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    Your make up will determine your whole look, and it’s important that it suits your personality, dress and overall theme. Here are five looks that have always been popular to give you some inspiration.

    Metallic
    This style is perfect for the rockstar-bride. Go for shades of purple, bronze and silver for a dramatic look.

    Classic
    Over the years, the classic neutral eyes with bold red lips have always been a favourite. It speaks of timeless class and sophistication.

    Smokey
    The smokey eye is a good option if you are looking to make a lasting impression. Pair it with nude lips to make your eyes pop!

    Fresh
    Depending on your skin tone, the natural, spring-inspired look will have you looking radiant.

    Contoured
    Keep up with the Kardashians who practically invented (and perfected) this edgy style.

    Picture:Pixabay

     

    South Africa’s favourite couple have officially set a date for the wedding of the year. Hector Mkansi and Nonhlanhla Soldaat are officially getting married on December 31, 2019.

    In a tweet, KFC South Africa officially announced that Hector and Nonhlanhla, who stole our hearts when they became engaged in a Vaal KFC in early November, will say ‘I Do’ on New Year’s Eve.

    The couple are already married, but because of their financial situation, they could not have the wedding they truly wanted. This time, they’re doing it big and the nation is fully behind them.

    Precious the Planner, one of the country’s top wedding planners, is already on board to plan the big day.

    Other notable businesses that have offered support include Takealot, Capfin, Kulula, Sun City Resort, Koo Food.

    Popular photographer Austin Malema has offered to be the official photographer, DJ Fresh has offered to donate a DJ set for the reception, and Zakes Bantwini has offered to perform at the wedding.

    Drum magazine has offered a two-page spread on the couple, and it is rumoured that Mzanzi Magic’s Our Perfect Wedding will capture the wedding in all its glory.

    It’s not only businesses feeling the love. People are offering to support in any way they can, from donating money to supplying cars, outfits, accessories, invites and drinks.

    If you would also like to support the happy couple, all media queries, donations and pledges can be directed to [email protected].

    Image: Twitter

    We can’t claim that groom showers are a new trend. We can, however, say that it is a trend that has seemingly slipped under the radar. Now, you may be wondering what a groom shower is, why you would want a groom shower, and how you should go about planning one. Not to worry, we’re here to give you the low down.  A groom shower, or BRO-dal shower as we’ve seen it called, may be something you want to consider.

    A groom shower, much like a bridal shower, is a celebration of the upcoming nuptials. It is an occasion for the groom to bring together all of his closest male friends and family. Guests bring gifts, there is food and drinks galore, and everyone simply comes for some good conversation and quality time with the groom-to-be before the wedding. This is much, much different to the bachelors party. It’s much more low-key and family friendly.

    Family friendly is key here; it’s what makes this event appealing. Some of your older or more conservative relatives may want to have pre-wedding celebrations with you, but you probably don’t want to invite them to the bachelor party. You may also have younger relatives like nephews or young cousins who probably would love to celebrate with you too but for obvious reasons, they wouldn’t be allowed at the bachelor party. A groom shower is how you accommodate everybody and make sure that you’re celebrating with everyone who is important to you.

    So, how do you plan this type of event?

    It’s probably best to keep it simple. You’ll have a wide variety of guests, so anything too specific or outlandish might be difficult to pull off. Fill the table with some snacks, put some decorations up, and perhaps plan some party games. Just don’t forget to invite all the relevant people.

    If you want something a bit more interactive or activity-based, here are some ideas:

    – Sports

    You could plan a sports match of some kind. Separate your guests into teams and have a soccer (or your preferred sport) tournament.

    – A cookout 

    A beer and a conversation around a fire.  A classic way to spend a relaxing day.

    – Mini fishing trip 

    Well known for its facilitation of bonding, we think a day trip to catch some fish is a great option. This one may be a bit tougher to co-ordinate.

    How ever you decide to spend the day, groom showers are a great way to include everybody in your celebrations. You may want to drop some hints to your groomsmen so they can get to organising.

    Images: Unsplash 

    We’ve seen it all. The weird, the wacky, the gorgeous and glamorous. Some people prefer subtle and understated, but not these brides. They go all out or nothing. Call it what you will, here are the some very over-the-top wedding cakes.

    I heart you
    We guess this is one way to portray romance.
     

    Mine is bigger than yours
    Bigger is better, right?

    Fairytale wedding
    We hope they lived happily ever after.

    Head over heels
    Which way is up (and how does it stay together)?

    Crystal towers
    It’s all about the bling.

    You light up my life
    We’re not saying it’s a bad thing, but this reminds us of a night light in a child’s bedroom.

    Plenty of fish in the sea
    Is the cake served with sushi?

    Image: Instagram/Pakistanibride

    For a romantic honeymoon destination, look no further than Mauritius. The Indian Ocean island has been a mainstay with South African couples for decades and it’s easy to see why. With stunning beach views and romantic activities, there is no end to the fun and flirty things to do with your significant other. Here are some must-do activities for your next island escape.

    1: Sundowners on Belle Mare Beach

    A beautiful view and your favourite person is sometimes all you need. Enjoy delicious beverages while taking in one of the island’s most picturesque beaches. With long stretches of pristine white sand, the turquoise sea and crystal clear water surrounded by large casuarina trees, you’ll round out your day on a high note.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/Bu8vN_FlBbZ/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    2: Stroll hand-in-hand through Pamplemousses Botanical Garden

    This corner of paradise is the oldest botanical garden in the southern hemisphere, which makes it a definite must-see. Marvel at the amazing collection of 85 types of palm trees, the spice garden and of course, the giant waterlillies on show at this noteworthy natural location.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BRqIFa8BrZl/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    3: Horse ride on Riemdael Beach

    Romance and horse riding go hand-in-hand. Add the beach to the equation and you’re golden. When in Mauritius, make sure to go on a scenic horseback ride with your love to make you feel like you’re the main characters in your very own romance novel.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/Bznx5B9F4-M/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    4: Explore Chamarel Waterfall

    The country’s tallest waterfall makes for a perfect daytime activity. Wade through the chilly waters with your partner while relishing in the green foliage and dense forest that surround you.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B39ziMdl06c/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    5: Sunset Catamaran Cruise

    Live a life of luxury – at least for a little while – aboard a catamaran cruise. Mauritius is best seen from the water, so you simply cannot miss this opportunity. While catamaran cruises generally run all day, going at sunset guarantees stunningly soft skies and cooler weather. It’s the perfect time to cuddle up and enjoy the best of what nature has to offer.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BzZ4tdelCvM/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    6: Helicopter tour of the ‘Underwater Waterfall’

    For a truly mesmerising view, you have to go high. This curious natural phenomenon is actually an optical illusion. Mauritius sits on an ocean shelf raised above seabed level, with a gradual slope that abruptly ends in a 4000-meter-deep abyssal drop. The movement of sand and silt on this slope causes the water to appear different colours, thus creating the effect of an underwater waterfall. What a memorable marvel to witness.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BwaGoYwHJ7I/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    7: Spend the day at Ile aux Cerfs

    Popularly known as the Treasure Island, Ile aux Cerfs is a privately-owned island home to some of the world’s best beaches. Spend the day engaging in the various water sports and beach activities offered on the island. From getting around in glass-bottom boats to snorkeling in the crystal-clear water, you and your partner will absolutely fall in love with this island.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/Bwt-8f0FxOx/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    8: Sleep under the stars

    For a romantic night, Ile Aux Cerf Golf Club is a must-stay. The resort offers their bubble lodge, an outdoor residence fitted with a lounge area, a cozy bedroom, a washroom and an open sky shower. Each unit has been tastefully decorated combining earthy tones and natural fabrics.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BzC_zbWldn9/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    9: Hike up Le Morne mountain

    A hike might not sound that romantic, but we promise it will be worth it. Once you reach the summit of Le Morne, the view of Mauritius spreading out in front of you will take your breath away.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/Bz-JCkQh61m/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    10: Witness the Coloured Earth of Chamarel

    They say that red is the colour of love, so why not go where the hue surrounds you? Seven Coloured Earths are a truly exquisite natural geological formation where rainbow-hued sand dunes undulate and settle in separate layers.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B49itBNisOI/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Image: Unsplash

    Ah, young love. Often characterised by high drama and intensity, most high school relationships aren’t built to last. This couple, however, always knew that they were meant to be. So much so that five years before they even got engaged, they wrote their wedding vows and stored them for safe keeping inside Build-a-Bears.

    Back in 2014, high school sweethearts Alyssa and Chase Smagacz went on a Valentines Day date to Build-a-Bear in celebration of their one-year anniversary. Chase had the idea that they should each write promises to the other person and stuff them inside their bears. Five years later, those exact promises became their wedding vows.

    The night before their wedding, they took turns to read the messages to each other in private at their wedding rehearsal. Then at the wedding, they read them out in front of their closest friends and family, along with a new set of vows.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B2iEjNlD2Uj/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    “Through the rough times we’ve had, we always come out stronger together. No matter what I will always love you. Through the thick & thin, good or bad, you will be the love of my life,” Chase wrote in his vows. “You make me the happiest person in the world!”

    Watch the heartwarming video below:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B3DTwBWgkM5/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    The vows, which were a complete surprise to their wedding guests, proved to Alyssa and Chase that the journey was all worth it, despite what people told them.

    “We felt very doubted in high school as everyone thinks it’s just like a relationship that’ll last through high school,” Alyssa told Good Morning America. “When we got to open (the Build-A-Bears), it was kind of like, ‘OK, we made it here.'”

    Image: Instagram / Alyssa Smagacz

    Sporting the pixie cut or the savvy bob? No stress. There is still lots to do with it! Short hair is very hot right now, and can go whichever way you want. We’ve got feminine, we’ve got glamorous, we’ve even got fun. You choose.

    Gold flecks
    These are a stunning new trend and we’re here for it. Simply spray some hair spray and stick the foil flecks on your hair to rock this look.

    Tiara
    A tiara never goes out of style and adds sparkle to any look. We love this chic look.

    Styled curls
    Curls are temperamental and depending on the style you want, be sure to try it out first. This finished look is the more put-together cousin of the messy curls and perfect for a wedding.

    Gatsby-flair
    A classic vintage look, this style goes well with glitzy hair pieces.

    Plaited
    Plaits are a beautiful addition to any look and just subtle enough to not be overpowering. You can go with plaits around your head or over your head like a head band.

    Comb-over
    For a more edgy look, the comb-over is all the rage. Sweep all your hair to one side and separate with a path. Make sure to keep the hairspray nearby!

    Picture: Pinterest

     

    In recent years, a trend has emerged where brides wear two dresses on their big day: one for their ceremony and another for the reception. However, this can become quite costly. Luckily, this inventive New Zealand-based designer developed a way around this by creating the world’s first reversible bridal collection.

    Trish Peng was inspired by one of her brides to create her new line.

    “The reversible dress idea came to life after one of my custom brides couldn’t decide between a lace or plain dress, but she knew exactly what silhouette she wanted,” Peng told Daily Mail Australia. “At her first fitting I was like, ‘why don’t we do both?! I will figure it out!’ So the idea of having two dresses in one was born. You simply flip it and reverse it, one for the ceremony, the other for the reception.”

    The 2020 Reflections collection, which first featured at New York Bridal Fashion Week in October, features 11 versatile wedding gowns to offer brides multiple dress options in one.

    “Introducing our brand new 2020 Reflections collection that features 11 reversible and versatile styles all inspired and named after our brides,” reads Peng’s website. “The gowns are available in every silhouette, they can be worn multiple ways, and you can even select your own fabric.”

    One side typically features one crepe (or any plain fabric) side and one lace (any lace) side.

    Image: Instagram / Trish Peng

    Nobody likes uninvited guests at their wedding. But what if it’s a Beluga whale? One couple was delighted when the friendly sea creature swam up to them during their aquarium wedding in Connecticut, US.

    The couple obviously love the ocean and its inhabitants, and we agree, they are beautiful. Standing beneath a dome of blue water and coral fish, this was already the perfect setting. Then one more attendant swam over to be included in the festivities.

    They had a whale of a time!

    Belugas are naturally curious like most sea mammals, and are known to have a friendly nature. And apparently, they’re really good photobombers! The internet is having a party with the picture, captioning cute comments like: ‘Something old, something new, something borrowed, something Beluga!’

    Picture: Bored Panda

     

     

    You’ve heard of miniature brides, but this one is pretty paw-some. Although it’s generally considered disrespectful to wear white to a wedding, this bride made a special exception for her cute little pup.

    They say that dogs are man’s best friend, so why not include them in your wedding? That’s the exact thought New York-based bride Jennifer Hindieh, now Najman, and her then-fiancé Alexander Najman had. Their family of three was made when they adopted their adorable pit bull Bailey, who has since been there for every important moment in their lives.

    “She’s pretty much my little partner in crime, my best friend, like our kid. She completely changed our lives from the day we adopted her,” Jennifer told I Love Dogs. “We love giving her the best life she can have and wouldn’t feel right not having her be a part of our wedding.”

    So when wedding planning came around, they decided that Bailey should match her mom in a wedding dress of her own. Bailey’s custom made wedding dress was ordered from Etsy, and featured a ruffle skirt with diamante applique.

    “I decided to get her a dress because honestly, she is my family, my baby and our life with her is what makes every day so special,” Jennifer told The Dodo.

    Bailey looked absolutely adorable as she walked down the aisle alongside her mom. We’re sure the wedding was a barking good time.

    Image: Instagram / baileythehousehippo