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Weddings

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Cape Town’s own olympic athlete Wayde van Niekerk made headlines across the country when he became the 400m record holder. He achieved a lifetime dream that day. It seems that the runner is set on making all of his wishes come true, as he found and married the girl of his dreams too. We take a look at his wedding, marriage, and more.

In December 2016, the Olympian got engaged to his girlfriend of 3-years, Chesnay Campbell. Taking to Twitter with excitement, van Niekerk posted a video showing off the ring, with the words “SHE SAID YES” written in bold across the footage.

Shortly thereafter, Van Niekerk announced that he would be concentrating on plans for his wedding, and shared no other details other than the fact that he was very excited to marry the love of his life.

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In October 2017, the pair tied the knot at the Bloemfontein Botanical Gardens. They had over 200 guests join them, including other sporting starts such as Siya Kolisi, Caster Semenya, and TV personality Siv Ngesi.

In a tweet Van Niekerk said, “Can’t wait to spend the rest of my life with you,” accompanied by a black and white picture of him with his new wife on their wedding day.

“So blessed to start this next adventure with the girl of my dreams!” he said.

Chesnay detailed how the pair planned their wedding.

On the decor, she said: “When it came to picking a wedding planner, everyone suggested one person, @tonypengofficial. I’ve never been the girl who dreamt and planned her wedding since she was 10 years old & Wayde kinda just told me that I can do whatever I want to, as long as he can pick his own suit. ? I met with Tony and told him all I want is for it to be white and as long as everything is pretty, he can do whatever he wants to,” she explained.

“The end result was everything I didn’t know I needed. He kept it clean and classy. Simplicity at its best. We didn’t want the over-the-top “celebrity” wedding because that’s not who we are. We wanted our guest to be able to communicate without having big plants & decor in their faces. We wanted it to feel intimate and comfy. It was the details in the simplicity that made it the most beautiful night ever.”

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About the reception, Chesnay said, “I can’t say anything else but that our reception was the biggest party ever. Having all our close friends and family around us made it very beautiful and super fun. Everyone danced. I mean, EVERYONE danced.”

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On the wedding day as a whole, Chesney said it was beautiful. “An ice cold day at the end of October ( I’ve always wanted an autumn wedding and God listens to his children so I will take all the blame, sorry) But I’d do it all over again even with the cold weather. What’s a cold breeze if you’re marrying your best friend?”

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The couple are still as in love as ever, and Wayde shows off his wife very often.

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Image: Twitter / Wayde van Niekerk (@WaydeDreamer)

South African politician Mmusi Maimane has reached a special milestone with wife Natalie. The pair have been married for an incredible 15 years.

Taking to social media, Maimane expressed his love and appreciation for his wife.

“Today, I have been married to this girl for 15 years. It’s been a journey and I’m grateful to God she has been a champion through it. She the strength of our family and an incredible friend to me. We got married and never knew where the journey would take us, we are here today and now to the next 15. Ka lerato,” he wrote on Instagram.

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The pair met at the Community Ministries church in Muldersdrift, north of Johannesburg, although neither can remember much of their first encounter. They remained friends for years before beginning a romantic relationship. Within six months of dating, Mmusi popped the question and the pair wed on August 6, 2005, at the church where they met.
They had their white wedding on the Saturday and a traditional wedding on the Sunday, during which Natalie was given a new name from her in-laws – Rethabile, which means ‘happy family’ in Setswana.

The pair have two children together: Kgalaletso and Daniel.

 Feature image: Twitter / Mmusi Maimane

While the term ‘laminating’ may remind you of your days at school, it’s gotten a new upgrade in the beauty world. Brow lamination has risen as a less-permanent alternative to microblading, allowing people to have the eyebrows of their dreams.

If you’ve got pesky eyebrows that won’t stay in place no matter how much eyebrow gel you apply, brow lamination might just be for you. Brides who get these procedure done can rest assured their eyebrows will be on point for their wedding day.

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What is brow lamination?

Brow lamination is almost like a perm for your eyebrows, which will leave the hairs structured into a particular shape. The hairs are brushed straight up and a chemical treatment is applied to retain it. Once removed, the brow hairs appear fluffy and feathery.

At first, the brows can appear quite overwhelming and straight. However, they settle within a few days.

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Who is the ideal customer?

This treatment is ideal for people with bushy brows that follow irreguar patterns as it trains the hair to go in one direction. It’s also good for those with finer, more sparse brows as it can create the effect of fulller brows.

Another bonus is that it’s not permanent, as it typically lasts for eight weeks as your eyebrow hairs grow out. Microblading, however, lasts for about a year and the procedure can be painful, which deters many.

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How does it work?

This treatment is similar to a lash lift, and is not painful although it may slightly irritate sensitive skin. Two treatment solutions are applied to the brows. First, a keratin-infused straightening treatment is brushed through the hairs and left on for 20 minutes to soften them and make them more malleable. In the next step, the hairs are brushed into the desired shape and another solution is applied to keep them in place.

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How to maintain it?

For the first 24 hours after your appointment, it is important to avoid getting your brow hairs wet. Thus, one should avoid exercising, swimming, going out in the rain or wetting their face when bathing. You should also condition the brows daily with a lash serum, ask your beautician to recommend a good product.

Feature image: Unsplash

Having to cancel your wedding is a sad feat. A Johannesburg man, however, is not letting it get the best of him. Rather, it has brought out the kinder side of him.

Matthew Boshoff from Johannesburg has unfortunately had to cancel his wedding due to unforeseen circumstances. After contacting his wedding venue to cancel his package, he found out they would not give him a refund.

Instead of letting this annoy him, he has decided to make the best of it through an act of kindness. Now, he hopes to find a couple in need to gift his wedding package to, according to Jacaranda FM.

Taking to Facebook to find a couple to spread the love to, Boshoff wrote, “Hello Facebook peeps, I need your help. Due to unforeseen circumstance, I have to cancel my wedding. The venue will not give me a refund but I have spoken to them about gifting my package away and they are ok with this. So, I am looking for a couple who is planning on getting married and maybe struggling a bit financially. I would like to help them with their special day by giving away my full package at no extra cost.”

The package, from Makiti Wedding Venue, includes several things like:

– 60 people

– The venue hire

– The catering (starter, main and dessert) the options can be changed to cater to your needs. (The cake will still be required on your side)

– Makiti’s beautiful outside chapel by the river

– Starter drinks for after the ceremony (these can be changed as well)

– Open bar afterwards

– A corkage fee has been paid for 16 wine bottles, this amount may change depending on your wine selection.

– All the decor already paid for; floral, vases, cutlery, cake stand etc. If you would like your own decor you can liaison with the decor lady and change as you please.

A professional photographer

Boshoff said that this is essentially a full package, which excludes only the cake and a pastor. The chosen couple will have to pick a date that falls between a Monday and a Thursday, exclusive of public holidays.

“You are able to change any and all options as you please and any extra costs will have to be covered by you,” he added.

“Please share this far and wide so I can find an appropriate couple to give this away to,” he urged.

If you think you know of a couple deserving of this treat, or if you think that couple is you, email Matthew directly to [email protected].

Image: Unsplash

The massive explosion that recently shattered the streets of Beirut, Lebanon, caught many off-guard. People were simply going about their days as the shockwave swept through the city. One bride was in the process of filming an outdoor photo session in her wedding gown just as the explosion took place.

Israa Seblani, a doctor who works in the United States arrived in Beirut three weeks ago for her wedding, according to The Guardian. Seblani, who is the bride in the video, was in the city’s Saifi Village with her wedding photographer, Mahmoud Nakib, recording a film of her in her wedding dress as the explosion took place.

Speaking to CNN, Nakib said they heard an explosion and thought it was far away, so they continued filming. As it turns out, that was only the first explosion. “In just one second, the sky turned black and we heard the second explosion,” he said.

The shockwave caused by the explosion created a massive gust through the city, which was caught by Nakib on his film.

“The area I was in – within matter of seconds – it went from beautiful place to ghost town filled with dust, shattered glass and people yelling [and] bleeding. It was like a nightmare scene,” he explained.

“What happened during the explosion here – there is no word to explain … I was shocked, I was wondering what happened, am I going to die? How am I going to die?” the bride said to Reuters.

Everyone who was out filming with them made their way inside, and they are all safe and unharmed.

“We are still in shock … I have never heard anything similar to the sound of this explosion,” said  Seblani.

“There is a lot of damage, many people were killed and wounded. But also if I want to look at us, myself, my husband, the photographer – how we escaped unharmed, I thank God for protecting us.”

The footage has been obtained by Reuters, watch it here:

Image: Screenshot from video

Ever wondered why your hair stays cleaner, smoother and glossier after a salon wash? Well, wonder no more. Here’s how you can wash your hair like a pro at home:

Detangle first

Before you wet your hair, it’s essential you detangle hair gently first. Starting at the ends, gently work your way up to the roots so that you don’t have to detangle hair when it’s wet, and therefore more vulnerable. If you have some extra time, apply a few drops of a nourishing oil, like almond, to the ends and distribute with your comb as you work upwards.
How to wash your hair like a colourist
Source: Unsplash

Lather up

Something that’s seemingly easy to do has a right and a wrong way too. Taking your time is key in making sure you’re washing your scalp properly, and being super gentle when creating a lather with your shampoo. Don’t rub hair vigorously, but rather focus on washing your scalp properly and then squeezing the shampoo through the lengths. If it doesn’t foam up right away, add a little more water to your scalp and start massaging again. If it’s absolutely necessary, shampoo for a second time.
How to wash your hair like a colourist
Source: Pexels

Honeymoon hair

Using products specifically designed for colour-treated hair will make a world’s difference in keeping your colour as vibrant as it looked on your wedding day. Look for products that have a low pH level, which will enable better colour retention and softer, smoother strands.
The Invigo Color Brilliance range from Wella is a great option for those wanting to keep their salon colour in tip top shape. With 7 weeks of colour protection and instant vibrancy, you’ll get high-performance results at home, while keeping your wallet happy. Find it HERE.
How to wash your hair like a colourist
Source: supplied

Rinse, rinse, rinse

The biggest difference between a salon wash and an at-home wash, is also the most simple – the rinse. Women, especially brides with a million things to do, are strapped for time and rush the process of properly rinsing shampoo and conditioner from their hair. By rinsing the product properly and making sure there’s no more residue on your scalp, your roots will stay fresh longer and you won’t need to wash as often.

Never skip conditioner

Hair that’s moisturised will reflect light better, so that you hair looks shinier and healthier. That said, less is definitely more in this case, so go easy on the conditioner. Take a small amount and only apply it to the ends, so that it doesn’t weigh your roots down. Then, take a deep breath and rinse with cold water to lock the cuticles and boost the shine.
Written by: Leandri de Kock
Feature image: Unsplash

If you and your partner are avid campers, you might want your big day to reflect your adventurous spirits. With summer drawing near, it’s the perfect time to have an outdoor wedding.

Celebrating your love for each other with your friends and family out in nature, doing what you love. What more could you want?

You are also likely to save some money as your down-to-earth decor, food and attire will be more budget-friendly. Here are some tips to help you plan.

Firstly, you’ll need to keep some practical things in mind:

– If your wedding is in a forest, mountain or bushveld location, the terrain might be uneven and high heels are not ideal.

– There will probably be bugs and mosquitoes!

– Only make fires where it is legal and safe to do so.

– Check the weather for wind and rain.

– If it is a remote location, clear directions will need to be given to guests and vendors.

– If you expect guests to hike anywhere at all, make sure everyone is fit and healthy enough to do so. Also, make sure everyone is told this information explicitly and are comfortable with it.

How to set up the perfect camping style wedding:

– Attire

You can decide how formal or informal you want the wedding to be. It is likely to be slightly more informal, as camping is usually a low-key activity. Dress comfortably, but don’t skimp! A boho style works well. You can still wear that magical dress – it’s your day after all. Inform your guests that ‘smart casual’ is accepted.

– Food

Camp food time! Think slow roasts, pies or even something as simple as hot dogs or burgers. This is not a 5-star buffet. Don’t forget to roast marshmallows! Everything should be quick and easy, but flavourful and simply delicious. Speak to your caterer about what’s feasible for your location, and try stick with food that can be prepped off-site beforehand.

– Drinks

During summer, think cold and refreshing soft drinks and beers. Get creative with the drinks station to keep with the theme, such as a rowboat or hammock. You can also use picnic baskets to hold drinks or hand out coffee flasks or travel mugs for guests to drink from.

– Decor

This is where rough meets chic. You can have all the adventure, plus all the beauty! Let nature be your backdrop, and keep extras minimal. Decorate tables with wooden items and use theme-inspired pieces like lanterns, flashlights and boots for a cute feel. Stick with greens, browns and other neutral colours to blend with the environment.

Images: Pinterest

Featured image: Unsplash

A story filled with plot twists, self-discovery, and new beginnings, Samira Wiley and Lauren Morelli’s love story is one that is almost too magical to be real. Yet it is. The pair met in 2012, with a meet-cute that out-cutes them all. We take a look at their tale, from then until now.

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Wiley, an up and coming actress at the time, met her now-wife, Morelli, a screenwriter, in December 2012, on the set of Orange Is The New Black. Morelli wrote episode six of season one, which saw her visiting the set to meet the actors.

At the time, Morelli was married to a man. Wiley admitted to Out Magazine, that she thought Morelli was gay and would constantly try to find ways to chat to her. In the same interview, Morelli said that she had started questioning her sexuality after being in the writers’ room for this show.

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“On set it’s a bunch of women, so everyone’s hugging and touching. It’s a very affectionate place. I’d fallen into this alternate universe, but I thought I’d go home and it’d disappear. But Samira was still so present for me,” said Morelli.

“I found out she was married — I assumed to a woman. It was a little dagger in my heart. I remember this whirlwind of me falling in love in those four days. I was also bartending, and I told my coworkers. They said I was crazy. She went back to L.A., and I thought I’d forget about her, but that Christmas I found myself talking to my mother about it,” explained Wiley.

“I never talk to her about anything like this, but I was completely open about how lost I felt. That was the real indicator for me: me talking to my mother about Lauren. Because Lauren was finding out who she was, I became a confidant to her. We’d talk on the phone, me sharing my own coming-out story and her talking about things she was discovering.”

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After having Samira as her confidant, and going to couples therapy with her husband which turned out to be futile, Lauren separated from her husband and started dating Samira.

A year into their relationship, the pair took a trip to Thailand, and they both admit that it was a terrible failure. They bickered the entire time. However, they also say that the trip helped them learn about each other, and realise that no matter what, they still wanted to be together.

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Soon after, the pair took another trip, this time to Palm Springs. While packing for the trip, Lauren proposed.

“That day, I wanted to be good and get my packing done. She got home and was just not ready to go, and I was confused. She asked me to sit next to her. Then she got me up, and we started dancing together, and she pulled a ring from behind the couch. Lauren has been married before, so I wanted her to tell me she was ready, her to be the one to propose,” Wiley explains of the proposal.

“I didn’t know she was as ready as she was. I was completely shocked. I was crying uncontrollably and kept backing away from her. I asked her after, “Who knows about this?” and she said, “Oh, everyone. Your parents know.” We didn’t tell anyone else for a few days. That was really important to us — to have some time where it was just ours.”

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The pair tied the know on March 25, 2017 in Palm Springs. According to Martha Stewart Weddings, the event began with an outdoor ceremony, officiated by Samira’s parents, and led to a grand entrance by the couple, at the reception with Justin Bieber’s “Baby” playing as they made their way in.

Both Samira and Lauren donned custom Christian Siriano ensembles, and guests were served dinner under colourful garlands and strands of lights.

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Image: Instagram / @lomorelli

Husband and wife duo Shona and Connie Ferguson are a force to be reckoned with. Together, the South African actors run their production company Ferguson Films, which produces hit TV shows like The Queen and The Throne.

The Ferguson’s have been married for over 18 years, and have accomplished a lot in their near two-decade relationship. We take a look back at their union.

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Shona, real name Aaron, met Connie at her Johannesburg home in 2001. At the time, she was already a household name thanks to her iconic role as Karabo Moroka in Generations. Shona was there to drop off mutual friends meeting Connie’s sister Lorato. As he sipped on a glass of water, Connie came out out of her room to greet him and their love story began.

“Hands down, it was love at first sight. She’d never admit, but. That’s how it was for me,” Shona told Destiny Magazine.

It was a whirlwind romance for the pair. After only two months of dating, they tied the knot in a traditional wedding. Their white wedding was held soon after, and appeared on the December 2001 cover of Drum.

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In 2011, the pair renewed their vows in a lavish ceremony in front of 70 guests at top Johannesburg wedding destination Avianto.

For the big day, Connie wore an ivory sheath gown designed by Biji, who also designed her first wedding dress back in 2001. The gown’s corset-style top featured Swarovski crystals, pearls, silver beads and lace.

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Throughout their marriage, the pair have built an empire that have brought much luxury to their lives. Aside from their production company, Connie also owns a beauty line called Koni Multinational Brands. She is also among the highest paid actors in the country.

The Ferguson’s are notorious for their public displays of affection. They often share their love and devotion for one another on their social media.

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They have one child together named Alicia Angel Ferguson. Connie also has a daughter named Lesedi, a fellow actress, from her previous marriage to actor Neo Matsunyane. She also has a grandson named Ronewa from her eldest daughter.

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In 2019, the couple celebrated their 18th wedding anniversary.

”We are different players in the game of life. But together we make a team that hit a home run with all the balls that life throws at us!” Laiti yaka, Modimo o re ratile! His Grace never ceases to amaze me! Happy 18th Wedding Anniversary my LOVE. We make the baddest team in all we do! I love you!” wrote Connie on Instagram.

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Feature image: Instagram / Connie Ferguson

While planning your wedding decor, you can take inspiration from almost anything. But with spring coming up, why not keep with the times and incorporate some season-inspired decorations into your special day?

Spring is the perfect season to get inspiration for a wedding celebration. With the blossoming of flowers, and animals coming out of hibernation, it is symbolic of new beginnings, beauty, and rejuvenation.

Flowers, sunlight, bright colours and much more can be incorporated into your special day, by looking to spring for some inspiration. If you’re planning a spring wedding, here are some decor ideas:

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Image: Instagram/ Wewordy