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    When it comes to wedding decor, your seating chart is one of the most practical aspects. However, it does not have to be a boring one. Once you have settled on your final seating arrangements, you can start to have fun with the display.

    Many couples have taken to using their seating charts as another focal point in their wedding. As one of the first things guests will see as they enter, you want them to get the theme immediately.

    Whether your wedding theme is glamorous, rustic, minimalist or art deco, there is a fun and unique seating chart for you. Here are some fun and different wedding seating chart ideas.

    Quirky:

    Want to have some fun with your wedding? Get punny! This simple yet striking sign adds personality to an event that can be very formal at times. Incorporate flowers and fruit for a dynamic and fresh take on the traditional seating chart.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B2fU11og8hG/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Mismatched frames:

    For a dynamic seating chart perfect for garden weddings, consider using mismatched frames. Mirrors, photo frames and chalkboards provide a beautiful farmhouse feel with a touch of glamour.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B37Rb0XITDN/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Leather:

    If you’re into the rustic farmhouse style then you will love this seating chart! This creative chart makes use of brown leather cloth hung up on a rose gold frame as a seating chart. With simple script and no other decor, this chart maintains a minimalist yet striking look.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B097P6zDJr3/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Linen banner:

    This one is for the minimalist bride. If you’re not into frills and fancies, consider making use of a linen banner for your seating chart. We love how simplistic yet powerful this chart looks.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/Bzsivc3IWSg/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Bottles:

    If you love a particular beverage, why not include it in your wedding decor? Make use of glass bottles, with all stickers removed, as a seating chart. Each bottle represents a different table. For added decor, place baby’s breath flowers inside the bottle.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B16KybAiGii/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Wood stumps:

    Lovers of the outdoors can show their passion with these wooden stump charts! Soften the look with an array of flowers and an antique mirror.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B3nLQMBIAb6/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Delicious Monster:

    Greenery has been having a moment in decor for a long time, and it is not going anywhere. Use single leaves of Delicious Monster with gold lettering to guide your guests to their seats.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B3zkmUKAG7S/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Records:

    Use old records for a pun-intended take on seating charts. Have the table numbers and guest names written in the middle of the record. We promise it will get your wedding started on the right note!

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B30INF1Bual/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Perspex:

    For a glamorous yet classic look, make use of perspex stands with floral bouquets inside. Because the flowers can be quite busy, make use of simple block lettering.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B30wCzCl9s8/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Monopoly:

    This Monopoly-inspired seating chart adds a dose of whimsy to a wedding. Encourage your guests to  “Collect canapes as you pass Go ,” sip on some  “Free drinks” and “Go to the Dance Floor”.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B3716Mon67F/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Picture: Unsplash

    The entertainment world is shocked after an Instagram post by famous rap artist Nicki Minaj hinted at a secret wedding. Minaj has been dating rapper Kenneth Petty for almost a year now and fans are going crazy over this surprising post showing hats which read “bride” and “groom” and mugs that read “Mr.” and “Mrs.”

    The caption, dated yesterday, read “Onika Tanya Maraj-Petty 10.21.19”, and led viewers to assume that the two recently got legally married. Several celebrities commented on the Minaj’s post, offering their congratulations.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    ???????? Onika Tanya Maraj-Petty 10•21•19

    A post shared by Barbie (@nickiminaj) on

    However, some are wary about the post, not wanting to get excited too soon. The singer never actually officially confirmed the marriage, and some might argue that Minaj, who is known for flamboyant fashion statements, would never get married without a huge ceremony and an outfit to match.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    My nigga home now he da Clyde to my Bonnie ??

    A post shared by Barbie (@nickiminaj) on

    Nicki reportedly told Queen Radio in August that they will be married, but that “I have to work on my album and I have a lot to focus on that I don’t want to do the big wedding now. We’ll do the big wedding later.”
    Well, we are keeping our eyes on the media, and time will tell.
    Picture: Instagram / Nicki Minaj

    Recent wedding trends have focused on dramatic, colourful and opulent finishes. However, it is not for everyone. Many couples are drawn to simplistic finishes. You don’t always need tonnes of decor to make a statement.

    The minimalist trend is all about less-is-more. Think neutral colours, natural fabrics, organic elements, accent metals and lots of glass pieces. Clean lines and key pieces create a sophisticated look perfect for weddings.

    Minimalist wedding decor directs attention to where it should be: the newlyweds. Here is some decor inspiration that prove that there is beauty in simplicity.

    Invitations:

    Quality white paper and simple black script are a perfect pair. Add flair with some dried botanicals and a unique letter stamp.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B3zH5MKFPl6/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Welcome sign:

    Welcome your guests in perfect minimalist style. Your welcome sign can feature lots of blank space and minimal words to achieve this simple yet striking finish.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B3V-2azAoBi/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Venue:

    High ceilings, exposed wood and white walls work best for a minimalist wedding venue. We love how just some string lights and greenery take this venue from drab to fab.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B2D4OvCnB1A/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Backdrop:

    For a beautiful yet simple photo backdrop, consider a wall of hanging lights. Your images will be stunningly and romantically lit, and its very affordable.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B3au7IYBYGt/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Seating arrangements:

    Fabric banners are wonderfully minimalist. Use simple lettering, shapes and blank spaces to get the look.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/Bzsivc3IWSg/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Seating numbers:

    If you’re having multiple tables, let your guests know the number with these minimalist table signs. A clear card with block lettering works very well for this theme.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B32pdoslTk6/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Sweetheart table:

    Minimalism does not have to be boring! With just a few candles, flowers and a frame, this sweetheart table has achieved picturesque perfection. The flowers add a softness to the angular frame that dominates the table, giving a great balance to the overall effect.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B3eecPNnZxU/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Table arrangements:

    Long tables work best for a minimalist wedding. Decorate them with white candles, and dried botanicals to achieve this simplistic yet stunning look.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B3A-eCajFOR/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Plating:

    Simple, white plating is all you need for a minimalist wedding. Have some fun with the menu by using curlycue scripts.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B3tUul9DtCt/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Table decor:

    Place single leaves of greenery in modern terrariums or vases for some minimalist decoration. These table decorations are soft yet modern, creating a wonderful juxtaposition.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B3xF8ongqRA/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Signage:

    A natural linen banner makes for perfect signage. Print a short slogan on the banner for some simplistic decor.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B3Xnvm5Fhy5/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Cake:

    Cakes have become very extravagant in recent years. Take it back to simplicity with this minimalist design. We love how they incorporated a simple vine into this layered cake.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BE910O-Q0aP/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Picture: Unsplash

    Having your wedding ceremony in a church or House of Worship is a beautiful thing for couples who feel connected to their religion and would like to keep religion in their marriage. Since the ceremony is in a religious setting, you will be bound by certain rules that govern the building.

    The location

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by New Orleans Wedding Florist (@bellabloomsfloral) on

    Churches and Houses of Worship are designed to house lots of people meaning there will be more than enough seating for your guests. Since it is indoors, you will not have to worry about the weather on the day of the ceremony. There will most likely be musical instruments that can be used during the ceremony however you might be only be allowed to play songs that are approved by the church.

    The ceremony will certainly be traditional but it might not feel very personal as you might not be able to bring in your own decor and make the place unique to you.

    The cost

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Jodie Cooling Photography (@jodiecoolingphotography) on

    While the cost to have your ceremony in a Church is relatively low, you will end up having to pay for another location if you are wanting to have a reception after the ceremony. You also might be charged more for guests who are not members of the church.

    An officiant will be included in the price which is also a bit of a save but you will not be able to choose your officiant as it will be whoever is available on the day. This can be very upsetting if you want to be married by the same person who married your parents.

    The pictures

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Couple Photography (@couple_photography_) on

    Despite the fact that you are limited in terms of decor, Churches are already made beautiful and so it will be a classic backdrop for your wedding photographs. The only problem that could occur is that your photos might only be from one or two angles as the photographer might not be allowed to move around the room as he/she sees fit. There is also the possibility that the Church does not allow flash inside so unless the Church has lots of windows and natural lighting, the photographs from your special day might not turn out as well as you’d hoped.

    If you want your wedding to be classic and traditional, then the limitations that come with a Church wedding won’t bother you. If you’re looking for something unique, maybe find another location.

    Picture: Unsplash

    World-famous tennis player Rafael Nadal got hitched this weekend and his bride followed what seems to be the latest trend among the rich and royal: She wore two wedding dresses.

    The sport star’s girlfriend of 14 years, Mery Perello, looked absolutely gorgeous in a long sleeved gown designed by Rosa Clara for their ceremony. Her second dress (by the same designer), supposedly worn to the reception, strongly resembles the halter neck worn by the Duchess of Sussex Meghan Markle to her own reception.

    The couple was married on the Spanish island of Majorca this past weekend. As well as images of the first wedding dress, a sketch of the second dress was released. The first dress had an intricate lace bodice, and Clara described to Hello! that is was “made of beautiful Art Deco-inspired French lace with delicate patterning, flower motifs and microbeading on the meticulously hand-embroidered fabric. The ballgown-style skirt, made of silk crepe, featured a weightless detachable train.”

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Edna.bg (@ednabgofficial) on

    The second dress was just as elegant but more form-fitting and had an open back. It also featured embellishments all over, giving a sultry, glamorous look.

    The second dress.

    The wedding venue was no less exquisite than the dresses, being held at a 17th-century fortress known as La Fortaleza. Surrounded by ocean views, it served as both the ceremony and reception venue. It’s obviously perfect for pictures, and we can’t wait until the official photos are released.

    Credit: The Daily Mail

    Picture: Hello!

    So, your heart is fluttering and your mind has one ever-present thought: you’ve found the love of your life, the person you want to spend the rest of your life with. Wow! Now you need to think about popping the big question.

    Cape Town has plenty of romantic destinations for getting down on one knee to ask this all-important question.Whether it’s a beautiful vineyard or a stunning restaurant with a view, the Mother City has it all.

    Briony Brookes, Communications and PR Manager for Cape Town Tourism, shares her thoughts about the best spots for a romantic proposal to your loved one.

    Signal Hill:

    Signal Hill, with its panoramic views of the city, the ocean and the mountains, is a wonderful spot for watching a stunning Cape Town sunset. With a glass of bubbly in hand, it lends itself to being among the most romantic places to pop the big question. But, if this is your choice of location for the marriage proposal, arrive early so that you can select the best spot – before you are crowded out by the many other couples spending a romantic few hours together.

    Sweeping views of Cape Town from up high will get anybody inspired and happy. Credit: Instagram / ThaFunkJunkie

     

    Dash Restaurant & Bar:

    Smooth, soulful live jazz from Thursday to Saturday, elegant and chic decor and a panoramic backdrop of Table Mountain lit up in all its glory beneath a starry summer sky. This is the perfect location for an exclusive, romantic soiree. Dash Restaurant and Bar at the prestigious Queen Victoria Hotel is intimate while also being within the V&A Waterfront precinct. Arrive early and watch the sunset from the terrace before diving into their colourful new menu blending classic French and cultural Cape Malay-inspired cuisine. The restaurant is an idyllic setting for a special evening, such as when you’re asking for your partner’s hand.

    Dash restaurant. Credit: supplied

    Chapmans Peak Drive:

    Chapmans Peak Drive, or simply Chappies, is the Godfather of scenic drives in Cape Town. With the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Constantiaberg Mountains on the other, this road is an absolute joy to cruise down. There are also look-out spots and over 50 picnic spots along the road. So, when it comes to proposing, Chappies is undeniably one of the top spots.

    The view at sunset makes for a romantic atmosphere. Credit :supplied

    Cape Point Nature Reserve:

    If you’re looking for applause and a few damp eyes from inquisitive onlookers, then head for the top and pop the question alongside the iconic black and white old lighthouse at Cape Point. The dramatic views are unforgettable, and you will have the support and encouragement of a large audience of tourists making the trek to the top. What could be more meaningful than being congratulated in languages from all over the world?

    Cape Point offers scenic views for a perfect backdrop. Credit: supplied

    Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden:

    If your partner loves beautiful gardens and a romantic picnic, then Kirstenbosch will take their breath away! The meandering pathways and green areas lined with indigenous fynbos vegetation make for the perfect spot to lay down your picnic blanket and pop some bubbly (and the big question). Enjoy the incredible views from the Boomslang Canopy Walkway as you take a romantic walk together. With all this beauty and romance your partner will surely say yes!

    The beauty of nature will provide a romantic, stunning location for your proposal. Credit: supplied

     

    Picture: Unsplash

    Your wedding day is the biggest, happiest day of your life. You want it to be extra special and leave a lasting impression. Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to do anything bizarre or expensive to make your day beautiful. These clever and unique ideas with pieces from FF Decor expertly set up by Spectacular Occasions will make yours a wedding to remember. Here are some things to try.

    1. Fairy light dome

    Fairy lights are nothing new, but the way you set it up makes all the difference. If you have an outdoor wedding, draping the lights in a dome or rectangular hallway structure will create an enchanted forest-atmosphere.

    2. Shaped menu

    The menu is important so guests know what they’re being served, but sometimes the tables are already so full, you don’t want anything extra to crowd the space. Why not cut the menu in a perfect circle to fit inside the plate? Problem solved.

    3.  Extended table decor

    The table decor make a big contribution towards the overall theme and setting. It should enhance the aesthetics and there’s no reason why it can’t continue when the table ends. If you have floor space, use it for your table decorations as well and let the magic continue.

    4. Block colours

    Having one colour at your wedding is so last season. But beware of getting trigger happy (unless crazy colours are all you. In that case, go for it!). If you have one or two colours or tones you are going with, but you feel like it just needs that little something, add one block colour (the colour opposite your main colour on the colour wheel). This will have an eye catching and interesting effect.

    5. Elevated cake

    To top it all off, the cake is always the cherry on top. There are numerous ways to make this even more spectacular by using decor pieces. How about this suspended cake? The wooden plank adds an earthy touch and places this marvellous artwork up high for all to see.

    Don’t settle for anything less than the perfect decor. The sky is the limit.

    Vendors used in images:

    Location: Toadbury Hall
    Photographer: Leigh Benson
    Make up: Amy Sprawson
    Hair:
    Rhode Truter
    Décor: Spectacular Occasions
    Lighting: Draping designs by FF Decor
    Flowers: The Bloom Room
    Dress 1: Fynbos Bridal Boutique
    Dress 2: Johan Botha Fashion Design
    Cake: Kelly Jane Cakes
    Stationery: Trendy Settings Paperworks

    Pictures: Supplied

    An Australian couple tied the knot this weekend, 60 years after they first got engaged, proving that love never truly dies.

    Tom Susans, 87, and Judith Beston, 80, first met in 1957 at a Brisbane-based teachers training college and within two years they became engaged. At the time, however, the marriage was not meant to be. In 1959, Tom started a teaching job in Beaudesert, Queensland while Judith moved back home to Redcliffe, Brisbane with the intention of them getting married and starting their life there. Her family, however, were not supportive of the engagement.

    “I thought ‘this is good, I can get married here and Mum can help me a bit’, but at home it was really difficult,” Judith told ABC news.

    “Mum didn’t want Tom involved; she thought he was much too old for me.”

    Familial pressure turned out to be too much for Judith, causing her to move to New Zealand where she began teaching, got married and raised seven children.

    “She just disappeared,” Tom said. “I didn’t know where she was; I couldn’t find her anywhere in Australia. I thought she was dead.”

    Tom kept the engagement and wedding rings, placing it in a wooden cabinet for safe keeping, They would remain in this cabinet for 60 years.

    Tom also moved on. He eventually moved back to central Queensland, married a fellow teacher, and raised four girls.

    Despite moving on, however, Tom never lost hope that he and Judith would be reunited. He would search for her at every one of their University’s reunions, but she never attended them. He gave up, eventually, and stopped seeking her out. He was then surprised to find that she was at the 50 year reunion, and immediately called her.

    The pair reunited in 2009 at another reunion, but despite keeping in touch through Christmas cards, their relationship did not progress.

    It was only after Tom’s wife passed on, and Judith had been widowed for a long time, that they began to explore their relationship again.

    “The chance of us meeting each other and the chances of us picking up where we left off — we seem to be pretty compatible,” said Judith.

    In April 2019 the couple met up face-to-face and holidayed together in Queensland. It was here that Tom proposed again.

    “When he asked me to marry him, I said yes straightaway,” said Judith. “Normally I have to think about things for a while and sometimes I think about it long enough for it not to happen.”

    They finally married in an intimate ceremony in October 2019, where Tom was finally able to place the long-kept wedding ring on Judith’s finger.

    “I thought after 60 years, it was about time she had it back — and it fitted,” said Tom.

     

    Picture: ABC News

     

     

    Your maid of honour is usually your best fried and you trust her with everything regarding your big day. She is the one who’s got your back. This maid of honour fulfilled her role perfectly, but some might say she didn’t exactly approach it in the best way. She noticed that her friend’s new boyfriend acted suspiciously when they first started dating. The first red flag was when she realised he lied to her friend about the price of the ring.

    On the night, the groom-to-be decided to pop the question with a ring that still had the price tag of $599 (R8 870) on it. Fortunately, the best friend stopped him and they took the price tag off before the bride-to-be saw it, however, the best friend later found out that he had told his then-fiancée that he had bought the ring for $12,000 (R177 798).

    In a Reddit thread, the maid of honour explains how the groom then started telling outrageous stories about his life, which, according to her, seemed too outlandish to be true. He also did some suspicious things and had a history that raised red flags. For instance, he told the maid of honour and her partner that he was a millionaire but lost everything when he got divorced. He also said he used drugs with his ex-wife to try and bring her back from her addiction. The ex-wife, he said, abused him.

    Then, the maid of honour was becoming more suspicious and ran a background check on him and found that he kept changing his last name. He had been married three times before and took his ex-wives’ last names. To top that, he had an active aggravated domestic violence case, and a restraining order against him which was granted right before he met the bride.

    When the best friend told the bride-to-be about her findings and concerns, she said she knew about his previous marriages but dismissed all the other concerns saying: “It’s not like that, he had a hard life and he loves me.”

    The maid of honour decided not to be part of the wedding as she didn’t approve of the marriage and knew that her friend was landing herself in a compromising position with this man.

    But shortly before the wedding, the bride phoned her and begged her to be there. The maid of honour, wanting to protect her friend,  then decided to attend the wedding with a sign that read: “As your best friend, I OBJECT! You deserve better! Done with love xoxoxox,” taped to the back of her shirt.

    However, despite all the maid of honour’s efforts, the wedding went ahead. Regretting nothing about her objection, the maid of honour is no longer on speaking terms with her best friend. She said that even though she was sad, she has moved on.

    If you do disagree with your best friend’s choice to marry a person, the right thing to do is to gently warn her like this maid of honour did. Make sure you have your facts straight, though.

    Picture: Pexels

    A couple in Russia had their wedding pictures taken in gas masks at an illegal chemical waste dump as an attempt to create awareness about toxic waste.

    Voctoria and Oleg at their photoshoot.

    The activists, Victoria Menshikova and Oleg Kabanov, say they do not belong to any specific organisation or group, but feel strongly that environmental pollution affects everyone, according to W24. The couple wanted to show people that if we are not more conscious about the way we treat waste, soon everywhere will just be one big landfill.

    According to the groom, a chemical waste landfill on the outskirts of Ryazan appeared around 10 years ago and has continued to operate despite a court ordering the site’s closure in 2011.

    The bride.

    In August, a fire even started at the site, proving that these toxic sites are posing a threat to nature and humans. As reported by The Moscow Times, there are almost 11,000 landfills and 40,000 garbage dumps in urban areas, protected forests and rural regions in Russia. The country’s landfills are in fact reportedly at risk of a “catastrophic overflow.”

    In light of this, many view the couple’s decision as heroic and an important step towards a greener future.

    Pictures: W24