Fresh florals, luscious leaves, and blooming botanicals. Let your love and wedding day bloom beautifully with nature-inspired decor.
From your wedding venue itself all the way to your place cards, incorporating botanicals into your wedding is a breath of fresh air. Here is some inspiration to help you pull it off perfectly.
Your wedding pictures are an exciting part of the big day- make them count! The world over, celebrities and royals make the news with the all-important wedding kiss picture. And yes, it is cliche but you want it anyway. Here are some of our favourite things to do for this very special picture:
Glitz & glam
On your wedding day, you can be a diva all you want. Incorporate glitter and it won’t be just your eyes that sparkle. Just make sure it’s eco-friendly glitter!
Let the festivities begin
Getting hitched is cause for celebration. Use sparklers to light up your life.
Fairy tale
Get wrapped up in fairy lights for a romantic glow.
Get back to nature
Flowers are always a good idea, creating a playful atmosphere.
Play with sunlight
Catching those last rays on film during the golden hour never gets old.
Pink and husband Carey Hart have not had the easiest relationship, but despite all odds they’ve made it work. The Hollywood couple recently celebrated their 14th wedding anniversary, and both took to social media to express their love.
Along with a collage of photos from the years, Pink wrote a sweet message for her husband.
“So many years, So many hairstyles @hartluck…..We’ve been at this thing a long time, babe. It isn’t perfect, but I’m grateful it’s ours. I love our family. Thank you for walking in front of me, beside me, and right behind me at times. ‘You’re a real man, carey hart.'”
Hart shared the sentiments, posting his own tribute on his Instagram page.
“14 years married to this amazing woman. I’m so proud of the life that we have built together,” he wrote. “Both of us came from broken homes, yet we made the choice to work hard at our relationship. And look at us now! Two misfits when we met, we have grown together and now have an amazing family. Thank you for being my best friend (I know you don’t like that), and amazing mother to our wild kids. I love you so much.”
Pink and Carey Hart married on January 7, 2006. They split up two years later for 11 months before reuniting. They have two children together, Willow Sage Hart, 8, and Jameson Moon Hart, 3.
A unique place card is yet another chance to impress your guests. No matter your wedding theme, there is a fun place card that will be much more memorable than the standard folded cardboard.
Place cards don’t have to be costly. From pinecones to seashells, there is a wealth of materials at your disposal to truly make a small statement to add to your wedding table decor.
Supermodel, entrepreneur and body activist Ashley Graham has been championing for the fashion industry to become more inclusive of plus-size women for years. Her latest collaboration with popular bridal line Pronovias seeks to make what is said to the happiest day of a woman’s life even better.
Ashley Graham x Pronovias is a bridal line designed with all women in mind. A first-of-its-kind collaboration, Graham worked with Pronovias Chief Artistic Director Alessandra Rinaudo to create a varied collection of stunning bridal designs suited to all body types. The 16-piece capsule collection runs from size 0-34 and costs between $1,000 (R14 148) to $3,500 (R49 518) per dress. The dresses each include new, built-in shapewear and an integrated, supportive bra. The line will be available in early 2020 in Pronovias boutiques and partners across the globe.
Graham herself knows the difficulties of wedding dress shopping. “From shopping for the perfect wedding dress to the big reveal on your special day, women should feel confident and empowered throughout the entire process,” she said in a press release. “When I shopped for my wedding dress 10 years ago, I had difficulty finding a style in my size that fit well and made me feel special.”
In an Instagram post, Graham explains she had to compromise on her dream dress because there was simply nothing in the specific shape she wanted that would fit her.
“I found a silhouette that I loved, but I had to accept major details I didn’t want because there was nothing in that shape that fit me. And it wasn’t even the right size! We ended up adding a panel to a size 10 dress off the rack so it would fit my 16 frame to make it work.”
“Finding a dream dress is something I would have loved to experience! Andddd I want all of you to be able to have! I’m so excited to be partnering with @pronovias to create a bridal line for everyone. The collection runs from size 0-34 and there is something for any type of bride! There are so many different dresses for anyone from the classic bride to the ultra-glam bride and options with SLEEVES, which I love. By far my favorite part is that every dress has shapewear and bras built-in. I can’t WAIT for you guys to see the collection when it’s out this March! You shouldn’t have to compromise who you are because of what’s on the rack ????”
Historically, women were required by law to take their husband’s surname. This is because women had no independent legal identity – they needed to be linked to a man. At birth they would be given their fathers surname and when they were married, their surname would change to that of their spouse automatically.
As time passed and women contested the laws regarding their rights, the rules changed. Now, changing your name is completely optional. The number of women who prefer to retain their maiden name is fast-growing world-wide.
There is, however, a certain feeling of romance and permanence that comes with changing your name as you get married. And of course, there is nothing wrong with wanting to change it!
The decision can be difficult to make. It is a very personal decision; one that only you can make for yourself. But to assist you in making the decision, here is a list of pros and cons of changing your name.
Pros
– You will have the same surname as your kids
If you decide to have children, they will most likely be given their father’s surname as lineage is typically tracked through male family members. If you opt to keep your maiden name, you’ll be the only one in your family with a different surname. This may cause you to feel a bit isolated. There may also come a time where you have to prove that you are your child’s mother – this is less likely if you have the same surname.
– It feels like a formal beginning of a new chapter
As you start this new chapter of your life, a change may feel necessary. While there are certainly many changes that come with marriage such as your living space and your daily routine, the change of a name is the only one that is bound by law. Changing your name can feel like you’re solidifying the new chapter of your life.
– You will spend less time explaining yourself
If you don’t change your name, you’ll be inundated with questions from your older family members who expect you to change your name and follow tradition. Other people might assume you’re not married, and when they realise you’ll likely be asked to explain why you have a different surname to your partner. Your kids in their younger years might also struggle to understand why their parents have different surnames.
While it is easy to answer all of the questions above and while you don’t owe anybody an explanation for your decisions, changing your name allows you to avoid all the fuss.
– You will feel more connected to your partner
There is a sense of unity that comes with sharing a surname with your partner. It also makes it easier to do things on behalf of your partner, especially if the law is involved.
Cons
– Paperwork and admin
The effort you have to put in to legally change your name is enough to put anyone off. The documents are complex and lengthy. You have to remember, you’re not just changing your ID. You’re also changing your passport, drivers licence, insurance, bank cards, and your store accounts or memberships.
The government issued documents are sure to take a while to process. As we know, a trip to Home Affairs is a full-day standing-in-line experience.
– May affect your career
If you’re at a point in your life where you have built a solid professional identity, you may be giving that up by changing your name. Your professional acquaintances may have trouble finding you. People may not vouch for you and your outstanding work when asked about you as they may not know your name has changed and thus won’t know who they are being asked about.
– Separation from your family
You will no longer share a surname with your parents and siblings. This may cause you to feel distanced from them and from your roots. Your individual identity may also be affected as a result.
– You will struggle to access old legal documents
If you need to access legal documents or financial documents from years gone by, it will be much more difficult with a new surname.
– Could feel like you’re opposing your personal politics
If you’re anti-patriarchy and pro-feminism, you may consider the history of the name change off-putting. If you change your name, it could feel as though you’re giving in to the system.
Of course, there are other options than changing or keeping your name. You could hyphenate your old and new surname or even get creative by combining a part of your surname with your partners to create a new one that you can share.
If you’re struggling to make the decision, why not flip a coin? That’s exactly what this couple did.
Regardless of your choice, it is one you have to make for yourself. Any decision is the right decision if it feels true to you.
Weddings can be taxing on the environment. Yes, flower walls are beautiful and balloon decor is whimsical, but they’re also wasteful and harmful for the environment. As the wedding industry shifts towards more sustainable practices, one plant rises above.
Spekboom has long been lauded for its magical powers. Also known as Pork Bush or Elephant’s Food, this water-wise tree of wonder can absorb higher amounts of carbon dioxide than any other plant in existence. A healthy thicket of this South African treasure trove is said to be ten times more effective at removing carbon dioxide from the air than the Amazon Forest.
South Africans are encouraged to plant spekboom wherever they may to play their part in combatting climate change. Those lacking a green thumb need not worry. The plant is easy to grow and water-wise, meaning it is low maintenance.
There are so many ways to incorporate this hard-working plant into your wedding. Here are some ideas.
Bridal bouquet:
Spekboom is a perfectly rustic addition to your bridal bouquet. If you’re not into the leaves, spekboom in full bloom is typically covered in tiny pink flowers that will add a beautiful pop of colour to your floral arrangement.
Credit: Instagram / suneoosthuizen7
Food:
Packed with vitamin C and other nutrients, spekboom leaves are juicy and full of moisture. They leave an acidic taste of lemon on the tongue, making spekboom an excellent addition to fresh salads or even in the wedding cake itself. Spekboom also helps to fight dehydration, making this magical plant perfect for hot summer weddings.
Credit: Stork.co.za
Decor:
Tiny clippings of spekboom are amazingly fresh additions to wedding decor. Use them as table decor on plates or in planters, in floral centrepieces and in hanging floral arrangements.
Credit: nikimphotography.com
Wedding favours:
Give your guests the gift of spekboom for a memorable wedding favour that will bloom for decades. One small clipping can grow into a magnificent spekboom bush when planted. The plant can live up to 200 years, meaning this gift is truly one for the ages.
Here’s the thing. Plus size is not a category. It is all the different body type categories in a bigger size. As such, there is no one-size-fits-all. Essentially, the secret to looking stunning is actually dressing for your figure in the right size. The biggest mistake many ladies make is to buy a dress that is too large, or necessarily loose fitting. That will only make you look bigger than you actually are. They key to success is to ask someone you trust- maybe a friend or even professional stylist- what styles flatter you the most, and then make sure you get it in the right size for you. Not a size too small (rookie mistake) and definitely not too big (there’s no need to).
If you can identify your best attributes, accentuate them and cover the less great parts (we all have them) you will be the best version of yourself and beam with confidence. Here is some inspiration to get you going:
Riverdale’s Vanessa Morgan, who plays Toni Topaz on the popular CW show, started the year on a high note by saying ‘I do’ to longterm boyfriend, professional baseball player Michael Kopech on January 4, 2020.
The couple made the big commitment at the Historic Walton House in Homestead, Florida with an intimate ceremony of only 40 guests.
Morgan stunned in a sheer high-necked, long sleeve beaded gown by Eisen-Stein Bridal, and Kopech wore a beige suit for the nuptials.
The couple began dating in mid-2018 after meeting through social media and became engaged on the Fourth of July 2019.
“We both knew the first day we met that ‘this is it’ and I’m so excited that today officially starts our forever,” Morgan told E! News. “Today, I vowed to love my best friend for a lifetime and it was a day spent with those we love in a room filled with endless love. I can’t wait to spend the rest of my life with him.”
Of course, the wedding was attended by Morgan’s Riverdale co-stars, including Skeet Ulrich, Drew Tanner, and Madelaine Petsch, who acted as one of her bridesmaids.
Take a look at their stunning rustic glam wedding decor below:
Castles are not only for royalty. Complete your fairytale wedding by getting married in a real life castle! Across the world, there are many unique and stunning castles that make the perfect backdrop for your ‘I dos’. Here are a few of our favourites:
The Lichtenstein Castle – Cape Town
Situated on the hills of Karbonkelberg Mountain overlooking Hout Bay, the Lichtenstein Castle is a gothic dream come to life. Built to replicate the Gothic Schloss Lichtenstein Castle in southern Germany, this magnificent castle comes complete with statues of dragons and gargoyles, as well as a magnificent waterfall.
Inside, there is a ballroom with black and white checkered flooring, hand-blown glass chandeliers, and stable doors opening out to rolling green lawns. There are also 4 bedrooms and a honeymoon suite that you can use as your own private villa for the evening. The venue fits 150 guests seated or 250 cocktail.
Neuschwanstein Castle – southwest Bavaria, Germany
Neuschwanstein Castle, located on the Bavarian Alps, is one of the most visited castles in the world, and it’s clear to see why. Built on a rugged hill above the village of Hohenschwangau, this magnificent castle is inspired by Romanesque Revival. The castle was commissioned by King Ludwig II of Bavaria in 1869, and upon his death was opened to the public in 1886. Cinderella’s castle was modelled after Neuschwanstein, making this venue quite literally from a fairytale.
While you cannot get married inside the castle, couples are permitted to hold their ceremony on the grassy area in front of it, or in the chapel of Hohenschwangau Castle that has a view of Neuschwanstein.
One of the most coveted wedding venues in the world, Oheka Castle is a luxurious French-inspired location that has been hosting weddings since 1919. Once the home of investment financier and philanthropist Otto Hermann Kahn and his family, Oheka was built between 1914 and 1919 and is the second largest private home in the United States. The castle is made up of 127 rooms and over 109,000 square feet (10,100 m2).
Oheka Castle has inspired more than brides. F.Scott Fitzgerald was partially inspired by the mansion when describing Jay Gatsby’s stately home in The Great Gatsby. The castle also featured in Taylor Swift’s Blank Space music video.
New Zealand’s Larnach Castle is situated on the picturesque Otago Peninsula and was built in 1871 by merchant baron and politician William Larnach for his first wife Eliza. It was purchased by the Barkey family in 1967, who still privately own it today, and was restored to feature original New Zealand period furniture and antiques.
Your nuptials can take place at a number of places on the Castle grounds, including the Rock Garden on the Ballroom Lawn, the Reflecting Pond with Dunedin City framed in the background, the Alice lawn or under the beautiful 1930s Cupola. For your reception, step inside the ballroom that features period architecture, glorious furnishings, magnificent chandeliers, baronial open fires and a polished sprung dance floor. The ballroom can accommodate up to 180 people.
Nestled in the Cotswold Hills, Sudeley Castle’s buildings, ruins and award-winning gardens cover a sprawling 1,200 acres of grounds. This Tudor-style castle was once home to Queen Katherine Parr, the last and surviving wife of King Henry VIII, who also died here is buried on the grounds.
The venue’s 15th century church is the perfect ceremony location for traditional couples, but you can also choose from the Castle Library and their various outdoor spaces including the Secret garden, Queens’ garden, and Mulberry lawn to tie the knot. A bespoke marquee on the private Castle Lawn, which boasts grand views of the Castle and overlooks water lilies on the carp pond, is a stunning place to hold your ceremony.
Built in 1854 by the La Rochefoucauld family, one of the most eminent families of France, Château de Challain-la-Potherie is a magnificent mansion honouring net-gothic romanticism. It stretches 7,600 square meters, has 4 towers, 12 turrets and 26 spiral staircases that complete the fairytale feel.
Chateau Challain offers a full-service chateau wedding packages for 120+ guests that includes attentive staff and exclusive use of 23 decadently decorated suites, as well as their 72 acres of gardens, forest, and lake. You can say ‘I do’ in the spacious 18th century church opposite the chateau, under the gazebo by the lake, outside the beautiful Memorial Tower or even in their small on-site chapel.
Castell De Santa Florentina, or St. Florentina’s Castle, is a cultural heritage site that has been existence since the 11th century. The castle features a stunningly serene courtyard and interiors Game of Thrones fans might recognise as Horn Hill, the estate of House Tarly in the popular shows sixth season.
Wedding ceremonies can be held on the patio, pictured below, before guests move on to the magnificent Throne Hall that was designed to receive the King of Spain Alfonso XIII with his court, and can host a banquet of 200 people. You’ll definitely feel like royalty at this castle.
Hluboká Castle is considered one of the most beautiful castles in the Czech Republic and was once home to Prince Jan Adolf II. Schwarzenberg. The castle was first built in the 13th century in the Gothic style, but has since been renovated many times, revealing a Baroque style during the 18th century and then being reconstructed to emulate the romantic style of England’s Windsor Castle.
Wedding ceremonies can be held on the hill in front of the castle, in the Ceremonial hall in the former orangery, by the pond in the park or in the interior of large dining room.
St. Florentina’s Castle – Barcelona, Spain
