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    In Decor

    Creative table number ideas

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    Table numbers are essential for weddings with assigned seating, so why not have some fun with them? These creative table number ideas will allow you to express your personality and add to the theme of your wedding.

    Perspex

    If you’ve been to a wedding lately or seen any wedding photos, surely you would have noticed that perspex is trending in a big way. Get some calligraphy done on a small sheet of perspex and you’ve got a beautiful table number.

    Embroidery

    If you or a friend has a knack for embroidery, put it to use and make some cute and personalised table numbers.

    Picture frame

    This one is pretty simple and similar to the perspex idea but it is very easy to DIY. Just take an empty photo frame and write the numbers on the glass.

    Flag

    Pair a pretty printed flag with a tabletop holder and you have a standalone table number that’s ready for any table.

     

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    This little fella’s counterpart menu from our ‘Lila’ collection got a whole bunch of love over on stories earlier, so we thought we’d flash the table number version on the grid too. These little tabletop flag holders can be bought along with the flags or hired in pretty much any of collection designs. Or if you have something custom in mind, just let us know?? . . #whitecottageweddings #weddingplanning #weddingideas #weddinginspiration #weddinginspo #wedding2020 #wedding2019 #2019wedding #2020wedding #2020bride #engaged #engagedaf #weregettingmarried #shesaidyes? #northamptonshirewedding #bohobride #bohowedding #bohemianwedding #bohoweddingdecor #tablenumbers #bohoweddinginspo #handmadepaper #weddingflag #rusticwedding #rusticweddingideas #weddingstationery #weddingstationerydesign #coolwedding #rockmywedding

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    Wine bottle

    A clever and multi-functional table number – print a sticker with the table number and place it on a wine bottle to direct guests to their table and give them a glass of wine.

    Book

    Fold the pages of an old book to create a 3-dimensional table number.

    Geode

    Geodes are stunning on their own and make for brilliant table numbers with some writing on them.

    Flower/Leaf

    Spray paint a large flower or leaf in the colour of your choice, write the number on it and there you have it – an easy and cheap table number.

    Feature image: African Bear Photography

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    In Weddings

    Getting to know the cultures: Traditional Muslim wedding

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    First of all, Islamic marriage customs depend on the country, but all couples are guided by laws and practices stated in the Quran. A husband and wife are each other’s protector and comforter, and marriage is seen as a way to maintain the religion, especially when growing your family. So what exactly happens at a traditional Muslim wedding?

    Pre-wedding

    Meher 

    This is a payment made by the groom to his bride-to-be. It usually consists of two parts, prompt and deferred. Nowadays, most couples regard the ring as the prompt. The deferred amount is usually a smaller sum of money, an education, land or jewellery. The money belongs to the bride and she is free to do whatever she wants with it. Meher is a sign of security between the couple.

    Wedding

    Nikah

    The wedding ceremony is known as Nikah. In order to officialise the marriage, the couple only have to sign a marriage contract. The wedding can be officiated by any Muslim who is well versed with Islamic tradition. An Islamic wedding does not require an official clergy. Two people have to be present to witness the joyous union.

    To express their love and free choice, the couple repeat the word ‘qabul’ three times, which means ‘I accept’ in Arabic.

    Once the contract is signed, a piece of sweet fruit is shared by the happy couple.

    Fatihah and durud

    The officiant usually reads the Fatihah which is the first chapter of the Quran. They speak about the meaning of marriage and the bond that the newlywed couple will share and their responsibilities to Allah and each other. It is not uncommon for a Muslim couple to not share vows. The newlyweds focus on what their officiant is saying.

    Post-wedding

    Walima

    This is similar to a wedding reception. The purpose of a walima is to announce and rejoice the recent matrimony. Loved ones will gather and feast to celebrate the newlyweds.

    It’s important to note that many wedding traditions vary as a result of the different regions. So some practices may not be the same all over.

     

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    Shayaan and Nicola’s #walima

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    In Fashion

    Dresses we love: Long sleeves

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    Long-sleeved wedding dresses are no longer considered conservative but are a fashionable addition to any wedding dress. Brides are able to incorporate different fabrics and styles within the sleeves and will also be kept somewhat warm if they are having a winter wedding.

    Here are some of the latest long-sleeved wedding dresses that are available locally:

    Timeless Bridal Couture

    A detailed lace bodice that extends to the sleeves.

    Elbeth Gillis

    A simple and elegant long sleeve dress with button detail.

    Cindy Bam

    A long-sleeved lace bodice paired with a simple skirt for a simple and classic look.

    Chanelle Cindy Bridal

    An embellished long-sleeved bodice for that wow-factor.

    Veil Bridal Couture

    A body-hugging simple full length sleeved dress with lace detail.

    Bo and Luca

    Hand-embroidered and featuring balloon sleeves.

    Vonvé Bridal Couture

    An off-the-shoulder long sleeve with an intricate lace design.

    Olivelli

    A simple dress with lace sleeves for a classic and feminine look.

    Feature Image: Visual Poetry Photography

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    In Advice

    Where to go for wedding dance lessons in Cape Town

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    The first dance is daunting, to say the least, especially if you and your partner aren’t big on the dance front. Instead of worrying about showing off your two left feet, we’ve rounded up some of Cape Town’s finest studios where you can fine-tune your best ballroom moves:

    1.Phoenix Dance Company

    Based in Belville, Cape Town, this dance studio offers a wide variety of dance classes including lessons on how to perfect your first dance. No previous dance experience is required. If you and your partner can’t decide on a song, they can also help you pick the perfect tune. They also offer classes for the father-daughter dance, bridal party and parents.

    2. The John Hamman School of Ballroom Dance

    Based in Newlands, Cape Town, here you’ll feel confident as they teach you all the right moves. They offer quick classes which means you won’t have to spend too much time learning your first dance.

    3. Enerchi Dance

    Based in Claremont, Cape Town. They offer a variety of packages to choose from, and can tailor each dance to suit every couple’s needs. Enerchi Dance also customises your dance according to the size of your dance floor.

    4. Paradiso Academy

    Based in Zonnebloem, Cape Town. Forget the stress and panic involved with wedding planning and have a little fun while learning your first dance or father-daughter dance. Again, no experience required!

    5. Jacques Carstens Dance Studio

    Based in Belville, Cape Town. This dance studio will be there to help you every (dance) step of the way, with a hefty side of fun.

    Image: Unsplash

     

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    Getting to know the cultures: Traditional Jewish wedding

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    The Jewish religion has been around for over 3 000 years and there are an estimated 70 000 people living in South Africa that practice the Judaism. Various traditions and rituals are performed during the union of a couple, but what exactly happens at a traditional Jewish wedding?

    Pre wedding

    Kabbalat Panim

    – This is when the soon-to-be wed couple refrain from seeing each other for one whole week before the wedding. By doing so excitement is created between the couple and they are overjoyed once they lay their eyes on each other again.

    Fasting

    – The happy couple will fast on their big day. It is viewed as being similar to the fast on Yom Kippur. After the ceremony the couple will share their first meal together and break their fast.

    Bedeken

    – The groom makes sure the woman he is about to marry is his partner. Once he sets eyes upon her, he proceeds to remove the veil over her face. The veil is a sign of modesty and symbolises that their love is not based on physical appearance but on what’s on inside. This tradition stems back to biblical times when Jacob was tricked into marrying his partner’s sister. The trickery took place because she wore a veil.

    Ketubah

    – This document details the grooms responsibilities to his partner. It’s a promise of their love and what’s to come. The love birds will sit side by side and overlook their unifying document. It is then signed by both of them. Two people should be present to witness this promise and commitment.

    Wedding

    Chuppah

    – As the union begins the groom will make his way down the aisle with both parents at his side. The bride then follows with her parents. The couple make their way to the Chuppah which is basically like a canopy. The Chuppah needs to have four corners and be covered by a roof. The Chuppah is a symbol of the new home the married couple will build together.

    Circle

    – This tradition requires the bride to circle her partner seven times. The custom began because it was believed to create a protection for the partner.

    Sheva B’rachot

    – This means seven blessings. It’s derived from ancient teachings and can be recited in Hebrew or English. The blessings translate to celebration, power of love and the joy of this union. It will usually be recited over a cup of wine and then the couple will sip from a cup to seal the blessing.

    Breaking the glass

    – The nuptials are then concluded with the man standing on a glass in a cloth bag. It stands for the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem. Basically meaning that even in most joyous occasions you must not forget all the pain in the world. Everyone then shouts Mazel Tov! Which means congratulations or good luck.

     

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    Lindsay & Cory’s magical wedding was featured on the @smashingtheglass wedding blog today and we’re super happy to see such a stunning event getting the attention it deserves! It was a pleasure working with this all-star team of vendors to make beautiful things happen. ____ Posted @withrepost • @smashingtheglass ?? @lindsayrgross⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ?? @Cgmoney ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ? @malomanstudios⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ? @erichiresweddings⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ? @ketubahdotcom #STGVendor⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ? @karmag.events⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ? @vizcaya_museum⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ? @verawanggang⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ? @manoloblahnikhq⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ? @juliarohdedesigns ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ? @tropics.entertainment ? @thierryisambert ? @celebrationsbykathy ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀

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    Post ceremony

    Yichud

    – This tradition sees the newly wed couple reflect on their recent marriage. They will go to a secluded spot and spend a few minutes alone together. They are able to bond and share this special time together without any disturbances to focus on each other. Their attention is completely on each other.

     

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    These two really brought the sunshine. Smiles from start to finish and we ? it

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    Image: Wesley Vorster Photography

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    In Fashion

    Movie wedding dresses we can’t forget

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    After binging the wedding movie watch list there are a few wedding dresses we just simply can’t forget. Even though none of the marriages are real, we can’t help but fall in love with these nuptial gowns. The list is endless, but have a look at a few of our favourites:

    Funny Face (1957)

    Audrey Hepburn and Fred Astaire star in this musical romantic comedy. Audrey wore a Givenchy dropped-waist gown. It consisted of a tight bodice and full skirt.

    The Sound of Music (1965)

    This classic film followed a postulant that eventually becomes a governess for a family of seven children and a widowed naval captain. Julie Andrews wore a beautiful A-line dress consisting of a V-neck and button-up bodice.

     

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    Wedding ?

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    Ever After (1998)

    This movie was inspired by the Cinderella fairytale. Drew Barrymore wears a Renaissance inspired wedding dress. It featured a pair of wings, beaded bodice, detailed sleeves and is often referred to as the ‘breathe gown’.


    Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones (2002)

    Natalie Portman starred as Padmé Amidala in the Star Wars prequels. When she wed Anakin Skywalker she wore a dress made by film costumer designer Trisha Biggar. The gown was very intricate and featured a lot of beads, pearls and lace detail.


    Sex and the City (2008)

    Set after the series that took place from 1998-2004, the movie sees Sarah Jessica Parker finally marrying Mr Big. Unfortunately, the wedding didn’t happen, but Carrie still looked as fashionable as always in her Vivienne Westwood dress.

    The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn – Part 1 (2011)

    After three movies and the constant frustration of the famous Twilight love triangle, Bella finally chose Edward. Kristen Stewart looked beautiful in her simple and elegant Carolina Herrera gown. The back of the dress consisted of intricate lace and an open back cut.

     

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    #thetwilightsagabreakingdaw #twilightwedding#bellasweddingdress #foreveralways

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    In Advice

    Non-alcoholic drink options that aren’t boring

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    The wedding reception normally involves speeches, food, drinks, dancing and laughter. For most people, drinks are a crucial social element a party cannot be without, but not everyone enjoys an alcoholic beverage. So what can you do to spice up your non-alcoholic options? We’ve got the solution:

    Presentation

    Before thinking about anything else, considering how you’d like to present your drinks is important. Serve up your non-alcoholic beverages with style by using snazzy straws (eco-friendly please), adding fruity or leafy finishings and serving them in elegant or stylish glasses. If you’re not wanting to make individual drinks then serve your drinks, such as refreshing lemonade or home-made ice tea, in beautiful glass beverage dispensers. The way you display things makes a big impact.


    Mocktails

    If you have a favourite cocktail, then change it up to exclude the alcohol element. This way you can have tasty alternatives that are still on par with the rest of the drink options. Making your own mix is another great idea and it could be your wedding’s signature mocktail. Creating a special drink is definitely a step up than just serving juice or water, while remaining inclusive of all your guests.

     

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    Mocktails anyone? Your signature drink should reflect the vibe your event exerts. Visit our Bohemian-Inspired 16th Birthday Party Blog to discover our recipes for “Flower Child” and “The Wanderer”. pc: @colljeffers https://www.laurenashleystudio.com/blog/https/wwwlaurenashleystudiocom/blog/2019/06/17/a-bohemain-inspired-16th-birthday-party ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⁠ #homemadecocktails #cocktails #mocktails #pink #pinkcocktails #pinkmocktails #wedding #weddings #weddingdrink #weddingdrinks #weddingcocktails #weddingmocktails #pinkweddingcocktails #pinkweddingmocktails #boho #outdoor #rustic #bohowedding #outdoorwedding #rusticwedding #weddinginspiration #bohemianinspired #thewanderer #flowerchild #signaturedrinks #sweet16birthdayparty #partyfavors #weddingfavors #weddingshowergifts #curatedgiftboxes

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    Poppin’ Bottles

    There’s nothing wrong with serving non-alcoholic beers, wine and champagne. Chances are, people may not even notice, especially if it’s good quality, and they’ll thank you when they wake up fresh as a daisy the next day.

    Plain and simple

    Serve your cooldrinks in their original glass bottles for a retro touch.

    Childish Delight

    Most people think weddings need to have alcohol or more ‘mature’ drinks, but who doesn’t love a great chocolate milkshake? Opt for a few milkshake options and hot chocolate to bring out the kid in everyone!

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    First-look prank groom will never forget

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    The first-look is the initial glimpse that your partner sees when you make your way down the aisle. Traditionally, your partner doesn’t see the grand wedding outfit until the big day. One bride-to-be, however, decided to add a humorous touch to her first-look reveal.

    Megan Martin decided to pull the ultimate prank on husband-to-be Logan Martin. Instead of her future hubby seeing her for the first time she asked Logan’s best friend Ryan Sowder to take part in the big joke. As Logan waited with his back turned, Ryan made his way down the aisle in a wedding dress.

    The muscular best man wore a strapless white gown and shocked the groom. Logan was completely taken by surprise and the prank resulted in endless laughter.

    The happy (and funny) couple wed on July 19, 2019.

    Picture: K Herman Photography

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    In Wedding Flowers & Bouquets

    In-season wedding flowers

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    Your wedding is approaching and planning is in full swing. You’ve thought about the outfit, the food, but what about the flowers? Flowers are used for your bouquet, boutonniere, decor, garlands, nosegays and more. Maybe you have an idea of which predominant flowers you’d like but how many of them are actually in season?

    Normally you can only get specific flowers in season when they bloom. This can be very unfortunate when you’re looking for something specific. Some brides end up importing flowers which can be quite costly.

    South Africa’s weather is usually warmer year round and therefore not as defined. The country is incredibly fortunate when it comes to flowers. With over 9000 species of fynbos, there shouldn’t be any issues with finding flowers, but it may be hard to decide! Here are a few in-season flower options:

    Spring and Summer in-season flowers
    • Hibiscus

    • Hydrangea

    • Peony

    • Roses

    • Lavender

    • Dahlias

     

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    #flowers #dahlia #dahlias #victoriaparkswansea #flowersofinstagram Aug 5, 2019

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    Autumn and Winter in-season flowers
    • Daffodil

     

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    Happy Daffodil Day ??? . . . . . #blissfulblooms #daffodil #happydaffodilday

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    • Protea

    • Hyacinth

     

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    #çiçek #sıfıredit #noedit #sümbül #flowers #hyacinthflower

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    • Snapdragon

    • Anthurium

     

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    Anthurium 8 settembre 2018 #fiori #balconifioriti #anthurium #settembre2018 #estate2018

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    In Food

    Delicious midnight snack ideas for your wedding

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    You’ve said ‘I do’ and tied the knot, the first dance is done and the sappy speeches are over. The evening turns into a party, you’re working up a sweat, and the caterers have packed everything away. What can you serve when your guests are feeling a bit peckish? Here are a few snacks that your guests will love.

    There are a few things to keep in mind when deciding on what snacks to serve:

    • Are your guests older and more mature or younger and hip?
    • What’s the vibe like? Is it more sophisticated and elegant or is it chilled and laid back?
    • Dietary requirements. For example, it might be awkward to only serve pizza slices when someone is lactose intolerant. So it’s important to cater your snacks as you would for you dinner catering.

    When you have your answers you’ll be able to customise your snack table accordingly.

    Pizza=Life

    Serve up tasty slices of pizza or have mini ones available. It’s simple and not too messy. Pizza is also a massive crowd-pleaser.


    Spill the corn

    Opt for ready-made mini boxes or have a machine and a self-help option. Don’t forget the spices! What’s popcorn without flavour?

     

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    Yum!!!! #wedding #weddingsigns #popcorn #weddingsnacks #alwayshanddrawn #signage ##fishermensinn

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    A cop’s dream

    Can anyone say doughnuts? Mini, holes or custom packaged boxes! The options are endless and so are the flavours!


    Not your usual burgers and chips

    Serve up some sliders with a couple of chips. Serving these tiny burgers makes it easy enough for your guests to eat and leaves them totally satisfied.


    Chopsticks and noodles

    Who doesn’t love chow mein? Set out cute Asian take-away boxes with chopsticks. Whatever your guests don’t eat, they can close up and take home.

     

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    Can’t say enough about Bham Eats (Kathy and Rick Claypoole) catering and Chef Wendy! They created a fantastic menu for my mother’s surprise birthday party this past weekend and everything was incredible! More about the catering and Bham Eats in a future blog post but meanwhile, so sorry if you are drooling over these sweet and spicy noodles with toasted sesame seeds in Chinese takeout boxes! They were as delicious as they look!!! ? . . . . #southernsenora #blogger #latinablogger #photographer #iphonephotography #canonphotography #birminghameats #sweetandspicynoodles #chefwendy #bhamfood #bhameatscatering #hooveral #chinesetakeoutbox #alacarteal #aroundtheworldin80years #barbturns80

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    Cookies and cream

    You can have mini cookies laid out with milk in shot glasses. Serve a few options of cookies so your guests can mix and match. Set out cute packets so your guests can take some home as well.

     

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    It’s #nationalchocolatechipcookieday and I’m here for it! ???

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    I love candy

    Candy bars are always popular. Provide packets or mini buckets so your guests can make a candy pack to take with them.

     

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    If you missed my “Candy Bar” You missed something special!! #welovecandy #canttellcanya #weddingcandybar #swannerkivettwedding2019

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