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In Planning

10 Adorable ways to include your pet in your wedding!

February 2, 2022 No Comments

Who wouldn’t want to walk down the aisle with their furriest four-legged friend by their side? Clad in the cutest black and white tuxedo, and sporting the wettest of all the noses, having your fur baby is surely a dream, not always practical.

However, don’t fear fur parents, we’ve thought of some creative ways you can include your bestie in your big day without (hopefully) causing a cat-astrophe.

Get ready with them …

Grab your wedding gown and snap a few adorable pics with them before the ceremony.

We all need a furry ring bearer or flower up

Flower girls are cute, but have you ever seen a dog walk down the aisle carrying a ring!

Who wouldn’t want a little anxiety-relieving support at the altar

Wedding day jitters got you tongue-tied … ease your nerves or add a little warmth to the ceremony by having your pet nearby.

Make them the star of your wedding cake

Who doesn’t want to wow guests with the cutest wedding topper ever … a great way to include any pet is to include them on your wedding cake.

Add them to the post-wedding ceremony walk

Once the vows are said and done, take a walk with your pup or pups!

Signature wedding/pet cocktail anyone?

Have your resident mixologist whip up a drink as sweet or spicy as your best friend!

But don’t forget to add them to the bar menu!

Make sure your guests know just who the inspiration for the signature drinks is by adding your fur baby to the menu!

Make it uber-romantic by including them in your first dance

They may just stop you from stepping on your new husband/wife’s toes! Also, it’s a super adorable way to include them in your wedding.

Give back

While your pup is privilege to have you shower them with love and treats, not all animals are that lucky. Skip the traditional wedding favour and pay it forward by adding a little donation option or box for your guests to add a little sunshine to an animal’s life.

Photobooth props!

Show guests a good time by incorporating your pet into your big day with a few hilarious or adorable photo booth props!

Also Read: 15 Of the best first dance songs for an unforgettable celebration

Picture: The Danger Booth

In Advice

7 Wedding nail ideas for brides and their big day

January 20, 2022 No Comments

When the wedding day rolls around, all eyes will be on you … and your hands. Between intimate shots of you and your handsome {new} husband, everyone fawning over your wedding ring, and the signing of your wedding certificate, your hands will be getting plenty of time in the spotlight.

And adding a fresh manicure to your wedding to-do list will ensure that your gorgeous nails get a chance to shine. Perhaps a simple French manicure is right up your alley, or moody and bold hues provide a little pop of colour. Here are a few wedding manicure ideas for you to think about:

Keep it neutral

The colour grey should never be underestimated! This colour provides a modern yet elegant twist for your wedding day and gives a pop of colour that isn’t too over the top.

Keep it simple, but not too simple

Adding a nude colour to your nails is a great way to ensure that you keep things simple, choosing to let your wedding gown do all the talking. However, a great way to utilise this trend while still being a little flashy is by incorporating a subtle design such as this gorgeous marble-esque nail design.

A touch of gold

Simple yet oh-so magical. Painted gold foiling is a subtle way to add a little je ne sais quois to your nails and your big day.

The single rhinestone

Who wouldn’t want to match their engagement ring or wedding band? This bridal manicure trend has been around for a while, so why mess with a classic? This is a wonderful way to include some glitz without the gold to your nails.

Romantic reds

Attention bold brides! If you’re looking to make a statement when it comes to your nails, then this one is for you. Deep reds such as burgundy can be a wonderful way to add colour to your white gown while sprinkling some extra romance to your day.

Ombré Away

Trying out an ombré nail design for your wedding day can be a great way to spice things up without getting too crazy. Stick to neutrals or soft shades if you’re looking to keep it simple.

Metallic to rock your world

Add some extra sparkle to your wedding day with a metallic manicure. A great way to ensure that colours don’t clash is to make sure that your fresh manicure matches your engagement ring or wedding band.

Picture: @loreanjewellery

In Drinks

Signature cocktails to add a little zest to your summer wedding

December 20, 2021 No Comments

Basking in the beautifully warm rays of the African sun while walking down the aisle and saying “I do” to your special person sounds magical. For many couples, warmer weather means wedding bells with summer being a favourite season amongst bridal couples looking to get hitched.

But one of the most important aspects of planning a summer wedding it – hydration, hydration and more hydration. Adding a signature cocktail to your wedding day not only helps your guests to cool off, but a signature cocktail can set the mood.

Stumped on which mouth-watering cocktail you should add? Here are five mouth-watering cocktails that your guests will love.

Coconut Margarita

Whether your beachside or on a wine farm, this creamy addition will transport your tastebuds to the ocean thanks to the coconut milk, water and fresh squeeze of lime. Get the recipe here.

Blackberry Whiskey Lemonade

Lemonade screams: “summer is here!” But this blackberry and whiskey lemonade drink will certainly wow guests and become an instant hit. Get the recipe here.

Rum Orange Swizzle

When we think of rum and orange were immediately reminded of the turquoise waters and white-sandy beaches of a tropical island. There’s no question that this drink will transport your guests to their favourite tropical destination in the world. Get the recipe here.

Sparkling Raspberry Lemonade

Another lemonade winner, this time with raspberry. This delicious cocktail packs a summery punch thanks to the raspberries and lemonade – yum! Swap the sparkling water for some sparkling wine. Get the recipe here.

Frozen watermelon margarita

Watermelon is a staple during summer, so why can’t it be a staple at your wedding too? This tantalising summer cocktail blends frozen watermelon and tequila, bringing to life something your guests will never forget. Get the recipe here.

Cucumber Lime Basil Sparkling Spritzer

Cucumber slices, basil leaves, and sparkling wine – this is what makes a refreshing drink! This is the perfect cocktail addition to any wedding if you’re not looking for something too sweet. Get the recipe here, swapping Preseco for your favourite bottle of sparkling wine.

Picture: Unsplash

In News

PICS: 5th International Wedding Photography Awards provides some stunning images

December 13, 2021 No Comments

Your wedding day is a snapshot to the rest of your life. It goes by in a flash, so capturing the amazing little moments that make the big day is important. There are some incredible photographers that go above and beyond to ensure that they capture these moments as you go about celebrating your nuptials, between getting ready, the first dance, to everything in between.

The International Photography Awards encompasses this very idea. The competition, which is sponsored by Canon Australia, received over 1 500 submissions from eager wedding photographers looking to showcase those tear-jerking moments. However, Fabio Mirulla managed to snag the grand prize and take home the title of Wedding Photographer of the Year.

The winning image shows Fabio snapping a pic of the bride and a carefully placed lamp, providing a silhouette resembling a wedding gown. Talk about crafty!

In second place was photographer duo Andrew and Bec, who managed to snap a couple in formalwear as they crossed mountain peaks.

Here are a few of the other incredible entries that made the finals:

Ken Pak

Dane Tucker

Dylan Kovacevic

Christin Eid

Gaelle Meheut

Dan O’Day

Lucy Spartalis

Natalia Mikalaichyk

Steven Stemmler

Rodolfo Aguirre

In News

When her groom got sick, this bride decided to celebrate big day with a stand-in

December 8, 2021 No Comments

COVID-19 has put on damper on many things, including weddings. But what happens when your soon-to-be husband gets sick and he needs to miss your big day? You could postpone, but what about all the vendors and guests?

One bride and groom had to answer this very question. After postponing their wedding twice due to the pandemic, Christine and Gannon Karmire were hoping to finally say their “I dos” in November 2021. Unfortunately, the wedding couple had one more obstacle to overcome while attempting to make it down the aisle.

As the big day rolled around, Gannon woke up feeling sick but was hoping that it would soon pass. Unfortunately, the groom was rushed to the hospital and diagnosed with severe food poisoning, leading to a very important question – what happens now?

“We hoped I would only be gone for a couple hours, as the ceremony was scheduled for 4:30 p.m. Ultimately we thought we could attempt to have the ceremony late evening if I was able to get back in time,” Gannon told TODAY.

Things didn‘t go as planned and the groom had to be sedated to help fight off his illness. With a quick-thinking bride at the helm, she opted to cancel the ceremony portion of the day, but with dinner already planned and paid for, the thought of letting things go to waste was not an option.

Thankfully, the venue owner came to the rescue with a brilliant idea – continue with the festivities, but include Gannon in the most memorable way possible. The idea for “Stick Gannon” was born, put together by a rolling steamer with pool cues, dressed in his finest suit and an iPad with Gannon‘s picture displayed at the top – ah, perfection.

“He thought it would be good comic relief for everyone in attendance if I made a traditional reception entrance with ‘Stick Gannon.’ It was meant to lighten the mood and encourage people to enjoy both the company gathered and the already prepared dinner,” Christine said.

As you can imagine, the guests loved stick Gannon and had tons of fun dancing and posing with him. While there was plenty of fun to be had, the bride received updates from her brother who was stationed outside of the hospital.

Thankfully, Gannon made a minor recovery on the day, making his way from the hospital to be reunited with his bride with a brief 15- to 20-minute appearance.

“I actually didn’t want anyone to see me as I was still very out it from the meds they gave me. When you arrive and start hearing your name chanted by 100-plus people, you can’t exactly not go see everyone,” he explained. “Once I was there, it was a great feeling seeing the love and support everyone has for us.

The couple eventually had the chance to finally say their “I dos” in an intimate ceremony.

Pictures: Bri Hines Photography

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 News

‘Engaged’ for 7 months before dropping a bombshell: ‘I never asked you to marry me’

November 29, 2021 No Comments

Popping the big question can be a nerve-wracking experience for both the bride and groom-to-be, but there’s no question that it’s an unforgettable moment. Unfortunately, one woman did not get the happy ending she was hoping for as she took to Reddit to share her harrowing story.

The bride-to-be immediately said yes when her partner popped the question, and despite not having a ring, the thought of spending the rest of her life with the man of her dreams was enough. After all, there would be plenty of time to get a ring. However, things took a weird turn when the woman decided to go dress shopping.

“I have been planning my dream wedding for seven months now. When I told him that I was going dress shopping, he looked at me like I had five heads.”

If that’s not enough of a punch to the gut, the woman says that the man then said he never proposed. “He said, ‘why would I propose to a woman I am not even dating?’”

Despite having the wind knocked out of her wedding sails, the woman stated that she’d love to continue with wedding planning.

“I am thinking of tricking him into coming to our wedding and seeing what happens. I am not sure what else to do,” she said.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CW25J13qs-v/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

While a number of commenters were left shocked, one Redditor could sympathise.

“I was sitting on the couch watching a movie I wanted to see, and my girlfriend of a year was in the other room watching a show she liked because she wasn’t interested in the movie (yeah….I know, one of us should have compromised). I’m not really paying attention to what she was saying, but I hear an inaudible “would you marry me?” Being sarcastic, I responded back with, “of course I’ll marry you, baby.”

According to the poster, his then-girlfriend came running into the room, kissed him, and told him to enjoy watching his movie.

“The next day, while I’m at work, I start getting my phone blown up with phone calls and texts. She had put on Facebook that I proposed to her the night previous! We had a long conversation about the fact that we are not engaged, and to this day, I still don’t know exactly what she said from the other room that I misheard (mostly because she got mad and refused to tell me), but it’s always been a funny story,” he writes.

Despite the twists and turns that this story provides, there’s no question that we’d be left fuming if this ever happened to us.

Picture: Unsplash

In Destination

The Perfect Wedding Destination: A Guide to Finding ‘The One’

November 25, 2021 No Comments

The COVID-19 pandemic certainly threw a spanner in the works for countless couples across the globe, with many soon-to-say-I-do being forced to postpone their big day due to tightening lockdown restrictions. However, despite the many setbacks along the way, there is a silver lining for twosomes planning on getting hitched.

Considering how, for social distancing’s sake, big weddings are out, and small, intimate ceremonies are in, couples have been able to conserve a significant amount of their initial wedding budget with many opting to use the extra money to plan a once-in-a-lifetime destination wedding and inviting only their nearest and dearest.

If this approach to getting married sounds appealing, you might be wondering “where to?” Here’s a look at five magical local wedding destinations to which you’ll want to immediately say “I do.”

A country-style union in Citrusdal

Escape from the noise of the city streets and savour the simple country life in Citrusdal, a charming little town nestled in the Western Cape’s Olifants River Valley. Breathe in the fresh air surrounded by the Cederberg mountains and marvel at the gorgeous backdrop of sprawling citrus orchards – talk about the perfect place to snap those wedding photos!

If you’re really after unrivalled privacy, peace and quiet when it comes to tying the knot, it’s a great idea to find a venue off the beaten track or, better yet, perched at the very top of a mountain pass, such as Piekenierskloof Mountain Resort.

“This resort is a popular choice for weddings not only for its country, rustic styling and breath-taking beauty but also due to its impressive facilities. Piekenierskloof Mountain Resort always promises a well-stocked bar, along with access to an indoor heated pool and a private spa for lengthy pamper sessions for the bride-to-be and her wedding party,” says Sharmila Ragunanan, Group Marketing Executive for Dream Hotels & Resorts.

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A whimsical wedding in the Winelands

There’s no better place in which to toast to life-long health and happiness than in the Cape Winelands. Who wouldn’t want to wed in the Winelands surrounded by flourishing grapevines and mountain views? Add to that some of the world’s best wine and the most mouth-watering gourmet masterpieces comprising farm-fresh ingredients for your wedding reception and you have yourself a wedding venue recipe guaranteed to wow.

The region is also a sought-after honeymoon spot, allowing newlyweds to get wrapped up in the best of what Mother Nature has to offer. Think morning visits to the spa, romantic afternoon wine tastings and candlelit dinners at some of SA’s leading restaurants.

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Matrimony in the mountains, Drakensberg

You’ve probably noticed as you’ve gone through this list that getting married surrounded by majestic mountains is an emerging trend this wedding season. Well, there’s more to it than simply finding a beautiful backdrop for wedding photographs. Many couples believe that mountains are a perfect symbol of what they hope their union to be – strong, enduring, eternal.

There are other couples who liken marriage to the process of climbing a mountain. You start off at ‘basecamp’ when you say, ‘I do’ and begin your climb. Along the way, there are sure to be many twists and turns and extremely challenging moments, in-between moments where you can’t help but stop and savour the incredible beauty around you and a wonderful feeling of contentment. You’ll quickly realise that it’s not about reaching the top, but enjoying the journey, knowing that there will be positive and negative experiences throughout and remembering, of course, that it’s all worth it in the end!

Those looking for a true mountainous paradise can’t go wrong with the Drakensberg as their chosen destination. Whether you decide to get married at the foothills of the mountains or at the summit of one of the peaks, it’s certain to be a day to remember that’s full of depth, meaning and delight. You’ll be utterly charmed checking in at the Little Switzerland resort, an Alpine-esque retreat nestled at the foot of the northern Drakensberg. This corner of the Berg is ‘made’ for romance whether you want to get active with hikes or horse rides or relax around a roaring fire, get pampered in the spa or simply take in the epic views.

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A beautiful beach ceremony in Ballito

Saying ‘I do’ with the sunshine on your skin (making it super easy to get that natural bridal glow!) and the soft beach sand between your toes is sure to be a welcome indulgence on your special day.

It’s easy to understand why so many couples venture to the KZN coast for their nuptials. They know that they’re practically guaranteed the perfect weather and the perfect backdrop, as well as that there will be plenty of adventures in store after the wedding is over. After all, KZN is a go-to local honeymoon spot for a reason!

Ballito, in particular, is a top choice for proposals and weddings alike. Here, there are many stunning guesthouses and lodges located right next to the beach, like the ever-popular coastal resort, Zimbali Lodge. These venues promise views of the ebb and flow of the Indian Ocean, shade beneath picturesque palm trees, and an endless supply of refreshing sea air to soothe those pre-wedding jitters.

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A wedding in the wilderness, Greater Pilanesberg

If the serenity of the bushveld is calling, you can’t go wrong with a destination wedding in the North West’s Greater Pilanesberg. Grab your closest friends and relatives and head out into the wilderness for a few days of relaxation, pampering and life’s simplest pleasures ahead of the big day. It’s an ideal way in which to unwind and prepare for such a life-changing event. Once the wedding is over, you and your love will be free to set off on your own mission and enjoy a romantic safari getaway for two in the Pilanesberg National Park or, alternatively, a dose of glitz and glamour at nearby Sun City.

Wherever your wanderlust takes you, rest assured that your local destination wedding will be everything that you ever dreamed of and more. What a way to make the most of every moment as the two of you begin your life-long journey together!

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In What's Hot

Movie Alert: Jennifer Lopez and Owen Wilson say “I do” in “Marry Me” Trailer

November 22, 2021 No Comments

The thought of international singers Maluma and Jennifer Lopez in the same movie has our spines tingling. A match made in heaven, or by the looks of their new movie trailer, perhaps not.

Marry Me is said to be packed with original songs from the two Latin music stars. But while there’s nothing we love like a good song or two to tap our feet to, a lekker storyline is what we’re really after.

The film features Jennifer Lopez starring as musical superstar Kat Valdez and Owen Wilson as Charlie Gilbert, a math teacher—total strangers who agree to marry and then get to know each other. An unlikely romance about two different people searching for something real in a world where value is based on likes and followers, Marry Me is a modern love story about celebrity, marriage and social media.

Kat Valdez (Lopez) is half of the sexiest celebrity power couple on Earth with hot new music supernova Bastian (Maluma, making his feature-film debut). As Kat and Bastian’s inescapable hit single, “Marry Me,” climbs the charts, they are about to be wed before an audience of their fans in a ceremony that will streamed across multiple platforms.

Divorced high-school math teacher Charlie Gilbert (Owen Wilson) has been dragged to the concert by his daughter Lou (Chloe Coleman, HBO’s Big Little Lies) and his best friend (Sarah Silverman). When Kat learns, seconds before the ceremony, that Bastian has cheated on her with her assistant, her life turns left as she has a meltdown on stage, questioning love, truth and loyalty. As her gossamer world falls away, she locks eyes with a stranger—a face in the crowd.

If what you know lets you down, then perhaps what you don’t know is the answer, and so, in a moment of inspired insanity, Kat chooses to marry Charlie. What begins as an impulsive reaction evolves into an unexpected romance. But as forces conspire to separate them, the universal question arises: Can two people from such different worlds bridge the gulf between them and build a place where they both belong?

Sounds like a movie we can sink our teeth into. Check out the trailer below:

Picture: YouTube Official Trailer

In Weddings

5 Cute wedding traditions to include in your elopement ceremony

November 18, 2021 No Comments

Congratulations! You’ve decided to dive into the freedom-seeking world of elopement. The dawn of COVID-19 has ensured that running away and skipping the big ceremony is no longer taboo. In fact, it’s probably encouraged. But just because you’re forgoing the endless shenanigans that come with throwing a classic wedding doesn’t mean you can’t add a little tradition to your elopement.

The beauty of having an elopement ceremony is freedom. You can literally do whatever you want! But with so many options to choose from, here are a few adorable and traditional additions you can add to your unconventional ceremony.

The Vows

While the thought of having thousands of eyeballs staring at you as you exchange your promise of love may leave your hands shaking, this is such a beautiful addition to any ceremony and is often the foundation. This is the perfect time to open your heart and share something wonderfully unique to the partner standing in front of you.

traditional wedding ceremony vows — Credit: vowofthewild.com

Walk down the aisle

Just because you’re choosing to break away from tradition doesn’t mean you can’t do something conventional, like taking a walk down the aisle. Grab a few flower petals or a beautiful rug, and walk down the “aisle” to your favourite tune towards the one you love.

traditional wedding aisle — Credit: vowofthewild.com

Have a blast

There may be five people tearfully observing you say “I do,” but that doesn’t mean you can’t have a blast when the ceremony is all done and dusted. Grab a few of your closest friends and family – keeping it small, of course – and throw a little shindig that will allow you to celebrate with your squad. A few ideas may include a close friend’s cosy backyard or your favourite little restaurant.

Raise you glass

It is a celebration after all! Rope in the best man or maid of honour and get them to deliver a toast that will tuck at the heartstrings. There’s nothing more traditional than giving a big ‘ol cheers to the newlyweds with a delicious bottle of bubbly. If you’re heading to your favourite restaurant, make sure you double-check the alcohol restrictions before bringing that vintage bottle of JC Le Roux.

traditional wedding elopement — Credit: www.adrianariveram.com

The First Dance

If not for the tradition, do it for the romance. Having the first dance at your elopement can be a beautiful thing made even better by having those few special people around you. Embrace technology and hit play on your favourite song before pumping the tunes on your JBL speaker.

traditional wedding elopement first dance — Credit: Sarah Falugo

Feature Image: Days made of love