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    In Celebs

    KFC couple weds: Here’s what we know

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    The country’s favourite couple, Nonhlanhla Soldaat and Hector Mkansi are tying the knot on New Year’s eve!

    After a whirlwind of public participation including the search for the ‘KFC couple’ and then the masses offering to contribute towards their wedding, the big day is finally here.

    While we are sitting on the edge of our seats to see the dress, here’s what we know so far.

    Nonhlanhla’s dress cost over R30 000, the designer/supplier is still anonymous at this time. “I want my wife to feel like a queen because she is my queen, even her dress will show that,” was all Hector was willing to reveal.

    The wedding theme is royal, with gold and champagne as the main colours. Royal weddings are notoriously lavish and over the top, so we’re excited to see what the decor looks like. We’re sure the couple will have the finest of everything, from the flowers down to cutlery fit for a king and queen.

    The venue is unknown for privacy reasons, but we do know there will be 250 guests. At first, the Johannesburg couple had their hopes up to get the FNB stadium so that they could invite the whole country, but it was not to be.

    “There were so many people who requested to attend the wedding and we also had it in our hearts. Unfortunately, we were told that the stadium is already booked for the date so we had to find a different venue,” Hector told W24.

    The couple was initially offered numerous luxurious honeymoon destinations by resorts all over the country, but rumour has it they will hop on a flight for an international honeymoon in the US.  When they return, they plan to do a province-to-province tour so they can meet and thank all their supporters all across SA.

    The couple is eternally grateful to everyone who is helping to make their dream wedding come true. “I was just showing my wife how much I love and appreciate her and now she will get a wedding she never dreamed she would be having,” Hector said.

    We wish them love and happiness!

    Also read: South African KFC proposal goes viral

    Picture: Twitter/Hector Mkansi Mzansi Couple

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    In Celebs

    Inside Hilary Duff and Matthew Koma’s front yard wedding

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    Now this is what dreams are made of. Disney child star Hilary Duff said ‘I do’ to singer and record producer Matthew Koma in a beautiful private ceremony in their own front yard in Los Angeles, with personal meaning embedded throughout the day.

    In 2018, Koma popped the question to Duff in a meaningful way. On a walk through a New York park, Koma presented Duff with an illustrated notebook, featuring images of them and their two kids Luca (that Duff shares with ex-husband Mike Comrie) and Banks.

    “All of a sudden he says, ‘I’ve been working on something for you, and you’re going to love it. I really want our kids to know our story and now we can keep adding to this book,” duff tells Vogue. “It’s our whole entire story mapped out for us to refer back to as we get older and for our kids to know, which is amazing. I get to the very last page, and there’s a little piece that I have to lift up and my ring was inside. It was so sweet. It was really special and really simple, which is very much how we are and how we operate. Then it started raining, and it was perfect.”

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B6ZuBNiHyHh/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    With such a meaningful proposal, the wedding had to match. Duff wanted a simple and understated yet powerful wedding day. Working with celebrity planner Yifat Oren, they created an intimate front yard ceremony. Guest seats were arranged in a u-shape designed to feel like a hug. Duff’s Younger co-star Molly Bernard and actor Chris Mintz-Plasse acted as the officiants.

    Their two kids were also part of the ceremony. Luca acted as ring bearer, and Duff walked down the aisle holding one-year-old daughter Banks.

    Credit: Instagram / Hilary Duff
    Credit: Instagram / Hilary DUff

    Duff wore a stunning caped gown designed by Jenny Pakham. The dress featured a high neckline, an open back, long sleeves with slits up the front and accented saddle-shoulders. Their initials, their children’s initials, as well as the date of the wedding were embroidered inside the lining of the dress.

    Credit: Instagram / Hilary Duff

    After the ceremony, Duff changed into a shimmering gold dress for the reception, where guests partied the night away. Congrats to the newlyweds!

    Feature image: Instagram / Hilary Duff

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    In Wedding Gowns

    $15-million wedding dress unveiled

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    Following in his tradition of ultimate grandeur, Egyptian designer Hany el-Behairy closed his 2019 fashion year with an expensive bang by showcasing his breathtaking, one-of-a-kind wedding dress valued at a mega R212,317,515,00 ($15-million).

    El-Behairy enlisted the help of Egyptian actress Mai Omar, who you might recognise from movies like ‘Speed does’ and’ Last rooster in Egypt’, to elegantly adorn his latest masterpiece to the world, in the city of Cairo.

     

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    HANYELBEHAIRY?th Fashion show @maiomar_ @hanyelbehairycouture

    A post shared by Bezraa ??‍♂️ (@mohamedadell.1) on

    The world record-setting, high-low styled dress is decorated with a plethora of diamonds and small precious stones. It has a long train at the back, with a matching star-decorated diamond encrusted veil to complete the look.

    The garment joins a prestigious list of other famous and costly wedding gowns such as Victoria Swarovski’s custom-made R14, 100,500,00 gown and Kim Kardashian West’s R7,000,000 dress.

     

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    الفنانة الجميلة مى عمر @maiomar_ نجمة عرض ديفيلية هانى البحيرى ٢٠٢٠

    A post shared by hanyelbehairy (@hanyelbehairycouture) on

    This is not el-Behairy first attempt at creating the most expensive wedding dress. During his 2017 annual fashion show, Egyptian actress Yousra El-Lozy walked the runway in a diamond-embellished dress that was worth a then world record-setting R56,616,910.00 ($4 million).

    We eagerly await his next creation, and can’t begin to imagine what it will cost.

    Feature image: Twitter/@hanyalbehairy

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    In Celebs

    Man marries best friend’s mother in a prank

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    Two best friends from the US, David Dobrik and Jason Nash are self-proclaimed pranksters and are always out to get one another. So, when Nash teased social media influencer Dobrik saying no one will ever marry him, Dobrik set out to prove him wrong. By marrying Nash’s mother!

    Dobrik (22) filmed the whole episode and explained to Lorraine Nash (74) that it was all a joke. She didn’t hesitate to jump in and play along.

    Dobrik took to Twitter saying “My friend told me I would never find love and get married. So I flew to his moms house and married her on the spot. Now that same friend is my stepson. True love always wins”

    After leaving Jason and the rest of his family thoroughly stunned with the Las Vegas wedding and Hawaii honeymoon, the pair called it off a month later and filed for divorce.

    Dobrik seems to have hit two birds with one stone, as he not only pranked his friend but also already got 10 million views on Youtube.

    Picture: Twitter

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    In Accessories

    Put an ethically sourced, sustainable ring on it

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    Diamonds are a girl’s best friend, but also precious commodities and rare beauties forged from the earth. Rare jewels are often backed by an underbelly of exploration and greed. The burden of ensuring products are ethically sourced should never fall on the consumer, but on the producer instead. In saying this, it is our duty to challenge the transparency of companies.

    Ethically sourced wedding rings have an array of underlining principles such as fair trade wages, lab-grown diamonds, recycled materials and conflict-free diamonds/jewels. You don’t necessarily need to be an environmental advocate or human rights lawyer to protest the crimes against the diamond industry. Below you will find a list of producers creating ethically sourced jewellery for the socially conscious bride-to-be.

    Taylor & Hart

     

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    A post shared by Storytellers at heart ? (@taylorandhart) on

    Taylor & Hart was founded by friends, Nikolay and Shane. They believe the love between partners are intangible and sacred, therefore your wedding bands should be made from the most exceptional materials on earth. The company creates beautiful handcrafted rings made from lab-grown diamonds, recycled gold and ethically sourced materials. Nikolay and Shane go beyond the Kimberly Process to ensure their diamonds are conflict-free.

    Monique Pean

     

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    A post shared by M O N I Q U E P É A N (@moniquepean) on

    This brand boasts unique shapes and structures specifically designed for the bold bride. The classic shape of engagement rings is challenged through Monique Pean’s artistic take on wedding bands. Although the designer has an artistic, non-conventional mindset, the materials and craftsmanship are put in the forefront. The brand truly understands creating pieces of uniqueness, which they reflect in their use of materials. Rare materials such as fossilised walrus ivory and dinosaur bone are utilised and are sustainably sourced and crafted through fair trade initiatives.

    John Hardy

     

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    A post shared by John Hardy (@johnhardyjewelry) on

    Established in 1975, the island-inspired jewellery brand is directed by Hollie Bonneville Barden and has a well-rounded grasp of serving both the community and environment. John Hardy thrives on the community of Bali and the idea togetherness. The brand empowers the community of the island by providing apprenticeships and life long job security. In doing so, they preserve traditional artisan craftsmanship and culture, with many of the pieces inspired by the island and drawing the traditional aesthetics of the Balinese culture. The company not only preserves the community but the environment as well by committing to sourcing stones, diamonds and metals that are conflict-free and ethically produced in every step of the way.

    Barino Neal

     

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    A post shared by Bario Neal (@barioneal) on

    The brand was launched in 2008 by Anna Bario and Page Neal. The owners visualised a jewellery company whereby no bounds of conformity were attached to their pieces. They believe you are free to marry whomever and however you choose. The jewellery is handcrafted and carefully designed using reclaimed precious metals, fair-mined gold and ethically sourced stones.

    Ashley Heather

     

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    A post shared by ashleyheather?ethical jewelry (@ashleyheatherjewellery) on

    Ashley Heather is a Cape Town-based brand led by designer and maker, Ashley. It’s a remarkable, innovative brand that collects discarded electronic products and recycles them into jewellery. The aesthetics of the handcrafted pieces transcend trends and the contemporary designs are simplistic and minimal. The brand believes in creating pieces that can be passed down from generation to generation in the hopes of persevering quality craftsmanship.

    Dear Rae

     

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    A post shared by Dear Rae (@dearrae) on

    Dear Rae is the brain child of fine arts graduate Karin Rae Matthees. The brand uses local materials and manufactures to create unique pieces. Dear Rae design aesthetic can be described as classically minimal pieces that you can wear for the rest of your life. Karin’s brand adheres to the Kimberly process as well, and sources local manufactures for production, ensuring each step of the manufacturing process is completely transparent.

    By Mia Smith

    Feature image: Unsplash

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    In Advice

    I think my partner is getting cold feet, what now?

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    The thing about a marriage is that it’s a big deal. You’re making a lifelong commitment to another person, and choosing to share everything you have forever. That is bound to intimidate even the most courageous of people and once the excitement of the new engagement is over, doubt might settle in. If you start to notice a change in your partner’s behaviour in the days leading up to the wedding, it’s easy to panic or think their feelings for you have changed. Guess what, feeling unsure before the big day is normal! But fret not, it doesn’t mean it’s all over. Here’s what to do when you see the signs:

    Don’t make assumptions

    Actually, this counts for all relationships in life. Never assume you know something if it hasn’t been explicitly communicated. You might read too much into insignificant situations, or you might just have caught the tail end of a story. Also remember that nerves are not the same as cold feet, so don’t confuse anticipation with your partner bailing on you. It’s a big day for you both.

    Don’t confront them immediately

    Sometimes, the first reaction to detecting behavioural change is to go to the person and ask what’s bothering them. This is usually not a good idea, as it could imply mistrust, or it could simply be something minor that will blow over. If, like we mentioned before, it’s just nerves or other stress, confrontation might feel like an attack when in fact they need support. First give them two or three weeks to process what they need to. However, don’t leave it too long, either! If, for some reason there is a change in feelings on either side, it would be better to work it out sooner rather than later.

    Have a relaxed sit down

    So, you’ve given them time and nothing has changed? If you’re still worried and your partner hasn’t confided in you yet, there might be something worth discussing before you tie the knot. Remember, the end goal is not to generate conflict, pass blame or accuse them of anything. The aim here is open communication and making the best decision for you both. Ask them to set some time aside for a coffee or beer, and calmly ask them what’s been on their mind lately. If you still don’t get a response, state the reasons you have for your concerns, and make it clear that you are open to listen, even if it might not be what you want to hear.

    Give them time

    After the conversation, both should know exactly how the other one feels. But no hasty decision has ever benefited anyone, so don’t run off and do something crazy. If they are just feeling insecure and need some time to make extra sure, be mature enough to give them that time.  If they have firmly decided that, sadly, they have changed their mind for real, still allow some time to pass before calling off the wedding and making things public. Remember, this is a difficult topic and should be handled sensitively.

    Make peace with the outcome 

    After you’ve been through the process, we hope that all remains well and your partner just needed to blow off some steam. Hopefully you’re both reassured of your desires to be together and are now even more excited than ever! If, however, things take a turn for the worse and either or both of you decide not to go ahead, you will have to slowly make your peace with it. If it was your partner’s decision, there’s really nothing you can do. Remember, it might hurt now, but a divorce later on will be devastating. Surround yourself with a support system and give yourself time to heal.

    Image: Pixabay

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    In Fashion

    10 Wedding dress trends to look out for in 2020

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    ‘Royal’ and ‘classic’ were among the words used to describe the wedding dress trends we saw in 2019, but 2020 is all about new ways of interpreting a classic look and taking inspiration from the past.

    Wedding dress trends for the year ahead include everything from feathers and ruffles, to low back details and super high slits, to name a few. So for the brides planning for 2020, we know you are faced with so many choices and different styles, but we’re here to narrow those options down by presenting our favourite wedding dress trends for 2020.

    From simplistic to dramatic, these are the wedding dress trends to look out for in 2020:

    1. Capes

     

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    A post shared by Jeannelle l’Amour Bridal (@jeannelle.la.amour_bridal) on

    If there’s ever a time to be OTT, your wedding day is that day. For the more dramatic brides, their wedding day is their time to shine, which is why the cape trend is perfect for you. Bridal capes are a modern alternative to the veil with a theatrical feel. It’s glamorous, it makes a striking statement and is ideal for the bride looking to enhance her wedding dress with a touch of something different.

    2. Feathers

     

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    A post shared by Janita Toerien (@janitatoerien) on

    Inspired by the 1920’s, this feminine feather trend arrived as a new type of texture. What might appear as slightly heavy, the light-weight feather details on a wedding dress add a playful, glamorous and dimensional edge. If the dreamy, classic wedding gown or minimal sheath dress is not for you, an elaborate gown draped in feathers might just be. Feathered wedding dresses are bold and fashion-forward, yet very unique. If you are intrigued by this trend but won’t commit to a full feathered dress, choose a simpler dress with feather accents.

    3. Low back

     

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    A post shared by Robyn Roberts Bridal Studio (@robynrobertsbridal) on

    This is a sexy and statement-making wedding dress trend. A low back or backless wedding dress is a flawless balance between glamorous, modern and sophisticated, showing a bit of skin while still looking elegant. This trend is actually quite versatile because whether you prefer a structured lace or flowing dress, the backless trend can work across all styles.

    4. Tulle & ruffles

     

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    A post shared by V A G A B O N D Bridal (@vagabond_bridal) on

    For some vintage inspiration, consider a wedding dress with layers upon layers of tulle, or a full ruffled A-line skirt. The sensational bridal look has been seen before in a more subtle way,
    but in 2020 we’re hoping to see the trend kicked up a notch! A wedding dress with many layers of exaggerated tulle and ruffles is guaranteed to have all eyes on you, and will make you feel like a modern-day princess.

    5. Super high slits

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Monique Lhuillier Bride (@moniquelhuillierbride) on

    Put those legs on display! Along with low backs and plunging necklines, wedding dresses with high, sexy slits fall into the same dramatic category. A high slit is a tasteful detail that will show off your legs and is a great idea for the bride that still want a classic full-length dress with a modern and decadent edge.

    6. Sheer

     

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    A post shared by Anna Georgina (@annageorgina_bridal) on

    A bit risqué? We think not. Sheer never looked so chic, and with this trend, you can be fully covered and still have a sultry sheer illusion. There’s room for imagination while feeling sophisticated and sexy at the same time. Keep in mind that the layers on the inside of the dress will be visible, so make sure it covers and hides what it needs to. Make use of slips, beautiful lingerie, lace, 3D appliqué and a variation of materials to create lightness without showing everything.

    7. Ball gowns

     

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    A post shared by Elbeth Gillis (@elbethgillis) on

    Nothing says classic quite like a full A-line ball gown style wedding dress. This style trend is by far the most versatile as it is suited for almost any neckline and bodice,
    Whether its lace or embellishment, strapless or long sleeves, it just works across all spectrums. It is the most perfect dress style to make a grand entrance as
    you cannot miss its voluminous silhouette.

    8. Off-the-shoulder

     

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    A post shared by 메이크업상아 (@makeup_sangah) on

    Off-the-shoulder wedding dresses are a timeless trend and in 2020 it will be no different. The traditional foundational structure remains untouched but every year we see slight upgrades to the trend.

    9. Minimalism

     

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    A post shared by Made with Love Bridal (@madewithlovebridal) on

    There’s beauty in simplicity. Not all brides want their wedding dress to be dramatic and extravagant with meters upon meters of material and detail. A simple wedding dress can have a more profound impact with a subtle hint of sexiness. A minimalistic wedding dress is not limited to a silk slip or sheath dress but might just mean no lace, beading or added volume. It stands out wonderfully by creating clean lines and a sleek shape.

    10. Sparkle

     

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    A post shared by Rochelle Smith (@justanothermannequin) on

    There is nothing wrong with walking down the aisle dazzling in sparkles. For the bold and dramatic bride, a dress that shines in all its glory might just be the one for you. From glittering beads and metallic detail to embellishments and rhinestones, you’re bound to be a regal vision.

    By Amy-lee Steenkamp

    Feature image: Unsplash

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    In Planning

    Unique bouquets for the boho bride

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    Dimensional bridal bouquets are all the rage in the wedding world. When creating your bridal bouquet, opting for flowers and leaves with unique shapes and varying lengths will give you a stunningly vibrant and creative finish.

    If you want a memorable bridal bouquet, gather inspiration from these pretty posies.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B4zI08oCg89/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

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

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B6L35N7I3of/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

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

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B2u5X8iAEkZ/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

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    https://www.instagram.com/p/BxboVD3FwSG/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Image: Unsplash

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    Should you invite kids to your wedding?

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    One of the most controversial guest-list decisions you’ll make is whether or not you’re inviting kids to your wedding. On the one hand, the decision against inviting kids could cause some tension between you and your loved ones. On the other, a wedding without kids is likely to be much easier.

    There are many things to be taken into consideration when making this decision. From guest expectations to venue capacity.

    Ultimately, the decision is yours and you should do what feels right for you and your partner.

    To help you wrap your head around making this decision, here are some pros and cons of inviting kids to your wedding.

    Pros of inviting kids: 

    – Your guests with kids won’t have an issue attending

    It is common for guests to complain about a child-free wedding because they don’t have anywhere to leave their kids. Sometimes, finding a good baby-sitter can be tough, especially if the child’s grandparents are also attending the wedding. If you’re inviting guests from out of town, they won’t be familiar with any sitters in the area. Most people won’t leave their kids behind if they’re travelling either.

    By allowing kids at your wedding, you ensure that all your friends and family with kids are able to be in attendance.

    – They add to the atmosphere 

    Inviting kids to your wedding brings a playfulness that you likely wouldn’t get from your adult guests. Having children run around and giggle with joy really does add an extra touch of happiness to the special day.

    – There will be no tension 

    If you decide on having a wedding-wide ban on kids, you have to be prepared for some tension. Many people will take offense to the decision. This can be totally avoided if you allow parents to bring their kids along.

    – Your nieces and nephews can be part of the wedding 

    While kids may not always be your cup of tea, we’re sure you’re very fond of your little nieces and nephews. You may even want them to be a part of the bridal party. If your wedding doesn’t accommodate kids, this is something you’ll have to give up.

    Cons of inviting kids:

    – Kids are unpredictable 

    Kids are known for their unpredictability. They could start screaming and crying and having a full-blown temper tantrum at any moment. Additionally, they get a bit fidgety if they’re sitting still for too long. They may start running around and acting uncontrollably if they get bored. If you’d prefer to avoid the risk of having your “I do’s” interrupted, then an adults-only affair is probably better for you.

    – You will have to spend more money 

    Venue size and catering need to be taken into account. They may be little but kids still require seats and food. If your budget is tight, you may want to ensure that your adult guests are catered for first and then decide if you can afford to invite kids.

    – You’ll have to keep them busy

    Entertainment for kids and entertainment for adults are two completely different things. You will have to ensure that you have a way to keep kids busy, because for them a wedding is a very long event.

    Image: Unsplash 

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    Bride marries herself after cancelled wedding

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    You know what’s worse than being dumped? Being broken up with a week before you’re supposed to get married. This unlucky bride-to-be, however, turned her misfortune into a symbolic moment by marrying herself instead.

    Sandra Blanco, 32, from London, was left heartbroken when her fiancé broke off their engagement a week before Christmas.

    “He said he didn’t want to be with me – that was it. Apparently, he had been feeling like this even before he proposed; I was confused, devastated and in shock,” she explained in an Instagram post.

    Blanco had already begun planning their wedding, as they had settled on eloping to Las Vegas. Unfortunately, she was unable to receive refunds on anything she had booked. Rather than losing her money, Blanco decided to go forward with the wedding. Except this time, she would be marrying herself.

    “I didn’t cancel the chapel or the ceremony,” she explained. “I didn’t want to because I had something very special in mind; I decided I was going to marry myself. I know – sounds crazy, right? But it wasn’t.”

    “It was beautiful, emotional and moving; it was a ceremony where I committed to be good to and take care of myself.”

    On her wedding day, she headed out to the Little Chapel in Las Vegas, where she made a promise to herself that love would come from within. Photographer Natalie J captured the day beautifully, and male model Iain Spivey acted as the groom-to-be in the post-wedding photoshoot.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B5-smZEBvrV/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    “I’m a big fan of ‘cheesy’ and I wanted to make fun of such a situation, so I went to The Little Vegas Chapel,” she explained. “As I walked down the aisle by myself, the officiator, dressed as Elvis Presley, of course, spoke the kindest of words.”

    The officiator’s words truly drove home Sandra’s journey.

    ‘Today you planned to come here with your boyfriend, unfortunately it didn’t work out and yet you still have the courage to come here now to make a promise to yourself. It is time to fully live your life, your wild and precious life,” said the officiator. “It is time to untie the stories, distractions and illustrations that keep you small and lean into the life that is waiting for you. Time to honour your innermost values, time to be gentle with your innocent heart, time to stand firmly by what you know to be true and make a bold, lifelong commitment to love.”

    With this wedding, Blanco hopes to inspire others in similar positions and remind them that their pain is only temporary.

    “It isn’t your end; this is your beginning and life as you know it now will open new doors and opportunities for you,” she said. “You will learn better and you will choose better; opportunities that will enable you to meet someone else who loves you more than you might ever love yourself. I promise you and you deserve it.”

    Image: Instagram / Sophie and Luna

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