Weddings Archives | Page 186 of 190

In Wedding Cakes

Look book: Desert rose

November 28, 2017 No Comments

Infuse your wedding decor with a spirit of adventure, incorporating shades of desert sand in beige, khaki and ochre.

TIP: Fruitcake travels well – s0 send your guests home with a slice in a pretty box.

Cakes, Dilley’s Cakes and Cupcakes

Silver platter gold cake server to hire, both Check My China; home-made marshmallows, MaMère Confections

Oval platter to hire, Check My China; boutonnière, Fleur le Cordeur

TIP: Play with contrasts to create depth and interest – mix textured linen and raw terracotta, smooth porcelain and wonky ceramics, fleshy succulents and thorny branches.

Linen napkins to hire, Plush Props; cups and bronze-rimmed dinner plates, all Mervyn Gers Ceramics; floral arrangements, Fleur le Cordeur

TIP: Look for fabric swatches with African patterns for inspiration

Wedding invitation, thank-you tag, name tags and venue map, all Seven Swans; desert rocks to hire, Propeller Props

White side plate to hire, Plush Props; rose-gold fork to hire, Check My China; cake, Dilley’s Cakes and Cupcakes

Aqua espresso saucer and white espresso saucer, Mervyn Gers Ceramics; terracotta snack bowls R4 to hire, Check My China; white plates and mini pot-pie pot to hire, all Plush Props

TIP: A wooden tabletop (painted in Plascon Orange You Glad) + water-based paints + potato stamps = endless design possibilities!

Karoo dining chair with matt gold ribbon seat, Pierre Cronje; floral centrepiece, Fleur le Cordeur; dinner plate with bronze edging, Mervyn Gers Ceramics; white side plate and linen napkin to hire, both Plush Props; name tag, Seven Swans; slender cup, Mervyn Gers Ceramics; green glass and copper cutlery from to hire, Check My China; terracotta jug to hire, Propeller Props

Decor: Shannon Daniell
Photography: Andreas Eiselen/hsmimages.co.za

*Products subject to availability

In Beauty

Questions to ask before booking a bridal make-up artist

November 27, 2017 No Comments

Your make-up is arguably one of the most important aspects of your wedding day – besides your dress and hubby-to-be, of course. There are a number of questions you should ask your bridal make-up artist, and once having had them answered confidentially, you can have peace of mind.

1. CAN I BOOK A TRIAL BEFOREHAND?

This is essential since it will give you the opportunity to tell the artist exactly what you do and don’t like. You’ll also be able to see how your make-up will look on your wedding day; if you’re happy, they’re hired! Make sure you book a few months in advance and ask for a trial guideline – the artist will be able to provide this in full detail.

2. WHAT HAPPENS IN THE EVENT OF AN EMERGENCY?

We all know that life happens, but on your big day, you need complete peace of mind. Find out if your artist has a solid cancellation policy should there be an emergency on her side. Will there be a backup plan in terms of an assistant or another artist attending on her behalf? What is their policy regarding a refund? What if the artist is late? All of the above need to be answered by the artist in the form of a contract. If not, think twice.

3. DO YOU WORK ALONE OR WITH A TEAM OF ASSISTANTS?

If you and your entire bridal party need to be done and dusted (or powdered, rather) by a certain time, ask the artist if she will have some capable hands to jump in and help. You can also ask her to set up a timeline for you, with each member of your retinue assigned to a specific artist and the time they need to be ready. This will help the process run more smoothly, and everyone will feel much more relaxed.

4. CAN I USE SOME OF MY OWN PRODUCTS?

Make-up artists usually use their own products and tools, but if you have particularly sensitive skin or are allergic to anything specific, ask the artist to use some of your own trustworthy products that you are comfortable with. Make sure you let them know during your trial so that they can also plan accordingly.

5. DO YOU HAVE A PORTFOLIO OR SOCIAL MEDIA PAGES I CAN LOOK AT?

This is purely for you to see what the artist is capable of, or particularly good at. If her other work photographs well, you can be sure yours will look good too. If they don’t have anything to show you, be wary. You won’t have any ideas as to their skill level, even if you’re still in the trial phase.

Photography: pinterest.com

In Food

Hire a food truck for your wedding

November 21, 2017 No Comments

Let’s make a toast to food trucks! Whatever would we do without their deliciousness? We’ve rounded up some of our favourites from all across SA to make your catering decision easier.

DURBAN

1. Fudart STREATery

Just that name is amazing, right? They serve an array of awesome options including, beef burgers, falafel and even Durban bunny chow!

2. Love Coffee

This Durban favourite goes about their day making sure locals are getting the caffeine boost they need to keep going all day long. And a good cuppa will also keep the energy high on your big day.

3. Salted Candy

You can look forward to exciting and easy-to-eat food including jaffles, old-school fish and chips, gourmet paninis, burgers and bunny chow.

JOBURG

1. Culture Kitchen

They go beyond food norms. You can expect everything from eggs Benedict to trendy pulled pork buns.

2. Maison Belge

A tiny slice of heaven, your guests will be lining up for waffles, chocolate, beer and much, much more.

3. The Brohemian

Pizza is always a good idea. Always! Enjoy authentic wood-fired pizzas (yes, from their truck!). Another bonus is that all their ingredients are free-range and organically sourced.

CAPE TOWN

1. Cosmo Cafe

Offering food from around the globe, tuck into their home-made Tuscan fettuccini, a New York lox bagel, a Pakistani mince lolly wrap, Thai pork or chicken, and Moroccan tagines and salads. Sold!

2. The Mad Batter

Focussing on all things sweet, you can enjoy treats such as waffles on a stick, popcorn, Nutella cigars, double-thick milkshakes, pancakes and cakes.

3. HeMazing

Gourmet Indian cuisine? Check! From curry bowls to Indian-style quesadillas, Aloo tikka burgers, chickpea and potato chaat, crispy chicken tikka strips, and even Indian nachos, they’re definitely living up to their name!

In Beauty

4 trendy nail ideas for the modern bride

November 20, 2017 No Comments

Having your nails done for your wedding day doesn’t mean your go-to choice has to be a French manicure. We know that it’s a timeless classic, but there are alternative trends that can definitely up your game. So we’ve put together these amazing nail ideas for the modern bride.

1. EMBELLISHED CUTICLES

This detailed look will immediately draw the eye to the cuticle, so first thing’s first, make sure they are in tip-top condition. Once that’s done, a neutral base in nudes, sorbet hues or even grey is key in making sure the detailing around your cuticle stands out. Apply your embellishment either to where the white crescents of your nails are or around your nail bed. You can use anything from silver glitter and gold polish to little gems. Just make sure it’s minimal and neat.

2. A GRAPHIC FRENCH MANI

Taking inspiration from the classic French, this graphic version incorporates colours and alternative designs for a modern revamp. Keep the length of your nails shorts and try to stick to only one or two colours in addition to your base coat. We love the idea of ivory with rose gold tips (to match your jewellery) as a perfect bridal look.

3. LADYLIkE NEUTRALS

Nothing screams ‘lady’ quite like a solid polish in a beautiful neutral shade. File your nails to an almond or oval shape, for an elongating effect, and coat them neatly with a rosy nude, a crisp white, a purply grey or a warm beige. This is soft and feminine and won’t take away from any of the other striking details in your overall look.

4. MODERN METALLICS

This creates an elegant and fun style that you can play with and alter according to how much bling you can handle. Try a solid coat in a pearlescent hue with a single vertical metallic stripe for a modest look, or go for a full-on gold foil over your base coat.

Photography: pinterest.com

In Fashion And Grooming

6 tips on how to pick a suit off the rack

November 15, 2017 No Comments

Guys, want to look like a million bucks in an off-the-rack suit? Theo Ngobeni, the founder of Mr Slimfit, a styling service that caters to some of SA’s biggest stars, gives his six top tips on how to pick a suit off the rack and ensure it’s tailored to your exact specifications.

1. The suit jacket should always fit well on your shoulders as it is very difficult for a tailor to alter this part.

2. There are three kinds of hems you could opt for. The first is the no-break, where your trousers end just under the ankle bone. The second is the half-break, which is usually a half-inch hem. The full-break is an inch hem. If you’ve got a slim-fit suit, opt for the no- or half-break.

3. Most stylish guys want their jackets to have that flattering ‘V’ shape. A common mistake tailors make in trying to create this is to take in the jacket at the middle seam at the back. Instead, ask your tailor to take in the seams that run above the vents of a double-vent jacket.

4. The length of your jacket is critical. If it’s too long, the shape of the jacket can be compromised if it’s shortened. If it’s too short, it can look altered if it’s extended. To get this right, stand up with your arms stretched out at your sides and make a fist. Your jacket should end at the base of your fist.

5. If your jacket is slim-fit, your trousers need to be too. Ask your tailor to taper them using the inside seam.

6. Make sure the trousers fit well at the waist. If the waist fits comfortably but the trousers are too tight around your thighs, rather choose a waist size up. It’s much easier for a tailor to bring in the waist than to give you more breathing room around your thighs.

Fashion & styling: Kim Coe
Photography: Gareth van Nelson/hsmimages.co.za

In Decor

Up, up and away! DIY balloon wedding arch

November 14, 2017 No Comments

Say your I-dos under this fresh, fun balloon wedding arch. Prepare the wire structure and balloons the day before, then just add greenery in the morning.

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

6 m chicken wire
Florist’s wire
Wooden rods or fishing line
Florist’s foam
Balloons
Flowers and leaves

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1

Roll your chicken wire lengthways into a tube and bend in the centre to create an arch. Keep the arch together by tying florist’s wire at intervals along it.

Step 2

If the arch is going outside, use sturdy wooden rods or poles to stand it upright. Insert one end of each rod into the ground at least 20 cm deep. Place the bottom ends of the arch over the rods and secure with florist’s wire. If the arch will be placed indoors, suspend it from the ceiling with fishing line.

Step 3

Insert bits of damp florist’s foam into the arch, ensuring they are hidden.

Step 4

Blow up as many balloons as you like (we used 150) and attach to the arch using florist’s wire.

Step 5

Insert your flowers and leaves into the foam, using florist’s wire to hold them in place.

Step 6

Cover any exposed florist’s foam with balloons or flowers.

In Advice

5 clever ways to cut costs on your wedding

November 9, 2017 No Comments

Love may not cost a thing – but a wedding usually does! Take the financial sting out of your big day with our 5 clever ways to cut costs.

By Jessica Baxter

1. GO OFF PEAK

Venues and service providers are usually more expensive in peak wedding season, so consider an off-peak wedding to cut costs. Alternatively, if you’ve always dreamt of a summer soirée, make it a mid-week affair, which may bring down the price substantially.

2. FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Catering can eat into your budget. Do your research on the cost of a buffet versus a plated meal. Another way to trim the fat is to limit the choices on the menu.

3. SCALE DOWN THE PHOTO SHOOT

Photographers tend to charge by the hour, so ask a friend or bridesmaid to take photos of you getting ready and hire the professional for the main event only.

4. THE DRESS

If you’ve had your eye on a designer gown that costs more than your car, consider hiring a dress or buying one on sale. You can also cast your net wider and browse regular stores for evening dresses.

5. BUDGET BLOOMS

Do you have a friend or neighbour with a beautiful garden? Ask them what’s in season when you get married and you may be able to forage flowers and foliage from their garden to use in your table arrangements. If you’re using a florist, specify seasonal flowers to keep the price down.

FIVE EXTRA WAYS TO STRETCH YOUR RANDS EVEN FURTHER

1. Keep the numbers small. Invite only close family and friends – the ones you know will be celebrating your 10-year wedding anniversary with you.
2. Choose e-vites instead of regular invitations – no postage, no printing costs.
3. Cut the entourage. Instead of having a bevvy of bridesmaids, choose one or two and ask other close friends to be involved by doing a reading or handing out the order of service.
4. Limit the bar. Offer only beer, cider and wine instead of a full bar service.
5. Choose a DJ instead of a band and ask them to play at both the ceremony and reception to get the most bang for your buck.

In Decor

10 paper craft ideas for your wedding

November 7, 2017 No Comments

Soft and tousled, straight-cut, crinkled or dyed, let these paper craft ideas in their myriad forms be a part of your wedding story.

1. A message notebook as a striking centrepiece

Paper flowers, Love Paper Sew

2. Add paper flowers to your stationery

Menu, invitation with envelope and RSVP card, table number, name tags, and paper flowers, all Chrystalace Wedding Stationery

3. Paper cones with confetti

4. Sweet treats adorned with paper flowers

Nougat, MaMère Confections; paper flower, Chrystalace Wedding Stationery

5. A paper bouquet

Paper flowers, Love Paper Sew; laser-cut leaves, stylist’s own

6. A paper garland

Paper garland, stylist’s own; paper flowers, Love Paper Sew

7. Cupcakes with windmills

Cupcakes each, Florentines Cakes; paper windmills, stylist’s own

8. Chinese lanterns

Paper Chinese lanterns, The In Thing

9. A paper cake topper

Cake, Florentines Cakes; cake topper, Chrystalace Wedding Stationery

10. Hand-written thank you notes for your guests

Thank-you tag, Chrystalace Wedding Stationery; pencil crayons, The Deckle Edge; lined napkin, stylist’s own

Decor: Rochelle Malherbe
Photography: Gareth van Nelson/hsmimages.co.za

In Planning

4 ways to up your wedding entertainment

November 3, 2017 No Comments

In the market for something a little less ordinary for your wedding entertainment? Read on…

1. BELLY DANCER

Q. How can I make sure the belly dancer I hire will put on an age-appropriate performance, keeping in mind there will be grandparents and children in attendance?
A. Do your research before booking anyone. Look at their website for photos to make sure you approve of their costumes, and if you have access to any videos of their performances, watch those for an idea of what to expect.

Q. Will I pay more for a group performance?
A. The cost of a performance depends entirely on the company, but don’t expect a discount rate for group bookings.

Q. Is it better to hire more than one dancer?
A. For a wedding, especially a large celebration, you’ll make more impact hiring a group of belly dancers. More dancers mean more interaction with guests, as they can spread out and encourage audience participation.

Q. How long is a belly dancing show?
A. You can expect a belly dancer to perform for around 20–30 minutes.

2. FIRE JUGGLER

Q. Can I request a specially choreographed show for my wedding?
A. Every company is different, but most will offer you the choice of booking a group performance or a solo act, with the option of tailoring the show to suit your event.

Q. Do companies take care of insurance in the event something goes wrong or is it my responsibility?
A. Most companies should have insurance, but always check when booking, as you don’t want to have to pay for any damage to a venue should the unexpected happen.

Q. Do I need to get clearance from my wedding venue to hire a fire juggler?
A. It is advisable to check if the venue is happy to accommodate fire performers and if there are any restrictions on where they can perform

Q. Should I book the performance for the end of the night or during cocktail hour?
A. A fire show is a great way to end an evening, finishing the night’s celebrations with a bang. Keep in mind where the performance will take place, though. If you need more space or are required by the venue to be outdoors for the show, you may prefer to do it during the pre-reception drinks, rather than asking guests to leave the reception hall to watch the performance.

3. CARICATURIST

Q. How many guests can a caricature artist draw in an hour?
A. An experienced caricaturist may be able to draw as many as 20 guests in an hour.

Q. Where is the best place for the artist to work?
A. Most caricaturists are accustomed to drawing almost anywhere, but keep in mind that they will need good lighting. Seat them somewhere quiet so they can concentrate better.

Q. Do I need to provide the supplies?
A. Caricaturists will bring their own supplies, which will be included in their costing. For a little extra, you can ask them to personalise the paper.

Q. Can the caricature artist draw groups too?
A. Absolutely! In fact, it may be more fun drawing groups of people than individuals, plus it’s a nice way for guests to mingle with each other.

PHOTO BOOTH

Q. Do I provide the props?
A. Props are normally included in the price of the photo booth, but you can always bring a few of your own if you have something unique in mind.

Q. Do I pay by the hour or for the number of photos taken?
A. Most companies will offer different packages, and the price is often based on both the number of hours and the number of photos printed.

Q. Will there be dedicated staff manning the booth or do I need to provide someone?
A. There should be a staff member managing the photo booth, so you don’t have to worry about props going missing or packing up at the end of the evening.

Q. Do photo booths require electricity?
A. Yes, they do, so discuss with your venue prior to the wedding and arrange an appropriate position to set it up.

In Decor

DIY thank you shortbread biscuits

October 31, 2017 No Comments

Your guests will make short work of these scrumptious thank you shortbread biscuits. We love the idea of adding a personal touch to your wedding, and this is one of the easiest ways to do this.

WHAT YOU’LL NEED
250g butter, at room temperature
½ cup caster sugar, plus extra to dust
1 vanilla pod, seeds only
2 cups flour
½ cup cornflour
Custom-made rubber stamps
Biscuit cutters

METHOD
1. Have your rubber stamps made with the greetings of your choice (you can order stamps from rubberstampsa.co.za).
2. Preheat oven to 160°C and grease a 20 cm baking tray.
3. Beat the butter until soft, then beat in the caster sugar and vanilla seeds until light and fluffy. Mix in the rest of the ingredients to form a stiff dough.
4. Roll the dough out on the baking tray so you don’t have to move it afterwards and cut them with your cookie cutters. Stamp each one with your rubber stamp.
5. Bake for 30 minutes, or until golden. Remove from the oven and immediately dust with caster sugar.
6. Carefully remove the shortbread fingers from the tray and transfer to a wire rack to cool before serving.
7. Once they’ve cooled completely, you can put your biscuits in gift boxes or tie them up with cellophane and a pretty ribbon.