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    The ultimate guide to honeymoon road-tripping
    In Accessories

    The ultimate guide to honeymoon road-tripping

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    There’s nothing quite like the feeling of freedom that comes with the open road – and there’s no better person to share it with than your new spouse. Just married, chasing adventure with good music, scenic stops, and uninterrupted conversation? That’s honeymoon magic.

    If you’re planning a honeymoon road trip, here are a few things to keep in mind before you hit the highway.

    Avoid Breakdowns and Breakouts

    Before you embark on your journey, make sure your car is properly serviced – especially the filters, fluid levels, brakes, tyres, belts, oil, and water. Check that your tyre pressure is correct and inspect your wiper blades, indicators, brake lights, and headlights.

    If you’re travelling through different climates or remote areas, ensure your vehicle is prepared for changing weather conditions. And if you’re road-tripping during a South African summer, don’t forget to check the air conditioner – nothing kills romance faster than being stuck in traffic in unbearable heat.

    It’s also worth downloading offline maps ahead of time in case signal drops along your route.

    Clean Up, Stock Up

    There’s no better way to begin your honeymoon than in a freshly cleaned car. Turn the pre-trip prep into part of the fun with a quick car wash date before departure.

    Stock up on snacks, padkos, and plenty of water – buying from grocery stores beforehand is usually far cheaper than relying on petrol station convenience stops. Pack blankets and pillows for extra comfort, especially if one of you wants to nap between destinations.

    Finally, don’t skip the emergency kit. Include essentials like:

    • A flashlight and extra batteries
    • Jumper cables
    • A first aid kit
    • Spare tyre and tyre repair kit
    • Portable phone charger or power bank
    • Emergency contact numbers
    • Being over-prepared is always better than being stranded.

    If You’re Renting

    If you’re renting a car, companies like Hertz, Avis, Budget, and Thrifty offer a variety of vehicle options and pickup locations.

    Look out for package deals that combine flights, accommodation, and car rental – they can save you a significant amount on honeymoon costs.

    If you’re renting abroad, check whether your destination requires an International Driving Permit (IDP). It’s also important to note that manual transmission vehicles are still standard in many countries. If you’re used to driving automatic, reserve one well in advance, as availability can be limited and rates are often higher.

    And yes – screenshot or print your booking confirmation. Airport Wi-Fi has a habit of failing exactly when you need it most.

    Are We There Yet?

    Planning the time spent in the car together can be just as important as planning the destinations themselves. A long drive can either become part of the adventure – or feel very, very long.

    Prepare some entertainment ahead of time to keep the energy fun and relaxed. Think curated playlists, nostalgic singalongs, podcasts, audiobooks, or even a few classic road-trip games.

    Here are a few ideas to make the journey more memorable:

    • Car games

    They’re not just for kids. Classics like I Spy or the licence plate game are surprisingly entertaining when the kilometres start blending.

    • Story time

    Take turns reading aloud from a book, sharing funny memories, or even telling each other stories you’ve never heard before.

    • Create an on-the-road scrapbook

    Snap photos of quirky roadside stops, beautiful scenery, and funny moments along the way. The blurry selfies and petrol station coffee runs often become the best memories later.

    • Tunes for the trail

    A good playlist can completely shape the mood of a road trip. Create one together before you leave, blending both your favourites with songs that feel like the start of a new chapter.

    The journey is the honeymoon

    A honeymoon road trip isn’t about rushing from one destination to the next – it’s about the moments in between. The unexpected stops, terrible padkos combinations, inside jokes, scenic detours, and quiet conversations are often the memories that last the longest.

    So, leave a little room for spontaneity, keep your itinerary flexible, and enjoy the ride together. After all, the best love stories rarely stick perfectly to the route.

    ALSO SEE: How to pick your honeymoon destination

    How to pick your honeymoon destination

    Feature image: Pinterest

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    officiate a wedding
    In Advice

    Tips to officiate a wedding like a pro

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    Being asked to officiate a wedding is a pretty big deal. Whether it’s your best friend, your cousin or a sibling tying the knot, being chosen to lead one of the most important moments in someone’s life is equal parts exciting, emotional and slightly terrifying.

    Before you panic-Google “how to marry people”, here’s what you need to know. From legal requirements to speech tips, these are the most important tips for officiating a marriage without turning the ceremony into a rambling TED Talk.

    First things first: Can anyone officiate a wedding in South Africa?

    This is where things get a little tricky.

    In South Africa, not just anyone can legally officiate a marriage. To legally marry a couple, you need to be an authorised marriage officer registered with the Department of Home Affairs.

    This usually includes:

    • Religious leaders
    • Certain government officials
    • Designated marriage officers

    So if your friend asks you to officiate their wedding, you technically cannot legally sign the marriage documents unless you’re officially registered and authorised.

    So what do couples usually do?

    A lot of modern couples choose to split the legal and ceremonial parts of the wedding.

    This means:

    • The legal paperwork is done separately through a registered marriage officer or at Department of Home Affairs
    • Then a friend or family member leads the symbolic ceremony on the wedding day itself

    Honestly? Guests usually never even notice the difference. It allows couples to have a more personal, relaxed and meaningful ceremony led by someone who actually knows them.

    Tips for officiating a marriage without freezing up

    Get the vibe right

    Before you write a single word, chat to the couple properly.

    Ask them:

    • Do they want funny, emotional or formal?
    • Are there religious or cultural traditions involved?
    • Do they want guests to laugh, cry or both?
    • Are there any topics or inside jokes to avoid?

    Some couples want a light-hearted ceremony with personality. Others want something more traditional and sentimental. Your job is to set the tone.

    Start with a strong opening

    The first few lines matter more than you think.

    You do not need to sound like a movie narrator or a royal announcer. Keep it warm and natural.

    Tell their story

    One of the best tips for officiating a marriage is remembering that the ceremony is about the couple, not your stand-up comedy debut.

    Share:

    • How they met
    • What makes their relationship special
    • Small moments that show who they are together
    • Why the people around them love them

    Avoid:

    • Embarrassing stories
    • Ex drama
    • Overly private details
    • Anything that could make grandparents uncomfortable

    If you’re using humour, keep it light and inclusive.

    Include personal touches

    This is where a friend or family member officiating can really shine.

    You can include:

    • Personal vows
    • Readings or poems
    • Cultural traditions
    • A moment of silence for loved ones
    • Guest participation
    • A ring warming ceremony

    Practice more than you think you need to

    Even confident public speakers get nervous at weddings.

    Read your script out loud multiple times before the day. Timing, pacing and pronunciation feel very different in your head compared to saying them aloud in front of 100 people and a crying flower girl.

    A few practical tips:

    • Print your speech out
    • Use larger font sizes
    • Speak slower than normal
    • Pause after emotional moments
    • Keep water nearby
    • Don’t wing it completely

    How long should the ceremony speech be?

    Shorter is usually better.

    Most wedding ceremonies sit comfortably between 15 and 30 minutes depending on:

    • Vows
    • Readings
    • Rituals
    • Religious elements

    If you’re leading a non-religious ceremony, aim for meaningful rather than marathon-length.

    Nobody wants to hear you speaking longer than the reception speeches.

    What should you actually say during the ceremony?

    Most ceremonies follow a simple structure:

    1. Welcome guests
    2. Introduce the couple’s story
    3. Share thoughts about marriage or love
    4. Move into vows
    5. Exchange rings
    6. Official declaration
    7. The kiss
    8. Final introduction of the married couple

    You don’t need fancy language. You just need sincerity.

    ALSO SEE: Nail your wedding speech

    Nail your wedding speech

    Feature image: Pexels

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    bridal expo
    In Advice

    Brahman Hills Bridal Expo returns to the Midlands this weekend

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    A beautiful wedding is built through thoughtful details, trusted suppliers and thorough planning.

    This Sunday, 24 May 2026, couples are invited to the annual Brahman Hills Bridal Expo in the Midlands. It’s a day designed to make wedding planning feel a little less overwhelming and a lot more exciting. Bringing together some of the industry’s leading suppliers, creatives and wedding experts under one roof, the expo offers couples the chance to move from saved Pinterest boards to real-life planning.

    From dreamy decor and elegant gowns to cakes, photographers, entertainment and ceremony specialists, the expo is packed with inspiration for every part of the big day. More importantly, it’s an opportunity to meet the people behind the brands, ask questions, compare ideas and start piecing together a wedding that feels personal, intentional and beautifully put together.

    “Couples want a wedding that reflects who they are, but they also want peace of mind knowing every detail will be handled with care,” says Onwaba Gonyora, Director at Brahman Hills and wedding expert. “The Brahman Hills Bridal Expo brings that together by connecting couples with trusted suppliers, practical advice and a beautiful setting where ideas can truly come to life.”

    Guests can expect a strong line-up of wedding suppliers, including Enhle Creatives, Magic Thyme, Nxeleshians, Obsessive Cupcake Disorder, Cake House, Posh Events, Weddings by Jackie, Real Beats Entertainment, DJ Ash, DJ Marcel, Conway Photography, Legacy Studios, Photos by Chene, MPMSA Photo, Mawande Kheswa Imaging, Black T Artistry, House of Kym, CC Designs, Dream Ceremonies, Wedding Celebrant, Weddings by Reg Courtney, Mystical Pyrotechnics, Chris Jenkins Saxophonist, Gifts by Rue and Jesus Is King Luxury Gifting Collective.

    The Bridal Expo takes place from 10:00 to 15:00, with tickets priced at R50 per person. Food and drinks will also be available throughout the day.

    Whether you’re newly engaged or busy finalising the finer details, the expo offers more than just inspiration. It’s a chance to connect with experts, discover new ideas and take the next step towards a wedding day that feels meaningful, seamless and uniquely yours.

    To buy tickets, visit Quicket

    ALSO SEE: Upcoming bridal expos & wedding events across South Africa

    Upcoming bridal expos & wedding events across South Africa

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    Thank-you gifts: outdated tradition or wedding must-have?
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    Thank-you gifts: outdated tradition or wedding must-have?

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    Modern weddings are changing – and fast. Couples are rethinking everything from formal seating plans to bouquet tosses, choosing experiences and intentional details over traditions that no longer feel relevant to them. And somewhere in the middle of that conversation sits the question of wedding thank-you gifts.

    Are they still a meaningful gesture guests appreciate? Or have they quietly become another wedding expense couples feel pressured to include?

    The truth is wedding favours are no longer the automatic “must-have” they once were. But that does not necessarily mean they are outdated either.

    Why wedding thank-you gifts became such a staple

    Wedding favours have long symbolised gratitude, good luck and appreciation. Traditionally, couples would gift guests small keepsakes as a way of thanking them for being part of the celebration.

    Over the years, those gifts evolved into everything from personalised candles and chocolates to miniature olive oil bottles, succulents and custom keyrings. For a while, wedding favours became almost expected – another detail on the never-ending wedding planning checklist.

    But couples are approaching weddings differently now. Budgets are being prioritised more intentionally, guest experiences are taking centre stage, and many couples are asking themselves whether certain traditions still feel meaningful.

    Guests remember the feeling more than the favour

    Here’s the reality: most guests are far more likely to remember the atmosphere of your wedding than the physical favour they took home.

    They will remember:

    • The energy on the dance floor
    • The incredible food
    • The emotional ceremony
    • The thoughtful hosting
    • The way your wedding felt personal and true to you

    That does not mean thank-you gifts cannot add something special – they absolutely can. But the pressure to include them simply because “everyone does” is slowly disappearing.

    And honestly? Guests are not usually leaving a wedding disappointed because they did not receive a monogrammed candle.

    The modern shift toward intentional gifting

    The biggest wedding trend right now is intentionality – and thank-you gifts are no exception.

    Couples are moving away from generic favours that get left behind on reception tables and leaning toward gifts that feel more personal, practical or experience-driven instead.

    Some of the most popular ideas include:

    • Late-night snack stations
    • Handwritten thank-you notes
    • Mini local treats or cultural products
    • Recovery kits for the next morning
    • Personalised drink stirrers or place settings guests can keep
    • Photo booth prints or Polaroid moments

    In many cases, the “gift” is becoming part of the overall guest experience rather than a separate wedding tradition.

    When wedding favours still work beautifully

    There are still plenty of weddings where thank-you gifts feel incredibly thoughtful and well-suited to the celebration.

    They tend to work especially well when:

    • The wedding is intimate and highly personalised
    • Guests are travelling long distances
    • The couple wants to honour cultural traditions
    • The favour ties naturally into the wedding aesthetic
    • The gift feels useful or genuinely memorable

    Destination weddings often benefit from welcome bags or locally inspired gifts that help guests feel looked after from the moment they arrive.

    Couples are no longer afraid to skip traditions

    One of the best things about current weddings is that couples are becoming far more comfortable choosing what matters to them.

    Not every wedding needs:

    • A cake cutting
    • Matching bridesmaid dresses
    • A bouquet toss
    • Wedding favours
    • Or even a perfectly traditional timeline

    The pressure to “do everything” is fading – and weddings are becoming better for it.

    If thank-you gifts fit naturally into your budget and vision, they can absolutely elevate the experience. But if they feel forced, unnecessary or financially stressful, couples should feel completely comfortable skipping them.

    So… outdated tradition or wedding must-have?

    Wedding thank-you gifts are no longer an expectation – and perhaps that is exactly why the meaningful ones still stand out.

    The modern approach is less about obligation and more about thoughtfulness. If your favours genuinely reflect your personality, your guests or your wedding experience, they can still leave a lasting impression.

    But at the end of the day, guests will always remember how your wedding made them feel far more than the gift they carried home.

    ALSO SEE: 6 DIY thank-you gifts that won’t break the bank

    6 DIY thank-you gifts that won’t break the bank

    Featured image: Pinterest 

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    5 Wedding morning mistakes brides always regret
    In Advice

    5 Wedding morning mistakes brides always regret

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    For all the energy that goes into planning the perfect wedding, the wedding morning itself is often treated like an afterthought. But ask almost any bride, photographer or makeup artist, and they’ll tell you the same thing: the tone of the morning sets the tone for the entire day.

    And while social media tends to romanticise matching robes, champagne towers and perfectly curated flat lays, the reality is that wedding mornings can become overwhelming very quickly.

    The good news? Most of the stress brides experience before the ceremony comes from a few very avoidable mistakes.

    Here are five wedding morning mistakes brides often regret – and what to do instead.

    Trying to manage the entire wedding from the bridal suite

    If you’re answering supplier calls while getting your hair done, your morning is already becoming more stressful than it needs to be. One of the biggest mistakes brides make is feeling like they need to oversee every detail until the very last second.

    But the truth is, your wedding morning is not the time to coordinate logistics, troubleshoot décor issues or respond to timeline questions.

    That’s exactly why coordinators, bridesmaids and trusted family members exist. Choose one person to handle any problems or supplier communication on the day and let them protect your peace a little. Most issues can be solved without involving you at all.

    Because the reality is: you only get this morning once. You deserve to experience it.

    Forgetting to eat and hydrate

    It sounds obvious, but this happens far more often than people realise. Between nerves, excitement and early glam call times, many brides unintentionally survive the morning on coffee, champagne and adrenaline alone – which usually catches up to them halfway through photos or during the ceremony itself.

    Low energy, headaches, dizziness and emotional overwhelm are often made worse simply because the body hasn’t been looked after properly.

    A proper breakfast and consistent hydration genuinely make a difference. Nothing overly heavy – just enough to keep your energy stable throughout the day.

    Your makeup will sit better, your body will feel better, and you’ll enjoy the celebration instead of trying to recover from exhaustion by sunset.

    Turning the bridal suite into a Pinterest set

    There’s nothing wrong with wanting beautiful details and aesthetic moments. That’s part of the fun. But sometimes wedding mornings become so focused on creating content that the atmosphere starts feeling chaotic instead of calm.

    Too many personalised items, unnecessary props, overcrowded spaces and excessive décor can quickly make the room feel stressful – especially once photographers, hairstylists, makeup artists and bridesmaids are all moving around simultaneously.

    Ironically, the most beautiful wedding morning photos usually come from spaces that feel natural, relaxed and emotionally present.

    Keep the meaningful details. Let go of the pressure to make every corner “Instagram-worthy.”

    Not leaving enough buffer time

    Wedding mornings almost always take longer than expected. Someone forgets earrings. Hair takes an extra thirty minutes. Steamers stop working. A bridesmaid suddenly needs safety pins. Something will happen.

    And when the schedule is too tight, even small delays create unnecessary panic.

    One of the smartest things couples can do is intentionally build breathing room into the timeline. Aim to be ready earlier than necessary instead of exactly on time.

    Because rushing changes the entire energy of the morning – and, unfortunately, it’s often one of the things brides remember most afterwards.

    Forgetting to be present in the moment

    This is probably the biggest one of all.

    The wedding morning moves fast – faster than most brides expect. One minute you’re sitting in pyjamas with coffee, and the next you’re stepping into your dress preparing to walk down the aisle. And somewhere between the glam, timelines and excitement, many brides forget to pause and absorb what’s happening.

    Take a few quiet moments if you can. Put your phone down occasionally. Look around the room. Hug your people properly. Let yourself feel the day instead of racing through it. Because years from now, you probably won’t remember every tiny detail that went right or wrong.

    But you will remember how the morning felt.

    The best wedding mornings rarely look perfect

    Ironically, the wedding mornings people remember most fondly are usually the ones that felt genuine – not flawless.

    It’s the laughter while getting ready. Your mom crying while saying, “But you were just a little girl yesterday.” The “this is the last time we’re doing this before you’re a wife” comments, or a sibling casually stealing your glass of water while you’re trying not to smudge your lipstick. The quiet, intimate presence of the people you love surrounding you while everything is about to change.

    Not because everything was perfectly in place, but because everything was felt deeply.

    Raw emotion. Real connection. Authentic love in a room that will never feel exactly like that again. And somehow, that’s what stays with you the most.

    ALSO SEE: 5 Ways to practice self care while planning your wedding

    5 Ways to practice self care while planning your wedding

    Featured image: Pinterest 

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    Modern Guide to Choosing Wedding Bands Together
    In Advice

    A modern guide to choosing wedding bands together

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    Choosing wedding bands used to feel fairly straightforward: walk into a jewellery store, choose a classic gold band and leave with a matching set before the afternoon was over. But much like weddings themselves, the process has become far more personal. Today’s couples are approaching wedding bands with a different mindset. Beyond tradition, there’s now a stronger focus on individuality, lifestyle and finding pieces that feel reflective of the relationship itself. For some, that means timeless matching bands. For others, it’s mixed metals, custom engravings or completely different styles altogether.

    There’s no single “right” way to do it anymore – and honestly, that’s what makes the process feel more meaningful. From practical considerations to personal style, here’s a modern guide to choosing wedding bands together.

    Start with lifestyle before aesthetics

    As tempting as it is to fall straight into Pinterest boards and jewellery inspiration videos, the first thing couples should consider is everyday life. A ring may look beautiful in a velvet box, but how does it fit into your actual routine? Someone who works with their hands daily may prioritise durability and comfort, while someone else may lean towards something more delicate or design focused. Because while aesthetics matter, these are pieces meant to be worn long after the wedding photos have been posted and the flowers have wilted.

    Matching bands are no longer the expectation

    One of the biggest shifts in modern wedding jewellery is the move away from perfectly matching rings. Many couples are now choosing bands that complement one another rather than mirror each other exactly. Think different metals within the same design family, varying textures or completely different widths that still feel cohesive together. For some couples, matching bands feel symbolic and sentimental. For others, choosing individual styles feels more authentic to who they are. Neither approach is more romantic than the other.

    Think about how the wedding band works with the engagement ring

    For brides who wear their engagement ring daily, the wedding band needs to work alongside it rather than compete with it. Some prefer a seamless stacked look, while others intentionally choose contrasting bands to create more dimension and personality. Curved bands, pavé details and mixed-metal combinations continue to grow in popularity for exactly this reason. Trying rings on together also makes a noticeable difference. What works beautifully on its own can feel completely different once paired alongside an engagement ring.

    Metal choice matters more than most people realise

    Gold remains a classic favourite, but modern couples are becoming far more experimental with materials and finishes. Yellow gold continues to dominate thanks to its warm, vintage-inspired appeal, while platinum and white gold offer a cleaner, more contemporary look. Rose gold still offers a softer, romantic feel, while matte finishes, brushed textures and black titanium bands are becoming increasingly popular amongst couples wanting something slightly less traditional. There’s also been a growing interest in heirloom redesigns, incorporating sentimental family jewellery into modern pieces that still carry emotional significance.

    Budget conversations are part of the process

    Wedding bands may seem like a smaller detail compared to venues, florals or fashion, but costs can escalate quickly – especially once customisation enters the picture. Having honest conversations around budget early on makes the entire process far less stressful. For some couples, investing in bespoke craftsmanship or premium metals feels worthwhile. For others, practicality and longevity matter more than luxury branding. At the end of the day, the goal is not to impress people. It’s to choose rings that feel sustainable, personal and true to your relationship.

    Engravings are becoming far more personal

    Classic initials and wedding dates will always have their place, but couples are finding more creative ways to personalise their bands. Coordinates, private phrases, voice-note soundwaves and meaningful lyrics are turning wedding bands into deeply personal keepsakes rather than purely symbolic pieces. And often, it’s those small details that end up meaning the most years later.

    Don’t rush the decision

    Despite how fast-paced wedding planning can feel, choosing wedding bands should never feel rushed. Visit different jewellers. Try on styles you wouldn’t normally consider. Ask questions about maintenance, resizing and durability. And most importantly, choose rings that feel like an honest reflection of both of you – not simply whatever happens to be trending online at the moment.

    Beyond the wedding day

    At its core, choosing wedding bands together is less about tradition and more about intention.

    Some couples will choose timeless matching bands, while others will gravitate towards completely different styles that simply feel right for them individually. There’s no perfect formula anymore — and that’s part of what makes modern weddings feel far more personal than they once did.  The best wedding bands are not necessarily the trendiest or most expensive pieces in the room. They’re the ones that still feel like you years from now: comfortable, meaningful and chosen with care. 

    Because long after the seating charts, floral installations and reception playlists fade into memory, these are the pieces that stay with you every single day. 

    SEE MORE: Alternative engagement ring stones

    Alternative engagement ring stones

    Featured image: Pinterest 

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    wedding exit
    In Advice

    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: 

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    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
    In Advice

    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. 

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    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)

    Featured Image: Pinterest 

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    Questions to ask your videographer before your big day
    In Advice

    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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