    What dress-shopping mistakes does Janita see brides making all the time?
    “They bring too many people with them, and do far too much shopping. First rule: when you start shopping, make sure you don’t want to have any more than three brides in your bridal party. Choose only two or three designers/boutiques to visit, and if you feel exhausted and overwhelmed at some point, take a step back, regroup and really think about what you want – ignore everyone else’s opinions.”

    EMERGENCY KIT:
    What should you pack for the day of the wedding?
    • Needle and thread
    • Double-sided tape
    • A pair of good scissors (Cut that train off if it gets in the way of dancing! Janita says)

    ALSO SEE: High-neck wedding dresses we love

    High-neck wedding dresses we love

    Written by Andrea Robertson for Wedding Etc. Summer 2019

    Feature image: Pexels

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    wedding content creator
    In Advice

    The rise of wedding content creators

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    Once upon a time, your wedding memories lived in a carefully curated album and a highlight video you’d eagerly wait weeks to receive. Today? Your wedding day can live online before the last glass of champagne is poured. Enter the wedding content creator — the industry’s newest (and fastest-growing) must-have.

    From TikTok-worthy transitions to candid, blink-and-you’ll-miss-it moments, this new wave of creatives is reshaping how couples experience and remember their big day. And no, it’s not just for influencers.

    What is a wedding content creator?

    A wedding content creator is a professional hired to capture your day through a social media lens. Think vertical videos, iPhone footage, behind-the-scenes snippets, and real-time storytelling.

    Unlike traditional photographers or videographers, their focus isn’t editorial perfection; it’s immediacy and authenticity. They’re there for the in-between moments: the laughter before you walk down the aisle, the outfit changes, the dance floor chaos, the quiet glances no one else notices.

    In short, they document what your guests would have posted — but better.

    Not a replacement, though

    Let’s get one thing straight: wedding content creators are not here to replace photographers or videographers.

    Your photographer captures timeless, frame-worthy images. Your videographer crafts a cinematic narrative. A content creator, on the other hand, fills in the gaps by delivering raw, unfiltered moments that feel real and deeply personal.

    It’s less about choosing one over the other, and more about building a dream team that captures your day from every angle.

    Why wedding content creators are trending

    The social media shift

    Weddings have become inherently social. From proposal announcements to “get ready with me” reels, couples are documenting every step of their journey.

    Even those who wouldn’t consider themselves content creators are now thinking in terms of shareable moments.

    And with platforms prioritising short-form video, having someone who understands trends, timing, and storytelling is invaluable.

    Instant gratification is everything

    One of the biggest appeals? Speed.

    Instead of waiting weeks (or months), couples can receive content within 24 to 48 hours. That means:

    • Posting your first wedding reel while the excitement is still fresh

    • Reliving moments almost instantly

    • Sharing highlights with guests (and those who couldn’t attend) in real time

    The beauty of the unscripted

    There’s something undeniably special about the moments that aren’t planned.

    These are the memories that often mean the most — the ones you didn’t even realise were happening.

    The rise of unplugged weddings

    More couples are opting for unplugged ceremonies, asking guests to put their phones away and be fully present.

    But that doesn’t mean missing out on candid content.

    A wedding content creator ensures everything is still captured without a sea of phones in your aisle photos.

    Is it worth it?

    The short answer? It depends on how you want to remember your wedding.

    If you love the idea of:

    • Reliving your day instantly

    • Having content ready to share

    • Capturing candid, unfiltered moments

    • Telling a more complete story

    …then a wedding content creator might just be your favourite vendor.

    Even for couples who aren’t active on social media, the appeal lies in access — having a bank of real, emotional, beautifully imperfect moments to look back on.

    ALSO SEE: Get creative with your wedding dress after the big day

    Get creative with your wedding dress after the big day

    Feature image: Jonathan Borba/Pexels

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    bachelorette party
    In Bachelorette Party

    The Hen Commandments: Dos and don’ts for planning the bachelorette party

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    Have you been tasked with arranging the all-important bachelorette party? Before you break out in hives because of the sheer immensity of the situation, read our Hen Commandments. This dos and don’ts list will ensure you throw a party that will leave the bride glowing with happiness – not fuming with anger.

    #1 Thou shalt be organised

    Set a day way in advance and give everyone enough time to arrange their lives, plan and be there (with bells on) for the bride.

    #2 Thou shalt organise a night the bride wants

    And not what you want… If the bride is a Champagne and strawberries kind of lady, don’t arrange a craft-beer tasting and hot-dog day. Or if she loves to chug back the brew, don’t get everyone together for a high tea. Be creative about your theme and activities, and make sure they reflect the bride’s personality.

    #3 Thou shalt never make the bride feel awkward

    It might be a lot of fun to dress the bride up like Borat and make her dance at a traffic light, but the whole reason for the hen party is for her to stop fretting about the wedding for a second and have a blast. You don’t want her dying of embarrassment and wishing she was folding 700 paper frogs with Aunt Margaret instead.

    #4 Thou shalt not assume the bride wants a stripper

    It’s not a bachelorette bash without some strippers! Ever heard that gem? It’s rubbish, ladies. It can leave some conservative brides in tears. Find other ways to spend the money, unless your bride has specifically requested one (or three).

    #5 Thou shalt take others’ budgets into account

    Nobody wants to feel pressured to spend more than they can afford on a night out or a weekend away. Before you make the plans, get an idea of what everyone is willing to spend on the party, and then set a budget.

    #6 Thou shalt discuss the list with the bride

    You can keep everything else a surprise, but not the guest list. If you leave out someone important, the bride will have to deal with the consequences.

    #7 Thou shalt involve others

    Yes, you might be the maid of honour and the bride’s BFF, but that’s not to say no one else can get involved in the planning. Be open to ideas and offers of help, and delegate where possible.

    #8 Thou shalt relax and enjoy thyself

    Being the person in charge can be stressful, but if you’re not enjoying yourself, neither will anyone else. Relax and let the party come together.

    #9 Thou shalt get everyone home safe

    If you’re hitting the town and painting it red, organise Ubers or a shuttle for everyone. You don’t need any drama close to the wedding.

    #10 Thou shalt not post ugly photos on Facebook

    Ban phones and any posting to Facebook or Instagram on the night, and keep any dodgy photos to yourself. Waking up with a hangover is one thing. Waking up with a hangover and your night blasted all over the ’Gram is another…

    ALSO SEE: Relaxing bachelorette party ideas for the chilled bride

    Relaxing bachelorette party ideas for the chilled bride

    Written by Claire Davies for Wedding Etc Summer 2019.

    Feature image: Pexels

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    wedding day tips for grooms
    In Advice

    Wedding day tips for grooms to keep the big day stress-free

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    While much of the planning attention often centres on the bride, the groom has an important role to play too. A few simple preparations can help you look sharp, feel comfortable and stay calm throughout the celebration. These tips will help ensure everything runs smoothly before (and while) you say “I do”.

    Bring a spare shirt

    Weddings can be emotional, busy and sometimes warm. Between nerves, hugs and dancing, it’s easy to sweat through a shirt. Pack a second crisp shirt so you can change before the reception or photos later in the day.

    Empty your pockets

    Phones, wallets, keys and loose change can create awkward bulges in suit trousers and they will show in photos. Before the ceremony and portraits, do a quick pocket check and hand essentials to a groomsman.

    Break in your shoes

    Brand-new dress shoes might look great, but they can quickly become uncomfortable. Wear them around the house a few times before the wedding to soften the leather and avoid blisters.

    Do a full outfit trial

    Try on your entire outfit before the big day, from tie or bowtie to cufflinks and shoes. A quick dress rehearsal ensures nothing is missing and helps you feel confident getting ready on the morning of the wedding.

    Prepare your accessories

    Small details complete the look. Lay out your cufflinks, watch, belt, tie clip and pocket square the night before so you’re not rushing to find them while getting dressed.

    Practise your speech

    If you’re planning to give a speech, run through it a few times beforehand. You don’t need to memorise every word, but feeling familiar with the flow will help calm nerves and make the moment feel more natural.

    Keep a small groom kit

    A simple emergency kit can save the day. Include items like deodorant, breath mints, tissues, a lint roller and stain remover wipes and ask a groomsman to keep it nearby.

    Trim and groom ahead of time

    Schedule haircuts or beard trims two to three days before the wedding. This allows everything to settle so you look polished but natural in photos.

    Assign a trusted groomsman

    Give one groomsman the responsibility of holding essentials like the rings, vows or your phone. It keeps your pockets empty and your mind free from small worries.

    ALSO SEE: Wedding ceremony tips to know before you walk down the aisle

    Wedding ceremony tips to know before you walk down the aisle

    Feature image: Pexels

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    wedding veil
    In Accessories

    To veil or no veil? That is the question

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    For centuries brides have worn veils for a number of symbolic and religious reasons. From warding off evil spirits in ancient Greece to displaying a woman’s virtue in Christianity, the veil has become a traditional wedding garment.

    But this doesn’t mean that they’re mandatory. Many brides opt not to wear a veil on their wedding day, choosing to go with stunning clips, grips and headbands instead. If you’re undecided, here’s a guide to help you make your choice.

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    wedding website
    In Planning

    Tips for creating a wedding website

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    The digital age is upon us. Hard print copy is slowly leaving our fingertips as we migrate online. Most people have access to the internet and a variety of digital devices. As lovely as physical wedding invites are it may be a great idea to consider a digital approach. To help you along we have put together a few notes on how to achieve a successful site. Here are a few nifty tips to consider when starting your own wed-site. 

    1. Know your limits

    If you’re not great with computers don’t opt for a website where you have to create everything from scratch. Rather go with platforms that provide existing templates. You can still customise it and make it look great! Make sure to choose a website that will showcase what you want and make you happy. Look around and decide after viewing a few options.

    2. Don’t forget the basics

    It’s so much fun choosing various designs and pictures so try to remember the basics. Be informative and ensure your wed-site goes beyond just aesthetics. Remember to include the what, where, when, who and how. Provide your guests with the 411 on dress code, the program, accommodation, location, registry, and local attractions if you are planning a destination wedding.

    3. Representation

    Be sure to create a wed-site that is a great reflection of you as a couple and of your wedding theme. Personalize the display to give guests a sneak peek of your big day – stick to a specific font, incorporate your colour scheme, or include a small photo timeline. To add extra flair, something to consider is creating a unique logo.

    4. Boast yourselves

    It’s your big day and you’re allowed to make things about yourselves. Tell your guests about your love story, how you met, funny anecdotes and how things led to this point. With that being said don’t write essays – keep things short and sweet.

    5. Registries and hashtags

    Hashtags are a great way to create an online photo album that all your guests can take part in. Perhaps the most beneficial feature of a hashtag is its ability to pull all of your wedding photos, from any source, into one place. Don’t forget to add your wedding registry link. 

    6. Protect your big day

    Be sure to use a password for your wed-site. You don’t need any wedding crashers. Any special invite-only events shouldn’t be mentioned on the wed-site like rehearsal dinner and bachelor parties.

    7. Consideration

    As mentioned before, digital is taking over but consider the fact that elderly people may not keep up with the times. If your elderly guests still sit waiting for the postman, try creating a special physical copy just for them. Also, consider having a FAQ section. Things may not always be clear and that’ll help a lot.

    Don’t think of a bland email that just consists of details and lack of creativity and representation of your love. Creating a wedding website or wed-site can be fun and exciting.

    You’re able to put your own twist on things and can play it up or down as much as you’d like. You don’t have to be tech-savvy as many websites offer existing templates that you can customise. With just one click, your guests can check out all the details and be informed of any changes.

    ALSO SEE: How to decide who gets an invite to your wedding

    How to decide who gets an invite to your wedding

    Image: Pixabay

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    In Advice

    Should you change your surname after marriage?

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    Changing your surname to your partner’s last name is often a custom that is expected and not discussed until someone questions why. In a shift away from tradition, it is becoming more common for partners to keep their own surnames and ditch the admin that comes with changing your name.

    Where the tradition stems from

    Historically, it all started in medieval England where people were known by their Christian names – just a first name. It started to go pear-shaped when names were recycled and there were more than one person with the same name. To distinguish between individuals as well as families, a second name, or surname rather, was chosen for the familial ‘group’ according to occupation or location. It was only later that women who got married had to take on the surname of the man purely based on superiority and patriarchy. This meant the woman had no legal identity apart from the man, and of course the same went for a newborn baby girl who automatically took her father’s surname. Women couldn’t vote, sign a contract, be independently recognised or even start a business if they did not take their husband’s surname.

    Changing your name

    Our identity is intimately linked to our names. Letting go of that name is hard – it feels like you’re letting go of a part of yourself, even though it won’t change who you are. For example, you could have an Indian surname but marrying a German might make you feel like you can’t identify with your heritage anymore.

    Let’s be honest, it’s a shlep. In most cases it’s the woman who will change her maiden name or opt for a hyphenated version of her surname and her husband’s surname. In same-sex marriages it’s the same situation, but it all comes down to the legal aspect of changing every single account or legal document of your entire existence. In South Africa, as of 1992 it is legal for a woman to use her maiden surname, her husband’s surname or, as of 1977, a double-barreled surname after she is married. It’s a lengthy process but it’s not impossible, just be prepared to stand in a few queues.

    Keeping your maiden name

    For women who have a professional career or a namesake business, it will make things much easier should you wish to keep your maiden name. If you are also the last female family member in line holding onto your specific surname, you might want to keep it.

    With that said, changing your surname to match you husband’s means you will pass it on to your children, so that everyone in your immediate family shares the the same surname. This traveling easier for everyone and it creates a feeling of unity.

    The bottomline is…

    It is totally up to you. It is no longer a law that a wife absolutely has to take her husband’s surname, you have to consider what it means to you. More often than not the decision will be purely emotional, rather than practical.

    ALSO SEE: Get creative with your wedding dress after the big day

    Get creative with your wedding dress after the big day

    Feature image: Unsplash

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    lily collins
    In Celebs

    Lily Collins reunited with her engagement ring three years after it was stolen

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    For many brides, losing an engagement ring is the ultimate nightmare. For Lily Collins, that nightmare became a reality.  But the story now has a happy ending.

     

    Alternative engagement ring stones

    Feature image: Lily Collins/Instagram

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