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    In Advice

    Have a destination wedding in your own country

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    Romantic and exciting, destination weddings have been trending for many years. However, they also have tons of drawbacks. From all the possible legal complications and the fact that not all your guests can afford the pricey airplane ticket to a foreign destination, those opting to tie the knot in a different country will have to make sacrifices on their big day. Instead of limiting your dream wedding, why not go local?

    From Parys to Potchefstroom, there are so many small towns in the country that give you that private, destination feel without breaking the bank. Escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a serene day only a few hours away.

    One particular wedding venue we’ve been loving is the Nut Farm. Situated in Hartbeespoort, Skeerpoort, the Nut Farm offers spectacular mountain views worthy of your vows. Say your ‘I do’s’ at their open-air chapel with the serene farmland that paints an unforgettable backdrop for your wedding, or go traditional with their inside chapel situated on the second floor of the reception area. Guests will have a beautiful birds eye view of the bride as she makes her entrance, as well as stunning views of the famous Hartbeespoort Dam.

    With a spacious reception area, mobile bar and hidden outside fireplaces, this wedding venue serves as a blank canvas for you to live out your vision. Their orchard accommodates intimate or larger celebrations of 200 guests.

    Visit their website for more information.

    Feature image: supplied

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    In Advice

    Monate: A return to nature

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    Couples value experiences over material items. Gone are the days of over-the-top, grandiose weddings that are more about the pomp and flash than the couple. As we become more aware of our impact on the environment, couples are making responsible choices when tying the knot.

    A wedding is about love and commitment. What better way to celebrate your love and the environment than in nature itself? One South African establishment, Monate Game Lodge, offers it all. Located in Modimolle in the Waterberg district of Limpopo, Monate is a 4-star luxury bushveld accommodation, conference and wedding venue where you can truly live out your African dream.

    Monate allows couples to fall in love with each other and their surroundings, without the distraction of excess. Whether your wedding is big or small, the team at this 3000 hectare private game reserve will strive to add that personal touch, tailoring each event to every unique pair. Couples can say their ‘I do’s’ underneath their Rock Fig, a majestic Marula tree in a natural cave or in the unique bush boma. If you like traditional, the chapel is at your disposal too.

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    The main lodge offers 38 spacious and comfortable modern double rooms and two luxury villas. For extra privacy, the exclusive Shingwedzi and Skukuza Lodges offer a deluxe upgrade.

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    Naturally, a trip to a game reserve is not complete without a game drive! Unwind after your big day with a guided journey through the bushveld area, taking in the sights of buffalo, giraffe, hippopotamus, zebra, a large variety of antelope, and close to 50% of the bird species found in South Africa.

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    Experience a dream bushveld wedding come true at Monate Game Lodge. A venue where love falls in love again! For their wedding packages, contact 014 718 7000 or [email protected]

    Also read: Now trending: Bushveld weddings

    Image: supplied

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    Important questions to ask your wedding vendors

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    Planning your big day can easily become overwhelming. With so many moving parts, it’s easy to forget certain things. Protect yourself against these unexpected problems by doing your research and fact-checking these important details with your wedding vendors.

    – Their payment structure

    The majority of vendors will require a deposit and then the remainder of the balance in instalments. Make sure you know exactly when certain amounts are due so that you can plan your finances ahead.

    – What is included in the price

    This goes without saying, but you need to be exact on what you’ll be receiving with each service. Some venues, for example, might not include cleaning in their fee which would then be an extra expense you have to cover.

    – Whether they have liability insurance

    Liability insurance protects a company’s assets and pays for obligations such as medical costs and damage to property, giving you peace of mind should something serious go wrong.

    – If they have decor restrictions

    Your vision of floral chandeliers and (eco-friendly) glitter sparkling all over might be unattainable if your wedding venue is strict with what decor is allowed on site.

    – If they’re accessible for handicapped guests

    It’s incredibly important to cater to your wedding guests, and if any of them require wheelchair ramps, railings or any other services, your wedding venue should ideally provide them for you.

    If you may you pick your own vendors

    Some wedding venues have approved lists of vendors that can be used, so it’s important to check if you can bring in your own.

    – Their cancellation policy

    If for any reason, you need to cancel this service, it’s best to know how far in advance you have to do it to get your money (or at least some of it) back.

    – If they have on-site parking

    This one’s a biggie. If your guests are travelling far in cars, they’re going to need somewhere to park.

    – Their backup plan in the event of last-minute change

    Rain, extra guests, food shortages…Accidents happen and it’s always best to have a backup plan. Ideally, your wedding vendor has a plan in place for this last-minute occurrences.

    – Overtime fees

    Sometimes the party is too good to end. In the event of going overtime, you don’t want to be surprised with an exorbitant bill from your wedding vendors. Make sure to check their rates before the big day so that you’re prepared come wedding day.

    – Whether they cater to LGBTQI+ couples

    Many vendors are quite traditional and do not offer their services to those who belong to the LGBTQI+ community. If this does not fall in line with your beliefs, it’s best to know before you agree to work with a specific wedding vendor.

    – Ask for references!

    It’s a great idea to check in with other couples who have worked with these vendors about their experiences to get a more realistic view of the service you can expect.

    Also read: Hidden costs to consider when wedding planning

    Feature image: Pexels

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    In Venues

    Strange places people have tied the knot

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    Your wedding day should be exactly what you want it to be. Whether its artsy or “uptight”, if it makes you happy then that’s all that matters! Some couples really take this advice to heart, having their weddings in all sorts of strange locations.

    There are always some unusual weddings happening somewhere in the world.  Here are some of our favourite strange places where people have tied the knot:

    – Abandoned train station 

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    On October 13, 2012 this couple got married at an abandoned train station in Michigan, USA. Robert Nixon and wife Myla, according to their Instagram page @deadsledbrand, are “a couple of hearse loving weirdos”.

    It seems that the pair have a love for all things creepy, so their abandoned train station wedding must have been a mirror of their personalities.

    – Whole Foods 

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    Jacqueline Aronson and her husband, Ross had their wedding at Whole Foods, an American supermarket which caters to healthy eaters by selling products free of hydrogenated fats, artificial colours and flavours, and preservatives.

    It’s possible that the reason behind their supermarket wedding can be found in their engagement story… the big question (‘will you marry me?’) was asked in the flower aisle of a Whole Foods.

    – Taco Bell

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    Dan Ryckert and his bride, Bianca, said “I do” in a Taco Bell in Las Vegas. The Mexican food chain is very popular in the US and this couple is probably one of thousands of couples who dreamed of tying the knot with tacos to follow.

    We hope their love is as spicy as the food they enjoy!

    – Gas station 

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    You’ve heard of public proposals, but we bet you’ve never seen a public wedding. There must have been tons of unknown onlookers, who perhaps hoped to fill their tanks, at these gas station nuptials.

    A gas station wedding may not be for everyone, but these wedding-goers seem to be having a great time.

    – The Apple Store 

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    For some people, phones are very important in their lives. Your entire life is on that phone…right? This couple took their passion for their iPhones to the next level by getting hitched at an Apple Store. There is not much information about the couple online, despite their apparent love for technology.

    Image: Instagram / Digital Spark Weddings 

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    In Advice

    Now trending: Bushveld weddings

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    Tranquility, serenity, peace: three words that come to mind in the African bush. A place of wild nature and escapism, the bushveld makes for the perfect place to spend quality time with your loved ones.

    Celebrate the beauty of nature by saying your ‘I do’s’ in the great outdoors. It’s the perfect ode to Africa. In South Africa we are spoilt for choice with stunning landscapes and exciting game reserves to meet our wildest dreams.

    There are a host of dreamy bushveld wedding venues throughout the country, but one that stands above the rest is Monate Game Lodge. Nestled in the peaceful Limpopo Province, Monate Game Lodge is a 3000-hectare private game reserve that tailors every event to the couple. Here, you’ll receive a personalised experience that is both memorable and magical.

    Say you ‘I do’s’ beneath their Rock Fig, under a majestic Marula tree, in a natural cave or a traditional chapel.

    Monate Game Lodge is making it easier for couples to have their perfect day. Book your dream summer wedding at Monate Game Lodge during the month of December 2020 or January 2021 and receive complimentary venue hire! Enquire now: 014 718 7000 or [email protected].

     

    Feature image: supplied

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    In Destination

    Get married for free in this luxury department store

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    Take your love of shopping to new heights by literally getting married in a luxury London-based department store.

    Luxury department store Fortnum & Mason is one of London’s most iconic landmarks. After its 313 years of business, they are now offering couples the chance to say their ‘I do’s’ in their store.

    The exclusive offer is running for the month of February only in honour of Valentines Day. Couples can get married in their newly erected pop-up ‘Chapel of Love’ for free. The chapel instillation will feature the iconic Fortnum’s clock, illuminated stained-glass windows and a chiming wedding bell, as well as a neon pink ‘Chapel of Love’ sign.

    The 14-metre installation will be on the lower ground floor of the department store, and is also a perfect place to propose.

    “For us, Valentine’s Day isn’t just about romance – we want all of our customers to share in the joy-giving gifts and unforgettable experiences that Fortnum’s has become synonymous with,” explains Fortnum & Mason’s customer experience director Zia Zareem-Slade. “That’s why, this year, we are celebrating our friends, loved ones and everything in-between by launching The Chapel of Love.”

    “We hope this will bring joy to all of our customers, no matter who they love this February.”

    Those wanting to get married here will have to book ahead of time and will have to obtain a marriage licence and a registrar beforehand.

    The chapel is also open to the public, so anyone may swing by and capture some cute images.

    Feature image: Instagram / Fortnum & Mason

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    In Destination

    Six haunted wedding venues to get married in

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    If you or your partner are into the more scary side of life, you may be wondering how to incorporate this into your wedding. You may think it’s impossible, but it’s not. A haunted wedding venue is a perfect option to include on your special day.

    It may sound strange, but the architecture is usually stunning so it adds to the ambience and it would be a cool and unusual twist.

    Here are six haunted wedding venue examples:

    – Ohio State Reformatory, Mansfield, Ohio

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    This Gothic-styled building in Ohio was formerly a correctional facility which housed more than 155 000 men. There are 215 graves outside the building and many visitors claim to have experiences with paranormal entities.

    There have been reports of guests being pushed and punched, cellar doors slamming closed, shadow sightings, and voices in the corridors.

    While the history of the building is troublesome, the architecture is stunning and makes for a great wedding venue.

    – Ackergill Tower, Caithness, Scotland 

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    Ackergill Tower has been standing since the 14th century. It’s lush green grass and wide-open spaces make for a perfect wedding backdrop.

    It is said that the ghost of Helen Gunn, also known as the green lady, roams the grounds of the castle. She was abducted and kept in the tower and in an attempt to escape she fell to her death.

    – Hampton Court Palace, Surrey

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    The palace was once home to Kind Henry VIII. You can imagine that it’s interior is extravagant and perfect for a wedding. In fact, the palace is one of the most famous historic wedding venues in the UK.

    Apparently, there are quite a few ghosts roaming the halls. Ghosts include Skeletor, The Grey Lady, and two of King Henry VIII’s wives, Catherine Howard and Jane Seymour.

    – Ettington Park Hotel, Stratford Upon Avon 

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B7GTewWjOh3/

    Ettington Park was previously the most haunted hotel in Britain. Guests have seen ghosts of a servant girl named Mary, Lady Emma, and a man who walks his dog through the library.

    The venue is often chosen as a wedding venue.

    – The Rose Hall Great House, Jamaica 

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B3DkNd2Byn2/

    A wedding in a tropical paradise like Jamaica is perfect! Right? This Jamaican venue offers more than what you expect from a Caribbean Island. The wedding venue is home to the spirit of a widow named the White Witch.

    In 1820, the house was owned by John Rose Palmer. He married a woman named Annee. The legend says that Annee had black magic powers which she used to murder Palmer, her next two husbands, and many lovers.

    People say she still resides in Rose Hall.

    – Rockwood Park & Museum, Delaware 

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B5DWTQFDF7a/

    The venue offers indoor and outdoor spaces for your ceremony and also does catering. On top of that, paranormal investigation tours are available too!  Add an extra twist, and have a paranormal investigation on the eve of your wedding.

    The venue claims that you have the chance to meet “long lost family members” who still reside in the mansion.

    Image: Instagram / fosteredphoto

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    Stunning vineyard wedding venues in South Africa

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    South Africa has an abundance of extraordinary wedding venues to choose from. From hotels to vineyards, the country is anything but lacking.

    Vineyards are some of the best venues as they can add an extra fairy-tale feel to your special day. Most have amazing indoor and outdoor facilities and come with special wedding packages. If you’re looking to go the vineyard route for your venue, you’re spoilt for choice.

    Here are some of our favourite vineyard wedding venues in South Africa:

    – The Conservatory, Franschhoek 

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    The Conservatory is surrounded by vineyards and ancient oaks. The venue is largely made of glass, which means you’ll get some great lighting if you opt for an indoor ceremony or reception. You have the option to have your festivities outside in the vineyards too.

    On their website, The Conservatory says “Our philosophy is simple yet stylish, inspiring but versatile, catering to all who require a blank canvas to create a unique event that transforms a space into a true reflection of themselves.”

    – Zorgvliet Wine Estate, Stellenbosch 

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    In the Banghoek Valley near Stellenbosch, at Zorgvliet wines, you’ll have the stunning Simonsberg Mountains as the backdrop for your wedding. The estate offers several different facilities for your special day. The Oak room is the venue for receptions, but they also have a chapel and a room for pre-reception drinks.

    – Highberry Farm, Somerset West 

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    This relatively new venue was completed in 2018. If you’re looking for a venue that hasn’t been seen hundreds of times, then this is the one for you. Views of vineyards, dams, the surrounding mountain range and horse paddocks will be the backdrop of your special day.

    The venue sits 120 people, includes a dance floor and comes with facilities including a fully equipped kitchen, a licensed bar, as well as a spacious lawn on which a marquee could be erected or canapés and live music can be held. It also contains a more intimate utility area upstairs that may be used as a chapel.

    – Leipzig Country House, Worcester 

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    At the Leipzig Country House you’ll be sure to have your fairytale dreams come true. For your ceremony’s venue you can choose from the century-old brandy cellar overlooking the vineyards or a tranquil garden with towering oaks. The wedding reception will be held in the wine cellar which seats 130 guests.

    “The endless vistas, surrounding vineyards, rolling lawns of the amphitheater and rural charm of the historic buildings provide a stunning canvas to capture lasting memories,” says the Leipzig Country House.

    – Marlenique Estate, Simondium area of the Winelands district

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    The venue is central to Paarl, Franschhoek and Stellenbosch. It can hold 350 guests with dancing and 400 without a dance floor. With mountains and orchards as your backdrop, you’re sure to have a dreamy day.

    Open air weddings on the lawns beside the fruit orchards or on their private stretch of the Berg River are an option.

    – Bakenhof Winelands Venue, Wellington 

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    About an hour away from Cape Town, the venue is situated on a hill of a private grape farm. The incredible views are out of this world and are sure to make you day even more special than it already is.

    Bakenhof says, “We focus on a unique, personalised and unhurried experience. Our philosophy is that your day is as important to us as it is to you, with our mission to exceed your expectations – be it day or night, formal or informal, summer or winter, sunshine or rain.”

    Image: Instagram /Bakenhof Winelands Venue

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    You can now get married by Chris Harrison at The Bachelor mansion

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    Fans of The Bachelor will be ecstatic to know that the venue where the famous reality show is set is now also available for hire as a wedding venue. To top it off, you can even ask celebrity host of the series, Chris Harrison, to officiate the marriage.

    Credit: Instagram/Chris Harrison

    Having been ordained as a minister, Harrison has since wed many a lucky couple who hit it off on The Bachelor or The Bachelorette.

    The famous Villa de la Vina in Malibu, US, is a 200-years-old Mediterranean-style building with a range of luxury features that will make for the perfect wedding venue. The venue, that can host 350 people, has an infinity pool and picturesque views of the surrounding canyons.

    If you want to have an extravagant wedding at this lavish venue, you’ll have to contact them for official quotes, but according to Wetpaint, you can rent it out for an icy $2,100 (R17 745) a night for personal use so we can only imagine what a wedding might set you back.

    Picture: Instagram

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    In Celebs

    Pinterest shadow bans plantation wedding content

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    You won’t be seeing any images from Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds’ 2012 nuptials on Pinterest and The Knot anymore. The prominent websites joined other platforms taking a stand by placing a shadow ban on all images relating to plantation weddings.

    Pinterest, The Knot Worldwide, Brides and Zola recently announced that they would be making changes to their platform that would restrict all references to plantations, as well as any language attempting to romanticise these locations as wedding venues.

    Those searching for such content will receive a notification that the images may violate Pinterest’s policies. The sites will no longer work with vendors that are plantations or attempt to romantacise such locations.

    This means that images from Ryan Reynold’s and Blake Lively’s 2012 wedding held at Boone Hall Plantation in South Carolina, have now been shadow banned from these popular sites.

    This move is in response to a campaign led by racial justice organization, Color of Change, who argued that the weddng industry was glamorising and capatalising sites of human rights atrocities.

    “The decision to glorify plantations as nostalgic sites of celebration is not an empowering one for the Black women and justice-minded people who use your site,” Color of Change wrote to the Knot Worldwide executives. “Plantations are physical reminders of one of the most horrific human rights abuses the world has ever seen. The wedding industry routinely denies the violent conditions Black people faced under chattel slavery by promoting plantations as romantic places to marry.”

    Many plantations in America thrived off slave labour and became places of human rights abuse for the people forced into these demeaning positions. As such, they’ve become painful reminders of a dark and sordid history for many African Americans who descended from such slaves.

    “Weddings should be a symbol of love and unity. Plantations represent none of those things,” said a Pinterest spokesperson. “We are working to limit the distribution of this content and accounts across our platform, and continue to not accept advertisements for them.”

    “We want to make sure we’re serving all our couples and that they don’t feel in any way discriminated against,” The Knot’s chief marketing officer Dhanusha Sivajee told Buzzfeed News.

    Image: Instagram / Ryan Reynolds

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