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    Creative guest book ideas your guests will love

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    A wedding guest book does not have to mean pen and paper only. As weddings evolve and modernise, couples are looking for more creative ways to still incorporate traditional elements into their big day.

    The guest book allows you to preserve memories from your nearest and dearest. Traditionally, couples go for a hardcover book for guests to sign. However, this easily gets sidelined amid the various exciting points of a wedding.

    Make sure your guest book is a moment itself by offering a fun and creative way to sign. Besides encouraging more people to sign, having an alternative guest book allows you to have a creative and functional decor piece to display in your home and remind you of the good times.

    Here are some cute ideas:

    For the record:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CAk3DYKg8je/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Shake it like a polaroid picture:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CAiedwxHdl6/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Wait a minute, Mr Postman:

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

    The Bucket List:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CAdkjrTnO0I/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    You’re my world:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CAO2c4EgD9x/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Tile-tastic:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/Bxko56hjNgS/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Pretty as a puzzle:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/Bm0rBmUBj3g/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Let’s play a game:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CAhd4YSn6tm/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Take a seat:

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

    Surf’s up:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BvW4OLNgXrE/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Feature image: Instagram

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    In Advice

    4 ways to be kinder to your hair

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    There is finally time to whip your hair into shape during lockdown. Making simple changes to your hair care habits and being more conscious about the products we use will help in the journey to achieve vibrant colour, stronger hair and greater shine.

    1. Read the labels

    Let’s be honest, it’s no easy feat to decipher a product label. Instead, focus on what you don’t want in your product, or what you could be allergic to, and make sure it’s not present. Scan your formula for ingredients such as PPD, PPT and PTD – all colouring agents with similar chemical structures that could cause severe allergic reactions. Try to avoid sulphates and parabens in your hair care products as this could cause irritation and allergic reactions, so rather reach for ‘cleaner’ products – they’re also kinder to the Earth.

    Credit: Unsplash

    2. Choose colour wisely

    Healthy hair is associated with glossy, vibrant colour, which can more often than not only be achieved in a salon. When we can’t visit our favourite colourist, we need to make sure we prep our hair as best we can. Something to look forward to though, is the Koleston Perfect ME+ colour from Wella, which is free from harmful colour molecules, yet still able to provide you with brilliant colour and strong hair, thanks to PureBalance Technology. Make a stop at your closest Wella salon after lockdown to get salon ready locks.

    Credit: supplied

    3. Treat your tresses

    Like you give your skin an extra dose of TLC every now and then, remember to do the same for your hair. On days you plan to wash your hair at night, drench roots to ends in a mixture made of half a cup of honey and a quarter cup of olive oil. Heat the mixture, generously coat your hair and tie in to a bun. Once you are able to visit your nearest Wella salon, give their Element’s care system a try which is free of sulphates, parabens and artificial colourants!

    Credit: supplied

     4. Let your hair down

    If you generally keep your hair tied up or pinned back, you’ll know the stress it can cause on your scalp. To give your roots a rest, sleep with your hair loose and invest in a silk pillowcase to avoid unnecessary snagging and moisture loss overnight.

    Credit: Pexels

    To shop Elements online: https://bit.ly/2Ls2XYi

    To shop the sale: https://bit.ly/3epZ6s7

    To find a Wella salon: http://bit.ly/2lHp3wj

    Feature image: Unsplash

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    The pros and cons of wearing your mother’s wedding dress

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    Most, if not all, mothers dream of the day their daughters will walk down the aisle. Often, they also imagine that their little girls will be happy to wear their wedding dresses from decades passed.

    While this is an easy ‘yes’ for some brides-to-be, others may be a bit on the fence. Don’t feel bad about it! There is nothing wrong with wanting to be completely original on your special day.

    A practice of tradition for some and sentiment for others, wearing your mothers wedding dress can have a lot of meaning behind it. However, you may (like many others) be willing to give up this custom in favour of individuality and self-expression.

    To help you weigh up your options, here are some pros and cons of wearing your mother’s wedding dress:

    Pros: 

    – Your mom will be over the moon 

    This is a beautiful way to honour your mother, and it will definitely make her happier than words can explain. A mother loves to see herself in her daughter.

    – Money and time saved 

    Finding a wedding dress takes a lot of time. It includes several trips to various bridal stores and many fittings too. All of this will vanish if you use your mother’s wedding dress.

    You know what else will disappear? The hole in your pocket in the shape of a gown. The money directed towards your dress will dramatically decrease.

    – Possibility of alterations

    You could alter the dress to keep the pieces of your moms dress that you love, and include parts of a dress that you’d love personally. You could get the best of both worlds.

    Cons: 

    – Less exciting 

    While shopping may be a big task, it is very exciting. Your girls and your mom, all the special ladies in your life, accompany you to find the dress of your dreams. You may miss out on that experience.

    – May make you feel overly cautious 

    Of course all brides are careful when it comes to their wedding dresses. However, when it’s an heirloom passed down to you, you may feel extra-stiff on your wedding day as you don’t want to spill anything on it or damage it in any way. This could make you a bit uncomfortable on your special day.

    – Lack of individuality and orginality 

    You may feel a bit like it’s not your dress. This will be unpleasant and can put a damper on the day.

    Image: Unsplash

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    How to make your livestream wedding special

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    Many couples are no longer willing to wait for the nationwide lockdown to come to a close to have their wedding. Most are now opting for a livestream wedding, which allows their guests to attend their nuptials while safely social distancing.

    If you’re one of those who are in love and eager to get your married life started, then perhaps you’re leaning towards a Zoom ceremony. But since this is one of the most common wedding trends these days, you’ll likely want to do something to ensure that yours stands out from the rest.

    Here are some ways to make your livestream wedding special:

    Invite everyone

    Since you no longer have to be held back by the finances that comes with inviting people, you’re now able to invite absolutely everyone. The more the merrier! You’ll feel extra special once you see how many people turn out for your special day.

    Have everyone dress for the occassion

    This includes you. Everyone should be in their very best attire (no sweats allowed!).  After all, it’s one of the most important days of your life. If everyone gets dressed up, it’ll truly feel like a celebration.

    Don’t skip the toasts

    Your best man, maid of honour, and whoever else was going to give a toast should all still do so. Many people have slacked on the formalities on Zoom weddings, so to take it up a notch from the rest keep as much from the original plan as possible.

    Decorate

    Create a pretty backdrop for your wedding. Light some candles, play some music, add some fairy lights, do as much as you can!

    Consider all platforms 

    Some couples who have used Zoom found that the free version only allows for 40 minutes before it times out. If you don’t want a forced intermission, consider paying for the full version or using a different platform.

    Also read: The legality of Zoom weddings in SA 

    Image: Twitter / Tyler Thompson

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    Why micro-weddings will be big in 2021

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    Weddings, like a whole lot of other industries, have been heavily affected by the coronavirus pandemic. Experts say it’s likely to continue to change as trends adapt to current affairs. It’s safe to say that most couples who planned to get married in 2020 either cancelled or postponed their weddings. Some might have pushed through to get married online or at home.

    Couples who are looking to tie the knot next year, however, might also have to look into the best way to do that. Destination weddings, for example, might not be possible for a whole lot longer than we think, as well as honeymoons abroad.

    One wedding trend that’s been around for years but has recently become the go-to is the micro-wedding. That’s because some countries like the US and Sweden have not gone into lockdown, but are under social distancing regulations which mean they may move around freely but certain rules apply. Hence, those who got married had to scale down.

    Micro-weddings have many benefits, and we believe it’s only going to get more popular. Here’s why.

    It’s cost-effective

    It’s simple math: the more guests, the more expenses. Having a small gathering of 10 to 20 guests means cheaper catering. A smaller venue means less decor, and so it goes on. After the coronavius crippled the world economy, many couples might seek to save a few bucks and this is the perfect way.

    It’s more intimate

    Having to single out only your closest family members or friends will ensure that the event is more meaningful and intimate. You will have time to hang out with everyone individually, and create special memories with the people that really matter.

    Fewer practical arrangements

    This is a big one for many brides who plan their own weddings. Everyone knows how stressful all the arrangements can be, and more often than not, things go wrong. With fewer people comes less responsibility, and you’ll have more time to just relax and enjoy the time leading up to the wedding.

    It’s less pressure

    Modern society can easily turn into a situation where everything is a competition. Every couple tries to outshine the next and expectations from others can put a lot of pressure on the couple. Micro-weddings shift the focus back where it belongs: on the couple who want to celebrate their love.

    Image: Instagram

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    Tips for writing a wedding toast

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    Since you’ve been given the honour of speaking at a loved ones wedding, you probably don’t want to dissapoint them. However, as much as a wedding toast is privilage it can also be a daunting challenge.

    “There are so many things that could go wrong,” is likely along the lines of what you’re thinking. It seems that wedding toasts commonly take one of two paths. On the one hand they are either extremely memorable and everyone is in tears (of laughter or emotion), or on the other they are disastrous, inappropriate and downright cringe-worthy.

    Of course, you’ll be trying your hardest to be the former, rather than the latter. To ensure you’re giving the best toast possible, here are some tips:

    – Open with how you know the newly weds 

    It will give context to your speech for those who are not aware of who you are, and is generally considered to be more a police gesture.

    – Address both partners

    Just because only one of them have been through thick and thin with you, doesn’t mean you get to completely ignore the other! They are sharing this special day and you have been asked to share it with them. It would be rude to make it about only one of them.

    – Be sure to add personal touches 

    Weddings are very personal occasions. The couple and the audience will love hearing your anecdotes and emotions and they will repond better than if you used a generic speech that could have been taken staight of of the internet.

    – Things you shouldn’t include

    There are some serious no-go’s when it comes to wedding toasts. These are: crude language, inappropriate or explicit stories, and anything about the exes of those getting married. No matter what. Do not include these in your speech.

    – Be aware of time 

    We all know that nobody really wants to listen to a long, dragged out speech at a wedding. People will get bored. Be sure to stick to a reaonable time frame, maybe 3 to 6 minutes long. Don’t make it too short either though, it will seem as though you were uninterested and didn’t take the job seriously!

    – No inside jokes 

    Most of the audience wouldn’t understand the joke, and the reaction will not be what you want it to be… I can assure you. Don’t add it, it’s not worth it.

    Image: Unsplash

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    Creative ways to serve your wedding drinks

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    When guests toast to the newlyweds, it should be in style. It’s easy to pour some bubbly in a glass, but where’s the fun in that?

    Since signature drinks have grown in popularity over the years, many couples are opting for creative, aesthetically pleasing ways to serve up their beverages. If you’ve got a particular wedding theme, extending it to your drinks is a great way to make your wedding even more cohesive.

    Here are some fun and creative ways to serve up your drinks and give your guests liquid courage.

    A champagne tower:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B_r6P5HlrAe/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Cotton candy dreams:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B_t-8orDsg_/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Wall of wonder:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B9z13cQpyZF/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Floral fancy:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B_q7g7GD2oQ/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    One tequila, two tequila:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B_1IYJSlrtn/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Go coco-nutty:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B67Ot5Yqsqd/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    DIY:

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

    Popping prosecco popsicles:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B_o5Q8cqLfK/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Tutti-frutti:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B_X5tItpDHu/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    When life hands you lemons:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B_XgAD1FA6G/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Feature image:

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    The legality of Zoom weddings in SA

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    Globally, the popularity of Zoom weddings is increasing by the day. With the coronavirus pandemic essentially ensuring that no physical ceremony can take place, couples have limited options and therefore opt for online nuptials. However, the question of legality never seems to be brought up.

    There are certain requirements for a legal and valid marriage in South Africa. Some of these include:

    1. You must ensure you are both legally allowed to marry, and must understand the legal consequences of marriage
    2. You have to present all the required documents (including ID documents of both partners, divorce orders from previous marriages or death certificates if applicable) to the officiant
    3. Your marriage officer must be authorised in terms of Act No. 25 of 1961
    4. Your marriage must be conducted in the presence of at least two witnesses
    5. The witnesses and the marriage officer must sign the marriage register after the solemnisation of the marriage, and you as the newly-weds should be given a handwritten marriage certificate

    If we consider the last two points, we might notice that these are more difficult to fulfil while self-isolating.

    When the nationwide lockdown began, Minister Aaron Motssoaledi of Home Affairs said that no marriage certificates would be issued during the lockdown. He said that those who want to get married should wait until the lockdown is over, and in fact even joked about it saying that “maybe the 21 days will also give you time to think whether you want to get married or not.”

    With marriage certificates not being issued, point number 5 is pretty much impossible to fufill with a Zoom wedding. Point number 4 may be equally difficult if you don’t live with at least two additional roommates (which most couples don’t).

    Point 4 talks about being in the presence of two witnesses. This does not specify that the witnesses have to be there physically, although it might make the most sense to assume that is what it means. If we stay on the safe side and assume the witnesses have be there physically, then you’re probably unable to fulfil point 4 too.

    In addition, it may be difficult to find an authorised officiant willing to perform your marriage, since marriage was so clearly warned against by the government when the lockdown started.

    As a result of these stumbling blocks, Zoom weddings may be a bit of a grey area in terms of legality. However, it’s safest (and most likely correct) to assume that Zoom weddings cannot be taken as legally valid in terms of the law.

    Either way though, a zoom wedding may still be worth it for symbolic reasons! It can be used to celebrate what your day would have been, or to simply bring everyone together as you planned to in the first place.

    Here are some zoom weddings for inspiration:

    Image: Twitter / @tarekjpeg

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    In Accessories

    Lashes for days and how to care for them

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    False lashes can make the world of a difference to your make-up look, but not many people know how to take care of them. Here are a few tips and tricks to help get the best wear from your lashes and make them last longer.

    Trim them

    Not all eye shapes are the same size and you may find your strip lash doesn’t fit. This is completely normal to slightly trim the strip with a pair of scissors. Besides looking more natural, they will also be way more comfortable on the eye.

    Skip the mascara

    With lashes that great, you don’t need to apply a coat of mascara. We’re not saying you can’t, but it will definitely help your lashes last longer without the added layers of mascara to remove once you’re done using them.

    Use tweezers

    A pair of tweezers are always handy to help you apply your falsies. It will help to accurately place the lashes as close to your natural lash line as possible without messing up the rest of your makeup.

    Never sleep with them

    Always, and we repeat, always, remove your lashes before going to bed. Similarly to removing your makeup, fake lashes are no different so take them off with the rest of your face before bed. It also helps to clean your lashes from any lash glue or other makeup that may have gotten on it during your wear before putting them back in the box.

    Apply after eye shadow

    It is better to apply your false lashes at the end of your make-up look to avoid getting any fallout eye shadow onto them. This will ensure your lashes looking fresh and new once your make-up look is complete.

    Practice makes perfect

    The only way to become better at applying your falsies, is to do it on a regular basis. You’ll find the more often you use it, the quicker you’ll be, and since they’re reusable, as long as you take good care of them you wouldn’t need to buy some for months!

    We love:

    Pinky Goat Lashes from R149.00 (Clicks)

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B-1Uv4rlEA1/

    Huda Beauty Lashes from R335.00 (Huda Beauty Website)

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B2PyfauAse6/

    Eylure Lashes from R85.00 (Dischem)

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B-w5Ffdj-ZW/

    Ardell Lashes (Clicks)

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B87Si5eFwyk/

    By Yashna Balwanth

    Image: Unsplash

     

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    Quiz: What’s the perfect colour scheme for you?

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    Recently engaged? Congratulations! Now, the fun part begins. Planning a wedding is hard work, but getting to choose all the elements that make up your big day is an incredible experience. It can also be overwhelming. Don’t worry, we’re here to help.

    The colour scheme will determine the style, atmosphere, all the decor and even the bridal parties’ attire. You should choose a colour that reflects who you are and that makes you happy.

    Take this quiz to get to know yourself better and learn what colours will work for you:

    1. You’re at a party where you don’t know anyone. You:
    a) Introduce yourself to some strangers and end up making new friends
    b) Grab a seat and sip on a drink by yourself, until you see the friend who dragged you here
    c) Will never go to a party if you don’t know everyone who will be there!

    2. When planning an outfit, you:
    a) Go for the show-stoppers and like to experiment with looks
    b) Have a few favourite go-to items you always wear
    c) Always go with neutral tones, subtle and plain

    3. When you argue with your partner, you:
    a) Make sure they know exactly how you feel and why
    b) Usually stay level-headed and discuss things calmly
    c) Avoid conflict and end up apologising first

    4. Your ideal weekend activity is:
    a) Going out on the town to all the vibey spots
    b) Having a relaxed dinner with close friends
    c) Staying in, watching movies and eating treats

    5. You met your partner:
    a) By striking up a conversation at a party
    b) Through mutual friends
    c) A family member set you up with a blind date

    So, if you’ve chosen…

    Mostly a:

    You’re an obvious extrovert, and love expressing yourself. You might like strong, bright colours and choosing warm tones like yellow, orange or red will work well at your wedding.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B_DZWvcJJZ5/

    Mostly b:

    You are a confident, but relaxed person and don’t care too much for glamour. You might like cool, heavier colours like greens, blues and purples.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B0qq2E2oCta/

    Mostly c:

    If you are an introvert like the quiz suggests, you might be more reserved. A good colour scheme would be light colours, like peach, lilac, or pink to convey your calmness and tranquility.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/Bulkv8phEZZ/

    Combination of a and b:

    If you are a little bit of an extrovert with a logical, level-headed side, we think you’ll absolutely love dark, sophisticated colours. This gives you room for self expression, but without all the brightness.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B9e9nliHv5i/

    Combination of b and c:

    If you’re an introvert but who likes to get out there, don’t let anyone hold you back. You’re not shy, but not loud either. An earthy, neutral colour scheme is what you want.  Go for whites, browns and greens.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B-eCVVuH0KQ/

    Combination of a and c:

    If you’re one of those rare and wonderful creatures who seem quiet at first but actually get more expressive the more you’re comfortable, welcome. You might actually be a dark horse, and you might as well admit it. We recommend metallic colours like silver, gold or bronze for an edgy theme.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B4PpGs_B48l/

    Image: Unsplash

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