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In Planning

10 Tips for your beach wedding

January 15, 2026 No Comments

If it’s always been your dream to recite your vows on the shoreline of a pristine beach, South Africa offers an assortment of amazing spots for your nuptials. But because your wedding backdrop forms part of the country’s natural landscape, there are a few logistical challenges to keep in mind. Here, we help you suss out the big ones.

1 Legalities

Municipal rules say that you’ll need a permit to host a wedding (or any other event) on the beachfront, which often comes with a fee. This is a crucial expense to add to your budget and should be done as early as possible to ensure you meet all the necessary deadlines.

2 Date

Consider the time of year and season of your proposed date. While the winter months (generally May to September) can be colder, the summer months do mean beaches will be more crowded as tourists and holidaymakers flock to our shores.

3 Timing

The behaviour of the tide should be your guideline for setting a time for your ceremony. Bear in mind that even if the tide is low, strong winds will necessitate moving your ceremony indoors so ensure you have a backup plan for the day too.

4 Decor

It goes without saying that summer is the most popular beach wedding season so expect to spend some time in the outdoor heat. To prevent yourself and your guests from baking in the sun, have a few umbrellas or a gazebo installed. These can be beautifully ornamented with anything from wire hearts to ribbons to strings of shells.

5 Confetti

Being sprinkled with confetti as you take your first steps as husband and wife will undoubtedly be one of the most utopian moments of the day. Remember that when you’re at the seaside, biodegradable confetti is a must. Can’t find any that’s biodegradable? Bubbles are a cute substitute that will be enjoyed by both kids and adults.

6 Bridalwear

Yes, we know that Cinderella looked ravishing in her wedding ball gown but then again, she never got married on a beach. A lightweight dress minus the layers of tulle, along with sandals or even going barefoot, will not only be more practical for oceanside weddings, but can create a whimsical and angelic look.

7 Dress code

While you can’t completely control what your guests will wear to your wedding, you can help them avoid the worst by specifying which type of attire would be fitting. Like you, the ladies would be better off foregoing full-skirted evening dresses in favour of flowing cocktail frocks while the gents should opt for shorts suits in bright colours. The gentlemen would look dashing and be more comfy in shorts suits or chinos, instead of tuxedos, to match the relaxed vibe of your ceremony.

8 Catering

Facilities for caterers may not be in abundance near the beach, so choose menu options that can be served cold. Think oysters, salmon skewers and fresh green salads. Yum! If you like to keep things hot, consider a spitbraai or a separate venue that’s close to the beach where the ceremony will be held.

9 Booze

If you’re planning on clinking a few glasses of bubbly with your feet in the water, think again as consuming alcohol on South African beaches is forbidden. Try booking a beach venue with an indoor reception area that has sea views and where your guests can still enjoy a tipple.

10 Entertainment

The sight of glowing lanterns floating away into the dazzling night sky is utterly romantic while a fireworks display above the waters is sure to wow your guests. But as these activities do include the use of fire, they may be ruled out by certain municipalities. Be sure to check with your local authority when applying for your permit and opt for more eco-friendly entertainment options such as a band or friendly games of beach volleyball for your guests.

ALSO SEE: Wedding-worthy fashion from the Golden Globes 2026

Wedding-worthy fashion from the Golden Globes 2026

Feature image: Getúlio Moraes/Unsplash

In Honeymoons

How to pack for your honeymoon

January 14, 2026 No Comments

There’s an easy trick to organised packing and once you know it, you’ll never need to wrestle with your luggage again. Four easy words: line, lay, roll, and fold.

Line the bottom of your suitcase with shoes and tech gear in bags. Fill the center with rolled-up jeans and jackets.

Lay dresses and pants lengthwise on top of the first layer, letting the ends hang over the sides of the luggage.

Roll shirts and jerseys. Place them on top of the second layer and cover them with the ends of the dresses and pants from the layer underneath.

Fold delicates. Place toiletries and lingerie into separate bags and set it all on top.

Keep in Mind

1. Liquids should be poured into 100ml containers and stored in resealable bags.

2. Make sure you lock your luggage with a safe and reliable lock (you don’t want luggage going walk-abouts).

3. Going there you may be light on luggage, but upon return your bags will most likely be filled with honeymoon memorabilia. Check your airline’s website to see the size and weight restrictions to avoid paying a hefty penalty fee.

ALSO SEE: Keep your hair healthy on your summer honeymoon

Keep your hair healthy on your summer honeymoon

Adapted from Martha Stewart Weddings

Feature image: Pexels

In BRIDESMADES DRESSES

Wedding-worthy fashion from the Golden Globes 2026

January 13, 2026 No Comments

The Golden Globes 2026 once again proved that red carpets and wedding aisles aren’t worlds apart. From sculptural couture gowns that could effortlessly double as modern wedding dresses to sharply tailored suiting offering fresh inspiration for grooms and groomsmen alike, this year’s looks were a masterclass in ceremony-worthy style. Add in fashion-forward moments perfect for bridesmaids and wedding party outfits, and it’s clear: Hollywood’s biggest night delivered no shortage of ideas for couples planning a celebration that feels both timeless and of-the-moment.

While many of these show-stopping dresses weren’t designed in traditional bridal shades, their silhouettes, textures and detailing translate beautifully into white, ivory and soft neutral palettes , making them perfect reference points for brides, bridesmaids and wedding parties seeking fashion-forward inspiration with lasting appeal.

Oscar Isaac in The Row and Bvlgari jewlery — Photo: WWD/Gilbert Flores/2026GG/Penske Media

Photo: WWD/Tommaso Boddi/2026GG/Penske Media

Photo: WWD/Gilbert Flores/2026GG/Penske Media

Photo: WWD/Jesse Grant/2026GG/Penske Media

ALSO SEE: Looking for wedding hairstyle inspo for all hair lengths? We’ve got you covered

Looking for wedding hairstyle inspo for all hair lengths? We’ve got you covered

Featured image: Golden Globes/Instagram

In Advice

Why personal vows are stealing the spotlight

January 9, 2026 No Comments

Growing up, I remember watching old wedding videos of my parents, uncles and aunts. Recorded on bulky video tapes that required patience and a steady hand to rewind. While fashion, cakes and decor have clearly evolved, one thing remained constant across every recording. The traditional vows.

Decades later, vows are still the emotional anchor of a wedding day. Yet how couples choose to share them has changed. While traditional wording remains popular, many modern couples are embracing personal vows.

There is something deeply romantic about that choice.

For some, speaking deeply personal words in front of a room full of people feels daunting. Private personal vows remove that pressure, allowing couples to speak honestly, emotionally and without restraint.

Personal vows can take many forms. Some couples choose to exchange them during a first look, before the ceremony begins. Others prefer to write their vows in letters, read quietly on the morning of the wedding or the day before. Choosing to keep personal vows private does not mean excluding guests from the meaning of the ceremony. Many couples still choose to exchange traditional vows in front of loved ones, allowing their commitment to be witnessed, while saving their most personal words for a moment shared only between the two of them.

This shift also reflects a broader change in how couples approach their weddings. Less about tradition for tradition’s sake, and more about intention. Personal vows, whether shared publicly or privately, become less of a performance and more of a genuine exchange.

What makes personal vows so compelling is not when or where they are shared, but the freedom they offer. There are no rules, no required wording and no audience to consider.

Whether spoken aloud, written down or quietly exchanged, personal vows remind us that at the heart of every wedding is a promise. And sometimes, the most powerful promises are the ones shared in private.

ALSO SEE: Looking for wedding hairstyle inspo for all hair lengths? We’ve got you covered

Looking for wedding hairstyle inspo for all hair lengths? We’ve got you covered

Feature image: Pexels

In Advice

The hangover kit wedding favour: Essential items to include

January 8, 2026 No Comments

A wedding day is a time for celebration. Chances are, however, some might celebrate a bit too hard. Wedding hangovers can be pretty harsh for your guests, so why not help them recover?

Wedding hangover kits have become popular wedding favours in recent years. What’s great about this favour is that it’s easily DIY’ed, and couples can add whatever they want.

If you plan on making your own kit, consider adding some of these items:

– A bottle of water to prevent a dry throat

– An eye mask to reduce puffiness

– Plasters for those blisters after dancing all night long

– A granola bar for energy

– Sunglasses to hide those bloodshot eyes

– Gum or mouth wash

– A mini bottle of alcohol because… you know, hair of the dog

Feature image: Unsplash

In Beauty

Looking for wedding hairstyle inspo for all hair lengths? We’ve got you covered

January 7, 2026 No Comments

For many women, the wedding hairstyle is one of the first details to take shape once the engagement ring is on. It sets the tone for the overall bridal look, influencing everything from the dress silhouette to the veil or hair accessories that follow.

This image-led edit brings together wedding hairstyle inspiration for most hair types and lengths, with visuals designed to guide the mood rather than dictate the rules.

Short hair

Buzzcuts, bobs and everything in between prove that long hair isn’t the only option for wedding hairstyles. There are plenty of ways to work with shorter lengths to create chic, polished or playful looks.

Medium length and long hair

Medium and long hair naturally lends itself to more styling options, from effortless updos and loose waves to bedazzled or understated, natural looks.

ALSO SEE: Keep your hair healthy on your summer honeymoon

Keep your hair healthy on your summer honeymoon

Feature image: Jonathan Boba/Pexels

In Advice

How to choose the right wedding chair decorations

January 6, 2026 No Comments

When planning your wedding decor, it is easy to focus on flowers, tables and lighting while overlooking one detail that guests interact with constantly: the chairs. Wedding chair decorations are a subtle yet powerful way to tie your theme together, add texture to your venue and create visual interest from ceremony to reception.

Why wedding chair decorations matter

Chairs make up a large part of your venue’s visual landscape. Decorated chairs help:

Define the overall wedding aesthetic
Frame the aisle and ceremony focal point
Elevate standard venue furniture
Add softness and cohesion to the space
Enhance photographs from every angle

Ceremony chair decorations

Popular wedding chair decoration ideas include:

Floral posies or small arrangements tied to aisle chairs
Flowing fabric such as chiffon, voile or organza
Greenery like eucalyptus, olive branches or ivy
Simple ribbon bows for a classic and understated look

For a modern approach, decorate only the first few rows or alternate chairs to keep the look refined and uncluttered.

Reception chair decorations

Reception chair decor is usually more subtle, allowing tablescapes to take centre stage. Instead of decorating every chair, many couples focus on the bridal table or sweetheart table.

Consider:

Custom Mr and Mrs chair signs
Hanging floral installations behind the couple
Draped fabric over the backs of feature chairs
Statement chairs that stand apart from the rest

This approach keeps the space elegant while still highlighting the couple.

Chair covers, sashes or bare chairs?

One of the biggest decisions couples face is whether to cover their chairs.

Chair covers are ideal if:

The venue chairs do not suit your aesthetic
You want a uniform and polished look
Your wedding style is formal or traditional

Bare chairs work beautifully when:

The chairs are already stylish, such as ghost chairs, wood or cross back chairs
Your wedding style is modern, rustic or minimalist
You want a lighter, more relaxed feel

Sometimes the most effective wedding chair decoration is letting beautiful furniture speak for itself.

Floral and greenery chair styling trends

Trending styles include:

Single stem florals tied with silk ribbon
Asymmetrical greenery placements
Dried flowers for a textured, bohemian look
Neutral florals that complement the bouquet and table arrangements

Keeping florals consistent with the rest of your decor ensures a cohesive result.

Personalised wedding chair decorations

Personal touches make chair decor feel meaningful rather than purely decorative.

Ideas include:

Reserved signs for family members
Custom calligraphy tags
Cultural or symbolic elements
Subtle nods to your love story

These details photograph beautifully and add emotional depth to your ceremony and reception.

Practical tips before you decide

Before committing to wedding chair decorations, consider:

How many chairs will be visible in key photos
Whether decor will be reused from ceremony to reception
Setup and breakdown logistics
Your overall decor budget

Chair decor does not need to be elaborate to be effective. A few well placed details often create the strongest visual impact.

ALSO SEE: 2026 Wedding trends shaping South African celebrations

2026 Wedding trends shaping South African celebrations

Feature image: The Visionary Vows/Pexels

In Advice

2026 Wedding trends shaping South African celebrations

January 5, 2026 No Comments

Wedding trends rarely land the same way across borders, and in South Africa, couples tend to favour celebrations that feel grounded, expressive and connected to place. Weddings are becoming less about spectacle and more about intention, with design choices that balance beauty, meaning and practicality.

These 2026 wedding trends reflect how South African couples are redefining their wedding days in ways that feel considered, personal and distinctly local.

A richer approach to colour

Neutral palettes remain popular, but in 2026 they are being layered with deeper, earth-led tones. Shades such as olive, terracotta, chocolate brown and warm caramel are appearing across florals, stationery and table styling, often lifted with a subtle accent colour rather than bold contrast.

This approach works particularly well in natural settings, whether in the Winelands, along the coast or in the bush, where colour can enhance the environment rather than compete with it.

Bridal fashion with individuality

wedding trends — Photo: Hasan Hasanzadeh/Unsplash

South African brides are increasingly confident in their choices. Structured bodices, detachable skirts, statement sleeves and refined detailing are replacing overly embellished gowns. While white remains dominant, softer tones and textural fabrics are becoming more visible, especially for second looks or smaller celebrations.

Dress codes are also loosening, allowing guests to interpret the aesthetic while still respecting the formality of the day.

Food that reflects place and season

Dining continues to move away from lengthy, formal sit-down meals. In 2026, couples are favouring seasonal menus, shared-style dining and relaxed pacing that allows guests to move, mingle and enjoy the atmosphere.

Locally sourced ingredients, open-fire cooking, curated wine pairings and thoughtful late-night offerings reflect a growing appreciation for food as part of the overall experience, without becoming overly performative.

Tablescapes that feel natural, not overstyled

Long tables, considered linen choices and layered textures remain central to reception styling. Rather than highly theatrical setups, South African weddings lean towards tablescapes that feel refined yet effortless.

Ceramic tableware, glassware with character and floral arrangements that echo the surrounding landscape create settings that photograph beautifully while remaining functional and welcoming.

Florals with purpose

Floral design in 2026 is less about abundance for its own sake and more about placement and impact. Grounded installations, sculptural arrangements and aisle meadows are favoured over towering structures.

Florals are increasingly used to guide guests through a space, frame key moments or highlight architectural features, particularly at venues where the natural backdrop already does much of the work.

Private vows gain popularity

Private vow exchanges are becoming one of the most meaningful 2026 wedding trends. Many couples are choosing to share their vows quietly before the ceremony, allowing for an intimate moment away from guests and cameras.

Personalisation without excess

Rather than personalised everything, couples are choosing a few meaningful details and doing them well. Handwritten notes, subtle monograms, custom menus or a carefully chosen ceremony reading often replace multiple decorative elements.

Photography with an editorial eye

South African photographers continue to lead the shift towards a documentary, editorial style. Natural light, movement and unposed moments are prioritised, resulting in imagery that feels timeless and emotive rather than overly styled.

Smaller guest lists, stronger experiences

While large weddings still have their place, many 2026 celebrations are becoming more intimate. Smaller guest lists allow couples to invest in quality, detail and time with their guests, particularly at destination venues.

What’s quietly fading

Highly coordinated bridal parties, rigid timelines and overly formal traditions are becoming less common. Couples are choosing flexibility, comfort and authenticity, shaping days that feel reflective of who they are rather than what’s expected.

ALSO SEE: The wedding colour trend that quietly won us over in 2025

The wedding colour trend that quietly won us over in 2025

Feature image: Unsplash

In BRIDESMADES DRESSES

The wedding colour trend that quietly won us over in 2025

December 18, 2025 No Comments

Soft neutrals will always have a place in weddings, but 2025 has welcomed a richer shade into the spotlight. Chocolate brown has emerged as a key wedding colour trend. Now, we must admit, brown wasn’t at the top of our list of favourite colours, but seeing how it has been used at weddings made us fall in love a little.

Why chocolate brown works for weddings

Chocolate brown strikes a rare balance. It feels warm without overpowering a palette and refined without feeling cold. As a wedding colour trend, it offers something different while still photographing beautifully and ageing well over time.

It also complements a wide range of skin tones and transitions effortlessly between seasons, making it a strong choice for couples wanting to move beyond predictable whites and beiges without committing to bold colour.

Bridesmaid dresses in chocolate brown

Bridesmaid dresses are one of the easiest and most impactful ways to incorporate this wedding colour trend. Chocolate brown is flattering, wearable and instantly cohesive, whether styled in matching gowns or mixed silhouettes.

Satin and silk elevate the shade for more formal celebrations, while chiffon and matte fabrics soften the look for relaxed settings. Paired with gold jewellery, natural makeup and neutral bouquets, the result feels polished but unfussy.

Using chocolate brown in wedding decor

In decor, chocolate brown works best as a grounding layer rather than the main focus. Table linens, runners or napkins in warm brown tones add depth when paired with white crockery, candlelight and natural textures.

For ceremonies, subtle brown accents through wood elements, fabric details or earthy floral arrangements help anchor the space. Keeping lighter tones like ivory or blush in the mix ensures the overall look remains fresh and inviting.

Stationery and styling details

This wedding colour trend shines in the details. Chocolate brown adds richness to stationery through textured paper, warm ink tones or wax seals, setting a refined tone from the first impression.

It also translates beautifully into styling touches such as signage, cake detailing or groom accessories like brown leather shoes or belts, creating cohesion without feeling overly styled.

Colours that pair well with chocolate brown

Part of chocolate brown’s appeal lies in its versatility. Paired with cream or stone, it creates a timeless, neutral palette. Blush and dusty rose add softness, while olive green, terracotta or black introduce a more contemporary edge.

Metallic accents like gold or bronze lift the palette further, adding warmth and subtle contrast without overpowering the look.

ALSO SEE: 7 Wedding artists who turn weddings into works of art

7 Wedding artists who turn weddings into works of art

Feature image: Show Me Your Mumu/Pinterest

In WEDDING FAVOURS

7 Wedding artists who turn weddings into works of art

December 17, 2025 No Comments

Your wedding day is filled with moments that deserve more than photographs alone. From live painters capturing your ceremony as it unfolds to caricature artists creating keepsakes for your guests, wedding artists add a layer of creativity, entertainment, and meaning to your celebration.

We spotlight some of the most sought after wedding artists in South Africa, each offering something beautifully unique.

Live wedding painters

• Danielle Jordaan Studio

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A post shared by Danielle Jordaan Studio • LIVE WEDDING PAINTERS (@daniellejordaanstudio)

Danielle Jordaan and her team are known for elegant live wedding paintings that capture key moments from ceremonies and receptions. Couples can choose whether they want their first kiss, vows, or first dance brought to life on canvas.
Instagram: @daniellejordaanstudio
Website: www.daniellejordaan.com

• Art by Sunel

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A post shared by Sunel Schreuder (@sunel_paintsweddings)

Specialising in watercolour live wedding paintings, Art by Sunel captures the softness and emotion of your day. Sunel also offers guest portraits that work beautifully as personalised wedding favours.
Based in Centurion, Gauteng
Instagram: @sunel_paintsweddings
Website: www.artbysunel.co.za

• The Wedding Painter SA

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A post shared by Karen Bareuther – The wedding Painter South Africa (@the_wedding_painter_sa)

Focused on live wedding and event painting, Karen transforms fleeting moments into lasting artworks that become meaningful home pieces long after the wedding day.
Instagram: @the_wedding_painter_sa
Website: www.liveweddingpaint.com

Caricature and portrait artists

• Cartoon portraits by Gary Carvalho

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A post shared by Gary Carvalho (@live_cartoon_portraits)

Gary is a highly experienced caricature artist who creates quick, expressive portraits that entertain guests while offering a personalised keepsake. Ideal for cocktail hour or reception entertainment.
Instagram: @livecartoonportraits
Website: www.livecartoonportraits.com

• Ted Key Caricatures and illustration

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A post shared by Ted Key Caricatures (@keycaricatures)

Ted offers a blend of live scene illustration and caricature portraits, capturing both atmosphere and personality. His work adds a creative, interactive element to weddings.
Instagram: @keycaricatures
Website: www.keycaricatures.com

• Besmitten Caricatures by Karina van der Walt

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A post shared by Karina van der Walt | Caricatures | Funny & Flattering Cartoons (@b3smitten)

Karina’s lively caricatures are full of personality and charm. Her work can be incorporated as guest entertainment or custom illustrated wedding keepsakes.
Instagram: @besmittencaricatures
Website: www.besmitten.co.za

• Martinus van Tee

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A post shared by Martinus van Tee (@martinusvantee)

Known for his energetic and fast paced live caricature style, Martinus keeps guests engaged while producing fun, expressive artwork throughout the event.
Instagram: @martinusvantee
Website: www.martinusvantee.com

How to choose the right wedding artist

Decide whether you want art as live entertainment, a keepsake for yourselves, or personalised favours for guests
Consider the artist’s style and how it complements your wedding aesthetic
Book early, especially for peak season dates
Think about placement during the day, such as cocktail hour or reception downtime

ALSO SEE: The rectangular wedding cake trend (and why we’re loving it)

The rectangular wedding cake trend (and why we’re loving it)

Feature image: Danielle Jordaan/Facebook