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    It’s a stressful time for the world right now. As the days progress, we become more and more uncertain of what’s happening. In times like these, it’s even more important to take care of yourself.

    Having a pamper day may seem unimportant and unnecessary, but doing small things for yourself can help improve your mood and mindset. To relax and unwind, here’s how you can spoil yourself from the comfort of your own home.

    Get rid of electronic distractions:

    The constant ping of your cellphone will detract from your “treat yo’self” day, so best switch it off for now. By switching off your phone, you also allow your mind to switch off. The news can be quite heavy nowadays, and the constant barrage of bad news in particular can unknowingly add anxiety to your day. Give your mind a little holiday.

    Make sure to let your people know that you’ll be switching your phone off for the day so that no one is worried about your lack of replies. If necessary, set up an ‘out of office’ automation so that your work contacts know you cannot be reached.

    Set the scene:

    Sometimes the right vibe is all you need. Before getting to the good stuff, the quickest way to brighten. mood is by cleaning the room you plan on relaxing in. The act of cleaning in itself relaxes some, but the key part of this is the result. With a clean, organised space, your mind will feel more at ease and less distracted.

    Now that the chores are done, let’s have some fun! Throw on your favourite album or playlist, get into your comfiest sweats and maybe even light some candles.

    A luxurious bubble bath:

    Baths are truly magical. If you’re lucky enough to have a bath, make sure to dedicate an hour of your time to soak in it. Pour in some bubble bath or a bath bomb for extra luxury, and settle down with a good book or magazine. Throw in some rose petals for an extra special touch.

    No bubble bath or bath bomb? Make your own! Mix a cup of liquid body wash, 1/4 cup pure vegetable glycerin, 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract and essential oils of your choice to get the bubbles going.

    Homemade facemask:

    If you were too distracted panic buying toilet paper to buy face masks, don’t worry. There are so many easy and natural masks you can quickly whip up at home.

    Typical homemade face mask ingredients include greek yoghurt, banana, honey, olive oil and avocados as bases, which you probably already have at home anyway. Customise with other ingredients like coffee, cinnamon, pumpkin or aloe vera or sugar to create masks for whatever finish you desire.

    Feature image: Unsplash

    Escort cards are designed to guide your guests to their seats in style, so why not have some fun with them? Using simple items you can easily acquire, you can add a personal touch to your big day while also saving some coin.

    While you’re at home practicing safe social distancing, you’ve probably got a lot of time on your hands. Spend your time wisely by getting creative with one of these easy escort card DIY projects.

    Origami birds:

    Credit: Pinterest

    Wood blocks:

    Credit: Pinterest

    Ribbon:

    Credit: Pinterest

    Tiles:

    Credit: Pinterest

    Cactus clippings:

    Credit: Pinterest

    Seashells:

    Credit: Pinterest

    Fruit:

    Credit: Pinterest

    Leaves:

    Credit: Pinterest

    Feature image: Unsplash

    We know, we know. It’s not exactly what you had in mind. But hey, sometimes doing things a little different can be tons of fun! So, if you were planning to host your own or someone else’s bachelorette party soon and you don’t feel like postponing, don’t worry. You can easily move it online. Here’s how:

    Choose your platform

    If you’re tech-savvy, you will be spoiled for choice. There are loads of different group communication platforms, including Skype, WhatsApp video call, Zoom, Google Hangouts and more. Choose the one you and your mates are most comfortable with and go for it.

    Invite everyone and make sure they can access it

    Of course, you and everyone attending will need reliable and strong internet access. It might be smart to do a test run a few days before to make sure everyone can access it and that it will work well. If not, you might consider trying a different platform. Then, the fun part starts. Make some awesome e-vites and get everyone to pin down the date (they’ve got no excuse not to be there!).

    Go all out with the dress code

    The most important part of the event is (arguably) the theme. If you have a theme or a dress-code, don’t leave it behind! You will still be able to see each other, and you will feel all the vibes if you dress the part.

    Have plenty of games on hand

    No bachelorette is complete without a bunch of games. Granted, this might not be the wild night out you planned, but it doesn’t have to be any less fun. Games like Heads Up, charades and Never have I ever will have you crying with laughter!

    Don’t forget the drinks

    This is can be combined with the games for best results. You can even all make cocktails together during the party (assuming you have all the ingredients already, since no alcohol will be for sale during lockdown). If not, get that steaming cup of coffee or heavenly tea ready!

    Image: Pixabay

     

    Let’s be honest, there are quite a few wedding guests who fall under the ‘non-essential’ category. We tend to invite people to be polite, because our parents expect us to, or because that’s what tradition dictates.

    Eventually, the list will grow too long. Your venue’s capacity may not allow for the long list of guests, or it could be the gaping hole in your pocket calling for you to cut down on the invites. Whatever your reason for a shorter guest list, you need to remember that in the end it’s your special day. You can invite (or not invite) anyone you please.

    If you’re wondering where to start trimming, you’ve come to the right place. Here are some people you can leave off your wedding guest list:

    – MIA friends and family 

    Your wedding is an opportunity to celebrate your love and the big steps you’re taking in life. Those who are present in your life should have a chance to share that happiness with you. If there are family members or friends you haven’t spoken to in years, there is no need to invite them. This is not a reunion, it’s a wedding.

    – Neighbours 

    Physical proximity should not be a factor in choosing your wedding guests. Just because they live next to you, doesn’t mean they get an invite. If you’re very friendly with them, it’s a different story, but if they’re the “wave and keep it moving” types of neighbours, then an invitation is not necessary.

    – Kids

    There is a lot of debate about whether kids should be invited to weddings. Ultimately, the choice is yours. But if you wanting to cut down on the amount of mouths you need to feed, this is a great place to start.

    – Your parents’ friends 

    No doubt your mom’s friend will see all your wedding photos on Facebook (and like them all individually). There’s no need for her to see it live.

    Badly behaved guests 

    If you have a friend who is notorious for getting smashed and wrecking the cake at weddings, why would you invite them? Be smart, don’t do it!

    Also read: Should you invite kids to your wedding? 

    Also read: Wedding plus-one etiquette: Rules for the couple

    Also read: The ex-factor: Should you invite them? 

    Image: Pexels

    If eyes are the window to your soul, then perfume is the gateway to your psyche. Wearing perfume is like making your own non-verbal statement. Your scent follows you, speaks of and to you.

    Whether you prefer the boldness of musk or light floral notes, your choice in fragrance will leave a lingering impression on everyone you come in contact with so make sure it’s the right one. Before you spray away, consider which best suits your personality…

    Nature Lovers: Floral

    Earthy and sweet, floral scents are for the nature lovers. Floral scents are also distinctly soft and feminine. It’s for the woman deeply in touch with her femininity, who wants her sweetness shared with the world. The wearer of this scent immediately brightens a room with their warmth and sunny disposition. Jasmine, lily, and gardenia are popular ingredients for this perfume type.

    Self Assured: Musk

    A musky scent is hard to ignore, just like its wearer. Earthy, woody, animalistic, and intoxicating, this scent gives you everything and more. A musk-wearer is self-assured, the type that doesn’t need to shout to be seen. Naturally, this bold and confident scent can be polarising, so it’s not for the faint of heart.

    Feminine and Flirty: Fruity

    Fruity scents can go two ways. Citrus scents are sharp, clean, and energically fresh. It’s feminine without being too flirty, ideal for a woman with sass. Those who prefer the more tropical side tend to be more fun and full of life. Scents reminiscent of watermelon, berries or passionfruit are heartwarmingly optimistic, like a day spent on the beach. If you wear this scent, you’re most likely the life of the party.

    Uncomplicated: Fresh

    Understated but not underwhelming, this perfume scent is like a breathe of fresh air. Wearers of this scent appreciate simplicity and follow an uncomplicated way of life. If you’re into the minimalist aesthetic, this scent is for you.

    Well-grounded: Woody

    Typically the most popular unisex fragrance type, woody scents are earthy and grounded. With ingredients like sandalwood, cedar and patchouli, this fragrance type is easyngoing and clear just like its wearer. Those that spritz this scent are typically solid and dependable, but definitely not boring.

    Mysterious: Spicy/oriental

    This warm scent is dark and curiously inviting. Those who don a spicy scent are bold, mysterious and sensual yet playful. Almost hedonistic in nature, this smell speaks to an uncompromising personality who enjoys the pleasures of life. It’s perfect for a spontaneous wearer that likes to keep people guessing.

    If you’re looking for a new fragrance that is as multifacted as you, look no further. Like the Quatre ring that combines four different motifs with an array of colours and dazzling harmony, the Boucheron fragrances will reveal surprising facets and daring sharpness, reflecting elegance and style. A frenzy of precious raw materials unveil their scent uniquely in every occasion and for each skin.

    Boucheron Quatre fragrances are exclusively available in Dis-Chem Pharmacies.

    Feature image: supplied

    Weekend weddings are all the rage, with Saturdays being the most popular by a long shot. But couples haven’t totally discredited the idea of a weekday wedding. In fact, while they are often considered difficult, weekday weddings are quite do-able!

    Perhaps you’ve chosen a special date for a sentimental reason, or you just are not willing to let go of your dream venue even if it means an “inconvenient” date. Whatever the reason for your weekday wedding, we’re sure you’ll pull it off.

    If you’re on the fence about whether the weekday wedding will work for you, here are some pros and cons to help you find your way:

    Pros 

    – Much cheaper 

    Vendors, venues, and hotels will all be much cheaper during the week. Most companies and service providers in the wedding industry are likely to charge much less on a weekday. Saving money? That’s always a plus!

    – More availability 

    Your planning and co-ordination will consist of less back and forth calls and appointments because wedding service providers are more readily available on weekdays. Weekday weddings are uncommon, so you’ll have vendors almost completely to yourself!

    – Good for intimate weddings 

    It’s likely that quite a few people won’t be able to make it, so you’ll be left with a smaller crowd. Of course all your nearest and dearest will make the effort to be there, which means it’s only those who you are not that close to you who won’t pull through. This means your wedding will only have guests who intimately know you. It could turn out being even more special that you ever imagined.

    Cons 

    – Lower attendance 

    If you’ve always wanted a massive wedding, then a weekday is a big no. Many guests won’t make it during the week.

    – Might end earlier 

    People have obligations the next day and thus may leave earlier than they would at a weekend wedding. It could bring your celebrations to a close before you’re ready to end the night.

    – Quiet crowd 

    Your guests will be attending your wedding after school, work and other such daily tasks. This means they might be a bit tired and low energy. If you’re fine with a quieter crowd, then go for it! But if you want loud cheers and overly excited onlookers, then a weekday wedding may not be for you.

    Image: Unsplash

    As part of your wedding festivities, the bridal shower offers a perfect moment for you to celebrate your upcoming nuptials with your nearest and dearest.

    As the bride, you definitely want to look the part. Remember, this is your day! To tease your walk down the aisle, it seems fitting to wear white to your bridal shower. Naturally, this outfit would be more daytime appropriate than a wedding dress.

    Here are some fashionable ideas for you to put your best foot forward:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/ByG-LXLgNkz/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B7fKp22FFSy/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

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    Also read: Modern Bridal Shower Ideas

    Feature image: Unsplash

    A wedding day is always meaningful, but one of the most memorable moments for many is the father-daughter dance. If you’ve got a special relationship with your dad, you’ll want a beautiful moment on your big day to encapsulate it.

    To help you find that perfect tune, we’ve rounded up a few of our favourite songs guaranteed to bring some tears to your guests eyes when you take to the floor with your pops.

    Isn’t She Lovely – Stevie Wonder

    Favourite lyrics: “We have been heaven blessed / I can’t believe what God has done / Through us he’s given life to one / But isn’t she lovely made from love”

    Father and Daughter – Paul Simon

    Favourite lyrics: “I’m gonna watch you shine / Gonna watch you grow / Gonna paint a sign / So you always know / As long as one and one is two / Ooh ooh / There could never be a father / Love his daughter more than I love you”

    My Girl – The Temptations

    Favourite lyrics: “I’ve got so much honey the bees envy me / I’ve got a sweeter song than the birds in the trees”

    I Loved Her First – Heartland

    Favourite lyrics: “From the first breath she breathed / When she first smiled at me / I knew the love of a father runs deep”

    Slipping Through My Fingers – ABBA

    Favourite lyrics: “Slipping through my fingers all the time / I try to capture every minute / The feeling in it”

    Make You Feel My Love – Adele

    Favourite lyrics: “When the evening shadows and the stars appear / And there is no one there to dry your tears / I could hold you for a million years / To make you feel my love”

    Have I Told You Lately That I Love You – Rod Stewart

    Favourite lyrics: “Fill my heart with gladness, take away all my sadness / Ease my troubles, that’s what you do”

    You Are So Beautiful – Joe Cocker

    Favourite lyrics: “You’re everything I hope for / You’re everything I need / You are so beautiful to me”

    Unforgettable  – Natalie Cole and Nat King Cole

    Favourite lyrics: “Never before has someone been more / Unforgettable in every way / And forevermore (and forevermore) / That’s how you’ll stay (that’s how you’ll stay)”

    (They Long to Be) Close to You – The Carpenters

    Favourite lyrics: “On the day that you were born the angels got together / And decided to create a dream come true / So they sprinkled moon dust in your hair of gold and starlight in your eyes of blue”

    Daddy – Beyoncé

    Favourite lyrics: “Even if my man broke my heart today / No matter how much pain I’m in I would be okay, oh / ‘Cause I got a man in my life that can’t be replaced / Father’s love is unconditional, it won’t go away”

    Your Song – Elton John

    Favourite lyrics: “I hope you don’t mind / That I put down in words / How wonderful life is while you’re in the world”

    Because You Loved Me – Celine Dion

    Favourite lyrics: “You were my strength when I was weak / You were my voice when I couldn’t speak / You were my eyes when I couldn’t see / You saw the best there was in me”

    Feature image: Unsplash

    You may be under the impression that the wedding dress is all that people will be looking at on the big day. If that’s the case, you’re in for a wake-up call. The grooms attire is equally important! A wedding suit is one of the most special outfits a man will ever wear.

    Buying this suit, however, is a huge expense. You may not be willing, or be able, to spend that much money on your outfit. If you’re considering your options, then you should keep in mind that renting a suit is possible too.

    Here are some pros and cons of both buying and renting, to help you make your final decision.

    Buying a wedding suit 

    Pros

    – You’ll have it forever 

    If you buy the suit, you’ll be able to keep it forever. Whether it’s just a great memory hanging in your cupboard, or you pull it out to wear to every fancy occasion, it’s always nice to have.

    – You’re the first to wear it 

    You won’t spend your entire wedding day wondering who else has been in the suit that is currently on your body. We know that can be a bit creepy!

    – Originality 

    You can customize it as much as you want, and you can add whatever accessories you prefer. This is the upside for many grooms.

    Cons

    – Expensive 

    This is the most glaring and most commonly cited con. New suits are tremendously pricey.

    – Bang for your buck 

    If you only wear it once, all that money essentially goes to waste.

    – Won’t always fit

    We all know that our bodies change over time. This is true for everybody! Your body won’t be the same in 10 years, as it is on your wedding day. If you’re keeping it, it might not look as great in the future.

    Renting a wedding suit 

    Pros

    – This is often the cheaper option 

    If you’re a more informal type of guy, buying a suit makes no sense! Forking out a large sum of cash for a one-time outfit is simply not worth it. On top of this a suit that costs R5000, for example, is likely to only cost you around half of that price to rent. That’s a lot of savings.

    – A nicer suit 

    Since it’s cheaper to rent than buy, you’ll be able to afford a higher-end suit. You’ll look dapper for less money.

    – Additionals included 

    In most cases, when you rent a suit, all extra’s are included. This means you’ll get your shirt, cufflinks and tie all at once. You’ll spend much less time shopping.

    Cons

    – The fit 

    Renting means that options for tailoring are limited. If you’re “average” sized, then you might be able have some temporary stitches put in, but if you’re extremely tall, for example, it’ll be much more difficult to find a suit that fits well.

    – You may feel it’s not special 

    Since it’s not really yours, and somebody else has worn it before, you may feel its less special than a bought suit.

    Image: Unsplash

    Many couples across the globe have made the tough decision to postpone or cancel their wedding day as the COVID-19 pandemic worsens. While this is the responsible thing to do, it doesn’t mean you can’t still get married.

    Courthouse or Home Affairs weddings can still go ahead, meaning you may still tie the knot in these trying times. Remember, its about the love you have for each other, not an extravagent wedding day, that makes a marriage.

    If you’d still like to go ahead with your big day, albeit on a much smaller scale, here is some fashion inspo for what to wear to the courthouse.

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    Feature image: Unsplash