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In Celebs

Andrea Bocelli serenades wife as a ‘thank you’

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World-famous Italian tenor is known for his beautiful vocals and distinctive voice, and recently collaborated with pop singer Ellie Goulding to sing a breathtaking song called Return to Love. He dedicated a Christmas version of this song to his wife, and it will leave you in tears.

Bocelli was diagnosed with congenital glaucoma after a football accident, and went completely blind at the age of 12. Since he first launched his career in 1982, he has recorded 15 solo albums, along with three greatest hit albums and nine complete operas.

Bocelli has said that his success would be nothing without the support of his beautiful wife Veronica. He arranged this beautiful surprise to thank her for all her love and support throughout the years, and blindfolded Veronica before leading her into their house. When her blindfold was removed, she discovered her husband at the piano, along with a gospel choir to serenade her.

See the stunning performance here:

Picture: E! Online

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In Weddings

The history of the wedding kiss

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While some traditions fade and others are altered, the wedding kiss has remained. A kiss after the vows is a wedding tradition that, it seems, will never disappear. Today, the wedding kiss serves as a representation of love and devotion between the couple. Historically, however, the wedding kiss had a different purpose.

Like many – if not most – traditions passed down for centuries, the history is a bit broken and unclear. As a result, there are a few origin stories of the wedding kiss.

The most commonly cited story is that of the ancient Romans (753 BC to 27 BC and then from 64 AD to 1453 AD). In ancient Rome, the wedding kiss was more of a legal formality; it symbolised a transaction that had taken place.

In those times, marriage was considered a contract and the kiss was the “signature” that rendered the contract binding. Neel Burton MD says, “In an age of widespread illiteracy, kisses served to seal agreements, thus the expression ‘to seal with a kiss.'” The kiss was also considered to be the first time that the couple ever kissed.

Others argue that the history of this significant kiss starts in the church. In ancient Catholic ceremonies, it was customary for priests to give the groom “a kiss of peace.” The groom was then required to pass the kiss on to his dearly beloved. It is said that this is how the phrase “you may now kiss the bride” came about.

Another religious argument about the origin story of this kiss comes from the scripture itself. The kiss is said to symbolise the fulfilment of the scripture that says “and the two shall become one flesh” (Mark 10:8).

Wherever it stems from, we’re pretty glad that it stood the test of time. The wedding kiss is one of the most anticipated moments of a western wedding. When celebs or royals are married, the kiss is sometimes even analysed by body language experts.

If public displays of affection are not for you though, remember that the kiss is not compulsory and your nuptials are still valid without it!

Image: Unsplash

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In Beauty

Silky pre-wedding must-haves to help you look your best

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Whilst planning a wedding is incredibly exciting, it can also prove to be extremely stressful – high levels of stress and late nights of restless sleep spent worrying about your to-do-list can wreak havoc on your skin.

Not just a catchy phrase, beauty sleep is a real thing. When it comes to your beauty routine, sleep may be the closest thing there is to a fountain of youth. Your body and skin repairs itself and recovers while you snooze, so to ensure glowing skin, luscious locks and healthy sleep leading up to your big day, we’ve rounded up some pre-wedding must-haves which will also make for perfect gifts for your bridal team.

Silk is a gift from nature and the ideal organic skincare and anti-aging solution! Dermatologists, hair specialists and plastic surgeons all recommend sleeping on 100% silk pillowcases. Silk has very similar properties to human skin in that it contains a natural protein that contributes to skin health by speeding up the metabolism of skin cells, while delaying the aging process and calming the nervous system.

Silk Pillowcases:

Compared to other fabrics, silk has long, smooth fibers that do not rub or irritate the skin. Sleeping on 100% organic silk pillowcases has both skin and hair care benefits:

• naturally hypoallergenic
• prevents facial skin from creasing
• maintains hydration
• keeps your skincare products on your skin, enabling you to make the most of your beauty routine
• eliminates sleep wrinkles
• prevents hair from frizzing and ends splitting
• reduces the loss of natural hair oils and moisture so that hair retains its natural glossy shine
• minimizes damage to thinning of hair
• naturally hypoallergenic
• repels dust-mites

Available in standard (R490), king R589) and travel size (R257).

Sleeping Masks:

Made from 100% pure silk (inside and out) with an adjustable strap, The Silk Lady’s Sleeping Masks (R337) offer two-fold benefits – the luxurious feeling of soft mulberry silk against the skin, and the comfort of darkness as it blocks out light. The soft and smooth surface helps prevent facial skin from creasing during the night and allows your delicate skin to breathe so the face rests comfortably without pressure on your skin. The Satin Silk used will not absorb your valuable night creams, but rather helps to retain the natural moisture in your skin throughout the night, keeping skin hydrated and nourished. Also included, is a pouch filled with organic French lavender to help promote relaxation and deep, restorative sleep. The deluxe, oversized sleeping mask (R425) covers the ears, so you sleep wrapped in your own luxury silk cushion.

Organic Peace Silk Beauty Cocoons:

The Silk Lady’s Organic Peace Silk Beauty Cocoons (R375) is an all-natural way to exfoliate and promote smooth, plump and nourished skin (a great alternative for people who love nature without cruelty). Gentle enough to use every day without damaging the epidermis, the surface structure of the silk cocoons is softly abrasive which helps to remove impurities, dead skin and make-up residue, revealing a silky smooth and radiant complexion. When soaked in warm water, Sericin, a key protein created by Bombyx mori (silkworms) is released which, when used regularly, helps to wipe away wrinkles, effectively eliminate acne scars as well as reduce pigmentation. It also assists in healing injured or chapped skin and eases inflammation.

Visit The Silk Lady for more.

Images: Supplied

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In Celebs

Princess Beatrice’s wedding: What we know so far

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Royal weddings have a special place in our hearts, simply because they are so vastly different from every other kind of wedding there is. Everything is done on a big scale and according to tradition. Certain rules and do’s and don’ts apply. Procedure must be followed and the bride and groom almost seem to be bystanders. Still, it’s nothing short of a fairy tale the day the royal bride steps out in her beautiful dress.

Princess Beatrice of York is the daughter of Prince Andrew, Duke of York and of course, granddaughter of Queen Elizabeth II. However, news of her engagement to Edoardo Alessandro Mapelli Mozzi had been overshadowed by a recent scandal involving her father, and not much is known about the wedding details. Here is what we do know.

Her platinum engagement ring was designed by Shaun Leane and has a 3.5 carat round diamond set in an art deco design, with tapered baguettes on each side of the centre.

The couple is not allowed to reveal their wedding date until the Queen approves the reveal. According to Express.co.uk, a friend of the couple said they will reveal the wedding date early in the new year. The wedding is rumoured to be in the “early summer,” which could be anything from May to June.

Regarding the venue, the general thought was that they would tie the knot at St George’s Chapel in Windsor, where Prince Harry married Meghan Markle, as well as Beatrice’s sister, Princess Eugenie married Jack Brooksbank. However, reliable intel now points toward The Guards’ Chapel at St James’s Park, which serves military members and their families.

 

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A post shared by Jeze Sugiharto (@jeze17) on

Another rumour doing the rounds is that award-winning British singer-songwriter James Blunt, who is a close friend of the couple, will be performing at the wedding.

 

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Asia, here we come! www.jamesblunt.com/tour Pic by @rcstills

A post shared by James Blunt (@jamesblunt) on

Either way, we’re sure the wedding will be marvelous and we will be here for it every step of the way!

Picture: Instagram

 

 

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In Bridal Party

Why we have a bridal party

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Weddings have been happening since time began and so many of the traditions we know and practice today have existed for decades. One such interesting tradition is the bridal party.

It’s commonplace to see a squad of women and men flanking the bride and groom on their big day. Usually their closest friends, the bridal party is meant to support and assist the bride and groom throughout the wedding process. However, the origins of the bridal party is pretty unromantic.

The Bible contains one of the earliest references to bridesmaids. In Jacob’s wedding to Leah and Rachel, both women had their literal servant maids present at their ceremony.

In ancient Roman times, there needed to be 10 witnesses at a wedding whilst the couple recited their verses, acting as an early form of the bridal party. While the witnesses were typically all male, eventually it evolved to include women. The women had to wear identical gowns to the bride to confuse vengeful spirits aiming to thwart the newlyweds happiness. This is why bridesmaids typically wear similar outfits today.

Groomsmen of this time had a pretty…interesting role. In various historical cases, groomsmen were said to kidnap brides from her family home and bring her to her groom. They would then stand beside the bride to make sure other suitors or family members couldn’t take her back.

By the Victorian era, the concept of the bridal party as we know it today began to take shape. Speaking to Vogue, luxury wedding and event planner Gina Wade explains: “during that time, bridesmaids organized flowers and party favours but they also walked down the aisle carrying herbs, garlic, and grains to scare away evil spirits.”

Today, brides typically have a maid/matron of honour and however many bridesmaids, and the groom has his best man and groomsmen. Modern couples are moving away from tradition, with some even opting out of having a bridal party altogether. At the end of the day, it’s what feels right for you. Your wedding should be what you want it to be, regardless of tradition.

Also read: Bride chooses grandmothers as bridesmaids

Feature image: Unsplash

 

 

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In Advice

How to find the perfect red lipstick for you

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A bold red lip makes you feel powerful. We know! There’s nothing like a good red lipstick. Dressed up or dressed down, red lipstick can be paired with almost anything, making it the go-to for many.

The only problem: finding the perfect red lipstick is no small task. Your skin tone is a major determinant in which red you should go for. That’s why the red lip that your friend wears (the one you love to death) doesn’t have the same effect on your lips.

We’re of the opinion that your handbag should always have a red lipstick inside it. So, here is a quick and easy guide to finding the perfect one for you.

For a fair complexion

Go for a blue-based or pink-based red lipstick. The cool tones will contrast well with your fair complexion because of its pink-based undertone.

Our pick: Maybelline Made For All Lipstick by Color Sensational in Red-For-Me R139.95

Image: Maybelline

For a medium complexion 

Opt for an orange-based red. This will bring a brightening look to your skin tone and remove any pallidness.

Our pick: M A C Matte Lipstick in Lady Danger R260

Image: MAC Cosmetics

For an olive complexion 

Look for a brick or rust tinted red. You could also go for a coral or orange base. An olive complexion carries a yellow-green undertone. Earthy toned lipsticks will work effortlessly with your skin.

Our pick: NYX Butter Lipstick in Mary Janes R129.95

Credit: Clicks

For a dark complexion 

A darker complexion allows for a wider variety of reds. If you want a bold look, opt for a deep, true red. If you want a more natural look, go for blue-based reds.

Our pick: M A C Retro Matte Lipstick in Ruby Woo R260

Image: MAC

 

Image: Unsplash

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In Advice

Wedding gifts for every budget

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You can’t show up to a wedding empty-handed. With so many options, it can be hard to pinpoint what to get newlyweds to welcome them into married life. Look no further. We’ve rounded up some great gift ideas your couple will love.

R0-R300

– Modello coaster leather and marble set – R249

– Simply Delicious by Zola Nene – R277

– Small ceramic planter pot – R199

– Amber Vase On Stand – R259

– Saltpur Natural Himalayan Salt Lamp, 2-3kg -R285

R300 – R500

– Pure Collection Cappuccino Cups set – R449

– Mini gin tasting box – R399

– Herb garden set – R479

– Tosca accessory tray – R399

– Private Collection 24 Piece Cutlery Set R399

R500 – R750

– hammered champagne bowl – R699

– ‘Within reach’ salad bowl  R695

– Stone Wash Quilt 230x200cm – R699

– Glo LED photo display – R549

– Kitchen Craft Le’Xpress 8 Cup Stainless Steel Coffee Plunger 1L – R649

R750 – R1000

–Humble & Mash Stoneware 12 Piece Dinner Set – R899

– Riedel Stemless Red Wine Glasses with 1 Litre Decanter – R899

– Aura Purity Ultrasonic Diffuser – R669

– Baccaran artisan knife 7 piece block set – R999

– Kitchen Craft KitchenCraft BarCraft 6 Piece Cocktail Set – R799

Feature image: Unsplash

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In Advice

Minimalist wedding invitation inspiration

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Simplistic and elegant, minimalism values experiences over things. Blank spaces and basic lettering may seem boring, but this paired design makes a powerful yet subtle statement.  If you identify with the minimalist trend then you will love these wedding invitation designs.

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

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bra80xvA8iY/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

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

https://www.instagram.com/p/B5KNTdKhXNY/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B4uCgkVBldz/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B4cwbajjHM5/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B3d4rSuhiKz/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B3Mshizlwkx/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/By_6bGOl9rz/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bo1sI9JH9uz/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Feature image: Pexels

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In Advice

Dresses we love: Tea length

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For a fun and flirty finish, consider donning a tea-length gown for your big day. While sweeping trains give an ample dose of drama, a tea length gown is chic and effortless – perfect for the relaxed bride.

From your engagement party, rehearsal dinner to the big day itself, these glamorous gowns will leave you looking lovely.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B5pQycijQN8/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B5m3mkNHc4K/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bzv2lmmC4Bg/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B47RCIQhA37/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B5FOfDChvlh/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B4X4sm4hfaw/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/BbeyXldHyS4/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B5N0keLlj3W/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B5M1h4aBGxA/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/B4yVCyQjjWD/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Feature image: Pexels

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In News

Wedding guests made to hike 3 hours to wedding destination

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Who knew a wedding could literally be an uphill battle? This unique couple decided that they wanted to say ‘I do’ on a mountain top, so they made their wedding guests hike three hours to the wedding destination.

Livvy Bruce, 35, and Justin Flitter, 40 from Aukland, New Zealand chose an unusual spot for their December 7 nuptials, settling on the Pinnacles Hut on the Coromandel Peninsula, only a casual three-hour uphill hike away.

“We’ve always done a lot of hiking adventures together over the last three years and when we were looking for venues and ideas, we wanted to do something different,” Flitter explained to Stuff Online.”Everyone thought we were a little bit nuts when we told them we’re getting married at the Pinnacles Hut – it’s a three-hour hike, most of it’s uphill, you’ve got to carry everything in and out, you can’t helicopter in, there’s no proper toilet and there’s no power.”

On the day, the bride simply rolled up her wedding dress and kept it safe in her backpack during the hike.

Credit: Anita Pitu Photography

Their big day was a collaborative event, where their 60 guests all participated in making the wedding festivities. They brought their own drinks and snacks to create a shared antipasto platter. Luckily, the newlyweds catered the main meal of mexican wraps and salads followed by meringues and fruit.

“It’s very much an effort where everyone has to contribute, everyone is involved in helping to cook, clean, decorate – everyone gets a job to do. Everybody chipped in and that made it really, really special,” Flitter said.

Image: Unsplash

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