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In Advice

A truly moving wedding venue: Rovos Rail

June 3, 2020 No Comments

Static wedding venues are so last season. Why not get your marriage started on a journey literally with a wedding aboard a train!

The Rovos Rail in Pretoria is South Africa’s most luxurious train, linking the country to destinations such as Dar Es Salaam in Tanzania, Victoria Falls and Namibia. There are a number of inter-country trails as well.

The train was first established in 1989, and has since earned an international reputation for its world-class travel experience.

“With discreet and friendly service, fine cuisine and a selection of South Africa’s top wines, Rovos Rail harks back to a simpler, more elegant era encompassing the timeless grace and high romance of African exploration,” says Rovos Rail on their website.

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The events train can be hired for a truly unique wedding day. Couples and guests will feel as if they’ve stepped back in time, surrounded by the old-world elegance of the 1920s. Guests are greeted at the private station by a sparkling wine reception before the bride makes her grand entrance in the cab of a steam locomotive.

Couples say their vows on the large train platform in the Edwardian station, with the old steam train in the background. Following the ceremony, guests step aboard the luxury train for a unique reception.

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The train accommodates up to 250 guests and rental includes the train journey as well as a 5-star four-course dinner or lunch, canapés, wait staff, and a full bar hire. Of course, we cannot forget about the stunning views of the passing scenery.

The train’s interior is designed to emulate the old world glamour of the 1920s.

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Would you say ‘I do’ to a train wedding?

Feature image: Instagram / Rovos Rail

In Destination

The happiest place on earth: Disneyland weddings

June 2, 2020 No Comments

Are you a big fan of happily ever after? Well, why not say ‘I do’ at the happiest place on earth – Disneyland!

Disney darlings will adore this wedding location that brings their favourite movies like Beauty and the Beast and Cinderella to life.

There are Disneyland destinations in Florida, California, Hawaii, Tokyo, Paris and even aboard a Disney cruise. The various Disney theme parks across the world offer multiple wedding packages for engaged couples to pick and choose from.

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“Memories to cherish forever are about to be made. Each Disney wedding destination offers something unique, something any couple can get excited about and something all your guests can enjoy,” says the company. “World-famous theme parks, award-winning Resort hotels and luxury ocean liners can’t help but make your celebration magical and the perfect prelude to the rest of your lives together. Decide where your fairy tale will begin.”

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Couples can arrive in style in Cinderella’s horse-drawn carriage, tie the knot next to Sleeping Beauty’s castle and even enjoy a Disney-themed wedding cake.

Count your favourite Disney characters in as wedding guests! Mickey Mouse, Aladdin, Mulan and a host of other popular characters can make an appearance at your big day. Couples may even arrange private performances by the renowned Disney entertainers for an extra fee.

Disneyland offers in-house wedding experts, including a day-of coordinator – who handle everything involved in the planning process.

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These packages, however, don’t come cheap. The prices typically include location rental, the ceremony fee, reception food and beverages and the wedding specialists. There are a host of additional services couples may choose from to enhance their event.

Location and ceremony fees range from $2,600 – $10,000 depending on the specific venue chosen. Food and drink is per person, and prices range from $145 to $190 per person depending on whether you want brunch, lunch or dinner.

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Feature image: Unsplash

In Advice

What to do if you’ve booked a destination wedding in 2020

April 21, 2020 No Comments

A destination wedding is probably one of the most difficult types of nuptials to deal with, under the current circumstances. Social distancing and international travel bans essentially ensure that these weddings can’t happen.

At this point, you’re most likely extremely worried about what to do with regards to your destination wedding. Lisa Sheldon operater of I Do Island Weddings & Honeymoons in Janesville and president of Destination Wedding & Honeymoon Specialists Association, told Boston Globe that it might be a bit of a tough situation.

She said that the honeymoon side of things can be quite flexible. However, “it’s a little bit harder when it’s a destination wedding. This is a day that a couple has dreamed about for a long time and planned and spent money on. It’s already an emotional trip — and then to have something like this come in and affect it. . . . That really is out of their control,” she said.

Her advice was to cancel as much as possibly as quickly as possible, in order to get refunds. When the health crisis is contained and things go back to normal, everything can be rebooked.

Many airlines and travel agents have adjusted their policies to allow for cancellations at this time. There is more flexibility now, as suppliers are aware that everything is not in the control of travellers.

Some have advised to change the location to one that is more local. However, in South Africa, no gatherings are allowed so this would not be a viable option.

Unfortunately, the best you can do is chat to all your suppliers as quickly as possible, and attempt to have everything postponed. People will be very understanding during this time, so we’re sure you don’t have that much to worry about.

What’s most important right now is that you consider the health and safety of yourself and your guests. You wouldn’t want to put anyone in to harm’s way. It is an unfortunate turn of events, but things will turn out fine if you put your best foot forward!

If your destination wedding is planned for much later in the year or next year, you may want to have a chat with some travel agents and keep your eyes peeled to the news. You never know, it may still be possible to carry on as planned if the situation surrounding the spread of coronavirus takes a turn for the better.

Image: Unsplash

In Advice

How to have an outstanding outdoor wedding

April 16, 2020 No Comments

With the lockdown in full effect, it seems like everyone is dreaming of the day we may once again step outside and enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors.

Why spend another second inside when you don’t have to? Once things have returned to normal in the world, we predict outdoor weddings will see a big boom as couples and guests revel in the freedom of their movement.

While you’re stuck at home, there is no better time to plan your perfect day. Here are some tips to make your outdoor wedding a day to remember.

Location, location, location:

South Africans are blessed with beautiful scenery around every corner. It is especially important, now more than ever, to support local and choose a wedding venue in the country.

Our top pick is Monate Game Lodge. Located in Modimolle in the Waterberg district of Limpopo, Monate is a 4-star luxury bushveld accommodation and wedding venue where you can truly live out your African dream. Whether your wedding is big or small, the team at this 3000 hectare private game reserve will strive to add that personal touch and tailor each event to every unique pair.

Bridal couples can take their pick from the famous Rock Fig, a majestic Marula tree in a natural cave, the unique bush boma or the traditional Chapel to say ‘I do.’

Experience your dream come true in the gem of the bushveld. Monate Game Lodge is a venue where love falls in love again! For more info contact 014 718 7000 or [email protected]

Light ‘em up:

Both functional and fashionable, good lighting is a major key for your big day. Since you’ll be outdoors, you’ll have natural light to brighten the day. However, as the sun sets you’ll need a few additions. Use varying candle sizes, hanging lamps and tons of fairy lights to create a romantic atmosphere that is perfectly suited for a wedding day.

Remember to take advantage of your space so that your décor complements instead of detracts from what you already have. String fairy lights around tree stumps, line steps with outdoor candles or create a sky full of stars by hanging glass orbs filled with tea lights from the ceiling.

Get comfy:

If you’re planning a summer wedding, don’t forget to take the weather into account. There are tons of small ways to make the summer days a little more manageable. Let your guests stay calm, cool and collected with an ice-cream station or fabulous fan favours. If it gets a little chilly once the evening hits, have some blankets or shawls on hand to pass around.

If your wedding venue space allows, consider setting up a shaded cool-down lounge area for your guests to sit back, relax and take in the views. Conveniently place the bar nearby and the spot will be a hit, especially as the sun goes down.

Let’s play a game:

After being cooped up in the house for so long, your guests will be dying to have a little fun in the sun. Entertain them with some games designed to bring out their inner child. Think giant Jenga, ring toss, limbo or noughts and crosses.

Another bonus? Many of the items you’ll need for these games are easy DIY projects. You can get creative, fill up your time while in quarantine AND save money because you won’t have to outsource another service. Winner, winner.

Feature image: supplied

In Destination

Destination wedding etiquette for the couple

March 25, 2020 No Comments

So you’ve found the perfect partner, and you’ve planned the perfect wedding. Everything seems to be going splendidly. But, there’s one problem. Your destination wedding may be a complication for your guests.

When it comes to a wedding that will take place half way across the world, the most important thing to remember from the get go is that not everyone will make it.

In order to make things as easy and pleasant as possible for your guests, you may want to keep these etiquette tips in mind. After all you’re expecting them to cross the ocean for you.

– Information on the invitation

If you thought a normal wedding invitation required a lot of information, then you’re in for a surprise. In addition to all the normal information you would include, you have to be sure to add a card outlining all the events you have planned for the trip. An itinerary includes the date, time, and location of each event. You also have to provide lodging details.

– When to send save-the-dates

Again, because this is a much larger commitment than a normal wedding, you’ll want to send your save-the-date out as early as possible. Give your guests time to get their lives in order. The more time you give them, the better the chances are that they attend.

– Wedding party and paying

While it’s often not considered obligatory for you to foot the bill for your wedding party, you might want to take them into consideration a bit. Try to make things easy for them by offering affordable lodging options and outfits and try to let them know early so that they can catch cheaper flights. It’s all about being considerate.

– Food and friends

Of course it’s your responsibility to feed your guests at all official wedding events. You don’t have to pay for any other meals. However, it is considered good manners to offer to do so at least once.

– Make your guests feel welcome

A welcome event is always a good idea. It allows guests to mingle and get to know each other. After all, they’ll be spending the next few days together and we wouldn’t want things to get awkward.

Image: Unsplash

In Advice

Have a destination wedding in your own country

March 16, 2020 No Comments

Romantic and exciting, destination weddings have been trending for many years. However, they also have tons of drawbacks. From all the possible legal complications and the fact that not all your guests can afford the pricey airplane ticket to a foreign destination, those opting to tie the knot in a different country will have to make sacrifices on their big day. Instead of limiting your dream wedding, why not go local?

From Parys to Potchefstroom, there are so many small towns in the country that give you that private, destination feel without breaking the bank. Escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a serene day only a few hours away.

One particular wedding venue we’ve been loving is the Nut Farm. Situated in Hartbeespoort, Skeerpoort, the Nut Farm offers spectacular mountain views worthy of your vows. Say your ‘I do’s’ at their open-air chapel with the serene farmland that paints an unforgettable backdrop for your wedding, or go traditional with their inside chapel situated on the second floor of the reception area. Guests will have a beautiful birds eye view of the bride as she makes her entrance, as well as stunning views of the famous Hartbeespoort Dam.

With a spacious reception area, mobile bar and hidden outside fireplaces, this wedding venue serves as a blank canvas for you to live out your vision. Their orchard accommodates intimate or larger celebrations of 200 guests.

Visit their website for more information.

Feature image: supplied

In Advice

Weddings in the time of coronavirus

March 12, 2020 No Comments

The coronavirus pandemic has swept the world, affecting more than just our health. From travel to the economy, the outbreak has affected almost every industry around the world. Even the wedding industry cannot remain unscathed. Here’s what you need to consider in our new reality.

Destination weddings:

If you’ve planned a destination wedding, you might have to rethink it. The disease has reached over 100 countries, with the worst affected being in Europe and Asia. Wuhan, China, the centre of the outbreak, as well as the entire country of Italy have been quarantined.

If you’ve planned a destination wedding in any of the coronavirus-affected countries listed by the World Health Organisation, you’ll have to research any government advice, travel bans or restrictions to determine whether you’ll even be able to make it to your wedding. Stay in contact with your vendors to discuss your options. Importantly, make sure you have wedding insurance to cover any last minute changes. Instead of cancelling, postponing your wedding for a year might be a good plan.

Wedding dresses:

Some brides might be without their dream dress come wedding day. James Marcum, CEO of the largest seller of wedding gowns in the United States, David’s Bridal, told CNN that the situation in China will most likely cause a great disruption to the production of wedding dresses as well as bridesmaid dresses. With the coronavirus outbreak, many factories have temporarily closed their doors to help curb the spread of the disease. Some factories are slowly reopening, but the loss in work has created a production delay which will slow-down the already intricate, time-consuming process of making a wedding dress.

To ensure your dress is done on time, consider having your dress made local and don’t have any fabrics imported. Make use of the fabrics already available.

International guests:

If you have friends and family living abroad in areas that have confirmed coronavirus cases, you could put your own guests at risk. Remember: a wedding gathers a large amount of people in one confined location, and there’s a lot of hugging and kissing happening.

Make sure to stipulate that if your guests have been experiencing flu-like symptoms or have come in contact with anyone who has recently travelled to China or Italy then its advisable that they do not attend the wedding.

Honeymoon:

Your international honeymoon might have to wait a bit longer. With the travel bans / restrictions being put in place in various countries, many newlyweds are ringing in their honeymoon in quarantine. Mauritius, a popular honeymoon destinations, has placed travel bans for anyone coming from South Korea or the three northern Italian provinces most affected by the COVID-19 outbreak. 34 South Korean newly-weds were recently placed in isolation by authorities due to fears over the coronavirus, according to Seoul officials.

If you’ve planned an international honeymoon, do your research into their travel restrictions. However, many governments have advised against non-essential travel, so realistically you might have to postpone your honeymoon.

Feature image: Unsplash

In Advice

Monate: A return to nature

March 3, 2020 No Comments

Couples value experiences over material items. Gone are the days of over-the-top, grandiose weddings that are more about the pomp and flash than the couple. As we become more aware of our impact on the environment, couples are making responsible choices when tying the knot.

A wedding is about love and commitment. What better way to celebrate your love and the environment than in nature itself? One South African establishment, Monate Game Lodge, offers it all. Located in Modimolle in the Waterberg district of Limpopo, Monate is a 4-star luxury bushveld accommodation, conference and wedding venue where you can truly live out your African dream.

Monate allows couples to fall in love with each other and their surroundings, without the distraction of excess. Whether your wedding is big or small, the team at this 3000 hectare private game reserve will strive to add that personal touch, tailoring each event to every unique pair. Couples can say their ‘I do’s’ underneath their Rock Fig, a majestic Marula tree in a natural cave or in the unique bush boma. If you like traditional, the chapel is at your disposal too.

The main lodge offers 38 spacious and comfortable modern double rooms and two luxury villas. For extra privacy, the exclusive Shingwedzi and Skukuza Lodges offer a deluxe upgrade.

Naturally, a trip to a game reserve is not complete without a game drive! Unwind after your big day with a guided journey through the bushveld area, taking in the sights of buffalo, giraffe, hippopotamus, zebra, a large variety of antelope, and close to 50% of the bird species found in South Africa.

Experience a dream bushveld wedding come true at Monate Game Lodge. A venue where love falls in love again! For their wedding packages, contact 014 718 7000 or [email protected]

Also read: Now trending: Bushveld weddings

Image: supplied

In Advice

Now trending: Bushveld weddings

February 10, 2020 No Comments

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

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

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

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

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

Feature image: supplied

In Destination

The tale of the travelling wedding dress

February 3, 2020 No Comments

Who says you can only wear a wedding dress once? This couple decided to make the bride’s wedding dress worth every cent by taking it along on their travels all over the world. The images they’ve since captured are nothing short of amazing.

Jeff and Jennifer Salvage met online and quickly fell in love. Once engaged, they decided on a destination wedding to Easter Island, and thus needed a wedding dress that could travel in a backpack. Jennifer’s dress, a Maggie Sottero gown, made the long 7 000 mile (11 265km) journey from their home in the United States to Easter Island.

Impressed by how well the dress held up, the pair then decided to take it along with them on their travels. Almost 12 years later, Jeff has taken photos of Jennifer all over the world in her iconic wedding dress.

They’ve been dogsledding in Iceland. Credit: Jeff Salvage, One Woman One Dress.

Hiking in France. Credit: Jeff Salvage, One Woman One Dress.

Horseback riding in the Bahamas – Holland America Cruise. Credit: Jeff Salvage, One Woman One Dress.

ZERO-G Experience® in Florida. Credit: Jeff Salvage, One Woman One Dress.

Thus far, the dress has travelled 308 635 miles (496 594 km) and has been in 50 countries, including Albania, Argentina, Croatia, Germany, New Zealand, Portugal, Russia, Singapore, Trinidad and Tobago and the United States.

The pair typically go on two trips a year, and continue to do so because it keeps them close. “It’s very easy for couples to grow apart,” Jeff told Business Insider. “This is one way we have a common bond and drive.”

To see more images, visit their website: www.onewomanonedress.com

Feature image: Jeff Salvage, One Woman One Dress