Future Bride Kwazulu-Natal 2010

C
contents
2 JEWELLERY
Contents
5 PLANNING GUIDE
9 COORDINATORS
18 INTERNET
19 CEREMONIES
21 STATIONERY
25 GIFTS
26 HEALTH & BEAUTY
40 GROOMS WEAR
Congratulations on tying the knot! This latest edition of the Future Bride will 42 PORTFOLIO OF GOWNS
help you stop stressing and start calmly planning your big day. While you 44 BRIDAL WEAR
don’t need to spend the earth to have a wedding that is truly memorable, 55 TRANSPORT
remember that investing in some things now, such as a good photographer and
gorgeous jewellery, is a wonderful way of bringing treasured mementoes – and 56 VENUE & RECEPTION
reminders of all those happy moments – into your married life. Inside the 79 HIRING & DÉCOR
Future Bride we have the low-down on wedding and engagement rings, health 83 FAVOURS
and beauty, wedding planners, choosing a venue, catering, stationery, florists and
84 FLOWERS
much more, not to mention the best bridal and grooms wear! What’s more,
the service providers featured are all from KwaZulu-Natal, as are the stunning 88 CATERING
brides, stylish grooms and elegant wedding entourages gracing these pages. 92 ENTERTAINMENT
94 PHOTOGRAPHY
Published by: BRABYS BROCHURES
PO Box 1426, Pinetown 3600 • Tel 031 717 4000 • Fax 031 717 4100
114 VIDEOGRAPHY
E-mail: brochures@brabys.co.za • Website: www.futurebride.co.za 117 HONEYMOONS
Editors: Carol Spalding & René Hartslief
Layout and design: CREATIVE SOLUTIONS - Michel Gribben
119 LEGAL ADVICE
Editorial: Louella Morgan-Jarvis
Advertsing: Carol Spalding 031 717 4117
121 FRONT COVER FINALISTS
Front cover photograph by Stuart Dods 123 CLASSIFIEDS
While every care has been taken in the preparation of this publication, no liability can be accepted by the publishers for any 127 CALENDAR
errors or omissions that may occur. This publication is the exclusive property of the publishers and no part of the contents
may be reproduced in any form without the prior written permssion of the publishers. 128 NOTES
1 www.futurebride.co.za
A
jewellery
All That
Glitters
Along with answering that all-important
question, choosing your engagement and
weddings rings should be top of your to-do list.
This is also a good time to start looking for
other types of wedding-day adornment, such as
necklaces, bracelets, earrings or brooches.
A girl’s best friend Diamonds

have long been a symbol of everlasting love
and commitment, and remain a firm favourite,
with around 80 percent of brides still choosing
a diamond engagement ring. Coloured
gemstones may also be used as the centre
stone or as side stones, and include precious CARMEN ROBERTS
gems like sapphires, rubies, emeralds and
Precious choices The value of a

tanzanite, as well as semiprecious stones such
as tourmalines, garnets, amethysts, zircons,
aquamarines, opals or topaz. diamond is determined by the ‘Four Cs’
– colour, clarity, carat and cut:
• The COLOUR of a diamond may range
from colourless to yellow and brown, with
colourless diamonds being the most valuable.
• A diamond’s CLARITY is based on the
number and nature of any inclusions or flaws,
as well as their size and position.
• CARAT refers to a stone’s weight rather
than its size, and the value of two diamonds
of the same carat weight may differ,
according to cut, colour and clarity.
• The CUT refers to the angles and
proportions of the diamond’s facets, and is
often said to be the most important ‘C’. The
cut can compensate for what a gem lacks in
size, colour or clarity, as the more precise
and symmetrical the cut, the more dazzling
the diamond.
The final cut Don’t confuse the

cut with the shape of the stone – ‘cut’ refers
to the diamond’s facets, while ‘shape’ describes
the general look, such as round, oval or
rectangular. While a round brilliant gem with
58 facets has the most sparkle and remains a
classic choice, other shapes such as emerald,
which is rectangular with cropped corners and
long, stepped facets, and the square-shaped
princess, are also in demand. Heart, oval
and pear shapes look like their names, while
2
marquise is an oval with pointed ends. Asscher, • PAVE: Tiny round diamonds are set in small
which has a similar cut to the emerald yet is holes drilled into the surface of the ring
square in shape (making it look octagonal), was
Rock chic Popular ring styles have

very popular in the 1920s and is back in vogue
today. Cushion is a cross between an oval and
a rectangle, and is shaped like a pillow. varied over the years. While Victorian brides
might have preferred the symbolism of a heart-
Set in stone
shaped diamond, 1920s brides opted for Art
Generally, the better Deco designs and geometric shapes, like the
the diamond the simpler the setting should emerald-cut diamond. Today there is growing
be. A large and beautifully cut diamond will demand for vintage styles, such as the cushion
look good in a prong setting, while a less-than- cut, and many brides are choosing rings set in
perfect gem will be given star appeal in a bold platinum because it makes the diamond look
or fancy setting. more brilliant as well as being hardier and
more valuable than gold.
Find the right setting for your gorgeous gem:
• PRONG: Usually consisting of four or six
prongs, with the stone raised on metal claws
to let in the most light
Coming up roses
• SHARED PRONG: Adjacent gems share
prongs Rose-cut diamonds are a
popular choice and cost less than a
• CLUSTER: A central stone surrounded by
several smaller stones
• BAR: Each gem is separated by metal bars
• CHANNEL: Gems are set side-by-side
between the two metal lips of a band
traditional brilliant cut stone of the
• BEZEL: The stone is entirely surrounded by a
metal rim
same width because they are cut flat
• GYPSY: Gems are sunk into holes and lie
flush with the ring’s surface underneath and therefore weigh less.
Jewelled delights Choose
anything from vintage trends in antique
costume jewellery to sleek and modern
creations. If your gown is very elaborate, then
you may want to wear simple accessories, such
as a crystal necklace or choker, bracelets and
earrings. Dreamy and romantic dresses could
benefit from a crystal necklace, silver pendant,
a pearl choker and earrings. The golden rule is
that jewellery should adorn the bride without
drawing attention away from her.
The real deal While online

shopping is hugely convenient, when it comes
to buying bridal jewellery, it’s better to see
and feel the real thing. Firstly, decide on a
budget; ask to see only what you are able
to afford, and make your decision based on
those. Shopping around also pays dividends,
whether it’s your local jewellers, a larger chain
store or a jewellery designer.
Consider buying your diamond first to

ensure the best quality and then have it set
in the design of your choice. It’s also wise to
choose your wedding ring at the same time.
If you’re having your bridal jewellery made by
a designer, remember that you need to order
at least six months in advance for rings and
three months beforehand for other items of
Show your metal Platinum is one jewellery.
of the strongest metals as well as being the
whitest, which means it won’t taint the true Once you have your ring, get it appraised by
colour of your diamond. For yellow or white someone certified by a recognised association
gold, choose 18 or 22 carat. The term ‘carat’, and have it insured. To care for your ring,
or ‘ct’ is also used to describe the proportion soak it once a month in warm water and
of gold to other metals in a piece of jewellery; mild liquid detergent, then scrub gently with
and while 24ct is the purest, it is generally a soft toothbrush and rinse in clear water.
Try not to wear your ring at the beach, in the
considered too soft to be used for wedding
swimming pool or garden, or while you’re
bands.
doing housework.
A trend-setting alternative is steel, which suits DAENA CHANEL
the modern, unconventional bride. Palladium
is part of the platinum group but is not as
rare, making it less expensive than white gold
and platinum.
The wedding band is traditionally worn

to complement the shape and style of the
engagement ring. Current trends have seen
bands becoming so intricately detailed and
creatively designed that a number of brides
are opting for a band as the engagement
ring itself. Hot favourites include eternity
bands with diamonds set in a continuous
circle around the ring, or a pave setting with
a multitude of tiny diamonds set so closely
together that the metal is hardly visible.
4
D
planning guide
Down To
Details
Start planning for your big day as soon as
possible after the engagement party. If you
organise the key elements now, you’ll be well
on your way to having the wedding of your
dreams.
Consult the calendar

Traditionally, your wedding date needs to
be chosen in consultation with your fiancé,
family and key guests to find a day that suits
everyone. Take the following factors into
consideration:
• You’ll have less choice – as well as higher
prices – during busy periods such as the
summer months, holidays and long
weekends.
• While availability is better during winter,
days are shorter and nights colder.
• It’s preferable that your wedding date
doesn’t clash with a big sports event – such
as a World Cup Soccer match!
Seize the day

Tying the knot on a weekday,
Sunday or out-of-season
translates into good value on
your chosen venue.
Decisions, decisions After
deciding on the date of the wedding, your next
task will be to work out between yourself,
your fiancé and both sets of parents, where
DAENA CHANEL
BRIDAL CHECKLIST
As soon as possible • Meet with makeup artist and hairdresser
• Tell friends and family your news • Book beauty and body treatments
• Set a wedding budget and decide who’s paying for what • Discuss wedding shower
• Meet with marriage officer and decide on a wedding date
• Visit reception venues and book as soon as possible Two months
• Determine number of guests and draw up a list • Finalise details with florist
• Choose wedding theme and style • Finalise music requirements for ceremony and reception
• Start a wedding file • Buy ceremony accessories such as candle, wineglasses, etc
• Select a wedding coordinator if required • Secure a dressing room at the venue
• Research wedding vendors, set up appointments and • Choose presents for attendants and mothers
review portfolios • Update gift registry
• Begin a diet or exercise plan • Draw up antenuptial contract and wills
• If your families haven’t met yet, organise a get-together • If changing your surname, inform banks, etc
Nine months One month

• Visit bridal stores to find your dress or book a designer • Confirm all orders, bookings and details with service
• Select and book caterers, musicians/DJ, photographer and providers
videographer • Final fitting of wedding gown and groom’s outfit
• Research and interview florists • Give estimated numbers to caterer and confirm menu
• Discuss ceremony with marriage officer • Trial run for hair and make-up
• Choose your attendants and discus duties • Shop for honeymoon wardrobe and luggage
• Discuss honeymoon destinations • Discuss ceremony details with marriage officer
Six months Two weeks

• First fitting for bridal gown and attendants’ outfits • Finalise event order for ceremony and reception, making
• Order headpiece, veil, gloves and shoes, as well as copies for bridal retinue
bridesmaids’ accessories • Call anyone who has not responded to the invitation
• Organise groom’s and groomsmen’s suits • Give final numbers to caterer and draw up seating plan
• Discuss menu options with caterers and get estimates for • Final haircut and colour touch-up
food and drink • Break in wedding shoes
• Select florist and discuss wedding theme • Arrange transport to and from airport
• Determine order of ceremony and choose wording for • Have car serviced if necessary
programme
• Research airline, hotel and car rental reservations for One week
guests • Confirm date, time, delivery to venue and special requests
• Order invitations with all suppliers
• Buy wedding rings or consult jewellery designer • Meet marriage officer and members of the bridal party for
• Finalise details with wedding coordinator a rehearsal
• Register for gifts • Discuss order of events and who’s who with photographer/
• Consult a travel agent about the honeymoon videographer
• Organise leave from work • Collect rings as well as wedding dress and attendants’
outfits
Four months • Pick up tickets for honeymoon, buy travellers’ cheques,
• Discuss what is required of service providers, such as start packing
playlist for DJ/musicians
• Order wedding favours The day before
• Discuss service with marriage officer, including hymns and • Check reception venue and décor are ready and cake
readings delivered
• Create information cards and maps to include with • Double-check transport arrangements
invitations • Have manicure/pedicure and a de-stress massage; confirm
• Order table cards and place print order for programmes hair and makeup appointments
and service sheets • Check dress is ironed, shoes clean and pantyhose ladder-
• Approve invitations free
• Order wedding cake • Pack an emergency kit of beauty items
• Book wedding night accommodation • Get an early night
• Book wedding transport
• Book honeymoon and organise visas and passports; check On the day
travel insurance • Give yourself enough time to get ready
• Eat a good breakfast
Three months • Have bouquets, buttonholes and corsages delivered, or
• Review and approve service sheets and programmes send someone to collect from florist
• Post wedding invitations with gift registry details • Start make-up and hair sessions early
• Decide on speechmakers • Photo-session with parents and bridesmaids at least an
• Write or choose wedding vows hour prior to wedding
6
the financial responsibilities will lie. So,
traditionally speaking, who does pay for what?
• BRIDE’S PARENTS – Press announcements,
bride’s gown and accessories, reception
venue, flowers for ceremony and reception,
invitations, catering, wedding cake, transport
for bride, photography and music
• GROOM’S PARENTS – Drinks at the
reception; corsages, buttonholes and
bouquets; all costs connected with the
ceremony (excluding flowers)
• BRIDE – Groom’s wedding ring and gift, as
well as bridesmaid’s gift; personal expenses
such as hair and makeup
• GROOM – Bride’s engagement and wedding
rings, gifts for bride and bridal party,
GEOFF GOLDSWAIN
marriage licence and legal expenses
• BRIDE & GROOM – The honeymoon
then get it in writing; that way you’ll be sure
to avoid paying additional, unseen costs.
A helping hand
• Make doing the sums a lot simpler by setting
up a spreadsheet to keep track of all your
wedding expenditure.
If your parents are making a
donation toward your wedding, Location is everything
Book your chosen venue as soon as possible
– the popular ones can get booked up a year
let them know from the outset or two in advance. Think about whether you
want a wedding in the town or country, in a
which areas they are allowed to hotel, restaurant, club, hall, private home or
a less conventional location, such as a nature
have a say in. reserve or beach. Will the ceremony be in a

church or temple, or perhaps outdoors? Also
consider whether you want the same venue
for the reception and the ceremony, and
Keeping on track Settle on
check that there’s accommodation for you
and your guests.
how much you can afford when you first start
planning your wedding and then stick to it,
putting away 10 percent for those unexpected
extras! Once you’ve determined how much
Make a list Do you want your
wedding to be small and intimate (less than
you’re able to spend, remember to: 100 people); average (100 to 200 guests) or
• Write down everything you buy – the little large (more than 200 guests)? Here you need
things can add up really quickly and send
to take your budget into consideration, as
your budget skyrocketing.
well as the size of the venue and how many
• Shop around, doing some internet-based
guests it can comfortably accommodate.
research first and getting at least
three quotes for the bigger items.
To work out your guest list, start with the
• Always ask what’s included in the price and
must-have guests, such as immediate family
and good friends, and then add people until
DAENA CHANEL you’ve reached the magic number. As a general
rule, 25 percent of the guest list should be
allotted to the bride’s parents, 25 percent to
the groom’s parents and the remaining 50
percent to the couple themselves.
Visit a wedding show to get a sense of what’s

out there wedding-wise. There might be
special offers to take advantage of, as well
as catwalk shows, and you’ll also be able to
meet many of the top wedding specialists and
discuss what they’re able to offer you. Take
notes, and ask for business cards. However,
do bear your budget in mind, and don’t sign
anything without consulting your fiancé first!
8
A
coordinators
A Perfect
Plan
How do you go about organising a wedding? LIONEL PETERS - INSTYLE WEDDINGS
Where do you begin? Even if you’ve set a

date, chosen a venue and compiled a guest list,
do you have the time – or the inclination – to best friend can’t do everything – especially
coordinate the intricate details of the perfect if they work too. What’s more, chances are
plan and all the hard work that goes with it? that many of your friends, and sometimes
With all this to consider, it’s no small wonder even your parents, no longer live in the
that wedding consultants are becoming an same town as you. Add to this the possibility
increasingly popular, and essential, part of that you might want to hold the wedding in
your big day. another city altogether, and it starts to look
increasingly likely that you’ll need a helping
hand!
Working girl Women are
Cool, calm and collected
tending to marry later in life, by which time
they’ve often already established a career, and Having an experienced professional around
have precious few hours left in the average will do wonders for your nerves, as well as
day to deal with the intricacies of planning helping to ensure that all your wedding day
a function on this scale. Although some dreams really do come true. A good wedding
might get by with a little help from friends coordinator brings years of experience to
and relatives, remember that your mom and your big event, and will be there for every
part of the process, from helping you achieve
just the right mood for your celebrations and
finding the perfect wedding and reception
venues to smaller details such as crockery and
linen. And, by utilising their relationships with
vendors, consultants are often able to secure
special discounts as well as the best service,
and come in within budget too!
Professional help
You’ ll definitely need some
extra help if your guest list runs
to over 150 invitees, you’re
getting married out of town or
having a destination wedding,
or if you have a limited
timeframe for organising the
wedding.
A master of multitasking, the wedding LARA BAKER
coordinator takes on many roles, and handles
the responsibilities you’d rather not tackle,
thereby freeing you up to concentrate on one
thing – being the happy bride. Acting as an
objective third party and intermediary, a good
consultant is also experienced enough to help
you deal with an oversupply of well-meaning
advice from friends and family.
Supply and demand

A wedding coordinator can
help you get the best deal with
suppliers and service providers,
saving you time, money and the
stress that comes with having to
take care of all the details and
paperwork on your own.
The best of both worlds Not

every bride needs the full services of a
Well prepared Before you start
looking for a planner, you’ll need to have some
basic details worked out. The most important
thing your wedding coordinator needs to
know is your budget, as most preparations
hinge on how much you are prepared to
spend. Thereafter, the next priority is how
many guests you want to invite, followed by
the type of wedding you’d like and finally the
approximate date of your wedding.
FUNCTIONS FOR AFRICA

United we stand
wedding coordinator: it’s up to you to decide
Make sure you and your fiance
how much of the wedding you want to
arrange yourself and how much additional have a shared vision and set of
priorities before you sit down
help you’d like.
Some brides like to hire a consultant as soon

as the date has been set, while others prefer
to do the initial planning themselves and hire
with your wedding coordinator
a coordinator just for the actual wedding, to
handle any glitches that may crop up on the to discuss details.
day and make sure everything runs smoothly.
Style file You and your fiancé also

You could also opt to hire a consultant for
the final weeks leading up to the event, when
things are starting to become a bit more need to agree on the type of wedding that
frenetic. will suit you best. So, what is your style? Is
12
it classic/formal, modern/sophisticated, or
casual/informal? For example, if you don’t want
your fiancé to see you before you walk down
the aisle, and you would like your wedding
to include a sit-down dinner, then a formal
wedding is probably for you. If, however, you
shopped for your engagement ring with your
fiancé, plan to write your own vows and are
comfortable questioning customs that don’t
make sense to you, then your style would be
more modern. If a destination wedding on a
faraway island sounds appealing, you haven’t
considered registering for gifts, and you want
to keep the guest list small, then your call is
casual.
The search is on When you’re amount is based on – a percentage of the

looking for the right wedding planner, word budget, a flat sum or an hourly rate
of mouth is good place to start, so speak to • Whether they will be available for your
friends who have been married recently and chosen wedding date
find out if they used a wedding planner.You • What their background is and how much
could also contact wedding venues and ask experience they have
for referrals. Before you contact a consultant, A reputable planner will be able to put you in
take a look at their website to view a photo touch with other clients they’ve worked with
gallery of the weddings they have coordinated, and supply letters of recommendation.
and then narrow it down to a maximum of
The feeling’s mutual

three.
It’s vital
When talking to a prospective planner for the to find a wedding consultant with whom
first time, find out: you’re able to establish a good rapport. If your
• How much they charge and whether the personalities click, it will be much easier to
communicate about what you want and come
LEMONTREE CONCEPTS up with a shared vision of your wedding day.
The more your coordinator knows about you
and your fiancé, the more successful he or
she will be in matching you up with the right
service provider. For example, a professional
will know not to pair a quiet and laid back
couple with a very energetic and chatty
photographer.
Functioning with flair A

consultant will be able to advise you on the
type of reception venue that best suits your
needs, and what you may or may not need
to hire. For example, having the reception at
home, in a hired hall or club, or even at an
unusual location such as a nature reserve or
beach, will require a lot more input than one
held in a restaurant or hotel.
The action plan

Meet with your hiring
consultant at the venue itself
to decide on a plan of action,
including where things should be
set up.
Before you book your reception, find out
exactly what equipment and décor the venue
will be able to provide. If you do decide to
throw the reception in a private home or an
outdoor location, the payoff from the extra
effort is that you’ll be able to create exactly
the type of wedding you want. In addition, as
you’re in charge of the budget as well as the
décor, there’s no pressure to make your big
day conform to someone else’s set pattern or
schedule.
LITTLE BLACK DRESS
14
STATUS PRODUCTIONS
If the wedding is outdoors, you need to check

whether the site is suitable and if there will
be any extra costs involved. For example,
an uneven site might need to be levelled. In
addition, you may need to hire a generator,
heating, extra lighting or kitchen facilities, and
portable toilets. Find out whether there are
microphones and sound equipment, and to
what extent they will decorate the venue or
customise their usual service for you.
This is where help from a hiring company

is essential. Hiring specialists stock a wide
variety of equipment and appliances, such
as crockery, cutlery and glassware, not to
mention marquees, chairs, tables, lights and
other accessories.
Something borrowed In Hire power

addition to supplying all your equipment
needs, many firms are also able to help with Even if you’re celebrating
decorating the venue, and provide a large
variety of contemporary décor objects your nuptials in an
established venue, you may
such as candelabra, centrepieces and colour
coordinated table linen. Product ranges are
expanded regularly to bring customers the
latest trends in classic, contemporary and
themed props and furnishings, which will find that a number of
help to transform your reception site into
something special and unique. additional articles of decor
LEMONTREE CONCEPTS and equipment still need to
be hired.
Time to delegate While a good
wedding coordinator will handle almost all
aspects of the wedding planning, it’s traditional
for your bridal retinue – not to mention
yourself and your husband-to-be – to take
care of specific aspects of the big day. So, who
is customarily responsible for what?
• Your bridesmaid or matron of honour
should be either a sister or good friend.
Duties include arranging the bridal shower;
ANAND GOVENDER
helping with table seating, place cards and

décor; helping the bride to dress, holding
her bouquet during the ceremony, adjusting
the headpiece and tidying the train and
gown for photo sessions; arranging throwing
of confetti; serving wedding cake; and
looking after wedding gifts and gown.
• Usually your fiancé’s brother or best friend,
the best man organises the stag night; gets
the groom to the church on time; organises
ushers; gives ring to groom; witnesses signing
of register; may organise photographs,
cutting the cake and introducing speakers;
proposes toast to bridesmaids; reads
telegrams; takes care of luggage and
transport after the reception and returns
hired suits.
• Ushers could include male friends and
members of the family, who may help the
best man plan the stag night, hand out
service sheets, escort guest to seats, look
after the bride’s mother and groom’s
parents, oversee the parking and organise ORANGE PETAL ORANGE PETAL
guests for photos. IVOR HAMILTON

• Traditionally the mother of the bride helps
organise the reception, leaves for church
before the bride and is the last person to be
seated at church.
• The father of bride escorts the bride to the
church, leads her up the aisle on his right
arm and stands on her left to give her away;
he may also reply to the toast to the
parents.
• The bride organises décor at the church and
reception venue and chooses bridesmaids’
outfits in consultation.
• The groom arranges legal matters and
replies to the toast made to the couple.
• Both bride and groom plan the wedding
service, draw up and send out invitations
and make honeymoon plans and
reservations.
E
internet
Experts
Online
Smart brides are turning to the Internet to
find wedding-friendly service providers and
big-day advice. And with a world of choices
at your fingertips, locating exactly what you
need has never been easier. AFFORDABLE PHOTOGRAPHY
Web wisdom Local brides need

documents account which can be accessed
anywhere.
look no further than Future Bride’s online • The video-sharing site YouTube lets you
sister at www.futurebride.co.za where, in upload homemade videos, such as snippets
addition to must-read articles, you’ll find an from your wedding or bachelorette party,
extensive local vendor directory backed by and an online editing tool allows you to add
the Ananzi search engine. While home-grown
music and special effects.
websites can put you in touch with service
• Facebook has a number of wedding-friendly
providers in your area, international sites are
also well worth a look: features for interactive brides and guests.
• Google, the big-daddy of search engines, Their Photos, Chat and Gifts applications let
has a super-functional shareable calendar you upload albums, keep in touch with family
and to-do list, and allows you to upload and friends, and say ‘thanks for all the help’
important files like your guest list to a by sending a virtual gift.
18
C
ceremonies
Custom
Need a Marriage
Officer?
Made LEARN TO
DANCE
FOR YOUR
WEDDING
CONTACT
I am willing to travel
and offer an
inter-denominational
Christian service.
Estelle or Claudia
(L.S.A.D.T.A.) Call Clive Jacobson
EX NATAL & GOLD CUP 072 195 2711
Contemporary weddings embrace a wide PROFESSIONAL LATIN AMERICAN CHAMPION
variety of cultural and religious heritages, with 031 201 1136 031 261 1638
082 560 6802 • 082 553 6629 revclive@webafrica.org.za
many of today’s brides and grooms coming
from diverse backgrounds. Modern couples
have a world of options when it comes to
their wedding, from traditional ceremonies to
custom-made services and vows.
Something old The need to

honour your heritage with rituals that have
been passed down over centuries is very
important to many brides and grooms.
Cultural and spiritual traditions play an
especially important role when a couple
shares the same religious faith and adheres
closely to the beliefs of their mutual traditions.
Proudly South African

With interfaith and cross-cultural marriages
on the rise, a number of couples opt to
have two separate wedding ceremonies.
Alternatively, some may choose to hold a
service that reflects their combined heritages,
mixing a little of this and that to make a
DEAN DEMOS PHOTOGRAPHY
may also be held at other licensed venues.
Vows and rings are exchanged and the bride
usually wears a white dress and headdress.
The breaking of the glass is a traditional
element in Jewish weddings, and symbolises
the destruction of the temple in Jerusalem.
Go East The Hindu tradition

regards marriage as a sacred convention
as well as a social contract. Of the sixteen
sacraments (‘sanskaras’), the sacrament
of marriage (the ‘vivah sanskara’) is the
most important, as marriage influences
the personality of man and woman as life
partners, enabling them to take their rightful
place in society.
very personal expression of their love and
commitment. A present trend is to pick and Marriage in the Muslim faith is both a religious
choose ideas from cultures which aren’t obligation and a legal contract. Officiated by
necessarily those of the bride and groom. an Imam, the ‘nikah’ (marriage ceremony) is
performed with prayers, readings from the
Koran and the signing of a register. Although
polygamy is allowed, this is only under the
Past and present most exceptional circumstances.
The type of wedding you choose African dream Guidance and

counsel from the elders is an essential part of
says something about you and most marriages. While different ethnic groups
may have diverse beliefs and rituals, many of
your partner as well as where these traditions have been reworked to suit
modern lifestyles. A number of African
you have come from, your proud

marriages include a civil ceremony and
Christian church wedding, although the
engagement and wedding celebrations usually
heritage and traditions. take place according to tribal customs. African
weddings celebrations are large, communal
gatherings often lasting for a number of days.
Free to choose Times have changed, ANAND GOVENDER
as well as attitudes towards relationships, and

since the legalising of gay marriages through
the Civil Union Act, the definition of marriage
itself has been transformed. Current open-
minded attitudes allow brides and grooms
more freedom of choice than ever before.
Into the West Originating

from a common tradition, the Jewish and
Christian faiths have many similarities, with
both seeing marriage as something created
and sanctioned by God. Jewish weddings,
like their Christian counterpart, fulfil both a
religious and civil purpose.
Although most Jewish marriages take place

on a Sunday, they can be held on any day
except the Sabbath, which is from sunset on
Friday to sunset on Saturday. While Christian
marriages tend to be held on a Saturday, they
may take place on any day of the week. Both
ceremonies take place under a manmade
structure – usually in a synagogue for Jews
and a church for Christians – though they
20
O
stationery
On The
Cards
Wedding stationery ranges from attractive
invitations to place cards and serviettes, with
a design and colour scheme that echoes the
theme of your wedding. An especially eye-
catching invitation will set the tone for the
celebration to come, and give guests an idea
of what’s on the cards!
Just your type Wedding stationery

comes in many shapes and forms, so you’ll
need to consider:
• Wedding invitations, reply cards, registry
inserts and maps
• Service sheets
• Seating plans and place cards
• Wedding favour labels and boxes
• Menus cards and paper napkins
• Confetti
• Bachelorette and bachelor party invitations
• Thank-you cards
Save-the-date invitations include cards, fridge

magnets or e-mails, and should be sent out as
soon as you’ve decided on a wedding date and
at least six months before the big day, so that
guests will know to keep that day free. While
place cards indicate where guests are to sit,
and are found at individual place settings, a
table card is placed on each reception table
and bears the name or number of the table
itself. Escort cards are usually placed on a
table outside the reception area, and inform
guests of the table at which they’ll be sitting.
Save-the-date invitations are

especially helpful if you have
friends and loved ones who
live overseas and might need
advance notice of your wedding
to make travel plans.
Looks inviting Your wedding
will be one of the most important events in
your life, and its announcement – whether
RONA
formal or informal – should communicate

all the anticipation that you feel. While it’s
certainly easier – and ‘greener’ – to send out
invitations by email, a traditional posted
invitation is that much more special!
Arty invites Begin by choosing a

theme that has a special meaning for both
you and your partner, and then use the same
colours, typeface and unique design – such as
a recurring motif or monogram – to feature
on your invitations, service sheets, menu cards
and thank-you notes. A ‘duogram’ is created
from the combined initials of the couple’s first
names.
Colourful creations While

classic cards in white or beige are still tops
with many brides, the past decade has
witnessed an explosion of colour, with current
favourites including plum, navy blue, red,
coffee and black paper. There’s also a range of
different inks from which to choose, so you
could opt to have formal invitations printed
in a dazzling colour. Think copper ink on
aquamarine paper, red on violet, or silver on
scarlet.
Paperwork Brides are also spoilt for

choice when it comes to selecting paper,
which now comes in a profusion of different
textures, shapes and colours. The quality of
paper is also important, with heavier and
more substantial varieties creating a striking
statement. Eco-friendly brides might opt for
recycled paper, or consider an invitation card
that can be folded and then sealed, so there’s
no need for an envelope.
Announce it! The invitation should

convey basic information about the wedding
22
CARMEN ROBERTS
as simply as possible. In addition to giving

the names of the bride and groom and their
families, other essentials include the wedding
date, time of the ceremony and reception, and
the physical addresses of both venues.You
could also include the expected dress code.
Usually wording reflects who is hosting the

wedding – more often than not the bride’s
mother and father – and should be cleared For a touch of class...
Seating plans
with them first. Here are examples of both Place name cards
a traditionally worded invitation and a Envelopes addressed
Menus & wine lists
somewhat less-formal invitation sent out by
Any stationery that needs
the mother and father of the bride: to be beautiful!
Handwritten in Calligraphy
Mr & Mrs Jack Willis or prepared for printing
request the honour of your presence 031 564 6328

ingridlottersmith@gmail.com
at the marriage of their daughter www.calligrapher.co.za
Audrey
to
Richard The couple could also add their parents’
son of Mr & Mrs James Cunningham names to the invitation as follows: Audrey
at the Berea Methodist Church Willis, eldest daughter of Mr & Mrs Jack Willis,
on Saturday 11th September 2010 and Richard Cunningham, son of Mr & Mrs
at three o’clock James Cunningham, etc, or Audrey & Richard,
reception immediately following together with their families, etc.
at Roseway Estate
Dress: Formal The bride’s parents may be divorced, in
which case either the bride’s mother or
Jack & Alexandra Willis father could host the wedding and issue
invite you to join in celebrating the marriage invitations. However, if the bride’s parents are
of their daughter divorced but hosting the wedding together
Audrey the invitation would read: Mrs Alexandra Willis
to & Mr Jack Willis, etc, or Mr Jack Willis & Mrs
Richard Alexandra Nelson, etc, if they have remarried.
Date: 11 September 2010
Time: 15:00 In the event that the bride’s mother has
Venue: Berea Methodist Church remarried and is hosting the wedding with the
and afterwards at the reception bride’s stepfather, the invitation could read: Mr
at Roseway Estate & Mrs William Nelson ... at the marriage of their
RSVP by 20 July 2010 daughter Audrey Willis, etc.
Jack or Alexandra: 031 555 9120
If the bride’s parents are deceased, the
If the bridal couple are hosting the wedding, invitation could either leave out their names
the invitation would most likely be less or be worded to read: ... daughter of the late
formal, and might read: Audrey Willis & Richard Mr & Mrs Jack Willis, etc.
Cunningham take great pleasure in inviting you
to their wedding, etc, or even Audrey & Richard Where the groom’s parents host the wedding
invite you to share in their celebration, etc. You the invitation could read: Mr & Mrs James
could include a quotation, such as lyrics from Cunningham request the pleasure of your
a song or even a poem, to personalise your company at the marriage of Audrey Willis to their
invitation. son Richard, etc.
Get the word out Try to mail
invitations about three months, and not less
than eight weeks, before the wedding to give
guests enough time to reply. Invitations should
be sent to all members of the wedding party
(apart from those hosting the event), including
the marriage officer. If children are being
invited, then each child should be named.
Essential inserts The invitation

should include a reply card with an addressed,
stamped return envelope to enable guests
to RSVP. Wording could be along the lines
of: I/We .......... will be able/unable to attend,
Number of persons ... . Guests should also
be able to indicate any special dietary
requirements, such as vegetarian or kosher.
Some couples are opting to do away with the

reply card and include a telephone number at
the bottom of the invitation instead.
Whichever method you choose, don’t forget
to provide a reasonable cut-off date for RSVPs
of at least four weeks before the wedding. If
guests haven’t replied by the RSVP cut-off date,
don’t assume this means they’re not coming,
they could simply have forgotten to mail the
reply card. Get a friend or family member to
give them a call or email to find out whether
they’ll be attending or not.
Additional inserts could include information

about the bridal registry. This may be provided
by the store in which the wedding gifts are
registered, and comprises a small card with
the address and name of the store, as well
as participating branches. Details about
accommodation at or near the reception
venue are also helpful, especially in the case of
out-of-town weddings, as is a map.
Finding a printer Select a

printer by comparing examples of their
work and get separate quotes. Ask for more
RONA
invitations than you expect to use in case
you need to discard a few. Orders should be
Adults only placed no less than four months prior to the
wedding, thereby giving your printer a month
If children are not being to process the order and yourself another
few weeks to address the invitations
invited to the wedding, make Make sure you are given a sample of an
this clear in your invitation

invitation before they are printed.You’ll need
to proofread the text carefully and double
check that there are no spelling mistakes or
with wording along the lines of omissions. Experts suggest ordering 25 extra
invitations to cover possible changes to the
‘ adults-only reception’. guest list or invitations becoming lost in the
mail – and you might also want to keep some
as mementos or for scrapbooking.
24
Y
gifts
Your
Wish List
While you and your fiancé can look forward
to choosing special items for your new
life together, drawing up wish lists for the
wedding and bridal shower, presents also need
to be picked out for your bridal attendants as RENÉ HARTSLIEF
a token of appreciation for their help.
In store Department or specialist

stores are the tried and trusted route for
bridal registries. Make a point of finding out
exactly what services they offer, such as a
bridal specialist, online or over-the-phone
facility, gift wrapping or delivery, and whether
they’ll supply a registry insert to include with
your wedding invitation.
To determine what you’ll need, first compile a

list of what you and your fiancé already own.
Think about colours and designs, and whether
your style is formal or casual when it comes
to entertaining. A good rule of thumb is to go
for classic designs that won’t date.
Try to include a wide variety of items on your

registry to suit all budgets; you don’t want
guests feeling pressured into spending more
than they can afford. It’s also worth adding a
few expensive gifts to the list, as families or
colleagues may want to buy something jointly.
Bridal showers These encompass

a huge variety of different options to suit your
personal style, from the conventional kitchen
tea or a combined his ‘n hers cellar shower or
pantry party, to a fun-filled bachelorette bash
with your favourite girlfriends.
The traditional kitchen tea is a favourite with

moms, aunts and older relatives, and most
often comprises a morning or afternoon tea
party, or drinks and snacks, held at the home
of the bride’s parents. While gifts are usually
kitchen-related, with brides registering their
preferences at a home ware store, there are
also themed showers such as lingerie parties.
A bachelorette party gets the girls together

for a night out on the town in a restaurant,
club or pub, or at home with a movie or
games evening. Some hens’ parties include
day-long or weekend excursions to a spa or
an out-of-town destination.
M
health & beauty
Modern
Glamour
Every bride would like to look and feel her
KAL DANNER
very best on her wedding day. Remember
that true glamour comes as much from
Cover-girl countdown Get

inner confidence and vitality as from makeup
and other outward accessories, so taking
a holistic approach to health and beauty is off to a flying start with our pre-wedding
essential. countdown.
There is so much to do in the run-up to a EIGHT MONTHS TO GO:

wedding that it is all too easy to neglect your • Start a diet and fitness plan, bearing in mind
own health and skincare requirements. Make that it is safe to lose around two kilograms
a conscious decision that you are going to per month over a six-month period. Aim to
take the time, and make the effort, to look reach your ideal size in time for your dress
and feel on top of the world on your day fitting two months before the wedding. Sign
– starting right now! up with a reputable weight loss organisation,
take out membership at a gym or enrol for
Our complete guide to inner serenity and yoga or dance classes.
radiant health and beauty will help you cast • Find a hairdresser and make-up artist now,
a spell over your guests and thoroughly so you have plenty of time for trials and
bewitch your beloved... experiments. Some artists will do hair and
make-up at home, or come to the wedding
venue itself. A local wedding publication like
Future Bride is a handy and reliable source
of beauty and fitness professionals.
FIVE MONTHS TO GO:

• By taking care of your skin now you’ll reap
the benefits on both your big day and the
honeymoon. Exfoliate every morning with
exfoliating gloves before stepping into the
shower, and apply moisturiser afterwards.
• Begin a course of facials – just one
treatment per month will have your skin
looking smoother, clearer and glowing
with health. Book each treatment with the
same therapist, who will be able to monitor
your skin’s progress and advise you on the
products that are best for your individual
needs.
Watch me glow
A skincare revamp at least
four months before the wedding
is a must if you want healthy-
looking skin on your big day.
26
TWO MONTHS TO GO:
• Check your skincare routine – if you want
to invest in any new products, doing so now
will give your skin enough time to respond.
Choose the best moisturiser for your skin
type; you might need one that’s ‘rehydrating’,
‘quenching’, ‘firming’ or ‘balancing’. Your day
cream should have an SPF of 15 at the very
least.
• Schedule your pre-wedding beauty
treatments, from having your legs waxed
and brows professionally groomed to a
professional fake tan, relaxing lymph-
drainage massage, pedicure and reflexology.
• A manicure is essential as you’ll want to
show off your ring on the day – but not with
flaky nails and ragged cuticles! Book
one at your favourite nail spa or beauty
salon. At home you should care for your
hands daily with a pampering hand cream.
ONE MONTH TO GO:

• Give your skin a boost with an intensive
course of skin-perfecting serum underneath
your everyday moisturiser, designed to
smooth out fine lines while rejuvenating and
replenishing.
• Make a conscious effort to relax in a bubble
bath every evening, surrounded by candles,
and soak away those ‘to-do’ tensions!
• Two weeks before your wedding, file your
nails down to two millimetres above the
fingertips so they grow to an equal length
for your wedding.
• Have your hair trimmed ten days before the
day and, if necessary, a colour touch-up.
THE BIG DAY:

• No matter how nervous you are, eat
breakfast. It won’t make you feel sick or
bloated, but it will line your tummy so the
first sip of bubbly doesn’t make you feel
tipsy, and you won’t feel light-headed while
saying your vows! Try some herbal tea and a
fruit smoothie or some fresh fruit with plain
yogurt, followed by a big bowl of oat
porridge.
• At some point before everyone arrives, take
some time out for yourself by escaping for
a quick walk, listening to some uplifting music
or meditating.
Beauty sleep Transform ordinary

sleep into ‘beauty sleep’ by getting roughly
the same amount of sleep every night. Skin
restores while you sleep, so given a regular
amount of time each night your skin should
start to look brighter and clearer for your big
day. Try to get to bed early the night before
the wedding; if there’s too much on your
mind, it helps to make a list!
Fake it Getting a professional spray

tan assures a streak-free result, but does take
a little longer to dry than at-home varieties.
Don’t moisturise just before you go for your
treatment, as this forms a barrier on your skin
that is hard for the spray to penetrate.
Golden brown
While the golden glow of a
fake tan will enhance your
wedding-day look, make sure
DAENA CHANEL
it’s subtle and no more than a
shade darker than your natural
skin colour.
Wait an absolute minimum of three to four
hours before you shower (eight is usually
recommended); if possible, do it the next
morning. It may be best to have a trial run or
two in the months leading up to the wedding
as results may vary slightly from person to
person. Have the real treatment done about
three days before the celebration.
Put your best face forward

Try these tricks of the trade to deal with
every-day beauty concerns before the
wedding:
• Fruit-acid peels do wonders for a sallow
complexion by exfoliating and brightening
your skin.
• While permanent solutions to scars should
be dealt with by a dermatologist, who
may perform glycolic peels and suggest a
prescription skin lightener, you can cover a
scar on the day by applying a cream
concealer in a shade that matches your skin
tone, followed by a dusting of powder.
• While a translucent foundation can even
out blotchy skin tone, you can treat it in
28
PALM BOULEVARD
the weeks leading up to the wedding with

an anti-inflammatory such as caffeine, green-
tea extract or vitamin C, which will help to
minimise flushing.
• Cutting down on alcohol, salty foods and
caffeine can relieve puffiness, as can a chilled
eye mask or cucumber slices on the eyelids.
Let it go Tied up in tension knots,

bloated and irritable through lack of sleep?
These stress relieving measures will soon
have you feeling back on top!
A clean slate
A lot of the stress we subject
our bodies to is diet-related:
visit a health hydro or spa for a
detoxification programme that
will spring-clean both body and
soul!
Remember to eat wisely the night before
your wedding, especially if you’re having a
celebratory dinner with family and friends:
• Don’t be tempted to overdo rich foods or
champagne
• Eat as early as possible, and stick to
something light that won’t interfere with
your beauty sleep – salmon, brown rice and
veggies are ideal
• Spicy foods may irritate your digestion, while
onions and garlic could linger on your
breath
• Avoid wheat, dairy, yeast and salty foods that
may cause bloating
• Steer clear of fruit for dessert, which may
also make you bloated and gassy
• Rather than caffeine and alcohol, drink
calming, sleep-inducing herbal teas like
camomile
On your wedding day, it’s only natural to feel

stressed or overcome with emotion on your
wedding day, so it pays to be prepared. As
well as lots of tissues, make sure your chief
bridesmaid has an all-in-one emergency kit,
including make-up wipes, powder and lipstick
for touch-ups, Rescue Remedy drops or
pastilles, and a hankie or tissue sprinkled with
a couple of drops of anxiety-melting lavender,
neroli or ylang-ylang essential oils for you to
inhale.
The look of love A makeup artist

can achieve professional results and help you
feel on top of the world. Another advantage
is that they are aware of the effects that are
needed for successful photographs. For best
results, have a trial run before the wedding.
Luscious lashes
For a more natural look, apply
thin layers of mascara rather
than one thick layer, and brush
with a clean lash comb after
each layer.
A good foundation Applying a
thick layer of foundation doesn’t make it last
longer, and thicker bases tend to accentuate
rather than conceal lines and wrinkles. A
liquid foundation has better staying power
than a stick or compact and looks more
natural in photographs.
30
In the pink Blush can work
wonders, but it should look natural, like the
colour you would have in your cheeks after
a brisk walk. Products come in a range of
pinks, peaches, plums, and bronzes. Pinks work
well on fair skin, reddish browns on medium
and cinnamon or plum tones on dark. Layer
powders over creams to make the blush last
longer – it will also create a more intense
look that’s particularly good for photographs.
If you’ve chosen the right shade for your skin
tone, it shouldn’t appear too bright.
• Creams produce a dewy, healthy glow and
blend easily, but they may not last long on
oily skin types and are therefore best for
dry complexions.
• Sheer and long-wearing, gels can be tricky to
blend smoothly because they set in seconds
– you’ll need to work quickly while applying
them!
• Powder blush adds a soft, polished look to
the skin and is easy to apply and blend with
a brush; however, it can look chalky on dry
skin.
• Liquid formulas give skin a subtle, stained
look; most are long-lasting and waterproof
but, like gels, they can be hard to put on.
Brow beaters
Keep brows soft and alluring
with a medium-brown eyebrow
pencil applied in light, feathery
strokes and then blended along
the brow with a brush.
Light fantastic Make your
skin look lustrous on the day by dabbing
highlighter on the top of your cheekbones
and bridge of your nose. If you are wearing a
low-cut, strapless or backless dress, you can
also use it along collar bones, around your
cleavage, on top of your shoulders and on
your back. Pink and warm shades are perfect,
and can even be worn under foundation to
add dewiness to dry skin.
Lip service Your lips will need

lots of tender loving care to make sure that
they cope with all that smiling and kissing at
the ceremony, while still remaining luscious
and kissable for all those romantic moments.
Regular applications of lipstick or lip balm
are a must, so tuck lip balm in your bag, in
your drawer at work, and next to your bed.
Natural ingredients like shea butter, aloe vera
and calendula oil work wonders.
ANAND GOVENDER
ORANGE PETAL
32
RAY ROBERTS THE STUDIO - LISA NICHOLS
Another reason to smile

If you want your lips to look With so much to smile about on your
wedding day, you don’t want gappy, crooked
fuller, draw a line slightly or discoloured teeth letting you down. The
latest cosmetic dental techniques can make all
outside your natural shape with

the difference to your looks and self-esteem,
and give you another reason to look at your
wedding photos with pride and joy.
a lip pencil, then use a lip- Teeth whitening techniques involve bleaching
teeth to lessen discolouring and remove
brush to fill in the shape with a stains. Several home and surgical options
are available, as well as over-the-counter
toning lipstick. treatments. There are two methods involved

– either tray whitening, which can be done
at home after consultation with a dentist, or
EPIC STUDIO PRODUCTIONS
power whitening, which is done in a surgery

with ultraviolet light or a laser.
Remember that over-the-counter products,

such as whitening pens, sticks and sprays, are
not as effective as professional treatments,
and home bleaching kits are generally very
acidic and can damage enamel and gums.
Toothpastes are fine for small stain removal,
but don’t actually whiten teeth.You can
choose either an abrasive or non-abrasive
toothpaste, but remember that abrasive ones
work by removing a layer of enamel!
Fragrant fancies Just one

spritz of the perfume you wore at your
wedding will take you back to that magical
day, so follow your heart when you choose
your fragrance. Don’t take a friend along – the
fragrance has to match your personality, and
she may hate one you love, and vice versa.You
can try out several perfumes in one day by
testing them on paper. Spray a few on blotter
cards, turn over to conceal the brand, and
then smell them away from the perfumery
department. Compare each one to the next,
eliminating the one you like least out of the
two you’re comparing, until you have only one
or two left. Then turn over to see which one
has seduced you.
34
Heaven scent
An invisible accessory,
perfume adds a subtle yet very
personal finishing touch to your
wedding day makeover.
Flawless feet If you’re getting
married in summer your feet will most
likely be on show, so treat them to a little
pampering. Pedicures are a wonderful treat
for your feet, making them look and feel
gorgeously smooth. Many salons offer a
reflexology session along with a pedicure,
allowing you to indulge in a wonderful
massage while knowing that every part of your
body stands to benefit from the treatment!
You can also treat yourself to a home

pedicure. Feet should first be soaked in warm
water for ten minutes, letting the aches, pains
and pre-wedding jitters soak away. Once
your feet have been dried, cut your toenails
(straight across is best) and use an emery
board to smooth off any rough edges.
DAVID WEEKS
A pumice stone will remove the hard skin

from your heels, which should then be treated
to a good heel balm. Massage the cuticle area
with moisturiser or baby oil, gently pushing
the cuticles back. Follow up with some foot
lotion and a good massage. The final touch is
to apply the nail polish of your choice – but
remember to use a suitable base and finishing
coat for a professional look.
Heads up! Remember that the

hairstyle you choose will be in your wedding
photos for years to come, so don’t be overly
bold or adventurous. Once you’ve chosen
your dress you’ll have a much better idea
of how to wear your hair – up or down or
LARA BAKER
36
DAVID WEEKS
chignon style. When deciding on which style

to wear, keep the following tips in mind:
• Select your hairstyle before choosing a
headdress, veil, tiara or hair accessories.
• Consider the neckline of your dress – if you
want to wear your hair down, make sure
your shoulders aren’t covered. Up-styles
work best with high necklines.
• Your face shape counts – a round face needs
hair around the cheeks and jaw line, while a
high forehead could be softened with a
fringe or side fringe. A long face is flattered
by a fringe or jaw-length hair and oval and
heart-shaped faces look good with any style.
• If you have medium-length hair and would
love longer hair on the day, then try the
latest in extensions, which nowadays blend
seamlessly into your hair.
• Condition your hair two days before the
wedding so that it is manageable on the day.
Hair to stay These tips will

ensure that your hairstyle stays perfectly
styled all day long:
• Apply styling products to almost-dry hair
and work into the roots
• Use irons or tongs methodically, section by
section, making sure to use a good styling
lotion
• Let your hair cool down completely before
brushing it into the final style; then finish
with a good hairspray
Trends are becoming more
natural, and while an up-style
is still a winning choice for
brides, you can also safely opt
for something shorter, especially
in the case of a less-formal
wedding.
A little grooming With so
much focus on the bride, it is not unusual
for the groom to feel a bit left out. Don’t
forget that he is also going to be the centre
of attention on the big day, and it is just as
important for him to look his dashing best.
Following a healthy lifestyle regime before the
wedding will also help him to cope with the
stresses and strains of the pre-wedding roller
coaster (and get over his stag night!) and be
on top form for the events to come.
Treatments and products for the skin and

body have as many look and feel-good
benefits for men as they do for women. Even
men who don’t normally use an exfoliator or
facemask, or go for massages, may find that
this is just the excuse they need to indulge!
LARA BAKER
38
LESLEY COLE
A regular skincare routine and visits to the

salon can work wonders for his emotional
wellbeing as well as his looks. The good news
is that there are now exclusive centres where
men can go for all their grooming needs.
‘Grooming’ is used to describe any form

of therapy to polish and refine your man’s
appearance, from waxing and skin treatments
(facials), to body therapies (sports massage,
hot rock massage, reflexology, spa body
wraps), hand and foot treatments (manicures,
pedicures) and hair styling.
GEOFF REDMAN
S
grooms wear
Suit
Sense
With the right grooming and a bit of suit
sense, even the most dishevelled husband-
to-be can look like a prince charming at the
altar. Whether you opt for a classic tailored
suit, formal morning dress or ethnic attire, it
should complement and enhance the bride’s
wedding gown.
Impeccable grooming KAL DANNER

Grooms today have a number of options,
from dinner suits and tuxedos to white tie
and tails and morning suits. While the time
of the day the wedding is being held, as well Velvet revolution
as its theme, will dictate to some extent the
clothing that is worn, a black tuxedo coat Velvet is back in fashion in
2010, especially for late-
with waistcoat and bowtie remains a timeless
and versatile classic, whether you decide to
rent or buy.
afternoon weddings, with
grooms looking smooth and
sophisticated in velvet jackets,
velvet-trimmed tuxedos or
colourful waistcoats.
Shirts come in all styles and colours, with
a variety of embellishments such as ruffles
and pleats. The most popular colour remains
white, although grooms may also choose
fashion colours such as pastels, burgundy,
navy blue and black, which make an individual
statement. The classic tuxedo shirt is white,
comes with or without French cuffs, and
fastens with buttons or studs.
What sets one shirt apart from another is

most usually the collar:
• A spread collar bears some similarity to a
standard button-front shirt; it folds over and
around the neck with a wide division
between points in the front.
• Standing up around the neck and above the
buttons, a band collar reveals the complete
length of the tie surrounding the neck.
• A similar style is the wing collar, which has
two turned-down points in front that give it
the appearance of a spread collar.
40
A stylish twist Vests and

bowties, cummerbunds and cravats, cufflinks
and suspenders – it is the unique twists in the
accessories worn by grooms and groomsmen
that add special flavour to your wedding.
Often matching the tie in colour and material,

a cummerbund is a silk or satin sash worn
around the waist and covering the trouser
waistband. Contemporary grooms usually opt
for a vest instead of a cummerbund to cover
the waistband. They are available in a variety
of styles, with open or closed backs, with or
without lapels, and are worn with a matching
or coordinating tie. A cravat is a long pleated
band worn around the neck, while a bowtie,
which is worn with a wing or spread collar, is
the classic tie for formal wear.
Suspenders or braces are used to support LORD LOUIS

the trousers, and may be worn over a
cummerbund but never with a vest. Cufflinks
add embellishment while fastening French tailoring services and expert advice. To be on
cuffs, and studs close the front of a tuxedo the safe side, especially if suits in larger or
shirt. Grooms are not custom-bound to children’s sizes need to be booked, approach
wear a floral buttonhole (also called a the outfitters in plenty of time to ensure
‘boutonniere’); it’s quite acceptable to opt for availability.
a silk pocket square in a coordinating colour.
The fine print Ask what’s included

Hiring services Although you in the package, such as alterations, and what
may choose to have your suit tailor-made, happens if the suit is damaged. Find out
good suit hire companies have an excellent what their policy is for returning suits, and
range of dress and high fashion suits, morning don’t forget to assign someone, such as the
and evening wear, tuxedos, tails, dinner best man, the task if you’re heading out on
suits and accessories, as well as providing honeymoon straight after the wedding.
Portfoli
gowns
Portfolio of
Gowns
Gowns
HEATHER FITCHET BRIDAL MALL BELLES OF HILTON
DAENA CHANEL DAVID WEEKS BELLES OF HILTON

ELIZABETH SAUNDERS RAY ROBERTS DEAN DEMOS PHOTOGRAPHY
SHONA’S FABRIC & BRIDAL BY TYRONE CROSSMAN BRIDAL MALL
GLAMOUR HIRE BY UNPRECEDENTED PICTURES HEATHER FITCHET KAL DANNER
43
A
bridal wear
Aisle
Style
It’s your wedding day, so walk down the aisle ELIZABETH SAUNDERS
in a gown that celebrates your unique look
and style. princess, Empire, ball gown, slip or sheath
– and it’s up to you to find out which is best
Whether you aim to find your perfect gown suited to your particular silhouette. Start by
in a department store, bridal salon or vintage experimenting with the different cuts, trying
shop, or decide to enlist the talents of a top each on to determine what works for you.
local designer, there are some basic bridal • A-LINE – Named after the A-shaped triangle
wear pointers that will take the guess work formed by the wide, un-gathered skirt which
out of finding what suits you best. narrows toward the snug-fitting bodice,
which may be strapless of have any type of
Let the time of year and style or theme of the neckline. It may fit at the waist, or just above
wedding be your guide. Looking through the or below, and there may or may not be a
latest bridal and fashion magazines is a good seam. This is a very versatile cut that works
place to start. File sketches and cuttings away with many different fabrics.
for reference at a later date. • PRINCESS – A slimming choice that is
similar to the A-line, the distinctive feature
Style counsel The classic bridal of the princess cut is its seams, which may
be piped or beaded, and run vertically from
gown comes in six basic styles – A-line, the neckline, through the waist and over the
hip bones.
• EMPIRE – This high-waisted neoclassical
gown made popular by Josephine, wife of
Napoleon, has a cropped bodice and straight
or slightly flared skirt. The style is excellent
for petite brides.
• BALL GOWN – Made from heavy or
lightweight fabric, this classic fairytale gown
has a small waist, sometimes slightly
dropped, and a wide skirt with petticoats.
Brides of average build or with hourglass
figures will look particularly fetching.
• SLIP DRESS – Preferred by slim brides, tall
as well as petite, this simple yet revealing
dress is bias cut and usually features flowing
fabric.
• SHEATH – Worn by the likes of Marilyn
Monroe, the figure hugging sheath is in fact
LARA BAKER
44
sculpted with darts, tucks and seams. It is
a good choice for petite women as well as
tall, slender brides, but should be avoided by
anyone with a pear shape.
The basic silhouette can be modified by

different necklines and sleeves, making for a
unique creation. Other elements which you
may use to personalise your wedding gown
include the decorative details of seams and
tucks, as well as embellishments such as beads
and embroidery.
Take the plunge

Asymmetrical, one-shouldered
dresses are big news in wedding-
day fashion during 2010,
along with plunging necklines
and backless bridal gowns.
Gowns to flatter Look at your
body shape and consider which gown styles
will highlight your best features and downplay
any problem areas.
TRENT SAUNDERS
• PEAR SHAPED – If you’re small on top and

heavier on the bottom, opt for a dress that
will broaden and emphasise your top half
with sleeve treatments, an extended
Bridal & Evening Gowns Wedding Shoes neckline, or slightly puffed sleeves, and a
textured bodice accented with lace overlays,
embroidery or beadwork.
• TOP HEAVY – If you are full on top and
have narrow hips, look for gowns with
minimal bodice details, simple sleeves,
moderate padding and natural shoulder lines.
Wear a full skirt or style with skirt details
such as asymmetrical draping, tiers or a back
bustle.
• BOYISH – If your bust and hips are
almost equal in size and you have minimal
waist definition, look for dresses with full,
voluminous skirts, Basque waists and jewel
or bateau necklines. Horizontal detailing will
draw the eye across the body and combat
vertical body lines, while off the shoulder or
cap sleeve details will lead the eye up and
add shape to your overall appearance.
• HOURGLASS – Look for gowns with simple
lines, like sheaths and mermaid styles. Also,
try off the shoulder sleeves,V-necklines and
strapless gowns.
• PETITE – If you are not supermodel tall,
try a bias cut: this slim silhouette optically
elongates the body.
• FLABBY ARMS – A terrific trick for a
trimmer look is to wear a sleek silk-satin
46
ANAND GOVENDER
cropped jacket. The structured sleeves create

a lean silhouette; the shawl collar adds a
dose of retro flair to a jewelled strapless
trumpet gown. Conjure the illusion of taut
arms or enhance an ultra-slender shape with
a translucent sleeve on a silk taffeta gown.
• THIN ARMS – Puffed, pin-tucked sleeves add
delicate dimension to skinny arms. A
charming way to make gangly limbs look
great is with a cap-sleeved printed silk-
organza dress, with flowing, floor-length skirt.
• FULL WAIST – Go for a corset top with a
V-shape front.
Most flattering for pear-

shaped figures, a Basque waist
dips below the natural waistline
to form a hip-slimming
V-shape.
48
GLAMOUR HIRE BY UNPRECEDENTED PICTURES
Marriage material The

material used for your wedding gown is
an essential element in the overall design,
creating special effects such as illusions of
light and shade, texture and weight. While
there are traditional fabrics for bridal gowns,
such as brocade, silk and satins, there are
also many innovative and exciting new fabric
ranges.
Colour chart It’s considered best

to aim for a contrast between skin tone and
fabric colour. The most flattering colours
are usually tones of natural white, with only
dark-skinned brides being able to wear pure
white. Olive complexions tend to look good
in shades of champagne or oyster, which have
a pinkish tinge, while an English rose would
be complemented by ivory or eggshell whites,
which have yellow undertones.
Spotlight on 2010
With the focus on all things
romantic, this year’s colour
palette includes shades of
champagne, rose, blush and
antique ivory, with trimmings
of beaded lace and flowers.
Designer brides Having your dress

made by a designer is a lengthy process, taking
in the region of six months or possibly more
for a popular designer, so it’s vital to begin
early. While word-of-mouth is still a good way
to source a dressmaker, asking for references
and seeing ready-made garments remains
essential.
Fit for a queen There is generally

no charge for the first consultation, and you
can expect at least three fittings, with the
first taking place around two to three months
after your order is placed. The first two will
probably entail major alterations while the
third concentrates on the details. Take your
mother or chief bridesmaid with you during
the fittings so that she can learn how to help
you into your dress. Your final fitting should
take place two weeks before your wedding.
A well-cut and fitted wedding gown will allow

you to move comfortably, whether you’re
walking down the aisle, toasting, dancing or
throwing your bouquet. While you’re being
fitted, it’s therefore a good idea to go through
these actions with the dress on, lifting your
arms and moving about. The hemline is an
important detail, and should be about two
centimetres shorter in the front than the
back to ensure you don’t trip.
Off the peg There are also a number

of good wedding boutiques and galleries
where you can buy local as well as imported
dresses off-the-rack, or even hire a gown.
LARA BAKER ANGELIQUE BRIDAL BOUTIQUE
Look at the quality of the fabric and find

out whether the dress can be altered to fit
your measurements, and what the additional
costs will be. Don’t forget that a dress from a
non-bridal boutique could also be creatively
adapted for more of a bridal look.
When shopping for your gown, bring along

someone whose sense of style you trust, such
as your mother or bridesmaid. However, don’t
bring too many people, as you could end
up feeling overwhelmed by all the different
opinions. When trying on wedding gowns,
remember to wear a shoe with a small heel,
which is similar in style to your wedding
shoes.
Going undercover Your

silhouette will be enhanced by the right
bra, which will lift the bust and produce a
slimming, lengthening effect. It’s a good idea
to choose your bra before your gown, which
will allow your dressmaker to get the bust
darts just right. Barely noticeable underwear
is a must for tight-fitting, sheath-like dresses,
and there are a number of smooth, seamless
garments that can achieve this effect.
A personalised, professional fitting is vital to

establish what suits you best. Under-wired
bras can sometimes give better form, while
minimising bras dramatically reduce the size
of the bust for top-heavy brides. For flat-
chested girls wanting to maximise their assets,
silicone enhancers look and feel the most
natural, while the Wonderbra is also great for
creating curves in all the right places.
Stepping out Don’t forget about

this most basic, yet essential element in
your bridal ensemble. After all, you’ll spend
hours on your feet, so comfort is essential,
as is a beautiful pair of shoes which perfectly
complement and enhance your wedding gown.
52
TRENT SAUNDERS
A general rule is that the more

elaborate and ornate the dress,
the more simple the shoe.
Choose shoes as soon as you’ve decided on
the fabric of your gown. Go for a compromise
between comfort and glamour, and select a
shoe style that will flatter your feet. Brides
with broad feet can create the illusion of
length by opting for a v-shaped upper, while
those with narrow feet will look good in a
pieced or strappy upper.
With the dazzling array of wedding shoes

from which to choose, there’s no need to
opt for the ubiquitous pair of white pumps.
From snappy stilettos to stylish kitten heels
or sophisticated flats, current designs come
in whites, creams and shimmering metallics,
with details such as diamante, ribbons, bows
and flowers.You’re also free to go with other
shades to complement your colour scheme
or match your dress.
Crowning glory Minimalist or

extravagant, the headpiece is determined
by your wedding dress as well as personal
preferences.You could opt for a tiara or
coronet, or perhaps something more
discreet like a beaded comb or pretty clips.
Alternatively, fresh flowers in the form of a
single bloom or hair corsage will give a fresh
flourish to your overall look.
Today not all brides decide to wear a veil.

However, if you do, remember to go for a
soft fabric, look at the veil from all angles and
never wear your hair longer than the veil.
Don’t choose a veil that’s too long and likely
to create difficulties when walking, or if you
want to show off your back. Also, remember
that you can increase the denier of the veil
according to your age!
Don’ t overdo the
embellishments on your veil
– rhinestones, pearls, bows and
other ornamentation my end up
looking spotty in photographs, so
use them sparingly!
Artful accessories These could
comprise gloves, stockings, shawls, bags, ring
cushions and even fans. For a classic touch,
wear satin gloves, either to the wrist, elbow
or beyond, depending upon the length of your
sleeve. Fans are back in style and can add a
baroque feel with crystals or even ostrich
feather. Other accessories might include an
embroidered ring cushion, lacy pantyhose, a
satin handbag or a beautiful wrap for bare
shoulders.
The elegant entourage The

colour and design of the bridal retinue’s
outfits will depend on the theme and colour
scheme of the wedding, as well as on the
bridal gown.
Bridesmaids’ dresses should be simple and

understated, never upstaging the bride’s dress,
and should preferably be something they will
be able to wear again, especially if they are
paying for their own dress. Consider subtle
differences in design to suit their personal
preferences and body types.
Clothing for mothers of the bride and groom

should also be chosen in consultation with
the bride to ensure a harmonious mix of
colours and styles.
White out
While it’s inappropriate to
wear white at someone else’s
wedding, many mothers of the
bride opt for combining white
with soft shades like coffee,
blush and taupe, which are also
very flattering.
54
G
transport
Grand
Arrivals
It’s your wedding day, so make sure you arrive
on time ... and in style! TRENT SAUNDERS
the end of the reception, you might have to

Remember that transport needs to be
arrange alternative transport for later. Find
organised well in advance, taking factors such
out whether you’re allowed to decorate the
as the location of the ceremony and reception
car, what speed it should be driven at and
venues into account, as well as the transport
whether it can travel on highways.
that will best suit the type of function you
have in mind. Bear in mind that the vehicle
of choice is often used as a prop in the
photographs as well.
Your carriage awaits
Personalise your wedding with a novel form
of transport, such as a golf-cart, horse-drawn
There and back again First carriage or rickshaw, and if your venue is
next to a lake, you could even arrive by boat.
off, decide how many cars you’ll need and plan
The particularly adventurous might opt for a
who is going to travel in which car. While you
hot air balloon or a helicopter. Bear in mind
could borrow vehicles from friends and family,
though that a hot-air balloon doesn’t always
it may prove easier simply to hire cars and
land where you’d like it to, and a helicopter
drivers for the day. This can be done through
can be noisy and might just ruin your hair-do!
a professional hiring company, which should
be able to provide a limousine service.
Get recommendations from friends and family,

and talk to several rental firms before signing
a contract. Remember to:
• Visit the company and check that the vehicle
you’re booking is in good condition and has
a legal carrier permit and passenger liability
insurance.
• Confirm the booking in writing, including
details such as the number of passengers
and where they need to be picked up.
A vintage model If you decide

to hire a classic or antique car from a
vintage car club, the collector himself is
usually the driver; as he may not wait till
L
venue & reception
Locations &
Celebrations
The venue is the centrepiece of your
wedding-day celebrations, so it’s important
to find just the right one for your reception.
And once you’ve located the perfect place,
you’ll need to consider all the other elements
– from décor themes and schemes to the
order of events – that go into making your big
day truly special.
WELL PLACED
The first step is to find the ideal spot
to celebrate. Venues in KwaZulu-Natal
cover every possible location, from city
sophistication to coastal or country charm
and mountain splendour. Take your pick from
seaside resorts, golf estates, country manors,
private game reserves and boutique hotels,
as well as top restaurants and conference
centres. And if you find a gorgeous venue with
TALA
GRAND MANOR GARDENS
tons of character, you’ll end up saving on the

décor!
The venue you decide on should be a good

compromise between personal instinct – a
place that has a special feeling or meaning
for you and your fiancé – and practical
considerations, such as whether the site can
accommodate all your guests and meet other
important logistical requirements. Popular
venues book up months, even a year or more,
in advance, so make sure you start looking as
soon as you’ve decided how many guests to
invite ... and then secure your booking!
De-stress wedding day plans

by having your ceremony
and reception venues in close
proximity, or choose a venue that
has its own chapel or gazebo.
Leave it to the professionals
Hotels, country clubs and restaurants bring
a professional touch to your wedding day
celebrations, and are able to cater for just
about any sort of reception. Some also offer a
comprehensive and professional wedding day
COLLISHEEN BY CHOLWICH PHOTOGRAPHY
service complete with events organisers to
ensure that everything goes according to plan.
Your chosen venue should be large enough
to cater to your needs yet still offer the
attention to detail and personal touch that
you require.
Question time You’ll need to ask

some – or all – of these questions about a
prospective venue:
• Is the reception area big enough for your
guests?
• Is there enough room at the venue itself or
nearby if your guests want to book a room?
• Is the price within your budget, and what
does it include (such as VAT and service
charges)?
• Are there any special package deals?
• Is the bride and groom’s first night
accommodation included in the price?
• Are there adequate parking facilities?
• If the venue is out of town, how far is it off
the beaten track and are the roads
adequate?
• Is the site accessible for handicapped guests?
• Does it have in-house caterers with a
suitable menu that accommodates
vegetarian, Halaal and Kosher?
Picturesque country wedding venue in the KZN Midlands ~ Up to 200 guests • Must liquor requirements be sourced in-
Chapel and accommodation on site house, or can you bring your own and pay
corkage?
60
TALA
• Is linen provided, as well as other items such

as a podium and PA system and dance floor?
• What is the timeframe for setting up and
vacating the venue, and will you receive help
from the venue manager and staff?
• To what degree can you decorate the venue
yourself?
• Are you allowed to move furniture or
pictures?
• Is the venue child-friendly and does it have a
crèche?
• If the venue is outdoors, is weather likely to
be a problem?
• If necessary, will the venue be heated in
winter and air-conditioned in summer?
• Are you allowed to have a band, candles and
fireworks, or a marquee?
• Will they be hosting other events on the
same day?
• What are the house rules regarding smoking,
and how late can you play music?
• Does the venue have insurance cover?
Visit the venue and take a look around the

premises, including bathrooms and kitchens,
and think about whether it suits the theme
and mood you’re hoping to create at your
wedding. Remember to note things such
as the light quality and the availability and
positioning of electrical outlets for your DJ
or musicians. Ask to see a photograph of the
venue when laid out for another wedding
reception or, better yet, visit it when another
wedding is being set up.
Room at the inn

If you’re thinking of choosing
a venue that’s off the beaten
track, be sure to find out
whether there will be enough
accommodation for guests
wanting to spend the night.
PROVIDENCE BY CHOLWICH PHOTOGRAPHY
Once the venue is booked, have regular

meetings with the manager or wedding
coordinator, and make sure they’ll be there
on the day to supervise the proceedings and
liaise with service providers. Be sure you have
everything that’s been agreed on in writing.
In residence Weddings held in a

private home have the attraction of being
more relaxed and informal affairs.You could
have the reception at your parents’ or your
own home, at a friend’s or relative’s place,
or even rent something especially for the
occasion! Unless you’re hiring a wedding
planner, bear in mind that home weddings will
require every little detail to be organised by
you, your family and friends.
If you do opt to have a home wedding,

remember to:
• Enlist a core group of people to plan and
run things, such as parents, siblings and
friends.
• Take a good look at the house, noting
whether there are any areas that need
cleaning or painting.
• Decide which furniture you need, and
whether other objects and valuables should
be moved out of harm’s way.
• Make sure pets are kept safe and away from
the action – you could even book them into
an animal lodge for a day or two
• Establish an ‘aisle’, which should lead to a
focal point such as a window or fireplace.
• Let neighbours as well as your local
neighbourhood watch know about the
wedding in advance.
• Arrange parking for guests at a nearby
church or school, if necessary.
• Ensure you’ve delegated properly, as you
won’t need additional distractions on the big
day itself.
Outward bound KwaZulu-Natal’s

lovely climate and outstanding scenic beauty
makes for some of the most successful
TALA
62
estate. That way, the location is already set
up for functions and there will most likely be
on-site catering as well as other services and
equipment for you to use.
With other venues, such as public parks

and beaches, there are permits and legal
requirements to consider in addition to
your hiring and equipment needs, such as
a marquee or tent, and parking and toilet
facilities. If you’re out in the elements you
also need to take extra care with the menu
to ensure food doesn’t melt or spoil, and that
floral arrangements are kept fresh.
KLOOF COUNTRY CLUB
outdoor weddings. A pristine stretch of

beach, tranquil forest glade, botanical garden
If you have an extensive guest
or mountain vista has a romantic appeal all of
its own.
list, then hiring a hall might
Remember that just like a home wedding, be a good compromise between a
home wedding and one held in a
holding the reception al fresco can often
work out more expensive than hiring a formal
venue once you’ve added up catering and
equipment costs. Needless to say, it’s also a
lot of work! However, the satisfaction of tying hotel or club.
the knot in your dream location may well be
worth the extra effort. Also, don’t forget the legalities of the Marriage
Act, which requires wedding ceremonies to
An easier option might be to have the take place in a church, public office or private
wedding in the grounds of a hotel or private dwelling with open doors. For this reason,
64
TALA
most couples also arrange a civil service in a

magistrate’s court in addition to a ceremony
at the venue of choice.
Far and away The destination

wedding is an emerging trend that has become
particularly popular in the past few years.
There is an ever-expanding variety from which
to choose, in exotic yet easily accessible
locations around the world. And if you and
your groom come from different cities – or
countries – it’s the perfect compromise for
both families.
Exotic locations
An invitation to a wedding
in an exotic location suggests
glamour and exclusivity,
setting an alluring ambience for
things to come.
On the positive side, a destination wedding is
a relaxed celebration that feels like a holiday,
66
BANGHOEK LODGE
with popular locations including sun-kissed

beaches and tropical islands. Surrounded by
a small group of friends and family, this could
well be the perfect setting for your dream day.
The stress-factor may also be smaller as

well, considering that many resorts offer
tailor-made, all-inclusive packages as well as
a wedding consultant to help organise your
day. There are special deals, especially out of
season, and you’ll probably have a lot fewer
guests to cater for. And when the wedding’s
over, there’s no need to rush off as you’re
already at your honeymoon destination!
However, you should also be aware of any

potential problems that may crop up, and
secure a good on-site planner who’s familiar
with the venue as well as local sources for
any extras you might need. While a number of
resorts offer all-inclusive weddings, remember
to read the fine print regarding ‘free’ weddings,
as these usually only cover a simple ceremony,
bouquet, small cake and bottle of champagne,
leaving you to foot the bill for any additional
requirements.
Legal matters
Establish the legal requirements
for marriage at your chosen
destination, as you may need to
get there early to deal with
paperwork.
JENNY GRINWIS
DREAM THEMES
Choosing the right décor to create your
wedding theme can transform an ordinary
space into an outstanding spectacle.
The location of your reception may serve as

inspiration for your wedding theme, so take
a walk around the site to see if any particular
feature sparks your imagination. This might
include a dramatic mountain backdrop, an
ocean view over fields of sugarcane or the
quiet beauty of an indigenous forest.You
could also look at the architecture of the
venue and consider a theme such as Victorian,
African or Art Deco.
If you find something that catches your

interest, consider developing other elements
which might complement the mood.
Incorporate graphic designs and motifs, such
as stars, seashells or other organic elements
like petals, flowers, twigs and leaves, and use
them throughout as a customised feature to
embellish your theme. Browse through some
magazines, noting colours and patterns which
catch your eye, or let the seasons inspire your
choice of wedding scheme.
Another route is to sit down with your fiancé

and discuss the things you are both passionate
about (apart from each other, of course)! Do
you love music, art or the movies, wildlife and
nature, or any particular hobby or sport? Also
GRAND MANOR GARDENS
68
MAKARANGA GARDEN LODGE
consider your personal style: is it traditional

and simple, modern and fun, sophisticated and
elegant or earthy and outdoors?
Setting the scene A copy of the

seating plan should be placed on a board
outside the reception hall to enable guests
to find their places. The seating plan should
include either table names or numbers, with
guests’ names either listed under each table,
or in an alphabetised list with the table name
or number of each guest alongside his or her
surname.
In addition to – or instead of the seating

plan – you could use attractive escort cards
printed with guests’ names and table numbers,
which are usually arranged alphabetically on a
table just outside the entrance to the dining
area. While these might simply consist of a
small card which is folded in half, you might
also like to tuck the escort card inside a
miniature envelope bearing the guest’s name.
You’ll need one card per couple or individual
guest.
Each reception table has its number or name

displayed on a prominently placed table card,
while a place card with the guest’s name
written on both sides of the card appears at
each individual setting, indicate where to sit.
THORNRIDGE FARM
TALA
Get creative with cards,

experimenting with different
shapes, textures or colours;
and you don ’ t have to line up
escort cards on a silver platter
– string them from branches,
nestle them amid greenery, tie
each one to a sweet treat, or
arrange them in a large dish of
sand or pebbles .
Choose your table name to fit in with the
wedding theme or something that has a
special significance for you and your partner.
For example, if you’re both foodies then
you could name tables after spices such as
cardamon, coriander and clove, or baking
ingredients such as marzipan, vanilla and
hazelnut. Alternatively, if you both share a love
of astronomy, name tables after planets or
constellations, or if you enjoy vintage movies,
give your tables names like ‘Casablanca’ or
‘The Wizard of Oz’.
Get the message Let your family

and friends tell you just how they felt about
FALCON CREST
70
BANGHOEK LODGE
your special day in a guest book. These

are invaluable at a reception for recording
personal messages and preserving treasured
memories for years to come.
Messages could be written around a

photograph of the bridal couple and set on
an easel in the entrance to the reception
venue. Alternatively, individual guest books or
decorative sheets of paper could be left on
tables for guests to record their message, and
these could be bound into a guest book later.
You could also leave a disposable camera on
each table, so guests could take photographs
of one another as well as writing a few words
about you and your groom.
TIME TO PARTY
The course of events at the reception has
evolved over the years into an accepted
running order. However, there’s still a lot of
room for flexibility within the conventional
framework. The following guide takes you
through the basic elements that go into
making up the reception.
Well received After the ceremony,

you could have ushers ready to direct guests
into the car park and then on to the venue. If
you didn’t have a receiving line at the church,
put aside some time now for welcoming
guests in the area outside the main reception
hall, either with a traditional receiving line or
by circulating among them. Over the next half
hour to an hour, snacks and drinks may be
served while music plays.
It is during this time that the bridal couple,

wedding party and close family and friends
will leave to have their photographs taken, and
guests begin to make their way to be seated
at their tables. If you would prefer your guests
to remain outside the dining hall until you
return, make sure there is adequate seating
for them – perhaps in the venue’s lounge or
on the veranda – and that they are protected
from the elements.
Have a welcome drink

waiting for guests at the
reception venue: in summer this
could be a cup of fruit punch,
glass of iced tea or a bucks fizz,
while winter weddings might
prompt a warming glass of
gluwein or cup of coffee.
After the photographs, the bridal party return
to the reception area and proceed to their
seats. The bride’s parents traditionally come in
first, followed by the groom’s parents, flower
girl and ring bearer, bridesmaids, best man
and chief bridesmaid, and finally the bride
and groom. Their arrival is introduced by the
toastmaster.
Seating plans The newlyweds sit

at the traditional top table, which is usually
TALA
72
a long table with the bride and groom in the
centre, flanked by their respective mothers.
The groom’s father sits next to the bride’s
mother and vice versa, with the bridesmaids
sitting on the bride’s side next to the
groom’s father, and the groom’s best man and
attendants on his side, next to the bride’s
father.
These days, a round table is often substituted

for the conventional long table as it allows
the bridal party to chat to one another and
socialise more easily. Another option is to
seat the bride and groom at a table for two,
known as the ‘sweetheart’ table.
To keep everyone happy, you might like to

do away with the top table altogether, and
divorced parents could each host their own
table of family and friends. Alternatively, you
could seat the parent who raised you with
the parent who raised the groom, and the
other parents with the marriage officer and
honoured guests. If you have family members
hosting different tables, your friends could be
seated with you at the main table.
Traditionally, tables for guests are round and

seat between six and ten people, although
current trends are seeing extra-long, banquet-
type tables as well. As a general rule, seat
an equal number of male and female guests
at each table, matching up friends who have
similar interests and seating families as well
as work colleagues together. Remember to
include the musicians and photographer in
your plans, seating them close to the action.
Young at heart If you’re

planning on inviting children to your wedding,
keep them happy with these clever ideas:
• Have a separate children’s area with a special
menu, and provide party bags for each age
group.
• Set up a crèche for the younger children and
secure a babysitting service to take care of
them.
LEMONTREE CONCEPTS
TALA
• Bigger children will love playing on a bouncy

castle, which should be monitored at all
times by an adult or child minder.
• Entertain the little ones with a tea party,
dressing-up game, magician or balloon artist.
• Children love to get creative, so let them
loose with crayons and papers – under strict
supervision of course!
Toasts and speeches The

speeches begin once the bride and groom,
their parents and the bridal retinue have
been served the first course. They include
proposing toasts, thanking members of the
bridal party and replying to other speeches.
Stand and deliver The first

rule of speechmaking is to be prepared. Even
if you have the gift of the gab under normal
circumstances, if you haven’t thought through
what you are going to say beforehand, then
the added pressure of talking in front of so
many people will have you either clearing
your throat while staring blankly around the
room, or rambling on about nothing.
Start by deciding on what you’d like to say.

Begin with an amusing anecdote or, if you’re
not comfortable with making jokes, a sincere
statement about the importance of the day
is sure to get everyone’s attention. Follow
this with a simple message or story. The most
effective speeches last no longer than three
minutes – which is usually the maximum
attention span of your guests! Above all, be
yourself and stick to a speech style that makes
you comfortable.
Remember to mention those that you’re

toasting by name; stand while you make the
toast, and if you’re receiving a toast then
remain seated. Don’t forget to mention the
bride and groom, and both the bride and
groom’s sides of the family; whether you
know them well or not they should be
acknowledged, so try to find something
nice to say about them. Strictly off limits are
subjects such as ex boyfriends and girlfriends,
embarrassing secrets or anything too personal
or revealing.
KLOOF COUNTRY CLUB MAKARANGA GARDEN LODGE
74
Once you know the contents of your speech,
you should write it out in full. Work out
how long it takes to recite and then start
practising. It’s preferable to learn it by heart
so you don’t have to anxiously glance at
your notes and lose eye contact with your
audience. Try out your speech in front of the
mirror, and then on some friends.
Don’t get drunk, rush into your speech or

mumble. Speak slowly and loudly enough so
everyone can hear. Let the tone of your voice
rise and fall to create interest. Remember that
the most important part of the speech is the
conclusion, and you should try to end on a
high note – something heartfelt and touching
always works well.
Rise to the occasion While

you’re free to create your own template for
the day, the traditional order of speeches is as
follows:
• First to speak is the bride’s father or, in his
absence, a close relative or family friend. He
welcomes the wedding guests and proposes
a toast to the bride and groom, wishes
them good fortune and then talks about his
daughter, relating a few amusing stories
about the bride and her new husband. He
may also toast the groom’s parents.
• The groom responds to his father-in-law’s
toast, and thanks both sets of parents as well
as guests who have contributed to the big
day and those who have travelled long
distances to be there. He also talks about
the bride, sharing details about how they
met and how he proposed, and closes his
speech by toasting his new wife.
• It’s becoming increasingly common for the
bride to make a speech as well, even if it’s
just a few words thanking her parents, the
bridal party and guests.
• The best man talks about the groom and
the couple’s courtship, and may make a few
light-hearted jokes, though nothing
derogatory or embarrassing. He also reads
messages from those unable to attend, and
toasts the couple as well as the bridesmaids.
76
Let them eat cake After the
speeches are finished and the main course
dishes have been cleared, the master of
ceremonies or best man announces that the
bride and groom will be cutting the first slice
of wedding cake together. The bride holds the
knife with the groom’s hand placed over hers;
they cut the cake together and then break and
eat the first slice. The rest of the cake may
then be cut into small portions and served to
the bridal party and guests.
Take to the dance floor The

first dance and other special dances generally
take place after dinner has been served and
the cake has been cut. The bride and groom
are expected to lead the first dance, which
may be a traditional waltz or another slow
song that is a particular favourite. Thereafter
the parents take to the floor, followed by the
rest of the bridal party. If you and your groom
have two left feet, you might consider going
for dancing lessons leading up to the wedding.
Alternatively, get an instructional DVD which
breaks down the moves of the most popular
ballroom dances, from the waltz to the foxtrot.
Wish us luck Usually the

newlyweds leave the reception before their
guests, and it is up to the best man and chief
GRAND MANOR GARDENS
bridesmaid to make sure that everything is
ready. The best man checks that the couple’s
baggage is packed for the honeymoon, then
makes the announcement and organises the
guests for the send-off. Before they leave, the
bride throws the bouquet and the groom the
garter, after which dancing may continue for
an hour or more. Of course, the send-off is
not a hard and fast rule, and the bride and
groom are quite entitled to party the night
away with their guests. Many couples feel that
after putting so much effort into their wedding
day, they would like to enjoy it to the full.
Furthermore, if the reception venue is a hotel
it is likely that they will also spend the night
there.
78
D
hiring & décor
Deck The
Halls
While you’ll no doubt need to enlist the
services of hiring company if your reception
in being held in a private home, hired hall
or outdoors, even if you are holding the
reception at an established venue a number
of items may need to be hired separately. Find
out from your venue manager exactly what
they will and will not be able to supply.
Pitch your tent Don’t forget to

protect yourself and your guests from the
elements if you’re having your wedding
outside.You’ll need to hire a marquee or tent,
or at the very least an awning. The best spot
to set up is on high, level ground, free from
overhead power lines.
Size it up The size of marquee

you choose is determined by the number
of guests attending as well as the type of
function planned. A tent that holds 150
guests for cocktails can comfortably seat only
half that number for dinner. Also consider
whether there’s room for a dance floor, DJ,
band and buffet stations.You might also need
a service tent where the caterer can prepare
and plate food.
There are two types of marquees:

• Tents with centre poles and guy ropes work
well on grass or sand.
• While more expensive to rent, marquees
with freestanding frames can be set up on
most surfaces, fit into tighter spaces and
come with their own lighting, heating and
cooling systems. As they’re so sturdy, you
can also hang objects from the ceiling.
LITTLE BLACK DRESS
DESIGNER DECOR
Framed marquees are a good

option if you need a weatherproof
structure, which can be either
air-conditioned or heated.
The marquee should be put up about two
days before the reception. Make sure to
order a marquee with a floor, especially if
you’re going to have a band or DJ, or if there’s
a chance of rain. Then, if it does rain, the
water will run underneath the floor instead
of seeping through the sides of the tent and
soaking the ground.You will need roughly ten
square metres of dance floor for every 30 to
40 guests.
Outdoor accessories Along with

a marquee or gazebo, an outdoor wedding
might need arches, pillars or even fountains.
You may want a stage to be set up inside the
marquee, or red carpets to be placed along
walkways. Other needs could include pool
decking and garden umbrellas, or foliage and
flowering plants.
Table types While the main table is

usually rectangular, guests’ tables tend to be
round, with a diameter of 1.5 to 1.6 metres,
and seat between eight and ten people. You
KLOOF COUNTRY CLUB STATUS PRODUCTIONS
80
could also opt for square or rectangular, as
well as long banqueting tables. If you decide
to have long banqueting tables, remember
that guests still need to be able to reach the
dance floor and toilet facilities, so it’s not wise
to seat more than 20 people at one table.
Other tables you might need to hire include
buffet and bar tables, as well as smaller tables
for the cake, gifts and guest book.
Take a seat You’ll need to hire

enough chairs for guests to be seated at their
tables, as well as a few extras to place around
the reception area. Cushioned chairs and chair
covers are available, and you might also like to
add some decorative elements yourself, such
as a small bouquet or floral garland.
WEDDING CO-ORDINATION,
Setting the scene When DESIGN & HIRING
decorating, take the big picture into account
and choose elements that make an impact,
such as stunning centrepieces, dramatic
Planned to Perfection
lighting and eye-catching colours. Use colour • Crockery & Cutlery • Linen & Tableware
and design to create the right mood and • Tables & Chairs • Glassware • Marquees
atmosphere at your reception venue. • Silver Candelabra & Silver Vases
Tel: 031 764 2416 • Fax: 031 764 5106

While shades of white, ivory and ecru are
Cell: 083 463 7704 - Doreen Barker
always elegant, current looks include: doreen@barkergroup.co.za
• Contemporary hues – team soft turquoise www.plannedtoperfection.co.za
with deep chocolate brown for an elegant
scheme, or shades of coral or salmon pink
offset with ivory or green DESIGNER DECOR
• Bright and bold – splash out in cream and

orange, which looks fabulous combined with
either green or brown, or try lavender with
touches of racy red
• Striking monochromatic patterns and prints
Purple reign
One of the hottest colour trends
for 2010, purple can be
teamed with gold, for a lavishly
luxurious look, or with shades
ORANGE PETAL
of pink to create a vibrant and

ultra-modern spectacle.
Low-down on linen Your
choices when hiring linen are no longer
limited to white or cream. Black and white
combinations are popular, and there are
different hues, patterns and textures to suit
any theme or colour scheme. To create an
ultra-luxurious effect, choose linen that’s
longer than floor length.
The latest looks in linen include an array of
striking colours and glamorous fabrics, with
beaded or hand-painted details, tassels and
embroidery, as well as decorative table
runners or overlays in gauze or organza. .You
might like to tie napkins with ribbon and add a
decorative floral note, such as a single bloom
or even a leaf or other natural element, or
create interest with a fancy fold.
Place settings Cutlery, crockery,

chinaware, flatware and glassware make up
your place setting requirements, and may be
provided by caterers or through your hiring
company.You can also hire a range of display
FUNCTIONS FOR AFRICA equipment, such as mirrors, trays, cheese and
snack boards, cake stands, fruit and punch
bowls, and baking dishes.
Centre stage Table accessories

include vases, stands and candelabras.
Centrepieces should either be fairly low or
quite elevated, as guests need to be able to see
one another across the table. If you’d like to
create movement and flow across the room,
consider varying the height, size or shape of
centrepieces between tables. With the
emphasis on adding personalised touches, you
could also create a centrepiece that has a
more customised look. Float flower heads in
a shallow bowl, fill clear vases with coloured
water, compose a bowl of fruit and foliage or
incorporate earthier tones with pebble-filled
vases and decorative elements from nature.
Lighten up Place taper candles

into even taller candelabra and transform a
formal ballroom into a glowing fairytale scene.
For added emphasis, group pillar candles
together and place candles throughout the
reception area – on mantelpieces, table
tops and even along outdoor paths. For an
outdoor, evening wedding, consider hurricane
lamps and strands of fairy lights, with paper
lanterns in white or a profusion of bright
colours adding a warm glow.
82
G
favours
Gifts
To Go
Call them wedding favours or bonbonieres,
these are the gifts that are bought or made
for your guests, which traditionally consisted
of sugared almonds tied in a net posy.
Contemporary trends are seeing a huge
variety of different types of favours – from
edible treats to personalised mementoes.
Wedding favours are usually set next to the

guest’s place card at their table, or on a table
all of their own near the door, so that guests
can collect them as they leave. The type of
gift you choose should reflect the theme of
the wedding, whether it’s playful and modern,
natural and earthy, charming and traditional,
romantic and whimsical or simple and elegant.
Uniquely you Personally wrapped

home-made gifts bearing customised labels
stamped with your wedding motif are LITTLE BLACK DRESS
currently in vogue.You could consider:

• Burning a CD with your wedding playlist on
it
• Displaying colourful sweets in clear
containers
• Home-baked biscuits or cupcakes iced with
your motif or monogram
• Tiny pots of jam or preserves
• Earthenware pots, each decorated with a
guest’s name and filled with herbs
• Decorative linen sachets in the scents of the
season
Party favourites While pots of

citronella or a citronella candle are a nice
touch for a summer wedding, perennial
favourites include beautifully decorated sweet
treats, scented soaps or candles in your
wedding colour scheme, potted plants and
seeds, miniature bottles of liqueur or
schnapps, beautifully decorated coasters or
frosted glass tea-light holders, wine or
champagne bottle stoppers and the ever
popular and decadent chocolate truffles.
Home grown You could even

celebrate your heritage with a proudly South
African favour. This might be a miniature
potjie pot filled with sweet treats, an animal-
print candle or an iced cookie or cupcake
decorated with a king protea or springbok!
FUTURE BRIDE 2010.indd 83 2/3/10 10:44:10 AM

B
flowers
Blooming
Gorgeous
Your choice of bridal flowers will be based on
your wedding theme and colour palette. Start
giving this some thought as soon as you’ve
booked a reception venue and chosen your LIONEL PETERS - INSTYLE WEDDINGS
gown.
wedding, either through word of mouth or by
contacting some top florists and asking to see
Petal prep Browse through local and samples of their work.
international home and garden magazines to
get a sense of what you like, as well as the Explain to your florist what you have in
latest trends. Keep in mind the season in mind, as well as showing her a sketch or
which you are getting married, the time of day, photograph of your dress and a fabric sample
and the look and décor of your venue itself. in order to get an idea of which flowers and
floral accessories – such as ribbon and other
decorative elements – would work best.
Pick of the bunch Once you have Other things to take into account include
your height and build, as well as the flowers
some ideas about the type of flower
arrangements and bouquet that appeals to that will be in season. A simple bouquet
you, the next order of business is to find works best if your wedding dress has an
a florist. Start your search well before the intricate and elaborate bodice, whereas you
could go with a more showy arrangement if
LIONEL PETERS - INSTYLE WEDDINGS the bodice is classically elegant.
Your florist has probably had years of ‘hands-

on’ experience, so do be guided by her
expertise. She should also be able to suggest
alternatives if certain blooms you have in
mind are unavailable or very pricey. Make sure
your contract includes the names and colours
of the flowers in the bridal bouquet and other
arrangements.
Find out whether your venue of

choice has a list of recommended
florists, who should also be able
to show you photographs of their
past displays there.
Seasonal selections While many
flowers are available year-round, they are
most affordable and best looking in-season;
imported blooms will cost considerably
more. If you’re planning an outdoor summer
wedding, select flowers than can withstand
hot weather. Consider sturdier varieties, such
as orchids, and avoid flowers like gardenias
that tend to wilt in the heat.
84
GEOFF REDMAN
Say it with flowers Your

bouquet is the ultimate romantic statement.
Today, the trend is for natural styles and
arrangements that express your individuality,
and there are many different ways for you to
personalise your bouquet – just one exotic
colour or dramatic detail can make all the
difference.
You could re-create the timeless elegance

of the bouquet carried by your mother or
grandmother; select a distinctive fragrance by
using herbs, citrus fruit and scented flowers
such as gardenias, jasmine and freesia; have
elements in your bouquet mimic organic
forms, such as pebbles, sea anemones and
coral (think ranunulus, cosmos, lilacs and lace);
or choose a special, stand-out feature, such as
a profusion of vibrant colours or an extra-
wide ribbon.
Try one of these top bouquet selections:

• The single bloom is stylish, simple and ~ Venue and Table Styling
modern, as well as budget-friendly. An eye- ~ Marquees and Gazebos
catching ribbon in your signature colour may ~ Garden Weddings
~ Complete Wedding
be tied around the stem.
Co-ordination
• Also referred to as ‘waterfall style’, the
cascade is loose and relatively unstructured.
Flowers could comprise calla lilies and roses, TEL 031 202 2312
www.durbanflorist.co.za
interspersed with decorative greenery.
• These days, the natural charm of a hand-
tied posy is very popular at weddings. Added
elements could include bits of lace, diamante
or beads.
• The nosegay consists of a few long-stemmed
flowers bound together and wrapped in a
long ribbon in a colour that matches the
wedding dress.
• More showy than the nosegay, the arm
bouquet is carried cradled in one arm.
Corsages and buttonholes

The mothers of the bride and groom wear
corsages, generally in shades that complement
their outfits. Classical choices include orchids,
roses and gardenias, but you could also go for
IVOR HAMILTON
something more contemporary, such as Inca

lilies or freesias.
Wise buys
Use the best flowers for the
bride’s bouquet and groom’s
buttonhole, and value-for-money
alternatives in the bridesmaids’
bouquets and reception
arrangements.
Bridesmaids usually have a similar bouquet
to the bride, but on a smaller scale. Hand-
tied or posy bouquets are winning choices,
while popular flowers include roses and
gerberas. Try to have simple, easy-to-hold
flowers for your flower girls. They may be
happier carrying baskets of flowers or petals
to shower the newlyweds with after the
ceremony.
The men in the retinue wear buttonholes

or ‘boutonnieres’, which may contrast or
complement the colour of their outfits, or
perhaps even mirror the flowers in the bride’s
bouquet. Have the groom’s buttonhole stand
out by selecting a different colour for him, or
adding creative embellishments such as foliage
or sprigs of herbs.
NEIL CUNINGHAME
86
Ceremonial blooms Floral
arrangements in a place of worship tend to
be simple and elegant, with white or pale
pastel shades combined with lots of greenery.
Arrangements are usually placed at the altar,
the entrance and on window ledges. If the
church is large you may decide to make a bold
statement with one or more large pedestal
arrangements. An archway of flowers in a
variety of colours or trailing green foliage at
the door of the church creates a lovely frame
for the bridal couple.
Party pleasers The top table is

traditionally decorated with a long, low
arrangement placed in front of the bride
and groom, and may be flanked by smaller
arrangements at either end of the table.
Consider running a garland along the length
of the table, either in a straight line along the
top or in swags at the front.
Table centrepieces can range from a simple

bunches of spring flowers at an informal
wedding to sophisticated and ornate creations.
Arrangements should be low, or tall and thin,
so they don’t stop guests from seeing one
another and socialising.
Room arrangements may consist of a few

large arrangements placed on pedestals near
the entrance or on either side of the top
table. Smaller arrangements could adorn the
buffet and cake tables, while an arch of flowers
is particularly effective at the entrance to the
room.
LITTLE BLACK DRESS
F
catering
Fabulous
Flowers complete the overall look of your special day,
so select a style and colour scheme that complements
your bridal gown as well as the theme and décor of your
Feasts
Whether your wedding is large or small, make
sure you ‘marry’ the food to the fabulous
occasion. The best catering does more than
simply satisfying guests’ appetites – it delights
their senses too!
The food factor Factors such as

the reception venue, the number of guests
attending, the time of day and season, as
well as the theme of the wedding, the décor
and dress code, will help you decide on the
type of menu you need. Another important
consideration is your budget. Breakfasts, light
lunches, afternoon teas or cocktail functions
with snacks tend to be a lot more cost
effective than a full sit-down dinner or buffet.
ROSEWOOD PHOTOGRAPHY
A formal, seated dinner is made up of a
first, main and dessert course, and is usually
preceded by a cocktail hour with hors
d’oeuvres.You’ll need to find out in advance
the number of vegetarians or other guests
with special dietary needs that are attending.
This has to be accurate as meals need to be
ordered in advance and guests identified on
the seating plan.
The first course is typically small, and might

comprise a soup, seafood salad, tomato and
feta tartlet or mushroom risotto. The entree,
or main course, traditionally includes a meat
or fish dish, such as poached salmon, rack of
lamb or roast chicken, as well as a vegetarian
alternative. Dessert may either be your
wedding cake or a separate choice, such as a
cheesecake or crème brûlée.
Help yourself
A buffet is often more cost-
effective than a set menu, as
you’ ll need fewer waiting staff.
A perennially popular option, buffets allow
guests a greater choice in what they would
like to eat. However, do make sure that there
are halaal, kosher and vegetarian options
available.
88
FOOD MATTERS
Well catered Unless catering is

provided at your venue of choice, you’ll need
to enlist the services of a professional catering
company well in advance. First contact a few
recommended companies, obtaining detailed
quotes reflecting all costs and price per head,
including possible extras such as gratuities for
waiters. Don’t just go on price alone; sample
and compare menus, and check how many
members of staff your package will include.
Also, find out about the kitchen facilities – if
any – at your reception venue, as your caterer
may need to have access to these.
Drink and be merry While

the types of drinks you serve will depend of
the type of occasion as well as the time of
day, one of the chief considerations remains
whether to have an open or limited bar.
STUART DODS
While the open bar is the most costly route,
also remember that as the hosts you should
try, as far as possible, to ensure that your
guests have what they want, when they want
it. An open bar is relatively simple to organise
if you’re having the reception at a hotel or
restaurant; however, if it is held elsewhere
then you could either buy the drinks yourself
and hire a barman, or contract a caterer to
take care of it for you
A limited bar might offer drinks such as wine

(two whites and two reds), beer (three or
four different varieties, as well as light and
non-alcoholic) and sparkling wine. It’s also
a nice touch to offer a signature cocktail or
a punch – both alcoholic and non-alcoholic
varieties. If guests prefer spirits, these could be
served on a cash basis.
I’ ll drink to that
As a special touch, make
personalised labels for your wine
bottles with your names and
wedding date.
SAMEER’S CATERERS
90
The traditional toast calls for champagne or a glittering skyscrapers adorned with dramatic
good sparkling wine.You’ll need approximately diamante or beads.
24 bottles per 100 guests for the toasting, and
somewhat more if champagne is to be drunk Individual cakes are also popular as an
throughout the evening. alternative to the single, tiered wedding
cake, and might consist of miniature petit
Hot cakes
fours or pies, cappuccino brownies, squares
Before ordering your of raspberry shortcake or even miniature
cake, check to see whether your caterer versions of the traditional fruitcake. Bring in
will provide one as part of their service. a little foreign flair with a traditional French
Get recommendations from other wedding wedding cake – the croquembouché – which
specialists and visit bakeries. Look at comprises a pyramid of choux pastry puffs
photographs of their cakes to make sure they filled with custard and glazed with spun sugar.
are able to fulfil your needs, and don’t forget
Individual cakes placed on a

to sample some as well. Find out whether the
bakery will deliver the cake to the reception
venue or whether it will need to be picked
up. This could be a problem if the cake is very
intricate and needs to be assembled. tall stand can either replace the
As the wedding cake is often the centrepiece
of the reception, it needs to be particularly
wedding cake or substitute as
eye-catching. These days you could choose
anything from a traditional tiered fruitcake
wedding favours.
encased in marzipan and white icing to a
decadent chocolate confection, a vanilla
mousse cake topped with strawberries and
cream, or towers of massed cupcakes,
brownies or profiteroles.
Back to nature
Decorating your wedding BRUCE RODDA
cake with fresh flowers or

summer fruit captures the feel of
country-style wedding.
Tiered wedding cakes also come in square and
hexagonal shapes, and ideas for decorative
icing have never been more exciting
– extravagant flower-bedecked creations in
pastel shades, simply elegant cakes covered in
graphic details inspired by art nouveau, and
P
entertainment
Party
People
Your wedding entertainment should be
based on the type of occasion as well as your
budget. While entertainment traditionally
consists of a band, DJ or musical ensemble
– or perhaps a combination of all three
– contemporary couples are choosing new
elements to add an individual twist to their
special day.
During the ceremony While a DAVID WEEKS

church might have its own resident organist
and soloist, you could also hire one or more
musicians to play a classical piece, such as
Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, or a singer to perform
The sound of music Select
music that will set the right tone for your
something more contemporary – perhaps wedding day celebrations, complementing the
a Josh Groban or Andreas Bocelli song. theme and mood:
Whatever you decide, do remember to run • For a classic occasion, string quartets still
your musical choices by your marriage officer come out tops, while a harpist or pianist is
first! an elegant option that’s perfect for small and
intimate weddings.
• If you plan to party the night away, then a
DJ is generally a good bet for getting a
mixed crowd on the dance floor.
• Turn up the romance with a swing band,
whose sassy style will keep your guests on
their toes.
• Add a dash of style with an infectious Latin
American band, which would also be ideal
for a large wedding with a Mardi Gras theme.
Think about mixing it up! Hire a classical

ensemble or soloist for the earlier part of
the celebration while your guests are sitting
around and socialising, and a band or DJ to
raise the tempo once the party really gets
going. Also keep in mind that there may be
92
certain restrictions at your venue which will
have a bearing on the music you choose.
Something new Hire a magician

or juggler to amuse and beguile young
and old alike, enlist the services of a Latin
and Ballroom dance instructor to teach
your guests the basic moves, or organise a
fireworks display and end the day with a real
blast!
Talent search Start interviewing

prospective musicians and/or DJs as soon as
possible, consulting local bridal publications
such as Future Bride as well as getting
recommendations from the manager of your
reception venue and other service providers.
Whatever you do decide, don’t delay, as
popular wedding entertainers may be booked
up more than a year in advance.
Live act A band is a popular

choice if you’re having lots of guests at your
reception. What’s more, the best bands
have an energy that is seldom found in
recorded music. While a big band is usually
more expensive to hire than a DJ, don’t
underestimate their visual appeal – they’ll be
an entertaining spectacle whether guests are
dancing or not. And it’s often the case that the
personality and charisma of the band proves
infectious, luring even the most staid guests
onto the dance floor.
LESLEY COLE
C
photography
Capture the
Moment
Wedding day photographs tend to be less
formal than in days gone by, capturing events
as they unfold, including all those special
DAVID WEEKS
moments that make this occasion especially
meaningful.Your photographer should be
both technically proficient as well as able to
portray the excitement, the emotion and all
the other elements which go into making this
day special and unique.
No other memento or memory of your

wedding day will be as cherished as your
photographs, which will always be there as
a treasured reminder of a very special day
in your life. Our complete guide to the big
picture will ensure that all your wedding
memories are magical, not only for you, but
for your children and grandchildren too.
It’s up to your photographer to translate your

unique vision of your wedding, so you’ll need
to be able to trust him implicitly. That is why
finding ‘the one’ ranks up there with the most
important decisions you will make for your
big day. Fortunately for you, brides today are
spoilt for choice.
Plan ahead You should book your

photographer at least six months before the
wedding. Some in-demand photographers
may be booked up to 12 months or more in
advance, especially during popular months like
June and December.
Select and book your venue before you

do this though, as the location and time of
year you choose may influence the style
and content of your photographs. An island-
themed wedding party alongside the beach,
IVOR HAMILTON
PAUL HENMAN
for example, will have an entirely different

feel to that of an autumn wedding at a stately
home in the country, or an ‘Out of Africa’
ceremony at a game reserve.
Do your homework Your first

and most vital step is to find a photographer,
keeping these pointers in mind:
• A good starting point is to do some
on-line research and compare different
photographers’ websites.
• If you loved the photos you saw in another
couple’s photo album, you could find out
who they used, or ask married friends for
advice and recommendations.
STUART DODS
96
GORGEOUS DAY AT TALA
• The manager of the venue where you will be

holding your reception should also be able
to give you some helpful advice.
• Another good way of seeing who the
current favourites are is to page through
a local wedding publication such as Future
Bride, where you’ll find photographs of
beautiful brides and celebrations taken by
the top local photographers.
• You could also visit a bridal exhibition to see
whose work holds the most appeal.
Highly rated Price gives you a

good idea of how in demand a photographer
is, and you’ll usually find that the more popular
a photographer is, the higher his or her rates
will be. If beautiful images are a priority for
you, it is well worth the investment.
The images in your album will always be there

for you, while other details are all too easily
forgotten. It makes good sense to compare
the amount you plan to spend on photographs
to what will go on décor, flowers, catering
and music, rather than feel that it is more
important to splash out on what people will
see on the day.
It’s vitally important to

choose a reliable photographer
who has the necessary experience
and expertise to depict the style
and unique ambiance of your
wedding.
Bear in mind that photography usually makes
up about ten percent of your overall wedding
budget. Consider these budget-wise tips when
organising your wedding photography:
• Instead of using the studio’s star
photographer, enquire about an adequately
qualified assistant whose rate might better
less expensive there’s a lot of work involved
in creating your own prints and album, and
you may not achieve the same professional
finish.
Snap savvy Do you prefer more ‘in-

the-moment’ shots or elegant, formal poses?
How do you feel about different effects, such
as sepia, black and white and soft-focus? Once
rather formal and predictable, contemporary
photographers now prefer to take a much
more flexible approach, resulting in images
that are far more intimate.
In the moment
Some of the best wedding
photographs of the bridal couple
as well as the guests are the
informal and relaxed shots,
when people might not even be
aware that there’s a camera
around.
TRENT SAUNDERS
Contemporary styles are not necessarily
suit your budget. for everyone, and couples are free to opt
• Limit the number of hours your for something more traditional. Putting the
photographer works by doing away with emphasis on black-and-white photography
the pre-ceremony shots and planning your will give your pictures a classic quality that
reception so that the important events take is similar in style to photographs from days
place during the first few hours. gone by, such as those that your parents or
• Order large prints for your wedding album grandparents may have had taken at their
and smaller sizes for your parents’ album. weddings.
• Keep the album as simple as possible.
• Find out whether the photographer will Reportage photography tends to be more
let you buy the negatives upfront, thereby informal and less posed, while a traditional
allowing you to make the prints yourself. style usually features formal line-ups of friends
Bear in mind though that while this may be and family, and tends to focus less on the
98
details of the day. Like many couples, you and
your fiancé might like to have a combination
of both reportage and family shots, so choose
a photographer who is skilled in both areas.
A mixture of colour and black and white
pictures is also a good idea, as the combined
styles will capture the shades of the flower
arrangements, outfits and decor.
Black and white photographs

are best for capturing intimate
moments between the bride and
groom, while colour works
well for an overall view of the
reception and details such as the
flowers or food.
Brush up on the terminology, tools and
techniques of the trade:
• FILM PHOTOGRAPHY – This refers to
traditional photography, using a conventional
camera
GEOFF GOLDSWAIN
• DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY – Images are
stored on a memory card, and are much
easier to manipulate than conventional
photographs
• SEPIA – A brown pigment giving a
photograph and aged, antique look
• CROSS-PROCESSING – A method of
emphasising the elements of colour and
contrast in an image
• BACKLIGHTING – This refers to light that
comes from behind the subject
• NATURAL LIGHTING – Natural lighting
in the form of outdoor sunlight, or light that
filters in through the window
• LOUPE – A small magnifying glass used to
view slides on a light table
• CROP – Trimming or editing a photograph
• CONTACT SHEET – Thumbnail-size shots
from a single roll of film printed on a sheet
• RETOUCH – To remove undesirable
elements such as blemishes from of an
image
• MATTE – Prints with a shine-free surface
• GLOSSY – Prints with a sheen
Question time Make a personal

visit to the photographer’s studio so that you
can get a good idea of their personality and
style. Don’t simply be content to have a look
at some samples either. It stands to reason
that every photographer is bound to have a
TAMMY HICKSON
100
DAVID WEEKS
few good photos out of hundreds. Ask to look

at an entire wedding album so that you can
assess his or her style and get an idea of how
talented and effective your candidate really is.
Don’t be afraid to ask the photographer

as many questions as you want. Find out
about their background and experience, how
long they have been working as a wedding
photographer and how many weddings they
have photographed.You could also ask what
makes their photos better than, or different to,
everyone else’s, and what they find particularly
inspirational about them a wedding.
You should also ask if he or she will do all the

photos and situations you have in mind, and
whether prints, an album, re-prints and CDs
are included in the cost.
ANAND GOVENDER
A shared vision Try to make
sure that you find a photographer who is
in synch with what you and your partner
want, and is able to realise your unique vision
for the day. For example, it wouldn’t be a
particularly good match if you wanted very
natural and candid photo-journalist type snaps,
while he or she felt more comfortable doing
portraits and traditional wedding photography.
Most importantly though, you should feel
comfortable and relaxed with him, and just
love his work!
You will also need to find out exactly what

is included in the package. Some studios set
an hourly or flat rate, with a separate charge
for any pictures you want, while others give
you a quote for a fee that includes a specified
number of prints. Many photographers offer a
several different packages and prices.
Key points to establish are whether travel

expenses before the ceremony and on the
day are included or extra, and how long he
or she will stay on at the reception. As some
photographers may delegate group and family
shots to an assistant, find out whether the
photographer you interviewed will be with
you throughout the day.
DAVID WEEKS
For additional peace of mind, check that your
photographer has a back-up plan should
102
he or she fall ill. Furthermore, are they
insured against equipment failure, loss of film,
damaged film and ill-health?
Photo opportunity
If you’ re getting married on
a Friday– or any day other
than a Saturday– you’ ll
be much more likely to get a
good deal with your chosen
photographer.
On the dotted line Now that
you’ve settled on a photographer, the next
order of business is to put down a deposit,
which usually amounts to about one-third
of the total fee. The contract needs to cover
essential information such as:
• The deposit paid and due date for the
remaining payments
GEOFF GOLDSWAIN
• The refund or cancellation policy
• Addresses where shots will be taken
• Start and finish times of the wedding
• Extra activities to be covered
• Any extra expenses to be paid, such as
travel costs
• The number of proofs and enlargements
included
The contract should also stipulate who owns

the negatives. Some photographers relinquish
them as part of the fee, while others may keep
them indefinitely or for a specified period.
TAMMY HICKSON JENNY GRINWIS

On location If your photographer
isn’t familiar with your wedding venue or any
of the other settings in which you would like
to be photographed, it is advisable for you to
visit those locations with him or her before
the wedding. They may find an interesting
backdrop or feature you have overlooked,
and will also be able to scope out the types
of shots and settings that are likely to be
most effective. If you’re getting married in the
morning, it’s best to have photographs taken
in the afternoon, when the quality of the light
will be more flattering.
Running order To make sure

that everything goes according to plan on
THE CLICK CREW the day, give your photographer a list of all
the important events to be covered, and do
the same for everyone who will be appearing
in the photographs. You could also give one
of your ushers the job of pointing out who’s
who to your photographer.
Practice makes perfect To

help you feel more relaxed on the day, a
trial run before your wedding is often well
ANAND GOVENDER
104
PAUL HENMAN
worth the additional effort. He might suggest

doing some shots of you and your fiancé
in his studio or in your home, in order to
assess your best angles. The bride could
even consider having a posed formal portrait
taken before the day of the wedding. Before
the big day, it’s a good idea to show your
photographer pictures of the wedding dress
and point out any particular elements that
you’d like him to focus on.
If you’ ve decided on formal

wedding shots, the photography
usually begins as you arrive at
the ceremony and ends with a
series of group portraits of you
and your families.
NEIL NORTHOVER
The look of love Personal

moments and close-ups could feature the
newlyweds talking to one another during
the meal, or looking into each other’s eyes
during their first dance, while the band plays
‘their’ song. Other meaningful moments to
capture on film could include items old, new,
borrowed or blue – for example, a pendant
belonging to your late grandmother.
All in the family If you’re

planning a lot of shots, or have a large family,
the formal group portraits could be time-
consuming, and you don’t want to keep your
guests waiting too long. Some brides specify
that group photographs and shots containing
children are taken first so they are free to join
the reception as soon as possible. As children
often take a little time to relax, consider
booking a clown or magician. This not only
keeps them entertained but allows for some
wonderful and spontaneous expressions.
Just the two of us It’s also wise

to arrange a private portrait session with the
photographer, perhaps before the reception,
when you still feel and look calm and cool!
The more intimate and candid portraits can
always be captured later on as the day unfolds.
Wreck the ‘ rok’ Consider a

‘trash-the-dress’ photo-session after all the
formal shots have been taken. But don’t
106
GEOFF GOLDSWAIN
worry, the dress doesn’t have to get wrecked

(unless you really want it to!), it will only look
that way. The motivation behind these shoots
is to have fun and do something a little more
informal and creative, without stressing about
getting the wedding gown a bit dirty.
Snap decisions About four to six

weeks after the wedding, your photographer
will send you images of your wedding
photographs. These proofs could either be
on a CD or in the form of prints, depending
RAY ROBERTS
on what you have agreed upon.You may
also be able to access the images online at a
password-protected website, which is also a
super-convenient way for family members to
order their own copies. Once ordered, the
prints will probably take about another six to
seven weeks.
Picture it
Instead of traditional thank-
you cards, make print-outs of
one of your favourite wedding
photos and write your special
message on the back of each one.
Creating an album Editing
is the easy part when it comes to creating
your album – just go for the pictures that
catch your eye and that you really love. Many
couples are opting for convenient smaller
albums that are easy to browse through and
keep close at hand. Avoid the temptation to
KAL DANNER feature too many images on one page, as this
will detract from the overall effect.
The picture of health While

it is up to your photographer to use the
appropriate lighting and setting to capture
your unique beauty, these top tricks of the
LESLEY COLE
108
beauty trade are guaranteed to enhance the
way you appear in photographs.
Let there be light While flash

photography will camouflage certain problem
areas by lightening them, making blemishes,
dark circles or redness less apparent, employ
these tricks of the trade to ensure that
you look your radiant best in photographs,
whatever the light source!
• The main thing to watch out for with
flash photography on hot days is shine and
reflection; carry a pressed-powder compact
or blotting papers with you, and use them to
minimise shine throughout the day or night.
• Use shimmery eye shadow and lip gloss
sparingly – shimmer can reflect back in
photos, showing any fine lines or making
your face look oily.
• Wearing colour on your face and cheeks is
important, as flash photography can diminish
skin colour because of the intensity of white
light, and you certainly don’t want your skin
to look washed out in photos.
• Any flaws in your skin will be more apparent
in natural light, which is why it is a good idea
to even out your skin tone with foundation.
• If some of your pictures are being taken
outdoors, put your makeup on in front of a
window so you won’t be too light- or heavy-
handed.
NEIL CUNINGHAME
110
UNPRECEDENTED PICTURES
Hold that pose Even things out Try to match

your foundation to your neck, which tends
It’s more flattering to pose with

to be lighter than your face, as a flash can
exaggerate the difference. Use loose powder
to set foundation, but make sure you don’t put
a hand on your hip, which both too much on; it can leave your skin looking
dull and dilute the colour of your blush. Just
defines your shape and slims the

before the formal photos, dust the T-zone area
(the forehead and nose) to reduce shine.
arms, than to have your arms Look into my eyes A

pressed against your body. combination of eye shadows in light, medium
and deep tones can help to define eyes
and make them stand out. Conversely, dark
NEIL CUNINGHAME IVOR HAMILTON
colours will make eyes look smaller in
pictures. Try these simple techniques:
• To make eyes stand out and even out any
discoloration on your lid, dust your eyelid
from lash line to brow bone with an eye
shadow that’s slightly lighter than your skin
tone.
• A medium-tone shadow in the crease,
applied with a fluffy tapered brush, adds
dimension.
• Line along the top lids with a dark eye
shadow and a soft taupe or brown for the
bottom; then dot the colour between lashes
instead of drawing a line.
• Create a dramatic effect by using mascara
HELEN WINFIELD
and individual false lashes.

• To brighten eyes, dab a shimmery shadow or
pencil on either the outer corner of the eye,
the inner corner, the brow bone, or on the
centre of the lid.
Colour cues A sweep of blush on

cheeks will give your skin a healthy glow in
photos. Use a blush or bronzer that’s close to
your natural skin colour to create definition.
Apply it lightly under your cheekbones and
on each side of the nose. Then put a brighter
112
GEOFF REDMAN
inside your natural lip line, not outside of

it. Fill in lips with liner, too, so lipstick won’t
wear off as quickly and the pencil outline
won’t show. Then apply lipstick and blend
with a dry, clean lip brush.
• Select sheer cream lipsticks rather than
matte, which can look flat and dry in
pictures.You’ll want a shade that provides
enough of a colour difference between your
lips and the skin around them. Avoid nude
hues, which may cause your lips to recede in
photos, as well as colours such as hot pinks
UNPRECEDENTED PICTURES and corals, which can look too bright.
• Lip gloss makes lips look fuller, but use it
pink or peach blush on the apples of your sparingly as it can reflect light and draw too
cheeks to give them a slight flush. Choose much attention to the mouth. Try accenting
sheer formulations so you don’t saturate your just the centre of your lips with a sheer
cheeks with too much colour. Go over the gloss that’s in the same colour range as your
whole area with a large, clean, fluffy brush to lipstick.
blend any lines between the two blushes.
As your hands and nails will also be on show,
For kissable lips, try these tips: remember that the best nail varnish colours
• Pick a lip liner that matches the pigment of are neutral, as they’ll make your fingers look
your lips for the softest look, and trace just longer and your hands more elegant.
T
videography
The Big
Picture
A video of your wedding is the best way to
ensure that you don’t miss out on the big
picture, from those unforgettable moments
between you and your groom, to other events
with your entourage and guests – and even
some behind-the-scenes happenings – that
you probably didn’t see on the day.
While a photograph captures

an instant in time, a video lets
you observe time in motion.
Let it roll Most of the time you BRUCE RODDA
won’t even be aware of the presence of the
videographer at your wedding, thanks to
the advent of smaller, more light-sensitive
cameras. This ability to melt into the
background has resulted in videographers
developing their own distinctive styles and
approaches, giving you more freedom of
choice than ever before.
Best director Start looking for

a videographer as soon as you can. Skilled
and experienced professionals are always
in demand, and their calendars fill up fast
– sometimes a year in advance. Visit websites
to get some idea of the approaches and styles
of various videographers, browse through a
local wedding publication like Future Bride and
ask recently married friends and relatives for
recommendations. Wedding consultants, party
planners and photographers are always a good
source of information, as is the manager of the
hotel or venue where you will be having your
reception.
Your next step is to short-list some

prospective candidates, and arrange to meet
Wedding Videography
them in person so that you can view their
work. Ask to watch an entire wedding video,
and not just clips of a range of weddings. Even
if you like what you see, ask the videographer
for names of his last three or four clients for
references.
If possible, try to see a video of a wedding

filmed at a similar location and time of day
114
DAVID WEEKS
that you have planned for your big day. For

example, if you are having a late afternoon
summer wedding at a country estate, see if it’s
possible to review his work in a similar light
and setting.
When it comes to reviewing videos, there are

some details to watch out for:
• Smooth and steady coverage, which is
reflected in the clarity of the images
• Good framing and composition, which is a
result of the right camera positions and
angles
• Whether the video tells a story or just
shows various isolated scenes and events
• Transitions from scene to scene should
blend in smoothly.
• Check whether the lighting is adequate; for
example, backlit windows shouldn’t affect
other tones
• The sound quality, and whether it was
chopped, too loud or distorted
• Note how classic shots are handled, such
as the moment the bride arrives in church
together with the view down the aisle
towards the altar
GEOFF GOLDSWAIN
DAVID WEEKS
of your video.You will often find that a

videographer uses both black and white and
colour, and most of them can lay a soundtrack
over appropriate parts of the footage. You
also have a range of special effects at your
disposal, if you so choose: fade-outs and
fade-ins, animated images and graphic titles
can be edited in, as well as baby pictures and
honeymoon scenes.
Be prepared Keep the Girl Guides’

motto in mind before the big day and ‘be
prepared’. Provide your videographer with a
schedule of events in advance, and have
someone at the wedding point out who’s who
to him – you certainly won’t have time to
Calling the shots Before deciding

worry about those sorts of details on the day.
The edited version

on a videographer, remember to ask them
questions such as whether they offer packages Some
and, if so, what these include. Do they have an wedding videos take months to complete, so
assistant to help them on the day, and backup when you sign your contract, make sure you
equipment should anything go wrong? Will have an idea of when you can expect to see
they use one or two cameras? If you’re dealing the finished product.
with a studio, be sure to indicate in your
contract the specific person you want to Find out exactly what you’re getting, and
shoot your wedding. whether you’ll have any say in the editing
stages. Ask whether you will receive only the
Tech savvy
edited copy of the wedding video or if your
Your videographer’s skills videographer will also supply the raw footage,
and the type of equipment he uses will have which is all the material shot during the
a dramatic effect on the quality and outcome course of the day.
116
D
honeymoons
Dream
Destinations
The big day is over – as well as the seemingly
endless whirl of planning, partying and last-
minute panicking! Take some time out to enjoy
a well-earned break at your dream destination KAL DANNER
and celebrate the beginning of a new life

together as husband and wife.
Home and away Scouting out

your ideal destination begins with lots of
research. Go online and check out resorts
and package deals, spend some time browsing
through travel books and magazines, and visit
your local travel agent for some of the latest
brochures. As a general rule, the more remote
the location, the more time and energy it will
take to plan the trip.
Think about the type of honeymoon

experience that would suit you best. Do
you want to go sightseeing and shopping in
New York, Paris or London, relax on a beach
in Mauritius or Zanzibar, or discovering an
ancient culture in Egypt or Greece? If you’re
the adventurous sort, what about exploring
the Okavango, taking a tented safari in the
African bush, or going white water rafting
down the Zambezi?
Beat the credit crunch and choose a budget-

wise local destination, with scenic resorts and
accommodation options every bit as good
as those to be found overseas – try Tiffindell
instead of the Swiss Alps, Sodwana instead of
the Seychelles, or a world-beating and ultra-
luxurious ‘Out of Africa’ experience at one of
the province’s exclusive game lodges.
Paperwork Taking care of the finer

details will ensure that your trip goes as
smoothly as possible. About a month before
you leave, check that you have all the
documentation needed, such as visas,
vaccination certificates, travellers’ cheques and
sufficient cash in the currency of your
destination. Make copies of all paperwork
relating to your trip, including written
confirmations, travellers’ cheque and credit-
card numbers, and a list of your important and
emergency phone numbers. Take two sets
with you (one in the hand luggage and the
other in your checked baggage) and leave the
originals with a good friend or family member.
FAIRYTALE PHOTOGRAPHY
One of the most valuable honeymoon tips is

not to go into debt to finance your vacation
– work out what you have, or what you’re
able to save by that date, and start planning
from there.
If you’ re getting married

in-season, when flights and
destinations are at their most
expensive, consider taking a
mini-moon and waiting till
the low season for your main
honeymoon.
Packing light Whether you’re
heading for a sub-tropical beach or a winter
resort, packing light is the key. Don’t over-
pack – especially not clothes or shoes
you’ve never worn before – rather plan your
wardrobe around one or two basic colours
and key coordinates, so it’s easy to add colour
and contrast in the form of accessories. Stock
up on trial sizes of toiletries, or transfer your
favourite products into refillable plastic bottles.
CELTIC BLU PHOTOGRAPHY
118
S
legal advice
Signed &
Sealed
Consult an experienced attorney at least
three months before your wedding to discuss
your marriage contract as well as insurance
policies and wills.
Marriage is governed by the South African

matrimonial property system, which contains
three basic types of marriage contracts:
In community of property
This regime applies ‘by default’. All the assets
and liabilities of a couple, whether acquired ANAND GOVENDER
before or during the marriage, fall into one
joint estate. Both partners have equal powers duration of the marriage, these and all other
of administration. Should the couple divorce,
assets purchased by the respective spouses
each partner will be able to claim half the
remain their own property, with husband
assets in their joint estate. However, if one
and wife each being able to handle their own
partner goes into debt, creditors can lay claim
to your combined assets. estates as they think best.
• WITH ACCRUAL – Contracts entered into
with the accrual system allow husband and
Out of community of wife to retain separate estates during the
property In this system, both parties are marriage. In the event of death or divorce,
the net increase in the value of each partner’s
required to enter into an antenuptial contract
before the wedding, which must be signed estate is calculated and that increase is
by both bride and groom. When drawing up divided equally. Only the profits accumulated
the contract, each party lists his/her assets, during the marriage are shared, while debts
recording the accumulated value. For the are not. This is usually considered to be the
most beneficial option as it offers the sharing
LIONEL PETERS - INSTYLE WEDDINGS
benefits of an out of community of property
agreement combined with the protection of
the in community system.
• WITHOUT ACCRUAL – The sole difference
in a marriage without the accrual system is
that the estates remain completely separate
during and after the marriage.
T
front cover finalists
The
TopTen
Here are this year’s top ten Front Cover Competition finalists,
who were chosen from more than a hundred photographs
submitted by the photographers featured in Future Bride. The
selection was made by an experienced panel of five judges from
the photography, media, fashion, marketing and advertising
industries. The winning photograph, which was taken by Stuart
Dods, appears on the front cover as well as this page, together
with the second to tenth placed finalists. 1st - Stuart Dods
2nd - Carmen Roberts 3rd - Trent Saunders Tie 4th - Kal Danner
Tie 4th - Cholwich Photography 6th - Tammy Hickson 7th - Lara Baker
8th - David Weeks 9th - Lionel Peters, InStyle Weddings 10th - Gorgeous Day
11th - Lionel Peters, InStyle Weddings, 12th - Cholwich Photography, 13th - Geoff Redman, 14th - Ray Roberts, 15th - David Rees
Judges: Greg Wallis, Karen Griffiths, Ivan Govender, Pierre Tostee, Helet Boschoff
122
C
classifieds
Classifieds
( ) DENOTES PAGE NUMBER ON WHICH THE ADVERT APPEARS
Accommodation Jasmins Bridal (45) ................... 031 306 3582

Jenny G Bride (49) .................... 031 765 1778
Albany Hotel (76) ...................... 031 304 4381
Kim Atkins (48) ......................... 071 926 2358
Banghoek Lodge (71) ............... 035 573 1302
Koobsurat Collection (54) ......... 031 764 4455
Bayala Game Lodge (71) .......... 035 562 0498 Food Matters (88) ..................... 082 331 5969
Les Femmes (49) ...................... 033 394 1123
Blue Waters Hotel (74) .............. 031 327 7000 Fruit Cakes 4 U (90) .................. 083 235 0592
Pink Chilly Bride (51) ................ 083 793 6463
Bonamanzi Game Park (67) ...... 035 562 0181 Heather’s Cakes (89) ................ 031 708 3184
Red Oliv Studios (54) ................ 031 811 5498
Braeside (62) ............................ 032 947 0784 Sameer’s Caterers (90) ............. 031 507 2534
Collisheen Estate (59) ............... 032 947 0198 Sugar and Spice (90) ................ 072 407 7477
Cranford Country Lodge (76).... 033 330 2182 Tam Tam Confectionery (91) ..... 083 656 3584
Esiweni Lodge (118) ................. 036 636 9002 The Cupcake Café (91) ............. 031 765 6440
Falcon Crest (68) ...................... 031 765 5300 The Little Chapel (66) ............... 031 708 3316
Ghost Mountain Inn (66) ........... 035 573 1025 Vanilla Chantilly (91).................. 031 312 2937
Grand Manor Gardens (58) ....... 032 945 4671 Vanille (89) ................................ 031 717 2780
iNsingizi Lodge (61) .................. 031 781 1767
Kings Grant (72)........................ 039 834 2730 Ceremonies
Makaranga (69) ......................... 031 764 6616 C Moir t/a Dance School (19) ... 031 201 1136
Clive Jacobson (19) .................. 031 261 1638
Montello Safari Lodge (77) ....... 033 413 3334
Duncan Comrie (20).................. 082 568 7255
Salt Rock Hotel (62).................. 032 525 5025
Pathfinder Ministries (20) .......... 073 155 2563
Sica’s Guest House (56) ........... 031 261 2768
Rev A J Haasbroek (19) ............ 082 921 6475
Tala (122, cover) ....................... 031 781 8000
Rev Colin Andrews (19) ............ 031 708 6014
The Boathouse (70) .................. 032 946 0300
Rev Neville Shaw (19) ............... 031 708 1666
The Oyster Box (73) .................. 031 514 5000
The Vineyard on Ballito (118) .... 032 946 1204
Thornridge Farm (69) ................ 031 782 3246
Coordinators
A2-Z Wedding Planners (9)....... 031 201 9644
Umngazi River (117) ............... 047 564 1115
Blacktie and Butterflies (15) ..... 071 139 9122
LARA BAKER
Candles and Décor (17) ............ 033 345 1936
Creative Concepts (13) ............. 031 266 6667
D-vine Events (14) .................... 083 236 0946
Designer Décor (1) .................... 031 764 1898
Elegant Events (13) ................... 031 563 7719
Extraordinary Weddings (15) .... 082 747 9738
Function Flair (11) ..................... 083 676 1376
Functions for Africa (12) ........... 031 205 2211
Instyle Lifestyle Events (16) ... 031 209 1836
Just Jade (15) ........................... 083 262 2200
TYRONE CROSSMAN Lemontree Concepts (5) ........... 031 569 5563
Little Black Dress (14) ............... 084 517 0708
Shona’s (47) .............................. 031 709 0712
Sposabella (44) ......................... 031 312 0321 Orange Petal (14) ...................... 083 381 1097
The Wedding Box (45) .............. 031 764 5142 Planned to Perfection (81) ........ 031 764 2416
Tiaras by Diane (47) .................. 084 626 0604 Status Productions (7) .............. 032 946 2391
VIP Brides (54) .......................... 031 765 1446 Talloula (87) ............................... 031 205 0706
Wantashi (50) ............................ 031 566 2656 JENNY GRINWIS
Catering
Arriba Chocolates (89) .............. 031 312 4059
GEOFF GOLDSWAIN
Bridal Wear
Angelique Bridal Boutique (51) .. 031 202 2931
Belle’s of Hilton (53) .................. 033 343 1382
Bridal Mall 52)........................... 031 563 2548
By Ligita (48) ............................. 079 303 8222
Carita Bridalwear (49) ............... 084 853 3911
Elizabeth Saunders (46) ............ 083 557 7912
Fabric World (46) ...................... 031 201 3903
Fabulous Bride (48) .................. 031 561 5165
Glamour Hire (48) ..................... 031 303 9327 Cakes Etc (90) .......................... 031 400 4121
Gorgeous Gowns (47)............... 072 126 3539 Cakes Unlimited (91) ................ 033 342 6055
Heavenly Brides (52)................. 033 342 2178 Cynthia Frost (89) ..................... 031 811 5807
The Business Zone (17) ............ 073 222 7694
The House (10) ......................... 031 312 2019
Wellspring (17) .......................... 083 287 1296
Entertainment
HEATHER FITCHET
CREATIVE BEADS
Grooms Wear
Angelique Bridal Boutique (51) .. 031 202 2931
Debonair Suit Hire (40) ............. 031 701 0764
Lord Louis Suit Hire (41) ........... 031 304 4835
Suit Yourself (40)....................... 031 564 2188

Wantashi (50) ............................ 031 566 2656
LORI CAELERS
Flowers
Boston Ivy Flowers (85) ............ 031 563 5173
East Coast Entertainment (92) .. 031 469 1475 Creative Concepts (13) ............. 031 266 6667
Entertainment Today (92).......... 031 462 0499 D-vine Events (14) .................... 083 236 0946
Designer Décor (1) .................... 031 764 1898
Elizabeth’s Florist (86)............... 031 572 4310
Flora Flowers (84) ..................... 031 208 7095 GORGEOUS DAY
Function Flair (11) ..................... 083 676 1376
Functions for Africa (12) ........... 031 205 2211 Health & Beauty
Lemontree Concepts (5) ........... 031 569 5563 Andrew Hendry (30) .................. 033 347 2189
Magic Moments (85) ................. 031 202 2312 Angel Faces (29) ....................... 031 262 1425
Art of Make-up (32) .................. 083 384 7460
Occasions (87) .......................... 082 468 3121
Beauty Tonic (36) ...................... 031 765 3186
Orange Petal (14) ...................... 083 381 1097
Beauty Within (27) .................... 031 303 1993
Petal Mania (85) ........................ 076 872 7734
Bronwyn-Louise (28) ................ 082 484 4704
Peters Florists (86) .................... 031 309 3541
Charlotte Professional (28) ....... 031 763 4375
Creative Upstyles (34) .............. 031 563 7097
Music Man (93) ......................... 031 201 1175 D2 Squared Hairdressing (37) ... 031 701 7191
Silverback Productions (92)...... 083 781 5554
JORDAN SHEARES
Soundwaves (93) ...................... 031 464 5893
Status Productions (7) .............. 032 946 2391
Sue Harding’s Flowers (84)....... 031 563 9259

Sunflowers Florist (86) .............. 031 562 8831
Sweet P (87) ............................. 031 562 0582
Talloula (87) ............................... 031 205 0706
The Little Chapel (66) ............... 031 708 3316
Topjocks (93) ............................ 031 266 0878

Trilogy Mobile Disco (93) .......... 083 778 5719
Gifts
Bellezza Accessories (83) ......... 072 270 0835
Creative Beads (2) .................... 031 561 4776
Favours Elegant Events (13) ................... 031 563 7719
Bellezza Accessories (83) ......... 072 270 0835 Home etc (25) ........................... 032 946 2315
Tracey’s Sandblasting (83)........ 031 916 1905 The Gift Collection (25) ............. 033 347 0493
124
Emma Norris (38) ...................... 083 575 4197 Salt Rock Hotel (62).................. 032 525 5025
Eye Candy (30) ......................... 031 767 1792 Sani Valley Lodge (117) ............ 033 702 0203
House of Zeenel (32) ................ 031 566 1923 Sica’s Guest House (56) ........... 031 261 2768
Kerry-Lee (27) ........................... 031 765 4290 Starlight Cruises (118) .............. 031 303 3572
Lindsay Nixon (38) .................... 031 312 2114 Tala (122, cover) ....................... 031 781 8000
Lu-Rita’s (37) ............................ 031 763 3652 The Boathouse (70) .................. 032 946 0300
Maharani Hair Stylists (29)........ 031 337 8865 The Oyster Box (73) .................. 031 514 5000
Make Me Over (37) ................... 083 303 2611 The Vineyard on Ballito (118) .... 032 946 1204
Make-Up Your Mind (26) .......... 031 312 2019 Thornridge Farm (69) ................ 031 782 3246
Moi Day Spa (27) ...................... 031 767 4076 Umngazi River (117) ............... 047 564 1115
Naturally Nails (34).................... 082 565 9916
Nefrit Day Spa (39) ................... 031 205 0040 Internet
Palm Boulevard (29) ................. 031 566 6936 www.futurebride.co.za (18)
Pamper Rooms (31).................. 031 266 2805
Red Oliv Studios (54) ................ 031 811 5498
Roslyn Faber (31) ..................... 032 946 1784
Sajavat By Nita (38) .................. 082 772 3226
Salon Sharona (35) ................... 031 507 4698
Sandi Vincent (32)..................... 082 323 4456 Lemontree Concepts (5) ........... 031 569 5563
Senses Day Spa (31) ................ 033 345 0511 Magic Lighting (120) ................. 031 462 9473
Serendipity (33)......................... 031 709 0369
Stunning Looks (30).................. 074 153 6483
The Butterfly Studio (31) ........... 031 201 8622
Uniquely U (37) ......................... 032 946 3314
Westville Health and Skincare Clinic (36) .......
.................................................. 031 266 0281
NWJ
Hiring & Décor Jewellery

Creative Beads (2) .................... 031 561 4776
Bellezza Accessories (83) ......... 072 270 0835
JI Jewellers (4) .......................... 082 554 5464
Candles and Décor (17) ............ 033 345 1936
NWJ (3) ..................................... 031 570 5000
Candles and More (80) ............. 031 903 2182
Salon Sharona (35) ................... 031 507 4698
Centre Piece Hire (80)............... 031 312 3042
Tiaras by Diane (47) .................. 084 626 0604
Vijay Shah Jewellers (4) ............ 031 564 2948
Legal Advice
Livingston Leandy (119) ........... 031 327 4000
Nomadik Tents (82) ................... 031 264 1715 Make-up Artists

Orange Petal (14) ...................... 083 381 1097 Angel Faces (29) ....................... 031 262 1425
Party Design (80) ...................... 031 765 1602 Beauty Tonic (36) ...................... 031 765 3186
Party Themes Classic (82) ........ 031 577 0202 Bronwyn-Louise (28) ................ 082 484 4704
Planned to Perfection (81) ........ 031 764 2416 Charlotte Professional (28) ....... 031 763 4375
Sameer’s Caterers (90) ............. 031 507 2534 Emma Norris (38) ...................... 083 575 4197
Settings (79) ............................. 031 701 6391 Eye Candy (30) ......................... 031 767 1792
Status Productions (7) .............. 032 946 2391 House of Zeenel (32) ................ 031 566 1923
Classy Candle Hire (81) ............ 031 573 1505 Kerry-Lee (27) ........................... 031 765 4290
Talloula (87) ............................... 031 205 0706
Creative Concepts (13) ............. 031 266 6667 Lindsay Nixon (38) .................... 031 312 2114
Tracey’s Sandblasting (83)........ 031 916 1905
D-vine Events (14) .................... 083 236 0946 Make Me Over (37) ................... 083 303 2611
Wings of White (80) .................. 082 561 9823
Designer Décor (1) .................... 031 764 1898 Make-Up Your Mind (26) .......... 031 312 2019
Elizabeth’s Florist (79)............... 031 572 4310
Function Flair (11) ..................... 083 676 1376
Honeymoons Palm Boulevard (29) ................. 031 566 6936
Pamper Rooms (31).................. 031 266 2805
Albany Hotel (76) ...................... 031 304 4381
Functions for Africa (12) ........... 031 205 2211
Banghoek Lodge (71) ............... 035 573 1302
TRENT SAUNDERS
Bonamanzi Game Park (67) ...... 035 562 0181
Braeside (62) ............................ 032 947 0784
Esiweni Lodge (118) ................. 036 636 9002
Falcon Crest (68) ...................... 031 765 5300
Ghost Mountain Inn (66) ........... 035 573 1025
Greensleeves (60) ..................... 031 765 9400
Illovo Africa Lodge (61) ............. 031 903 6594
iNsingizi Lodge (61) .................. 031 781 1767
Izotsha Creek (60)..................... 039 685 0037
Makaranga (69) ......................... 031 764 6616
Roslyn Faber (31) ..................... 032 946 1784

Sajavat by Nita (38) .................. 082 772 3226
Salon Sharona (35) ................... 031 507 4698
Stunning Looks (30).................. 074 153 6483
The Butterfly Studio (31) ........... 031 201 8622
Westville Health and Skincare Clinic (36) ....... Tyrone Crossman (99) ............... 082 710 4117
.................................................. 031 266 0281 Unprecedented Pictures (111) .. 076 852 6423
Photography Stationery
Affordable Photography (105) ... 084 866 8567 A Paper Affair (21) .................... 031 202 7552
Alessandro Bramuzzo (95)........ 031 701 3608 By Design (24) .......................... 031 202 3195
Anwen Evans (107) ................... 031 764 0090 By Invitation (21) ....................... 082 875 5551
Avance Photography (110) ....... 039 315 1863 Crystal Print (21) ....................... 031 209 4464
Bruce Read (110) ...................... 084 222 1000 El-El Designs (24) ..................... 084 511 4207
Bruce Rodda (105) ................... 083 272 3293 Elegant Events (13) ................... 031 563 7719
Carmen Roberts (101) .............. 084 514 5230 Ganasen Press (22) .................. 031 201 0610
Celtic Blu Photography (111) ... 083 345 6288 I Do (23) .................................... 082 494 4373
Cholwich Photography (99) ...... 083 274 3722 Ingrid Lotter Calligrapher (23) ... 031 564 6328
Colourchrome (109) .................. 031 303 8405 Rona (22) .................................. 082 372 1242
Daena Chanel (108) .................. 082 435 5138 Save the Date (23) .................... 083 393 9730
David Rees (103) ...................... 083 777 7071 The Printhouse (24) .................. 031 764 5666
David Weeks (102) .................... 031 765 4443 Very Inviting (21) ....................... 031 312 7582
Dean Demos Photography (103) ....................
.................................................. 031 763 5526
Epic Studio Productions (106) .. 083 407 4450
THE CLICK CREW
Banghoek Lodge (71) ............... 035 573 1302

Bayala Game Lodge (71) .......... 035 562 0498
Bella Vista (57) .......................... 031 765 2738
Blue Waters Hotel (74) .............. 031 327 7000
Bonamanzi Game Park (67) ...... 035 562 0181
Braeside (62) ............................ 032 947 0784
Coedmore Castle (66)............... 031 469 8811
Collisheen Estate (59) ............... 032 947 0198
Cranford Country Lodge (76).... 033 330 2182
Eden Lassie (78) ....................... 083 552 9134
Falcon Crest (68) ...................... 031 765 5300
Ghost Mountain Inn (66) ........... 035 573 1025
Fairytale Photos (106) ............... 072 391 4475 Gold Circle Racing (67)............. 031 314 1658
Geoff Goldswain (104, cover) ... 031 266 4428 Grand Manor Gardens (58) ....... 032 945 4671
Geoff Redman (113) ................. 083 564 3088 Greensleeves (60) ..................... 031 765 9400
Gorgeous Day (97) .................... 031 462 4094 Hartford House (72) .................. 033 263 2713
Graham Carruthers (105) .......... 031 564 0787 Illovo Africa Lodge (61) ............. 031 903 6594
Heather Fitchet (99) .................. 084 583 2957 iNsingizi Lodge (61) .................. 031 781 1767
Helen Winfield (112).................. 084 688 8356 O’TOOLE PHOTOGRAPHY Izotsha Creek (60)..................... 039 685 0037
Instyle Weddings (100) ............. 082 471 3434 Kearsney Manor (64) ................ 032 552 8100
Ivor Hamilton (95) ..................... 083 272 0726 Transport Kings Grant (72)........................ 039 834 2730
Jenny Grinwis (112) .................. 082 376 0424 Kloof Country Club (65) ............ 031 764 0555
Kal Danner (109) ....................... 076 316 4575 Makaranga (69) ......................... 031 764 6616
Lara Baker (94) ......................... 083 771 4242 Montello Safari Lodge (77) ....... 033 413 3334
Leo Video Productions (115) .... 031 705 2545 Old Balgowan (78) .................... 033 234 4622
Lesley Cole (97) ........................ 082 422 4199 Pecanwood (60)........................ 033 330 2206
Lori C (106) ............................... 031 765 5072 Praia Do Sol (74) ....................... 082 570 4300
Louis Kleynhans (108) .............. 083 564 0814 Providence (62)......................... 033 266 6187
Neil Cuninghame (110) ............. 083 638 8934 Quarters Hotel (76) ................... 031 303 5246
Neil Northover (97).................... 031 765 2658 Salt Rock Hotel (62).................. 032 525 5025
O’Toole Photography (101) ....... 032 525 8432 Sica’s Guest House (56) ........... 031 261 2768
Paul Henman (96) ..................... 083 440 8471 Stonehaven Castle (68) ............ 031 769 1010
Tala (122, cover) ....................... 031 781 8000
Pro-Marc (115).......................... 082 654 5266
Tanglewood (74) ....................... 033 234 4366
Ray Roberts (107) ..................... 031 563 9468
Champagne Wedding Carriages (55) ............. The Boathouse (70) .................. 032 946 0300
.................................................. 033 266 6075 The Little Chapel (66) ............... 031 708 3316
The Oyster Box (73) .................. 031 514 5000
Thornridge Farm (69) ................ 031 782 3246
Three Cities (75)........................ 031 310 6900
uShaka Marine World (63) ........ 031 328 8000
Videography
Affordable Photography (105) ... 084 866 8567
Photographers André Rainden (115) ................. 031 705 4290
Durban Wedding Productions (116) ...............
031 312 7753 ................................................... 031 262 9581
www.rodbathfield.co.za Instyle Weddings (100) ............. 082 471 3434
Karen Le Grange (114) ............. 082 438 5089
Rosewood Photography (112) .. 082 828 5171 Leo Video Productions (115) .... 031 705 2545
Stuart Dods (96) ....................... 083 789 5283 Heritage Carriages (55)............. 031 765 8045 Lifetime Media Solutions (116).. 031 312 4957
Tammy Hickson (101) ............... 031 767 3232 Homejames (55) ....................... 082 300 8387 Nicki Haywood (115) ................ 031 202 1453
Tandi Ciaglia (95) ...................... 083 234 7417 London Taxi Hire (55) ................ 083 656 1142 Pro-Marc (115).......................... 082 654 5266
The Click Crew (104) ................ 031 273 1000 Rand Video (114) ...................... 031 562 8849
The Image Factor (cover) ......... 031 332 0670 Venues Ray Roberts (107) ..................... 031 563 9468
The Studio Photography (106) .. 072 455 5905 Albany Hotel (76) ...................... 031 304 4381 Tandi Ciaglia (95) ...................... 083 234 7417
Trent Saunders (98) .................. 083 310 9763 Ascot Conference Centre (71) .. 033 386 0801 Videoccasions (116) ................. 031 700 8837
126
C
calendar
Calendar
GEOFF GOLDSWAIN
MARCH 2010 APRIL 2010 MAY 2010

S M T W T F S S M T W T F S S M T W T F S
1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 30 31 1
7 8 9 10 11 12 13 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
14 15 16 17 18 19 20 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 9 10 11 12 13 14 15
21 22 23 24 25 26 27 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 16 17 18 19 20 21 22
28 29 30 31 25 26 27 28 29 30 23 24 25 26 27 28 29
JUNE 2010 JULY 2010 AUGUST 2010
1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
6 7 8 9 10 11 12 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 8 9 10 11 12 13 14
13 14 15 16 17 18 19 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 15 16 17 18 19 20 21
20 21 22 23 24 25 26 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 22 23 24 25 26 27 28
27 28 29 30 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 29 30 31
SEPTEMBER 2010 OCTOBER 2010 NOVEMBER 2010
1 2 3 4 31 1 2 1 2 3 4 5 6
5 6 7 8 9 10 11 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 7 8 9 10 11 12 13
12 13 14 15 16 17 18 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 14 15 16 17 18 19 20
19 20 21 22 23 24 25 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 21 22 23 24 25 26 27
26 27 28 29 30 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 28 29 30
DECEMBER 2010 JANUARY 2011 FEBRUARY 2011
1 2 3 4 30 31 1 1 2 3 4 5
5 6 7 8 9 10 11 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
12 13 14 15 16 17 18 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 13 14 15 16 17 18 19
19 20 21 22 23 24 25 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 20 21 22 23 24 25 26
26 27 28 29 30 31 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 27 28
T
notes
Things to
Remember
KAL DANNER
128

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A girl’s best friend Diamonds

gems like sapphires, rubies, emeralds and

Precious choices The value of a

The final cut Don’t confuse the

Rock chic Popular ring styles have

The real deal While online

Consider buying your diamond ﬁrst to

The wedding band is traditionally worn

Consult the calendar

Seize the day

Nine months One month

Six months Two weeks

have a say in. reserve or beach. Will the ceremony be in a

Visit a wedding show to get a sense of what’s

Where do you begin? Even if you’ve set a

Supply and demand

The best of both worlds Not

FUNCTIONS FOR AFRICA

Some brides like to hire a consultant as soon

Style file You and your ﬁancé also

The search is on When you’re amount is based on – a percentage of the

The feeling’s mutual

Functioning with flair A

The action plan

LITTLE BLACK DRESS

If the wedding is outdoors, you need to check

This is where help from a hiring company

Something borrowed In Hire power

helping with table seating, place cards and

guests for photos. IVOR HAMILTON

Web wisdom Local brides need

Something old The need to

Proudly South African

DEAN DEMOS PHOTOGRAPHY

Go East The Hindu tradition

The type of wedding you choose African dream Guidance and

you have come from, your proud

Free to choose Times have changed, ANAND GOVENDER

as well as attitudes towards relationships, and

Into the West Originating

Although most Jewish marriages take place

Just your type Wedding stationery

Save-the-date invitations include cards, fridge

Save-the-date invitations are

formal or informal – should communicate

Arty invites Begin by choosing a

Colourful creations While

Paperwork Brides are also spoilt for

Announce it! The invitation should

as simply as possible. In addition to giving

Usually wording reﬂects who is hosting the

request the honour of your presence 031 564 6328

Essential inserts The invitation

Some couples are opting to do away with the

Additional inserts could include information

Finding a printer Select a

this clear in your invitation

a token of appreciation for their help.

In store Department or specialist

To determine what you’ll need, ﬁrst compile a

Try to include a wide variety of items on your

Bridal showers These encompass