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    In Advice

    Your guide to the perfect wedding seating plan

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    If you’ve just made it past the potential minefield that is the guest list, here’s your next challenge: How are you going to seat everyone? Round tables? Long ones? One long banquet table? Goodness. Read on to set your mind free from all these decisions…

    1. DANCE FLOOR FIRST!
    This is your starting point. The most popular – and effective – option is to plonk your dance floor in the centre of the room. Then you’ll position the band or DJ against the wall. If your venue doesn’t allow for this, you can place the dance floor at one end of the room, centred and backed up against a wall.

    2. FIND YOUR TABLES
    Choose the shape and size of your tables – but regardless of this, make sure the two of you are in a central spot that your guests can see. Figure out how many guests fit at each table, to determine how many tables you will need.

    3. THE FLOOR PLAN
    Start with yourself and your SO – you get the best seats in the house, whether that means with the best view or closest to the bar (it’s been a long few months!) Then arrange your tables as symmetrically as possible – in a U-shape around the centre dance floor or fill one end of the space (if the dance floor is on the one side).

    4. VIPs
    Reserve the tables closest to the two of you for your immediate families, and set aside tables further from the band/DJ for older guests. The less desirable seats should be saved for your friends. Keep people together who will enjoy the time together – perhaps there are family members who haven’t seen each other in a while?

    5. THE BAR
    This will also be dependent on your venue, but as a rule of thumb, the bar should be away from the entrance to avoid possible congestion. If you have more than one bar (one bar with two bartenders for every 100 guests is a good point of measure), then position one close to the dance floor and another one on the other side of the room.

    6. ARRANGE THE NAMES
    Now that the hard work is over, how are you going to let your guests know where to sit on the day? If you have more than 75 guests, displaying their names in alphabetical order is the most convenient option, to eliminate confusion and unnecessary time spent at the seating chart. To make it more exciting, give each guest a refreshing cocktail or glass of bubbly along with their table number – it really sets the tone for a festive reception!

    ALSO SEE: How to save money on wedding flowers without sacrificing style

    How to save money on wedding flowers without sacrificing style

    Written by Claire Davies for Wedding Etc. Summer 2020

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    5 Magical wedding venues in the heart of Gauteng
    In Advice

    The shift towards later marriages

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    Once upon a time, saying “I do” in your early twenties felt like a given. Today? Not so much. South Africans are rewriting the rules of romance, choosing to marry later, more intentionally, and often with a clearer sense of self.

    ALSO SEE: The latest marriage statistics in South Africa

    The latest marriage statistics in South Africa

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    marriage
    In Advice

    The latest marriage statistics in South Africa

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    New data from Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) highlights a clear shift in South Africa’s relationship landscape: fewer people are getting married, while divorce rates are increasing, with women continuing to file for the majority of cases.

    But beyond the numbers, the data also points to something more meaningful: couples are approaching marriage with greater intention, and individuals are making more informed decisions about long-term commitment.

    Marriages continue to decline

    In 2024, South Africa recorded 102 373 marriages and unions, down 2.6% from 2023. Since 2015, marriages have decreased by 28.5%.

    Civil marriages followed the same pattern, declining to 97 510 in 2024. This steady drop suggests that many couples are choosing to marry later, taking more time before formalising their relationships.

    Divorce numbers are rising

    A total of 24 202 divorces were granted in 2024 — an 8.9% increase from the previous year.

    Women filed for 57.2% of these divorces, continuing a consistent trend. This reflects greater access to legal processes, as well as increased financial independence and decision-making power.

    Provincial breakdown

    Divorce cases initiated by women were highest in Gauteng (31.0%), followed by the Western Cape (18.6%) and KwaZulu-Natal (13.8%).

    Who is filing for divorce?

    Most women filing for divorce in 2024 were ending their first marriage (89.1%). The highest number of divorces occurred among women aged 40 to 44, followed by those aged 35 to 39.

    In most cases (70.7%), women were younger than their spouses.

    Employment and independence

    Of the women who filed for divorce, 44.6% were employed, many in professional, technical, managerial, and administrative roles. Financial stability gives individuals more control over major life decisions, including whether to stay in a marriage.

    When marriages end

    The largest share of divorces (26.7%) occurred in marriages lasting five to nine years, followed by 10 to 14 years (21.3%). Overall, 41.7% of divorces involved marriages that lasted less than a decade.

    A shift towards intentional commitment

    While the number of marriages is declining, the data suggests a move towards more considered, intentional unions. Many couples are choosing to marry later, after establishing careers and gaining life experience.

    ALSO SEE: (Don’t) put a ring on it

    (Don’t) put a ring on it

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    zendaya
    In Celebs

    Zendaya’s ‘wedding photos’ break the internet

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    When images of Zendaya and Tom Holland seemingly tying the knot began circulating online, fans didn’t hesitate to believe the fairytale. Set against the romantic stillness of Lake Como, the pictures looked convincingly real.

    There was just one catch: every single image was AI-generated.

    A viral illusion

    The photos spread like wildfire across Instagram and X, with millions liking, sharing and — crucially — believing what they were seeing. While some posts included small disclaimers labelling the images as “artistic recreations,” the detail was easy to miss in a sea of double taps.

    “They’re not real”

    Speaking on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, Zendaya addressed the moment with a kind of amused disbelief that feels very on-brand.

    While she was out in the real world, people were stopping her to gush over her “wedding photos”. Her response was simple: the images weren’t real.

    Even more surprising? It wasn’t just fans who were convinced. People in her own circle had seen the images and assumed they were legitimate, with some jokingly offended that they hadn’t been invited.

    Of course, the internet didn’t pull this narrative out of thin air. Rumours around the couple’s relationship have been quietly building for a while. Stylist Law Roach previously hinted that a wedding may have already taken place.

    Then came Paris Fashion Week, where Zendaya stepped out wearing a gold band, and suddenly speculation had something visual to latch onto.

     

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    The reality behind the romance

    Zendaya and Holland’s real-life love story began on the set of Spider-Man: Homecoming, and since then, they’ve become one of Hollywood’s most quietly adored couples.

    They’re set to reunite again in Spider-Man: Brand New Day, with more shared screen time on the horizon, including The Odyssey.

    ALSO SEE: Lily Collins reunited with her engagement ring three years after it was stolen

    Lily Collins reunited with her engagement ring three years after it was stolen

    Source: Adapted from reporting by BBC News.

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    Man makes wedding ring from own fingernails
    In Engagements

    [From the archive] Man makes wedding ring from own fingernails

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    Originally posted in 2019.

    Creativity is always encouraged and being inventive is cool. But this guy might have just taken it too far. A Japanese man collected his fingernail clippings for a year, then ground it to a powder and baked it to create a “stone” for an engagement ring. The end result is a pitch black, rock hard stone. If you didn’t know, you would probably never guess that’s it’s made from human nails.

    He created the silver band himself too, baking and filing everything from scratch, and filming the whole painstaking process. The video went viral and has over 11 million views. The internet is not quite sure how to respond, ranging from disgusted to amazed!

    We’re not sure if he actually proposed to someone with it yet, but we do think he would be a very hands-on husband.

    Picture: Youtube:/ kiwami Japan

     

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    wedding dress
    In Fashion

    Wedding dress inspo for autumn and winter brides

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    For brides tying the knot in the colder months, long-sleeved wedding dresses and chic cover-ups offer the perfect balance between style and practicality. Think sheer lace sleeves, dreamy capes and cosy knits… Pieces that not only keep you warm but add depth and drama to your overall look.

    If a strapless gown isn’t quite your vision, consider this your cue to embrace something a little more seasonally inspired. These cold-weather options prove that covering up can be just as striking – if not more so.

     

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    ALSO SEE: High-neck wedding dresses we love 

    High-neck wedding dresses we love

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    wedding content creator
    In Advice

    The rise of wedding content creators

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    Once upon a time, your wedding memories lived in a carefully curated album and a highlight video you’d eagerly wait weeks to receive. Today? Your wedding day can live online before the last glass of champagne is poured. Enter the wedding content creator — the industry’s newest (and fastest-growing) must-have.

    From TikTok-worthy transitions to candid, blink-and-you’ll-miss-it moments, this new wave of creatives is reshaping how couples experience and remember their big day. And no, it’s not just for influencers.

    What is a wedding content creator?

    A wedding content creator is a professional hired to capture your day through a social media lens. Think vertical videos, iPhone footage, behind-the-scenes snippets, and real-time storytelling.

    Unlike traditional photographers or videographers, their focus isn’t editorial perfection; it’s immediacy and authenticity. They’re there for the in-between moments: the laughter before you walk down the aisle, the outfit changes, the dance floor chaos, the quiet glances no one else notices.

    In short, they document what your guests would have posted — but better.

    Not a replacement, though

    Let’s get one thing straight: wedding content creators are not here to replace photographers or videographers.

    Your photographer captures timeless, frame-worthy images. Your videographer crafts a cinematic narrative. A content creator, on the other hand, fills in the gaps by delivering raw, unfiltered moments that feel real and deeply personal.

    It’s less about choosing one over the other, and more about building a dream team that captures your day from every angle.

    Why wedding content creators are trending

    The social media shift

    Weddings have become inherently social. From proposal announcements to “get ready with me” reels, couples are documenting every step of their journey.

    Even those who wouldn’t consider themselves content creators are now thinking in terms of shareable moments.

    And with platforms prioritising short-form video, having someone who understands trends, timing, and storytelling is invaluable.

    Instant gratification is everything

    One of the biggest appeals? Speed.

    Instead of waiting weeks (or months), couples can receive content within 24 to 48 hours. That means:

    • Posting your first wedding reel while the excitement is still fresh

    • Reliving moments almost instantly

    • Sharing highlights with guests (and those who couldn’t attend) in real time

    The beauty of the unscripted

    There’s something undeniably special about the moments that aren’t planned.

    These are the memories that often mean the most — the ones you didn’t even realise were happening.

    The rise of unplugged weddings

    More couples are opting for unplugged ceremonies, asking guests to put their phones away and be fully present.

    But that doesn’t mean missing out on candid content.

    A wedding content creator ensures everything is still captured without a sea of phones in your aisle photos.

    Is it worth it?

    The short answer? It depends on how you want to remember your wedding.

    If you love the idea of:

    • Reliving your day instantly

    • Having content ready to share

    • Capturing candid, unfiltered moments

    • Telling a more complete story

    …then a wedding content creator might just be your favourite vendor.

    Even for couples who aren’t active on social media, the appeal lies in access — having a bank of real, emotional, beautifully imperfect moments to look back on.

    ALSO SEE: Get creative with your wedding dress after the big day

    Get creative with your wedding dress after the big day

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    bachelorette party
    In Bachelorette Party

    The Hen Commandments: Dos and don’ts for planning the bachelorette party

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    Have you been tasked with arranging the all-important bachelorette party? Before you break out in hives because of the sheer immensity of the situation, read our Hen Commandments. This dos and don’ts list will ensure you throw a party that will leave the bride glowing with happiness – not fuming with anger.

    #1 Thou shalt be organised

    Set a day way in advance and give everyone enough time to arrange their lives, plan and be there (with bells on) for the bride.

    #2 Thou shalt organise a night the bride wants

    And not what you want… If the bride is a Champagne and strawberries kind of lady, don’t arrange a craft-beer tasting and hot-dog day. Or if she loves to chug back the brew, don’t get everyone together for a high tea. Be creative about your theme and activities, and make sure they reflect the bride’s personality.

    #3 Thou shalt never make the bride feel awkward

    It might be a lot of fun to dress the bride up like Borat and make her dance at a traffic light, but the whole reason for the hen party is for her to stop fretting about the wedding for a second and have a blast. You don’t want her dying of embarrassment and wishing she was folding 700 paper frogs with Aunt Margaret instead.

    #4 Thou shalt not assume the bride wants a stripper

    It’s not a bachelorette bash without some strippers! Ever heard that gem? It’s rubbish, ladies. It can leave some conservative brides in tears. Find other ways to spend the money, unless your bride has specifically requested one (or three).

    #5 Thou shalt take others’ budgets into account

    Nobody wants to feel pressured to spend more than they can afford on a night out or a weekend away. Before you make the plans, get an idea of what everyone is willing to spend on the party, and then set a budget.

    #6 Thou shalt discuss the list with the bride

    You can keep everything else a surprise, but not the guest list. If you leave out someone important, the bride will have to deal with the consequences.

    #7 Thou shalt involve others

    Yes, you might be the maid of honour and the bride’s BFF, but that’s not to say no one else can get involved in the planning. Be open to ideas and offers of help, and delegate where possible.

    #8 Thou shalt relax and enjoy thyself

    Being the person in charge can be stressful, but if you’re not enjoying yourself, neither will anyone else. Relax and let the party come together.

    #9 Thou shalt get everyone home safe

    If you’re hitting the town and painting it red, organise Ubers or a shuttle for everyone. You don’t need any drama close to the wedding.

    #10 Thou shalt not post ugly photos on Facebook

    Ban phones and any posting to Facebook or Instagram on the night, and keep any dodgy photos to yourself. Waking up with a hangover is one thing. Waking up with a hangover and your night blasted all over the ’Gram is another…

    ALSO SEE: Relaxing bachelorette party ideas for the chilled bride

    Relaxing bachelorette party ideas for the chilled bride

    Written by Claire Davies for Wedding Etc Summer 2019.

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    wedding day tips for grooms
    In Advice

    Wedding day tips for grooms to keep the big day stress-free

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    While much of the planning attention often centres on the bride, the groom has an important role to play too. A few simple preparations can help you look sharp, feel comfortable and stay calm throughout the celebration. These tips will help ensure everything runs smoothly before (and while) you say “I do”.

    Bring a spare shirt

    Weddings can be emotional, busy and sometimes warm. Between nerves, hugs and dancing, it’s easy to sweat through a shirt. Pack a second crisp shirt so you can change before the reception or photos later in the day.

    Empty your pockets

    Phones, wallets, keys and loose change can create awkward bulges in suit trousers and they will show in photos. Before the ceremony and portraits, do a quick pocket check and hand essentials to a groomsman.

    Break in your shoes

    Brand-new dress shoes might look great, but they can quickly become uncomfortable. Wear them around the house a few times before the wedding to soften the leather and avoid blisters.

    Do a full outfit trial

    Try on your entire outfit before the big day, from tie or bowtie to cufflinks and shoes. A quick dress rehearsal ensures nothing is missing and helps you feel confident getting ready on the morning of the wedding.

    Prepare your accessories

    Small details complete the look. Lay out your cufflinks, watch, belt, tie clip and pocket square the night before so you’re not rushing to find them while getting dressed.

    Practise your speech

    If you’re planning to give a speech, run through it a few times beforehand. You don’t need to memorise every word, but feeling familiar with the flow will help calm nerves and make the moment feel more natural.

    Keep a small groom kit

    A simple emergency kit can save the day. Include items like deodorant, breath mints, tissues, a lint roller and stain remover wipes and ask a groomsman to keep it nearby.

    Trim and groom ahead of time

    Schedule haircuts or beard trims two to three days before the wedding. This allows everything to settle so you look polished but natural in photos.

    Assign a trusted groomsman

    Give one groomsman the responsibility of holding essentials like the rings, vows or your phone. It keeps your pockets empty and your mind free from small worries.

    ALSO SEE: Wedding ceremony tips to know before you walk down the aisle

    Wedding ceremony tips to know before you walk down the aisle

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