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    In News

    Impromptu cruise ship wedding amid coronavirus fears

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    This San Antonio couple found out that even the best laid plans often go awry. While on a cruise ship, their plans to marry on the Jamaican shore were ruined when their ship was unable to dock. Luckily for them, the cruise liner decided to throw them a surprise wedding.

    San Antonio couple Liza Garcia and Theodore Herrera discovered that their wedding plans were unable to go through as a result of coronavirus fears. Jamaican officials are currently reviewing their policies amid the coronavirus outbreak, meaning that the cruise ship was unable to dock on their shores. Their plan of a Jamaican wedding dashed, Carnival Cruise Line decided to throw the couple an impromptu wedding aboard the ship, with Captain Francesco La Farina presiding over the ceremony.

    “All of us on board were heartbroken when we learned that Liza and Theodore weren’t able to go ashore for their wedding. We got together as a team and promised to deliver the dream wedding that they deserve,” said Nikhil Khanna, hotel director on the Carnival Freedom. “At Carnival, we want to make sure our guests are provided the vacation of a lifetime and when these types of unforeseen circumstances come up, we take great pride in creating these surprises and delightful moments that our guests will remember forever.”

    The bride was given complimentary spa and makeup appointments to prepare her for the big day. After the nuptials, the crew treated the guests and newlyweds to a buffet, three-tiered wedding cake, an ice-sculpture and a DJ.

    Credit: Carnival Cruise Line
    Credit: Carnival Cruise Line
    Credit: Carnival Cruise Line

    As if throwing them a wedding free of charge wasn’t enough, Carnival Cruise Line also reimbursed the couple for the funds for their cancelled wedding.

    Congrats to the happy couple!

    Feature image: Carnival Cruise Line

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    In Decor

    Adorable wedding signs your guests will love

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    Add a sweet message to your wedding with a simple sign to greet your guests.Whether its reminding your guests about your unplugged wedding or just reinforcing your love, signs are a sweet way to add a personal touch to your big day. Bonus: these signs are easy to DIY!

    Take inspiration from these messages.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B628tJEjOTO/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B8DU9n0KNXn/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B9gl7DjhZt3/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B9e_TYxhahQ/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B9eNWSFhO8v/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B9b6BBpB9Dd/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B9YeEA-hgeQ/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B9SazPEBZdZ/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B9RwMHEHeiG/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B0qSibhD46A/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Feature image: Pexels

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    In Engagements

    Six of the best wedding reality shows

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    While they may not always end in Happily Ever After, these wedding reality shows are guaranteed to keep you entertained in the run up to your big day. They might also make you feel happier about your own wedding plans when you see what a disaster these can be by comparison.

    Here are the best wedding reality TV shows we love to watch:

    – Love is Blind 

     

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    The recently released Netflix series follows a few single people as they enter the ‘experiment.’ In 10 days, they date a host of people from within ‘pods’ that only let them hear each others voices. By the end of the 10 days, six couples came out engaged without ever having seen each other. This might seem wild enough on it’s own but the series goes even further. The couples then move in together and meet each others families before walking down the aisle to be asked whether “love is truly blind” and they commit to the partner they have known for about a month. As expected, the drama is high as the couples find out who the other person really is.

    -Married at First Sight 

     

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    Married at First Sight has been around since 2014 and is still going strong on TLC. The premise of the show is that couples are chosen and paired up and meet for the first time at the end of the aisle. After getting married, the couple are filmed settling into their new life and after six to eight weeks, they decide whether to stay married or get divorced. Despite being criticised for being a westernised version of arranged marriage for entertainment purposes, it is addictive and keeps you hooked trying to guess who will make it.

    – The Wedding Bashers 

     

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    Wedding Bashers combines the voting fun of Idols with the high stakes pressure of a wedding. Four wedding experts go to different couples weddings and judge them on the entire event. They vote on the weddings, with their vote counting 50% with the South African audience voting from home. If you’re in the middle of planning your wedding, rewatching the first two seasons might be a great way to pick up some ideas, or realise what not to do.

    -Our Perfect Wedding 

     

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    Another South African wedding show, Our Perfect Wedding airs on Mzansi Magic and follows a couple planning their  “perfect wedding” as they check off the items on their wish list. It’s a simple show that follows all the drama going into planning a wedding, with the couple declaring at the end whether or not their wedding was truly perfect. On top of being entertaining, watching other couples go through the entire wedding process might help you realise that your wedding will always have some stumbling blocks but in the end can still be perfect.

    -Extreme Engagement

     

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    A post shared by Extreme Engagement | Netflix (@extremeengagement) on

    Unlike the others, this show doesn’t hop straight into marriage. An engaged couple travels the world to experience marriage customs from a variety of cultures. The main goal is to see whether these extremely differing styles of marriage will bring out the best or the worst in their relationship. While it has been criticised for its problematic depictions of other cultures, it is interesting to witness the ways marriage is different all over the world. It might just give you a little time to think what marriage means for you.

    – Kom ons trou, nou! (Let’s get married, now!) 

     

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    Although it’s in Afrikaans, this show has subtitles so you can follow on this wild ride. In every episode, a woman who is tired of waiting for her partner to propose secretly plans their wedding and then proposes to them in front of all their surprised guests. There really isn’t much to learn from this series, since you’ve already got the proposal and are planning the wedding but it’s pure reality TV entertainment.

    Feature image: Instagram / Love is Blind

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    In Gifts

    Ten great gift ideas to give your groom

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    The groom’s big day is on its way and you’re wondering what to get him as a gift. It’s a memorable occasion, so you want the gift to be fitting but you can’t seem to come up with a good idea.

    Well, there’s no need to rack your brain any longer, we’re here to help. Here are some ideas to inspire a great gift for the groom:

    – Beer gift set 

    A simple, but great gift.

    R199 at YuppieChef 

    Credit: YuppieChef

    – Personalised Cufflinks 

    A pair of cufflinks is a great gift for men, but a pair of personalised cufflinks should make it even more special, and shows more of your effort.

    R544.73 at Get Name Necklance 

    Credit: getnamenecklace.com

    – Novelty Decanter 

    A decoration for his at-home desk, and a useful gift at the same time.

    R321.61 at Banggood 

    Credit: banggood.com

    – Grooming Set 

    Men want to look and feel their best too! Gift him with a grooming set to ensure his morning routine leaves him feeling fresh and ready to take on the day.

    R395 at Faithful to Nature 

    Credit: Faithful to Nature

    – Framed custom star map poster 

    If you’re looking for a sentimental gift, this one is perfect. Get a custom map that shows the stars in the sky on the day you met, the day of your first kiss, or the day he proposed.

    R484 at manicaa 

    Credit: manicaa.com

    – Watch 

    A watch is an essential part of the wardrobe, and for men a fancy watch really brings an outfit together for those days that call for formal attire. Ensure he’s looking his best by gifting him with a watch that’s just his style.

    R2499 at Superbalist 

    Credit: Superbalist

    – Duffle Bag

    For travelling, the gym and much more, this gift will definitely be put to good use.

    R2199 at Old Khaki 

    Credt: Old Khaki

    – Cologne gift set 

    He can never have too much cologne, and we all know a man who smells great is that much more attractive.

    R681 at Superbalist 

    Credit: Superbalist

    – Personalised Apron 

    For the man who loves to cook, ensure he’s doing it in style. Gift him with a personalised apron to wear as he cooks you all those romantic meals.

    R299.95 at Net Florist 

    Credit: Net Florist

    – Homemade Gin Kit 

    For those who love DIY, and those who are gin enthusiasts, this one is perfect.

    R519 at YuppieChef 

    Credit: YuppieChef

    Image: Pexels 

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    In Advice

    Pear-fectly pretty wedding cakes decorated with fruit

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    Who doesn’t love a good piece of fruit? Whether is sweet or sour, fruit often reminds us of a warm Summer’s day. Another bonus: fruits make the perfect cake decorations!

    If you’re having a summer wedding, why not lean into it with an adorable fruit-decorated wedding cake? It’s on trend, adds great flavour and is pretty to look at. Make sure to do your research and chose in-season fruits to adorn your sweet treats.

    Here are some ideas to inspire you:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/ByI0GEWDowb/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B3qR-M-HTcA/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

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    https://www.instagram.com/p/B4AUchnplDR/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B1uYTo4jOE8/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BzYV4rWFXFy/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

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

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    https://www.instagram.com/p/Bch697WHY53/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BLq87oCgzKh/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Feature image: Unsplash

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    In Celebs

    Somhale cancel third wedding amid coronavirus

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    Following the widespread outbreak of coronavirus, South Africa’s favourite couple Somizi and Mohale have cancelled their third wedding, due to take place in Italy this year.

    The pandemic is affecting 90 countries and territories around the world. There have been 98,441 reported cases and 3,387 deaths worldwide. In Italy alone, there have been 3 089 confirmed cases of Covid-19 infection and nearly 148 fatalities.

    As a result of the health concern, Somizi and Mohale have decided to cancel their third wedding. The Idols judge took to social media to make the brief announcement.

    On Instagram, he 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”

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B9YmUyTBkrp/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Feature image: Instagram / Mohale

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    In Fashion

    Dresses we love: bow-detail

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    Who doesn’t love a statement piece? Get creative and add a dash of whimsy to your bridal look with a beautiful bow.

    Feminine detail like bows, lace trims and delicate tulle are classic additions to your dream dress. Whether your dress is modern or boho, a bow will perfectly compliment the final finish. Use them to adorn your shoulders, your sleeves, your bust, or your back.

    Here are some dresses to inspire you:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B8eFbfMIFnb/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BUmS9UHALYc/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B9D9scxJgzF/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B7EQNephCkk/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B6a7xnHFex-/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B3M8heCjmzI/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

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    https://www.instagram.com/p/B7iLL_7Ar6c/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Feature image: Unsplash

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    In Advice

    Where to register for wedding gifts in South Africa

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    Although you may hope that those people attending your wedding would know you well enough to get a gift you’ll like, its better not to risk it. Your best bet at getting great gifts that you need (and actually want) is to opt for a registry.

    For those of you who are registry first-timers, as most people are, there’s nothing to be intimidated by. South Africa has some great options for wedding registries, and most are user friendly too.

    Here are some you may want to consider, to get the best gifts for you:

    – BANKS  Kitchen Boutique 

    BANKS was established in 1939 in District Six, Cape Town. It was started by Avraham Bank and his son Abba Bank. Today, the store has one of the widest ranges of kitchen appliances, stylish pots and pans, crockery, cutlery, glassware and more. If you’re a couple that loves cooking up a storm, this is the one for you!

    Their registry process is quick and simple too. All you need to do is create an account, add the gifts you’d like to your registry and you’re good to go. For those buying you gifts, BANKS is convenient as they have the option of buying online or in store and they offer delivery as well!

    If that wasn’t enough, BANKS also allows you to have a change of heart. If you’ve registered for and received a gift, but no longer want that item, you’re allowed to exchange it if you so please.

    – Wrapistry 

    Wrapistry carries a variety of brands including Carrol Boyes, Sorbet, Le Crueset, Smeg and many more. If you’re looking for something brand specific, check here first.

    – Yuppiechef

    Stocking over 8 600 products from 700 of the world’s leading brand, you’re sure to find exactly what you’re looking for.

    – Gift Tree

    This online gift store is a one-stop-shop for handpicked gifts. They carry both leading brands and unique designer pieces,  and you can shop from the comfort of your own home.

    – Mr Price Home 

    For homeware at affordable prices, this one is for you. Offering decor, kitchen appliances, and items for your bedroom, bathroom and living room, you can’t go wrong with Mr Price Home. It’s a store that everyone is familiar with too!

    – Bespoke 

    Founded in 2012, Bespoke is known for its distinctive finds and accessible luxury. This store carries a curated collection of home decor items and is perfect for those who prefer unique, hand-picked items.

    – @home 

    @home is a popular homeware store in South Africa, and their outlets can be found all across the country. You can set your registry up online and it can be managed from there. The store also offers in-store consultations.

    – Hirsch’s 

    Hirsch’s started as a family business. Allan Hircsh and his wife Margaret opened their appliance business in Durban in 1979. Today,  it is a huge appliance and home furnishing store and has branches in KZN, Cape Town and Gauteng. They offer the option of an online registry that’ll make your life super easy!

    Also read: Registry mistakes you might be making 

    Picture: Unsplash

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    In News

    Students marry after two-week romance

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    They say that when you know, you know. This young couple are making headlines after getting hitched a mere two weeks after meeting.

    According to Twitter user Yeyethu Baballo, two unnamed first-year students from Rhodes University in Grahamstown tied the knot on March 4, 2020, after being in a relationship for only two weeks. The pair tied the knot at the local Home Affairs office.

    Love at first sight must be real, after all!

    Naturally, South Africans had quite a bit to say about this quick dash down the aisle. Here are a few of our favourite social media responses:

    Feature image: Twitter

     

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    In Emotional

    Women throw best friend a surprise wedding

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    Shevon Cupido and Carmelete Mentoor have been best friends for almost 30 years, and have supported each other each step of the way. Proving that she is a true ride-or-die friend, Shevon, along with their other lifelong friend Jolene Muller, threw her best friend Carmelete a surprise wedding.

    Carmelete met her future fiancé Shawn at a party in 2006. They exchanged numbers and soon became official. In 2012, the pair became engaged at the Cape Company Gardens. However, due to financial reasons, Carmelete and Shawn struggled to set an official wedding date.

    Image: supplied

    Shevon decided to step in and give her best friend a day she’ll never forget.

    “They were planning on eventually having a small ceremony and getting a member of their church to marry them at their house, just the two of them. I knew that wasn’t what she really wanted in her heart so I knew I had to do something as every wedding deserves a celebration,” Shevon explains.

    Sunflowers are the bride’s favourite flower, so Shevon decided to base the decor on this plant and everything fell in place.

    Image: supplied

    Of course, planning a surprise wedding comes with even more difficulties than planning your own. Shevon experienced much stress, particularly over whether they would have enough finances to make the perfect day.

    To keep the surprise alive, Shevon came up with a diversion.

    “My plan was to take her and her now husband out on the Saturday as her 40th birthday was the Thursday before. This gave me an excuse to have them ready for the day and luckily they did not suspect anything until we reached the wedding destination, which was my in-laws home. Before entering the home, I then told them that they are actually there to celebrate their wedding day and was met with shocked but happy faces and lots of happy tears.”

    Image: supplied

    Luckily the bridal couple was over the moon at this surprise.

    “I was shocked and burst into tears when Shevon told us,” says Carmelete. “I then ended up crying the entire day with happiness and gratefulness. I just couldn’t believe that today is the day that I will be getting married. Finally.”

    “My favourite part was seeing everyone that I keep close to my heart. My day was overwhelmed by love, happiness and most of all a thankful heart.”

    Image: supplied

    All images taken by Tred Magill.

    Featured image: supplied

     

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