Advice Archives | Page 15 of 55

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What to consider before planning a backyard wedding

August 18, 2020 No Comments

Microweddings are all the rage currently. As the pandemic continues, couples have to be selective with their guests and are opting for smaller weddings.

If you’re struggling to find an appropriate venue or simply want to stay closer to home, your backyard might just be the perfect place to say ‘I do’. You’ll be in pretty good company with this choice. Celebs like Hilary Duff and Matthew Koma, Ellen DeGeneres and Portia De Rossi, and Beyonce and Jay-Z all tied the knot in their homes.

There are so many benefits to holding your wedding at home, but also drawbacks. Here’s what you need to consider.

Flexibility:

By picking your home as your wedding venue, you have the choice of any wedding date. You don’t have to hope your venue is available on a certain day or settle for another.

Beyond this, you can work with your guests availability. Now that most people are working from home, they are likely to be a lot more lenient with their schedules.

Cutting costs:

With your backyard as your wedding venue, there is no need to rent out a spot. You also save on transport to and from the venue. This can save quite a few thousands that you can put towards something else like your food, decor or outfits for your big day. You also avoid extra costs like corkage fees, cleaning up afterwards and possible fines if your wedding is too loud or runs overtime.

At the same time, you might have extra costs you wouldn’t have to consider with a traditional venue. You will have to cover the costs of renting seating, cutlery and crockery. You may also need extra lighting installed.

Rules and regulations:

Most venues have rules on what decorations you may put up, when your music must end and how many guests you may cater for. By hosting your big day in your backyard, you eliminate these concerns.

However, you do have to consider zoning regulations to make sure you’re even allowed to hold a wedding in your home. You’re also working with a smaller space and may have to trim your guest list to accommodate this. Bathrooms may be in short supply, as weddings typically require one bathroom per 50 people.

The parking situation will be a major drawback, as you need a place for your guests to leave their cars that does not inconvenience neighbours. You could arrange for them to park at a nearby park or church and then bus them to your home, but this will be an extra cost.

Feature image: Unsplash

In Advice

Stunning South African venues to help you reduce decor costs

August 17, 2020 No Comments

You may love the idea of an intimate dinner in an outdoor barn or the thought of waves lapping your feet as you say your vows, but often these spaces come as they are – meaning you’re left with the additional costs of decorating your chosen venue too.

If you’re working on a tight budget or prefer having a fully kitted venue from the get-go, check out these beautiful spaces around South Africa.

Planet Restaurant & Bar, Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel

Opulent is the only word that can describe this luxe eatery situated at the Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel in Cape Town. Dotted with a number of majestic arches and boasting an intricately carved ceiling and large windows, it’s a well-lit space for a lunch-time fête. When the sun goes down, the room transforms into a nocturnal haven with sparkling light fixtures and a crystal-studded floor. Your guests will enjoy the warmth from the marble fireplace at the bar area, an ideal spot for welcome drinks.

Website: belmond.com

2 La Maison and La Grange, Morells Boutique Estate

Morrells Boutique Estate is a chic French-inspired sanctuary in the heart of Johannesburg boasting not one but two amazing venues that are perfect for your European-style wedding. Experience an escape to the town of Provence at La Maison, which houses a piano room, cigar lounge, chapel, rose garden and olive grove. Prefer a more relaxed vibe? La Grange’s quaint bistro sports eclectic furnishings and is perfect for coffee catch-ups when you slip away from the dance floor.

Website: morrells.co.za

3 The Venue, Casa Labia

Feel like royalty at this gorgeous Muizenberg mansion that was once the seaside residence of the Italian plenipotentiary Count Natale Labia. Intricate wallpaper and stately chandeliers add to the grandeur of its interior while the estate also houses an art gallery so guests can indulge in a spot of culture while celebrating your union.

Website: casalabia.co.za

4 The Pearl Room, The Oyster Box

An all-white zone decked out in glistening mirrors, the Pearl Room is every minimalist’s dream venue. Sleek lines and metallic touches form an eye-catching impact that will transport you into a snow-white world not unreminiscent of Elsa’s snow palace in Frozen – without the chill!

Website: oysterboxhotel.com

5 Forest Lodge Boma, Grootbos Nature Reserve

If you’ve been yearning to have your nuptials beneath a canopy of greenery, Grootbos Nature Reserve’s Forest Lodge Boa is an utopian reception site. Paraffin lanterns and cotton linen keep it simple while braziers add a touch of warmth and radiance to this enchanted forest setting.

Website: grootbos.com

Feature image: Instagram / Belmond Mount Nelson

In Advice

Suit mistakes to avoid

August 13, 2020 No Comments

Traditionally in a heterosexual marriage a woman wears a dress while the groom wears a suit, the expansion of marriage rights across the world and de-gendering of clothing has led to a surge in suits for all genders in the wedding party.

A suit can look smart, well-put together and well-fitting if you follow very simple rules, otherwise it can easily become a bit of a mess.

Here are our tips for making sure you look smart on your big day.

Do not wait until the last minute

Although it might not be as intricate as a traditional wedding gown, finding exactly what you want in a suit and getting it fitted is unlikely to be a quick affair.

You’ll have a lot of other things to do in the run up to the wedding so you don’t want this to be a rush.

Do not avoid the tailor

A tailored suit can with the perfect fit is incredibly important. If you’re getting a suit made then this will be part of the process. Even if you decide to buy off the rack, take it to a tailor. There is always something that can be tweaked.

Do not go overboard on accessories

Since suits are simple ensembles, personalising them is tricky to get right. A big way to make your suit reflect your personality is through accessories but be careful not to go overboard and include all of them. Be judicious, a fun pair of socks is a good idea but having flashy suspenders, socks and a pocket square could make you look more clown and less classy.

Choose the right shoes

The wrong shoe can throw off the whole outfit. Make sure the colour works, they are comfortable and speak to the style you’re going for rather than just picking out the most “formal” option you can find.

If you’re going to wear heels with your suit, consider this when getting your pants leg tailored.

Getting creative

If you have a look around there are beautiful colourful, patterned suits out there for the brave and bold. While these can work for the right people, make sure it is something you want and are comfortable with. Wedding photos will be around forever, so ensure that even an exciting suit reflects you and your personality and is not just something you chose on a whim.

Image: Unsplash

In Advice

Business in the front, party at the back: Peekaboo cakes

August 11, 2020 No Comments

Most wedding cakes are similar, no matter the style you go for. They often give off the same vibe. However, with a peekaboo wedding cake, you can get the best of both worlds.

Two-sided wedding cakes, otherwise known as peekaboo cakes, allow for the elegance and decadence of a normal wedding cake, with the added splash of personality and pizazz of extra decorations. You could add an interest or hobby that you share as a couple, or simply have one side be showier than the other.

Whichever option you decide on, a two-sided cake will add a personal touch to any dessert table and will stand out from all other wedding cakes. Your cake will be remembered for years to come.

Here are some two-sided cakes, to inspire you:

https://www.instagram.com/p/B4AEznmlSum/

https://www.instagram.com/p/CDX2lvPBBeB/

https://www.instagram.com/p/B4AYsb8BTMc/

https://www.instagram.com/p/BzaHZQqjE49/

https://www.instagram.com/p/ByN–RFFu3G/

https://www.instagram.com/p/BygKr-QiBdJ/

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bx0amxAB10u/

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bu-xCDqAD_X/

https://www.instagram.com/p/BlOyvWSBjsK/

https://www.instagram.com/p/BxuZIHgBPAk/

https://www.instagram.com/p/BYrTe_jHOby/

https://www.instagram.com/p/BnNUzTUHSAu/

https://www.instagram.com/p/BjOZDGuBlUx/

Image: Unsplash

In Advice

Coronavirus-era wedding guest etiquette

August 11, 2020 No Comments

It’s likely that the coronavirus pandemic will change the way of weddings forever. Now more than ever, it is important to abide by certain rules and regulations in order to stay safe. This means that wedding etiquette must change too.

Whether you’re attending a very small function in person or you’re watching a virtual ceremony, there are certain aspects of etiquette you’ll want to follow. Lest your friends or family consider you rude; you wouldn’t want that right?

If you’re wondering what coronavirus-era wedding guest etiquette looks like, not to worry. Here’s what to do:

For attending a wedding in person:

– Keep those masks on!

It doesn’t matter if you’re struggling to hear each other, or if people can’t see you smiling. Protecting each other’s health and wellbeing is the most important thing.

– Greeting

You may feel it a bit uncomfortable to not congratulate the couple with a hug, or greet other guests with a handshake or hug too. However, safety regulations dictate that no such physical contact should occur. This means you don’t have to worry about being rude when it comes to greeting. Stick to a chat or an elbow bump.

– Not attending

If you’ve been invited but do not feel comfortable attending an in-person function, be sure to let the couple know as soon as you possibly can. Since events are limited in the number of people who may be present, the couple will surely have somebody who can fill your seat. Be polite but honest that the circumstances make you uncomfortable and worried for your health. They will most definitely understand.

You may, however, still need to send a gift to the couple. Depending on how close you are, you can decide if it is appropriate or required.

– Best not share photos

The couple may have had to cut important guests from the list in order to abide by minimum number requirements. Avoid offending other friends and family by refraining from posting any images online, unless the couple directly gives you permission to do so.

For attending a virtual wedding:

– RSVP

It remains important to let the couple know you will be attending, despite the fact that it won’t affect their budget. This is simply good manners.

– Don’t share the link

If you’ve been sent a Zoom link or anything of the sort, do not share it with anyone who has not been invited to the wedding by the couple. Even though it won’t make much of a difference, it is their personal choice and their privacy that you are disrespecting if you share the link with uninvited guests.

– Do not attend in your PJ’s

Despite the fact that you’re cozy on your couch, you shouldn’t attend the wedding in sloppy attire. You don’t have to get fully dressed up, but be sure you look presentable.

– Gifts

It could be more difficult to give a gift, however, a monetary gift is quick and easy. If you’d like to send an item as a gift, be sure to let the couple know that you will be doing so.

– Congratulations

You may not be able to speak during the livestream, as it may be a bit messy and noisy if the couple unmuted all guests at the same time. However, you should definitely send them a congratulatory message either via text or you could film yourself sending some well wishes. It will mean a lot to the newlyweds.

Image: Pexels

In Advice

Here’s how to plan the perfect first dance

August 11, 2020 No Comments

As one of the most memorable moments of your wedding, the perfect first dance not only opens the floor but is a special and intimate moment between the newlyweds which has become an important wedding tradition over the decades.

It stems from many years ago when ballroom dancing was an acquired skill everyone had to have, and the first dance at a ball or special event was usually done by a royal guest of honour to open the floor.

Nowadays, couples typically pick a song suited to their personal love story and practice a routine before the time to entertain their guests. But to make your first dance special, there needs to be a touch of originality. Since not everyone is a skilled ballroom dancer, it can be challenging to put on the performance you want.

Here are some easy steps to getting your first dance-off on the right foot.

STEP 1 – THE VIBE

What kind of story do you want to tell with your first dance? As we’ve said, this is a crucial moment to show off the type of couple you are. You could go romantic and sultry with a tango, or cheesy with an 80s-inspired throwback that references moves like the electric slide and the hammer dance. If you’re more emotional, a slow dance is perfect whereas a classic couple might enjoy a foxtrot. Each dance style gives a different vibe and will determine the music choice and choreography going forward.

STEP 2 – THE SONG

The song you choose for your first dance should be representative of the personal relationship you have with your partner. This doesn’t necessarily mean you need to choose a completely original song, but you should feel that it speaks to you and your partner’s feelings towards each other. You also need to keep in mind the length of the song and the beat for your dance.

STEP 3 – THE CHOREOGRAPHY

You can either choose to have a professional dance instructor choreograph a dance for you and your partner, or do it yourself. If you want to choreograph your dance, however, you need to start as soon as possible as the more time you have the more time you will have to learn the steps. This can be a good time for you and your partner to become even closer during the wedding planning, through learning to dance together.

STEP 3 – THE DANCE

When it comes to your big day there will be a swarm of emotions, and executing a rehearsed dance may be a challenge, despite all your practice. Don’t feel discouraged by this, and, instead, focus on your partner and all the moments you’ve shared and the ones you’ve yet to share. A perfect dance will look different for everyone and should be about celebrating with your loved ones.

Smaller factors to keep in mind:

– Take your wedding shoes into consideration when planning your wedding dance. Practice in them a few times before your big day.
– When deciding on your wedding outfit, think about whether you will be able to move around and dance comfortably in it.
– Make sure to speak with your DJ and MC beforehand to let them know how and when you would like your dance to happen.
– Give yourselves enough time to practice, and remember to relax and allow for mistakes to happen in your first few tries.

Image: Unsplash

In Advice

Brow lamination: the easy way to feathery brows

August 7, 2020 No Comments

While the term ‘laminating’ may remind you of your days at school, it’s gotten a new upgrade in the beauty world. Brow lamination has risen as a less-permanent alternative to microblading, allowing people to have the eyebrows of their dreams.

If you’ve got pesky eyebrows that won’t stay in place no matter how much eyebrow gel you apply, brow lamination might just be for you. Brides who get these procedure done can rest assured their eyebrows will be on point for their wedding day.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CDh0nU5J1GA/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

What is brow lamination?

Brow lamination is almost like a perm for your eyebrows, which will leave the hairs structured into a particular shape. The hairs are brushed straight up and a chemical treatment is applied to retain it. Once removed, the brow hairs appear fluffy and feathery.

At first, the brows can appear quite overwhelming and straight. However, they settle within a few days.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B4x953nnMJG/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Who is the ideal customer?

This treatment is ideal for people with bushy brows that follow irreguar patterns as it trains the hair to go in one direction. It’s also good for those with finer, more sparse brows as it can create the effect of fulller brows.

Another bonus is that it’s not permanent, as it typically lasts for eight weeks as your eyebrow hairs grow out. Microblading, however, lasts for about a year and the procedure can be painful, which deters many.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CC8-INkjDQ0/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

How does it work?

This treatment is similar to a lash lift, and is not painful although it may slightly irritate sensitive skin. Two treatment solutions are applied to the brows. First, a keratin-infused straightening treatment is brushed through the hairs and left on for 20 minutes to soften them and make them more malleable. In the next step, the hairs are brushed into the desired shape and another solution is applied to keep them in place.

https://www.instagram.com/tv/CCOXd-tHuDK/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

How to maintain it?

For the first 24 hours after your appointment, it is important to avoid getting your brow hairs wet. Thus, one should avoid exercising, swimming, going out in the rain or wetting their face when bathing. You should also condition the brows daily with a lash serum, ask your beautician to recommend a good product.

Feature image: Unsplash

In Advice

How to wash your hair like a colourist

August 6, 2020 No Comments

Ever wondered why your hair stays cleaner, smoother and glossier after a salon wash? Well, wonder no more. Here’s how you can wash your hair like a pro at home:

Detangle first

Before you wet your hair, it’s essential you detangle hair gently first. Starting at the ends, gently work your way up to the roots so that you don’t have to detangle hair when it’s wet, and therefore more vulnerable. If you have some extra time, apply a few drops of a nourishing oil, like almond, to the ends and distribute with your comb as you work upwards.

How to wash your hair like a colourist — Source: Unsplash

Lather up

Something that’s seemingly easy to do has a right and a wrong way too. Taking your time is key in making sure you’re washing your scalp properly, and being super gentle when creating a lather with your shampoo. Don’t rub hair vigorously, but rather focus on washing your scalp properly and then squeezing the shampoo through the lengths. If it doesn’t foam up right away, add a little more water to your scalp and start massaging again. If it’s absolutely necessary, shampoo for a second time.

Honeymoon hair

Using products specifically designed for colour-treated hair will make a world’s difference in keeping your colour as vibrant as it looked on your wedding day. Look for products that have a low pH level, which will enable better colour retention and softer, smoother strands.

The Invigo Color Brilliance range from Wella is a great option for those wanting to keep their salon colour in tip top shape. With 7 weeks of colour protection and instant vibrancy, you’ll get high-performance results at home, while keeping your wallet happy. Find it HERE.

Rinse, rinse, rinse

The biggest difference between a salon wash and an at-home wash, is also the most simple – the rinse. Women, especially brides with a million things to do, are strapped for time and rush the process of properly rinsing shampoo and conditioner from their hair. By rinsing the product properly and making sure there’s no more residue on your scalp, your roots will stay fresh longer and you won’t need to wash as often.

Never skip conditioner

Hair that’s moisturised will reflect light better, so that you hair looks shinier and healthier. That said, less is definitely more in this case, so go easy on the conditioner. Take a small amount and only apply it to the ends, so that it doesn’t weigh your roots down. Then, take a deep breath and rinse with cold water to lock the cuticles and boost the shine.

Written by: Leandri de Kock

Feature image: Unsplash

In Advice

Have a camping-themed wedding

August 6, 2020 No Comments

If you and your partner are avid campers, you might want your big day to reflect your adventurous spirits. With summer drawing near, it’s the perfect time to have an outdoor wedding.

Celebrating your love for each other with your friends and family out in nature, doing what you love. What more could you want?

You are also likely to save some money as your down-to-earth decor, food and attire will be more budget-friendly. Here are some tips to help you plan.

Firstly, you’ll need to keep some practical things in mind:

– If your wedding is in a forest, mountain or bushveld location, the terrain might be uneven and high heels are not ideal.

– There will probably be bugs and mosquitoes!

– Only make fires where it is legal and safe to do so.

– Check the weather for wind and rain.

– If it is a remote location, clear directions will need to be given to guests and vendors.

– If you expect guests to hike anywhere at all, make sure everyone is fit and healthy enough to do so. Also, make sure everyone is told this information explicitly and are comfortable with it.

How to set up the perfect camping style wedding:

– Attire

You can decide how formal or informal you want the wedding to be. It is likely to be slightly more informal, as camping is usually a low-key activity. Dress comfortably, but don’t skimp! A boho style works well. You can still wear that magical dress – it’s your day after all. Inform your guests that ‘smart casual’ is accepted.

– Food

Camp food time! Think slow roasts, pies or even something as simple as hot dogs or burgers. This is not a 5-star buffet. Don’t forget to roast marshmallows! Everything should be quick and easy, but flavourful and simply delicious. Speak to your caterer about what’s feasible for your location, and try stick with food that can be prepped off-site beforehand.

– Drinks

During summer, think cold and refreshing soft drinks and beers. Get creative with the drinks station to keep with the theme, such as a rowboat or hammock. You can also use picnic baskets to hold drinks or hand out coffee flasks or travel mugs for guests to drink from.

– Decor

This is where rough meets chic. You can have all the adventure, plus all the beauty! Let nature be your backdrop, and keep extras minimal. Decorate tables with wooden items and use theme-inspired pieces like lanterns, flashlights and boots for a cute feel. Stick with greens, browns and other neutral colours to blend with the environment.

Images: Pinterest

Featured image: Unsplash

In Advice

How to have a spectacular lunch wedding

August 4, 2020 No Comments

In light of the national night-time curfew from 10pm to 4am during lockdown, wedding celebrations are looking a bit different. Even though large gatherings are not permitted yet, couples may be legally married at the Magistrate’s Office and then usually have a small intimate celebration with their immediate families.

If you don’t want to worry about breaking curfew, have a lunch celebration. Spring is drawing near which means lovely outdoor weather, perfect for a day time feast. Here are our top tips on how to pull it off.

Decide on indoor or outdoor

For a daytime wedding, both outdoor and indoor venues will work. Decide which you prefer, taking into consideration the season and the climate, as well as factors like space and accessibility for your guests. If you live in a very windy city, an outdoor option might not work if the area is not protected from wind. However, if you’re planning a summer wedding in an area with good weather, an outdoor venue will be exquisite.

Have a fabulous drinks station

Even though we are still under an alcohol ban, there’s no excuse for skimping on the drinks station. As the season’s change, cater appropriate drinks. Fresh fruit juices and cold ice teas are vital on a hot summer’s day, while coffee and tea are a much-needed comfort during winter.

Replace the dancing

Since the wedding will happen during the afternoon, your guests likely won’t be strutting their dance moves while the sun is still out. Instead, have fun games to entertain guests, like croquet, giant Jenga, giant Scrabble, or ring toss. If games are not your vibe, add a fun element with karaoke, or provide tables with board and card games.

Consider the weather

Depending on the season and what part of the country you live in, the weather probably differs throughout the day. Even in summer, late afternoons can get chilly, especially for older guests. Provide blankets, just in case. Similarly, if it’s very hot and an outdoor wedding, provide fabric umbrellas or Chinese fans for guests to cool down with. Take into account whether or not it is likely to rain and make sure there is a cover, if so.

Images: Pinterest

Featured image: Unsplash