Category

Weddings

Category

Who doesn’t love a little bit of sparkle? From your wedding dress to your decor, your big day can shine away. But what about your wedding cake?

Edible sequins have been trending in the cake industry for a while now. Typically made from powdered gelatin and water, edible sequins add that extra touch to an already glamorous affair.

For some etxra glitz and glam, feast on one of these fancy cakes.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B9UoslWl96z/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B9y43CNpqxS/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B9OTQoAn2qc/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B9b4n4hpTlF/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B9t4uDLAWdQ/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B9zfLKCgpp_/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B9gY2xshEbI/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B8w0Y-QFtW8/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B7BhBw_ADir/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B7D8wTjgEdw/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Feature image: Pixabay

Desperate times call for desperate measures. As the COVID-19 outbreak is wreaking havoc worldwide, even the rich and famous are not above the pandemic and some couples with upcoming weddings had to move out their dates.

Emma Stone and Dave McCary

Oscar-winning actress Emma Stone and partner Dave McCary, who were supposed to tie the knot this past weekend, have postponed their wedding. They have not announced a new date yet, according to Fox News.

Also read: Emma Stone and Dave McCary’s sweet proposal story

Katy Perry and Orlando Bloom

Power couple Katy Perry and  Orlando Bloom, who are expecting their first child together, were also planning on getting hitched soon. The pair has now postponed their Japan wedding until it would be safe to reschedule, according to Metro UK. 

Also read: Katy Perry shares never-before-seen engagement photos

Princess Beatrice and Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi

Finally, in what seems like a wedding overshadowed by bad luck, Princess Beatrice and Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi’s royal nuptials at Buckingham Palace have been called off,a ccoridng to Sky News. The wedding reception was supposed to take place on 29 May in the Buckingham Palace Gardens. A  Buckingham Palace spokeswoman said to Sky News that Beatrice and her fiancé are thinking about a private marriage. The pair are taking government advice into consideration before making a decision.

Somizi Mhlongo and Mohale Motaung

Our very own Somizi Mhlongo and Mohale Motaung had to postpone their third wedding which was meant to take place in Italy this year.

On Instagram, the Idols judge wrote, “We have decided to cancel our wedding in Italy due to the Corona virus epidemic……. however we gonna look for another destination but the dress code will include @louisvuitton masks……just like the red bottoms were compulsory at our white wedding so is the LV mask”.

Taraji P Henson and Kelvin Hayden 

Award-winning actress Taraji P Henson and her fiancé, former NFL player, Kelvin Hayden postponed their April 4 nuptials on account of the social distancing encouraged by the World Health Organisation. The wedding will now take place in July this year.

“It’s probably going to be more like July. We have to see what this will be like at the other end,” said Henson to Access Hollywood.

Image: Twitter/WooPink

In light of the COVID-19 pandemic affecting people throughout the world, the South African government is taking a number of steps to flatten the curve.

Gatherings of more than 100 people have been prohibited in the country. To make sure this rule is enforced, those in the Gauteng province wanting to host large events such as weddings and funerals must now apply for a permit to do so.

Gauteng Premier David Makhura made the announcement during a media briefing in Gauteng on Wednesday, March 18. According to Makhura, Gauteng is a high-risk province as it is densely populated and has the most developed transport system used by many.

“We want to call on business to cooperate, including township establishments. Everyone who is applying for a funeral or for a wedding needs to do so at the nearest police station in your area,” said the Premier. ” The police stations are helping us to monitor to ensure that the size of those events complies with the law. So, there’s a specific provincial police officer who is designated on behalf of the provincial commissioner coordinating all those applications so that there is full compliance.”

As of now, South Africa has 116 confirmed cases of COVID-19 and no reported deaths thus far.

Feature image: Unsplash

Shapewear dates back thousands of years. The ancient Minoans wore these garments to push up their bare chests, while the ancient Mesopotamians wore them to promote fertility.

Through history, the use of shapewear has changed. Mostly, however, they have been used by women to manipulate the shape of their bodies in order to fit fashion trends. Today, shapewear feels less forced on women, but it still exists, though women often wear it as support rather than to “slim down”.

Whether you want it for its contouring benefits, or just to ensure that your dress falls smoothly, there are a few things you need to know about shapewear.

– Some fabrics require shapewear more than others 

Light fabrics such as silk show every little detail under your dress. You know what that means, right? The dreaded panty line. If your dress is a lighter fabric, shapewear will definitely come in handy.

– Built-in shapewear has limits 

Built in shapewear supports the dress, while other shape wear supports your body. Of the two options, the latter will benefit you more, because if your body is well supported the dress will look great no matter what.

– Buy it after your first fitting 

After your first wedding dress fitting, you’ll know what the shape, style, and fabric that is necessary for your bridal shapewear. These are important things to consider! You can then take the shapewear along to the next fitting, to ensure that everything works out as planned.

– If you can, go for seamless

Seamless means no lines under your wedding dress. Who doesn’t want to look smooth and sleek on their special day?

– Which shapewear for which dress? 

If your dress is form-fitting, go for high-waist compression shapewear. Boy shorts are also a good option.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B6_2VoBlXhX/

  • If your dress is tighter around the upper body, light weight shapewear is best. A body suit is the top choice for this style of dress.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B8PuF9DnCZt/

 

Image: Instagram / shapewearusa 

You know what they say: Life is better in colour. If you’re not shy of a few vivid hues, why not incorporate them into your big day?

Using bright colours adds a vibrant, happy feel to your wedding decor, and you’re guests are sure to be feeling it too. Too much colour, however, can feel a bit childish, so be careful with the combinations you choose. Consider using various shades of reds and pinks, or complimentary tones like yellow and navy.

Here are some ideas to inspire you:

https://www.instagram.com/p/BEZrNr4B079/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B5YqB_5A6wg/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B6OD2AFncrh/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B9nEguDhgiA/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B9uicXfhSRq/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B9rQ3ElBkQg/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B9mn1Dspjmq/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B9i38tCgFsf/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B9XxI5CDrfF/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B89smzfhC5w/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Feature image: Unsplash

When it comes to wedding dresses there are a lot of decisions to make. What style, which neckline, what fabric, and the list goes on. These decisions become even more complicated if you don’t understand the jargon being thrown at you by store consultants.

To help you through this process of decision making, here is a list of necklines, so you don’t misunderstand what’s being said and end up with something you don’t want.

Here is a helpful chart to begin with: 

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bkhq6YUnPZx/

Now let’s move on to some more detailed descriptions:

– Sweetheart 

Soft and feminine, the sweetheart neckline resembles the upper half of a heart. It follows the natural curves of the bust, and slightly dips in the centre.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B9k0ycIlmmB/

Bateau or Sabrina 

Recognised by its similarity to the shape of a boat, the bateau neckline has a slightly softened straight cut that extends from one collarbone to the other. It has a wide opening at the neck.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B2heDCdjYDt/

– Halter Neck

The halter neck can be high or low cut, depending on what the bride prefers. Straps go around the neck and close at the back behind the neck, usually with buttons or fabric.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B6tDzEyJWch/

– Queen Anne

The Queen Anne neckline is high at the back and lower in the front. Looking at the dress directly from the front you’ll see a partially open neck with cleavage and collar bones covered and it may appear as though the dress has a collar at the back.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B4siSuFj3JB/

– V-neck 

A versatile style, the v-neck is exactly as it’s name suggests. The neckline forms a v shape and culminates in a pointed dip in the centre of the chest.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BuG_7YvB3zE/

– Jewel 

This neckline is similar to that of a normal t-shirt. It is a very high-cut scoop neckline, that covers up the upper torso, shoulders and collar bones. Often, if a dress has a jewel neckline, it will be made sleeveless.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B4k1kl-HIbI/

– Cowl 

With draped fabric that hangs loosely around the neck, the cowl neckline instantly draws attention to the décolletage area.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BxvM-bGgoUU/

– Square

As the its name suggests, the neckline is square. The neckline and straps meet at right angles, and it’s depth can vary as the bride pleases.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B7Yhz_rBqi2/

– Illusion 

This one seems to be universally loved. Featuring lace or sheer fabric that covers the bodice and continues upwards to form a higher, second neckline, the illusion neckline is a classic. The sheer layer creates a stunning contrast with the other fabric and looks ethereal in it’s finish.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B7pDsDlIPXn/

– Single shoulder 

Also known as the asymmetrical neckline, this one drapes towards one shoulder and leaves the other exposed.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B3oImNyBMdA/

– Off-the-shoulder 

Characterised by absence of sleeves around the shoulder, this style is quite popular. The neckline begins lower than the shoulder, and extends in a line, across the chest.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BykXurADZoV/

– Scoop 

Very simply the scoop neckline is any neckline that forms the shape of a U or is round.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bq3SIy6gs6Y/

Image: Unsplash 

On Saturday, March 14, over 140 LGBTQ couples tied the knot in a mass wedding at a central plaza in Mexico City. The ceremony was organised through a Mexico City government campaign – whose aim is to eradicate discrimination against the community – called Rainbow Caravan.

This event was held as a celebration and commemoration of the 10 year anniversary of legalisation of LGBTQIA+ marriages in Mexico City. The General Directorate of the Civil Regsitry of Mexico City called for a day of equal marriages and gender identity change in 2020, on March 14. Everything was free of charge for those participating.

Since LGBTQIA+ marriages were legalised in 2010, around 13 000 same-sex couples have tied the knot in Mexico City.

Ana Scarlett Vargas, a transgender woman, married her now-husband at this mass ceremony. Hector Aaron Roman, Vargas’ husband, said that as soon as Vargas got word of the mass wedding, she proposed. Of course, Roman accepted just as quickly.

“I am now 36 years old, and my dreams have finally come true,” said Vargas to NBC News. After the ceremony she said, “I’ve been given a second chance at life with someone who loves me for all my defects and virtues.”

Kenya Cuevas, an activist for the rights of transgender women, recently opened a community centre to support transgender women. She said that these are the gains they have worked toward for many years. “We deserve this celebration for all the happiness that we have lacked in all these decades,” said Cuevas to NBC News.

Fernanda Delgada, founder of the organisation called Transformado Vidas (Transforming lives) helped 11 people –  who live in other states where there are no equal marriages – travel to Mexico City for the mass wedding.

After the ceremony, all participants toasted in celebration.

Congrats to Vargas and Roman and all the other happy couples!

Image: Twitter / @crewislife 

After the COVID-19 pandemic cancelled cruises and honeymoons worldwide, this couple wouldn’t let it stop their fun. While still exercising responsible self-quarantine, they decided to ‘seas’ the day and throw their own cruise from the comfort of their home.

To celebrate their 53rd wedding anniversary, Norma and Dave Trill, both 74, from Melbourne had planned a 10-day cruise. However, as the coronavirus continued to spread, their trip was cancelled.

Despite this, however, the couple decided to go ahead with their cruise, albeit from indoors. In a video shared online, the couple can be seen with their feet up in front of their TV, where a video of the ocean is playing. The pair clink their glasses of wine to the good life.

Take a look at their ‘cruise’ below:

Feature image: screenshot from video

The day you get married is one of the biggest events of your life. A lot of planning goes into your big day, and you might start to feel a little overwhelmed in the days leading up to your wedding. It’s important to give yourself time to wrap your head around all the changes being married will bring to your life, as well as prepare for the practical things that need to happen on the day.

It might be a smart move to actively take steps to mentally prepare yourself for your wedding to make sure you are the calm, radiant bride you want to be on your dream day. Here are five ways to get yourself in the right frame of mind:

Expect to feel emotional

Unless you are the Ice Princess, you will experience strong emotions. You are taking a huge step! If you know to expect it, you will feel more in control. Remind yourself why you are doing this, how much you love your partner and how excited you are to get married. Other factors might come into play, like close family that can’t be there, which can also turn on the waterworks. Don’t be too hard on yourself. Emotions are healthy and as long as you know it’s normal, you can instead choose to be grateful for the joy and happiness coming your way.

Things will go wrong

Without trying to sound like doomsday prophets, we can almost certainly guarantee some things will go wrong. It’s Murphy’s Law, and no one is above it. However, that doesn’t mean your day is ruined. There is always a plan to be made! Trust your bridesmaids to get creative, and try not to worry too much over things you can’t change, like the weather.

Your partner is nervous too

Believe it or not, your partner probably feels just as nervous as you. Try to be encouraging and supportive. After all, you’re in this together! A sweet note before the ceremony or a tight hug when you see them at the altar will help reaffirm them. Focusing on your loved one will also help to forget your own nerves.

Double check the arrangements 

To help put your mind at ease, try to double check all the arrangements at least two or three days before the wedding. If you have a wedding planner, check in with them, and then leave the rest up to them. If you planned the wedding yourself, go over everything with your maid of honour/mother/mother-in-law so you have someone else’s input and guidance and to make sure they know what needs to fall in place. This is not the time to “play it by ear”.

Your bridesmaids are only doing their best

The last important thing to keep in mind is that everyone is there to help you make your dream come true. They are all doing the best they can and they are only human. Turning into ‘Bridezilla’ will just make them nervous too and will keep everyone from enjoying the special event. Rather let them know how much you appreciate all their hard work, support and help!

Also read: How to keep calm on your wedding day

Image: Pixabay

Wedding gifts are the perfect way to help your newlyweds start their lives together on a strong note. If you’re stuck in a gifting rut, rest assured your newlyweds will love these easy gifts.

Quality pots and pans:

Your newlyweds will most likely be doing a lot of cooking together, so its important they have quality pots and pans that will last for a long time. If you’re willing to splash out, this is one gift they will absolutely love.

We love: Artisanal Ceramic Non Stick Pan 24cm from Woolworths – R450

Crockery and glassware:

People gotta eat and drink, right? They might as well do it in style. Depending on the couple’s taste, you can go with wine glasses, gin glasses, whiskey glasses or just good old tumblers for the teetotallers.

We love: Crystal Red Wine Glasses 4 Piece from Woolworths – R260

Home decor:

Now this is a tricky one. Only opt for purchasing furniture or home decor for a couple if you are familiar with their taste and style. You wouldn’t want to gift them with a colourful nick-nack only to discover they prefer the minimalist aesthetic.

We love: Marble bookends from @Home – R599

Linens:

Half the battle of a cosy sleep is quality linens. Give your newlyweds the gift of a good rest with a set of comfy linens that will make them never want to leave the bed.

We love: Egyptian cotton oxford satin duvet cover set from Superbalist – R1199

Kitchen appliances

Add some flair to their mornings with fun kitchen appliances. Whether they love coffee or sweet treats, there are a multitude of applicances that will fulfill their desires.

We love: KitchenCraft Stove Top Waffle Maker from Yuppiechef – R769

Money:

Weddings are expensive, and your newlyweds will most likely struggle with empty pockets after their big day. Help them out by gifting them with some money instead of a physical present. Not sure how much to give? We’ve got you covered.

Image: Pexels