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    wedding exit
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    Ten creative ways to exit your wedding

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    The wedding exit photo is an important one! It symbolises you, as a newly-wed couple, taking your first steps out into the world as a unit. Many couples go all out for wedding exists, from leaving in a tractor to escaping in a helicopter.

    If you want to keep it simple but still make it special there are tons of options too! There’s no need to stress about an over-the-top exist that, in the end, burns an unnecessary hole in your pocket.

    Here are some simple but stunning ideas to inspire you:

    Classic: 

    (Many people are now against confetti and instead use biodegradable versions like this couple who are using “Floralfetti”)

    Sparklers: 

    Bubbles: 

    Through your bridal party:

    Ribbons: 

    Light Sabers: 

    Pom-poms: 

     

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    A post shared by Blackberry Ridge (@blackberryridgega)

    Glow sticks: 

    Sports references:

    Flower petals: 

     

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    A post shared by MELISSA GLYNN (@mglynnphoto)

    ALSO SEE: What is an Irish exit?

    What is an Irish exit?

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    Romantic red wedding cakes that steal the spotlight
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    Romantic red wedding cakes that steal the spotlight

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    They say red is the colour of love and passion, making it a fitting choice for a wedding day. Bold, dramatic and undeniably romantic, red wedding cakes are perfect for couples wanting to make a statement at their reception. Whether you lean toward deep burgundy florals, vintage piping or modern minimalist designs, there’s a red cake style for every aesthetic.

    From romantic rose detailing to sleek contemporary finishes, here are a few romantic red wedding cakes that completely steal the spotlight.

    Classic romance with a modern edge

    This cake proves that red doesn’t have to feel overpowering. The balance of clean detailing with rich crimson tones creates a sophisticated look that works beautifully for formal evening weddings.

    Bold florals for maximum drama 

    If your wedding aesthetic leans luxurious and dramatic, a cake like this is the perfect centrepiece. The rich red florals add texture, depth, and a touch of old-world romance. 

     Contemporary with a romantic twist 

    Minimalists, this one is for you. The sleek design keeps things modern, while the red accents bring warmth and passion to the overall look. 

    Vintage-inspired elegance 

    Vintage piping and rich red hues are having a major moment in the wedding world. This cake feels playful, nostalgic and effortlessly chic — ideal for couples embracing a retro-inspired aesthetic.

     A floral lover’s dream 

    Soft detailing paired with striking red blooms creates a cake that feels both romantic and timeless. It’s the kind of design that photographs beautifully from every angle. 

     

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    A post shared by sayaBAKE by Nora (@sayabake)

    Rich tones for autumn and winter weddings 

    Deep reds and darker accents make this style perfect for cooler-season weddings. It feels moody, luxurious and incredibly elegant without losing its romantic charm. 

    Soft ombré shades for a romantic finish 

    If bright red feels too bold, ombré shades are a beautiful alternative. The gradient effect softens the overall look while still bringing in that passionate pop of colour. 

     

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    A post shared by Event Lab (@eventlab1)

    Statement-making and unapologetically bold 

    For couples who want their cake to double as décor, this striking design delivers. Rich red detailing instantly draws the eye and creates a memorable reception moment.

    Whether you prefer something dramatic and fashion-forward or soft and romantic, red wedding cakes are a beautiful way to add personality to your reception. From deep burgundy florals to vintage-inspired piping, these bold designs prove that red can be both timeless and modern when styled thoughtfully. 

    If you’re looking to make a statement on your wedding day, a red wedding cake might just be the sweetest way to do it. 

    SEE MORE: The rectangular wedding cake trend (and why we’re loving it)

    The rectangular wedding cake trend (and why we’re loving it)

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    Questions to ask your videographer before your big day
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    Questions to ask your videographer before your big day

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    Your wedding photographs are one of the few tangible reminders you’ll have of your big day. If you haven’t already thought of it, a wedding video will also allow you to watch the day unfold again – bit by bit.

    You’ll relive almost every experience from the recital of your vows to showing off your moves on the dance floor. But don’t settle for just any old chump with a video-camera. A quality videographer does not come cheap and considering your wedding video will last for a lifetime,  you can’t afford to take the time to do your homework.

    If you’re researching potential videographers and are unsure of how to go about picking one, make sure to ask them these important questions.

    How long have you been shooting weddings?

    As with many other professionals, it’s normally the videographers who have the most experience under their belt who you can count on to produce the best results. Being aware that there are no chances for second takes at weddings, a seasoned pro will be prepared to capture all the candid moments on your big day, be able to competently cope with unpredictable mishaps and be sharp enough to spot the heartfelt yet less noticeable moments those still new to the game may miss.

    However, this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t go for someone with less experience. If they’re new to the wedding game but have solid references from other types of shoots, they may still be the perfect option.

    What’s your style of shooting?

    Two main styles can be adopted: cinematic and documentary. A cinematic style, as the name implies, involves using feature-film methods to craft an arty movie. In contrast, a documentary-style involves outlining all the highlights of the event from beginning to end.

    To avoid disappointment, ensure your videographer’s style matches your expectations by watching previous wedding films they’ve shot.

    How does your pricing work?

    Videographers usually require you pay a flat rate based on the number of hours they’ll be shooting. They might also have designed fixed packages that include different products and services for different budgets. Whether your videographer bills you a flat rate or you’re opting for a package, it’s crucial you’re crystal clear on what is and isn’t part of the deal.

    Note: Have any agreement you make with them sent to you in writing so if you’re disappointed with the product after, you have documentation outlining the promises made.

    What does your schedule look like on my wedding date?

    You want your videographer to focus solely on your wedding so make sure they have nothing else planned for that day. Having only one wedding to shoot guarantees your videographer will give you their undivided attention and that they’ll capture every aspect of the occasion they agreed to. Juggling multiple weddings or shoots in one day could mean your videographer does a rushed job.

    Will you be the one shooting my wedding?

    Some videographers work for large studios that commonly take on several projects per day or weekend. When you first make contact, you probably won’t speak to the person who will be filming your wedding. If this is the case, get the contact details of the videographer assigned to you and set up a meeting with them. This will give you the chance to get comfortable with them as well as ask them any pressing questions about their style of shooting.

    Will you be working with an assistant?

    Having an assistant is key because it’ll be challenging or nearly impossible for all the necessary footage to be shot without one. To make your video exciting, it’s best to have certain parts of your wedding and, most of all, your ceremony, shot from varying angles. Keep in mind that having more than three videographers isn’t recommended because they’ll probably end up getting in each other’s way – and possibly your photographer’s too.

    Which photographers have you enjoyed working with?

    Your photographer and videographer will operate as a close-knit team to create valuable footage that’ll last a lifetime. So it’s a huge plus if they’ve had positive experiences with each other before – and even better if they come as a package! If they’ve never worked together, set up a meeting before the wedding to chat about their approach to collaborating as they document the day’s events. If they compete, rather than co-operate, to get shots, it could lead to tension – and terrible photographs and footage.

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    Are you a bridezilla or a bridechilla?

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    Planning a wedding requires a lot of patience, time and attention to detail. For many it can be quite stressful and can take a toll on not only your time, but your emotions as well. Which begs the questions… are you a bridezilla or a bridechilla?

    Bridezilla 

    This is a bride who is stressing about everything and has little to no, well, ‘chill’. She’s determined and dead-set on getting her way and making sure everyone complies. A bridezilla has imagined her wedding day for what seems like forever and nothing is going to stop her from ensuring that her big day is exactly how she pictured. There’s nothing wrong with going after what you want, but be aware that these brides are usually not considerate of those around them and this can relate to money, schedules etc.

    Bridezillas want things a certain way and want to make sure that their big day is perfect in every way. They’re usually very hands-on and will want control over all aspects of the planning. Wedding planner? What wedding planner??

    If she’s surrounded by people who are unsure and don’t really know what to do, where to lend a hand or what to contribute, then a bridezilla may not be all that bad. After all, she’ll tell them.

    The bridezilla will have planned everything down to the smallest detail, because she wants that first-hand reassurance that everything will be smooth sailing. Because when it comes to your wedding and paying large amounts of money, you want to know what’s going on 100% of the time.

    Bridechilla

    Basically, everything that was mentioned above, just the complete opposite. The bridechilla doesn’t seem to fuss over things and she just goes with the flow. It’s not that she’s careless, but she’s just not worried about everything as much. She doesn’t seek control over every little aspect of the planning process.

    Being a bridechilla seems like it’s the easy choice, but it’s important to keep some things in mind about the laid back bride.

    There is such a thing as being too chilled. When the bride-to-be is showing little to no interest about the wedding planning, there’s a great possibility that those around her will have to pick up the slack.

    Some people enjoy some direction. For example, a bridechilla may tell her bridesmaids to wear what they want. This may leave them feeling confused and unsure of what exactly to wear or what the limitations are. Stress and frustration can be transferred to those around the bridechilla.

    So… are you one of them?

    This is your big day after all, so it should be exactly what you want, but you shouldn’t be over-stressing and taking all the fun out of it. With that being said, you shouldn’t allow those around you to carry all the weight, or, alternatively, feel like they have no say at all.

    Trying to maintain a balance of both is the ideal – taking control but also letting go when needed. It’s great to know what you want and to have control of the planning, but you shouldn’t be too forceful, and don’t forget to chill out now and then.

    ALSO SEE: Bridesmaid proposal ideas

    Bridesmaid ‘proposal’ ideas

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    expenses
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    Be prepared for these expenses if you’re a wedding guest

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    It’s always great receiving an invitation to a wedding. It’s a joyous occasion that you are honoured to be part of. As excited as you may be, your wallet might not be as thrilled. All the costs are easy to forget, so be prepared for these expenses if you’re a wedding guest.

    The engagement party

    Couples usually have an engagement party to celebrate the good news and the marriage to come. It’s not always a big thing, but there is a chance that you may encounter a few expenses.

    • You may need to purchase a gift. It’s not a requirement, but if you feel the need to get the couple a gift, it doesn’t have to be anything fancy or over the top and you shouldn’t feel pressured into getting something expensive.
    • Not all engagement parties are super formal, but if the one you’re going to happens to be, and you don’t own anything up to par, then you may need to go on a little shopping trip.
    • Hopefully, there are drinks available but if the soiree doesn’t feature an open bar, you’ll have to fork out some cash for your liquor.
    Bridal shower
    • Pitching up with a gift is now expected unless stated otherwise, so that’s definitely a deduction.
    The bachelor/bachelorette party
    • A gift may not be necessary but depending on how close you are to the bride, you may be required to contribute to various things surrounding the party itself.
    • If you’re going out, you may have to pay your own way for things like dinner and drinks.
    • Travel costs. Now, this isn’t always the case, but you may be required to travel to a destination for the party. Whether it’s an hour or plane away, that’s still a cost.
    The wedding
    • Travel comes up again, as the ceremony and reception may be held at a special place that’s of course at a distance. You’ll have to make your own way there unless stated otherwise.
    • This is the main event and a special gift is now mandatory. Most couples opt for a wedding registry that consists of a variety of gifts with different price tags, big and small.
    • Since it is the big day, you have to look your best. Depending on what the dress code is and what’s available in your closet, you may need to stop window shopping.
    • If it is a destination wedding, chances are, you may need to sort out your own accommodation. Some couples may book a few rooms at a hotel but you’ll have to pay your own way.

    It’s important to remember that even if you get an invitation to all the wedding festivities, you don’t have to attend them all, especially since they can become quite costly.

    As expensive as all these things may seem, before you decline the invitation, keep in mind that all the things listed may not be applicable to all events.

    ALSO SEE: Wedding guest dress code explained

    Wedding guest dress code… explained

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    family in-law
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    How to keep your (soon-to-be) family-in-law happy

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    So you’re engaged, and although it’s an exciting and thrilling time for both you and your significant other, conflict is bound to arise, often in the form of your soon-to-be family-in-law. Some cases may be worse than others, but we’d like to help you lessen the load. Read on for some practical tips and thoughts on how to keep them happy, and, appropriately involved.

    Acceptance

    First of all, you need to make peace with the fact that your wedding planning journey will come with a fair share of stress, drama and mishaps, but all of this could be managed easily by not stressing about the things you cannot change. That goes for the family you’re marrying into as well. If you’ve known the person you’re marrying for a good amount of time, you probably know their family too – including their habits and preferences. Just because you’re getting married doesn’t mean those things will change, so make it easier for yourself by making peace with it – you’d want your S.O to do the same for you.

    You marry the family, too.

    That said, your new spouse’s family is accepting a new member into theirs, as your family is too, so be mindful about including them in the planning process. Your wedding is a celebration of not only two people coming together, but two families uniting, so they need to feel that their opinions matter too. This doesn’t mean that you have to take every suggestion they make to heart, but they’ll feel much more included if you make an effort to hear them out and make some compromises.

    Take a stand

    Sometimes, keeping the peace means taking a stand. It’s extremely difficult to avoid hurting the feelings of someone who simply wants to help, but sometimes their need to help is greater than your need for it. Don’t allow yourself to get into a situation too deep before realising that you’re allowing things to happen that will ultimately make you unhappy. Say no when you need to, but explain your feelings and reasoning behind it so that a mutual understanding can be reached.

    Same page

    You and your S.O absolutely need to be on the same page when it comes to making the decisions in your planning process. This will allow you to adequately explain your reasoning to your families, without throwing anyone under the bus. However, if your parents are paying for some parts of the wedding, you need to be on the same page with them too. Be open about what you want, your visions and expectations to avoid unnecessary conflict, especially if you’re not the one paying for it.

    Lessen the load

    Just because it’s your wedding doesn’t mean you have to plan, take care of and do everything. Make your vision clear and allow your mother-in-law, father-in-law or whoever-in-law to help you out with making calls, DIY projects, collections or whatever it is you may need. This will allow them to feel involved, but not in an overwhelming way where they have the ability to make decisions for you. However, looking at the other side of the spectrum could be just as tricky. Maybe your father-in-law is great at building things with his hands, but up until now you haven’t been getting along that well. Take the plunge and ask him for help with your DIY projects – it might be the starting point for the relationship you’ve been looking for.

    ALSO SEE: 8 guidelines for father of the groom

    8 guidelines for father of the groom

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    rain
    In Advice

    Back-up plans for rainy autumn and winter weddings

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    Alongside all the beauty of an autumn or winter wedding comes one unpredictable guest: rain. And while a few drops might make for dreamy photos, a full-on downpour can quickly turn “I do” into “what now?”

    The good news? A little foresight goes a long way. With the right backup plan, your wedding can feel just as magical — if not more so — no matter what the skies decide.

    Start with a Plan B (and actually love it)
    A backup plan shouldn’t feel like a compromise. Whether it’s a marquee, a covered veranda, or an indoor space at your venue, choose an option you genuinely love. That way, if the weather turns, it does not feel like a like a last-minute scramble.

    Think soft draping, warm lighting, and layered textures that echo your original vision. Done right, your “Plan B” can feel just as considered and beautiful as your outdoor setup.

    Tents, but make them chic
    If you’re set on an outdoor celebration, a tent is your best insurance policy. But forget the standard white marquee — today’s options are anything but basic. Clear-roof tents let in that moody autumn sky (minus the rain), while sailcloth tents bring a romantic feel.

     

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    A post shared by Cape Tents (@capetents)

    Lean into the season
    Instead of fighting the weather, embrace it. Autumn and winter are the perfect excuse for thoughtful touches that double as practical solutions — think plush blankets for guests, warm welcome drinks like mulled wine or spiced cider, and even a basket of umbrellas that match your colour palette.

    Have a timeline that can flex
    Weather doesn’t always follow a schedule, so build a little breathing room into yours. If there’s a chance of showers, consider moving key moments like your ceremony earlier in the day, or be open to shifting things slightly if needed.

    Work closely with your planner or venue coordinator — they’ve likely handled this before and can guide the flow without disrupting the mood.

    Communicate with your suppliers
    From your photographer to your florist, your suppliers should be looped into your backup plan from the start. Photographers, in particular, can help you identify covered spots for portraits or suggest creative alternatives that still capture the essence of your day.

    Florists can also advise on blooms that hold up better in cooler, damp conditions.

    Footwear matters more than you think
    Those delicate heels might look beautiful, but damp grass and soft ground can be unforgiving. Consider a second pair of shoes (stylish flats, boots, or block heels) that will keep you comfortable and confident, whatever the terrain.

    The same goes for your bridal party — a heads-up here can save a lot of wobbling down the aisle.

    ALSO SEE: Wedding dress inspo for autumn and winter brides

    Wedding dress inspo for autumn and winter brides

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    fragrances
    In Advice

    Clash of the scents: A gentleman’s guide to fragrances

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    Mixing cologne, body spray, deodorant and aftershave can become a messy affair. Here is our gentlemen’s guide to understanding these different products and how to use them: 
     
    Cologne is the strongest form of fragrance and generally lasts the longest. It’s ideal for nights out, a special date, or more formal functions. 
    Body sprays are the second strongest. These nifty, portable sprays are great for daytime or after gym wear. Sprays last a few hours and can be easily re-applied to keep you smelling fresh.
    Aftershave and deodorant serve dual functions. These products don’t just smell good, they also serve a purpose. We suggest using neutral-smelling aftershaves and deodorants to avoid scents clashing and becoming muddied, while still benefitting from their practical usage. 
    Aftershave contains soothing and anti-bacterial agents. It prevents irritations, itching, burning and rashes, all while hydrating your skin too. It usually contains a type of astringent, an ingredient that seals up pores to prevent bacteria infecting the skin after shaving.
    Deodorant, the most subdued of all scents, is mostly functional. It’s important to note that not all deodorants are antiperspirants. Antiperspirants close or block the pores under your pits, working against your natural odour, while a deodorant masks the smell of sweat while still allowing skin to breathe. Antiperspirants not only reduce sweating, but also regulate your skin’s pH level, preventing stinky pits.
    To strike a perfect balance, we suggest choosing one fragrance (cologne or body spray) according to the occasion and combining it with a neutral aftershave and deodorant.
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