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    How to make your livestream wedding special

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    Many couples are no longer willing to wait for the nationwide lockdown to come to a close to have their wedding. Most are now opting for a livestream wedding, which allows their guests to attend their nuptials while safely social distancing.

    If you’re one of those who are in love and eager to get your married life started, then perhaps you’re leaning towards a Zoom ceremony. But since this is one of the most common wedding trends these days, you’ll likely want to do something to ensure that yours stands out from the rest.

    Here are some ways to make your livestream wedding special:

    Invite everyone

    Since you no longer have to be held back by the finances that comes with inviting people, you’re now able to invite absolutely everyone. The more the merrier! You’ll feel extra special once you see how many people turn out for your special day.

    Have everyone dress for the occassion

    This includes you. Everyone should be in their very best attire (no sweats allowed!).  After all, it’s one of the most important days of your life. If everyone gets dressed up, it’ll truly feel like a celebration.

    Don’t skip the toasts

    Your best man, maid of honour, and whoever else was going to give a toast should all still do so. Many people have slacked on the formalities on Zoom weddings, so to take it up a notch from the rest keep as much from the original plan as possible.

    Decorate

    Create a pretty backdrop for your wedding. Light some candles, play some music, add some fairy lights, do as much as you can!

    Consider all platforms 

    Some couples who have used Zoom found that the free version only allows for 40 minutes before it times out. If you don’t want a forced intermission, consider paying for the full version or using a different platform.

    Also read: The legality of Zoom weddings in SA 

    Image: Twitter / Tyler Thompson

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    Why micro-weddings will be big in 2021

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    Weddings, like a whole lot of other industries, have been heavily affected by the coronavirus pandemic. Experts say it’s likely to continue to change as trends adapt to current affairs. It’s safe to say that most couples who planned to get married in 2020 either cancelled or postponed their weddings. Some might have pushed through to get married online or at home.

    Couples who are looking to tie the knot next year, however, might also have to look into the best way to do that. Destination weddings, for example, might not be possible for a whole lot longer than we think, as well as honeymoons abroad.

    One wedding trend that’s been around for years but has recently become the go-to is the micro-wedding. That’s because some countries like the US and Sweden have not gone into lockdown, but are under social distancing regulations which mean they may move around freely but certain rules apply. Hence, those who got married had to scale down.

    Micro-weddings have many benefits, and we believe it’s only going to get more popular. Here’s why.

    It’s cost-effective

    It’s simple math: the more guests, the more expenses. Having a small gathering of 10 to 20 guests means cheaper catering. A smaller venue means less decor, and so it goes on. After the coronavius crippled the world economy, many couples might seek to save a few bucks and this is the perfect way.

    It’s more intimate

    Having to single out only your closest family members or friends will ensure that the event is more meaningful and intimate. You will have time to hang out with everyone individually, and create special memories with the people that really matter.

    Fewer practical arrangements

    This is a big one for many brides who plan their own weddings. Everyone knows how stressful all the arrangements can be, and more often than not, things go wrong. With fewer people comes less responsibility, and you’ll have more time to just relax and enjoy the time leading up to the wedding.

    It’s less pressure

    Modern society can easily turn into a situation where everything is a competition. Every couple tries to outshine the next and expectations from others can put a lot of pressure on the couple. Micro-weddings shift the focus back where it belongs: on the couple who want to celebrate their love.

    Image: Instagram

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    The legality of Zoom weddings in SA

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    Globally, the popularity of Zoom weddings is increasing by the day. With the coronavirus pandemic essentially ensuring that no physical ceremony can take place, couples have limited options and therefore opt for online nuptials. However, the question of legality never seems to be brought up.

    There are certain requirements for a legal and valid marriage in South Africa. Some of these include:

    1. You must ensure you are both legally allowed to marry, and must understand the legal consequences of marriage
    2. You have to present all the required documents (including ID documents of both partners, divorce orders from previous marriages or death certificates if applicable) to the officiant
    3. Your marriage officer must be authorised in terms of Act No. 25 of 1961
    4. Your marriage must be conducted in the presence of at least two witnesses
    5. The witnesses and the marriage officer must sign the marriage register after the solemnisation of the marriage, and you as the newly-weds should be given a handwritten marriage certificate

    If we consider the last two points, we might notice that these are more difficult to fulfil while self-isolating.

    When the nationwide lockdown began, Minister Aaron Motssoaledi of Home Affairs said that no marriage certificates would be issued during the lockdown. He said that those who want to get married should wait until the lockdown is over, and in fact even joked about it saying that “maybe the 21 days will also give you time to think whether you want to get married or not.”

    With marriage certificates not being issued, point number 5 is pretty much impossible to fufill with a Zoom wedding. Point number 4 may be equally difficult if you don’t live with at least two additional roommates (which most couples don’t).

    Point 4 talks about being in the presence of two witnesses. This does not specify that the witnesses have to be there physically, although it might make the most sense to assume that is what it means. If we stay on the safe side and assume the witnesses have be there physically, then you’re probably unable to fulfil point 4 too.

    In addition, it may be difficult to find an authorised officiant willing to perform your marriage, since marriage was so clearly warned against by the government when the lockdown started.

    As a result of these stumbling blocks, Zoom weddings may be a bit of a grey area in terms of legality. However, it’s safest (and most likely correct) to assume that Zoom weddings cannot be taken as legally valid in terms of the law.

    Either way though, a zoom wedding may still be worth it for symbolic reasons! It can be used to celebrate what your day would have been, or to simply bring everyone together as you planned to in the first place.

    Here are some zoom weddings for inspiration:

    Image: Twitter / @tarekjpeg

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    Quiz: What’s the perfect colour scheme for you?

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    Recently engaged? Congratulations! Now, the fun part begins. Planning a wedding is hard work, but getting to choose all the elements that make up your big day is an incredible experience. It can also be overwhelming. Don’t worry, we’re here to help.

    The colour scheme will determine the style, atmosphere, all the decor and even the bridal parties’ attire. You should choose a colour that reflects who you are and that makes you happy.

    Take this quiz to get to know yourself better and learn what colours will work for you:

    1. You’re at a party where you don’t know anyone. You:
    a) Introduce yourself to some strangers and end up making new friends
    b) Grab a seat and sip on a drink by yourself, until you see the friend who dragged you here
    c) Will never go to a party if you don’t know everyone who will be there!

    2. When planning an outfit, you:
    a) Go for the show-stoppers and like to experiment with looks
    b) Have a few favourite go-to items you always wear
    c) Always go with neutral tones, subtle and plain

    3. When you argue with your partner, you:
    a) Make sure they know exactly how you feel and why
    b) Usually stay level-headed and discuss things calmly
    c) Avoid conflict and end up apologising first

    4. Your ideal weekend activity is:
    a) Going out on the town to all the vibey spots
    b) Having a relaxed dinner with close friends
    c) Staying in, watching movies and eating treats

    5. You met your partner:
    a) By striking up a conversation at a party
    b) Through mutual friends
    c) A family member set you up with a blind date

    So, if you’ve chosen…

    Mostly a:

    You’re an obvious extrovert, and love expressing yourself. You might like strong, bright colours and choosing warm tones like yellow, orange or red will work well at your wedding.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B_DZWvcJJZ5/

    Mostly b:

    You are a confident, but relaxed person and don’t care too much for glamour. You might like cool, heavier colours like greens, blues and purples.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B0qq2E2oCta/

    Mostly c:

    If you are an introvert like the quiz suggests, you might be more reserved. A good colour scheme would be light colours, like peach, lilac, or pink to convey your calmness and tranquility.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/Bulkv8phEZZ/

    Combination of a and b:

    If you are a little bit of an extrovert with a logical, level-headed side, we think you’ll absolutely love dark, sophisticated colours. This gives you room for self expression, but without all the brightness.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B9e9nliHv5i/

    Combination of b and c:

    If you’re an introvert but who likes to get out there, don’t let anyone hold you back. You’re not shy, but not loud either. An earthy, neutral colour scheme is what you want.  Go for whites, browns and greens.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B-eCVVuH0KQ/

    Combination of a and c:

    If you’re one of those rare and wonderful creatures who seem quiet at first but actually get more expressive the more you’re comfortable, welcome. You might actually be a dark horse, and you might as well admit it. We recommend metallic colours like silver, gold or bronze for an edgy theme.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B4PpGs_B48l/

    Image: Unsplash

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    Custom wedding dresses: Now may be the perfect time

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    There’s a lot of debate about custom wedding dresses versus off-the-rack dresses. Many claim that a custom dress takes much more time and effort. Since we’re in a nationwide lockdown, perhaps now is the perfect time to consider a bespoke gown.

    With a custom gown, there are many advantages. Your imput is the most important thing, whereas with off-the-rack gows, you might have to settle for what’s available. The world is your oyster with a tailor-made gown, you can let your imagination run free to come up with exactly what your dream dress looks like. Not only that, you won’t have to spend hours in stores trying on dress after dress.

    Since you have two weeks (possibly more) left at home you can get to thinking. Start by searching Instagram and Pinterest to gather some inspiration. From there, you can note which styles are your favourites, what fabrics and colours you like, and other small touches to make your wedding dress truly unique.

    You could even spend some time chatting to dressmakers, offering them your ideas to see if they’re able to create something that you’d like. With the technology we have these days, you could have your entire first appointment online, as long as you can take your own measurements.

    Of course, with a custom dress you may have to spend a bit more money and have a few more fittings. However, these problems are easily turned into non-issues if you try hard enough.

    You may be saving money in other areas of your wedding expenses as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. For example, if your guest list is slightly trimmed to ensure that you have a smaller gathering (since we may still have some restrictions after the lockdown ends) then you’ll save money by getting a smaller venue, or by catering for less people. You’ll also save on printing and sending invitations. These savings could be used for your dress, if you’d like.

    A bespoke dress ensures a perfect fit, no style limitations and many more up sides, so it’s worth considering. After all, who knows you better than you!

    Image: Pexels

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    How to have an outstanding outdoor wedding

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    With the lockdown in full effect, it seems like everyone is dreaming of the day we may once again step outside and enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors.

    Why spend another second inside when you don’t have to? Once things have returned to normal in the world, we predict outdoor weddings will see a big boom as couples and guests revel in the freedom of their movement.

    While you’re stuck at home, there is no better time to plan your perfect day. Here are some tips to make your outdoor wedding a day to remember.

    Location, location, location:

    South Africans are blessed with beautiful scenery around every corner. It is especially important, now more than ever, to support local and choose a wedding venue in the country.

    Our top pick is Monate Game Lodge. Located in Modimolle in the Waterberg district of Limpopo, Monate is a 4-star luxury bushveld accommodation and wedding venue where you can truly live out your African dream. Whether your wedding is big or small, the team at this 3000 hectare private game reserve will strive to add that personal touch and tailor each event to every unique pair.

    Bridal couples can take their pick from the famous Rock Fig, a majestic Marula tree in a natural cave, the unique bush boma or the traditional Chapel to say ‘I do.’

    Experience your dream come true in the gem of the bushveld. Monate Game Lodge is a venue where love falls in love again! For more info contact 014 718 7000 or [email protected]

    Image: supplied

    Light ‘em up:

    Both functional and fashionable, good lighting is a major key for your big day. Since you’ll be outdoors, you’ll have natural light to brighten the day. However, as the sun sets you’ll need a few additions. Use varying candle sizes, hanging lamps and tons of fairy lights to create a romantic atmosphere that is perfectly suited for a wedding day.

    Remember to take advantage of your space so that your décor complements instead of detracts from what you already have. String fairy lights around tree stumps, line steps with outdoor candles or create a sky full of stars by hanging glass orbs filled with tea lights from the ceiling.

    Image: supplied

    Get comfy:

    If you’re planning a summer wedding, don’t forget to take the weather into account. There are tons of small ways to make the summer days a little more manageable. Let your guests stay calm, cool and collected with an ice-cream station or fabulous fan favours. If it gets a little chilly once the evening hits, have some blankets or shawls on hand to pass around.

    If your wedding venue space allows, consider setting up a shaded cool-down lounge area for your guests to sit back, relax and take in the views. Conveniently place the bar nearby and the spot will be a hit, especially as the sun goes down.

    Image: Pexels

    Let’s play a game:

    After being cooped up in the house for so long, your guests will be dying to have a little fun in the sun. Entertain them with some games designed to bring out their inner child. Think giant Jenga, ring toss, limbo or noughts and crosses.

    Another bonus? Many of the items you’ll need for these games are easy DIY projects. You can get creative, fill up your time while in quarantine AND save money because you won’t have to outsource another service. Winner, winner.

    Feature image: supplied

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    What to ask vendors when postponing your wedding

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    If you were planning on getting married in the next few months, you’ve most likely decided to postpone your wedding on account of the coronavirus pandemic. This can be an overwhelming task, and it’s easy to forget simple things like asking your vendors the correct questions.

    If you’re not sure where to start with the postponing process, then we suggest you start with your vendors. Make enquiries with them to find out everything you need to know. From there, it’ll be a much simpler task.

    Additionally, starting with your vendors could lead to some refunds if you’re lucky. Not all of them offer refunds, it often depends on individual circumstances. However, it is commonly said that the earlier you cancel, the better your chances of getting a refund.

    Here are some questions you should ask your vendors:

    – Wedding Planner 

    What are our options if we decide to postpone?

    Are you able to coordinate with our other vendors on our decision?

    If we reschedule, will you be available in the coming months?

    – Florist 

    What happens if we cancel or postpone our wedding?

    Is it possible to use the deposit for a new wedding date?

    Will there be an issue with sourcing the chosen flowers and if so will you be available to assist with choosing new ones?

    – Caterer 

    Are there any cancellation fees, and are they applicable for postponing too?

    Will postponing mean we have to redo the menu?

    If the number of guests decreases, will we pay the original amount or an adjusted amount?

    Will you handle food and serving of food differently as a result of coronavirus?

    – Photographer 

    Are there fees related to cancelling or rescheduling?

    Are we able to apply the deposit to the new date?

    Are you available in coming months if we do postpone?

    If you’re having a destination wedding, enquire whether vendors such as the photographer are still comfortable to travel.

    Image: Unsplash

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    Trending: Change the Date cards

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    So while it looks like the coronavirus will be meddling in our plans a while longer, you may find yourself having to postpone your wedding.

    If you could manage to move the date, make sure all your guests are notified by sending them pretty ‘Change the Date’ cards.

    Try doing it as soon as everything is confirmed so the guests have enough time to plan ahead too.

    We recommend sending e-cards, as the postal services are most likely not running! Here are some ideas to help you get creative:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B_AG3omDQfP/

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B_AGbQ8A-ak/

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B-_EChEjOIj/

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B-P2AV6nYuj/

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B-AJ3NVHYVF/

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B-iVHS-HFDP/

    Image: Pixabay

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    In Beauty

    Trending in beauty: The fox-eye

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    With all the time on your hands right now, it seems like the right time to perfect your makeup skills. The latest makeup trend sweeping the beauty blogs is the fox-eye look, and it might just inspire your bridal beauty look.

    The fox-eye look is a makeup technique that makes your eye appear more angled and elongated, like a fox. The trend originated on Tik Tok and is typically accompanied by straight, archless eyebrows to make your eyes appear even more angled.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B-uuCtGj5Cr/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    However, if you’re not willing to shave off the ends of your brows to achieve this look, fear not. When filling in your brows, you could simply add more product in the arch to make the brow appear straighter. You could also skip the brows all together and focus on your eyeshadow to achieve this effect.

    The eyeshadow effect requires you to ‘contour’ your eyeshape from above your crease upwards towards your browbone. This creates a shadow, making it appear as if your eye is naturally shaped this way. Complete the look with angled liner using a dark brown eyeshadow then softly diffuse the line. It’s not a cat-eye liner you want, this look is much softer and more ‘natural’. Then sharply define and elongate your inner eyeducts to make them appear more angled. Voila, the fox-eye!

    Here are a few tutorials to help you perfect the look:

    Feature image: Pexels

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    Ways to celebrate your original wedding date

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    Due to the coronavirus pandemic and the resulting quarantines and self-isolation regulations, many are postponing their weddings. However, moving your wedding doesn’t mean your orginal wedding date has to be any less special.

    You may have had your heart set on your original date, it may have been a sentimental choice, or perhaps it was the perfect date for you. Whatever the reason for the original choice, you should still celebrate! Just because the actual celebration won’t be on that day, doesn’t mean you can’t do something special to comemorate what the date means to you now.

    Here are some ways to celebrate in self-isolation:

    – Have a mini photoshoot 

    Set the self-timer and get posing! You could dress up in your wedding outfits if you have them, or formal attire if you don’t. You could even make it light hearted and take some funny photos of the two of you dressed up in costumes put together with household items. If you’re feeling extra creative, you could create some fun backdrops.

    You and your partner can cherish the photos for years to come. It’ll be a fun way to comemorate the day, and will bring back all sorts of memories every time you come back to them.

    – Host virtual drinks with your wedding party 

    The bridesmaids and groomsmen have been commited to your wedding for a while! Why not celebrate the day with them by you side? Hop on Zoom or Skype, and have a drink with them in comemoration of the day you all have spent so long preparing for.

    – Make a wedding cake 

    Spend some quality time in the kitchen creating a wedding cake. You may not have the one you ordered on hand, but that doesn’t mean you should go without! And of course, what is a celebration without a cake?

    – Write wedding day letters 

    In place of saying your wedding vows to each other, why not write letters to exchange on the original wedding date. This way, you’re celebrating in a special and intimate way, while saving your actual vows for your postponed date.

    – Have your first dance 

    You’ve practiced it for so many hours! Pop some music on the speakers and have your first dance.

    Image: Unsplash

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