If your wedding falls during Ramadan and you have Muslim guests, you might wonder how to make the experience a respectful one for them during this time. With a little thought, you can ensure everyone feels included while you enjoy your day. These simple tips help you plan a wedding during Ramadan that works for all your guests.
Time it right Avoid food-focused moments like canapés, cocktail hour or dinner before sunset if you can. Ramadan shifts each year, so sunset (iftar) times change daily and by city. Check a local timetable online. Even noting sunset on your programme helps guests plan.
Offer simple iftar A small iftar table at sunset is thoughtful. Dates, water, juice or light snacks — enough to break the fast comfortably.
Talk to your caterer Let your caterer know in advance about fasting guests and halal meal requests. Keep meals warm or plated later if needed. Small adjustments go a long way.
Cocktail hour before sunset?
If you have a cocktail hour before sunset, provide comfortable seating and social spaces so fasting guests can enjoy themselves without focusing only on food.
Provide quiet spaces Some guests may want to pray after sunset. A small, private room is helpful. Not mandatory, just considerate.
Share information in advance Mention that your wedding falls during Ramadan on your website or invitations. Let guests know you’ve considered fasting and halal options. It helps them plan and shows respect.
Don’t assume everyone is fasting Children and those with health reasons may not fast. Flexibility is key, so focus on consideration, not assumptions.
Small gestures count A quick check-in with Muslim guests before the day — asking if there’s anything that would make it easier — is often appreciated more than any big arrangement.
You’ve had the big engagement and decided on a date – now it’s time to get down to the planning but your partner doesn’t seem keen on contributing. Wedding planning can be stressful enough without having a partner who is not interested in helping out, so we’ve put together these five tips to get your partner involved in planning your big day together.
1. FROM THE GET-GO
Make sure you are both discussing wedding options from the start. You don’t want to get ahead without your partner and leave them behind, only to want their input later on.
2. BE OPEN MINDED
Your partner may have some strange ideas, but try not to brush them off harshly, as you want them to continue making contributions. If you don’t like something, be gentle and explain why.
3. GET HANDS-ON
If there are certain areas that you know your partner will be interested in, such as the music, food or transport, then hand over those tasks, making sure you are both on the same page when it comes to what you want.
4. ASK FOR HELP
If you’re struggling to juggle all of the invitations, nagging family members and bookings, ask your partner if they can take on some of the tasks, or that you work on them together to ease the pressure.
5. JUST BE HONEST
Tell your partner that you want their input, after all, you both decided to have a wedding. Having open communication will help you to express how you feel as well as finding out what your partner wants.
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.
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.
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.
Credit: Pinterest
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
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
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
Photo: Micah & Sammie Chaffin/Unsplash
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.
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
Photo: Birdie Grey/Pinterest
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
Photo: Kaleidoscope Events/Pinterest
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.
Who wouldn’t want to walk down the aisle with their furriest four-legged friend by their side? Clad in the cutest black and white tuxedo, and sporting the wettest of all the noses, having your fur baby is surely a dream, not always practical.
However, don’t fear fur parents, we’ve thought of some creative ways you can include your bestie in your big day without (hopefully) causing a cat-astrophe.
Get ready with them …
Grab your wedding gown and snap a few adorable pics with them before the ceremony.
While your pup is privilege to have you shower them with love and treats, not all animals are that lucky. Skip the traditional wedding favour and pay it forward by adding a little donation option or box for your guests to add a little sunshine to an animal’s life.
Weddings are evolving and so are their color stories. Where soft neutrals once reigned supreme, 2025 is ushering in a bold new era of moody, jewel-toned palettes: think emerald greens, deep burgundy, sapphire blues, and rich plum. These sumptuous hues bring drama, depth, and emotion to a celebration, creating unforgettable atmospheres.
Below, we explore how this shift is playing out in South Africa, how to blend statement color with timeless style, and offer ready-to-use palette “recipes” you can adapt to your wedding.
Seasonal Color Trends in South Africa: Summer vs. Winter
South Africa’s climates and landscapes lend themselves beautifully to changing color moods each season. Local vendors and blogs are already spotting these shifts.
Summer / Warm Seasons
Brighter and lighter jewel tones, emerald, teal, fuchsia—pair beautifully with lush greenery and abundant natural light.
Accent with metallics (rose gold, warm copper) and softer neutrals to keep the look refined.
According to a South African bridal trend blog, summer 2025 palettes are seeing vibrant choices like coral, terracotta, moss green, and dusty lavender.
Yet even summer palettes are leaning away from pastel toward more saturated hues.
Velvet textures, dark wood, and richer metallics (antique gold, bronze) help enhance warmth and coziness.
Jewel-tone table settings, emerald, amethyst, ruby are gaining popularity for winter ceremonies.
South African décor sources also highlight “bold color” as a strong ongoing trend, with deep purples and jewel accents making statement touches.
Tip: If your wedding straddles seasons (e.g. early autumn or late spring), bridge neutrals (cream, taupe, soft grey) help soften transitions between bold and subtle hues.
Blending Dramatic Tones with Classic Aesthetics
Using deep, bold hues doesn’t mean giving up elegance or timelessness. Here are strategies to strike balance:
Anchor with Neutrals Use ivory, soft beige, or light grey as your base (linens, draping, walls) and let jewel tones appear in pops — napkins, florals, chair ties.
Limit Bold Accents Choose one or two primary dramatic colors and pair them with supportive secondary shades. Avoid overcrowding with all saturations.
Texture & Depth Mix velvet, silk, matte and glossy finishes. A velvet tablecloth in deep emerald with satin napkins and a metallic charger creates luscious contrast.
Metallics Gold, brass, bronze or even pewter can lend elegance and lighten darker palettes. Use sparingly — frames, flatware, candleholders.
Florals & Foliage as Transition Tools Use greenery, soft neutral blooms, and subtle tonal gradations to bridge between bold and classic.
Lighting & Ambience Warm lighting softens saturated hues. Uplights, candles, and warm white string lights can make jewel tones feel inviting, not heavy.
Here are some palette ideas (“recipes”) to help you mix and match florals, linens, and attire cohesively. Each recipe includes a dominant hue + accent + neutral.
Palette Name
Dominant Hue
Accent / Secondary
Neutral / Softening Tone
Notes
Emerald & Blush
Emerald green
Blush pink, dusty rose
Champagne or ivory
Softens green’s intensity; blush warms up cool green
Burgundy & Plum
Deep burgundy
Mauve, dusty wine
Soft taupe or stone
Elegant and regal for evening weddings
Sapphire & Teal
Sapphire blue
Teal, aqua
Light grey or silver
Great for coastal or modern venues
Amethyst & Sage
Rich purple
Sage green
Cream or pale lavender
Earthy but dramatic
Ruby & Gold
Ruby red
Berry tones, deep rose
Warm ivory
Use gold accents to elevate richness
How to apply these recipes:
Florals: Let your dominant hue guide your main blooms, then use accent tones in secondary flowers. For example: emerald foliage, blush roses, cream spray roses.
Linens / Napkins: Use neutrals for tablecloths; napkins or runners can carry the accent colors.
Bridal Party / Dresses: Bridesmaids might wear the accent color (blush), while groomsmen wear pocket squares or ties in the dominant hue (emerald).
Stationery & Signage: Carry the palette across welcome signs, menus, seating charts.
To keep jewel tones from feeling too heavy, incorporate touches of lighter hues like blush or cream. Jewel tone weddings, emeralds, sapphires, amethysts—are gaining traction for their luxurious and dramatic feel.
Thoughts & Tips
Start with a mood board early: gather fabrics, flower photos, paint chips.
Order samples of linens and swatches in your intended hues to test in your venue’s lighting.
Work closely with your florist, designer, and lighting team to ensure the colors harmonize under different light.
Don’t shy away from bold tones, but be intentional. A carefully chosen dramatic palette can make your wedding unforgettable.
Planning a wedding is more than just saying “I do”; it’s about creating an experience that resonates with your guests long after the celebration ends. In 2025, South African weddings are embracing unique touches that leave lasting impressions. Here are 15 standout details that guests can’t stop talking about:
1. Show-Stopping Wedding Cakes
Gone are the days of simple tiered cakes. Couples are opting for multi-tiered masterpieces adorned with edible flowers, intricate piping, and even metallic accents. These cakes serve as both a sweet treat and a visual centerpiece.
2. Personalized Couture Bridal Gowns
Brides are moving away from off-the-rack dresses and embracing custom couture gowns that reflect their personal style. Think bespoke silhouettes, unique fabrics, and intricate beadwork that tell a story.
3. Interactive Guest Experiences
From live painting stations to DIY perfume bars, interactive experiences engage guests and create memorable moments. These activities not only entertain but also serve as unique wedding favors.
4. Cultural Fusion Elements
South African weddings are beautifully blending traditional elements with modern twists. Incorporating local customs, music, and attire adds a rich cultural layer to the celebration.
5. Gourmet Food Stations
Food is no longer just a meal; it’s an experience. Couples are setting up gourmet food stations offering everything from sushi bars to traditional South African braais, allowing guests to indulge in a variety of flavors.
6. Signature Cocktails
Crafting a signature cocktail that reflects the couple’s personalities or love story adds a personal touch to the bar menu. These unique drinks often become a talking point among guests.
7. Live Entertainment
Hiring live bands or local musicians to perform during the reception creates an energetic atmosphere. Whether it’s a jazz band or a traditional drumming circle, live entertainment keeps the energy high. Hidden Gems Venues
8. Themed Photo Booths
Photo booths with themed props and backdrops encourage guests to capture fun moments. These photos often become cherished keepsakes and are shared across social media platforms.
9. Floral Installations
Floral arrangements are evolving into grand installations. Couples are adorning venues with hanging florals, floral walls, and suspended centerpieces that create a magical ambiance.
10. Sustainable Practices
Eco-conscious couples are opting for sustainable wedding practices, such as using biodegradable confetti, sourcing local flowers, and minimizing waste, aligning their celebrations with their values.
11. Late-Night Snack Bars
After hours of dancing, guests appreciate a late-night snack bar offering comfort foods like mini burgers, fries, and milkshakes, providing a delightful end to the evening.
12. Personalized Wedding Favors
Handcrafted wedding favors, such as locally made jams or personalized candles, serve as thoughtful tokens of appreciation and remind guests of the special day.
13. Dramatic Lighting Effects
Strategic lighting, including fairy lights, chandeliers, and uplighting, transforms the venue, creating a romantic and enchanting atmosphere that captivates guests.
14. Unique Transportation
Arriving in style is a trend that’s gaining popularity. Couples are choosing unique transportation options, like vintage cars or horse-drawn carriages, adding a touch of glamour to their entrance.
15. Thank You Speeches
Couples are taking a moment during the reception to personally thank their guests, acknowledging their presence and support, which adds a heartfelt touch to the celebration.
Incorporating these elements into your wedding can create an unforgettable experience for your guests. Remember, it’s the personal touches and thoughtful details that make a celebration truly memorable.
Featured Image: Canva
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