Weddings Archives | Page 127 of 206

In Accessories

What you need to know about bridal shapewear

March 18, 2020 No Comments

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

In Advice

Ways to inject colour into your wedding decor

March 18, 2020 No Comments

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:

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Feature image: Unsplash

In Fashion

Wedding dress necklines decoded

March 18, 2020 No Comments

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.

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– 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.

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– 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.

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– 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.

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– 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.

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– 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.

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– 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

In News

Over 140 LBGTQIA+ couples wed in mass ceremony

March 18, 2020 No Comments

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

In News

Couple have indoor ‘cruise’ after their trip was cancelled

March 18, 2020 No Comments

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

In Advice

5 ways to mentally prepare for your wedding

March 17, 2020 No Comments

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

In Advice

Wedding gifts all newlyweds will appreciate

March 17, 2020 No Comments

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

In Fashion

Dresses we love: boatneck

March 17, 2020 No Comments

Ever since Megan Markle stunned us with her classic bateau-neckline wedding dress, we’ve been loving this regal look.

The bateau or boatneck neckline features a wide, high neckline that follows the natural curve of ones collarbone and traditionally ends at the shoulder points. The style was actually made famous by Audrey Hepbrun in the 1954 film Sabrina, thus earning the nickname ‘Sabrina neckline’.

Bateau necklines give an effortlessly vintage and classic feel, perfect for the timeless bride. Here are a few of our favourites:

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Feature image: Unsplash

In Announcements

Woman shares engagement news through care facility window

March 17, 2020 No Comments

With the coronavirus sweeping through almost every nation, strict restrictions are in place to keep those who are most vulnerable safe. The elderly are one of the most at risk groups. This Lake Waccamaw woman made the best of a difficult situation, and managed to give her grandfather some good news despite visitor restrictions at his care facility.

The recently engaged Carly Boyd desperately wanted to share her good news with her grandfather. Since visitors are not allowed at the care facility where he resides, she had to find her way around the restrictions. The result, caught on camera by the facility’s administrator, Gennie Parnell, was truly heartwarming.

Boyd stood at her grandfather’s window and showed off her engagement ring. She and her grandfather then touched hands against the glass of the window.

Credit: Premier Living and Rebab Center Info Page

“Even though visitation is restricted at this time, staff suggested an alternative,” said Premier Living & Rehab Center (the facility where Boyd’s grandfather resides) in a Facebook post.

“Emotional and memorable, for sure!! Thank you for allowing us to capture this special moment!!,” they added.

The bride-to-be is a student at Southeastern Community College, she is in pursuit of a qualification to become a Registered Nurse. Trevor Sellers, her fiance, is a contractor with the Department of Transportation. Hopefully this happy couple will have a chance to properly celebrate with Boyd’s grandfather soon!

In the meantime, however, the Community Activity Coordinator at the facility, April Bass, says that they are working hard to make sure residents still have contact with relatives.

Congrats to the happy couple, and the proud grandfather!

Image: Facebook / Primier Living & Rehab Center Info Page

In Emotional

Man celebrates anniversary outside wife’s nursing home

March 17, 2020 No Comments

The coronavirus pandemic has affected people beyond the scope of what we thought possible. A simple thing like spending time together has been taken away from many considered ‘high-risk’.

Such is the story of Bob and Nancy Shellard from Vernon, Connecticut. The pair celebrates their 67th wedding anniversary this year. However, due to the Covid-19 outbreak, Bob was not allowed inside the nursing home Nancy is staying in. The governor of Connecticut had banned nursing home visits for 30 days for concern of the health of the elderly.

The couple have never spent their anniversary apart, and Bob was not about to allow this to be the first time. He decided to celebrate outside Nancy’s window at the nursing home by holding up a sign that read “I’ve loved you 67 years and still do. Happy Anniversary.”

In response, Nancy sent air kisses and waves from inside the nursing home.

“It makes me feel bad because I want her down with me and I know she can’t be,” Bob told NBC Connecticut.

Speaking to NBC Connecticut, the couple’s daughter Laura said, “They have always been an inspiration to us and I think just seeing every year go by that they still express it in some way on their anniversary.”

“It’s just been an example for us, for all of us of kids. So all four of us have really learned a lot from them and I can only hope that I have half as much as what they have shared over the years.”

Image: Screenshot / NBC Connecticut