Can’t decide on a shoe for your big day? We have some tips to help you choose the perfect pair of shoes for your wedding that will make the decision that much easier.

1. TAKE YOUR DRESS INTO CONSIDERATION

Stumbled upon your dream wedding shoes but haven’t bought your dress yet? We recommend wait a little before snatching them up because you want your shoes to complement the dress. If the length of your dress is shorter, then your shoes need to make a statement – go for a pop of colour or a shoe with some glitz and glam. If your dress length is on the longer side wear shoes that are comfortable and simple.

2. KNOW YOUR VENUE

Much like checking the weather before you step outside in the correct pair, the venue you’re having your wedding at should influence the type of heel and heel height you wear. Trust us, you don’t want to find yourself wearing pencil-thin stilettos anywhere near grass, rough paving or lots of stairs.

4. COMFORT FIRST

Always prioritise comfort. Always. If your shoes are hurting you and all you can think about is taking them off, then is having them really worth it? Go for a lower heel or a block heel so there’s less pressure on the balls of your feet. Choosing this option also means you will be able to stand a lot longer and be able to dance the night away with ease! And if you really must have that dream pair, shop a fancy pair of flats as well, in case you need backup halfway through the event.

4. THE REAL TEST COMES AFTER YOU BUY THEM

If your shoes can be returned, a good way to test whether they’re a good fit is to wear them – standing – for at least an hour (indoors, ideally on a clean surface). Take them grocery shopping or cook your dinner in them one night. If you find it too difficult, they may not be the shoes for you.

Incorporating Mzansi flavour into your wedding is a lovely way to pay homage to your country or family. Whatever your heritage, here are some of the best ways to stay proudly South African on your big day.

1. A SENSE OF CEREMONY

Are there poems, quotes or vows that are particular to your heritage or culture? Incorporate them into your ceremony and make sure to emphasise them in your programme. You could even elaborate on the origin and history of the words you include or ask whoever is marrying you to add these anecdotes as well.

2. YOUR ATTIRE

Is there a specific colour or print that has meaning in your family? Try and include it in a subtle way, for example, maybe a hairpin, brooch, pocket square or even a pair of shoes in a colour or pattern that represents your particular heritage.

3. THE FOOD

How about serving welcome drinks infused with flavours of well-known South African herbs and plants? Think buchu gin, geranium cordial, rooibos iced tea … the options are endless. And when it comes to food, traditional doesn’t have to mean boring. There are many ways you can transform much-loved homestyle dishes – from bredie to braai – into appetising, intricate canapés and sophisticated mains.

4. FLOWERS & DECOR

South Africa is blessed with an abundance of unique, exquisite flora. Instead of trying to get hold of exotic plants and flowers, try using indigenous, seasonal ones that are found in your hometown. Proteas, strelitzias and succulents can look striking paired with simple greenery, and will be a much more cost-effective option too! Consider texture as well: wooden, woven or African-print table runners and underplates work well when combined with minimalist elements.

5. THE MUSIC

A wedding playlist is very personal and should include songs from some of your favourite moments together. Add a little twist by including a traditional song somewhere in the playlist – whether it be during your first dance or when people are grooving on the dance floor later.