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    Weddings are stressful. Throw family into the mix, and sometimes you find a recipe for disaster. However, one wedding couple found that a few family members were ready to douse the traditional disaster recipe in petrol, set it alight and watch the flames burn it to smithereens. 

    A bit dramatic, but we can only imagine that that’s exactly how it must have felt for the couple on their wedding day when all of the groom’s female family members showed up to the ceremony dressed in white. 

    A 33-year-old groom recently took to Reddit to share his story of the wedding “prank,” which hadn’t exactly gone down too well. In an AITA (that stands for ’Am I the A-hole’) post, the groom explained that the women in his family are a very close-knit bunch which he explained is similar to a “unit” that is rather “toxic.” He went on to explain that the women in his family “tease and roast every new woman that enters the family by marriage” as a way to “test” to see if the women deserve to be a part of the family. 

    Everything from the look and style of the women is roasted as they spend months teasing her before announcing that she has finally been welcomed into the family. Unfortunately, the cycle continues with every new woman that attempts to enter.

    According to the groom, his brother warned him of the impending mess that was about to ensue as the “unit” planned to wear white on the wedding day. Despite the group vehemently denying the rumours, the day of the nuptials saw the women sporting white as the “ultimate test.”

    The result? The groom asked them to leave, which resulted in a scene being made. His aunts and mother refused to leave, forcing the groom to threaten “harsher action.” Thankfully, they eventually all left, but not without his cousins blasting him on social media. 

    “My cousin blasted me on social media later, saying I excluded all the women from the wedding because my wife was insecure that she couldn’t handle another woman’s presence at the wedding.”

    However, things didn’t end there. The groom had an argument with his mother who states that she simply wanted to see if his future wife was a “bridezilla.”

    “I haven’t seen the lot of them in two weeks and they’ve excluded me from everything.”

    Picture: Unsplash

    We love a good photo booth. Not only is it an excellent way to commemorate your wedding day, but it’s bound to keep your guests entertained. While renting a Kardashian-inspired photo booth may set you back thousands, creating your own version can be an affordable and memorable option.

    From floral backdrops to iPad Instagram filters, here are a few fun DIY photo booth hacks you can incorporate into your big day.

    It’s all about the floral 

    Come rain or shine, adding a floral backdrop is a great way to add a pop of colour to your pictures. However, you don’t have to get a florist to whip this up for you. Grab your tools, plywood, your favourite flowers and glue for a masterpiece.

    Chalk it up

    Adding a chalkboard is a great way to include a whimsical or industrial touch to your wedding. It all depends on the font you use. It’s also incredibly easy to create and won’t cost you too much.

     

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    A post shared by Isabel | Calligrapher (@chalk_n_ink_)

    A twinkle in the eye

    Is there anything more romantic or ethereal than string lights? Adding this to a neutral backdrop or a large piece of plywood will help create a simple, but a beautiful element to your guest’s photos.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CUD4nsiN8cQ/

    Nothing wrong with Neon

    How about a splash of rock and roll to your wedding day? You can personalise your photo booth by adding a custom neon sign. Having one of these bad boys will certainly get your guests talking and is an incredible way to add something special … maybe your favourite lyrics or quote.

    Pinterest

    A Polaroid cut-out

    Simple and easy to make at home, adding a photo frame to a stand (perhaps with a few flowers) will leave your photo-loving guests wanting more. You can add your favourite quote or your names and the date of your big day.

    Wedding Photo booth DIY
    Pinterest

    A photo box 

    All you need is a polaroid camera, a box and memories. Adding a photo box to your wedding day is an adorable way to collect memories that you can open when you have a chance. Provide guests with the opportunity to snap a few pics of themselves and deposit them into the box – simple and not too pricey!

     

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    A post shared by Polaroid (@polaroid)

    Bohemian style

    Adding macrame as your photo-op background can help blend in with the beautiful surroundings of your wedding or add a touch of simple elegance. Pop a few flowers on the frame and you’ve got a winner!

    Pinterest

    Picture: Instagram

    Weddings and stress go together like All Gold tomato sauce and slap chips – it’s the perfect combination. 

    The infamous Bridezilla always seems to be a tiny disaster away, but one bride appears to have taken the stereotype to its extreme. 

    A Reddit user shared a less than flattering story of a bride and groom on their wedding day. 

    According to a Reddit user, her friend was in desperate need of a photographer as they were on a tight budget – and we all know how expensive weddings can be. 

    While she was more than happy to help her friend out, the user did admit that snapping adorable dogs pics was actually her forte, opting to charge $250 (R3 600) for 10-hours of work. 

    The day started great. 

    “On the day of, I’m driving around following the bride as she goes from appointment to appointment before the ceremony, taking photos along the way. I shoot the ceremony itself, and during the reception I’m shooting speeches and people mingling,” says the photographer, adding that she started around 11:00 and was due to finish around 19:30. 

    “Around 5pm, food is being served, and I was told I cannot stop to eat because I need to be the photographer; in fact, they didn’t save me a spot at any table. I’m getting tired and at this point kinda regretting doing this for next to nothing,” says the photographer.

    That wasn’t the end though. She told the groom that she needed to take a 20-minute break in order to grab something to eat and drink as she didn’t have any more water in her water bottle. 

    The breaking point? The photographer was told by the groom that she needed to either be a photographer or leave without pay. 

    “With the heat, being hungry, being generally annoyed at the circumstances, I asked if he was sure, and he said yes, so I deleted all the photos I took in front of him and took off saying I’m not his photographer anymore,” says the photographer who is now wondering if she acted too harshly.

    “If I was to be paid $250, honestly at that point, I would have paid $250 just for a glass of cold water and somewhere to sit for 5 min,” says the photographer.

    Many users came to the photographer’s defence, stating that “if you’re going to be there all day, then they absolutely should be fed. Plus, it just seems like the polite thing to do,” stated one user. 


    Read Also: Wedding veils that will wow a crowd

    Picture: Unsplash


     

    2021 has been a rollercoaster ride filled with alcohol bans, gathering restrictions and rushing home from your friend’s home to make sure you don’t miss curfew. But finally, spring is in the air, and there are plenty of incredible spring wedding trends to admire. 

    The wedding industry may still be feeling the effects of the pandemic, and it’s evident in the trends for spring. Think smaller guest lists, more intimate settings, and fresh decor colours that are sure to liven up 2021 and beyond. It’s all about personal details and adding a non-traditional touch.  

    Here are a few of the top wedding trends for spring that we can’t get enough of right now: 

    Fairy lights 

    Outdoor weddings have become the norm thanks to COVID-19 as it provides a safer option for guests and vendors, with fairy lights and whimsical wedding tents now being added to every bride and groom’s shopping cart. Including twinkle lights in your decor offers a touch of romance and ethereal quality. The combination of drapery from tents and the proper mood lighting is sure to create a sense of brightness and ease for your wedding day. 

     

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    A post shared by Kaleydo (@kaleydo.official)

    A destination wedding with a twist 

    While we’d all love to spend our wedding day frolicking on the beach of Mauritius, travel has been up in the air lately. So, what do you do? You bring the destination to you, of course! Transformative design is the keyword for 2021 as couples use their favourite destinations to inspire their event’s decor, look, feel and colour palette. Whether it’s the sweet and savoury treats of France or the tropical vibes of Bali, this trend is all about immersing your guests in your favourite destination in the world. 

     

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    A post shared by @dreamsweddingidea

    Simple and intimate

    We’re looking to keep things simple in 2021 and that extends to the food and entertainment. More couples are turning to acoustic performances to entertain while guests enjoy an intimate restaurant-style dinner service. Hosting a reception service at your favourite restaurant is a great way to support local businesses, provide guests with good food and spend the evening in a relaxed setting. It may even be a little cheaper than hiring a catering company! 

    Quantity vs. quality

    There’s no question that 2020 has forced us to re-examine what we find important, and that includes downscaling from quantity to quality. More guests, more flowers, and the biggest wedding cake have all been replaced with a smaller guest list, simple yet beautiful flower arrangements and single-tier cakes. Small events will likely be the trend for the foreseeable future, not that we’re complaining.

    Fresh colours

    Neutral colour palettes are always an elegant touch, but couples are looking to shake things up with vibey colours that add a breath of fresh air. Bold pops of colour mixed with elegant prints are taking over spring as more couples exchange those “typical” wedding decor ideas for fun and bright colours.

    Picture: laurene_and_the_wolf

    It’s been a weird 18-months. Thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic, we’ve all needed to adjust our lifestyles – sanitise, wear masks, social distance – it’s been an interesting adventure. The pandemic has also spawned a host of trends as various industries learn to pivot and adapt to the “new normal”. 

    Our new reality has been pretty tough on the wedding industry, with thousands of couples watching their wedding date come and go without saying “I do.” However, grabbing a huge slice of wedding cake and sulking is the last thing couples are doing, birthing a new kind of pre-nuptial ceremony.

    There’s plenty that goes into planning a wedding. From choosing your dream venue to the perfect date, many couples are choosing not to compromise on the details of their dream day despite working within the confines of the pandemic. 

    The pretend wedding, or predding, has been an intimate substitute for wedding celebrations, honouring would-be wedding dates. There might be no signing of a marriage license, but it’s a great way to celebrate love with friends and family. 

    The hashtag #pretendwedding has been making the rounds on social media, a trend that’s still going strong despite the easing of lockdown restrictions. 

    A casual setting and dress code, and no strict itinerary makes this new trend a welcome distraction from the stress of wedding planning. Here are a few of our favourite “preddings” online. 

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CApO0J0F6jx/?utm_source=ig_embed&ig_rid=b5954adf-5802-4c03-b7fb-0841ec473b19

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CCObvNcHPVs/?utm_source=ig_embed&ig_rid=cff00f7a-0d72-4d2d-a6b4-7985b15d91f4

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CFIHpQdp5Qm/

    Picture Credit: Unsplash │Instagram 

     

    You’re about to say your “I dos,” an event that will undoubtedly sweep you up into a love bubble of bliss as you learn to adjust to your new life as Mr and Mrs. But after 18 months of living in close proximately (at least for some of us) with your other half, spending some quality time with the most important person in your life – you – is crucial to stepping into this life of partnership on the right foot.

    Indulging in a solomoon is a great way to get some much-needed “me time” before standing at the altar. Whether you choose to enjoy a week-long solo trip or a weekend under the stars, experts are adamant that prioritising some alone time is a must before embarking on your new journey. 

    What is a Solomoon?

    Think of it as a honeymoon, but solo. Basically, it’s an independent trip that’s taken before your wedding day. Marriage is about finding that sweet spot between independence and dependence, learning to build a life with someone while staying authentically you. Taking time out to enjoy your company – alone – is the perfect way to get reacquainted with yourself before getting married.

    Sky Villa Boutique Hotel – Plettenberg 

    Sky Villa Boutique Hotel

    Perched on a hilltop, Sky Villa offers incredible views of Plettenberg Bay that will definitely make your soon-to-be-husband a little jealous. It’s only a five-minute drive from the beach, but trust us, you won’t want to leave this sprawling property. They offer a range of accommodation options, but it’s the Sky Villa cottage that you have to take advantage of. The cottage provides comfort and luxury, with a touch of independence if you’re not keen on spending your time in a hotel during your getaway. A gym, restaurant, fynbos garden, swimming pool and their famous Sky bar are all on-site, so you’ll never have to leave (or lift a finger).

    Leobo Private Reserve – Vaalwater

    Solomoon - Leobo Private Reserve
    Lebo Private Game Reserve

    The key to an incredible solomoon is peace and quiet, and Leobo Private Reserve is paradise. Nestled within the Waterberg mountains, it’s a three hours drive from Johannesburg and offers everything you can possibly imagine for the nature-loving bride-to-be. Spend your day exploring this 20 000 acre reserve, with bird-watching, safaris, kayaking, game viewing and sky diving all on offer. Or enjoy a quiet time out by relaxing alongside the swimming pool or enjoying the mesmerising views. There’s literally something for everyone

    Woodsong Cottage – Dargle, KwaZulu-Natal 

    Solomoon - Woodsong
    Woodsong Cottage Airbnb

    Resorts aren’t the only place you can enjoy a solo vacation. If you love spending time on your own, blasting some R&B while cooking up a storm, then self-catering is a great option. Whether you’re exploring the lush landscapes of KwaZulu-Natal or looking for something a little closer to home, Woodsong Cottage is a steal. Nestled in the Dargle Valley and overlooking the Umngeni River, it provides some amazing views for the ideal time alone. Each bedroom leads out onto the deck, where views, views, and more views are on offer. A feast for your eyes for sure, but it’s the minimalist interior design and sense of escape from the bustle of wedding planning that will really leave you screaming with delight. 

    A Treehouse Stay – Port Elizabeth 

    Port Elizabeth Treehouse
    Port Elizabeth Treehouse Airbnb

    Allow your inner child to live vicariously through you before committing yourself to a life of forever with your person by booking a stay at this incredible Port Elizabeth Treehouse. You know it’s great when it’s ranked one of the top treehouse stays in South Africa, with endless views of the valley and sea in the distance right outside your window. Don’t forget to take your Lush bath bomb as you unwind in a bathtub that offers some incredible views of the forest – a nature lover’s dream! Grab a book and enjoy the incredible bird calls, soaking in the magical yet simple architectural design and interior. If it’s not on your solomoon list, then make sure to add it to your travel bucket list.

    Picture: Spirited Pursuit

    TV host/ musician Sipho ‘Psyfo’ Ngwenya and his girlfriend Aamirah Mirah tied the knot in an intimate wedding ceremony this past weekend, attended by family only.

    The pair met in 2017, dated for two years, and got engaged on August 9, 2019.

    Sipho and Aamirah shared pictures of their intimate wedding where everyone was wearing white. They had their beautiful ceremony on top of a hill at Aamirah’s hometown.

    Sipho posted: ‘Officially Mr and Mrs! I could not have wanted a better partner to do this with. I love you very much Mrs Ngwenya’.

     

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    A post shared by SIDWELL (@sidwell_n)

    Aamirah went full-on with beautiful pictures and a heartwarming caption.

    “Good people ? This past Saturday (21/11/2020), was the most beautiful day of my life. I got married to my best friend on top of a mountain, in my home province and I don’t have all the words to express how happy and in love I am with this man who has been so committed and loyal to me.

    She added: “I have many interesting and funny stories to share about our special day. Overall, I can’t believe we did it mate.”

     

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    A post shared by اميرة (@mirah_aamirah)

    The brid,e who wore unconventional black and white pants suits and sneakers, also posted pictures of the family and the setting of the wedding.

     

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    A post shared by اميرة (@mirah_aamirah)

    Picture: Instagram

    Nightclub owner from Nigeria Mike Eze-Nwalie Nwogu, also known as ‘Pretty Mike’, attended a friend’s wedding and he turned his plus one to a plus six by rocking up to the ceremony with six pregnant women on his arm, claiming he’s the father of all the kids.

    Mike shared a video on Instagram of them all together in their wedding attire and shows off their baby bumps, one following the other.

    He captioned: ‘PM and his six Baby Mothers to be… no film trick, we are just living our best life. #ABetterTime #HappyHome #Familyiseverything #babybum.’

    After Mike shocked everyone with his appearance, he posted another video on Instagram with four of his women. He asked people to suggest a name for his lifestyle.

    ‘This is a short Preview to my next post, a vibe on a different level,a Happy vibe,Suspense vibe,Scary vibe and a Thrilling lifestyle…….. Plus there will be a 100k giveaway to the person that comes up with the perfect name to this my lifestyle, and the only way to win, is to have the most likes and comments underneath the name u suggest #LagosZaddy #HusbandMaterial #PabloCubanaReLoading #AbetterTime. 

    Picture: Instagram

    As you look through your closet trying to find the perfect dress to wear to a wedding, there are some things that you need to be mindful of.

    Never mind the style of your outfit, it is basic etiquette to avoid certain colours.

    If you are not sure what those are, here are five colours you should avoid wearing.

    White

    80% of brides wear white to their wedding, and it’s important that a bride stands out on her special day. You do not want to look like you’re trying to upstage her. Only wear white when the bride has specifically asked guest to.

    Glitter (gold or anything metallic) 

    If not white, the bride I most likely to wear a champagne-coloured dress, which you won’t know until you see her.

    To stay on the safe side, avoid ensembles that are predominantly gold or champagne-colored.

    The color the bridesmaids wear

    If you can, ask the bride for a heads-up on what color the bridesmaids’ dresses are so you won’t look like the one that wasn’t included.

    If you don’t know the bride or any of the bridesmaids, use the wedding invitation as a clue—usually, an invite is designed to match a wedding’s colour palette.

    Overly bright colours

    Again, this could mean that you want the spotlight to be on you. Imagine rocking up wearing a neon dress. When choosing a bright colour, consider the season and where the wedding is going to be held.

    Denim

    This colour (fabric) comes across as too casual for a wedding. You can get away with wearing denim if it is a denim jacket as a coverup for a cold-weather event.

    Picture: Unsplash

    Sofia Vergara and Joe Manganiello celebrated their fifth wedding anniversary on November 22, 2020. In honour of their special day, they both took to social media to share moments from their Palm Beach, Florida wedding.

    Joe shared a video of them taking their first dance and captioned it ‘Happy Fifth Anniversary mi amor.
    I love you so much’.

     

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    A post shared by JOE MANGANIELLO (@joemanganiello)

    Sofia posted four pictures on her Instagram page and kept her message to her husband short and sweet. ”Feliz 5th anniversary !!!@joemanganiello ❤️❤️❤️you!’.

     

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    A post shared by Sofia Vergara (@sofiavergara)

    It was love at first sight for Joe when he first met Sofia at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner in May of 2014.

    The pair got engaged on Christmas Day in  2014 after dating for six months, and they officially became husband and wife on November 22, 2015.

    They had a luxurious wedding of 400 guests at The Breakers Palm Beach resort in Florida. Out of the celebrities that attended, Reese Witherspoon and Pitbull were there and the singer brought the heat to the dance floor with a performance.

    Vergara wore an ivory lace-brocaded custom Zuhair Murad gown and accessories in Lorraine Schwartz jewelry as she walked down the aisle.

    Picture: Instagram