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    Do you really need wedding insurance? Wedding insurance, simply put, is the insuring of your big day. It can be anything from the venue to any cancellations. You may be questioning the necessity of this but when you’re spending thousands and thousands on your nuptials it may be a good investment.

    As much as you shouldn’t be negative about things, it’s also vital to take precautions. Would you purchase a phone or a car and not obtain insurance? So if you’re spending more than what you’d pay for a phone – and in some cases – a car then why wouldn’t you insure your big day?

    Wedding insurance can be tailored to suit any couples needs. Various companies also have different packages available that cover a few too many things.

    Consider a few things before making your final decision:
    – How much are you spending on your wedding?

    If you’re opting for a micro wedding then maybe you don’t need insurance since you’re not spending too much.

    – How far in advance are you planning?

    Insurance may be a good option if you’re planning a year in advance since it’s hard to know if anything may happen. Whereas situations are less likely to change in a month or two.

    – How long have you saved for your big day?

    If you’ve been saving for a long time you might want to invest in insurance. You wouldn’t want to lose your hard-earned money. If money isn’t an issue for you, then maybe not.

    – Anything can happen (unfortunately)

    Sadly no one knows what the future hold. There may be a death in the family or (touch wood) your partner. It’s not nice to talk about but it should be noted. Death aside, there may be damage done to your venue, a result of a guest who had a bit too much to drink or perhaps an innocent mistake.

    Keep the above-mentioned in mind. Remember to talk to your wedding planner and vendors as some of them may be covered. Even if so it’ll never be full coverage for the full wedding.

    Picture: Pexels

    Weddings are beautiful, joy-filled days to celebrate love. However, they can also be expensive and overwhelming. But what if your special day could be fully planned and executed for you in just two hours and at just a fraction of the cost?

    Pop Up Weddings SA is a venture offering couples all the fun of a traditional ceremony in just 2 hours, minus the stress and high prices.  Their team of wedding planners do it all for you: planning, sourcing, and setting up. All you have to do is show up. Four couples a day share a pre-determined venue in 2-hour slots per ceremony. Each Pop Up has a specific theme devised and planned by the wedding team. For example, a past pop up followed an Urban Adventure theme.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B0OiA_9DXdw/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

     

    Up to 15 guests can be invited, making this a micro wedding. A professional photographer captures your perfect day throughout and couples receive 150-200 professionally edited photos. The loved-up pair also receive a personalised floral bouquet and boutonnière, mini wedding cake and a bottle of bubbly (or non-alcoholic substitute).

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    https://www.instagram.com/p/BvOrg7AgBjh/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    While the idea of a pop up wedding might not be for everyone, there are many this concept is well suited to.  It works well for those with a small budget and it’s great for couples wanting to be different. It’s also ideal for people feeling overwhelmed by the pressure of planning an entire wedding themselves. Pairs who don’t want a big do can also benefit from this as it’s basically the fancier version of a home affairs wedding.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BvRKJl3AKPf/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    For more information please visit www.popupweddingsa.co.za.

    Image: Unsplash

    You’re planning your big day and you’re deciding on venues. A beach, forest and traditional chapel have all crossed your mind, however, those options aren’t engrossing you. So why not think outside the box and set sail by having your wedding on a cruise ship? Here’s how to plan one:


    There are many things to consider when planning a wedding on a cruise ship:

    • Will you get married in port or destination – If you choose port, your guests can come for the ceremony and leave before you sail away with your newlywed partner. Be sure to consult your wedding planner about this.
    • Decide if you and your partner will be taking the cruise by yourselves or with family and friends.
    • Consider your options if your guests are coming along.
    • How much can your guests afford and how long can they stay away.
    • Look for cruises that offer wedding packages or options.


    1. Pick your destination

    Maybe you’ve had your heart set on a specific place and if not, have a look at the options that fall within your budget. Consider when you’d like to go as it’s not always perfect weather year round, unfortunately. Remember, things get pricier in high season as well.


    2. License to wed

    Consult your wedding planner about this. Your romantic nautical nuptials will require a marriage license before the ceremony.


    3. Take your pick

    Once you’ve decided on a destination that fits your budget, have a look at various packages. See what each place has to offer and what their bundle entails. Do they have group rates? Do they include free things with the wedding package? Don’t be afraid to ask.


    4. Communicate

    Be sure to inform your guests well in advance. They may need to plan their leave and save up some money. Keep them updated on all the details and expenses that might come up.


    5. Dress the part

    If you’re going to be staying on the ship, it’s important to factor in your comfortability. It may not be easy to wear a constricting wedding dress on board. If that’s what you want, however, then go for it! But a cruise ship wedding is also the chance to make things more casual.


    6. One-stop shop

    You’ll be getting your ceremony, reception and honeymoon all in one go! If your loved ones come along it’s a great getaway for them too. Smiles all around.

    Picture: Pexels

    Weddings can be quite costly, which is why micro weddings are becoming increasingly popular. Otherwise known as small weddings, these micro nuptials are not just smaller guest lists.

    It should consist of all the typical wedding elements: just on a smaller scale.

    Cutting the guest list down means that your wedding can be more intimate as it will only be your loved ones around. The ceremony duration is normally shorter. There is usually not a lot of bells and whistles involved. This cut back means that you can save quite a lot of money.

    Less people means that you can splurge on things that you wouldn’t be able to in bulk. For example, expensive champagne or snacks. Since you’re only catering for about 20 people you can afford to get those special things.

     

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    – G R A Z E –

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    The micro wedding will be less stressful as you’re planning your big day on a smaller scale. Since you’ll only have a few people it will also be less nerve racking and you’ll be able to connect with your guests more.

    Instead of having to mingle with over 50 people, your time can be divided among the few at your micro wedding.

    If you choose to have the smaller scale nuptials your venue options are also endless. You can try approaching your favourite restaurant or garden. Keep in mind even if a place doesn’t advertise hiring their venue for weddings they may be able to accommodate your micro wedding.

    Micro weddings are a great option and a good way to celebrate your wedding especially if you don’t have a lot of guests to invite.

    However it may not work if you want a wedding with everyone including your extended family and co-workers.

    Picture: Unsplash

    By Larissa Vermeulen

    A wedding theme is the golden thread running through your occasion, connecting every element, from the venue to the tiniest detail. Because the theme is such an important aspect of your wedding, it may seem like a daunting and overwhelming choice to make – that’s why we’re here to guide you:

    The Venue

    Where you choose to have your wedding will greatly contribute to the theme, so if you’ve already chosen a venue for your wedding, look at what it has to offer – a grand wedding hall calls for a glamorous approach while a beach venue requires a tropical or simplistic, natural theme.

    The Season

    If you’re planning an outdoor wedding, it might not be the best idea to celebrate your nuptials in the midst of winter, so it’s essential to take the season in which your wedding date falls into account. Furthermore, find inspiration in the colour palette of each season. For instance, if you’re planning an autumn or winter wedding, incorporate warm colors such as orange or red, or cooler colours for the warmer months.

    The Mood

    What kind of celebration do you have in mind? The formality of your event will directly impact the environment of your wedding. If you have always envisioned a formal black-tie event, then go for a glamorous, grand wedding theme. If you and your partner are both a bit more laidback, let that reflect in your chosen theme and go for a relaxed, informal garden party or beach wedding.

    The Personal Details

    It’s important to incorporate elements of you and your significant other into your wedding theme to make it unique to you as a couple. Have you travelled to any countries together that have inspired you? What is your sense of style? Even the most straightforward details such as what your favourite colour is could help you decide on a theme that is true to you both.

    The Culture

    Incorporating your cultural heritage into your wedding theme serves as a beautiful tribute as well as adds an element of tradition. It’s common practice for modern-day couples to combine multiple traditions, a dose of modernity and their personal style. These cultural elements could be incorporated in your colour palette, the menu or traditional activities.

    The Budget

    Most importantly, don’t forget about your budget! Be realistic and keep in mind that certain themes will be more costly than others. Don’t get wrapped up in looks or trends that you’ll regret later on. Having a classic, stylish theme is the way to go, but do incorporate small, fun details inspired by you and your partner to reflect your true personality as a couple.

    Image: Unsplash

    Wedding season is around the corner, and with that, lovely South African summer weddings. And although we love the warm evenings and longer days, a summer wedding does come with its fair share of drawbacks. We’ve gathered some solutions to help you keep your cool, and your guests comfortable.

     

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    Just in time for the heatwave… ? ⠀ ⠀ Themal water is excellent for refreshing, but it can dry your skin out. Try this natural DIY face mist instead! It’s perfect for the hot days, conditioned rooms, and planes: you can bring a small bottle in your carry-on. ⠀ ⠀ ? Moisturizing Rose Water DIY Face Mist ? ⠀ ⠀ You’re going to need:⠀ ? 1 part of distilled water⠀ ? 1 part of rose water⠀ ? 5-7 drops of your favorite essential oil(s), e.g., lavender, jasmine, rose geranium, tea trea, bergamot… ⠀ ⠀ ? Blend all of these together in a spray bottle or mister and spritz on your face whenever you feel like it. Oh, and don’t forget to reapply your SPF and drink another glass of cool water!⠀ ⠀ ? Keep in mind that you may have individual reaction to some essential oils. ⠀ ⠀ #thermalwater #heatwave #staycool #diyfacespray #diyfacemist #facespray #facemist #diy #naturalskincare #naturaldiy #naturalcosmetics #skincareroutine

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    DIY mists

    We love a good DIY project, and this one is particularly practical. It will not only help keep your guests cool (and smelling lovely), but could serve as a nifty little favour as well.  You’ll need:

    • Small bottles with fine-mister nozzles (you can buy them at most bulk plastic suppliers)
    • Distilled water
    • Glycerin (a few drops per bottle)
    • Essential Oils (a few drops per bottle)

    Combine all the ingredients in the bottles, and shake well. Try peppermint, lemongrass or lavender essential oils for a fresh, invigorating scent that repels bugs at the same time.

    Citronella candles

    No matter where you are, mosquitoes always somehow manage to join the party and bring an unwelcome annoyance. Place citronella candles or diffusers with citronella essential oil on tables inside and outside, close to food, or wherever your guests will spend the most of time, to keep the bugs away.

    Drink up!

    Yes, your guests will most likely be sipping champagne, cocktails and the like, but it’s important to also have plenty of water available too. Alcohol causes us to develop a slight flush, even if it’s not noticeable in some people, leading to higher body temperature and dehydration to some degree, and even more so in hot weather. Have jugs and bottles of ice-cold water ready at a dedicated hydration station so guests have no excuse not to stay hydrated.

    Individual parasols and fans

    If you’re having an outside ceremony, it’s essential to provide your guests with some sort of shelter against the blistering sun. If you don’t plan on having umbrellas, provide your guests with individual parasols that they can use during the ceremony. Fans are also ideal to offer your guests to give them the option of fanning themselves during the ceremony as well as the rest of the night during dance breaks.

     

    Image: Unsplash

    Couples are difficult to shop for and having a wedding registry solves a whole lot of problems for guests who don’t understand your style. Gift registries are easy and effortless, and ensure you don’t have 10 of the same gifts. Here are a few local shops and websites to consider when listing your registry. You can also read: Best wedding planning APP’s and tools.

    1. Yuppiechef

    Founded in 2006, YuppieChef was created by two friends. Known as a kitchen and homeware store, the company has assisted over 5000 happy couples. They offer an easy and convenient set up and stock products from over 700 brands. The company specialises in knives, cookware, appliances and soft furnishings.

    2. @home

    This well known homeware store offers a gift registry that can be set up online. @home offers an in-store consultation if you and your partner desire this. You can also manage your registry online. They offer several brands in various homeware sections such as the kitchen, bedroom, living room, bathroom and decor.

    3. Wrapistry

    Wrapistry  have a variety of gifts and brands on their website. The website boasts brands like Carrol Boyes, Jamie Oliver, Maxwell & Williams, Le Creuset and many more. Options include group gifting, free delivery, gift tracker and cash refunds.

    4. Mr Price Home

    This store has a wide variety of homeware items at affordable prices. Have your pick of living room, kitchen, bathroom, bedroom and home decor items. Mr Price Home has online videos available to help assist with setting up your registry.

    5. Gift Tree

    They provide many gift registries and items to choose from. Gift Tree also allows group gifting, so if you choose something a bit more expensive, a few people can contribute to it. They customise your registry to suit any budget. Offering gifts from various sections like bar ware, decor, tableware, bedroom, bathroom and dining.

    6. Bespoke

    Founded in 2012, Bespoke offers a carefully curated collection of homeware items. Take a pick from kitchen, decor, bedroom, outdoor and living room items.

    7. From9am.com

    From9am is your one-stop online cyber destination for all things health and beauty in South Africa.  Quality products made locally and imported are available for online purchase, this includes makeup, eye, Lip, face, hair, body and feet products catering for all types of consumers! Shop the From9am.com beauty destination for makeup brush sets, blush and powder brushes, beauty blenders, makeup bags, tweezers, foundation, eyeshadows, palettes, eye makeup, lashes, concealers, contours, highlighters, bronzers, primers, setting sprays, face, body and feet products + so much more.

    Picture: Unsplash

    Planning your wedding and finding inspiration can be tough. Luckily, wedding expos and fairs are there to guide soon-to-be wed couples. Not only can you get tips, ideas and special deals by trawling these, but they can also be a lot of fun. These events showcase decor, stationary, colour schemes, cakes and more to help you envision and plan out your perfect wedding. Some expos even offer the opportunity to meet with vendors that can assist you on your big day.

    Have a look at wedding fairs and expos you can visit in South Africa:

    1.Winelands Bridal Fair

    This event will be taking place on August 3 and 4 with stunning Stellenbosch as its backdrop. The bridal fair offers everything you may need for planning a wedding all under one roof. There are even experts there who can assist you.

    2. The Wedding Expo

    This annual expo takes place in Johannesburg and Durban and sees brides- and grooms-to-be from far and wide paying it a visit. You’ll find a variety of services to help you with your wedding planning.

    3. SA Bridal Fair

    You can catch this wedding expo in Cape Town, KwaZulu-Natal and Johannesburg. The event hosts local vendors who can lend a hand in all your wedding plans. Make sure you save the dates. It will be at Makaranga in KwaZulu-Natal on August 11, the Hilton Sandton in Johannesburg on October 13 and the next Cape Town expo will be happening next year, so keep an eye out.

    4. Bridal Expo

    Hosted at the Oakfield Farm in Johannesburg, this bridal affair will be taking place on January 25 – 26 and June 27 – 28 2020. Meet with wedding specialists who can help you plan your big day. The event includes competitions, bridal fashion shows, and a big bridal gown pop-up store with the biggest wedding dress sale in South Africa.

    Picture: Unsplash

    The Wedding Expo is making its way to Durban on August 3 and 4. The event will be held at Sibaya Sun Park in Durban North. The Expo has been providing advice and great ideas to engaged couples since 2002. Old Mutual has added their voice as a sponsor and will be providing financial advice to help couples achieve their lifetime goals.

    The event will showcase various ideas and inspirations for bridal couples. The best part is the amazing competitions and giveaways. A couple stand the chance of winning a wedding that includes a venue, honeymoon and photography. The wedding expo also provides opportunities to meet with various suppliers. Vendors include catering companies, dress designers, photographers and more. There will also be discounted rates so you and your partner can score a few great deals.

    The Wedding Expo will also have a cake tasting station where you can try various cake flavours. The highlight is always the fashion show displaying designer dresses and advice from the designers themselves.

    Pop in for a mini-makeover and take valuable notes for your big day. After all the wedding rush you may need a minute relax and grab a bite to eat, the expo offers plenty of food choices.

    Tickets are available on www.wedding-expo.co.za or on sale at door.

    Dates: August 3 and 4
    Venue: Sibaya Sun Park
    Tickets: R100 per adult and R 30 per child (2 -12 years)
    Time: 9am-5pm

    Picture: The Wedding Expo

    So you’ve just tied the knot! Before you head to the wedding reception, you and your partner need to capture some memories. Perhaps the venue itself offers a great scenic background and is the perfect spot for your pictures, or you and your loved one are going somewhere that requires some traveling. While you’re off snapping some pics, your guests are either waiting at the ceremony venue or traveling to the reception venue to wait there. However, they don’t have to feel like they’re waiting around – here are some ways you can keep the party going while you and your spouse are temporarily gone.

    1.Picture Time!

    While you’re taking your pictures, your guests can too! Set up a photo booth and let them have some fun. Make sure there’s music playing, so it’s not awkward. You could also hire a photo booth so your guests can get their pictures on the spot to take home. You and your partner can join in on the fun when you’re done taking your romantic couple pics

    2.Happy Hour.

    Provide cocktails for your guests. Allow them to mingle over drinks and snacks. Go a step further and organise a mini alcohol-tasting section, whether it’s gin, wine, whiskey, rum, or bubbly. You can even have your family and friends make their own cocktails, or hire a bartender for a few hours.

    3.Games and activities.

    Let your guests play around! Set up various games and activities to get everyone in a silly mood. Karaoke, a How Well Do You Know The Couple quiz, old-fashioned lawn games or even some board games could prove to be a whole lot of fun. You can customise the games based on the venue, the number of guests and what you think they’d prefer.

     

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    Anyone for Jenga?

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    4.Professional entertainment.

    Hire someone to keep your guests preoccupied and having a good time. A comedian, band, and caricaturists are all great options.

     

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    Check out this great caricaturist I saw a recent wedding! Really amazing work!⠀

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    5.Record the moments.

    Have someone film your guests giving you and your partner a lovely message.

    6.Advice section.

    Have a something set up on a table where your family and friends can leave you some words of wisdom, whether it’s a book or pieces of paper to write on place in a jar. You can even have them sign something! It’s something cute and truly special to look back on.

    It’s very important to inform your guests of the wedding schedule. There’s nothing worse than people being left lost and wondering, or worse still, bored to tears. Attach the schedule to the invitation, send an email, even have it posted somewhere at the ceremony and reception venues.

    Picture: Unsplash