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    In Fashion

    The sustainable bride and what she’s wearing

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    Social trends are moving towards sustainability, therefore directly impacting the way we think about the environment around us. These trends have become more apparent as we are consciously making decisions about what we put in our bodies, as well as where we buy our clothes. This growing awareness has changed the way we see waste and pushed us into being more aware of recycling, repurposing, biodegradable elements and ethically sourced products.

    Subsequently, the idea of sustainability has trickled down into weddings. Thanks to the popularity of conscious fashion, there has been a burst of innovations, fashion brands and accessibility. As a result, brides are offered a variety of options in the hunt for the perfect wedding dress. Many well-known designers now offer women a sustainable collection or range, and we believe that it’s only the beginning.

    Below are a few stand-out designers and why we love them:

    Stella McCartney

     

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    Stella is known for her work in sustainability and being at the forefront of a conscious movement. The designer has launched a vegan-friendly, eco-friendly bridal collection, with designs that are effortless and beautiful, while still keeping with the iconic ‘Stella’ aesthetic. Stella’s first bridal collection ranges from lace, chiffon to couture fabrics.

    Reformation

     

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    A California based clothing brand that pioneers the ethos of sustainability. Reformation creates beautiful silhouettes for every size, complemented with eco-friendly fabrics. The brand uses deadstock fabrics and repurposed vintage clothing that allows for a truly unique design.

    Lunar Life

     

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    The South African based fashion and lifestyle brand is headed by two powerhouse ladies and has a design aesthetic that is inspired by nature, while their use of materials is a mindful expression of the core brand values. For the bride that seeks a touch of uniqueness on her wedding day, Lunar Life might be your winner.

    Minna

     

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    A post shared by Indiebride London (@indiebride.london) on

    At Minna, also known as Indiebride London, dresses are made to order, which means the fit and shape of the dress is completely perfected to suit your body. Indiebride’s aesthetics are simple and classic – they play on the theme of bohemian chic. The brand offers in-house handcrafted dresses which promote artisans and encourages brides to work hand-in-hand with the artisan creating their dress. Materials are seen as precious and little to no waste is made, so off-cuts are often donated to students or organizations.

    Deborah Lindquist

     

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    A post shared by Deborah Lindquist (@deborahlindquist) on

    Deborah Lindquist gowns are for style-savvy, but eco-conscious brides. Garments are created from a mixture of vintage/upcycled, organic fabrics and each creation is unique and limited. Deborah has designed gowns for celebrities such as Sharon Stone, Pink, Jessica Alba and Rihanna. Will you be next?

    By Mia Smith

    Feature image: Instagram / Reformation

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    In Advice

    The pros and cons of having a barn wedding

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    Have you always dreamed of having your wedding out in the farmlands? If so, you should consider looking into using a barn as your wedding venue. Barn weddings are perfect if you would like to have a rustic theme as you get the rural vibe in an indoor setting.

    The location

    If you are renting out a barn on a working farm, the cost will not be that high and the barn will be a blank canvas for you to decorate however you like. However, this means that you will have to rent all furniture and decor items which will bring the cost up. Another issue with the barn being on a working farm is that it is not fit to accommodate a large number of people and there will not be bathrooms nearby unless you rent.

    While a barn wedding is beautiful, the work that goes into getting it ready to be used as a wedding venue could be a bit much. What many farm owners have done is actually renovate their barns to turn it into a wedding venue. This means that there will be all the basic necessities needed but the price might be significantly higher.

     

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    A post shared by Rosemary Ridge Event Venue (@rosemaryridgeeventvenue) on

    The vibe

    What is great about this location is that it is an escape from city life and it manages to bring the outdoors in while still providing shelter and ambience. You can decorate elegantly or keep it casual. If the barn is on a working farm, it could have been used to house animals up until a day or two before your event and you will therefore need to work hard to get it cleaned so that guests with allergies don’t have any issues, and also to get rid of the smell of farm animals.

     

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    A post shared by Wedding Photographer UK, Notts (@magdakphotography) on

    The logistics

    Due to the fact that this is not specifically a wedding venue, there won’t be electrical outlets or plumbing which is a necessity for vendors. The venue won’t be climate controlled meaning that if your wedding is being held during the summer months, it will get very hot or if it’s in winter, very cold.

    Parking is another factor to consider, while there will be space for guests to park on the grass, if you’d like to have your ceremony outside of the barn, the cars could take up valuable space.

     

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    A post shared by K & M Barn at Lewis Farm (@kmbarnlewisfarm) on

     

    Feature image: Unsplash

     

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    In Fashion

    Unique bowties for the stylish groom

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    Accessories make the look. A simple touch can take your outfit from drab to fab. Typically, men’s wedding suits are quite basic so the key in personalising the look comes with accessories. Bowties, boutonnieres and cufflinks are small ways to make a big difference. However, you don’t want to be basic. As a stylish man, your outfit should reflect that. Take some risks with these unique bowties.

    Florals:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BXBVmQ9gmvK/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Chains:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B0vf_LggzKg/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Two-toned:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B4Qxe8qHOba/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Laser-cut:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B3uaKH0I9Kb/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Woodwork:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B2QF4XWHRvP/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Oilslick:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BXBWR7kFAGK/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Victorian:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BU8s_pWFNkU/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Merman:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/tvgRZtJr98/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Velvet:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/Bo8CBN-ArQr/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Pearled perfection:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B1bHFTkozDl/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Quill feathers:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BmT2YxpBYZ-/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Image: Unsplash

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    In Fashion

    Stunning bridal hair pieces

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    Many brides throughout the ages have adorned themselves with hair pieces. You can sport a hair piece whether you wear a veil or not. From tiaras to hats to flowers, the world is your oyster. These days, though, many brides opt for delicate accessories. Here are some options to consider.

    Thin head band

    Head bands have been in style for years, but now, dainty is the new extra. Go with feminine, delicate pieces for a softer look.
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    Tiara

    All women wear crowns. On your wedding day, you get to make yours visible to the world! Gold is very in right now, and we love this Shakespearian feel.

    Pearl hair clips

    Diamonds are a girl’s best friend, but pearls are for a lady. We absolutely fawn over this ethereal piece.

    Floral

    Flowers are perfect for a spring or summer wedding. This garland is the epitome of class and also adds a splash of colour.

    Full head piece

    If you’re really into head accessories, maybe go all out with a full head piece. It can be delicate and subtle, instead of the heavy laden, jewel-encrusted pieces of the past.

    Picture: Pexels

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    In Weddings

    Royal wedding traditions

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    If you thought planning your own wedding was tough, imagine throwing a royal one! The British royal family is all about tradition and their weddings are no different. From Queen Victoria to Harry and Meghan, these royal customs have stood the test of time.

    Proposal approval:

    Royals must be incredibly selective with who they choose to marry. The Royal Marriages Act of 1772 stipulated that all royal descendants had to seek blessing from the sovereign before proposing. The act was created to prevent unsuitable marriages that could diminish the status of the royal house. This drew much criticism over the years, and was repealed in 2011. The 2013 Succession to the Crown Act now orders that the first six people in the line of succession must receive permission from the sovereign to marry.

    To take things even further, the 1701 Act of Settlement was passed to settle the succession to the English and Irish crowns on Protestants only. This Act also stipulated that no Roman Catholic, nor anyone married to a Roman Catholic, could hold the Crown. Essentially, royals could not marry anyone of the Roman Catholic faith if they wanted to keep their place in line for the throne. Luckily, this provision was changed in 2015.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BQKXffNh3Uv/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Wedding rings of Welsh Gold:

    Queen Elizabeth I, Queen Elizabeth II, Princess Margaret, Princess Anne, and Princess Diana’s wedding rings were all fashioned from the same nugget of Welsh gold which came from a Welsh mine, Clogau St David’s at Bontddu. This gold is more valuable than gold from Australia or South Africa.

    While there is only a sliver of the original gold left over, the Queen owns a large nugget of 21 carat Welsh gold which is held by the Crown Jewellers to be used for the royal wedding rings of today. Sarah, Duchess of York, Duchess Kate, and Duchess Meghan Markle all sport wedding bands made from this nugget.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/Bzf8otJFkam/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    A sprig of myrtle

    From Her Majesty The Queen to The Duchess of Cambridge and The Duchess of Sussex, a sprig of myrtle has featured in multiple royal bouquets over the decades. Myrtle represents love, fertility and innocence, and first appeared in the bouquet of Queen Victoria back in 1840.

    Following her wedding, Queen Victoria planted a myrtle shrub in her garden at the Osborne House on the Isle of Wight. Since then, every British royal bride has plucked a sprig from this very bush to place in her bridal bouquet.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BSyr29LBw9w/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Laying the bouquet at the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior:

    This tradition was started by Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, almost a century ago. As she entered Westminster Abbey on the day of her wedding, the Queen Mother stopped to lay her floral bouquet at the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior in a gesture of remembrance for her late brother, who died at the Battle of Loos in 1915. She also did this to honour the millions of others killed and injured in World War I. She then continued to walk down the aisle sans bouquet.

    Since this day, many other royal brides have followed in her footsteps. The only difference is that they lay their bouquets down after the ceremony, not before. Most recently, Duchess of Sussex Meghan laid her flowers on the tomb as she left the church.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BorO7D4HSN5/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Orange blossom:

    Queen Victoria was truly influential in shaping modern royal weddings. For her 1840 marriage to Price Albert she chose to wear a wreath of orange blossoms in lieu of a tiara. The orange blossoms were meant to symbolise chastity.

    Many royal brides have since followed suit and incorporated the star-shaped orange blossom into their bridal attire, including Princess Victoria, Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Beatrice.

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

    Official photographs:

    Official portraits have been a long standing tradition for the British monarchy. Following the introduction of photography, King Edward VII and Queen Alexandra were the first to test out this new technology after their 1863 ceremony. Many royal couples would also share their wedding portraits as postcards for members of the public to purchase.

    Since then, we have seen numerous official wedding portraits from famous British royalty such as Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip, Prince Charles and Princess Diana, and the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/Bio3WR_AlRP/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    The wedding and reception:

    Royal weddings are often star-studded events. Fellow royals, foreign leaders, church officials, diplomats, and celebrities are often spotted at these occasions.

    The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, however, went against tradition and did not invite any foreign leaders to remain neutral.

    British royal weddings are typically held at noon, followed by a post-reception luncheon, which is essentially just a seated brunch hosted by the Queen. Both Prince William and Kate and Prince Harry and Meghan had two receptions: the luncheon and a private dinner/party.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/Bi-EhaxgJ8E/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Image: Instagram / Kensington Royal

     

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    In Advice

    Hors d’oeuvre ideas your guests will love

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    All you need is love and food. Your wedding should offer both. Cocktail hour is a crucial time for guests to whet their appetites before they sit down for the wedding feast.

    Typically running after the ceremony, cocktail hour is a perfect time for guest to mingle while enjoying some delicious dishes. Beyond just lining stomachs, it sets the tone for the rest of the evening. Whether you want to go big with fancy finger foods or prefer the more modest morsel, these appetisers are sure to get your mouth watering.

    Pretzels:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/Bz0pnJAHhBz/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Popcorn:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BgBlTX5H8Ln/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Feta and watermelon skewers:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/Bk0JlUeljRz/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Charcuterie:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B3zTic4l7-7/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Ice-lollies:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B3cqlyzBRa_/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Mini-tacos: 

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B1wvK1BFEff/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Fries:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B2mSCe-ja_C/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Crostini:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B18M0xUg7xk/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Fish fingers:

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

    Chicken skewers:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B1n-02XAeJc/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Sliders:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/Bqy2zNeH3H_/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Milk and cookies:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B2iyrQkByz8/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Arancini pops:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B0-j3IMhM7H/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Image: Unsplash

     

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    In Advice

    Have a fabulous staycation honeymoon

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    We all know how expensive weddings and honeymoons can be. As amazing as your big day might have been, your bank account will probably not love you for it. There’s no pressure to go away and have an expensive honeymoon. Whatever decision is right for your budget, will be the right one for your future, no matter what others say. You can always have that grand trip later.

    In the meantime, there’s no reason you can’t still celebrate your new life together right where you are in a budget-friendly way. Take a day or a weekend off to spend some time together. Here are some great ideas. Choose your fave or combine them all!

    Feast on love

    Picnics are super fun and a great way to get creative, since you can plan exactly what you want to pack. Grab a comfy blanket and set it up anywhere you like. A pretty park, botanical garden, a riverside and the beach are all great options. It might be nice to choose a theme, for example Greek food. Alternatively, just pack your favourite snacks and drinks!

     

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    A post shared by Dimpi Sanghvi (@dimpisanghvi_ws) on

    Spa day

    After all that wedding stress, you both deserve some relaxation. Spa’s are excellent for some spoiling and usually have couple’s activities you can do together. Couple’s massages, facials or saunas good options. If that’s a stretch on your budget, the easiest thing on earth is to have a spa day at home! Get some lovely pamper products and give each other massages, followed by a steamy bubblebath…

     

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    A post shared by Baraa – Dietitian & Trainer (@baraaelsabbagh) on

    Camp in the backyard

    Now, we know what you think: This is just for kids. No, it absolutely is not! Depending on your backyard, you can have a whole weekend getaway all outdoors. Pitch that tent, roll out the sleeping bags and roast marshmallows around the campfire. If you don’t have a backyard, there’s bound to be some camping spots near you, and they’re usually quite affordable.

     

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    A post shared by Danielle (@ugly_cat_sweaters) on

    Hike

    There’s nothing like watching the sun rise with a spectacular view. If you’re an active couple, check out some nice hiking routes and lace up to get a fresh perspective!

     

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    A post shared by Nina Laski (@ninalaski) on

    Wine tasting 

    If your tastebuds tickle at the sound of wine tasting, this one’s for you. Most wine farms have beautiful surroundings that are perfect contributions to a romantic atmosphere. Of course, you can swop it out for beer tasting, gin tasting or anything else you prefer.

     

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    A post shared by Roksana | WINE & INSPIRATION (@wineroks) on

    Candle-lit dinner and stargazing 

    Ah, the magic of candles. For some reason, candle-lit dinners just never go out of style. For this one, you could either go to a cosy restaurant or consider cooking together and setting up a nice dinner table at home. After dinner, spread a blanket and gaze at the stars if the night is clear. Cuddle up close and dream about your future together.

     

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    A post shared by WE LOVE ADVENTURES (@welove.adventures) on

    Image: Pexels

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    In Emotional

    Widow honours late husband with annual photoshoot

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    When we marry, its with the intention of being with someone forever. But for some, that forever is cut short at the blink of an eye. Such is the story of Vanessa Lanktree and her late husband and best friend, high school sweetheart Eric. Years after his passing, Vanessa honours her late husband in a touching annual photoshoot.

    Canadians Vanessa and Eric met back in 2006 when they were still in high school. They fell in love, and in 2011,  firefighter Eric proposed to Vanessa on Christmas Eve.

    “He was my first boyfriend, my first love,” Vanessa told SWNS. “Our relationship through the years was so strong because it started so young. I had no doubt about our lives together.”

    They married on September 8, 2012 in a beautiful church ceremony.

    “As I walked down the aisle with my dad, Eric was bawling his eyes out,” she said. “I already knew I wanted to marry him but when I saw him crying, I thought how lucky I was.”

    Credit: Vanessa Lanktree

    Two years after their wedding, however, tragedy struck. Eric was killed in a head-on collision with a truck in November 2014  while he was making his way home from a vacation in Vegas. He passed away soon after the impact, before Vanessa could even make it to the hospital.

    “I felt like I was the only one at that age that had lost somebody that young like their husband,” she told CBC News. “Our lives had just started — it takes time to finally feel like you’re not in a cloud anymore.”

    Years later, on the day after what would have been the couple’s four year anniversary, Vanessa suddenly decided to don her wedding dress again. In her dress, she danced around her kitchen to their wedding song, Keith Urban’s “Making Memories Of Us”. Putting her dress on again was a cathartic experience, one that soon became an annual tradition.

    “It has felt so good to put my dress on,” Lanktree told CBC News. “I love putting it on and just felt good and I felt good in it that day and I still feel good.”

    “Grief doesn’t go away but somehow you find little things to help you cope, like putting on your dress,” she said to SWNS. “Most people get to go out with their husband for supper or a date night on their anniversary, and this is my thing that I get to do without him.”

    Putting her dress on became a symbol of an incredible relationship and marriage, and a way to honour their time together. Vanessa says that she will most likely do this yearly for the rest of her life.

    She has since found love again and her boyfriend, Kurtis Isbister, is very supportive. This year, he took pictures of her in her wedding dress whilst in a sunflower field.

    Credit: Vanessa Linktree

    Vanessa hopes that this tradition inspires others to deal with their grief and live their life to the fullest.

    “Eric would have wanted me to continue on with life and find some happiness somewhere,” Lanktree said. “The thing is to somehow find a way that you can honour that person. You can still find a little bit of happiness.”

     

    Image: Vanessa Lanktree

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    In Engagements

    Boks-inspired proposal fail

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    The Rugby World Cup fever overtook us all these past few weeks. One South African in particular was feeling the spirit, and made a big promise. A single Facebook post gripped the nation for days to find out how this fairytale would end.

    Last week, Brian Royalson Mdunge took to Facebook and posted on the group #ImStaying to announce that he would propose if the Springboks won the 2019 Rugby World Cup.

    As we know by now, the Boks won the sports competition, bringing pride to the South African nation. This also meant that Brian had to hold up his end of the bargain.

    Following the win, many waited in anticipation to hear the happy news of another engaged couple. However, no news came. For days, we were left with no updates, leading to the trending of #FindBrian.

    “BRIAN!!!!!!!!! HALLOOOOO!!!!!! THE NATION IS WAITING IN ANTICIPATION!!!!! You had 24 hours to man up,” one comment read.

    Brian has just broken his silence, although unfortunately it was not with good news.

    “Hello Mzansi sorry to keep you waiting so long, but the lady rejected my proposal in front of my friends she said she’s not ready. I’m too embarrassed,” Brian wrote in his post.

    Group members have rallied to support Brian through this tough time, sending him many words of encouragement.

    “I’m so sad to read this news, ” reads one comment. “But she did not altogether say No. So hang in there, should your spirit tell you she’s worth waiting for. Amen. You stay blessed. Mwaj”

    “Sorry Brian … She’s not ready now, if her unreadiness has to do with you, work on that… If not, give her time… She rejected the proposal, Not you! All the best bro..” another advised.

     

    Image: Unsplash

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    In Fashion

    Dresses we love: Bohemian gowns

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    Not everyone loves glitz and glam. If you’re an earth-child and love boho fashion, consider going for one of these fun and flowy wedding dresses that have us swooning.

    Colourful

    Bohemian themes are known for wild splashes of rich colour. If that’s you, don’t hold back.

     

    White

    If you prefer white, these options are great. Cream, off-white and beige work well too.

    Crocheted

    This lovely patterned dress adds an old-time feel.

    Short

    It’s a risk we’re willing to take.

    Caftan

    Embrace your inner free-spirit with this fit.

    Picture:Instagram/monika.okon.photo

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