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    Top 5 reasons to have a breakfast wedding

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    We’re all familiar with dreamy afternoon weddings that celebrate late into the evening. While this can be a beautiful and more traditional approach, there’s something simply magical about a breakfast wedding.

    1. They’re way more budget-friendly

    Hosting a morning wedding can often mean cutting costs on venue and food, with certain locations lowering their prices as it’s a less busy time. There also won’t be nearly as much drinking in the morning, and simple mimosas, coffees and teas should suffice. Planning this kind of wedding in off-peak season will also help you save on venue costs.

    2. The timing will be more flexible

    Starting the celebrations earlier allows you much more time to either carry on celebrating or to head home early and jet off for your honeymoon. There will be no rush to hurry any part of the event, and you will find guests will feel more refreshed and calm during the entire affair.

    3. There’s more room for intimacy

    A breakfast/brunch wedding is perfect for smaller groups and more intimate moments between guests and the bridal party. Placing small picnic blankets out, snacks and wedding games for guests to enjoy will encourage conversation and bonding between the families.

    4. You can enjoy a wide range of delicious foods

    There’s a reason they say ‘breakfast all day’. Everyone loves breakfast food, and there’s is such a variety to choose from. From a coffee bar to cereal stations and a hot breakfast buffet, the options are endless (and delicious!)

    5. The decor will be easier to work with

    Morning receptions are very versatile. You can go big with a glamorous affair or small and intimate, it’s all down to your own preference. Lighting won’t be an issue, and if you’re choosing to host your wedding outdoors you can make use of an abundance of greenery to decorate the venue. Breakfast wedding decor also tends to be much simpler and cleaner, and less is needed to brighten up the space.

    Image: Pexels

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    In Accessories

    Curly hairstyles for your big day

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    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

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    In Advice

    Louisvale: love in the winelands

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    Romance among the vines, what more could you ask for? South Africans and international couples alike have been choosing from the country’s many beautiful wine farms as wedding venues. For a modern yet traditional venue, look no further than the luxurious Louisvale wine farm.

    Located in the picturesque Devon Valley area of the Stellenbosch wine district, Louisvale carves its own spot in the fluctuating foothills of the 3-million-year-old Cape Folded Mountains.

    A distinct history is honoured here.  The first man-made structures in the area were created by the Nomadic Khoekhoen. Their designs typically featured domed structures resembling tortoises and made from Taaibos laths covered with woven reed mats and animal skins. When the European settles arrived in the 17th century, they brought with them Cape Dutch architecture.

    Louisvale as we know it today combines these design aesthetics: Neo Cape Dutch meets modern Khoekhoen architecture. With a Rheinzink dome roof, open spaces, floating glass and a stunning concrete floor infused with abalone shell chips, the function area is nothing short of breathtaking.

    The original manor house still stands proud, perfectly juxtaposing the modern function area with its traditional gables and lime washed, plastered walls.

    It’s easy to see why Louisvale would make the perfect wedding venue. Couples can have their wedding ceremony outdoors with an impressive 280° view of the winelands, then move their wedding indoors for the reception. With floating glass windows that can be slid open, there is no sacrificing the incredible view.

    It costs R50 000 to rent out the venue for the day, which includes all existing furnitures, tables, ceremony chairs, standard cutlery and glassware and exclusive use for the day. The bridal party organises their own decor and can bring in third suppliers for whatever they desire.

    For in-house catering, Louisvale’s menu’s start at R500 per head depending on the final menu selected. And believe us, you’ll want them to cater. From grilled lamb steak on a bed of creamy polenta to confit duck leg with butternut puree and a citrus glaze, their dishes will have your guests’ mouths watering.

    Louisvale is well-known for their high quality wines, many of which are award-winning. From Chardonnay to Merlot, every wine is expertly crafted by winemaker Simon Smith to suit multiple taste palettes.

    Louisvale is perfect for the modern-yet-traditional couple. Ring in your nuptials at this beautiful venue for a memorable day and even more memorable views.

    For queries and inquiries on holding your wedding at Louisvale, please contact [email protected]

    Address: Devon Valley Rd, Devonvallei, Stellenbosch

    Trading hours: Monday to Saturday from 10am – 4pm.

    Image: Instagram

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    In Engagements

    KFC couple to wed in December

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    South Africa’s favourite couple have officially set a date for the wedding of the year. Hector Mkansi and Nonhlanhla Soldaat are officially getting married on December 31, 2019.

    In a tweet, KFC South Africa officially announced that Hector and Nonhlanhla, who stole our hearts when they became engaged in a Vaal KFC in early November, will say ‘I Do’ on New Year’s Eve.

    The couple are already married, but because of their financial situation, they could not have the wedding they truly wanted. This time, they’re doing it big and the nation is fully behind them.

    Precious the Planner, one of the country’s top wedding planners, is already on board to plan the big day.

    Other notable businesses that have offered support include Takealot, Capfin, Kulula, Sun City Resort, Koo Food.

    Popular photographer Austin Malema has offered to be the official photographer, DJ Fresh has offered to donate a DJ set for the reception, and Zakes Bantwini has offered to perform at the wedding.

    Drum magazine has offered a two-page spread on the couple, and it is rumoured that Mzanzi Magic’s Our Perfect Wedding will capture the wedding in all its glory.

    It’s not only businesses feeling the love. People are offering to support in any way they can, from donating money to supplying cars, outfits, accessories, invites and drinks.

    If you would also like to support the happy couple, all media queries, donations and pledges can be directed to [email protected].

    Image: Twitter

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    In Advice

    Top 10 things for couples to do in Mauritius

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    For a romantic honeymoon destination, look no further than Mauritius. The Indian Ocean island has been a mainstay with South African couples for decades and it’s easy to see why. With stunning beach views and romantic activities, there is no end to the fun and flirty things to do with your significant other. Here are some must-do activities for your next island escape.

    1: Sundowners on Belle Mare Beach

    A beautiful view and your favourite person is sometimes all you need. Enjoy delicious beverages while taking in one of the island’s most picturesque beaches. With long stretches of pristine white sand, the turquoise sea and crystal clear water surrounded by large casuarina trees, you’ll round out your day on a high note.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/Bu8vN_FlBbZ/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    2: Stroll hand-in-hand through Pamplemousses Botanical Garden

    This corner of paradise is the oldest botanical garden in the southern hemisphere, which makes it a definite must-see. Marvel at the amazing collection of 85 types of palm trees, the spice garden and of course, the giant waterlillies on show at this noteworthy natural location.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BRqIFa8BrZl/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    3: Horse ride on Riemdael Beach

    Romance and horse riding go hand-in-hand. Add the beach to the equation and you’re golden. When in Mauritius, make sure to go on a scenic horseback ride with your love to make you feel like you’re the main characters in your very own romance novel.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/Bznx5B9F4-M/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    4: Explore Chamarel Waterfall

    The country’s tallest waterfall makes for a perfect daytime activity. Wade through the chilly waters with your partner while relishing in the green foliage and dense forest that surround you.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B39ziMdl06c/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    5: Sunset Catamaran Cruise

    Live a life of luxury – at least for a little while – aboard a catamaran cruise. Mauritius is best seen from the water, so you simply cannot miss this opportunity. While catamaran cruises generally run all day, going at sunset guarantees stunningly soft skies and cooler weather. It’s the perfect time to cuddle up and enjoy the best of what nature has to offer.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BzZ4tdelCvM/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    6: Helicopter tour of the ‘Underwater Waterfall’

    For a truly mesmerising view, you have to go high. This curious natural phenomenon is actually an optical illusion. Mauritius sits on an ocean shelf raised above seabed level, with a gradual slope that abruptly ends in a 4000-meter-deep abyssal drop. The movement of sand and silt on this slope causes the water to appear different colours, thus creating the effect of an underwater waterfall. What a memorable marvel to witness.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BwaGoYwHJ7I/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    7: Spend the day at Ile aux Cerfs

    Popularly known as the Treasure Island, Ile aux Cerfs is a privately-owned island home to some of the world’s best beaches. Spend the day engaging in the various water sports and beach activities offered on the island. From getting around in glass-bottom boats to snorkeling in the crystal-clear water, you and your partner will absolutely fall in love with this island.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/Bwt-8f0FxOx/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    8: Sleep under the stars

    For a romantic night, Ile Aux Cerf Golf Club is a must-stay. The resort offers their bubble lodge, an outdoor residence fitted with a lounge area, a cozy bedroom, a washroom and an open sky shower. Each unit has been tastefully decorated combining earthy tones and natural fabrics.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BzC_zbWldn9/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    9: Hike up Le Morne mountain

    A hike might not sound that romantic, but we promise it will be worth it. Once you reach the summit of Le Morne, the view of Mauritius spreading out in front of you will take your breath away.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/Bz-JCkQh61m/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    10: Witness the Coloured Earth of Chamarel

    They say that red is the colour of love, so why not go where the hue surrounds you? Seven Coloured Earths are a truly exquisite natural geological formation where rainbow-hued sand dunes undulate and settle in separate layers.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B49itBNisOI/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Image: Unsplash

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    In Advice

    Creative drinks station ideas

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    A wedding is not complete without some delectable drinks. Whether you’re going big and boozy or alcohol-free, there are so many ways to have fun with your drink displays. A creative drinks station can often fit your wedding theme and personality way better than a normal bar. From rustic romance to a glamorous engagement, there is a unique station for every theme.

    Replace the standard bar with one of these creative drink stations to have your guests sip and savour in style.

    Gin bath:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B1G_iDnFv7X/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Drinks truck:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B1dxCPSgJXm/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Welcoming words:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B4jT0WwqfdZ/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Terrific tower:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BvoilwgFS1Y/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Boozy boot:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B4QDMmZKMoC/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Simplistic symmetry:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B2IEcuOhwni/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Beer bar:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B2t30gID63c/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Wall of wonder:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B4ux-leg3GX/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Champagne cart:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BuufJhIF-V1/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Pun love:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/ByiJm3dpom-/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Hot chocolate thunder:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/Bp3crbVBgfv/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Caffeine kick:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B3xJuH-ISeJ/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Image: Unsplash

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    In Advice

    How to elope – legally

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    When you think of elopements, visions of secret romantic getaways spring to mind. A day of shared love with you and your partner is endlessly meaningful and simple. However, that doesn’t mean it will be effortless. While often marketed as the easy option, there are still a number of variables to consider when opting to elope. Here is what you need to know.

    Legality in South Africa:

    The solemnisation and registration of civil marriages, customary marriages and civil unions are all managed by South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs. As a South African citizen, your marriage has to go through the necessary paperwork in order to be legal.

    In order to receive a marriage licence, you must:

    – ensure that you are legally allowed to marry

    – understand the legal consequences of a marriage, particularly that marriages in South Africa are automatically in community of property, unless a valid ante-nuptial contract has been entered into before the marriage, and

    – make sure that your marriage will comply with all the legal requirements for a valid marriage.

    Necessary documents:

    On the day of your wedding, the following documents must be produced:

    – Identity documents for each person getting married

    – If a foreign national is marrying a South African citizen, they should both present their valid passports as well as well as a completed BI-31 Form (Declaration for the Purpose of Marriage, Letter of no impediment)

    – If the wedding is for a minor (a person under the age of 18 years), the written consent of both parents/ legal guardian or the Commissioner of Child Welfare or a judge should be submitted on Form DHA-32 as well. If the minors getting married are under the ages of 18 for boys or 15 for girls, the written consent from the Minister of Home Affairs will also be required

    – If any of the persons getting married are divorced, then the final decree of divorce should be furnished

    – If any of the persons getting married are widowed, the deceased spouse’s death certificate must be submitted.

    A Home Affairs-wedding requires at least two witnesses. These witnesses and the marriage officer must then sign the marriage register following the solemnisation of a marriage. The marriage officer will issue the parties with a handwritten marriage certificate (BI-27) free of charge. The marriage officer must then submit the marriage register to the nearest office of the Department of Home Affairs, where the marriage details will be recorded in the National Population Register (NPR).

    Marrying abroad:

    If you want to marry abroad, you will be subject to the laws of that particular country, so it is of utmost importance to research their specific requirements at their official embassy. In most cases, you will be required to submit a Letter of No Impediment (LNI). The LNI is a certificate issued by the Department of Home Affairs Head Office to confirm the current marital status of an individual and that they are free to marry.

    Application forms can be submitted to the Department of Home Affairs or an SA High Commission office. If you are divorced, you will have to submit your decree of divorce along with your application. It can take up to six months to receive your letter depending on processing time, so the earlier you can apply, the better. The certificate is valid for six months from the date of issuing.

    Importantly, it must be issued by the Department of Home Affairs Head Office, not a Regional Home Affairs Office, in order to ensure legality. The LNI can only be legalised if an original, official Home Affairs letterhead, signed and stamped by the authorised Home Affairs official (Head Office only) has been provided.

    Image: Unsplash

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    In Advice

    Groomsmen pranks for an extra memorable day

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    Pranking the groom on his wedding day can be risky business. He is likely already on edge and any small thing could set him off. If you’re planning on pranking the groom, be sure to tread carefully. After all, you don’t want to be the guy who ruins the day for the groom. “Harmless” is the mood you should aim for with your pranks.

    What is a harmless prank, you ask? At a wedding, a harmless prank is anything that doesn’t offend the couple, doesn’t affect the day overall,  and doesn’t come across as disrespectful.

    If you’re looking for a few ideas, we’ve got some for you.

    – “You’re late!!”

    While the groom is asleep, change the time on his watch and phone. Set the time two or three hours ahead. Make sure you wake up bright and early to wake him up. Frantically run into his room the morning of the wedding shouting about how late he is. When he checks the time, he’ll panic too. Little does he know, he is not late at all.

    – “You’re a joke”

    This is not so much a prank, but usually gets people laughing. If you’re giving a speech, all you need to do is throw in tons of embarrassing stories about the groom. Another classic groomsman move.

    If you want something a bit more risky, we’ve got two ideas for you. But be warned, pranks during the ceremony may not be well received, no matter how harmless. If you’re doing this, be certain that you know the groom AND BRIDE will take it well.

    – “That’s not the ring!”

    When the time comes to hand over the ring to the groom, hand him a toy ring or a ring pop instead. This is sure to catch everyone’s attention.

    – “A for effort”

    Get the other groomsmen in on this one. Each groomsman should hide a number written in bold inside their jackets. After the couple’s first kiss, get the guys to reveal the numbers as if they’re rating the kiss or giving it a score.

    Finally, take a look at these two perfectly executed pranks on the groom, and decide if you have the pre-planning skills to pull them off:

    – Best Man replaces bride in first look photoshoot

    Groom-to-be Keegan prepares himself to see his beautiful bride for the first time. He is nervous and excited and surely can’t wait to see her. Little does he know, he is in for the surprise of his life. When he turns around, its not his bride but rather his best man in a wedding dress! If you’re going to try this one, you’ll have to get the bride in on it…and buy a wedding dress.

    Credit: Sarah Pukin Photography
    Credit: Sarah Pukin Photography

    – Best man replaces groom’s suit

    Best man Colm Carberry went out of his way to pull this prank on his brother. He requested that the suit company tailor a suit exactly like his brother’s, but two sizes smaller. He switched the real suit with the smaller one, and he set up a camera to catch his brother’s reaction to the extra small suit.

    Credit: Youtube/360carbo

    Which prank will you try?

    Image: Unsplash

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    In Accessories

    Bridesmaids trade bouquets for puppies

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    Bouquets have come to be the classic accessory for bridesmaids to carry as they walk down the aisle. A bride in Plant City, Florida, however, decided on something different. When Andee Ondina and Tina Krasinski wed on Monday, their bridesmaids strolled down the aisle with puppies instead of flowers.

    The bride, Ondina, made this unorthodox decision in the hopes of raising awareness for rescue animals and to persuade people to adopt, not shop. Adoption applications were even available at the wedding reception.

    Credit: Facebook/Andee Krasinski

    The bridal party included 10 adoptable five-week-old puppies. Ondina told WFLA-TV  that she decided to nickname her furry bouquet substitutes “puppquets”.

    This unconventional choice made the day even more special by adding an adorable flare to the ceremony. The couple’s decision to use their wedding for a good cause is likely to have an even happier ending. From stories we’ve seen in the past, these kinds of thoughtful gestures usually end with most, if not all, of the puppies ending up in happy and loving homes.

    It isn’t just the Krasinski’s getting into the puppy spirit. In 2017, North Carolina bride  Meghan Bulter also opted for puppies instead of bouquets for herself and her bridesmaids at her wedding. Like Ondina, Butler had decided on this in the hopes that she would raise awareness for puppies who needed rescuing. After the wedding, Butler told People that all the puppies had since been adopted.

    Similarly, Sally Burky told Insider that after her wedding, which also showcased adorable dogs who were up for adoption, four out of the total five dogs were adopted. On this occasion, having the puppies at the wedding not only allowed for the adoption of four puppies, but also drew a lot of attention to the rescue home that the dogs were living in. The rescue home, Haven of the Ozarks, was overwhelmed by the support they received after Burky’s wedding.

    So, to us, having bridesmaids carry puppies is cool and unconventional but also heartwarming and adorable. It may just be the pawfect decision.

    Image: Facebook/Wishing Well Barn

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    In Food

    Edible wedding favours

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    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

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