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    Banquet table decor inspiration

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    Sitting down for a meal with your loved ones is always special, and your wedding day should be no different. Embrace the intimacy with beautiful banquet tables.

    Whether you’re hosting a small or large event, banquet tables are easy and stylish options to seat your guests. These rectangular tables run the length of the room, drawing your eyes ahead and making the space seem larger than in is. While it may seem intimidating, this table shape is incredibly easy to decorate. Depending on your wedding style, you can adorn your table with lush greenery, dried botanicals or rows of candles and glasswear.

    Here are some ideas to get you started:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B8WWpIJh5h3/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

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    Feature image: Unsplash

     

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    Now trending: Bushveld weddings

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    Tranquility, serenity, peace: three words that come to mind in the African bush. A place of wild nature and escapism, the bushveld makes for the perfect place to spend quality time with your loved ones.

    Celebrate the beauty of nature by saying your ‘I do’s’ in the great outdoors. It’s the perfect ode to Africa. In South Africa we are spoilt for choice with stunning landscapes and exciting game reserves to meet our wildest dreams.

    There are a host of dreamy bushveld wedding venues throughout the country, but one that stands above the rest is Monate Game Lodge. Nestled in the peaceful Limpopo Province, Monate Game Lodge is a 3000-hectare private game reserve that tailors every event to the couple. Here, you’ll receive a personalised experience that is both memorable and magical.

    Say you ‘I do’s’ beneath their Rock Fig, under a majestic Marula tree, in a natural cave or a traditional chapel.

    Monate Game Lodge is making it easier for couples to have their perfect day. Book your dream summer wedding at Monate Game Lodge during the month of December 2020 or January 2021 and receive complimentary venue hire! Enquire now: 014 718 7000 or [email protected].

     

    Feature image: supplied

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    Help! I don’t get along with my in-laws

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    Everybody knows getting married is a package deal. You might adore your new spouse, but that doesn’t mean you will necessarily get along with their family. However, as much as we’d love to tell you it doesn’t matter, it does. Family is family, no matter what and building good relationships with your in-laws will make for a healthy relationship with your partner. Here are a few things to try if you’re faced with a monster-in-law.

    – Don’t judge a book by its cover

    This is true of all relationships. The way people seem is not always the way they are. Even if they behave in what comes across as rude or mean, it might have nothing to do with you. There might be a deeper insecurity or issue that leads to certain behaviour. Always give people the benefit of the doubt. Also remember that people have different personality types, and not everyone will always get along. That doesn’t mean you can’t be civil towards each other for the sake of your partner. Try spending some one-on-one time with the person and find common ground. You might just be pleasantly surprised.

    – Stand your ground

    If you have tried getting to know them better and being kind, but nothing’s changed, it might be time to stand your ground. There’s a line between being nice and getting walked over, which no one deserves. If things get so heated that they make you uncomfortable or the other person is downright condescending, you may want to set boundaries and be straight with them. Don’t compromise on your own values just to get them to like you. It’s important for them to know that they should also respect you and your beliefs, even if they don’t agree. Try to explain your point of view in a calm and open-minded manner, giving reasons for your view points.

    – But not too much

    That being said, always keep in mind that your relationship with your partner comes first. You don’t want to end up hurting them or worse, forcing them to choose between you and their family. If you have tried to be the bigger person, stated your take on things and set some boundaries, but the conflict is still not resolved, you might actually want to take a step back. This might include politely declining from family gatherings. It’s not worth losing your partner over a feud with your in-laws.

    – Always be respectful, even if they’re not

    The golden rule in every situation is respect. Accept the fact that you may never get along, even though you tried. However, and this especially applies during the “stand your ground” phase, always be respectful. That way, you don’t give them any ammunition to fight with, plus you’re showing your partner that you respect them too. Never stoop down to verbal abuse, immature games or using children as a means to manipulate their grandparents, for example. As long as the in-laws are not actually doing anything illegal or harmful, there’s no reason for you to keep your partner or children away from them. The battle is between you and them.

    Image: Unsplash

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    Should grooms wear custom-made suits?

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    Wedding dresses are gushed over and are often made the centre of attention on the big day. This may leave you, as the groom, feeling as though your suit is not of much importance. Well, that’s definitely not true! You surely want to look your best on your special day.

    For some, a custom-made suit is the best way to achieve that. Others, however, may be on the fence about whether a bespoke suit is worth it.

    Here are some pros and cons of custom-made suits to help you decide:

    Pros:  

    – Fit 

    Nothing looks better than a suit that fits you perfectly. This is particularly worthy of noting for those who don’t have a “typical” body. Off the rack suits are catered almost exclusively to the “average” body type.

    – Look 

    Material, design, patterns, and style can all be tailored to your exact needs and wants. The look of the suit will be nothing short of what you imagined. You won’t have to settle for the generic offerings of stores.

    – Attention to detail

    Since your suit is being made by a tailor, you’ll get a final product that has been paid careful attention to from start to finish. As a result of this attention to detail, you’ll get the best possible quality.

    Cons: 

    – Cost 

    Since you’re paying for higher quality material as well as the time and labour it takes to create the suit, you’ll be paying quite a bit more than you would for a suit off the racks. You’ll have to consider whether your budget allows for this.

    – Time consuming 

    Bespoke suits are usually made by hand, with minimal machines involved. On top of that, you’ll have to go for a few fittings in order to ensure the suit fits you perfectly. This will take much more time than simply purchasing a suit at a store.

    – May not get your money’s worth 

    Custom-made suits are great, and it’s always good to have one in your closest for special occasions. However, if you’re a guy who doesn’t wear suits very often, splurging on an expensive suit may not be worth your while. If it’s just going to collect dust in your closet, consider a store bought suit instead.

    Image: Unsplash 

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    Do you really need a wedding theme?

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    Some couples go all out with wedding themes, like this pair who had a Harry Potter themed wedding. Others prefer to keep the themes mellow and low-key, opting for ideas such as “rustic” or “vintage”.

    Wedding themes were, in the past, one of the most important decisions to make about your wedding. These days, its really more of a personal preference; whether you have a theme is neither here nor there.

    The draw towards a themed wedding, in general, is the idea of personalising an event that is quite common. For this reason, some may consider a wedding theme imperative. But, in the end, it’s not necessary.

    In fact, choosing to forgo a wedding theme completely may make your life a whole lot easier. A theme limits your options with regards to food, drinks and decor. Having no theme means you can have whatever you want without worrying if it fits with the theme. This connects to the next reason why themed weddings complicate your life.

    Having a theme also means you have to connect all aspects of your wedding to this theme. More often than not, this will take much more time and planning than a regular wedding and can end up costing much more money.

    Guests, usually, have trouble with a themed wedding. Their outfits need more planning and they may have to purchase entirely new items just for your event. For many, this puts them off from attending the wedding at all.

    Instead of going for a full on wedding theme, you could opt to centre your wedding – including food, decor and drinks – around two or three colours. This is much easier and always looks classy.

    Here are some ideas:

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    https://www.instagram.com/p/B8OVUxkhHeQ/

    If you already have your heart set on a themed wedding. That’s okay too, it’s your special day and you should do as you please! Just be sure you’re ready for some extra planning. Here are some themed weddings to help you gather some inspiration:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/ByDjaZQH9Xn/

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BRiKEt8hvv7/

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B7i9yMwh4lR/

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B62Pf7xBEJX/

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B8Hxptno4RO/

    Image: Instagram/Halloweddings

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    Wow-worthy wedding backdrops

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    Photo booths have been incredibly popular over the years, but why not step it up a notch? A wedding backdrop offers a cool and unique way for your guests to take photographs on your big day.

    Let’s face it, your guests want to take pictures at your wedding. They’re all dolled up, in a cool new venue and love is in the air. Give them something to marvel at with a stunning wedding backdrop. This feature adds personality and creativity to your big day. It will also look amazing in your wedding album and Instagram pictures, just saying.

    From romantic to whimsical, it’s easy to personalise the backdrop to fit your couple. Here are some ideas to get you started.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B7_yg1JAQMc/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

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    Feature image: Pexels

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    How weddings have changed over the years

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    Weddings come with tons of customs and traditions, the history of which is always quite interesting. Many couples are eager to incorporate age-old practices into their weddings. Over the years, however, the practices have changed and transformed.

    For those who want tradition and modernity, or who would prefer to customise their wedding to be more original, perhaps insight into how wedding traditions have changed over the years will help to find a middle ground.

    – Asking for permission 

    In years gone by, it was often considered respectful to ask a woman’s father for her hand in marriage. Today, women have much more agency and are no longer considered to be “passed on” to their husbands. Many still follow this custom as a sign of respect. However, others have completely done away with the tradition.

    – Veils 

    Originally, the wedding veil was a way to protect the bride from evil spirits on her wedding day. In 1849, however, Queen Victoria donned a veil as fashion for the first time ever. Since then, many brides have decided to go without a veil or have replaced it with other accessories such as flower crowns.

    – Not seeing each other before the ceremony

    In the past, it was considered to be very bad luck for the groom to see the bride before the wedding. This tradition started at a time when arranged marriages were more common, and was a way to ensure that a groom did not have a change of heart before the ceremony.

    Today, many couples have “first look” shoots. They have a private moment together before their nuptials to capture the first moment they see each other in their wedding attire.

    – Receptions 

    Today, we have large receptions that take months of preparation and planning. We offer full meals and often have a constant flow of food and drink for our guests. Previously, a wedding reception was merely some cake and tea at the home of the brides parents.

    – The classic vows 

    The classic wedding vows, which can be traced back to 1549, say that the bride promises to “love, honour, keep, obey, and serve” her husband to be. The last two words are often dropped, these days.

    – Rice throwing 

    Traditionally, newly-weds were sent off from their weddings by having rice tossed at them. Today, bubbles, eco-friendly glitter, or sparklers, amongst other things are often used instead.

    Image: Unsplash 

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    What to ask for instead of wedding gifts

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    Asking for wedding gifts can be a bit awkward. It gets even more uncomfortable if you’re asking for money instead of gifts. But, perhaps you don’t want gifts at all. If you and your partner are philanthropic people, then you may be considering ways to use your wedding to give back.

    Requesting charitable replacements for wedding gifts is much easier than asking for alternative wedding gifts such as money. People are likely to be on board, because who could resist such a sweet gesture!

    If you’ve set your heart on asking for something charitable to make the world a better place, then consider these ideas:

    – Plant some trees 

    This is one of the simplest ways to give back. Request that guest plant a tree in place of your gift. You can provide them with seeds or have them buy their own. Either way, its a great option.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B7VOVZgpu54/

    – Donate to a charity 

    Organisations such as Greater Good SA, Starfish Greathearts Foundation, Prodder, and Play Your Part are great to help you find and set up a way to use your wedding to donate to a charity. Get in contact with them and find out how you can make the world a better place with your nuptials.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B7TQyZSAeuc/

    – Ask for a charity pack 

    Decide on a cause, for example helping the homeless or providing for a child at an orphanage. Then request that each guest bring a basket or bag filled with goods for somebody in need. You can take the packs to an organisation who will give them out to those who need them most or you can keep a few in your car and give them to somebody in need if you pass them somewhere.

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    – Help a child in need

    There are wonderful organisations that allow for you to easily help a child in need. Get into contact with an organisation with UNICEF and ask how you can donate to their causes. Perhaps you could get every guest to donate a small amount of money, using your wedding as a collection point.

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

    – Set up donation boxes 

    Let your guests know you will be having a clothing drive or a food drive at your wedding. Set up some boxes and collect!

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    Image: Unsplash 

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    Bridal hats to have you brimming with confidence

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    Accessories finish off your look, so why not go bold with a bridal hat? Bridal hats are definitely having a moment. From the runway to the royal family, we’ve seen this trend be rocked to perfection.

    These hats are typically worn pre- or post reception, the best time to truly experiment and have fun with your look. Bridal hats are perfect for summer weddings to shield your face from the sun and hopefully protect your makeup from melting.

    Beyond this, bridal hats can be effortlessly chic and classy. Regardless of your wedding theme, theres a style for you. A simple and clean wide-brimmed hat will give you old-school glamour, while a straw-hat adorned with flowers will scream boho luxe.

    Take some inspiration from these fashion-forward brides:

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    Feature image: Unsplash

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    How to have a successful wedding dress shopping trip

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    With endless choices in front of you and multiple opinions getting thrown at you from all directions, wedding dress shopping can be stressful! However, it’s an experience you’ve probably been dreaming of for years and it can be a magical event if you plan it properly.

    It’s easy to get lost in the overwhelmingly dreamy ambience of a bridal store. Be sure that you’re prepared before you enter those doors.

    Here are some tips to help you ensure you have a successful wedding dress shopping trip:

    Set a budget

    Before you get your heart set on a dress you can’t afford, set a budget and let the stores consultant know before they bring you any options. A budget helps you set your expectations realistically and also narrow down your options. Narrowing your options may sound disheartening, but in the end it’s a good thing. There are so many incredible options that can make the process difficult as it becomes hard to choose.

    Start early 

    Never underestimate how long the dress process takes. Usually, gowns can take about 4 to 10 months to be made and completed. Choosing the dress, alterations, and three or more fitting appointments each at least a month apart makes the process span across many months. Getting started early ensures that your dress is with you well before the wedding, and takes a lot of dress stress off of your shoulders. Don’t forget that choosing a dress on it’s own can take a while!

    Do your research 

    Having a general idea about the style of dress you want can speed up your dress shopping experience drastically. You’ll be doing yourself a huge favour by doing some style research prior to shopping.

    Additionally, knowing what types of dresses are a good fit for your body will save you a lot of disappointment. You may see a dress that is the most stunning creation you’ve ever seen, but when you try it on it just doesn’t look the way you want it to. Do some reading about which styles suit your body to avoid getting attached to something that doesn’t fit your figure.

    Moreover, it helps to go in having some general knowledge of wedding dress jargon. It’s not necessary, but it saves time. You won’t have to ask “what does that mean?” several times throughout your appointment.

    Keep your team small 

    Decide who really needs to be there and don’r bring more than 4 or 5 people. Ensure you’re surrounded by positive people who understand you and your preferences. Taking a smaller group of people on your shopping trip also ensures that you have less unnecessary opinions clouding your judgement.

    Be comfortable but prepared 

    Don’t get too dolled up, but wear some makeup and keep your hair looking good. This will help you to envision yourself on your wedding day. If you show up to fit dresses straight after a run, you may feel less glamorous and thus may reject dresses that you wouldn’t had you felt better!

    Wear appropriate undergarments! It will give you a better idea of the real fit of the dress. Similarly, bring some extra shoes along. You’ll want to know what your dress looks like with the appropriate shoes, instead of with your trusty shopping sneakers.

    Forget the comfort zone 

    You have be comfortable in particular styles, but give some others a try too. It won’t hurt at all, and you may stumble on something perfect.

    Don’t compare your experience to others

    Some people find their dresses immediately, others take weeks to find the perfect one. Don’t put pressure on yourself to fall in love with the first dress you see. Take your time.

    Remember to move in the gown 

    When you’re fitting a gown, try dancing in it, walking in it, hugging in it and so on. If you can’t move properly, you’re likely to be very uncomfortable on the day.

    Speak your mind 

    If you want something, say it. If you don’t like something, say that too. Don’t keep your thoughts to yourself or spare any feelings with regards to people’s opinions about your dress. At the end of the day, you’re the one wearing it on your special day.

    Take a photo 

    Once you choose your dress, take a photo of yourself wearing it. You likely won’t get to see it again for a while. This will help you when the doubts and second-thoughts start to creep in. Just re-look at how enchanting you look in your chosen gown, and you’ll be good to go.

    Also read: Wedding dress shopping timeline

    Image: Unsplash

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