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    How to be the best wedding MC
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    How to be the best wedding MC

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    When deciding on an MC for a wedding, many opt for their closest and loudest friends to lead the day. However, being the Master of ceremonies is a top job, and not everyone is cut out for it.

    If you’ve been asked to MC but you’re a bit nervous, fear not. All you need is some pre-planning and a lot of courage. Here are some tips to make sure you are on top of your game come wedding day.

    Fewer laughs, more sentimentality

    Weddings are all about sentimentality, so why not lean into it? Of course, you want to get guests laughing but humour is subjective, and some jokes will likely fail. This is why its best to be sincere and focus on the love of the bridal couple.

    Get the names right

    The most crucial rule with MCing is to get your facts right. There are many people involved in a wedding, and it’s easy to get things wrong if you’re not careful. Make sure you know how to pronounce the names and surnames of everyone giving a toast – you don’t want to offend your bestie’s new father-in-law!

    Custom-build your speech

    Don’t just turn to Google to write your speech and recycle the same tired jokes people have come to expect from weddings. Instead, spend some time thinking about what you’re going to say and get creative. It will help if you focus on the couple. Identify what is unique about them and their relationship, and then create something special based on that. 

    Keep an eye on the programme

    It’s always better to have a plan or programme of events written down to guide you on the day. Even if you know everything you need to say off by heart, having it written down will help to reassure you when your task begins. The running order and timing are extremely important. It is your job as MC to ensure that the guests are never left waiting for something, or that the food does not come out 20 minutes before it should be served. Know your schedule and keep to it.

    Be interactive

    Read through your speech as often as you can before you take the stage. This will ensure that you don’t spend the entire time looking down at a script. It will give you a chance to interact with the audience and make sure you use that shining personality that the bride and groom love about you! Remember, however, that you don’t have to stick strictly to your speech.

    Most importantly, no matter what happens, try to relax and enjoy the day. Just because you’re working the day, doesn’t mean you can’t have fun!

    ALSO SEE: Your guide to the perfect wedding seating plan

    Your guide to the perfect wedding seating plan

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    Plus-one or not? How to keep it fair and stress-free

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    Finalising your guest list is where wedding planning starts to feel very real  (and very personal). Between budgets, venue limits and family expectations, deciding who gets a plus-one can quickly become one of the trickiest parts of the process.

    The good news? There’s no one-size-fits-all rule. With a clear approach (and a little confidence), you can make decisions that feel fair, thoughtful and aligned with your vision for the day.

    What is a wedding plus-one, really?

    A “plus-one” simply means a guest is invited to bring someone along — usually a partner, but sometimes a date or companion. It’s a lovely gesture, but not a requirement for every guest.

    Start with your non-negotiables

    Before diving into individual decisions, get clear on your limitations:

    • Budget: Every extra guest affects catering, seating and rentals
    • Venue capacity: Space will naturally cap your numbers
    • Wedding style: A large, lively celebration vs an intimate gathering

    Once you know your boundaries, it becomes much easier to make consistent calls.

    Who should get a plus-one?

    While every wedding is different, there are a few widely accepted guidelines that help keep things fair and respectful.

    Couples in committed relationships

    If a guest is married, engaged or in a long-term relationship, it’s generally expected to include their partner, even if you’ve never met them. It acknowledges their relationship as a meaningful part of their life.

    Your bridal party

    Your inner circle has likely shown up for every fitting, plan and pre-wedding moment. Offering them a plus-one is a simple but meaningful way to say thank you.

    Guests travelling or coming solo

    If someone is travelling far or won’t know many people at your wedding, allowing them to bring a guest can make the experience far more comfortable and enjoyable.

    Close friends and immediate family

    For your nearest and dearest, a plus-one can feel like a natural extension of their invite, even if they’re not in a serious relationship.

    Who doesn’t necessarily need one?

    This is where it gets a little more flexible and where your discretion comes in.

    Guests in casual or new relationships

    If someone has only recently started dating, you’re not obligated to extend a plus-one. You can always reassess closer to the wedding if things become more serious.

    Singles who know plenty of guests

    If your friend group overlaps or your family is tight-knit, solo guests are unlikely to feel alone — meaning a plus-one isn’t essential.

    Coworkers or distant connections

    If you’re inviting colleagues or acquaintances, it’s perfectly acceptable to keep the invite limited. Just make sure you’re consistent across the group.

    The golden rule: be consistent

    If there’s one thing that avoids awkward conversations, it’s consistency.

    For example:

    • All married and cohabiting couples get a plus-one
    • Only the bridal party receives one regardless of relationship status
    • Or, no plus-ones beyond serious relationships

    Whatever you decide, apply it across the board. It makes your choices easier to explain and easier for guests to accept.

    How to make it clear on your invitations

    Your invitation should do the talking for you.

    • Named guest only? That person is invited solo
    • “And Guest”? They have a plus-one
    • Both names listed? You’re inviting a specific couple

    You can also clarify your policy on your wedding website to avoid any confusion (or last-minute requests).

    When you can’t offer everyone a plus-one

    If your guest list is tight, don’t feel guilty. It’s completely acceptable to limit plus-ones, especially if you’re prioritising intimacy or working within a strict budget.

    If guests ask, a kind and honest response goes a long way: “We would have loved to include everyone, but due to venue limitations, we’ve had to keep things quite intimate.”

    ALSO SEE: Wedding guest dress code explained

    Wedding guest dress code… explained

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    Your guide to the perfect wedding seating plan

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    If you’ve just made it past the potential minefield that is the guest list, here’s your next challenge: How are you going to seat everyone? Round tables? Long ones? One long banquet table? Goodness. Read on to set your mind free from all these decisions…

    1. DANCE FLOOR FIRST!
    This is your starting point. The most popular – and effective – option is to plonk your dance floor in the centre of the room. Then you’ll position the band or DJ against the wall. If your venue doesn’t allow for this, you can place the dance floor at one end of the room, centred and backed up against a wall.

    2. FIND YOUR TABLES
    Choose the shape and size of your tables – but regardless of this, make sure the two of you are in a central spot that your guests can see. Figure out how many guests fit at each table, to determine how many tables you will need.

    3. THE FLOOR PLAN
    Start with yourself and your SO – you get the best seats in the house, whether that means with the best view or closest to the bar (it’s been a long few months!) Then arrange your tables as symmetrically as possible – in a U-shape around the centre dance floor or fill one end of the space (if the dance floor is on the one side).

    4. VIPs
    Reserve the tables closest to the two of you for your immediate families, and set aside tables further from the band/DJ for older guests. The less desirable seats should be saved for your friends. Keep people together who will enjoy the time together – perhaps there are family members who haven’t seen each other in a while?

    5. THE BAR
    This will also be dependent on your venue, but as a rule of thumb, the bar should be away from the entrance to avoid possible congestion. If you have more than one bar (one bar with two bartenders for every 100 guests is a good point of measure), then position one close to the dance floor and another one on the other side of the room.

    6. ARRANGE THE NAMES
    Now that the hard work is over, how are you going to let your guests know where to sit on the day? If you have more than 75 guests, displaying their names in alphabetical order is the most convenient option, to eliminate confusion and unnecessary time spent at the seating chart. To make it more exciting, give each guest a refreshing cocktail or glass of bubbly along with their table number – it really sets the tone for a festive reception!

    ALSO SEE: How to save money on wedding flowers without sacrificing style

    How to save money on wedding flowers without sacrificing style

    Written by Claire Davies for Wedding Etc. Summer 2020

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    In Advice

    The latest marriage statistics in South Africa

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    New data from Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) highlights a clear shift in South Africa’s relationship landscape: fewer people are getting married, while divorce rates are increasing, with women continuing to file for the majority of cases.

    But beyond the numbers, the data also points to something more meaningful: couples are approaching marriage with greater intention, and individuals are making more informed decisions about long-term commitment.

    Marriages continue to decline

    In 2024, South Africa recorded 102 373 marriages and unions, down 2.6% from 2023. Since 2015, marriages have decreased by 28.5%.

    Civil marriages followed the same pattern, declining to 97 510 in 2024. This steady drop suggests that many couples are choosing to marry later, taking more time before formalising their relationships.

    Divorce numbers are rising

    A total of 24 202 divorces were granted in 2024 — an 8.9% increase from the previous year.

    Women filed for 57.2% of these divorces, continuing a consistent trend. This reflects greater access to legal processes, as well as increased financial independence and decision-making power.

    Provincial breakdown

    Divorce cases initiated by women were highest in Gauteng (31.0%), followed by the Western Cape (18.6%) and KwaZulu-Natal (13.8%).

    Who is filing for divorce?

    Most women filing for divorce in 2024 were ending their first marriage (89.1%). The highest number of divorces occurred among women aged 40 to 44, followed by those aged 35 to 39.

    In most cases (70.7%), women were younger than their spouses.

    Employment and independence

    Of the women who filed for divorce, 44.6% were employed, many in professional, technical, managerial, and administrative roles. Financial stability gives individuals more control over major life decisions, including whether to stay in a marriage.

    When marriages end

    The largest share of divorces (26.7%) occurred in marriages lasting five to nine years, followed by 10 to 14 years (21.3%). Overall, 41.7% of divorces involved marriages that lasted less than a decade.

    A shift towards intentional commitment

    While the number of marriages is declining, the data suggests a move towards more considered, intentional unions. Many couples are choosing to marry later, after establishing careers and gaining life experience.

    ALSO SEE: (Don’t) put a ring on it

    (Don’t) put a ring on it

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    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

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    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

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    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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    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

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