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    What’s that epic phrase from Interstellar?

    “Love is the one thing we’re capable of perceiving that transcends dimensions of time and space.”

    One incredible couple is giving a new meaning to this quote, proving that not even war can stop love.

    Anastasia and Anton Sokolov from Ukraine got married in a country that is currently under attack due to the invasion of Russia.

    The video of the couple getting married tugs at the heartstrings and really puts a few things in perspective. The newlyweds said their “I dos” in a subway against a historical building that appears to have been destroyed by the war.


    Also read: A roaring proposal! A lion joined this Cape Town couple’s engagement


    The couple shared this magical moment with civilians and journalists who managed to join in and capture this unusual moment.

    No wedding cake, no A-line fitted wedding dress, and no wedding band – just a simple affair that celebrates love, especially during a time that is filled with so much sadness and destruction.

    The bride wore a cream-like silk dress with a layer of tulle fabric that ensured she looked like a bride – not forgetting the veil! Her beaming face was framed with a gorgeous flower crown that paired perfectly with the bouquet of tulips in her hand.

    The groom looked handsome yet casual. He wore a loose-fitting white shirt and a black jacket and trousers.

    While it may not be the ideal setting or time, this incredible moment showcases that love has no reason, no boundaries and no distance.

    There’s something magical about saying I do under a canopy of indigenous fauna and flora, the burnt-orange sun setting in the background and an endless array of wildlife as bystanders. 

    And there’s certainly nothing more magical than Botswana. 

    Home to the best wilderness and wildlife spots on the African continent, Botswana is a dream for wedding couples looking to tie the knot and immerse themselves in nature. 

    While the Okavango Delta may be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of nature and Southern Africa, it’s the unsurpassed natural beauty of Tuli Private Game Reserve that will truly steal your heart. 

    The destination – Tuli Game Reserve 

    Featuring 72 000 hectares of unadulterated beauty, this privately-owned land in the north-eastern sector of Botswana’s Tuli Block offers a timeless African experience. 

    But this wild stretch of land goes beyond offering picturesque views of rugged landscapes, flowing rivers and a region teeming with wildlife, it also provides one of its shiniest gems – the Africa Experience

    The Africa Experience features excellent wilderness retreats, specialised private African safaris, interactive research participation, and now, a wedding venue. Nestled between the lush greenery of the Tuli and perched on the banks of the Limpopo River, lovebirds have the opportunity to plan a wedding ceremony that they will never forget. 

    Accommodation options come in the form of Koro River Camp, beautifully appointed tented master suites that offer fantastic views, and Koro Island Camp, four simple yet elegant tented en-suites. It’s the perfect spot for newlyweds looking to stay and enjoy the beauty of the region a little longer. 

    The Wedding Experience

    The bridal couple and guests will be treated to a three-day wedding extravagant, in the heart of the bush. Doesn’t get much better than this, right? Wrong!

    Africa Experience offers couples the chance to spend some quality time with loved ones with a fully inclusive three-night stay for a maximum of 30 pax.

    Breakfast, pre-wedding dinner, a spa day for the ladies and a morning walk for the guys are just a few amazing activities you’ll get to indulge in with your guests. The ceremony and reception will take place at the gorgeous River Camp, perfect for those eager to enjoy the sweet sounds of Mother Nature and incredible views over the river. Fall asleep to the wonders of the universe as you top this experience off with an incredible sleep out under the stars!

    Depart with your heart full and stomach full as you enjoy breakfast at the camp. 

    Newlyweds eager to spend a little extra time enjoying this part of the world can stay on for their honeymoon.

    For the ecologically conscious bride and groom, the Africa Experience prides itself in being at the forefront of conservation tourism and this ethos is at the heart of their operations, having established the foundation, TIMBO AFRIKA

    This incredible foundation funds and supports numerous conservation and community projects, including an accredited PhD level field study, which focuses on the ecology of leopards and hyenas of the Tuli.

    What’s more, bridal couples staying at the camps have the opportunity to get their hands dirty by joining in with monitoring activities and field observations – if that’s not an incredible way to spend your honeymoon, then we don’t know what is!

    With conservation and community at the heart of everything they do, there’s no better place to say I do” than at this incredible wedding destination.

    To find out more, head to their website.

    The ultimate showcase of South Africa’s best in the wedding industry is back as a live event.

    The Wedding Expo will be taking place from 6&& August 2022 at the Heartfelt Arena in Centurion, the perfect setting to welcome back the thousands of brides and grooms who want to connect in-person with leading wedding industry professionals. 

    Amanda Cunningham, founder of The Wedding Expo, is proud to announce that Specialised Exhibitions – a division of world-renowned Montgomery Group, will head up this event which promises an exciting and innovative two days. 

    Specialised Exhibitions is a company with over 50 years’ experience and a reputation synonymous with innovation, integrity and professionalism.

    “We engaged, we proposed and we said ‘Yes’ to The Wedding Expo,” says a smiling Charlene Hefer, portfolio director at Specialised Exhibitions. “It’s an exciting opportunity for all of us. With our diverse, dynamic and experienced team, our forward-thinking approach and the integration of latest technologies, we will bring a vibrant energy to the expo in full support of the well-known and successful brand.” 

    “We are really excited about the changes and innovations that will be in place for the expo,” says Hefer. “There will be lots of new features, competitions and promotions in addition to the many informative talks and workshops. An experience shared with loved ones, it will be a super fun two days of fashion, buying and bubbly.” 

    “Globally we are seeing the exhibition and events industry successfully re-open after almost two years of restrictions,” Hefer continues. “Face-to-face interactions have been greatly missed, as they facilitate the building of relationships and trust, enable the engagement of all five senses – to see, hear, taste, touch and smell the products, and also satisfy the gregarious and social nature of people.

    For the many brides, grooms, families and friends who want to meet a host of suppliers to help plan the big day, the wedding expo is the place to be.” 

    Cunningham agrees, “Exhibitors are only too pleased to assist with wedding planning such as giving great advice on venues, catering requirements, flowers and decor, dresses, invitations, honeymoons, legal requirements, and much more! I am constantly astounded at the incredible talent showcased in the South African Bridal Industry.

    This is an entrepreneur driven industry and the service providers are right up there with the best of the best on the international platform. I have loved working with and promoting these incredibly talented individuals and businesses.”  

    Whether you are an entrepreneur in the wedding industry looking for brand exposure, sales leads and the opportunity to network and collaborate with other wedding professionals, or if you are a bride or groom ready to plan your special day, then save the date for The Wedding Expo, 6 & 7 August 2022. 

     Pictures: Supplied / Abbi Cooley Photography 

    While saying “I do” is a magical experience that inherently symbolises love, sometimes bridal couples are looking to step away from tradition and personalise their wedding experience… spice things up, even.

    If you’re looking to put a unique spin on your upcoming wedding ceremony, why not incorporate various rituals from around the world that embody the very meaning of marriage: unity.

    Here are a few traditional and modern rituals that encompass this very word, and provide a foundation for couples looking to incorporate something a bit more unique when it comes to their nuptials.

    Take what resonates and toss what doesn’t, here are six creative wedding rituals that are well about two partners in love:

    Jump the broom

    Jumping the broom has its roots in African American culture, but the meaning behind this ritual is universal. The ritual originated in the early 19th century when slaves were not formally allowed to get married.

    Instead, couples looking to get married would place a broom on the ground and hop over it together. The tradition has now come to mean a “brushing away” of the parts and starting things on a clean slate.

    Releasing butterflies

    contemporary and traditional wedding rituals
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    Is there anything more romantic than rose petals and butterflies? Butterflies often represent change, hope, life and transformation, and there’s nothing more transformational than getting married.

    Releasing butterflies at your wedding ceremony is meant to encompass all of these elements as you start your journey as newlyweds.

    Light a candle

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    This tradition is often associated with the Judeo-Christian faith and is a common practice that’s associated with “two becoming one.”

    During the ceremony, the bride and groom each light a candle and combine their flame to ignite a third and larger one.

    Handfasting

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    This is a beautiful ritual that stems from an ancient Celtic tradition of the same name. Basically, it sees the bride and groom hold opposite hands, ensuring that their arms are tied together lie a figure eight before it is tied together with a ribbon – ultimately symbolising union.

    The fabric is also great to keep and pass down to your children.

    Plant a tree

    contemporary and traditional wedding rituals
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    Watching something grow can be a beautiful experience. Similar to the love that is shared between two partners, the physical symbol of a tree growing from a sapling into a strong tree can represent growth and strength between partners.

    A great way to include this ritual into your ceremony is by having the bridal couple scoop a handful of soil and add it to their planted tree.

    Create a time capsule

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    Time capsules are not just for keeping kids entertained. Add a bunch of meaningful items into a box – items that are specific to you and your spouse – and nail it shut together.

    This new and different ritual is all about doing something together. You can open this in the next 10 years or on your one year anniversary.

    Picture: Laurken Kendall

    There’s something magical about summer weddings! The good weather and bounty of fresh flowers may have something to do with it. 

    Summertime offers plenty of delectable fresh blooms to choose from, no matter your ideal bouquet – classic or over-the-top – the season offers a variety of colours and textures that are perfect for your wedding ceremony. 

    Here are 7 of our favourite summer wedding bouquets.

    Vibrant peonies

    Picture: Amber Gress

    Keep it classic with white roses

    Picture: Pinterest

    Step outside the box with bougainvillea

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    A pop of colour

    Picture: Phil Chester

    Match with white

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    An array of colourful wildflowers

    Picture: Pinterest

    Orchids
    Picture: Jenny Quicksall

    The King of the Protea

    Picture: Katie Ruther

    A wedding is a time-honoured occasion featuring unique traditions that have been around for decades and even centuries. One such tradition is the bridal veil.

    Brides have worn veils for a number of symbolic and religious reasons. From warding off evil spirits in ancient Greece to displaying a woman’s virtue in Christianity, the veil has become a traditional wedding garment over the centuries.

    However, in today’s world, wearing a veil is entirely optional. If you do decide to wear one and have a flair for the dramatic, why not go for a bold veil? Deck out your veil in pearls, crystals, lace, flowers, and more to give it a unique edge. Go long and voluminous for extra oomph.

    If you need some inspiration, look no further. Here are some fantastic veils you’ll fall in love with:

     

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    Picture: Pinterest

    The behind-the-scenes of your big day is often the least prioritised but is something that deserves just as much attention. After all, it not only sets the tone for the rest of the day but the time you spend with your bridal party will be seared into your mind forever – no pressure. With a glass of bubbly in hand, it’s the perfect time to have a few laughs, shake off the nerves and connect with your bridal crew.

    So, why not do it will donning a few silky robes. Getting robes for your bridal party may not be a requirement, but the addition can sprinkle a little magic onto your day and be an amazing little memento for them to keep close to them.

    Here are a few photo-worthy robes to inspire you:

    Dial it all the way to sexy

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    Zhuzh it up with some feathers

    Daughters of Simone

    Who doesn’t love a good fringe? 

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    A little jungle fever

    Bespoke Kimonos

    Floral prints forever! 

    Etsy

    An elegant train that highlights your bridal beauty

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    Picture: Pinterest

    No matter the season, you want members of your bridal party to feel elegant and stylish. Unless you have an unwavering vision for your bridesmaids, it’s quite easy to be swayed by the plethora of wedding trends out there. 

    Between wrap dresses, bold prints and jumpsuits were helping you sift through the trends and providing you with killer ensembles that your bridesmaids will love wearing.

    The elegant slip dress

    Rust and champagne colours are all the rage right now and tying this phenomenal colour in with an elegant slip dress design will leave your bridesmaids feeling chic.

    Wowing with bold prints

    Adding bold prints to any dress, no matter the occasion can be a great way to elevate things. Whether it is summer or springtime, this floral design contrasted with navy hues is bound to make a statement.

    Wrap dress for the win

    We love a gorgeous wrap dress. Not only are these trendy designs comfortable, but they can be as chic as you would like. Add a few patterns or make it pop with a gorgeous colour like emerald green and you have a winner.

    Jumping for joy

    Jumpsuits don’t have to be the only thing on the bridal menu. Jumpsuits are uber comfortable and can add a little twist to your wedding party, the colour is also to die for!

     

    Who says chiffon is outdated? This fabric is an extremely popular and versatile choice and can be incredibly affordable for bridal couples on a budget. There are so many possibilities that come with choosing this fabric, but make it’s always important to make it your own.

    A sea of velvet dreams

    When you think of bridesmaids dresses, velvet may not be the first thing that comes to mind. This fabric can be quite a departure from traditional fabrics such as chiffon, but it offers a unique look for brides looking to take the road less travelled. It will also leave your bridal babes feeling stylish and oh-so fierce.

    Pictures: Pinterest | Show me your Mumu

    There’s a new wedding destination for Gauteng brides and grooms to add to their wedding venue list. Emerald Resort & Casino are upping the ante by ensuring that you have the perfect wedding venue and allowing you to bring your Big Day to life.

    “Emerald is the ultimate destination where the vision of your dream wedding will be brought to life.  We can customize your wedding with the traditions of your heritage and cater for a small intimate affair or create your fairy-tale wedding of up to1500 guests, all without leaving our complex. We are only 45 min from Johannesburg International Airport, on a private estate on the lush banks of the Vaal River”, says Tanuja Gangabishun, Marketing Executive at Emerald Resort and Casino. 

    A 3 000 square meter Arena at Emerald offers the bridal couples a unique opportunity to host large weddings using round tables, while Kilimanjaro has a warm ambience for groups of up to 160 guests.

    The Game Park Lapa is captivating and offers a gorgeous outdoor option, weather permitting. The other enchanting venue for an outdoor wedding is the Outdoor Chapel which can be set up in many different ways, catering for small or large groups. 

    The venues are versatile and the setting offers beautiful locations for dramatic and spectacular photographs right there on complex.  Booking this premiere wedding destination means that the wedding party can enjoy all the before and after events on one complex.  There is no need to travel to enjoy a bachelor party of bridal shower, or entertain the guests.  The complex offers a wide variety of venues and entertainment. 

    Complementing the selection of venues, Emerald offers several accommodation options to suit every taste and every budget, from 3-star, 4-star and 5-star offerings. There are a wide variety of activities available on the complex to keep everyone entertained while the bride is pampered and treated like the queen she is. 

    Enjoy game drives, visit the Aquadome with its heated pools, or take a relaxing river cruise.  The bride can even plan a magical floating wedding on the Vaal River with Emerald Resort and Casino. 

    “Weddings can be very complex and stressful for the happy couple, which is why we have put together several packages with a specialist in the industry, Farzana Mayet rom Panache International. It is a rare opportunity to be able to work with a professional like Farzana,” says Tanuja Gangabishun, Marketing Executive at Emerald Resort and Casino. 

    Tailor-made packages are available which can include arrangements for the bridal shower and bachelor party at Emerald, Mehndi night function, and the wedding day with an array of Halaal food and catering, entertainment, photographer and videographer etc.  

    Optional extras such as a Mehndi artist, Qawali singer, and make-up artist and wedding cakes can also be included.  

    Allow the team to tailor a wedding experience to meet your requirements. 

    Contact Farzana on 072 174 0896 or email [email protected] 

    Picture/s: Emerald Resort & Casino

    If you’re busy planning your wedding, there are probably a million things you’ve managed to scribble down on your to-do list. Nestled between dress fittings and chats with vendors is probably choosing the perfect colour palette for your wedding. 

    Now, we’re sure that we don’t have to tell you how important choosing colours for your big day can be. After all, it’s right at the top of your list. The colour palette of your choice will influence every aspect of your day – from the decor to the cake. 

    Of course, this can feel incredibly overwhelming. Thankfully, the experts are providing us with some direction. Here are a few of the most popping colours for 2022: 

    “Very Peri” 

    It’s only fitting that we start with Pantone’s Colour of the Year – Very Peri. A beautiful combination of blues and purples that offer a romantic and vibrant tone to your wedding celebration. This colour packs a punch and works well when paired with pink, vibrant purples, or even classic black. 

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    Stay in neutral 

    While sticking to neutral colours such as creams and whites may seem like the safe bet, experts say this is quite popular right now. However, opting for texture and adding floral to add a little pop can be a great way to take things to the next level. 

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    Terracotta & Rust 

    This beautiful warm hue has been everywhere in 2021, and trust us, it’s not going anywhere. These colours are borrowed from Mother Nature and offer earthy tones that are perfect for any wedding – no matter the season. 

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    Stay Bold 

    Not every wedding couple likes to play it safe. Bold and vibrant colours such as deep purples and blues can feel like a massive departure from the traditional blush pinks or all-white decor, but this can be an amazing way to make a splash on your wedding day. If you’re feeling a little anxious about it, why not pair it with a tone that you feel a bit more comfortable with. 

    Pinterest

    A sea of grass and sage

    A breath of fresh air. These are the perfect tones for wedding couples looking to add a soft and relaxing feel to their decor. Deeper greens and blues work well with these colours, as well as gold.

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    Picture: Pinterest