wedding advice Archives

Planning Your Own Wedding vs. Hiring a Wedding Planner

August 15, 2025 No Comments

Planning a wedding is an exciting journey, but it can also be overwhelming. One of the first decisions you’ll face is whether to plan your wedding yourself or hire a professional wedding planner. Each approach has its advantages and challenges. This guide will help you weigh the pros and cons, provide insights into effective wedding planning, and offer a basic budget plan to get you started.

Pros and Cons: DIY Wedding Planning vs. Hiring a Wedding Planner

DIY Wedding Planning

Pros:

Cost Savings: Planning your own wedding can save you money, as you won’t need to pay for a wedding planner’s services.
Creative Control: You have the freedom to personalize every detail, from the theme to the decor, ensuring the wedding reflects your unique style.
Hands-On Experience: Managing the planning process allows you to learn and grow as a couple, strengthening your teamwork skills.

Cons:

Time-Consuming: Wedding planning requires a significant time investment, which can be challenging if you have a busy schedule.
Stress and Pressure: Handling all the details can be stressful, especially as the wedding day approaches.
Limited Expertise: Without professional experience, you might overlook important details or face challenges in vendor negotiations.

Hiring a Wedding Planner

Pros:

Expert Guidance: Wedding planners bring professional experience, helping you navigate the complexities of wedding planning.
Vendor Connections: Planners often have established relationships with vendors, potentially securing better deals and reliable services.
Stress Reduction: With a planner handling logistics, you can focus on enjoying your engagement and the lead-up to your big day.

Cons:

Additional Cost: Hiring a planner is an added expense, which might strain your budget.
Less Personal Control: You may have to compromise on certain aspects to align with the planner’s suggestions or availability.

Wedding Planning Insights and Tips

Start Early: Begin planning at least 12 months in advance to ensure ample time for decision-making and coordination.
Set a Realistic Budget: Determine how much you’re willing to spend and allocate funds to different categories accordingly.
Choose an Off-Peak Date: Selecting a wedding date during off-peak seasons or weekdays can lead to cost savings. (The Budget Savvy Bride)
Limit the Guest List: Reducing the number of guests can significantly decrease costs for catering, seating, and favors.
DIY Decor: Consider creating your own decorations or opting for minimalistic designs to save money.

Basic Wedding Budget Breakdown

Here’s a general guide to how you might allocate your wedding budget:

Category	Percentage of Total Budget
Venue	40%
Catering	20%
Attire (Bride & Groom)	10%
Photography/Videography	10%
Entertainment	5%
Flowers & Decor	5%
Stationery	3%
Miscellaneous	7%

Note: These percentages are approximate and can be adjusted based on your priorities and preferences.

Deciding between planning your own wedding and hiring a wedding planner depends on your budget, time, and desire for control. If you have the time and enjoy organizing, a DIY approach can be rewarding. However, if you prefer to reduce stress and benefit from professional expertise, hiring a planner might be the best choice.

Featured Image: Pixels

In Advice

Saying “I do” doesn’t have to mean saying “I do” to debt

July 25, 2022 No Comments

The first year of marriage is always marital bliss, especially when you have heaps of debt behind your name. While there’s nothing wrong with dreaming up the perfect wedding – bells and whistles included – walking down the aisle doesn’t have to mean walking straight into wedding debt.

Overspending on your wedding day may just cancel out the marital bliss everyone enthusiastically talks about. According to a 2019 study by LendingTre e concluded that 45% of newlyweds between the ages of 18 and 53 went into debt to pay for the wedding. And with many South African couples paying between R80 000 – R120 000, as per Standard Bank, it’s no surprise why.

While getting married can be an expensive business, sometimes it helps to stop and think before making a big purchase on Kim Kardashian-esque flower wall.

Trade debt for memories

Sometimes it’s easy to get caught up in the tasks and balance sheets of planning a wedding, but it’s important to remember why everyone is really attending your wedding – love. The food, DJ, wedding photographer, and signature drink are just the cherry on top of your love and commitment cake, and it’s important to keep this at the centre of your planning.

Get on the same page

According to the same 2019 study, nearly 76% of newlyweds who reported they went into debt also stated they argued over wedding-related expenses. The remedy? Bridal couples need to get on the same page when determining what they’re spending their hard-earned cash on. Creating a wedding budget and discussing expense details are two ways for avid debt collectors. If you’re looking to splurge on an open bar, make sure you’re both comfortable with how long it will be “open,” what liquor will be available, and what the total will come to.

Stick to your boundaries

We’ve all heard the phrase: “keeping up with the Joneses,” but sometimes it’s okay to watch them cruise on by. Planning a wedding can feel overwhelming which can easily lead to bridal couples listening to the opinions of others. A great way to avoid being swayed by friends and family members and what they’d like to see at your wedding is by writing down a list of wedding priorities that are important to you and your partner. Consider what is “worth-it” and what is “non-negotiable,” this will provide you with a better foundation with which to smile and say “no, thank you.”

Feature Image: Pinterest

In Advice

6 Incredible ideas to help you save on your wedding!

July 25, 2022 No Comments

Every bride and groom attempts to make their wedding day as dreamy as possible. Unfortunately, going all out by having the biggest cake and wedding venue can sometimes feel as though it’s costing you an arm and a leg.

If you’re looking to save money but don’t know where to cut costs, here are a few genius ideas:

One-tiered wedding cakes are the way to go

When it comes to cake, bigger isn’t always better. More and more couples are ditching the extravagant three-tiered wedding cakes for something simpler. One-tiered desserts can be just as breathing-taking as their bigger counterparts and a smaller display can always be made a bit more eye-catching with a dessert bar.

Who needs a centrepiece?

No really… who does? Ditch the massive centrepieces and opt for something more demure… budget-friendly bud holders. Make it extra special by choosing a flower that has a special meaning; perhaps the romantic rose or beautiful tulip? No matter which flowers you choose to display, slim bud holders will make this a lot more affordable.

Get fruity…

If bud holders are just too simple for you, go all out by taking the organic approach. Grab lemons, apples, oranges, or your favourite fruit, and sprinkle them with flower petals. Take things up a notch by adding gold fruit!

Opt for an elegant buffet

We’ve never heard anyone complain when presented with a delicious and abundant buffet. Opting for a wedding buffet to keep your guests satisfied could help you save money in the long run, including staffing costs.

Take a chance on photography talent

It’s no secret that wedding photographers can be quite pricey, especially those that have established themselves. A great way to save on costs is to seek out a photographer that’s talented but trying to make a name for themselves. Who knows? You may have the next Annie Leibovitz photographing your wedding.

Invest in a wedding website

This is a cute and paperless way to let guests know they’re invited to your upcoming nuptials! It’s also a great way to save money with a wedding website costing R1000 – depending on who you choose to create your website. Provide guests with all relevant information in one place, including, wedding details, rehearsal details and RSVP options.

No need for top-shelf liquor

While there’s nothing with wanting to serve your guests the best liquor out there, sometimes it helps to cut down on costs by cutting down on brand names. Do your guests really need Johnnie Walker Gold.

Feature Image: Jana Williams Photography

In Advice

The ultimate wedding day emergency kit to avoid disaster!

June 7, 2022 No Comments

We all hope that our wedding day will go off without a hitch, but sometimes mishaps happen. Between wardrobe malfunction to allergic reactions to beauty blunders – it’s all part of the process.

I’m sure we’d all love to be prepared for every scenario our minds can conjure, but this is simply not possible. However, a little preparation goes a long way and adding an emergency kit to your wedding day can be a great way to alleviate stress.

Needle and Thread

Sometimes things tear, and that’s true for bridesmaids and wedding dresses. Having a handy dandy sewing kit is a must when getting ready for your big day, it helps avoid anyone running around looking for a needle and thread.

Shoe Repair Glue

We’re preparing for everything, right? While a tear in a dress is a very real reality, sometimes heels get stuck on things they shouldn’t and give way to gravity. Adding some shoe repair glue into your emergency kit may save you the trouble of re-doing your makeup after your wedding shoe hits a snag.

Double-Sided Wardrobe Tape

Stop necklines from sagging and keep straps covered with this life-saving tool! This magical little took has the ability to tackle wardrobe malfunction by simply peeling and sticking.

Wine Stain Remover

The drinks are flowing and the guests are getting down on the dance floor. A shove here and a spill there, sometimes white wedding dresses can get stained when having a good time. Not to worry, Takealot has a few good options when it comes to stain removals, especially red wine!

Mini First Aid Kit

Grab a travel-sized first aid kit from your nearest pharmacy or online. These kits are equipped with everything you could need when handling bumps, scratches, and other minor accidents that may derail your day.

Feature Image: Unsplash

In uncategorized

Wedding planning tips that could save your life

May 9, 2022 No Comments

While planning your wedding can be a time that’s filled with cake tasting and venue scouting, it can also be a time that’s filled with pulling out your hair and stress eating. Planning your impending nuptials can be a stressful affair, but it doesn’t have to be!

If you’re hoping to look back on your big day and smile with contentment and not sneer at the thought of all the stress you were under, check out these helpful tips.

Manage Your Expectations

You can use Pinterest and photos to inspire you, but your wedding won’t look exactly the same. There are so many different factors at play when you see those images on the internet: Where in the world was it taken? Is it even a real wedding, or a staged shoot? Are those flowers available in SA? So whatever you do, make sure you don’t get upset or stressed when things aren’t perfect – you’ll just ruin your day.

Come Prepared and Avoid Wardrobe Malfunctions

You or anyone in your bridal party might need a hook-and-eye closure, so be sure to carry spares, needle-nose pliers, and a sewing kit. Just one lean over into the gin table and pop! Disaster.

Stick to your Budget

It’s your wedding and it’s all very exciting, but you have a budget for a reason. Don’t set yourself into years of debt, or sell your prized pony. Set a budget for your wedding and download a wedding-planner app on your phone. Stick to it, and you’ll be glad that you did once the confetti has settled.

Don’t let your self-consciousness get the best of you

“I wish I had known how beautiful I looked.” Make sure this is not something you say four months, or years, later. Make choices that are your own when it comes to your dress or suit, and on the big day, rock it. Don’t worry about the fat roll you think is there, or the laugh lines under your eyes. Enjoy the moment; it goes quicker than you think.

Put your own spin on it

Listen to your mom, best friends and Aunt Joanna. But whatever you do, do it your way.

Don’t go cheap on certain things

Food poisoning for all your guests? Not fun. Blown-out or unflattering wedding photographs? You’ll regret that. While everything else lasts for the one day, you’ll have those pictures forever, so you want to get your money’s worth.

Don’t nitpick on the details

Months of planning, crammed into four or five hours, which are so charged with emotions and tears, you might not even notice that small calligraphy initials on the stem of every rose… Don’t stress about every little thing while planning your wedding and on the big day. Such a cliche, but words that couldn’t be more true.

Feature Image: Pinterest

In Accessories

7 Gorgeous summer wedding bouquet ideas

March 3, 2022 No Comments

There’s something magical about summer weddings! The good weather and bounty of fresh flowers may have something to do with it.

Summertime offers plenty of delectable fresh blooms to choose from, no matter your ideal bouquet – classic or over-the-top – the season offers a variety of colours and textures that are perfect for your wedding ceremony.

Here are 7 of our favourite summer wedding bouquets.

Vibrant peonies

Keep it classic with white roses

Step outside the box with bougainvillea

A pop of colour

Match with white

An array of colourful wildflowers

The King of the Protea

In Advice

Elegant dresses for the minimalist bride

December 3, 2019 No Comments

As a bride, your wedding dress is your choice. Many of today’s brides follow the ‘bigger is better’ motto. Gowns are glamorously adorned with beads, feathers, tulle and lace to create a dramatic and dynamic finish. But many others are more attracted to the simple side of life.

If you’re not one for flounces and fancies, a minimalist dress might just be the one for you. Clean lines and simplistic designs allow focus to be on the bride rather than the outfit.

Take inspiration from these understated yet bold gowns.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BsvBlUhj58r/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B5k4lP6Hww9/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

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https://www.instagram.com/p/B5GJSxjD9ar/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Image: Unsplash

In Accessories

Curly hairstyles for your big day

November 28, 2019 No Comments

Anyone with curly hair knows it can be temperamental. If you’ve decided to rock your natural texture on your big day, fear not. The joy of curly hair is that is it can be anything it wants to be.

There are a wide variety of creative curly hairstyles to choose from. Whether you’r rocking locks, braids, a ‘fro or your wash ‘n go, we’ve got styles to suit everyone.

Shining star:

https://www.instagram.com/p/B1NxqBRByic/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Relaxed updo:

https://www.instagram.com/p/B12U4W1FKdM/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Romantic faux-hawk:

https://www.instagram.com/p/B4U9RwIFUeo/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Sleek simplicity:

https://www.instagram.com/p/B3YQ2OaJsaj/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Locked and loaded:

https://www.instagram.com/p/BxsO94pHGjX/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Chic chignon:

https://www.instagram.com/p/B3XA0qvnj3i/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Fantastic ‘fro:

https://www.instagram.com/p/B4k7_gxJvbZ/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Textured twists:

https://www.instagram.com/p/B2rsVBHJRpK/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Brilliant braids:

https://www.instagram.com/p/B5TPSsWHs7Z/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Crowning glory:

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

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 Advice

The pros and cons of hiring a wedding planner

November 11, 2019 No Comments

Planning a wedding can be tough. With all the moving parts, you’re bound to feel overwhelmed. So why not rely on a professional to do it for you? Wedding planners are experts in all things wedding.

Hiring a wedding planner, however, doesn’t work for everyone. If you’re struggling to figure out if a wedding planner is right for you then check out our list of pros and cons.

Pros:

– Less stressful: Having a wedding planner takes all of the planning and scheduling off your hands. All you really need to do is say yes or no to the plan and sign the cheques. If you are someone who gets overwhelmed quickly, a wedding planner will be amazing for you. You can breathe a sigh of relief knowing someone else will put in the time and effort to bring your vision to life.

– Discounts: Since they have worked in the business for so long, wedding planners have connections and can often score discounts or deals with vendors. This way, you can actually save money on a service.

– New ideas: Let’s face it, you’re probably scouring Pinterest for wedding inspiration, which could lead to your big day being quite cookie-cutter. Wedding planners have seen and done it all, and often come with fresh ideas to create a unique spin on a classic. They can even show you ideas you would never have thought of. You can rely on them to make your wedding day special and memorable for the right reasons.

– They think of everything: A lot can go wrong on your wedding day. if you’re not a professional event planner you might not consider the smaller details that can all affect the day. Being professionals, wedding planners would have already factored all variables in and set a Plan B in place.

Cons:

– Less control: A wedding planner is both a blessing and a curse. After discussing your vision, you will have to relinquish control to the expert. If you are someone that likes to be in control and know every detail, then hiring a wedding planner might not be right for you.

– Costly: You’re paying for the wedding planner’s expertise and that can often come at a high cost. If you’ve got a tight budget then a wedding planner will probably not fit into it.

Image: Unsplash