Wedding arches have come a long way from the simple dome structures they used to be. Now popular in both indoor and outdoor weddings, the wedding arch can be a beautiful symbol of the home you and your partner will build together. This tradition is, of course, one more way for you to decorate and create a focal point. Here are some creative ideas that are perfect for your outdoor wedding.
Feature Image: Instagram/Foreverlyafter
We are on the brink of entering the new 20s so it’s only right we take a look back at the glamorous style that epitomised the Jazz Age. A time of decadent fashion, the roaring 20s was extravagant, over-the-top and exciting. Fashion featured art deco-inspired geometrical prints, stunning embroidery and beading galore.
It’s almost a century later and these styles are still just as relevant and timeless today. If you want to channel your inner Daisy Buchanan, take notes from these glamorous gowns.
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Picture: Pexels
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. While they may not be for everyone, abandoned buildings and structures have been trending in the wedding world recently. Couples have been opting for outdoor venues featuring crumbling walls, open ceilings and overgrown bushes for a memorable venue guests are sure to marvel at.
While it may seem macabre and weird at first, these venues offer their own kind of romance. There is something special about a place left behind. Venues like these have a history, a story to tell.
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Take, for example, this ancient convent in the Amalfi Coast. The stunning architecture still stands, giving a glimpse into a time once lived. You barely need any decor: the venue itself is the masterpiece.
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The spaces don’t have to be abandoned, they just need to give off an old world spirit. It’s even better if they’ve existed for decades and once had a different use. This stunning venue was originally an icehouse.
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This building is reminiscent of a rundown castle that once existed. You can almost hear the clipping of horse hooves, the rustling of trailing medieval gowns.
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These wedding venues are timeless, unique spots to say ‘I do’. If you want your wedding day to stand out, this just might be the type of venue for you.
Image: Instagra / Emily Battles
A bride is usually very easy to spot. She wears a wedding gown that stands out from the crowd, and there is absolutely no chance she’ll be mistaken for a bridesmaid. The groom on the other hand, may get lost in a sea of suits.
This seems a bit unfair. It would be a shame for a groom to not be seen on his big day. There are ways (some more subtle than others) for a groom to stand out from his groomsmen. Have a look at these ideas:
– Different neckwear
If you’re wearing a tie, have your groomsmen wear bowties or vice versa. You could even switch it up completely by having your groomsmen sport classic neckwear while you wear an alternative neckpeice. There are way more alternatives than you think.
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– Vary in suit colours
The colour of your suit makes a tremendous difference. This is one of the easiest ways to stand out from your groomsmen. You’ll be the main focus, without a doubt. This works especially well when your groomsmen wear more dull toned suits while you wear something brighter.
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– Accessorize
Add something extra to your outfit. You could add a hat, a pocket watch, a brooch, or really anything you want. All you need to do is find the best way to incorporate it.
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– Play with patterns
If you really want to make a statement, you should consider adding some patterns. Keep your suit the same colour as your groomsmen, but add some pizzaz by adding a pattern. Alternatively, you could do this on a smaller scale by simply wearing a shirt with pattern or print while your groomsmen wear plain shirts.
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– Smart-casual groomsmen
By simply having your groomsmen ditch their blazers, you’ll be the centre of attention instantly.
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– Switch up your tie colour
If you’re the type of groom who wants to be set apart, but does’t want too much attention, simply switch the colour of your tie. This one is very subtle, but very effective.
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– Get creative with your boutonniere
Similar to the tie switch above, you could keep it simple and just vary in the colour of your boutonniere. You could also personalise it and get creative, there are endless possibilities. Have your groomsmen wear the classic flower, and hand craft your own boutonniere.
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Image: Pixabay
Crowns have made a resurgence in the wedding industry. As royal brides walk down the aisle with their crowning glory, we cannot help but covet this regal accessory. Crowns, however, can seem a bit…dated. Instead of the traditional glitzy headpiece, todays brides are opting for accessories lined with crystals, celestial shapes and unique stones. Here’s how to modernise this traditional accessory.
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Also read: Stunning bridal hair pieces
Image: Unsplash
Weddings are expensive, and saving money where you can is crucial. But have you ever considered saving the earth to save money? This couple did, and they were rewarded in more than just monetary value.
Ellie Toohill and Darren Auth Duke from Western Sydney decided to save money in an inventive way by recycling bottles to pay for their wedding. They travelled across Sydney collecting rubbish to deposit into a bottle vending machine. For every bottle they collect, they earn 10cents. While it doesn’t sound like much, it can add up very quickly.
They turned their backyard into a storage space where they separated their rubbish into special compartments for recycling. They also got their neighbors involved too, having them donate bottles to add.
Ellie and Darren even used social media to spread their cause. They created a Facebook page, called A recycling wedding Sydney, and used it to document their process.
They used an app to track their progress, through which they earned $7581, and another $3000 in printed receipts. With the money they were able to fund their wedding reception (planned for April 2020) and purchase their rings. They plan to do it all again to fund their honeymoon. Talk about something old, something new…
Image: Unsplash
Modern couples are bold and not afraid to take risks, even with their weddings. The result? Unique elements that personalise their big day into memorable experiences, from the choice of shoe all the way to their wedding cakes.
Wedding cakes have been mainstays for decades, but their styles have changed so much. The simple, two-layer buttercream sweet treat doesn’t cut it any more. Modern times have seen multiple new wedding cake trends exist concurrently, each one appealing to specific tastes. From geometric designs to abstract art, wedding cakes are taking on a life of their own.
Geometric designs:
Characterised by geometric designs and bold symmetry, art deco has been given new life in this decade. Rather than the over-the-top, shiny look of yesteryear, this trend is much more simple to allow the geometry to stand out. Stick to no more than three key colours to maintain the sleek look.
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Square cakes:
Round cakes are so last decade. Square cakes have been trending for the last year, offering up an alternative shape and design that is wonderfully modern. Add florals to soften the look.
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Modern florals:
Florals and weddings go hand-in-hand. However, cake artists have taken this design to new heights, creating stunningly delicate sugarflowers placed artfully. The result is a stunningly modern yet soft cake.
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Texture:
Adding dimension is a simple way to elevate a cake. Take inspiration from these cakes that feature delicate ruffles and draping to add interest and sleek flair. This style is perfect for the understated couple who still want a showstoppingly unique cake.
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Abstract designs:
Abstract design is a hallmark trend of modernity. With simple yet impactful brushstrokes, a blank canvas can be transformed into a masterpiece. Keep the design to a specific spot or have it appear small with lots of white space to maintain a sleek, modern look.
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Image: Unsplash
Want to take your wedding to a higher level? Gather your best buds for an evening that incorporates CBD into your wedding decor and food. You’re ganja have a good time with these lit ideas.
CBD has been smoking hot in South Africa since marijuana was legalised for private use in 2018. From food to skincare, pretty much any product you need can list CBD as an ingredient. Since cannabis has become so mainstream, why not incorporate it in your wedding?
Kind Mind, a small American cannabis business, will soon be offering cannabis wedding planning and catering. In a Facebook post, the business shared some images on how they would incorporate the herb into your big day, and their ideas are far from half-baked.
From a Bud-bar to punny wedding favours, Kind Mind leaves us with high expectations.
South Africans wanting a cannabis-infused menu, we won’t leave you high and dry. Local green thumb and award-winning chef Matthew Smith’s budding new venture, Blazed and Infused, blends cannabis and cooking. Blazed and Infused offers private event catering with a unique THC twist. They even have a cannabis expert is on board to do infusion demonstrations to entertain your guests.
Contact: [email protected]
Website: https://blazedandinfused.co.za/
Image: Facebook / Kind Mind
‘Tis the season to be jolly. December brings happiness and the festive spirit as people all around the world get ready for one of the most popular holidays: Christmas. This month also doubles up as wedding season.
Many South Africans opt for December weddings as its the time most people are off from work and can travel. So why not hit two birds with one stone and have a Christmas-themed wedding?
Come on, get happy with these Christmas-inspired wedding decorations.
Invites:
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Ceremony decor:
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Seating guide:
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Plating:
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Decor piece:
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Ceiling decor:
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Cake:
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Bouquet:
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Boutonnière:
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Image: Unsplash
As a bride, your wedding dress is your choice. Many of today’s brides follow the ‘bigger is better’ motto. Gowns are glamorously adorned with beads, feathers, tulle and lace to create a dramatic and dynamic finish. But many others are more attracted to the simple side of life.
If you’re not one for flounces and fancies, a minimalist dress might just be the one for you. Clean lines and simplistic designs allow focus to be on the bride rather than the outfit.
Take inspiration from these understated yet bold gowns.
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Image: Unsplash