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    You’re planning your big day and you’re deciding on venues. A beach, forest and traditional chapel have all crossed your mind, however, those options aren’t engrossing you. So why not think outside the box and set sail by having your wedding on a cruise ship? Here’s how to plan one:


    There are many things to consider when planning a wedding on a cruise ship:

    • Will you get married in port or destination – If you choose port, your guests can come for the ceremony and leave before you sail away with your newlywed partner. Be sure to consult your wedding planner about this.
    • Decide if you and your partner will be taking the cruise by yourselves or with family and friends.
    • Consider your options if your guests are coming along.
    • How much can your guests afford and how long can they stay away.
    • Look for cruises that offer wedding packages or options.


    1. Pick your destination

    Maybe you’ve had your heart set on a specific place and if not, have a look at the options that fall within your budget. Consider when you’d like to go as it’s not always perfect weather year round, unfortunately. Remember, things get pricier in high season as well.


    2. License to wed

    Consult your wedding planner about this. Your romantic nautical nuptials will require a marriage license before the ceremony.


    3. Take your pick

    Once you’ve decided on a destination that fits your budget, have a look at various packages. See what each place has to offer and what their bundle entails. Do they have group rates? Do they include free things with the wedding package? Don’t be afraid to ask.


    4. Communicate

    Be sure to inform your guests well in advance. They may need to plan their leave and save up some money. Keep them updated on all the details and expenses that might come up.


    5. Dress the part

    If you’re going to be staying on the ship, it’s important to factor in your comfortability. It may not be easy to wear a constricting wedding dress on board. If that’s what you want, however, then go for it! But a cruise ship wedding is also the chance to make things more casual.


    6. One-stop shop

    You’ll be getting your ceremony, reception and honeymoon all in one go! If your loved ones come along it’s a great getaway for them too. Smiles all around.

    Picture: Pexels

    Your wedding anniversary is approaching and you have no idea what to get your partner. After years and years of birthdays, religious occasions and relationship anniversaries it may be hard to come up with new ideas, but did you know each wedding anniversary year has an allocated gift according to tradition?

    It seems to be unsure as to who allocated each years gift but there are a few theories. Many sources state that the allocated wedding anniversary gifts originated during medieval times in Germanic regions of Central Europe. Husbands would gift their wives with a silver wreath on their 25th wedding anniversary. On the 50th anniversary she would receive a gold wreath.

    The 60th wedding anniversary is diamond but only after Queen Victoria announced her 60th year on the throne. It was known as her Diamond Jubilee. Before that diamond was allocated to 75 years.

    Other than 25, 50 and 60 years there are no other theories as to where the other gift allocations first originated.

    Have a look at each years gift here:

    1. One year: Paper

     

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    Year one, paper. #calluscaban #81818 #weddingseason #anniversary #marriageanniversary #paperanniversary

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    2. Two years: Cotton

     

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    Cotton anniversary gift for this lovely family ??????? Order your custom anniversary portrait?

    A post shared by Cross Stitch Company (@cross_stitch_company) on


    3. Three years: Leather

     

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    Happy 3rd #wedding #anniversary to us! Love you #hubby @_beav #leatheranniversary #love ??? #3rdanniversary

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    4. Four years: Linen or fruits and flowers


    5. Five years: Wood


    6. Ten years: Tin or aluminum


    7. Fifteen years: Crystal


    8. Twenty years: China


    9.  Twenty-five years: Silver


    10. Thirty years: Pearl


    11. Thirty-five years: Coral

     

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    Anniversary present from Ray – Red Coral for our Coral Anniversary. #35AmazingYears #CoralAnniversary #TreasureOfTheSea

    A post shared by Julia Johnston (@jujohnston) on


    12. Forty years: Ruby

     

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    I often have clients bring in antique rings to be repaired to their former glory, but sometimes they’re so heavily worn that there is no option than to just start over. ⠀ ⠀ Normally I would recommend using the original piece as a leaping off point and design something new that references the design but is reflective of your own personal style. My client had worn this ring for years and had inherited it from her family. She was adamant that we recreate the ring as it was, ready for several more generations. ⠀ ⠀ One of the rubies had fallen out and the remaining one was very heavily worn. I had the old ruby polished and it came up a vibrant hot pink. It was a tricky one to match but I eventually found another ruby that had the same intense colour. The detail on the side of the ring was so worn away that I had to research in to other Victorian rings to find the right pattern to engrave of the side. ⠀ ⠀ When the ring was finally finished my client was overjoyed to have her family treasure brought to life again in its new incarnation.

    A post shared by Nicole Winkler Jewellery (@nicolewinklerjewellery) on

    13. Forty-five years: Sapphire


    14. Fifty years: Gold


    15. Fifty-five: Emerald


    16. Sixty years: Diamond

    Not every anniversary has to be interpreted directly. Put your own twist on things especially if your year is quite pricey. It’s not about how much you spend but about the thought and effort you put into it.

    Picture: Pexels

    The best man is there to assist the groom to be – the equivalent of the maid of honour. Some of their duties include giving advice when picking an outfit, planning the bachelor party, lending an ear and providing some words of wisdom. One very important responsibility, of course, is the best man speech. It can be nerve-wracking to say the least, but don’t worry, we’ve gathered some tips on how to carry out your toast.

    1. Plan and prepare

    This goes without saying, but it’s vital to be prepared. Some may say that winging it is the best way to go, but not in this case. Start thinking about things or funny stories you’d like to mention. Take notes whenever you can and build something up. It really does come in handy when you’re sitting there trying to think of everything to say in one go.

    2. Are you a comedian?

    If not, then please try not to be. Yes there will be some hits, but when the misses come, it’s just awkward. If you do plan on cracking a few jokes, try aiming them at your buddy and not his new bride, unless you’re all really close.

    3. Practice and written copy

    As odd as this may sound, practicing your speech out loud helps a lot. You’ll get comfortable with the words and it won’t sound as though you’re reading your speech on the big day. Know your pauses and when to make eye contact. As the big day approaches, ask someone (not the bride or groom) to listen to your speech. Remember the notes you took? Formulate it all into one copy. If you prefer not to read on the night, write a few points down in bullet form, so if you do stumble, you’ll be able to look down and get back on track.

    4. Don’t mumble and remember the basics

    This goes without saying – people need to be able to hear you. Open your mouth when you talk and project your voice. Introduce yourself and explain how you know the bride and groom. Thank the guests for coming and congratulate the newlywed couple.

    5. Anecdote

    People enjoy listening to stories but not when it’s long and dragged out. Try keeping the speech under five minutes. The stories have to be interesting and funny, and if you’re not sure on how to make it funny, then aim for just putting a smile on the guests faces. You don’t always have to have people in stitches – people appreciate a sweet ‘awww’ moment too.

    6. Avoid at all cost

    Don’t say anything negative about marriage, even if you think it’s funny. This newlywed couple have just entered their marriage and shouldn’t feel regretful. Ex-partners should not be mentioned and this includes girlfriends, boyfriends and ex-spouses. Sexual humour should be avpided completely, because it’s downright inappropriate and may be awkward for the happy couple as their family and close friends are there.

    7. Content

    Just a basic outline of what should or can be mentioned include:

      • Introductions
      • Thanks and congratulations
      • How you know and met the bride and groom
      • Something nice about the groom that people may not know
      • Why the bride and groom make a great couple and how you’ve witnessed their love
      • Relevant quote or poem
      • Champagne time!

     

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    This is part of a speech I gave at my friends wedding recently. Here are 5 Lessons. The speech was scripted because I wanted to share a specific message and I landed that morning after 20 hours of travel haha. I know relationships can be tough but I wanted to share lessons that I believe can make a difference. Nothing good in life comes easy. But when we have principles to live by, values to honor and lessons to start with, we have a better chance of success. A HUGE congrats to the happy couple! It was by far one of the most beautiful weddings I had ever been too because it was with all my closest friends I grew up with. Thank you for having me and allowing me to share some words. So grateful to have you all in my life! I hope this resonates with you. Share it if it does! ? @filmworkstudios

    A post shared by Jay Shetty (@jayshetty) on

    Picture: Pexels

    The cost of a wedding can be quite, well, costly. Most things – from the wedding dress to the venue – can be quite expensive. Opting for a micro wedding is a great option, however one couple from Vereeniging in Gauteng had a better plan. Samkelo and Latoya Khowa tied the knot for only R75.

    Instead of spending thousands on a ‘one day event’, they decided to get married at a Home Affairs office. The couple also stated that after their Home Affairs ceremony they bought a car which wouldn’t have been possible if they opted for an over the top wedding. The marriage license was R55 and R20 to release it.

    They opted for this budget-friendly option as they were not in the means of having a lavish one. Neither one of them regret this decision as they have chosen a marriage over a wedding.

    Samkelo and Latoya met at a church service in 2016 and are not bother by what people have to say about their money-savvy wedding. They are debt free and their main focus is the love they have for one another.

    Samkelo comes from humble beginnings. He struggled to get by and eventually had to leave college due to financial issues. Latoya would help him wherever she could. He found a learnership that turned into a permanent position.

    The wedding itself was R75 and the couple decided to have an engagement church celebration. Which was still less than R5000.

    Picture: Facebook/Latoya Khowa

    The retired professional wrestler said ‘I do’ to Lauren Hashian on August 18th, 2019 in Hawaii. They met while Dwayne was filming The Game Plan (2007) in 2006. Dwayne looked dashing in a white ensemble and, ofcourse, a lei. His singer-songwriter bride wore an elegant lace wedding dress.

    Dwayne announced the nuptials on Instagram on August 19, 2019.

     

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    We do. August 18th, 2019. Hawaii. Pōmaikaʻi (blessed) @laurenhashianofficial❤️ @hhgarcia41?

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    Dwayne and Lauren have two children together – Jasmine who was born in 2015 and Tiana who they welcomed in 2018.

    The Rock was previously married to Dany García. They were together from 1997-2007. Their daughter Simone was born in 2001.

     

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    ♥️

    A post shared by ?????? (@simonegjohnson) on


    Dwayne is one of the highest grossing box office actors of all time. He has starred in movies like The Other Guys (2010), Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle (2017) and has reprised his role as Luke Hobbs in the Fast and the Furious franchise.


    Picture: Lauren Hashian

    Whether the big day is approaching or you just enjoy a happy romantic ending, make sure these wedding movies are on your watch list. When watching these movies you can enjoy beautiful backdrops and exquisite ceremonies. Be sure to get some tips and take notes on what not to do.

    1. Mamma Mia! (2008)

    Sophie Sheridan is getting married. Not knowing her father she is determined to meet her father and have him walk her down the aisle. She invites three men from her mother’s past hoping that one of them may be her dad. The jukebox musical romantic comedy is based on songs from Swedish pop group ABBA.

     

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    2. 27 Dresses (2008)

    The woman who has been a bridesmaid 27 times. Who can forget the scene of Jane Nichols trying on and posing with all of her dresses.

     

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    27 Dresses ? Is am amazing film it is a rom/com and it kind of a new Bridget Jones. This film is about a girl who loves weddings and plans them for everybody else and does everything but she never had time for herself usually. But every wedding she goes to she gets to be a bridesmaid and she keeps all of the bridesmaids dresses and a reporter wants to get close to her and write a story on her but she doesn’t know that she just thinks he is being friendly to her. Amazing storyline and a capturing film for people to see who might like these films. I would recommend this film to people who like romantic comedies as it has a very strong sense of that. #27dressesmovie #filmreviews #weddingdress

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    3. Breaking Dawn: Part One (2011)

    After three movies of the famous love triangle between a human, vampire and werewolf, Edward and Bella finally tie the knot. Their beautiful forest wedding ceremony will be stuck in heads forever.

     

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    Casamento ❤️ #sagacrepusculo #crepusculouniverso #edwardandbellaforever #breakingdawnpart1 #love #amocrepusculo

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    4. The Proposal (2009)

    Technically the engagement and marriage was fake but who doesn’t love a happy ending? Margaret Tate is an executive editor-in-chief of a publishing company. Andrew Paxton is her assistant. Margaret is told that she is going to be deported to Canada. She then persuades Andrew to marry her and he agrees. The ‘couple’ travel to Alaska to visit his family and encounter many awkward situations.


    5. Bride Wars (2009)

    A classic tale of two best friend ‘bridezillas’. Since Olivia and Emma were little they have been planning their dream wedding. Both women get engaged around the same time. Issues arise when both brides-to-be have their eye on the same location, same month and only one date available.


    6. Made of Honor (2008)

    Tom and Hannah have been best friends for over 10 years. He has issues with committing to one woman and she’s dedicated to her job. When Hannah finally gets engaged she asks Tom to be her maid of honour. He then realises that he is in love with Hannah.


    7. My Big Fat Greek Wedding (2002)

    Who can forget the Windex on everything and the very loud family? It is one of the highest-grossing romantic comedies of all time. Fotoula Portokalos and Ian Miller fall in love. Tension rises when the family finds out he is not Greek (and doesn’t eat meat but that’s okay there’s lamb!).


    8. Bridesmaids (2011)

    Prepare to have a laughing fit. This funny film is about a woman who is getting married, her unstable best friend, an annoying new friend and the other unusual bridesmaids.


    Picture: Pexels

    You wake up on the day of your wedding and your skin is on fire. Although it’s not ideal, there are easy ways to soothe and calm skin down in a flash by following a few simple steps and being prepared.

    In advance

    It’s an absolute fact that stress and anxiety causes inflammation, which could potentially worsen conditions like eczema, psoriasis and general sensitivity. It also disrupts your sleep pattern, leading to less efficient time for your skin to recover and, thus, a duller appearance. However, saying you should reduce stress and actually doing it are two very different things. But it is crucial to your skin’s sanity. Helping your body and mind relax a little could be as simple as going for a walk, taking a well-deserved nap or starting your day with a few minutes of meditation. This will help reduce cortisol levels which will bring down inflammation. Along with that, make sure you drink enough water to keep your skin hydrated from the inside and up your energy levels.

    The day before

    Try to keep your skin as clean as possible the day before – that means no make-up, no harsh products, and no crazy masks or treatments. Also, stay out of the sun completely. Avoid salty food and alcohol as this can cause further puffiness. Before you go to bed, make sure your skin is properly cleansed and do a very light exfoliation with a formula that you trust. Lastly, seal in moisture with a good, hydrating moisturiser while your skin is still damp, then call it an early night.

    The day of

    If you’ve been taking proper care of your skin in the months and days leading up to the big day, you should be fine – but Murphy’s Law always has something else planned. Don’t fear, just reach for the ice. Should you wake up with red, itchy and inflamed skin on the morning of your wedding, wash your face with a gentle cream cleanser. It should contain ingredients such as chamomile, aloe vera, and lavender for an ultra calming effect. Then, take a few ice blocks and wrap them in a soft, damp face cloth or muslin cloth. Gently press the ice to irritated areas on your face for a good few minutes to help calm down inflammation and constrict blood vessels. Take this time to relax and lie down, or take a cool bath. Apply a soothing mask with a high aloe vera content afterward and keep it on until you need to start getting your make-up done.

    Our favourite redness-reducing heroes:

    Bioderma Cicabio Creme R236.95 Available at Clicks. Picture: Supplied
    The Body Shop Aloe Soothing Rescue Cream Mask R210 Available at The Body Shop Picture: Supplied
    Aloe Unique Aloe & Honey Gel Mask R119 Available online at aloeunique.co.za Picture: Supplied
    Dermalogica Calm Water Gel R949 Available online at dermalogica.co.za Picture: Supplied

    Image: Unsplash

    After the joy of getting engaged comes the wedding planning. It’s time to start figuring out your budget. Weddings can be quite costly and dresses are not cheap. Especially when you’ve had your eye on something elaborate. As lovely as it may be to have something custom made or ‘fresh out the box’ have you considered buying or renting a second-hand wedding dress?

    Google is everyones best friend but if you’re looking for places to find a second hand wedding gown, have a look at some of these options.

    1. Dejavu Dresses

    This online service offers pre-loved wedding dresses. You are able to select your province and city. There are various styles and prices.

    2. The Wedding Boutique

    Not just your average wedding shop. This store offers the option to buy or hire a wedding dress.

    3. House of silk bridal studio

    Offering a massive collection of gowns to hire. This store ensures that previously owned wedding dresses are still in great condition.

    4. Innovine

    Have a look at all their previously loved wedding dresses. Offering various styles and sizes.

    5. Vintage Lace

    This online wedding dress directory helps brides to be find their perfect gown. Have a look at all the second-hand dresses.

    6. Sell My Wedding Dress

    Purchase your dream dress for a fraction of the price. Find second-hand wedding dresses on this online wedding directory.

    Image: Pexels

    The big day is coming up and you’ve found the perfect dress. Make-up artist is secured and you’re hoping to turn heads. You’re most likely picturing your grand entrance and imagining how stunning you’ll look. Arguably the bride is the center of attention, all eyes are on her.

    So how do you ensure that you will be the best version of yourself on your wedding day?

    A happy bride is a glowing bride. Try to sit back and relax as much as you can. Stress can cause so many things, like break outs, anxiety and just feeling unwell. Ask for help when you need it: that’s one of the reasons your loved ones are there.

    Exercise and eating healthy can give you a natural glow. If working out and loosing weight was a goal then great! Try engaging in fun workouts like Zumba or whatever puts a smile on your face but if you’re unhappy and starving it’s not worth it. Remember: happy bride. 


    Talk about your issues or doubts. You’d be surprised at how much talking about your feelings can help. Grab an ear of one of your nearest and dearest and let it out. They might even have some great advice for the bride-to-be.

    Having your hair and make up done will always make you look and feel beautiful.

    If you’ve gone to a stylist and they offered a variety of hairdos that’s fantastic. Choose whichever hairstyle you are the most comfortable with. If you don’t know much about make-up, then ask your artist what they think would look best. Be sure to have a make-up trial to know what you’re in for. As lovely as Pinterest and Instagram is, not every style and look suits everyone.

    Your comfort is also very important. As beautiful as the big dresses and high heels are, if you’re not going to be comfortable you won’t be happy. Consider what shoe you’d be comfortable in and how much restriction you can handle from your wedding dress.

     

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    Los detalles de Alba ???¡Buenos días! ? de @cristinacanibano ? de @bebas.official_

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    Don’t forget to take a step back and reflect. Unfortunately time seems to go so fast when you’re having fun so your big day will be over before you know it. Be sure to enjoy every single moment.

    Picture: Unsplash

    You and your partner are planning your big day or maybe you’re tagging along with a loved one for their wedding planning. The wedding planner is explaining how everything is going to look. They’re talking about black tie optional and how the bomboniere will have to match the charger and center pieces. What does it all mean?

    1. Appliqué

    This is needlework or various types of material such as lace that is sewn on to larger pieces of fabric. It’s usually for creating texture, to form a pattern or 3-D effect.


    2. Black Tie Optional

    This means that formal wear is optional. You have the option of dressing for the gods or not.

     

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    Sydney + Michael’s blog post is LIVE! Check out this amazing wedding for lots of inspiration from some of the best vendors in Philly! Black and White has never looked more glamorous! Link in profile ? . Design + Coordination: @sarareadesign Photography: @mlepictures Branding + Design: @house_of_catherine Floral Design: @ramfloral Music: @eastcoastentertainment @ece_laura @phillys_finest_band @phillystring Ceremony Venue: @headhouse_shambles Reception Venue: @lapegatfringe Make Up: @makeupbyemilydimant Hair: @marissagraceartistry Rentals: @partyrentalltd Cake: @parkavecake Ice Cream: @weckerlys Dress: @pronovias Jewelry: @lpriorijewelry Shoes: @manoloblahnikhg Champagne: @therovingbar . . #philadelphiawedding #phillyvendors #phillyinlove #justsaidyes #blacktiewedding #luxurywedding #pawedding #philadelphiaweddingphotographer #oldcityphilly #phillywedding #theknot #firstsandlasts #thedailywedding #brides #bridesofinstagram #modernwedding #theknotrealweddings #philawedding

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    3. Bomboniere

    A wedding favour in Italian.


    4. Boutonniere

    A spray of flowers placed on the left lapel.


    5. Bustle

    This is something added to the wedding dress in order to make walking and dancing easier. It can be hooks, buttons or ribbons. The bustle will gather the wedding dress train or any parts of the dress that may get in the way.

     

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    The Tuesday after a holiday Monday is about as hard to figure out as a 16 point bustle! ? Someone tell me I’m not the ONLY one on the struggle bus today! ? Thankful today for business besties who are patient when you’re late for planning meeting (looking at you @rosetrailimages) and client gifting made easy and painless thanks to @greetabl! ? Whats getting YOU through this Monday of Tuesday’s?? . . . . . #imagesbyamberr #raleighweddingphotographer #raleigh #wedding #photographer #raleighwedding #raleighphotographer #weddingphotographer #ncwedding #ncweddingphotographer #destinationweddingphotographer #blackfemalephotographer #wokeweddingpro #letsgetmarried #weregettingmarried #isaidyes #curvyweddingphotographer #holidayweekend #holidayhangover #backatit #weddingdress #weddingbustle #weddinggown #strugglebus #greetablinsider #southernbrideandgroom

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    6. Celebrant

    This is the person who officiates your wedding ceremony. It can be someone who is ordained, a judge or member of the clergy. This person will also sign your marriage certificates.


    7. Charger

    The awkward plate that you may see some people dishing up on. It’s just for decorative purposes. Your actual plate will be placed on top of the charger.

     

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    ))#chargerplates #wineglass #wineglasses

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    8. Escort Card Display

    This display helps guests find their assigned seats.


    9. Fondant

    Fondue? Or the gooey chocolate cake-like dessert? Neither. Fondant is the edible thick paste made of sugar and water. It’s used to cover cakes and often used to create a canvas to work on. It can be made into various colours and shapes.


    10. Garland

    Basically decoration. It’s flowers or greenery that is used to embellish various things. You can add it to pretty much anything at your wedding from candles to doorways.


    11. Gobo lighting

    Have you ever seen patterns projected onto the floor or the wall at an event? Gobo is the stencil or template that is placed in front of a light to create the beautiful patterns and shapes you see. You and your partner can even have a gobo made with your monogram.


    12. Nosegay

    A nosegay is a small handheld bouquet of flowers. Usually held by bridesmaids. The name comes from back in the day when the nosegay was used to appeal to the nose. Directly translated it could mean nose-happy!


    13. Procession

    This is the entire procedure of the bridesmaids leading down the aisle and finally the bride.


    14. Tablescape

    Remember the charger? Used for table decoration. Tablescape is the entire table design. Everything including chargers, candles, flowers and various other embellishments. Your tablescape should make a statement and colour coordinate with the rest of the wedding or reception.

     

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    Mesmerized by this twinkling reception in a cobblestone courtyard @hummingbirdnestranch. Swipe for a peek at this #tablescape + see the full minimal, modern wedding on our blog! Photography: @isaiahandtaylorphotography | Venue: @hummingbirdnestranch | Designer/Wedding Planner: @nicolegeorgeevents | Floral Design: @12olivefloral | Hair & Makeup Artist: @juna_beauty | Rentals: @sigpartyrentals | Speciality Rentals: @circarentals | Catering: @bludsosbbq | Cake: @susiecakesbakery | DJ: @restlessnites #modernwedding #minimalwedding #weddingvenue #weddingreception #weddingtablescape #lawedding #minimalistbride #summerwedding #weddingtrends # wedding #californiawedding #californiaweddingvenue #summerbride #driedflowers #hummingbirdnestranch #southerncaliforniawedding #socalwedding

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    Picture: Pixabay