Your wedding day is considered the happiest day of your life, so why not spend it in a place you love? Churches, beaches and gardens are popular wedding venues for a reason. They fit with your theme, they’re easy and accessible. But, if you want to stray away from the norm, why not consider getting married on a mountain top?
Lovers of the outdoors will especially favour this trend. It’s easy and stunning. There is literally no decor required: the scenery is your backdrop. This way, you also save on decor costs.
Mountains and cliffs are also great locations for your wedding photoshoot if you still want a church wedding. To make your images extra special, wait until sundown to capture these memorable moments. Here are some ideas to inspire you.
This is one wedding theme that’s sure to charm you. Carissa Rumps of Wild Rumpus Photography worked with a host of talented photographers and vendors to create a styled wedding photoshoot bringing the magical world of Harry Potter to life. From a real-life Hedwig to a Butterbeer cocktail, we solemnly swear that you will love it.
The whimsical shoot is an ode to a childhood favourite much loved by many. Potter-heads will recognise various references like a look-alike Hogwarts Express train, a sorting hat-esque cake, a live owl and of course, a Griffindor inspired colour scheme of reds and golds. Take a look at these stunning shots.
Images from vendors: Wild Rumpus Collective, Crystal Vision Events, Liza Spurlock Photography, Write This Way Calligraphy.
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.
If you’ve been considering a destination wedding but you’re not sure where to head to then you’re in luck. Flowercard, a UK based company specialising in floral giftcards, has compiled a list of the best places to go.
Flowercard’s list, “The 2020 Destination Wedding Index” compiles data of all things wedding. They conducted a study into the best places to get married, and their methodology was quite thorough! First, they selected destinations from a variety of sources including theknot.com, junebugweddings.com, hitched.co.uk, and brides.com. They then took into consideration the best times for wedding ceremonies in each destination. Weather was included in this consideration, of course.
Another consideration they took into account included LGBTQ+ friendliness, with their information coming from ilga.org. Instagram hashtags and searches also featured in their method. Finally, with the use of Google Keyword Planner, they figured out how many monthly searches there were for each place in relation to weddings by searching “Getting married in X”.
After gathering all the information, they ranked destinations using a weighted ranking system. They broke elements down into four categories including weather, cost, LGBTQ+ and online popularity. Each factor was weighted equally.
It is important to remember that much of the data they collected was UK specific (such as monthly google searches). This means the results may have been slightly different had the research been done in other countries. Nevertheless, the information is still very useful!
Here are their top 10 destinations and their overall scores (x/100):
For all its faults and fears, social media gets one thing right: it brings us together. Yes, the internet is vast and scary but it can also be the site of true love and happiness. We’ve seen couples from different parts of the globe meet and fall in love all from behind a tiny phonescreen. It’s a truly modern world we live in, and Sandhya and Dylan’s love story exemplifies that.
Credit: Margaux Cronje Photography
Sandhya and Dylan’s worlds were brought together through online dating app Bumble. At the time, Sandhya was living in Australia but had come to South Africa to visit family. They met at the Fire and Ice bar in Melrose Arch for milkshakes and haven’t gone a day without speaking since. Living in different countries, Sandhya and Dylan agreed to remain friends but that didn’t last long.
“It was a spark like none I had previously experienced… it was a romance with a strong emotional and intellectual connection. We always felt like we were learning things from one another and it almost didn’t matter that we were physically apart.”
In August 2018, Sandhya and Dylan decided to close the gap when Sandhya moved to South Africa. It was a difficult decision: in Australia she was an ambitious career woman in a high-paced corporate field, one that was still in its infancy stages in South Africa. Meaningful advice from her mother, however, remedied her torn mind.
“If you miss out on your dream job, you’ll regret it for a couple of years… but if you miss out on your true love, you’ll regret it forever. Find your courage and go see.”
The move was worth it. The couple soon became engaged at Nambiti Game Reserve in KwaZulu-Natal whilst on a romantic private game drive at sunset.
“The ranger said Dylan had booked a romantic package that included private sunset drinks and photos in a romantic location. We hopped out and another ranger picked us up and drove us to a viewpoint overlooking the entire Nambiti reserve and valley. It was stunning… we could see elephants wandering below us and the Drakensburg mountain range in the distance… Our ranger started to take photos of us, and while I was busy posing, I turned around to find Dylan on one knee with a ring box in his hand!”
The engagement ring was in the shape of a Protea flower, so that Sandhya will always have a piece of Africa with her wherever they go next.
In December 2019, Sandhya and Dylan said ‘I do’ in a stunning ceremony fusing South African, Indian and Irish Catholic traditions, held at the Inanda Polo Club in Sandton.
With an an ‘enchanted garden’ feel, their decor was more focused on understated elegance over the traditional colourful Indian decor. Even the traditional Pandal, a canopy under which the ceremony is held, was draped in white chiffon fabric with rustic white flowers and greenery instead of the usual gold decor.
Credit: Margaux Cronje Photography
For their nuptials, Sandhya wore a beautiful bridal sari in burnt orange made from raw silk and embellished with gold thread, gifted to her from her aunt who had recently travelled to India. The sari even had to be draped by a professional dresser to ensure it was pleated correctly. She accessorised with ‘jimki’ earrings, a heavy choker and necklace, as well as a belt – all of which were gold with touches of cerise. Her hair was styled in a traditional South Indian plait decorated with jewels and lots of white flowers. She had a waist-length plait attached to her hair, and it was so heavy she has to take painkillers to offset the pain! Dylan impressed in a traditional cream military-style suit jacket and burgundy pants.
Credit: Margaux Cronje Photography
The wedding, however, did not go as smoothly as expected. First, the driver was late to pick Sandhya and her sister up due to a flat tire then when he did arrive, the car wouldn’t start! As the car was being fixed, Sandhya’s father called to say he had left the thali, a small golden necklace that the groom ties around the bride’s neck to conclude the wedding, at home. The tying of the thali is the most important and sacred part of a South Indian wedding, and without it there could be no wedding. Luckily the car was still stuck and Sandhya was able to get it.
In another crisis, Sandhya’s written vows, a tradition to honour Dylan’s Irish Catholic heritage, was literally gone with the wind.
“The priest announced “the bride and groom have written vows which they will read”, and I looked to my sister to pass them to me. She looked back at me wide-eyed and motioned to the very empty chair she was sitting on, before mouthing “the vows have flown away”. They unfortunately had to cut this part of the ceremony out, but everyone was able to laugh about it later.
Sandhya’s top advice for couples planning their wedding is to not sweat the small stuff, and that there is no need to break the bank. “At the end of it all, people come to your wedding to celebrate the love you have for each other, not to ogle the décor or to comment on the colour choice of your flowers. ”
Her final words of wisdom are “less stress, more champagne! If you are stressed, your guests will be stressed, and if you are worrying about things on your wedding day, your guests will also get that negative vibe. Have fun, drink some wine, dance a lot, and don’t get wound up about small things going wrong…Laugh it off and enjoy it! You’ll wake up the next day and it will seem like a dream.”
Credit: Margaux Cronje Photography
All images were amazingly captured by Margaux Cronje. You can view her website HERE.
Supermodel, entrepreneur and body activist Ashley Graham has been championing for the fashion industry to become more inclusive of plus-size women for years. Her latest collaboration with popular bridal line Pronovias seeks to make what is said to the happiest day of a woman’s life even better.
Ashley Graham x Pronovias is a bridal line designed with all women in mind. A first-of-its-kind collaboration, Graham worked with Pronovias Chief Artistic Director Alessandra Rinaudo to create a varied collection of stunning bridal designs suited to all body types. The 16-piece capsule collection runs from size 0-34 and costs between $1,000 (R14 148) to $3,500 (R49 518) per dress. The dresses each include new, built-in shapewear and an integrated, supportive bra. The line will be available in early 2020 in Pronovias boutiques and partners across the globe.
Graham herself knows the difficulties of wedding dress shopping. “From shopping for the perfect wedding dress to the big reveal on your special day, women should feel confident and empowered throughout the entire process,” she said in a press release. “When I shopped for my wedding dress 10 years ago, I had difficulty finding a style in my size that fit well and made me feel special.”
In an Instagram post, Graham explains she had to compromise on her dream dress because there was simply nothing in the specific shape she wanted that would fit her.
“I found a silhouette that I loved, but I had to accept major details I didn’t want because there was nothing in that shape that fit me. And it wasn’t even the right size! We ended up adding a panel to a size 10 dress off the rack so it would fit my 16 frame to make it work.”
“Finding a dream dress is something I would have loved to experience! Andddd I want all of you to be able to have! I’m so excited to be partnering with @pronovias to create a bridal line for everyone. The collection runs from size 0-34 and there is something for any type of bride! There are so many different dresses for anyone from the classic bride to the ultra-glam bride and options with SLEEVES, which I love. By far my favorite part is that every dress has shapewear and bras built-in. I can’t WAIT for you guys to see the collection when it’s out this March! You shouldn’t have to compromise who you are because of what’s on the rack ????”
Weddings can be taxing on the environment. Yes, flower walls are beautiful and balloon decor is whimsical, but they’re also wasteful and harmful for the environment. As the wedding industry shifts towards more sustainable practices, one plant rises above.
Spekboom has long been lauded for its magical powers. Also known as Pork Bush or Elephant’s Food, this water-wise tree of wonder can absorb higher amounts of carbon dioxide than any other plant in existence. A healthy thicket of this South African treasure trove is said to be ten times more effective at removing carbon dioxide from the air than the Amazon Forest.
South Africans are encouraged to plant spekboom wherever they may to play their part in combatting climate change. Those lacking a green thumb need not worry. The plant is easy to grow and water-wise, meaning it is low maintenance.
There are so many ways to incorporate this hard-working plant into your wedding. Here are some ideas.
Bridal bouquet:
Spekboom is a perfectly rustic addition to your bridal bouquet. If you’re not into the leaves, spekboom in full bloom is typically covered in tiny pink flowers that will add a beautiful pop of colour to your floral arrangement.
Credit: Instagram / suneoosthuizen7
Food:
Packed with vitamin C and other nutrients, spekboom leaves are juicy and full of moisture. They leave an acidic taste of lemon on the tongue, making spekboom an excellent addition to fresh salads or even in the wedding cake itself. Spekboom also helps to fight dehydration, making this magical plant perfect for hot summer weddings.
Credit: Stork.co.za
Decor:
Tiny clippings of spekboom are amazingly fresh additions to wedding decor. Use them as table decor on plates or in planters, in floral centrepieces and in hanging floral arrangements.
Credit: nikimphotography.com
Wedding favours:
Give your guests the gift of spekboom for a memorable wedding favour that will bloom for decades. One small clipping can grow into a magnificent spekboom bush when planted. The plant can live up to 200 years, meaning this gift is truly one for the ages.
Castles are not only for royalty. Complete your fairytale wedding by getting married in a real life castle! Across the world, there are many unique and stunning castles that make the perfect backdrop for your ‘I dos’. Here are a few of our favourites:
The Lichtenstein Castle – Cape Town
Situated on the hills of Karbonkelberg Mountain overlooking Hout Bay, the Lichtenstein Castle is a gothic dream come to life. Built to replicate the Gothic Schloss Lichtenstein Castle in southern Germany, this magnificent castle comes complete with statues of dragons and gargoyles, as well as a magnificent waterfall.
Inside, there is a ballroom with black and white checkered flooring, hand-blown glass chandeliers, and stable doors opening out to rolling green lawns. There are also 4 bedrooms and a honeymoon suite that you can use as your own private villa for the evening. The venue fits 150 guests seated or 250 cocktail.
Neuschwanstein Castle – southwest Bavaria, Germany
Neuschwanstein Castle, located on the Bavarian Alps, is one of the most visited castles in the world, and it’s clear to see why. Built on a rugged hill above the village of Hohenschwangau, this magnificent castle is inspired by Romanesque Revival. The castle was commissioned by King Ludwig II of Bavaria in 1869, and upon his death was opened to the public in 1886. Cinderella’s castle was modelled after Neuschwanstein, making this venue quite literally from a fairytale.
While you cannot get married inside the castle, couples are permitted to hold their ceremony on the grassy area in front of it, or in the chapel of Hohenschwangau Castle that has a view of Neuschwanstein.
One of the most coveted wedding venues in the world, Oheka Castle is a luxurious French-inspired location that has been hosting weddings since 1919. Once the home of investment financier and philanthropist Otto Hermann Kahn and his family, Oheka was built between 1914 and 1919 and is the second largest private home in the United States. The castle is made up of 127 rooms and over 109,000 square feet (10,100 m2).
Oheka Castle has inspired more than brides. F.Scott Fitzgerald was partially inspired by the mansion when describing Jay Gatsby’s stately home in The Great Gatsby. The castle also featured in Taylor Swift’s Blank Space music video.
New Zealand’s Larnach Castle is situated on the picturesque Otago Peninsula and was built in 1871 by merchant baron and politician William Larnach for his first wife Eliza. It was purchased by the Barkey family in 1967, who still privately own it today, and was restored to feature original New Zealand period furniture and antiques.
Your nuptials can take place at a number of places on the Castle grounds, including the Rock Garden on the Ballroom Lawn, the Reflecting Pond with Dunedin City framed in the background, the Alice lawn or under the beautiful 1930s Cupola. For your reception, step inside the ballroom that features period architecture, glorious furnishings, magnificent chandeliers, baronial open fires and a polished sprung dance floor. The ballroom can accommodate up to 180 people.
Nestled in the Cotswold Hills, Sudeley Castle’s buildings, ruins and award-winning gardens cover a sprawling 1,200 acres of grounds. This Tudor-style castle was once home to Queen Katherine Parr, the last and surviving wife of King Henry VIII, who also died here is buried on the grounds.
The venue’s 15th century church is the perfect ceremony location for traditional couples, but you can also choose from the Castle Library and their various outdoor spaces including the Secret garden, Queens’ garden, and Mulberry lawn to tie the knot. A bespoke marquee on the private Castle Lawn, which boasts grand views of the Castle and overlooks water lilies on the carp pond, is a stunning place to hold your ceremony.
Built in 1854 by the La Rochefoucauld family, one of the most eminent families of France, Château de Challain-la-Potherie is a magnificent mansion honouring net-gothic romanticism. It stretches 7,600 square meters, has 4 towers, 12 turrets and 26 spiral staircases that complete the fairytale feel.
Chateau Challain offers a full-service chateau wedding packages for 120+ guests that includes attentive staff and exclusive use of 23 decadently decorated suites, as well as their 72 acres of gardens, forest, and lake. You can say ‘I do’ in the spacious 18th century church opposite the chateau, under the gazebo by the lake, outside the beautiful Memorial Tower or even in their small on-site chapel.
Castell De Santa Florentina, or St. Florentina’s Castle, is a cultural heritage site that has been existence since the 11th century. The castle features a stunningly serene courtyard and interiors Game of Thrones fans might recognise as Horn Hill, the estate of House Tarly in the popular shows sixth season.
Wedding ceremonies can be held on the patio, pictured below, before guests move on to the magnificent Throne Hall that was designed to receive the King of Spain Alfonso XIII with his court, and can host a banquet of 200 people. You’ll definitely feel like royalty at this castle.
Hluboká Castle is considered one of the most beautiful castles in the Czech Republic and was once home to Prince Jan Adolf II. Schwarzenberg. The castle was first built in the 13th century in the Gothic style, but has since been renovated many times, revealing a Baroque style during the 18th century and then being reconstructed to emulate the romantic style of England’s Windsor Castle.
Wedding ceremonies can be held on the hill in front of the castle, in the Ceremonial hall in the former orangery, by the pond in the park or in the interior of large dining room.
If the wedding invitation asks for formal attire, know that this will be an elegant affair and you should dress accordingly. This doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to wear a tuxedo or something to that effect, however, you do have that option to if you would like.
Men
A suit is mandatory with formal attire. Stick to a dark suit with a white shirt and tie. Pair this with dressy leather shoes and you are good to go. A tuxedo would not be inappropriate if you would like to wear one.
If you are planning on wearing a dress, it should be floor length. An evening pant suit or smart separates is also appropriate. Stick to neutral or dark tones. Heels would be the best shoe choice with this type of attire.
You know what’s worse than being dumped? Being broken up with a week before you’re supposed to get married. This unlucky bride-to-be, however, turned her misfortune into a symbolic moment by marrying herself instead.
Sandra Blanco, 32, from London, was left heartbroken when her fiancé broke off their engagement a week before Christmas.
“He said he didn’t want to be with me – that was it. Apparently, he had been feeling like this even before he proposed; I was confused, devastated and in shock,” she explained in an Instagram post.
Blanco had already begun planning their wedding, as they had settled on eloping to Las Vegas. Unfortunately, she was unable to receive refunds on anything she had booked. Rather than losing her money, Blanco decided to go forward with the wedding. Except this time, she would be marrying herself.
“I didn’t cancel the chapel or the ceremony,” she explained. “I didn’t want to because I had something very special in mind; I decided I was going to marry myself. I know – sounds crazy, right? But it wasn’t.”
“It was beautiful, emotional and moving; it was a ceremony where I committed to be good to and take care of myself.”
On her wedding day, she headed out to the Little Chapel in Las Vegas, where she made a promise to herself that love would come from within. Photographer Natalie J captured the day beautifully, and male model Iain Spivey acted as the groom-to-be in the post-wedding photoshoot.
“I’m a big fan of ‘cheesy’ and I wanted to make fun of such a situation, so I went to The Little Vegas Chapel,” she explained. “As I walked down the aisle by myself, the officiator, dressed as Elvis Presley, of course, spoke the kindest of words.”
The officiator’s words truly drove home Sandra’s journey.
‘Today you planned to come here with your boyfriend, unfortunately it didn’t work out and yet you still have the courage to come here now to make a promise to yourself. It is time to fully live your life, your wild and precious life,” said the officiator. “It is time to untie the stories, distractions and illustrations that keep you small and lean into the life that is waiting for you. Time to honour your innermost values, time to be gentle with your innocent heart, time to stand firmly by what you know to be true and make a bold, lifelong commitment to love.”
With this wedding, Blanco hopes to inspire others in similar positions and remind them that their pain is only temporary.
“It isn’t your end; this is your beginning and life as you know it now will open new doors and opportunities for you,” she said. “You will learn better and you will choose better; opportunities that will enable you to meet someone else who loves you more than you might ever love yourself. I promise you and you deserve it.”
St. Florentina’s Castle – Barcelona, Spain
