weddingplanning Archives

Planning a wedding can be both exciting and overwhelming. To help you stay organized and ensure nothing is overlooked, we’ve crafted a month-by-month checklist tailored for South African couples. Whether you’re dreaming of a beachside ceremony in Cape Town or a vineyard celebration in Stellenbosch, this guide will keep you on track.

12 Months Before: Laying the Foundation

Set Your Budget: Determine your overall budget and discuss contributions with family members if applicable.
Draft Your Guest List: Start compiling a list of guests to estimate the size of your wedding.
Choose Your Wedding Date: Select a date that works for you and your key vendors.
Research and Book Key Vendors: Secure your venue, photographer, and caterer early, as they can book up quickly.
Create a Wedding Vision Board: Gather inspiration for themes, colors, and styles that resonate with you.

6 Months Before: Finalizing Details

Send Save-the-Dates: Inform your guests about your wedding date and location.
Order Wedding Attire: Begin shopping for your wedding dress and the groom’s attire.
Book Additional Vendors: Secure services like florists, entertainment, and transportation.
Plan the Honeymoon: Research destinations and make necessary bookings.
Register for Gifts: Set up a wedding registry for your guests.

3 Months Before: Confirming Arrangements

Send Invitations: Mail out your wedding invitations with RSVP details.
Finalize Menu and Cake: Confirm your catering choices and cake design.
Schedule Hair and Makeup Trials: Book appointments to test your wedding day look.
Plan the Rehearsal Dinner: Choose a venue and send invitations to the bridal party.
Apply for a Marriage License: Ensure you meet all legal requirements for marriage in South Africa.

1 Month Before: Final Preparations

Confirm RSVPs: Follow up with guests who haven’t responded.
Create a Seating Plan: Organize your seating chart for the reception.
Have Final Dress Fitting: Ensure your wedding attire fits perfectly.
Prepare Payments: Organize payments for vendors and tips for the wedding day.
Pack for the Honeymoon: Get your travel documents and luggage ready.

By following this structured timeline, you can ensure a smooth and memorable wedding day. Remember, the key to a successful wedding is staying organized and enjoying the journey. Happy planning!

Featured Image: Canva

When planning your wedding in South Africa, one of the key decisions is whether to buy or hire suits for the groom and groomsmen. Both options have their advantages and costs, and the best choice depends on your budget, style preferences, and how often you anticipate wearing the suit again.

Buying a Tailored Suit

Pros:

Custom fit tailored to your measurements.
Personalized fabric and style choices.
Long-term investment for future events.

Cons:

Higher upfront cost.
May require additional alterations.

Cost:

A 2-piece suit from a reputable tailor like Kale & Co Bespoke starts at R15,500, excluding VAT.
Tailored suits from brands such as The Tux Tailor and Tip Top Tailor are available from R5,500 to R6,000.

Hiring a Suit

Pros:

Lower upfront cost.
No need for storage or maintenance.
Ideal for one-time events.

Cons:

Limited customization options.
May not fit as perfectly as a tailored suit.

Cost:

Suit hire prices range from R550 to R1,590, depending on the package and accessories included.

Cost Comparison

Option	Starting Price (ZAR)	Customization	Ideal For
Buying	R5,500 – R18,500	High	Frequent wear
Hiring	R550 – R1,590	Low	One-time events

Which Option is Right for You?

Buy a suit if you plan to attend multiple formal events or want a personalized fit and style.
Hire a suit if you’re looking for a cost-effective solution for a single event without the need for long-term storage.

Local Suit Hire and Tailoring Options

Mr Suit Hire: Offers a range of suits for hire starting from R550.
The Dress Suit: Provides complete outfit hire packages, including suit, shirt, waistcoat, cravat, hanky, and cuff links for R1,590.
Kale & Co Bespoke: Specializes in high-end tailored suits starting from R15,500.
The Tux Tailor: Offers tailored suits from R5,500.

Choosing between buying and hiring a suit depends on your personal preferences, budget, and how often you anticipate wearing the suit again. Consider the long-term value of owning a tailored suit versus the immediate cost savings of hiring. Whichever option you choose, ensure it aligns with your wedding vision and personal style.

Featured Image: Canva