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In Advice

Pros and cons of a courthouse wedding

October 31, 2019 No Comments

Nowadays, weddings are elaborate events. However, bigger isn’t always better. Home Affairs -or courthouse weddings- are a great alternative for couples that don’t want a big fuss or simply don’t have the funds.

If you are considering having a courthouse wedding, you need to be aware of the positives and the negatives that it entails.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B3z23nxJnzw/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Pros

More intimate:

Sometimes it can be overwhelming to have a large amount of guests. With a courthouse wedding, you go back to basics with the people that matter. Generally at courthouse weddings, it’s just you, your partner, the officiant and two witnesses. Up to six guests are usually allowed to participate in the proceedings. Invite your best friends or family members to share in your special moment.

Cheaper:

Weddings are expensive. Many South African couples spend upwards of R70 000 – R80 000 on their big day. If you don’t have the funds, a courthouse wedding is essentially free of charge (you still have to pay for the marriage licence), leaving you to spend your money in other ways.

Little planning necessary:

With a courthouse wedding, all you really need to do is make an appointment and show up. There is no dress rehearsal, no event planner, no real planning necessary. If you’re a more chilled person that doesn’t want to be bogged down by details, this might be a great option for you.

Less stressful:

Wedding planning can be overwhelming. With vendors, schedules and seating arrangements, it can quickly become a stressful time moving around multiple elements that need to fit together. Cut out the stress by having a simple courthouse wedding.

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Cons

Loved ones don’t get to witness your wedding:

Weddings are a great time for family and friends to gather together and celebrate their loved ones. What other opportunity do you get to have everyone you love under one roof on such a special occasion? With a courthouse wedding, however, there is little space for guests, as many only allow a maximum of six. Many of the people you love will thus not be present on your big day.

Location is not always pretty:

Most Home Affairs offices are not exactly aesthetically pleasing. With dull brown furniture and bare white walls, you venue can leave you begging for some vibrancy. If you want beautiful pictures and a decorated venue, a Home Affairs wedding might not meet your standards.

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At the end of the day, your wedding day is about you. If a smaller wedding feels right, then do it. Alternatively, if you’ve always dreamed of having a big wedding then live your fantasy. There is no one-size-fits-all for weddings.

Image: Unsplash

In Decor

Couple has Tim Burton-inspired wedding photoshoot

October 31, 2019 No Comments

Edward Scissorhands. Beetlejuice. The Nightmare Before Christmas. Corpse Bride. All of these films are classic Halloween-time viewing that come from the mind of the unique writer and director, Tim Burton.

Many laud Burton for being the king of spooky with his dark yet comical films that have gone down in history. His characters continue to inspire many a halloween costume, and now it has even inspired a wedding photoshoot.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B3dgwpWBB89/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Miami-based couple Genesis and Kelvin have been together for 10 years and married in July 2019. However, due to personal circumstances they did not have the financial means to throw the extravagant wedding they wanted. They have four children, one of whom suffers from a severe form of epilepsy called Dravet Syndrome, and her resulting medical bills have been costly.

“We didn’t really have a big wedding because our daughter has a disability,” Genesis told Business Insider US. “Our wedding day, unfortunately, was a big flop.”

The couple, who are big Tim Burton fans, were granted the opportunity to have the wedding of their dreams when their friend approached them to do a posed photoshoot.

The photoshoot, captured by photographer Angela Vallejo, recreated their wedding day in epic style. Together with Monica Reyes, event planner from ‘Events with a Promise’, the couple were spoiled with the spooky and glamorous day they had originally envisioned.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B4LqenXpt4F/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

With the white piping on his lapel and the black and white colour scheme, Kelvin’s suit perfectly hinted at Jack Skellington’s attire from The Nightmare Before Christmas.

Genesis went for a gothic look, sporting a black lace gown with a lengthy train.

Elements from Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas and Beetlejuice were incorporated through decor and colour scheme. Green, purple and black are focal colours in many of Burton’s films, and were stylishly woven into this styled table without looking overly themed. Pumpkins, Jack Skellington’s favourite accessory, were also included in the decor.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B4LLz0DAO4c/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

The wedding invites featured curlycue script on a charred paper, giving a Halloween inspired look. The envelope, which reads “Mr. Unlucky”, referred to “Jack’s Lament” in The Nightmare Before Christmas.

There was even a replica of Beetlejuice‘s “Handbook for the Recently Deceased”, except this time it was used as a guest book.

The stunning three layer black cake was adorned with dried flowers and a cake topper with the figures of Jack Skellington and Sally cut into it. It also reads “Mr” and “Mrs”. The cake stand is in the shape of skeleton legs.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B34TQ8mguap/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

The photoshoot gave Genesis and Kelvin some much-needed time to spoil themselves. Most of their time is dedicated to looking after their children, especially their special needs daughter.

“Your whole life becomes taking care of this child,” she said of her youngest daughter. “You don’t notice how much time is fleeting, and although your life becomes taking care of this child, you need to practice self-love too.”

“We don’t really have time to go on dates or things like that, so for us, this shoot was just a time for us to take a step back and really, you know, practice self-care,” Genesis said.

Picture: Instagram / angie.lilian_

In Decor

Rustic Wedding Decor Trends

October 30, 2019 No Comments

Rustic weddings are a popular wedding theme choice and they are perfect for the couple who wants their wedding to have a relaxed feel. This theme makes use of a lot of raw and natural elements and it is therefore a great way to incorporate nature into your wedding.

Trendy elements to include in your rustic wedding include:

Dried floral backdrop

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Wood-backed seating chart

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Simple table decor

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Welcome sign

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A post shared by ⋆ Rustic Wedding Chic ⋆ (@rusticweddingchic) on Oct 16, 2019 at 12:14pm PDT

Door decor

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Wrapped cutlery

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Natural placement cards

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Dessert setup

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Feature image: Visual Poetry Photography

In Advice

Tips for the days leading up to your wedding

October 30, 2019 No Comments

You want to look and feel your absolute best on your big day. Here are some good habits to help you get there!

Go to bed earlier

The busy-tired-exhausted cycle is one we’re all familiar with. While too many people wear their busyness and lack of sleep like a badge of honour, sleep deprivation has far-reaching harmful effects on our overall health, wellbeing and performance. One of the best things you can do for yourself is to try and get more sleep. Experts reckon adults need between seven and nine hours a night. That may sound like a lot so start small, like going to bed 15 or 30 minutes earlier than you normally do.

Get a little help

If you’re one of those burning the candle at both ends, your body and mind will thank and reward you for giving it a bit of help in the form of a supplement, such as folic acid, Vitamin B or Essentiale Extreme.

Stretch while watching TV

Surely nobody needs to be told that exercising is good for you. We know this, and what you choose to do with that information is up to you. An easy one is simply to do stretches while enjoying the latest binge-able Netflix series.

Cut down on sugar

Cutting sugar out completely is difficult, but the good news is that you only need to cut down your sugar intake. Start with something manageable, such as reducing the amount of sugar you take in your coffee, swapping soda for water (even if it’s only every second time) and opting for dark chocolate over regular milk chocolate.

Keep healthy snacks on hand

Quiz almost anybody and they’re likely to say that their biggest healthy eating challenge is when they get hungry and there’s nothing wholesome within reach. It’s easy to reach for a chocolate, a packet of chips or a sugary fizzy drink when the hunger pangs hit and cloud your judgement. Proactively curb the hangriness by keeping snacks like almonds, fruit, biltong or kale crisps in your bag or desk drawer.

Schedule time for yourself

Me-time would be great, but I don’t have time! Yes, we hear you but this is where you need to get serious about simply taking the time. Slot your me-time into your calendar as you would with any other appointment. Make it fun by calling it a play date, and use the time (even if it is just 30 minutes a week) to do something that gives you joy, be it reading, listening to music, going for a run, chatting to a friend or doing nothing at all. Regularly taking time for yourself will ultimately make you happier.

Breathe deeply

What could be easier than breathing? We’re doing all the time already, but breathing deeper – and thinking about the action as you do it – has a number of health benefits such as increasing your energy levels, improving posture, reducing inflammation and relaxing both mind and body. So just breathe. And then breathe deeper.

Picture: Unsplash

In Accessories

How to incorporate black into your wedding

October 29, 2019 No Comments

Black is not just a colour for mourning. For decades, white has been synonymous with weddings for its symbolism of purity. White is traditionally expected. However, while many are afraid of including this dark-hued colour in weddings, black can actually bring much class and sophistication to your big day. Take a walk on the dark side and think of bringing this dark tone into your wedding.

Here are a few way to incorporate black into your wedding that won’t look morbid.

Invites:

https://www.instagram.com/p/BtY7CIRB_VB/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

The order of events:

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Your dress:

https://www.instagram.com/p/B4BE3UaB4F0/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

All-black suit:

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bwnb-VLlKmq/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Your bouquet:

https://www.instagram.com/p/Be5psRSDAKV/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Wedding arch:

https://www.instagram.com/p/ByfsMh8Icvh/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Black tables:

https://www.instagram.com/p/B4BLZ5tApR3/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Seating:

https://www.instagram.com/p/Be6R4rajYub/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Candles:

https://www.instagram.com/p/ByOktlUglIF/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Escort cards:

https://www.instagram.com/p/BxkJWYlAPtJ/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Napkins:

https://www.instagram.com/p/B2O0ueNhGmN/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Plating:

https://www.instagram.com/p/B1966ucD3FR/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Your cake:

https://www.instagram.com/p/B36Z3gvFu53/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Image: Unsplash

In Advice

The pros and cons of having a garden wedding

October 24, 2019 No Comments

There’s nothing quite like being in a beautiful and lush environment. If you love nature and want to make use of its beauty then a garden wedding could be perfect for you. However, as with any wedding venue, there will be upsides and downsides and you will need to decide for yourself if the negatives outweigh the positives when it comes to planning a garden wedding.

The location

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A post shared by Los Willows Wedding Estate (@loswillows) on Oct 23, 2019 at 12:01pm PDT

Gardens generally have plenty of space and can therefore accommodate all your guests easily. The setting itself is already natural and beautiful and so you will not have to worry too much about decoration. You will most likely be able to have your ceremony as well as your reception in the garden which cuts out travel for yourself and your guests.

If you’re lucky and a family member or close friend has a stunning garden, they might allow you to have your wedding there and that will save you tons of money.

However, if you are planning on holding your reception in the garden, you might want to hire a marquee to protect yourself and your guests from the elements and bugs. You should also have a back up plan in case it is incredibly windy or happens to rain on the day.

If you’re looking at a public garden, it won’t be private and you may have trouble booking it during season as it will be in demand.

The vibe

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A garden wedding invokes a casual vibe and is also a much more family-friendly wedding venue. Kids can run around and play without getting bored and wanting to go home and you can set up lawn games for the adults’ entertainment.

On the downside, if you’re wanting a full set up then you will most likely have to rent everything including seating, sound equipment and a power source since there won’t be any electrical outlets in a public garden. If it’s in the garden of someone’s home, you can get away with running extension cables from the house to power everything you need.

The logistics

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The nice part about garden weddings is that you will be free to use vendors of your choice. You might be able to find good deals with unattached vendors rather than using sponsored vendors and then having to put up with their pricing.

As with any open space, however, there is the issue of sound getting lost, especially if there is a breeze. If you’re under a marquee, then this shouldn’t be a problem.

These are just a few things to consider when you are planning a garden wedding. There are wedding venues that have garden locations within them that will have all the necessary equipment that you would need, but you might end up paying heavily for this type of venue.

Feature image: Unsplash

In Fashion

Rocking bridesmaid dresses for 2020

October 24, 2019 No Comments

Bridesmaid dresses are a tricky one. There’s a delicate balance between wanting them to look gorgeous, and not wanting them to upstage you on your big day. Here’s some good news: You can get both. The latest trends for bridesmaids are absolutely stunning, but not at all overpowering and will complement your bridal party perfectly. Your bridesmaids will feel great and love you for it. Here are some non-traditional outfits that are stylish, classy and sweet.

The two-piece

Two pieces can be just as beautiful and formal as you want them to be. Long skirts with halter tops are very in, especially loose fitting pieces that have a soft, flowing effect. Opt for a darker colour at the bottom and a light colour at the top. The top can be either tucked in or not. Lace is popular, and will fit in nicely if you have lace in your own wedding dress.

The embroidered dress

Embroidery is one of those things that used to be old-fashioned, then everybody realised how beautiful it is and brought it back big time. It has a feminine touch and goes well with pastel colours. Florals are always a favourite, but it doesn’t have to bind you. We’re loving this blue mullet dress with netted under layers.

The tiered dress

Layers are good on everyone if you do them right. Tiered dresses are super fun and work well with short or midi dresses. It has a fashionable vibe and depending on the material you opt for, can be elegant or playful.

Remember, it’s your day and your bridesmaids should make your day more beautiful, not take the attention off your dress. But that doesn’t mean they can’t be stunning too!

Picture: Unsplash

In News

When a wedding planner gets married

October 23, 2019 No Comments

You might think that a wedding planner wouldn’t want to do the work of planning his/her own wedding, since that’s what they do for a living. But actually, that’s the perfect reason for them to do it. They know all the ins and outs, the tricks and tips and most importantly, they have contacts in the industry.

One such lucky lady, California-based Erica España, recently threw her own wedding when she got hitched to her long-time best friend and high school sweetheart Dustin Lakin. They said their vows in the lovely English Gardens of Greystone Mansion in Beverly Hills. And here’s the best part: There was no one at the ceremony.

Afterward the ceremony, they invited 30 family members for an intimate dinner at a hotel in Downton LA.

Erica told Brides that she called in some favours for her big day. The couple’s custom invitation suite featured calligraphy and bright, cheerful botanicals. It also included elements that hinted at reception elements to come. She asked bakers she often worked with to make cookies and macaroons that matched the invitation suite. The treats were packaged in mini velvet bags, the same material used to line the envelopes.

After the stately dinner, they threw a dance party for 90 guests. “I didn’t stop dancing until the wedding was over!” said Erica.

As a wedding planner AND a married woman, we are eager to get some wedding advice from her. Her mantra is easy enough: “Go with your gut and do what makes you feel comfortable. When guests see that you’re relaxed and having fun, they’ll follow suit.”

Picture: Brides/Mike Radford

In Decor

Unique wedding seating chart ideas

October 23, 2019 No Comments

When it comes to wedding decor, your seating chart is one of the most practical aspects. However, it does not have to be a boring one. Once you have settled on your final seating arrangements, you can start to have fun with the display.

Many couples have taken to using their seating charts as another focal point in their wedding. As one of the first things guests will see as they enter, you want them to get the theme immediately.

Whether your wedding theme is glamorous, rustic, minimalist or art deco, there is a fun and unique seating chart for you. Here are some fun and different wedding seating chart ideas.

Quirky:

Want to have some fun with your wedding? Get punny! This simple yet striking sign adds personality to an event that can be very formal at times. Incorporate flowers and fruit for a dynamic and fresh take on the traditional seating chart.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B2fU11og8hG/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Mismatched frames:

For a dynamic seating chart perfect for garden weddings, consider using mismatched frames. Mirrors, photo frames and chalkboards provide a beautiful farmhouse feel with a touch of glamour.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B37Rb0XITDN/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Leather:

If you’re into the rustic farmhouse style then you will love this seating chart! This creative chart makes use of brown leather cloth hung up on a rose gold frame as a seating chart. With simple script and no other decor, this chart maintains a minimalist yet striking look.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B097P6zDJr3/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Linen banner:

This one is for the minimalist bride. If you’re not into frills and fancies, consider making use of a linen banner for your seating chart. We love how simplistic yet powerful this chart looks.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bzsivc3IWSg/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Bottles:

If you love a particular beverage, why not include it in your wedding decor? Make use of glass bottles, with all stickers removed, as a seating chart. Each bottle represents a different table. For added decor, place baby’s breath flowers inside the bottle.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B16KybAiGii/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Wood stumps:

Lovers of the outdoors can show their passion with these wooden stump charts! Soften the look with an array of flowers and an antique mirror.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B3nLQMBIAb6/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Delicious Monster:

Greenery has been having a moment in decor for a long time, and it is not going anywhere. Use single leaves of Delicious Monster with gold lettering to guide your guests to their seats.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B3zkmUKAG7S/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Records:

Use old records for a pun-intended take on seating charts. Have the table numbers and guest names written in the middle of the record. We promise it will get your wedding started on the right note!

https://www.instagram.com/p/B30INF1Bual/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Perspex:

For a glamorous yet classic look, make use of perspex stands with floral bouquets inside. Because the flowers can be quite busy, make use of simple block lettering.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B30wCzCl9s8/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Monopoly:

This Monopoly-inspired seating chart adds a dose of whimsy to a wedding. Encourage your guests to “Collect canapes as you pass Go ,” sip on some “Free drinks” and “Go to the Dance Floor”.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B3716Mon67F/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Picture: Unsplash

In Advice

Decor inspiration for a minimalist wedding

October 23, 2019 No Comments

Recent wedding trends have focused on dramatic, colourful and opulent finishes. However, it is not for everyone. Many couples are drawn to simplistic finishes. You don’t always need tonnes of decor to make a statement.

The minimalist trend is all about less-is-more. Think neutral colours, natural fabrics, organic elements, accent metals and lots of glass pieces. Clean lines and key pieces create a sophisticated look perfect for weddings.

Minimalist wedding decor directs attention to where it should be: the newlyweds. Here is some decor inspiration that prove that there is beauty in simplicity.

Invitations:

Quality white paper and simple black script are a perfect pair. Add flair with some dried botanicals and a unique letter stamp.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B3zH5MKFPl6/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Welcome sign:

Welcome your guests in perfect minimalist style. Your welcome sign can feature lots of blank space and minimal words to achieve this simple yet striking finish.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B3V-2azAoBi/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Venue:

High ceilings, exposed wood and white walls work best for a minimalist wedding venue. We love how just some string lights and greenery take this venue from drab to fab.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B2D4OvCnB1A/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Backdrop:

For a beautiful yet simple photo backdrop, consider a wall of hanging lights. Your images will be stunningly and romantically lit, and its very affordable.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B3au7IYBYGt/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Seating arrangements:

Fabric banners are wonderfully minimalist. Use simple lettering, shapes and blank spaces to get the look.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bzsivc3IWSg/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Seating numbers:

If you’re having multiple tables, let your guests know the number with these minimalist table signs. A clear card with block lettering works very well for this theme.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B32pdoslTk6/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Sweetheart table:

Minimalism does not have to be boring! With just a few candles, flowers and a frame, this sweetheart table has achieved picturesque perfection. The flowers add a softness to the angular frame that dominates the table, giving a great balance to the overall effect.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B3eecPNnZxU/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Table arrangements:

Long tables work best for a minimalist wedding. Decorate them with white candles, and dried botanicals to achieve this simplistic yet stunning look.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B3A-eCajFOR/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Plating:

Simple, white plating is all you need for a minimalist wedding. Have some fun with the menu by using curlycue scripts.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B3tUul9DtCt/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Table decor:

Place single leaves of greenery in modern terrariums or vases for some minimalist decoration. These table decorations are soft yet modern, creating a wonderful juxtaposition.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B3xF8ongqRA/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Signage:

A natural linen banner makes for perfect signage. Print a short slogan on the banner for some simplistic decor.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B3Xnvm5Fhy5/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Cake:

Cakes have become very extravagant in recent years. Take it back to simplicity with this minimalist design. We love how they incorporated a simple vine into this layered cake.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BE910O-Q0aP/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Picture: Unsplash