• Category

    Weddings

    Category

    Long-sleeved wedding dresses are no longer considered conservative but are a fashionable addition to any wedding dress. Brides are able to incorporate different fabrics and styles within the sleeves and will also be kept somewhat warm if they are having a winter wedding.

    Here are some of the latest long-sleeved wedding dresses that are available locally:

    Timeless Bridal Couture

    A detailed lace bodice that extends to the sleeves.

    Elbeth Gillis

    A simple and elegant long sleeve dress with button detail.

    Cindy Bam

    A long-sleeved lace bodice paired with a simple skirt for a simple and classic look.

    Chanelle Cindy Bridal

    An embellished long-sleeved bodice for that wow-factor.

    Veil Bridal Couture

    A body-hugging simple full length sleeved dress with lace detail.

    Bo and Luca

    Hand-embroidered and featuring balloon sleeves.

    Vonvé Bridal Couture

    An off-the-shoulder long sleeve with an intricate lace design.

    Olivelli

    A simple dress with lace sleeves for a classic and feminine look.

    Feature Image: Visual Poetry Photography

    All eyes don’t have to be on the bride only – the groom can turn a few heads too! But how do you bring that same ‘wow’ factor with something as simple as a suit and tie? Here’s how to ensure that you and your mates are looking dapper on the big day.

    Classic

    A classic black suit and tie paired with a crisp white shirt is a definite crowd-pleaser.

    Grey

    Grey is a great option as it’s available in many variations. Try and pick a shade of grey that will suit your venue and colour scheme. For example, if it’s a beach or rustic wedding you’d usually opt for a light shade of grey.

    Blue

    It’s a great colour that suits all skin tones. It’s simple enough to be timeless, but a bit more daring than the classic black and white.

    View this post on Instagram

     

    What a dashing group of gentlemen ? #groomsmen #herecomesthegroom #groomsmenstyle #dashing

    A post shared by Magdachapel Photography (@magdachapel4488) on

    Tailor it!

    No matter which colour or option you choose, tailoring will be your best friend. A tailored suit is already a statement, no matter the colour scheme. It looks put together, well-fitted and smart.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    2 years today. Peter and his groomsmen dressed head to toe in #AdrianJules ? #HappyAnniversary❤️

    A post shared by Adrian Jules Custom Clothier (@ajcustomsuits) on

    Casual

    Again, this depends on your venue and the vibe of your big day, but deciding on a causal outfit has never looked this good. An added bonus is the reusable factor – you can dress it up or down as much as you’d like, for any occasion.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    We’re totally here for this jean jacket groomsmen style! And we have plenty of men’s fashion inspo where this came from! Stop on by the blog today for 17 easy-to-recreate groomsmen outfit ideas for every wedding style from ultra-classy ? to cool and casual ? Link in bio ? // ? @indiaearl ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ •⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ •⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ •⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ •⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ •⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ #groom #groomsmen #mensfashion #jeanjackets #weddingfashion #weddinginspo #weddingideas #weddingplanning #weddingtips #junebugweddings #groomsmenstyle #groomstyle #floraltie #casualwedding #bohowedding

    A post shared by Junebug Weddings (@junebugweddings) on

    Statement ties

    Opt for a plain suit and a bold tie for that unexpected bit of detail.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    The groomsmen looking good at @hotelsancristobal featured today on @greenweddingshoes suit by @paulsmithdesign swipe ??

    A post shared by Wedding Photographer (@byamylynn) on

    A bit of matching

    Who doesn’t love a good match? While uniformity is great among you and your groomsmen, you (and your partner) are the star of the show. You don’t have to all wear the same outfit in order to have a bit of matching.

    Image: Unsplash

    Ellie Goulding and Caspar Jopling wed on August 31, 2019. The wedding took place at the York Minster Cathedral in England. Whether it was the star-studded wedding guest list or the hoards of fans that lined the streets, it’s no surprise that the lavish nuptials are being mistaken for a royal affair.

    Fans speculate that the couple met through their mutual friend, Princess Eugenie. The English singer-songwriter has been engaged to the art dealer since August 2018. Caspar announced the engagement on Instagram.

    Ellie opted for a gothic style wedding gown which was a custom-made Chloé piece. The dress was hand embroidered and featured glass beads, white roses and took a total of 640 hours to make. The bridesmaids all wore beautiful white gowns.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    Thankful for everyone and everything, especially you

    A post shared by Caspar Jopling (@casparjopling) on

    The lavish wedding incorporated a lot of flowers – from the retro Volkswagen camper van to embellishing the cathedral door.

    After the ‘royal affair’, the flowers did not go to waste but was instead gifted to the fans who lined the streets.

    Wedding guests included Katy Perry, Orlando Bloom, Princess Beatrice, Princess Eugenie, Ed Sheeran and Sienna Miller.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    Katy Perry and Orlando Bloom led the stylish arrivals to York Minster Cathedral for Ellie Goulding and her longtime love Caspar Jopling’s nuptials on Saturday. Stars included: Katy Perry, Orlando Bloom, Sienna Miller, James Blunt, Princess Eugenie, Princess Beatrice, The Duchess of York and so much more. Congrats to the newlyweds ??? • • • #elliegoulding #ellie #elliegouldingfan #elliegouldingqueen #elliegouldingconcert #starryeyed #yoursong #married #justmarried #weddingday #casparjopling #caspar #ellieandcaspar #york #orlandobloom #orlando #katyperry #siennamiller #sienna #princesseugenie #princesseugenieofyork #princessbeatrice #thenikkidiaries #nikkisnews #nntv

    A post shared by The Nikki Diaries (NEW ACC) (@thenikkidiaries_) on

    Image: Facebook/Ellie Goulding

    Do you really need wedding insurance? Wedding insurance, simply put, is the insuring of your big day. It can be anything from the venue to any cancellations. You may be questioning the necessity of this but when you’re spending thousands and thousands on your nuptials it may be a good investment.

    As much as you shouldn’t be negative about things, it’s also vital to take precautions. Would you purchase a phone or a car and not obtain insurance? So if you’re spending more than what you’d pay for a phone – and in some cases – a car then why wouldn’t you insure your big day?

    Wedding insurance can be tailored to suit any couples needs. Various companies also have different packages available that cover a few too many things.

    Consider a few things before making your final decision:
    – How much are you spending on your wedding?

    If you’re opting for a micro wedding then maybe you don’t need insurance since you’re not spending too much.

    – How far in advance are you planning?

    Insurance may be a good option if you’re planning a year in advance since it’s hard to know if anything may happen. Whereas situations are less likely to change in a month or two.

    – How long have you saved for your big day?

    If you’ve been saving for a long time you might want to invest in insurance. You wouldn’t want to lose your hard-earned money. If money isn’t an issue for you, then maybe not.

    – Anything can happen (unfortunately)

    Sadly no one knows what the future hold. There may be a death in the family or (touch wood) your partner. It’s not nice to talk about but it should be noted. Death aside, there may be damage done to your venue, a result of a guest who had a bit too much to drink or perhaps an innocent mistake.

    Keep the above-mentioned in mind. Remember to talk to your wedding planner and vendors as some of them may be covered. Even if so it’ll never be full coverage for the full wedding.

    Picture: Pexels

    Before you stress about your two left feet, it’s important to remember that wedding dance floor etiquette is not about knowing how to perfectly ace the waltz or foxtrot. Simply put, it’s about knowing when you can hit the floor to bust a move. Have a look at the order of dances at a wedding.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    We’re over the moon? Classical first-dance under a hundred fireworks is definitely something out-of-dreams?

    A post shared by Fadi Fattouh (@fadifattouh) on

    Assuming it’s a traditional wedding with the ‘usual’ dance order here’s how it goes:

    Obviously the newly wed couple will take to the floor first. They will share their first dance together as a married couple. It is usually quite a sweet and romantic moment. They choose a special song that means something to them along with a dance.

    Next the bride will dance with her father. It can be quite emotional so get the tissues ready!

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    Daddy dance with me I want you to see the woman I’ve become. Daddy don’t let go I want you to know I’ll always need your love. Today I became his wife But I’ll be your baby girl for life. ~Krystal Keith There’s something about parent dances that make me teary-eyed. I just always love those intimate moments that you spend as a married person dancing with the person who has loved and supported you from the beginning. That’s my #weddingadvice for Thursday: make sure that you get to spend some time with the people who mean the most to you! Photo by: @jamieapratt #wedding #weddinginspo #advice #tip #tennesseewedding #tennessee #knoxville #knoxrocks #865life #tennesseeweddingplanner #southernwedding #southernbride #knoxvillewedding #outdoorwedding #parent #parents #parentdance #father #fatheranddaughter #fatherdaughterdance

    A post shared by Tennessee Wedding Planner (@southerneleganceweddings) on

    Then the mother of the bride will dance with the groom followed by the brides parents, who will take to the floor for a spin or two.

    The groom will sway away with his own mother thereafter.

    His parents can then share a moment and then finally the guests can join in and shake a leg.

    It’s important to note that this order can be changed and does not have to be followed. Edit it how you want to suit you and your partners desires.

    If you’re a guest just remember not to step on the dance floor when it’s the couple’s first dance. Keep an eye out in case you recognise the above mentioned order and when you get the go ahead show them what your two left feet are made of!

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    #weddingdance #polishgirl #polishboy #married #wesele #hejwesele z @amaszorzeszki ? #annaisbridal #sukniaslubna #princessdress #summervibes

    A post shared by Martyna Es (@martyneczka1223) on

    Picture: Pexels

    Who said garlands were just for the table? Take your decor to new heights with greenery installations – one of our favourite trends at the moment. Normally decor is focused on eye-level, but what about accessorising the higher spaces with lush greens as well. You can change the whole feel of the space with something as simple (and budget-friendly) as leaves and vines. Take a look:

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    Feeling a little under the weather after spending last week up a slippery ladder hanging onto a tipi pole with rain pouring down my face, the immune system has taken a bit of a hit. Then @agnes.black sends me this beauty and suddenly everything seems more than OK! Just wow ? I’ll be back on emails tomorrow after some much needed R&R, thanks for your patience everyone! @fivefourstudios @hollyrussell_1 @innercityweddings @hipswinguk @pinkcocoa_sarah #hangingfoliage #hangingflowers #foliagewedding #hanginggreenery #floralinstallation #greenerywedding #suspendedgreenery #suspendedfoliage #coolbride #tablerunner #floraldecor #statementflowers #tablegreenery #underthefloralspell #flowerstyle #manchesterflorist #cheshireflorist #overheadfoliage #weddingflowers #modernbride #alternativeflowers #topteble #weddingreception #spanishmoss #weddingdecor #floralstyling #manchesterweddingflowers #cascadingflowers #floralart

    A post shared by S A S S F L O W E R (@sassflower) on

    One of the best things about incorporating greenery into your decor, is the affordability. It’s a budget-friendly ‘floral’ option and you can even do it yourself! You only need to purchase the greenery, wire or fixtures, and do some research on how to build it.

    You can buy wire, a floral hoop and a variety of greenery, and easily create a heavenly leafy green chandelier. It comes down to your entwining skills and a whole lot of securing. Alternatively, your florist will be able to make, or help you with, bigger projects. Think big! High ceilings + a big trellis = winner combo!

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    This magical setting is giving us ALL of the heart eyes! ? Beautiful work by @weddingconceptsusa @okasie @somethingdifferentza ?⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ? @hewittwrightphotographer⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ .⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ .⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ .⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ .⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ .⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ #weddinglighting #pendantlighting #industrialwedding #organicwedding #modernwedding #weddinginstallation #weddingstyling #weddingstylist #weddingtables #weddingreception #weddingreceptioninspiration #instawed #weddingflowers #hangingfoliage #hanginggreenery #hanginglights #weddingideas #weddingstylingideas #uniquewedding #weddingreceptionideas #diywedding #weddinginspo #gettingmarried #pinterestwedding

    A post shared by Wedsites | Wedding Planning (@wedsites) on

    However, the option is yours. You can opt for a simplistic greenery style or a fuller look. How? Keep greenery limited to give a more delicate, fresh appearance or use larger volumes for that fairytale-like lush look.

    If you’d prefer not to make something from scratch, you can always embellish existing fixtures as well, or incorporate it into the rest of your flowers to add depth and fullness.

    This decor option is great if you love the idea and beauty of the outdoors, but prefer to not actually host your wedding outside. Either way, it’s a beautiful addition to just about any theme.

    Image: Wesley Vorster Photography

    The first dance is daunting, to say the least, especially if you and your partner aren’t big on the dance front. Instead of worrying about showing off your two left feet, we’ve rounded up some of Cape Town’s finest studios where you can fine-tune your best ballroom moves:

    1.Phoenix Dance Company

    Based in Belville, Cape Town, this dance studio offers a wide variety of dance classes including lessons on how to perfect your first dance. No previous dance experience is required. If you and your partner can’t decide on a song, they can also help you pick the perfect tune. They also offer classes for the father-daughter dance, bridal party and parents.

    2. The John Hamman School of Ballroom Dance

    Based in Newlands, Cape Town, here you’ll feel confident as they teach you all the right moves. They offer quick classes which means you won’t have to spend too much time learning your first dance.

    3. Enerchi Dance

    Based in Claremont, Cape Town. They offer a variety of packages to choose from, and can tailor each dance to suit every couple’s needs. Enerchi Dance also customises your dance according to the size of your dance floor.

    4. Paradiso Academy

    Based in Zonnebloem, Cape Town. Forget the stress and panic involved with wedding planning and have a little fun while learning your first dance or father-daughter dance. Again, no experience required!

    5. Jacques Carstens Dance Studio

    Based in Belville, Cape Town. This dance studio will be there to help you every (dance) step of the way, with a hefty side of fun.

    Image: Unsplash

     

    Weddings are beautiful, joy-filled days to celebrate love. However, they can also be expensive and overwhelming. But what if your special day could be fully planned and executed for you in just two hours and at just a fraction of the cost?

    Pop Up Weddings SA is a venture offering couples all the fun of a traditional ceremony in just 2 hours, minus the stress and high prices.  Their team of wedding planners do it all for you: planning, sourcing, and setting up. All you have to do is show up. Four couples a day share a pre-determined venue in 2-hour slots per ceremony. Each Pop Up has a specific theme devised and planned by the wedding team. For example, a past pop up followed an Urban Adventure theme.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B0OiA_9DXdw/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

     

    Up to 15 guests can be invited, making this a micro wedding. A professional photographer captures your perfect day throughout and couples receive 150-200 professionally edited photos. The loved-up pair also receive a personalised floral bouquet and boutonnière, mini wedding cake and a bottle of bubbly (or non-alcoholic substitute).

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BxMC1bJAG8k/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BvOrg7AgBjh/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    While the idea of a pop up wedding might not be for everyone, there are many this concept is well suited to.  It works well for those with a small budget and it’s great for couples wanting to be different. It’s also ideal for people feeling overwhelmed by the pressure of planning an entire wedding themselves. Pairs who don’t want a big do can also benefit from this as it’s basically the fancier version of a home affairs wedding.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BvRKJl3AKPf/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    For more information please visit www.popupweddingsa.co.za.

    Image: Unsplash

    Lavender truly is a versatile little bloom. Used to calm and soothe you before bedtime, fill up your garden with sweet scents and pastel colours, or, in your wedding florals. Although it’s not a common first choice when picking blooms for your bouquet, table or installations, it really should be. Here are a few clever ways on how to incorporate lavender into your special day:

    Confetti

    It’s hardy enough to dry without breaking, and won’t litter the environment like plastic and glitter will.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    Lavender – the flower of devotion ?⠀ ⠀ Thank you to the florists and clients who reached out this past year to include some of my lavender as part of their wedding celebrations & decor. Creating a wedding collection as part of my lavender line has been in the books even before we had a lavender in the ground. Now that we have an established crop, my plan for 2020 is to offer couples a collection that includes lavender wedding toss, lavender bouquets, lavender boutonnières, lavender aisle markers, lavender place settings & centerpieces, and of course bunches of lavender for the DIY-er ?.⠀ ⠀ I want to hear from you! ? Brides, Grooms, Florists, Event Planners, and Lavender Lovers….let me know what you want to see! Please share your ideas below?or send me a note✍️! If you are looking for some inspiration, head over ? to my Lavender Wedding Board on Pinterest to see some of my favourite picks. ? Link in bio ?. _ _ _ #lavenderwedding #lavendertoss #lavenderweddingtheme #lavenderweddingflowers #weddingdecorideas #lavenderlove #countrywedding #countryweddings #pembylife #seatoskywedding #whistlerwedding #squamishwedding #rockymountainbride #weddinginthemountains #weddinginthemeadow #themeaningofflowers #fromthegardenshed

    A post shared by Catherine Karpman (@fromthegardenshed) on

    Bouquet or bridesmaids’ bouquets

    If you’re going for a more dainty, rustic type of aesthetic, lavender is the perfect pick for a long-lasting and budget-friendly addition, or to use alone.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    Congratulations Carrie, you are a beautiful bride! ?: @klaarphotography

    A post shared by Lavender Wedding Co. (@lavenderweddingco) on

    Add it to your invitation or stationary

    A single sprig of lavender attached to your invitations or escort cards will last longer than most flowers and will subtly scent the paper as well.

    Boutonnieres

    Small and detailed flowers work best for boutonnieres to provide that extra bit of detail to the groom or groomsmen’s ensembles.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    Well, we are moved in! Every muscle hurts, but I’m loving the new place so far! ?❤️ #lavenderboutonniere

    A post shared by Emily Suidikas (@whichgoose) on

    In your altar or chuppah

    It’s whimsical, a little wild and undeniably romantic. And because you need larger amounts of flowers to fill up the space, lavender offers a wallet-friendly alternative to more expensive flowers.

    Use it in your hair

    Instead of incorporating flowers that are bound to wilt and break off, pin small pieces of lavender sprigs and young blooms to your flower crown, in your updo or in your plait.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    Our dried Lavender hair comb is a beautiful accent for any bride.

    A post shared by Lavender Wedding Co. (@lavenderweddingco) on

    Decorate your lounge areas and tables

    Take small vases or pots and place bunches of lavender everywhere your guests will be lounging or sitting, perfect for an al fresco setting with the added bonus of being a natural insect repellent. Alternatively, place bunches of fresh lavender along the centre of your tables instead of traditional runners.

    Tie it to your chairs

    Small bunches of lavender tied to your seating area or along your aisle make for a fragrant sillage that will envelop while your guests are seated.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    Bundles of rosemary and lavender to accent the ceremony aisle ~ best smelling aisle!

    A post shared by Bella Bloom Florals – Oregon (@bellabloomflorals) on

    Add it to your dessert table or cocktails

    Food-grade lavender sprigs add a floral and slightly sweet flavour to your cake, tiny desserts, and even your cocktails and G&Ts.

    Give individual plants or seeds as favours

    A gift that keeps on giving is the ultimate gift. Give your guests seed pods or a small lavender plant to take home with them, plant and eventually harvest.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    Lavender season #lavender #lavenderseason #lavenderfavors #weddingfavors #marturii #nunta #botez #marturiinunta #marturiibotez

    A post shared by Plantecadou.ro (@plantecadou) on

    Image: Unsplash

    Be careful of what you put out on social media – it’s forever. Videos that grab people’s attention for various reasons often end up going viral. A recent video of a Nigerian bride went viral when it showed her walking away from her own wedding.

    The woman can be seen making her way down the aisle with her father by her side. She then stops and you can see her shaking her head. The father seems to be attempting to comfort her. The (almost) bride-to-be kneels down says something to her father, gets up and leaves. The next angle shows her flipping the veil over her face with bouquet in hand.

    Images: Unsplash