September 2013
edding
Layout: Yvonne Ndlovu & Tamryn Branch Marketing: Antonnet Henn, Jacques Smuts & Thinus van Deventer • Editorial: Retha Nel & Tshego Ngobeni Photograph: www.mummyslittledreams.com
A Bulletin Publication
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September 2013
It’s in the little (and big) details Compiled by Retha Nel
Sources: http://wedding.theknot.com/honeymoons/honeymoon-planning/articles/master-honeymoon-packing-checklist.aspx?MsdVisit=1, http://tlc.howstuffworks.com/weddings/pack-for-honeymoon.htm
Small details can make a big difference on your wedding day. Conversely simple but big details can create an amazing effect. Here are some ideas for altars and isle decorations.
Rose-Covered Aisle Carpet the aisle with rose petals in different shades. Half-fill large hurricane vases with water and add floating candles for a romantic atmosphere.
Garland Altar Create a flowing canopy altar with flower garlands. This simple but elegant altar needs no extra decoration.
Hanging lanterns Lanterns are the perfect complement to evening weddings. Hang them on trees to lead the way or overhead to lend a soft glow to proceedings.
Signs for the Altar Have giant signs spell out love, faith or your names. For instance: make a sign that spells out LOVE, and which if flipped reads XOXO, when the groom kisses the bride. Ceremony Arch Bring nature inside with a canopy arch. In the picture urns were filled with arching Bradford pear branches. Spray paint a few leaves gold or silver to create a fantasy atmosphere. Small touches like a knot of your favourite dainty flowers secured with a ribbon or lace create a stunning effect. Monogrammed entry Doors can have a special significance and form part of the decor. Decorate the entrance to the ceremony with your initials cut out in wood. Match the ties and paint with your wedding colours. Pew Bouquets Church benches or chairs can be decorated with a crepe-paper bouquet. Pair bigger blooms with small delicate flowers and add a few beads.
Paper Pew Wreath Use tissue paper to create a gorgeous white wreath to hang on each pew. Add some silver bead for fairytale glamour. Festive Garlands Use the guests’ favourites as decorations. String paper bags filled with light goodies like seeds, marshmallow sweets or photos overhead to create a festive atmosphere. At the end of the evening each guest can choose one and take it home. Topiary Banner String a banner with the couple’s names between two miniature topiary trees for an elegant table decoration. Alternatively use it at the entrance to the reception area to point guests in the right direction.
Autumn Wreath Make use of an abundance of leaves for an autumn wedding. Create wreathes of dried leaves and use them as isle decorations or to mark the rows reserved for family.
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September 2013
What to pack for your honeymoon Compiled by Retha Nel
Sources: http://wedding.theknot.com/honeymoons/honeymoon-planning/articles/master-honeymoon-packing-checklist.aspx?MsdVisit=1, http://tlc.howstuffworks.com/weddings/pack-for-honeymoon.htm
You’ve got the tickets, saved up your spending money and googled everything about your destinations. Now you need to pack. But what do you take and what do you leave? Here is a list of items to ensure you’re not dragging a massive bag with or that you have to buy half the essentials for twice the price elsewhere. Essentials: • Plane ticket or proof of purchase • Passport/visas/driver’s license
• Credit cards (if you really need them) • Hotel reservation confirmations • Traveller’s cheques. • Two sets of copies of all of the above, as well as one of your medical aid/travel insurance and prescriptions. • Phone numbers for your doctor, house/pet sitter and card companies (in case you lose your cards or they’re stolen) • Prescription medicine (in the original packaging) • Contraception • Travel locks and luggage tags
• Camera Pack in: • Insect repellent • Sunscreen • Sunglasses • Aloe vera • Basic first aid kit • Female sanitary neces-
sities • Paperback books (you can leave them at the hotel or a bookstore when you’ve read them) • A deck of cards • A tote bag for the beach/pool
• Guidebook • Electric plug converter/ adapter Toiletries (buy travelsize): • Toothpaste and – brushes • Deodorant
• Cosmetics and remover • Cottons balls and swabs • Comb brush • Nail file/clippers • Shaving cream • Razors • Hair accessories
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September 2013
gorgeous wedding hairstyles Compiled by Retha Nel
Source: http://www.elle.com/beauty/hair/best-wedding-hairstyles-2013, http://www.glamourmagazine.co.uk/beauty/hair-trends/2012/02/wedding-hairstyles-2012
You’ve got the venue, the dress, the accessories and now you have to decide on your hair. Take inspiration from these beautiful wedding hairstyles for you, your bridesmaids or even for a special guest. Tiara chignon Feel like a princess try a simple, elegant knot or go for an elegant braid twisted into a chignon in the nape of the neck. A plain hairdo will focus the attention on your beautiful tiara and not detract from your make-up.
Fresh flowers Create a fairytale image with loose wavy hair crowned by a garland of fresh flowers. This look can be recreated with both long and short hair.
Short and classy You don’t have to grow your hair or go through the pain of hair extensions to look gorgeous on your wedding day. A Chinese bob cut framed by a broad, sparkly hairband can be just as classy as flowing locks.
Braid updo Perfect for black tie parties and formal weddings. This updo uses a high ponytail as base. Braid the ponytail and coil it around into a bun.
Simple updo This simple updo is created by rolling up the hair from the outside and securing it with pins on the inside.
Twist it A twist on the classic bun, instead of braiding the hair, twist and intertwine the partings to create this beautiful tangle.
Classic braid There is a reason the braid has remained a firm favourite with brides. A loose braid intertwined with ribbons or flowers is more whimsical, while a tight braid radiates elegance and class. Hair ornament Like the tiara hairdo, an elaborate hair ornament features more strongly with a simple hairdo. A sideswept fringe and a high bun is transformed in an elegant do with snowflake clips. Simple waves Less is more with this look – simple curls brushed to one side. This can make the bride’s neck look longer and slimmer. Beehive glam Both classic and modern, this beehive style is simple enough to add hair accessories but chic enough to keep plain.
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September 2013
Die begroting – wat moet ek als betaal? Compiled by Retha Nel Bron: Huisgenoot Trou 2013
D i e troubegroting is seker die grootste knelpunt van enige troue en verg deeglike beplanning en oorweging. Om seker te maak dat jy nie vergeet om die koek of tafeldoeke te bestel nie, is hier ‘n lys van troubenodighede om af te merk.
Seremonie:
Huur van lokaal Trou-amptenaar/predikant
Onthaal:
Spyseniering Breekgoed en messegoed Glasware Dekor (tafeldoeke, plekmatjies, stoeloortreksels,ens) Drinkgoed (water, koeldrank, sjampanje, alkohol) Kroegdiens Koek Musiek
Trou-uitrustings: Trourok Skoene
Bykomstighede Uitrustings vir strooimeisies/strooijonkers Ringe Hare en grimering Bruidegom se uitrusting
Drukwerk:
Fotografie:
Vervoer:
Fotograaf se tarief Videograaf se tarief
Blomme:
Kerk Onthaallokaal Tafelrangskikkings Bruid se ruiker Ruikers vir strooimeisies
Save-the-date-kaartjies Uitnodigings Programme Pleknaam-kaartjies Bedankingskaartjies Vir troupaar Gevolg Ouers
Geskenke en allerlei: Gastegeskenkies Geskenke vir strooimeisies Gasteboek en -pen
die
Wenke: Ondersteun liefdadigheidswinkels. Die geld gaan aan verskeie projekte en daar is baie winskopies te vind. Kies ‘n onthaalruimte met natuurlike dekorelemente soos grasperke, mooi boompies, dammetjies of fonteine. Dit is meestal goedkoper om self van jou benodighede te maak, soos die kaartjies, geskenkies vir die gaste en van die dekorelemente. As jy nie self ‘n slag met sulke dinge het nie, span ‘n familielid of vriend in (met behulp van ‘n blok duur sjokolade of ‘n bottel wyn).
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September 2013
How to write the invites Compiled by Retha Nel
http://www.marthastewartweddings.com/228634/wedding-invitation-wording/@center/272440/wedding-etiquette-adviser#342711
Wedding invitations come in all shapes and sizes these days — from elaborate cards to simple but colourful emails. The message it contains is, however, the most important part of the invite. The bride’s parents are traditionally the hosts, thus their names are usually in the first line of the card, followed by the grooms names eg Martin & Marie Smith and André and Alice le Roux cordially invite you to the wedding of Larize and Shaun.
this is appropriate for formal weddings and can make for an impressive card.
Divorced parents List their names on separate lines, with mom’s name first. If she remarried use her married name. Tradition dictates that stepparents are omitted from the invite, but add them if you like.
Request line Many couples hold the wedding and reception separately and invite different people. Make sure your invites reflect where the wedding and reception is being held. If it is held at a church use ‘request the honour of your presence’, informal ceremony: ‘would be delighted by your presence at the marriage of their children, informal reception only: ‘invite you to join them at the wedding reception of’.
Parent passed away You don’t have to add a parent who has passed away, but many feel that this is a way for their parent to be part of the proceedings. Just make sure that the wording reflects that the parent has passed away.
Date and time Traditionally the time and date (numbers) are spelled out but these days only numerals are used (for easier reading).
Middle names and titles You don’t have to add titles and middle names, but
Where There is no need to put in the exact address of wellknown locations, but if you’re expecting guests unfamiliar with the area please do. Add a map of the area as an insert or paste it on the back of the invite to make sure guests don’t get lost.
Modern As most couples host their own wedding, the cards can also reflect this eg Together with their families, Miss Annabelle Marais and Mr Reynard van Wyk....
RSVP The RSVP line traditionally goes in the lower
left corner. If you plan on mailing guests their invite, then add a reply card, envelope and stamp. The quicker way is to give an email address or phone number to RSVP to. Special details Let your guests know if the reception doesn’t include a full meal, but finger foods instead. Remember to specify the type of dress – black tie, casual or theme.
Crazy Wedding Facts • The term “best man” dates back to the times when Scotsmen kidnapped their future brides. The friend of the groom who had excelled at the abduction was acclaimed to be the best man. • The largest wedding attendance was a Jewish wedding in Jerusalem in 1993 where 30,000 people attended. • It was the accepted practice in Babylon 4,000 years ago that for a month after the wedding, the bride’s father would supply his sonin-law with all the mead he could drink. Mead is a honey beer, and because their calendar was lunar based, this period was called the “honey month” or what we know today as the honeymoon.” • Life in the 1500’s: Most people got married in June because they took their yearly bath in May and were still smelling pretty good by June. However, they were starting to smell, so brides carried a bouquet of flowers to hide the body odor. • The wedding shower originated with a Dutch maiden who fell in love with an impoverished miller. Her friends “showered” her and her groom with many gifts so the couple could do without her dowry.
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September 2013
Diamonds are a girl’s best friend Most girls dream of a brilliant, sparkly diamond ring when they think of weddings. Besides deciding on the ring’s shape, there is a surprising amount of cuts that diamonds come in. When choosing a ring, carefully consider which will fit your beloved best. A single, simple diamond in a beautiful cut can easily outclass any gaudy, over-the-top creation. Compiled by Retha Nel
Jackie: 072 347 3408 • Tel/Fax: 015 307 5688 jackie@poppyshiring.co.za • 11 Aqua Avenue, Aquapark
Source: http://www.exceldiamonds.com/education/diamonds/diamond-shape.php
Round 1. Round brilliant cut This cut in the most traditional and popular of the cuts. Around 80% of diamonds used in jewellery are sold in this cut. It has also been found to be the most beautiful and brilliant of all shapes because of the 58 facets it has. This cut is mostly set in solitaire ring settings to show off their shine. 2. Princess cut The princess cut is the second most popular cut. Although beautiful, this
Princess
Marquise
cut is not as brilliant because of its four corners which allow too much light to leak out. 3. Marquise cut This is a favourite of royalty for its elegant cut. Because of the long shape, the bride’s fingers will also appear longer. Due to its large surface area it will appear larger than what it weighs in carats. For this reason you can buy a smaller marquise diamond ring that you would in a different dia-
Oval
mond shape because it looks larger. A proper cut will be very sparkly, but the cut could exhibit a bow-tie effect (in the centre, where it is not as brilliant). 4. Oval cut This cut is usually used with two smaller diamonds on either side of it. It is not regularly used in solitaire rings, but frequently appears in triplediamond settings. An excellent cut has a lot of brilliance and fire.
Table cloths • Glassware • Crockery & Cutlery • Tables Chairs • Chair covers & tie backs • Table runners/overlays Draping • Kitchen teas And any event co-ordination
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September 2013
Fashionable wedding cupcakes The cupcake is one of the most fashionable bites at weddings these days, with many couples using them instead of the traditional wedding cake. Surprise your guests with one of these interesting tiny cakes for dessert or to take home as a favour. Compiled by Retha Nel
Source: //www.marthastewartweddings.com/316412/wedding-cupcakes/@center/272453/wedding-cakes#224190
Cupcake stacks Triple the taste with cupcake stacks. Use different flavours with each level and decorate with fluffy buttercream icing in your wedding colours. Cupcakes in a jar Let guests take their dessert home as a favour. In a glass jar sandwich a vanilla cupcake with a layer of jam and a generous dollop of cream-cheese frosting. Secure a wooden spoon with a ribbon tied around the jar. Chocoholic’s treat Treat chocoholic guests with tiny molten chocolate cakes. Stick a fork into the soft chocolate outer and discover the runny, delicious centre. There are many cupcake variations on this dessert. Pick one that fits your budget and taste and jazz it up with ganache or interesting garnish.
Rose bouquets Make miniature bouquets of your cupcakes by adding meringue or sugarpaste roses to the top of a plain cupcake. Let the colours and flavours match your wedding colours or flowers and use them as centrepieces. Choc-mocha cupcakes Give your guests an energy boost for late night dancing by adding a shot of mocha to your cupcakes. Coffee-chocolate cakes slathered with chocolate mousse, covered with chocolate glace will satisfy both chocolate and coffee lovers. Meringue and berry cupcakes This delicious confection isn’t actually a cupcake. Meringue pieces were layered with berry compote and whipped cream for a sweet, airy dessert.
Brownie bites Score some brownie points with your guests with this bite-size snack. Bake brownies in cupcake cases and cover with smooth chocolate ganache. These can be decorated with the couple’s initials or chocolate buttons. Pavlova cupcakes Serve individual pavlovas by baking them in miniature cupcake cases. This pavlova is a puffy meringue with a crispy outer shell covering a soft, melty inside. Top this with yogurt cream and sugared fruit as garnish. Mini cheesecakes Recreate a coffee shop favourite by baking them in small cupcake cases. These treats were decorated with raspberry purée hearts. Vanilla cupcakes These cupcakes are a blank slate and can be decorated to match the decor. Pipe swirls of plain frosting and add sugared or fresh flowers or round them off with the couple’s initials in sugarpaste.
Wedding attire: fabulous or flop? The wedding dress is the key element of any wedding and a lot of brides plan their themes around that perfect dress. This is after all the outfit you’ll be immortalised in on your wedding photo. When choosing your outfits for your big day there are several factors that will influence your decision: Compiled by Retha Nel
Source: http://www.marthastewartweddings.com/228953/best-dressed-bride-andgroom/@center/272440/wedding-etiquette-adviser
Day vs night Consider when the wedding will take place. Daytime weddings tend to be shorter and the temperature warmer, while night-time weddings tend to last well into the next morning and get quite chilly. Match the style Make sure that your style of dress fits the occasion. If you’re planning a formal reception in a ballroom then a ballgown-style dress would be best and your groom would look gorgeous in a matching black-tie tuxedo. For an outdoor or more casual wedding, why not try wearing a
white sundress and a smart-casual suit for the couple? Formal A long, white dress is a wedding classic for a reason. They are perfect for both formal and informal. Strapless dresses are considered formal, but are traditionally more appropriate for evening weddings. The groom can use a formal occasion to wear a tuxedo or morning suit with a cutaway jacket, waistcoat and ascot. This is strictly appropriate for evening functions. Semi-formal The sheath dress is an excellent
dress for a daytime wedding. Pair with fun or funky accessories like wedges. Cocktail dresses (above/ below knee) are also a nice option. Tradition dictates that daytime brides should stay away from strapless dresses. Informal With an informal wedding the options are limitless, just be sure to fit in with the style of the wedding. A simple, light dress in cotton or similar is very appropriate. The groom would be comfortable in a cotton or linen suit in plain colours with a colourful tie.
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September 2013
DIY table runners Table runners are a perfect way to round off your table surfaces and can provide a beautiful base for centre pieces and table settings. Even unusual materials can create a beautiful effect. Compiled by Retha Nel
Source: http://www.marthastewartweddings.com/340838/diy-table-runners/@center/272429/diy-weddings
Crepe paper Runner
Crepe paper is available in many different colours and has a lovely texture. Use it to add a splash of colour to your tables.
Peace Bird Travel Agency Viyda 083 880 3929
Gift wrap Runner
Search through your local Cardies or craft shop for beautiful wrapping paper. The black-and-white houndstooth wrapping paper pictured adds a touch of elegance to an evening reception.
Straw mat runner
Straw mats are often used as table mats, why not use a longer, thinner mat as a runner? This is perfect for outdoor, tropical or rustic themes.
Vinyl Runner
As a spill-proof alternative use a swatch of vinyl as a runner. Besides not disintegrating if spilled on, it also adds a different texture to the decor.
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September 2013
Suikerkuns: tafelrangskikkings Dit is al lankal nie meer net blomme wat as tafelrangskikkings by troues gebruik word nie — kerse, vere en selfs feëliggies word deesdae ingespan. Die nuutste gier is egter ‘n eetbare meesterstuk van suiker en sjokolade. En dit is nou in Tzaneen beskikbaar by Cre8tive Cakes. Hierdie proses is uiters sensitief en verg baie sorg en geduld. Die suiker word geoes van wit beet, en is nie tradisionele rietsuiker nie. Dit word gesmelt teen 160˚C, deur ‘n skokproses geneem (waarby die suiker stabiliseer), dan is dit gereed vir gebruik. Dis uiters warm en moet met baie sorg gehanteer word. Enige vorm of lengte kan gemaak word.
Suikerballe word ook geblaas met ‘n “sugar blower” en kan gebruik word in die meesterstukke. Sjokoladerose word gemaak deur die sjokolade te smelt en teen 37˚C in sekere vorms en stolmetodes te gebruik. Elke roos word met baie sorg gemaak Die basis van die meesterstukke is ook van suiker. Enige kleur kan gemeng word, op enige koek gemonteer word en is pragtig en lekker om te eet. Dit is besonders mooi op troukoeke en minitroukoekies. “So belangrik as wat die rok is, net so belangrik is die troukoek,” meen me Melani Lamprecht, die meesterbrein agter Cre8tive Cakes. Die suiker kan ook deur ‘n ander proses in koraalvormige-kristalle omgeskep word. Die kokende suikermengsel kan ook oor ys gegiet word, om pragtige koraalvorms te maak. Cre8tive Cakes maak verder ook ontwerperstroukoeke — as die bruid dit kan droom kan húlle dit maak. Koekgeure soos vanielje, sjokolade, maroela, karamel, ‘fudge’, sjampanje, amandel en wortelkoek is beskikbaar. Vir meer inligting oor hierdie interessante skeppings, besoek www.creativeparties. co.za.
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September 2013
The Budget: Avoiding pitfalls Before you even get to the planning stage of a wedding there is already a looming problem. Yup, that’s right — the Budget. Here are a few do’s and don’ts to help you avoid arguments, tears and ultimately family feuds. Compiled by Retha Nel
Alternative catering The biggest part of a wedding reception is the food. Make it memorable by trying these interesting alternatives to traditional catering.
Source: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/martha-stewart-weddings/wedding-budget_b_2993787.html
Compiled by Retha Nel
Don’t assume It’s not compulsory for your parents to pay for the whole wedding, so don’t assume they will. Because so many couple have lived together before they get married, they tend to pay for the ceremony and reception out of their own pockets.
Talk about it When figuring out your budget talk about who is contributing and how much. Be sure that everyone is happy about the amount they’re giving before paying any deposits.
Going big isn’t necessary If you can’t afford a big reception with the wedding ceremony, rather plan a small gathering of good friends and close family. That way you can save for a larger reception at a later stage.
Communication is key Keep everyone who is contributing money in the loop during the planning stages. This will ensure that they know what they pay for and you don’t spend more than you have.
Ask questions
When booking the various elements of the wedding ask about the included services and hidden costs. That way you’ll be sure that you can afford it.
Keep your bridal party in mind Wedding costs can quickly get out of control, so keep in mind how your decisions will affect contributors. Make sure that everyone knows what they have to buy or pay and try not to place too big a burden on them. You’re going to be surrounded by friends and family on your wedding day and you’ll want everyone to have fun.
Keep track of your finances
Source: http://www.marthastewartweddings.com
• Donuts
Pile a variety of donuts on a tiered cake stand as part of the dessert table.
• Mini burgers
You’ll be sure to satisfy most appetites with a hamburger. Serve platters of mini beef and chicken hamburgers with several different dipping sauces as finger food before the reception.
• Popcorn
Make sure you know which deposits or bills have been paid, by whom and how. This will avoid bills going unpaid and contributors going over budget.
As an interesting dessert or finger food serve caramel or savoury popcorn in cones.
Never ask guests for money
Cool down your guests in summer with a bowl of gourmet ice cream or sorbet. Don’t be afraid to serve interesting flavours.
It is extremely rude to ask your guests for money instead of gifts. You should rather register at shops for gift cards or make arrangements at your local travel agents if guests would prefer to contribute to your honeymoon.
We specialise in custom made engagement and wedding rings We also source and supply diamonds & other precious gems.
Café Pavilion | Sterkloop, Church Street - 015 291 3143 | 076 958 1845
• Ice cream / Sorbet
• Regional cuisine
If the couple comes from different cultures build the theme
around one of them. Using traditional dishes will put family members at ease and be an adventure for friends.
• Chip ’n dip
Give hungry guests cones filled with fresh hot chips and a choice of dips as a late night snack.
• Sushi bar
Treat friends and family a treat by hiring a professional sushi chef to make sushi on demand. Keep the menu small and simple to avoid a long wait for hungry guests.
• Pies
Serve a platter of sweet and savoury pies as hors d’oeuvres or give guests mini-tarts for dessert.
•Soup shooters
A new twist on a traditional starter. Serve your guests a variety of soups in shot glasses.
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September 2013
Something to take home There are many ways to remind guests of your wedding day. Some people give engraved glasses or a tote bag and others prefer a sweeter alternative. Here are some ideas for beautiful favours your guests might just save for a rainy day. Compiled by Retha Nel
Source: http://www.marthastewartweddings.com/228556/50-great-wedding-favors/@center/316393/wedding-favors#140872
Candy Boxes
For a fantasy or outdoor theme give guests a little treat packaged in these cute boxes with a bird on top.
Mix and Match
Give each guest a set of coasters and jazz up the flat boxes by swopping different coloured lids and bottoms. Glue on printed labels with the couple’s names and make sure the lids are secured with black elastic cords.
Flower boxes
Make the favours your table decorations by using plain boxes with faux flower arrangements glued to the top. Arrange these around a matching larger box which can double as storage space for napkins or confetti. The small boxes
Bird boxes
can be filled with a petit fours or two or a piece of wedding cake.
Send your guests home with something sweet. Fill small brightly coloured boxes with chocolates or sweets and wrap in cellophane. Tie a thank you note to each of the boxes with a piece of wool, matching ribbon or piece of lace.
Elegant Cookie Cubes
Stack iced cookies in wooden or plastic cubes with your monogram on all sides. Wrap in plastic and tie securely with a ribbon.
MOST ELEGANT VENUE IN POLOK WANE With stunning gardens and a large variety of packages and menu’s to cater for ever y need
Love Poetry
Print out your favourite poem in newsprint to wrap boxed favours in. Tie a message spelled in beads for a romantic love letter gift.
Cherry blossom boxes
But Menthos or mint sweets in petal favour boxes and arrange five of them in a circle for a beautiful cherry blossom table decoration.
Jam jar Favours
Get an aunt or grandmother to make seasonal jam. Send each guest home with their own small jar of deliciousness.
Herb Favours
Enviromentally conscious? Give each of your guests a small pot with a herb plant like basil, parsley or oregano. Print out examples of dishes each herb can be used in and wrap it around the pot.
BRIDAL OPE Regional Favours
If you’re expecting guests from far away consider using regional specialties as wedding favours. In the Tzaneen area there are numerous options — oranges, macadamias, honey, dried fruit or Coach House nougat. Put a few in a bag, add personalizes labels or stickers with a thank you message.
Personalized Candy Favours
Fill stackable containers with different jelly sweets or jelly beans.
Get in touch with our dedicated Wedding Coordinators for great wedding packages On Meropa.banqueting@za.suninternational.com
Fan programs and confetti
If you get married in the summer, consider printing your programs on paddle fans to help keep guests cool. Add a bag of confetti or dried herbs for the confetti toss.
Bird’s Nest Favours
Charm guests with a small faux bird’s nest filled with tiny chocolate eggs or sugar-coated almonds.
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September 2013
The bridal bouquet:
fans, feathers and flowers Compiled by Retha Nel
Source: http://offbeatbride.com/2009/03/wedding-bouquets, http://www.marthastewartweddings.com/269161/unique-wedding-bouquets/@center/272502/bouquets
Fans
Add some character to your outfit by using a vintage fan instead of flowers. This is also a great way to keep cool (and your make-up from melting) in summer.
Button
Buttons aren’t just used to keep clothes fastened anymore. Use interesting vintage buttons to create a visual masterpiece.
Dried flower bouquet
Another option that will not wilt. Use a variety of dried flowers combined with potpourri for a fragrant, vintage bouquet.
Feather
Girls queue for this part of the evening — the bouquet toss. For some this is one of the highlights of the evening, for others the bouquet is an integral part of their outfit. Make your bouquet and outfit memorable with these interesting bridal bouquet ideas.
Feathers add a bit of swag to your outfit. Create a feather arrangement to match a fringe on your dress or a beautiful hair ornament.
Felt flower
Make sure your bouquet lasts longer than the night by creating a bouquet of felt flowers. This can also add a pop of colour to a plain dress
Lantern
Holding a lantern instead of a bouquet is a great way of bringing some magic into a night wedding. Lanterns can range from small Candy Bead bouquet Anemone bouquet Leaf bouquet tealight-candle ones to large Have your bouquet and eat it! Add some sparkle to a plain Use simple flowers in an unu- Use a variety of big leaves tied hurricane lanterns. Choose one Create a yummy confectionary wedding dress with an arching sual colour like this beautiful ar- with a length of raffia for a fresh, that fits with your outfit and that bouquet with a variety of sweets bead bouquet. beach-like bouquet. rangement of anemones. you can carry easily. in your wedding colours.
and Function Venue
Viyda 083 770 7252
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September 2013
The concept of Lobola Lobola is a cultural and traditional practice of the Nguni people, where cattle or money is granted to the bride’s family by the groom and his extended family in exchange for the bride. To some, lobola is a money-making scheme, to others it’s a token of appreciation to the parents of their future bride. Compiled by Tshegofatso Ngobeni
Tshegofatso Ngobeni writes from her own personal views, observations and experience and do not intend to offend any of my readers.
In the olden days, the groom’s family would provide cattle to the bride’s family to thank them for raising their daughter. Lobola in the past, almost like today was used as a platform for the groom to show his future in-laws that he is capable of taking care of their daughter. Since women were not economically equivalent to their male counterparts, they were expected to stay at home, cook, clean, do laundry, raise children and still take care of their husbands. Thank God for gender equality, women can now have the best of both worlds. They can still wear their stilettos and climb the corporate ladder by day and wear an apron and be moms and wives by night. This has changed the way in which lobola is being charged as many women are becoming more educated and empowered. Since there is no lobola regulation board, there is no agreement as to say how much is too much. It merely depends on the family of the bride to estimate their daughter’s worth. This then determines the bridal price.
A few aspects are considered when the bride price is determined, these are: 1. The level of education: how many degrees, certificates does the potential bride hold? 2. How many children does she have? This factor is
12 wedding superstitions and traditions Many brides strictly adhere to wedding traditions and superstitions to ensure their married life starts on the right note. If you avoid walking under a ladder, hate black cats or don’t step on cracks, this advice is for you. Compiled by Retha Nel
http://www.marthastewartweddings.com/345519/common-wedding-traditions-andsuperstitions/@center/272419/youre-engaged
also important as it decreases the bride’s worth, especially if the children are not her future husband’s biological kid(s). However, the groom is also charged lobola for his bride’s offspring(s), and sometimes the child then takes his/her stepfather’s surname. Women without children are viewed as pure in a sense that they do not have children out of wedlock. This creates an impression that this childless bride should be worth more. 3. Age: the older you are, the cheaper the bride price becomes. If your biological clock is up and you are in your late 20’s,30’s,40’s and God forbid 50’s and are without child, you become cheaper. If you do have children and happen to get married again, there is an exception. Children mean a lot to the in-laws, they expect grandchildren from their bride. 4. Position: If you are a woman of stature who has “made it” career wise, you are worth more than someone who does not have a career. You are capable ofbringing more money into your marriage. You won’t be a financial burden to your future husband. 5. Assets: If you own property, fancy cars or a business, you are worth more than a bride who doesn’t own any of these assets. 6. If the bride is from a royal family: her bride price increases. In all essence, lobola should boil down to love and two families coming together to celebrate the new love of their children.
1. Something Old, New, Borrowed, and Blue This is a well-known rhyme repeated when the bride is deciding on her outfit. Something old represents the bride’s past, the new happy future. Something borrowed should be from someone who is happily married in the hope that her good fortune rubs off on the bride. Blue is to symbolise fidelity and love. 2. The veil The custom of wearing a veil at the wedding ceremony originated in Rome. The bride would wear a veil when walking down the aisle as a disguise so that evil spirits who were jealous of her happiness would not recognise her. 3. Not seeing each other before the wedding This superstition comes from the time of arranged marriages. People believed that if the couple saw each other they would have time to change their minds before the wedding. However, these days many couples prefer to take their wedding photos before the ceremony. 4. Rain on your wedding day This occurrence symbolises fertility and cleansing in some cultures. 5. Knives as a wedding gift Knives signify a broken relationship and are therefore, according to folklore, bad luck. Traditionally gift givers are given a few cent for their knives, as the gift is then considered a purchase. 6. Carrying your bride over the threshold In medieval Europe many believed that the bride was extra vulnerable to evil spirits through the
soles of her feet. The groom therefore carried the bride into their new home to avoid bringing in any evil spirits. 7. A spider on your dress Finding a spider on your wedding dress is considered to be a good omen according to English lore. 8. Sugar cube Greeks believe that placing a sugar cube on the bride will sweeten the marriage. A twist on this could be to use sugar cubes as decoration for food and drinks. 9. Crossing a monk or nun’s path It is considered extremely bad luck to see a nun or monk on the way to your wedding. It is said that the bride will be cursed with a barren life dependent on charity. 10. Chime bells The Irish chime bells at weddings to keep evil spirits away and ensure the couple has a harmonious family life. Some brides include small bells in their bouquets to remind them of their sacred wedding vows and bells are a common wedding gift. 11. Breaking glass At Italian weddings the newlyweds smash a vase or glass at their wedding. The amount of pieces the glassware breaks into is said to symbolise the amount of years they’ll be happily married. 12. Crying on your wedding day The bride will enjoy good fortune if she cries on her wedding day. Her tears symbolise that she had shed all her tears and will not cry during her marriage. Make sure you’re wearing waterproof mascara to avoid nasty streaks.
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September 2013
Explore SA for your honeymoon
When all the planning, eating and dancing is over on the wedding day, the newlyweds get to slip away for their honeymoon. But why travel abroad if there are so many great destinations in South Africa? Here is a list of nine interesting honeymoon destinations where you and your loved one can create memories to last a lifetime. Gauteng: Soweto If you want to spend your honeymoon in a vibrant, lively area, why not visit Soweto. There are a range of hotels and guest houses to choose from and it’s just a stone’s throw away from the metropolitan areas of Johannesburg and Pretoria. Visit the many landmarks like Mandela House and Walter Sisulu Square or the Nelson Mandela National Museum. Catch a soccer game or experience the nightlife by visiting one of the many shebeens and enjoying some Kwaito or Kasi Rap. Western Cape: Cape Town One of the best South African destinations, Cape Town offers a variety of activities to enjoy. Take long walks on the beach, visit historic spots like Robben Island or the Van Riebeeck Castle or do some shopping at the V&A Waterfront. Lounge in luxury at a beach front hotel or eat fish and chips wrapped in newspaper on a sidewalk. Visit one of the many wine cellars within driving distance or go up Table Mountain with a cable car. Mpumalanga: Mbombela Mpumalanga is home to many game reserves, the Kruger National Park, as well as the Blyde River Canyon and many waterfalls like the Mac Mac Falls. Sate your appetite for adventure with white river rafting, canopy tours and quad bike trails. Visit historical spots like Pelgrim’s Rest or the memorial for Jock of the Bushveld. Pamper yourself at one of the exclusive game reserves’ health spa’s or go shopping at one of Mbombela’s many shopping centres.
Limpopo: Kruger National Park The Kruger Park is a wonderful destination for couples who love nature or want a bit of peace and quiet. Stake out a watering hole for a photo safari or go for a night drive. Archaeological sites like Masorini and Thulamela provide information on early life in the area and the Elephant Museum at Letaba explores the wonder of elephants. Relax at one of the various camps, overnight hides or luxury lodges with their gorgeous views, restaurants and interesting gift shops. North West: Magaliesberg Close to the heartbeat of SA, Johannesburg, Magaliesberg offers you beautiful mountain views, bird watching walks and adventure for adrenaline junkies. Go for a trail ride on horseback/quad bike or get your blood pumping with a canopy tour. Take a tour through the oldest gold mine in Gauteng or pan for gold at the Blaawbank Historic Gold Mine. Enjoy some cheese at the local cheese farm or visit the art gallery of Angela Eidelman. Northern Cape: Colesberg Visit one of the many heritage buildings in town, like the Dutch Reformed Church. Enjoy delicious food at one of the many restaurants and pubs on-site at many of the guest houses and B&B’s in town. Guest farms in the district offer accommodation with 4x4 and mountain bike trails, game hunting and bird watching. Eastern Cape: Port Elizabeth PE is situated at the eastern end of the Garden Route and a favourite tourist destination. Go for a swim or sunbathe at one of the many beaches, visit historic attractions and art museums or go shopping at the Boardwalk Waterfront complex. The Addo Elephant Park is within driving distance as well as Algoa Bay which offers scuba diving, windsurfing and kiteboarding. Swim with the dolphins or go for a sunset cruise.
Kwazulu Natal: Durban Durban is packed with tourist attractions – visit uShaka Marine World or see horseracing at the Greyville Racecourse. Exotic and beautiful birds await you at the Umgeni River Bird Park or buy curios at the Markets of Warwick, a large informal street market. Play blackjack or go for a show at the Suncoast Casino & Entertainment World. Free State: Parys The quaint town of Parys gives you a peek of bygone days. Visit the many
historical buildings and heritage sites or taste a beer at one of their three breweries. Close by are SA’s only black raspberry farms and largest wild olive forest. Breë and Water Streets are home to a diverse collection of art galleries, antique and gift shops and turn of the century memorabilia. There are also an abundance of restaurants and coffee shops selling fare like vetkoek, tripe and delicious cakes. Relax at one of the many spa’s while listening to sound of the Vaal River.