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    Statement suits for the stylish groom

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    Everyone loves a man in a suit. Grooms have been relying on the old faithful, a classic black tux, for decades. However, today’s groom is one that is willing to take a risk. From bright colours to bright prints, there are so many ways for the man of the moment to stand out on his big day.

    Go crazy with colour:

    Make a splash with a coloured suit. A monochrome suit is the easiest way for a groom to make a fashion statement without being overly dramatic. Be sure to pick a colour that compliments the wedding colour scheme for a cohesive finish.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B1rrlvqDgoV/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

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    https://www.instagram.com/p/By5PQabnCjh/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Print perfection: 

    If you are feeling daring, go for a bold print. This will be sure to turn heads at your wedding. The key with printed suits is to stick to no more than 3 shades and a smaller print to avoid your outfit looking like a costume.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B32poD-D2US/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BjIXXxiAFZ4/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    https://www.instagram.com/p/ByBic8bnUgx/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Velvet fancy:

    Take a page from Prince Harry’s playbook and rock a velvet blazer at your wedding. Velvet has been a thing for a while now. The fabric has become popular in weddings because it is sophisticated and glamorous yet simple at the same time. For an extra stylish element, contrast your suit lapel with a different colour or fabric.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/Bi-E-DKlsYC/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BzQ2Ot9Jn62/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B4PSmfBp24k/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Drama alert:

    Sometimes you just need to throw out the rulebook. Make the ultimate statement with these non-traditional grooms’ fashion looks.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B3-Bt35qheB/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BsEWpawH8uD/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    https://www.instagram.com/p/Br8_eernSWq/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

     

    Image: Unsplash

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    Dresses we love: colourful gowns

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    White wedding dresses have been a tradition since Queen Victoria popularised the trend back in 1840. Classic and regal, there is no denying that this light hue will never go out of style. However, non-white wedding gowns have been making a splash for years.

    We’ve seen stars like Gwen Stefani, Jessica Biel and Dita Von Teese donning rainbow hues for their big day. If you want to make a statement, live in colour with these non-white looks.

    Blushing bride:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BuVp_EmhB9h/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Orange dreamsicle:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/Bl7SOZ8hNr9/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Pastel perfection:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BmsX519hXag/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Black beauty:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/Bq14iG6Adqq/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Go for Gold:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/ByO3l_wFjtU/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Green goddess:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B33ETFmgyBp/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Ocean eyes:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B0u8deMnBUz/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Pretty in print:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B09DH25g6cf/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Romantic red:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B1bJA-NB0c5/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Abstract adventure:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B1k5iaTBipy/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Delicious Dip-dye:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B3PAU9tBwWp/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Image: Unsplash

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    Romantic literary quotes to inspire your vows

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    Writing your wedding vows but lacking inspiration? Turn to the literary giants. Let these words of love get your romantic juices flowing.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B4TklRXHVFQ/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    “Whatever our souls are made of, his and mine are the same.” – Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë

    “You are sunlight through a window, which I stand in, warmed. My darling.” – The Miniaturist by Jessie Burton

    “The minute I heard my first love story, I started looking for you.” – The Illustrated by Jalaluddin Rumi

    “You should be kissed and often, and by someone who knows how.” – Gone With The Wind by Margaret Mitchell

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B4TpQwxgGuj/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    “I choose him over and over again, and he chooses me. – Allegiant by Veronica Roth

    “I am nothing special; just a common man with common thoughts, and I’ve led a common life. There are no monuments dedicated to me and my name will soon be forgotten. But in one respect I have succeeded as gloriously as anyone who’s ever lived: I’ve loved another with all my heart and soul; and to me, this has always been enough.” – The Notebook by Nicholas Sparks

    “It was love at first sight, at last sight, at ever and ever sight.” – Lolita by Vladimir Nabokov

    “Love lets you find those hidden places in another person, even the ones they didn’t know were there, even the ones they wouldn’t have thought to call beautiful themselves.” – Wild Awake by Hilary T. Smith

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B4RCWaHBRah/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    “You don’t love because, you love despite; not for the virtues, but despite the faults.” – The Sound and The Fury by William Faulkner

    “You and I, it’s as though we have been taught to kiss in heaven and sent down to earth together, to see if we know what we were taught.” – Doctor Zhivago by Boris Pasternak

    “I’ve never had a moment’s doubt. I love you. I believe in you completely. You are my dearest one. My reason for life.” – Atonement by  Ian McEwan

    “I don’t ask you to love me always like this, but I ask you to remember. Somewhere inside me there’ll always be the person I am tonight.” – Tender Is The Night by F. Scott Fitzgerald

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B4P92shHyCK/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    “I look at you and I would rather look at you than all the portraits in the world.” – Having A Coke With You by Frank O’Hara

    “For the two of us, home isn’t a place. It is a person. And we are finally home.” – Anna and The French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins

    “You are my heart, my life, my one and only thought.” – The White Company by Arthur Conan Doyle

    “We are asleep until we fall in love!” – War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy

    “Soul meets soul on lovers’ lips.” – Prometheus Unbound by Percy Bysshe Shelley

    “In case you ever foolishly forget: I am never not thinking of you.” – Selected Diaries by Virginia Woolf

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    Pros and cons of a courthouse wedding

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    Nowadays, weddings are elaborate events. However, bigger isn’t always better. Home Affairs -or courthouse weddings- are a great alternative for couples that don’t want a big fuss or simply don’t have the funds.

    If you are considering having a courthouse wedding, you need to be aware of the positives and the negatives that it entails.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B3z23nxJnzw/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Pros

    More intimate:

    Sometimes it can be overwhelming to have a large amount of guests. With a courthouse wedding, you go back to basics with the people that matter. Generally at courthouse weddings, it’s just you, your partner, the officiant and two witnesses. Up to six guests are usually allowed to participate in the proceedings. Invite your best friends or family members to share in your special moment.

    Cheaper:

    Weddings are expensive. Many South African couples spend upwards of R70 000 – R80 000 on their big day. If you don’t have the funds, a courthouse wedding is essentially free of charge (you still have to pay for the marriage licence), leaving you to spend your money in other ways.

    Little planning necessary:

    With a courthouse wedding, all you really need to do is make an appointment and show up. There is no dress rehearsal, no event planner, no real planning necessary. If you’re a more chilled person that doesn’t want to be bogged down by details, this might be a great option for you.

    Less stressful:

    Wedding planning can be overwhelming. With vendors, schedules and seating arrangements, it can quickly become a stressful time moving around multiple elements that need to fit together. Cut out the stress by having a simple courthouse wedding.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B4L5zhWnKLM/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

     

    Cons

    Loved ones don’t get to witness your wedding:

    Weddings are a great time for family and friends to gather together and celebrate their loved ones. What other opportunity do you get to have everyone you love under one roof on such a special occasion? With a courthouse wedding, however, there is little space for guests, as many only allow a maximum of six. Many of the people you love will thus not be present on your big day.

    Location is not always pretty:

    Most Home Affairs offices are not exactly aesthetically pleasing. With dull brown furniture and bare white walls, you venue can leave you begging for some vibrancy. If you want beautiful pictures and a decorated venue, a Home Affairs wedding might not meet your standards.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B3xnyx8gtyN/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    At the end of the day, your wedding day is about you. If a smaller wedding feels right, then do it. Alternatively, if you’ve always dreamed of having a big wedding then live your fantasy. There is no one-size-fits-all for weddings.

    Image: Unsplash

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    Tips for the days leading up to your wedding

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    You want to look and feel your absolute best on your big day. Here are some good habits to help you get there!

    Go to bed earlier

    The busy-tired-exhausted cycle is one we’re all familiar with. While too many people wear their busyness and lack of sleep like a badge of honour, sleep deprivation has far-reaching harmful effects on our overall health, wellbeing and performance. One of the best things you can do for yourself is to try and get more sleep. Experts reckon adults need between seven and nine hours a night. That may sound like a lot so start small, like going to bed 15 or 30 minutes earlier than you normally do.

    Get a little help

    If you’re one of those burning the candle at both ends, your body and mind will thank and reward you for giving it a bit of help in the form of a supplement, such as folic acid, Vitamin B or Essentiale Extreme.

    Stretch while watching TV

    Surely nobody needs to be told that exercising is good for you. We know this, and what you choose to do with that information is up to you. An easy one is simply to do stretches while enjoying the latest binge-able Netflix series.

    Cut down on sugar

    Cutting sugar out completely is difficult, but the good news is that you only need to cut down your sugar intake. Start with something manageable, such as reducing the amount of sugar you take in your coffee, swapping soda for water (even if it’s only every second time) and opting for dark chocolate over regular milk chocolate.

    Keep healthy snacks on hand

    Quiz almost anybody and they’re likely to say that their biggest healthy eating challenge is when they get hungry and there’s nothing wholesome within reach. It’s easy to reach for a chocolate, a packet of chips or a sugary fizzy drink when the hunger pangs hit and cloud your judgement. Proactively curb the hangriness by keeping snacks like almonds, fruit, biltong or kale crisps in your bag or desk drawer.

    Schedule time for yourself

    Me-time would be great, but I don’t have time! Yes, we hear you but this is where you need to get serious about simply taking the time. Slot your me-time into your calendar as you would with any other appointment. Make it fun by calling it a play date, and use the time (even if it is just 30 minutes a week) to do something that gives you joy, be it reading, listening to music, going for a run, chatting to a friend or doing nothing at all. Regularly taking time for yourself will ultimately make you happier.

    Breathe deeply

    What could be easier than breathing? We’re doing all the time already, but breathing deeper  – and thinking about the action as you do it – has a number of health benefits such as increasing your energy levels, improving posture, reducing inflammation and relaxing both mind and body. So just breathe. And then breathe deeper.

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    The best time to take your wedding pictures

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    Wedding pictures are a way to capture the essence of the day. Couples usually hire a professional photographer with the intention of having a special posed photoshoot. Besides looking for the perfect spot, have you thought about the timing? When is the best time to take your wedding pictures?

    Golden Hour

    This is a term commonly used in photography. Golden Hour is the period of time just after a sunrise or before a sunset. At this time, the sun is not as harsh and direct in photos. The light is softer and has a redder effect. The photos have a ‘romantic’ feel to them.

     

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    A post shared by katiehamiltonphotography (@katiehamiltonphotography) on

    When it’s the middle of the day, the sun is overhead and very strong. The brightness can cause a lot of strong shadows and highlights which in effect may result in overexposure. The heat can also cause you and your partner to appear red and flustered.

     

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    A post shared by Julita LDN Bride (@julita_ldn_bride) on

    Most couples tend to have their wedding photoshoot after the ceremony and before the reception. This option is the easiest especially if you have a picturesque venue. However, you should consider the time of day this would be.

     

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    A post shared by Evelyn Kungla Photography (@evelynkunglaphotography) on

    Obviously the Golden Hour is the ideal time to take your wedding photos, but it may not be possible in terms of timing unless you decide to allocate time out of your reception (assuming it’s late afternoon and early evening).

     

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    A post shared by Photographer & Filmmaker (@laurene_and_the_wolf) on

    It’s important to remember that if you and your partner are not able to make your wedding photos ‘golden’ it’s not an issue! Your photographer should make use of a fill flash to balance out any harsh and unwanted lighting. You won’t be able to get that authentic soft and red look though.

     

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    A post shared by Evelyn Kungla Photography (@evelynkunglaphotography) on

    Feature image: Unsplash

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    How to incorporate black into your wedding

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    Black is not just a colour for mourning. For decades, white has been synonymous with weddings for its symbolism of purity. White is traditionally expected. However, while many are afraid of including this dark-hued colour in weddings, black can actually bring much class and sophistication to your big day. Take a walk on the dark side and think of bringing this dark tone into your wedding.

    Here are a few way to incorporate black into your wedding that won’t look morbid.

    Invites:

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    The order of events:

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    Your dress:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B4BE3UaB4F0/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    All-black suit:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/Bwnb-VLlKmq/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Your bouquet:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/Be5psRSDAKV/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Wedding arch:

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    Black tables:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B4BLZ5tApR3/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Seating:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/Be6R4rajYub/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Candles:

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

    Escort cards:

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    Napkins:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B2O0ueNhGmN/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Plating:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B1966ucD3FR/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Your cake:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B36Z3gvFu53/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

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    Insta-worthy wedding desserts

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    Food itself can be artwork and oh-so-pretty. Let’s not kid each other, we’re all here for the dessert. And you know there will be pictures taken, so you want them to look gorgeous! We found some super creative desserts to give you ideas. Even if you’re not a sweet tooth, you’ll love this eye candy.

    Cookies

    Ah, yes. An old-time favourite, and the perfect canvas. You can go crazy with different shapes and designs, or keep it simple with all of the same. Either way, these are great, even as a souvenir for guests to take home since it won’t spoil easy.

     

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    A post shared by SugaDust (@sugadust) on

    Chocolate fountain 

    This one is an oldie but a goodie. There’s no one on earth that doesn’t like chocolate and if they say they don’t, they’re wrong. The beauty of this is that you can have guests dip in anything under the sun. Think fresh fruit, biscuit-fingers, or even donuts. The list goes on. Plus, it makes for a super pretty decor piece.

     

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    “I’m not a psychic, but I see myself all over you.” ? . #namethattune #cheatday #chocolatefountain

    A post shared by Phil (@the.vacation.cub) on

    Mousse 

    Delectable, smooth and decadent. Mousse is fancy and fun at the same time because you can make little artworks by packing different layers in a glass or glass bowl. That way, you can play with different colours. Or you can keep it as simple as chocolate. Stunning pictures all the way!

    Macarons

    Almost seems like we left the most obvious for last, doesn’t it? We all know that macarons are highly Instagrammable. Scientific fact. And yummy too! Well, eat your heart out.

     

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    A post shared by Stay Sweet | Lindsay (@staysweetnyc) on

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Mooniia (@mooniia_la_fee_gourmande) on

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    The pros and cons of having a garden wedding

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    There’s nothing quite like being in a beautiful and lush environment. If you love nature and want to make use of its beauty then a garden wedding could be perfect for you. However, as with any wedding venue, there will be upsides and downsides and you will need to decide for yourself if the negatives outweigh the positives when it comes to planning a garden wedding.

    The location

     

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    A post shared by Los Willows Wedding Estate (@loswillows) on

    Gardens generally have plenty of space and can therefore accommodate all your guests easily. The setting itself is already natural and beautiful and so you will not have to worry too much about decoration. You will most likely be able to have your ceremony as well as your reception in the garden which cuts out travel for yourself and your guests.

    If you’re lucky and a family member or close friend has a stunning garden, they might allow you to have your wedding there and that will save you tons of money.

    However, if you are planning on holding your reception in the garden, you might want to hire a marquee to protect yourself and your guests from the elements and bugs. You should also have a back up plan in case it is incredibly windy or happens to rain on the day.

    If you’re looking at a public garden, it won’t be private and you may have trouble booking it during season as it will be in demand.

    The vibe

     

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    A post shared by Emma Joy The Wedding Planner (@emmajoytheweddingplanner) on

    A garden wedding invokes a casual vibe and is also a much more family-friendly wedding venue. Kids can run around and play without getting bored and wanting to go home and you can set up lawn games for the adults’ entertainment.

    On the downside, if you’re wanting a full set up then you will most likely have to rent everything including seating, sound equipment and a power source since there won’t be any electrical outlets in a public garden. If it’s in the garden of someone’s home, you can get away with running extension cables from the house to power everything you need.

    The logistics

     

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    A post shared by Destination Wedding Planner (@theonemomentevents) on

    The nice part about garden weddings is that you will be free to use vendors of your choice. You might be able to find good deals with unattached vendors rather than using sponsored vendors and then having to put up with their pricing.

    As with any open space, however, there is the issue of sound getting lost, especially if there is a breeze. If you’re under a marquee, then this shouldn’t be a problem.

    These are just a few things to consider when you are planning a garden wedding. There are wedding venues that have garden locations within them that will have all the necessary equipment that you would need, but you might end up paying heavily for this type of venue.

    Feature image: Unsplash

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    Decor inspiration for a minimalist wedding

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    Recent wedding trends have focused on dramatic, colourful and opulent finishes. However, it is not for everyone. Many couples are drawn to simplistic finishes. You don’t always need tonnes of decor to make a statement.

    The minimalist trend is all about less-is-more. Think neutral colours, natural fabrics, organic elements, accent metals and lots of glass pieces. Clean lines and key pieces create a sophisticated look perfect for weddings.

    Minimalist wedding decor directs attention to where it should be: the newlyweds. Here is some decor inspiration that prove that there is beauty in simplicity.

    Invitations:

    Quality white paper and simple black script are a perfect pair. Add flair with some dried botanicals and a unique letter stamp.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B3zH5MKFPl6/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Welcome sign:

    Welcome your guests in perfect minimalist style. Your welcome sign can feature lots of blank space and minimal words to achieve this simple yet striking finish.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B3V-2azAoBi/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Venue:

    High ceilings, exposed wood and white walls work best for a minimalist wedding venue. We love how just some string lights and greenery take this venue from drab to fab.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B2D4OvCnB1A/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Backdrop:

    For a beautiful yet simple photo backdrop, consider a wall of hanging lights. Your images will be stunningly and romantically lit, and its very affordable.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B3au7IYBYGt/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Seating arrangements:

    Fabric banners are wonderfully minimalist. Use simple lettering, shapes and blank spaces to get the look.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/Bzsivc3IWSg/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Seating numbers:

    If you’re having multiple tables, let your guests know the number with these minimalist table signs. A clear card with block lettering works very well for this theme.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B32pdoslTk6/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Sweetheart table:

    Minimalism does not have to be boring! With just a few candles, flowers and a frame, this sweetheart table has achieved picturesque perfection. The flowers add a softness to the angular frame that dominates the table, giving a great balance to the overall effect.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B3eecPNnZxU/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Table arrangements:

    Long tables work best for a minimalist wedding. Decorate them with white candles, and dried botanicals to achieve this simplistic yet stunning look.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B3A-eCajFOR/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Plating:

    Simple, white plating is all you need for a minimalist wedding. Have some fun with the menu by using curlycue scripts.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B3tUul9DtCt/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Table decor:

    Place single leaves of greenery in modern terrariums or vases for some minimalist decoration. These table decorations are soft yet modern, creating a wonderful juxtaposition.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B3xF8ongqRA/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Signage:

    A natural linen banner makes for perfect signage. Print a short slogan on the banner for some simplistic decor.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B3Xnvm5Fhy5/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Cake:

    Cakes have become very extravagant in recent years. Take it back to simplicity with this minimalist design. We love how they incorporated a simple vine into this layered cake.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BE910O-Q0aP/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Picture: Unsplash

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