Marriage Meander KwaZulu Natal 2018_19

1 0 Y E A R A N N I V E R S A RY E D I T I O N

Y O U R

W E D D I N G

P L A N N I N G

J O U R N E Y

TASTES

CATERING & CAKES

CONTENTS

LOCATION

Catering for your wedding

53

CHC Catering

54

Eat with Love

55

23

The Farmer’s Daughter

55

Fordoun

24

Choosing your cake

56

Finding your wedding venue

17

MIDLANDS VENUES

OFF TO A GREAT START

Crystal Barn

WEDDING PLANNING Marriage Meander Journeys

5

The Hilton Bush Lodge

25

Roz’s Beautiful Cakes

57

Biggest mistakes when planning

7

Wingrove Valley

25

The Frost Goddess

57

Our Wedding Website

8

Calderwood Hall

26

Cake inspiration

58

The Bridal Gallery

8

Lythwood Lodge

27

Bridal & Beauty Show

9

Netherwood

28

Champagne Carriages

9

JUST WRITE

Granny Mouse

29

WEDDING STATIONERY

Pre-marital preparation

10

Waterwoods

30

Wedding stationery items

61

Michelle Van As

10

Mount Shekinah

30

Fuchsia Fine Event Stationery

65

Dates to Diarise

11

Protea Hotel Hilton

31

Creative Laser Studio

65

The Wedding Expo

11

St Ives

31

The Invitation Selection

65

TALA VALLEY VENUES

I DO

Sweet Home

34

LEGAL & CEREMONY

ALL MADE UP

iNsingizi

34

HAIR & MAKE-UP

Planning your ceremony

13

Gwahumbe Game & Spa

35

A flawless finish

67

Dream Ceremonies

13

Eden Lassie

36

Kiss & Make-up

67

#legally speaking

14

68

J Leslie Smith & Company Inc

14

Tala Collection Private Game Reserve

Blush Pro Make-up Agency Bridal hair tips

69

Common law marriage in SA

15

UPPER HIGHWAY VENUES

Solé

69

Benita Ardenbaum Family Law

15

Talloula

40

Hitched Hair and makeup

69

Makaranga

41

Intaba View

42

The duBoirs

42

WEDDING ATTIRE

Venue checklist

43

Wedding dress shopping

71

Belle & Bravado

72

Bella Bride

73

Meliza Mary Bridal Wear

74

37

DRAKENSBERG VENUES

Dean Demos

ALL DRESSED UP

Gooderson Drakensberg Gardens

46

Premier Resort Sani Pass

47

Elré Attire Designs

75

Destination weddings

48

Luv n' Lace

76

Cathedral Peak Wine Estate

49

The gallant groom

78

Wits End

49

Belle & Bravado Suits

79

VENUE INFO TABLE

50

Debonair Suit Hire

79

SETTING THE SCENE

SIGHTS

DÉCOR & FLOWERS

VIDEOGRAPHY

Hot décor trends

81

The value of video

98

Midlands Style Events

82

Muirhead’s Hiring

84

Beyond Measure Signature Film & Photo

99

Floral design

85

Videoccasions

99

Natural Nostalgia

87

Brand New Day

100

African Child Events

88

DVD Video Productions

100

Laurie Kohrs

88

ETC Events

89

SOUNDS

Petals Fine Flowers

89

MUSIC

SIGHTS

PHOTOGRAPHY

Tips for a great wedding reception

103

The Wedding DJ

103

Finding the right photographer

91

DJ Worx

104

David Weeks Photographic

93

Soundsensation

104

Sean Baker Photography

93

Popular first dance songs

105

Dean Demos Photography

94

5th Season Music

106

Neville Nixon Photography

94

René Tshiakanyi

106

Timing your wedding

95

Wild Olive Photography

96

JUST THE TWO OF US

Saysha Baker Photography

96

HONEYMOONS

Darrel Collins Photography

97

Top tips for your honeymoon

108

Sani Valley Nature Lodges

109

Umngazi River Bungalows & Spa

110

Leopard Walk Lodge

111

Bonamanzi

112

The Selfie Mirror

101

Dean Demos

FROM THE EDITOR Dear Bride and Groom-to-be Congratulations on your engagement. There’s so much you will be looking forward to and there will also be a fair amount of trepidation as you anticipate your wedding day. A lot of preparation needs to take place not only for the event but also for your married life because saying “I Do” doesn’t mean ‘you can’.

Throughout this 10th-anniversary edition, you’ll find 10 top tips from trusted service providers to help you prepare for your big day. Connecting with the right people is key to a successful wedding and so we have made a conscious decision to get to know the stars in the industry. We believe that the people and companies within these pages will not only inspire you but provide the ‘how-tos’ and resources so that your unique dream wedding will be attainable. The “No regrets” quotes introducing each section are little gems from those who have walked the aisle before you.

Our commitment to helping you prepare for your wedding goes beyond this book, so be sure to download the WedPlan App and use our Website to find more tips, tools and contacts. Our fabulous Marriage Meander Journey is an absolute must for every couple. It is the single most useful day to advance your wedding plans wisely and easily (and it’s so affordable!)

Although you can’t determine your future, you can decide on your habits and your habits will determine your future, so as you plan together for your wedding, put some habits in place that will help prepare for a successful marriage. At a recent wedding, I observed happily married couples wishing the newlyweds well for their future and was curious to know what older couples attributed to their successful marriage. From subsequent research, I compiled a list of the top ten habits or behaviours that result in a happy marriage:

1. Always have a vision of what you’d like your marriage to look like in 5 years.

2. Be authentic and communicate openly with each other.

3. Support each other and endure in times of challenge.

4. Walk in spiritual unity and you’ll overcome the giants.

5. Respect each other and never criticise in public.

6. Manage your money – give first, then save and live on the rest. Stay out of debt.

7. Do as many things together as you can – have fun and live without regrets.

8. Clear conflict before you go to sleep. Be willing to forgive.

9. Remain pure – sexual exclusivity results in intimacy.

10. Realise that love is a choice. Choose to love your husband/wife every day.

The value of this advice to prepare for your wedding, as well as your marriage, will come not from reading or hearing what needs to be done, but by doing it. So listen to the advice given by the experts in the industry and couples who have been on the journey longer – they are there to help you. If you are serious about living a happy life together, then cut out these ten habits and refer to them often. They will make all the difference. I wish you all the best as you plan your wedding and prepare for married life.

Love, Nikki

3

Saysha Baker

PUBLISHERS

Marriage Meander Co Managing Member: Nikki Sinclair nikki@marriagemeander.co.za

EDITORS

Nikki Sinclair, Mark Dobbin, Karen Schmidt

ADVERTISING SALES Nikki Sinclair 083 369 4748

DESIGN AND LAYOUT

Karen Schmidt, Tiara Publications https://za.linkedin.com/in/schmidtkaren karen@tiara-publications.co.za

COVER IMAGE

Photo by Beyond Measure www.beyondmeasure.co.za

CONTENT

Content by the Marriage Meander Company with additional editorial content supplied by and credited to advertisers within the KwaZulu-Natal book.

DISTRIBUTION

The Marriage Meander KZN Edition is published annually and distributed throughout KZN together with selected retailers nationally.

PRINTING

Colour Display (Pty) Ltd Disclaimer: We at Midlands Marriage Meander cc endeavour to provide our clients with a product that is accurate and of good quality. We are however, dependent on the information supplied to us by our Advertisers and to this end we cannot accept responsibility for errors or omissions once final sign-off has been received and the magazine has been published. Copyright applies to concept, text, covers, titles and distribution of the 2018/2019 Marriage Meander KZN book. Reproduction of any process is strictly prohibited without express prior written permission of the Marriage Meander Company.

4

You’re engaged… now what?

Escape for a day of wedding planning bliss as we transport you on our luxury bus to experience 4 fabulous venues and meet 20 reliable suppliers to assist with all aspects of your special day.

Journey Cut through the confusion and plan efficiently on this fun day out with other engaged couples.

At each of the venues you’ll enjoy on-trend displays and useful demos, food tasting, gifts, prizes and special offers.

DON’T MISS OUT, BOOK NOW:

www.marriagemeander.co.za or email nikki@marriagemeander.co.za

Y

5

Wild Olive Photography

Off to a Great Start NO REGRETS “I regret being so stressed out during the planning process. Too many people wanted to give advice and if I could do it again, I’d go with my heart more rather than trying to please everyone.”

6

– Mel

Your wedding is going to be magical, but you are inevitably going to make some mistakes along the way.

Here are some common wedding planning pitfalls that you can easily avoid:

A LACK OF PERSONALITY The number one biggest mistake is a wedding devoid of the couples’ own personalities. You do not need to have a theme wedding, but you as a couple should at least have a hand in the décor, menu and music, representing your preferences. This is one of the most important days of your life – it should reflect your life.

WASTING MONEY Be careful you’re not spending money where you don’t need to – whether it’s being talked into a more expensive wedding dress or having a limousine when your wedding and reception are at the same location.

Make sure you know your budget, what’s important to you and what isn’t.

FORGETTING WHAT A WEDDING REALLY IS The wedding ceremony is the main event – the reception is just a celebration of it. Make sure you’ve put enough thought into the music, readings and vows that will make your wedding ceremony memorable.

NOT KNOWING THE MASTER OF CEREMONIES There are two people whose personalities are essential to a successful event: the MC of the ceremony (often the marriage officer) and the MC of the reception (often the DJ or band leader). Make sure that your personalities mesh well with these two people, and that you feel listened to and respected.

THINKING “IT COULD NEVER RAIN ON MY WEDDING DAY” So many couples forget to plan for things, beyond their control, going wrong. If you’re having an outdoor wedding, make sure that you have an alternate location

in case of rain. Having a ‘Plan B’ gives everyone peace of mind.

FORGETTING THE MEANING OF THE WORD ‘BUDGET’ You started off well by figuring out how much you could save, how much parents would contribute, and what you already had in your bank account. But before you know it, you have spent twice what you budgeted for on shoes alone. Many couples give up on trying to stick to their budget but it’s not worth starting a new life together in debt.

OFF TO A GREAT START

TOP 10 BIGGEST MISTAKES WHEN PLANNING A WEDDING

Use your budget as a tool to figure out what you can cut, what you can save and where other income might come from. Not only will budgeting help you afford your wedding, but it’s an important skill for your married life.

GETTING TRASHED THE NIGHT BEFORE THE WEDDING Whether your friends have mistakenly planned the bachelor/bachelorette parties for the night before the wedding, or you plan to drink through the rehearsal dinner, the last thing you need is to wake up with a headache, puffy skin, fuzzy head, or worse, an upset stomach. Do yourself a favour, skip drinking the night before.

BEING INCONSIDERATE Yes, it’s your wedding and your special day, but you need to take other people into consideration as well.

After all, a good host puts others’ needs first. Think about what you are asking. Is what you need the wedding party to do, fair? Have you been clear about your expectations about the level of commitment?

7

David Weeks

Will your guests be forced to stand around for over an hour while you take pictures? Do guests know what to expect? Are you planning your wedding for a long weekend when most of your in-town guests wish they could get out of town?

NOT INVOLVING YOUR BETTER HALF Wedding planning can, and should be, the domain of both people, rather than just de facto delegated to the bride. Set aside a regular weekly meeting time to talk about new ideas, research that you’ve done, and set wedding-related goals for the next week.

LOSING PERSPECTIVE Don’t forget to keep your eye on what’s important to you. Avoid getting bogged down in so many small details that you don’t spend enough time on what’s important. If something goes wrong, try your best to take deep breaths and think about the big picture.

Above all, keep your sense of humour!

Another Huge Mistake is not hiring a wedding planner to ensure you have stress free Wedding Planning and a Dream Wedding that you can enjoy with no worries on your Big Day.

By ETC Events www.etcevents.co.za

8

Hosting many of Durban’s Top Wedding Suppliers

Florists • Photographers • Décor • Stationery • Gifts • Venues Make-up & Beauty • Bridesmaid’s Dresses • Wedding Planners www.bridalgallery.co.za thebridalgallerykzn@gmail.com • 079 164 7260 • 031 765 1446 20 Hospital Road, Hillcrest Open Tuesday to Friday 9:00–16:00 & Saturday 9:00–12:30

OFF TO A GREAT START

Hosted in the new and exciting ‘Globe’ at Suncoast Casino, Durban

1-3 March 2019

justine@conker.co.za / 082 378 0279 / 031 303 5941

Neville Nixon

Champagne Carriages

A unique horse and carriage experience to make your day even more elegant and memorable Champagne Carriages

Barbara 082 854 5698 • Gail 072 052 0640 • barbz@whitfieldfarm.co.za www.champagnecarriages.co.za

9

PRE-MARITAL PREPARATION Planning a wedding can be exciting and looking ahead to sharing a life with the person of your dreams can be full of hopeful anticipation. Often, we plan a wedding and invest a lot of time and money in the process, but we can forget about planning for what follows the wedding – a marriage!

Marriage preparation classes are often not taken seriously and just another box that needs to be ticked. Being prepared for this massive change in life is vital to ensure you are equipped to deal with your relationship once the romance subsides. And yes, sadly the romance does wear off and the demands of life and family take over.

No matter how well you know the person you are marrying, you won’t know how they are going to change as they grow older and being prepared for the inevitable changes that lie ahead is vital to a happy future together.

Learning and growing together and being willing to understand each other makes for a happy life!

Imago Pre-Marital courses prepare couples for the adventure ahead by helping them learn tools to deal with challenges and changes. It helps couples understand their partner’s identity and the roots of potential conflict – which happens to everyone.

Instead of leaving your relationship to chance, make sure you are equipped with tools of dialogue, understanding and behaviours that will keep your love alive and growing.

Don’t only prepare for the one big day – prepare your relationship for the years of marriage that lie ahead!

Join couples in a one-day workshop and learn that you already possess a quality essential to a loving connection: intentionality!

Pre Marital Relationship Preparation Give yourselves the gift of a lifetime!

083 671 6606 • michellevanas@hotmail.com

By Michelle Van As Tel: 083 671 6606

Photo: David Weeks

Michelle Van As Life and Emotional Wellness Coach

BA (Hons) Psych

10

David Weeks

THE WEDDING EXPO

See www.marriagemeander.co.za to confirm dates and find other events happening during the year. in association with

BETWEEN MARCH & NOVEMBER MARRIAGE MEANDER JOURNEYS See www.marriagemeander.co.za for dates, venues and details.

OFF TO A GREAT START

Diarise DATES TO

18 NOVEMBER 2018 | BREAKERS HOTEL BRIDAL FAIR Umhlanga | www.sabridalfairs.co.za

27 JANUARY 2019 | MAROUPI BRIDAL FAIR www.sabridalfairs.co.za

9–10 FEBRUARY 2019 | LA LUCIA MALL BRIDAL FAIR rapmodels@discoverymail.co.za

1–3 MARCH 2019 | BRIDAL & BEAUTY SHOW Suncoast Casino | justine@conker.co.za

1 MAY 2019 | MIDLANDS BRIDAL FAIR www.midlandsbridalfair.com

MAY 2019 | HILTON HOTEL DURBAN BRIDAL FAIR www.sabridalfairs.co.za

29 JUNE 2019 | THE KZN BRIDAL FAIR

Durban 3-4 August 2019

Pietermaritzburg | gail@spottedowl.co.za

3–4 AUGUST 2019 | THE WEDDING EXPO DURBAN Sun Sibaya | www.wedding-expo.co.za

the_wedding_expo

TheWeddingExpoSA

www.wedding-expo.co.za

11

Dream Ceremonies by Wild Olive Photography

I Do NO REGRETS “We regret not asking the marriage officer to get guests to put their cell phones away. We would have preferred everyone to be more ‘present’ during the ceremony. We loved that we wrote our own vows.”

12

– Josh & Cathy

The ceremony is the most important part of your day and should focus on you as a couple. You not only declare and confirm your love for each other but, by answering the legal questions and signing the register, you are also getting legally married – partners for life! These tips will help you plan a memorable ceremony: 1. The duration of the ceremony is extremely important – it should be meaningful for the couple and at the same time, keep the attention of the guests.

2. The content of the ceremony determines the tone of your wedding day.

3. If you want your guests to enjoy your wedding day, discuss with the marriage officer ways to keep the ceremony joyful and light hearted.

4. If you want your guests to be ‘present’ during the ceremony, it would be a great idea to ask guests not to take any photos or videos during the ceremony.

5. Choose your music wisely, especially the songs to be used before, during and as you exit the ceremony.

I DO

10 TOP TIPS FOR PLANNING YOUR CEREMONY

9. If you are a practical person then it is a great idea to incorporate a symbolic ceremony in the order of service, for example a sand pouring or candle lighting ceremony – there are many possibilities.

10. Make sure you are well informed by the marriage officer on the order of service so you don’t have to stress about the unexpected.

Above all, stay true to who you are as a couple when deciding on the kind of ceremony and the way it will be conducted. On the day, be mindful to enjoy every special moment.

By Dream Ceremonies www.dreamceremonies.co.za

6. Make sure that the content of the ceremony meets your criteria and reflects your beliefs.

7. It’s wise to bring some variety into your ceremony so guests are not bored. You could ask a friend or family member to do a special reading or poem, or even sing a special song.

8. Vows during the ceremony should be meaningful and from the heart. We advise that you either repeat your vows after the marriage officer or have them printed on a card rather than try to remember what you want to say. Even if you’ve practiced, nerves might get the better of you and it is so important to focus on each other when exchanging vows.

MARRIAGE OFFICERS WE OFFER:

• Registered marriage officers • Legal Documentation for SA and International • Variety of ceremonies • Travel to venues in KZN • Renewal of vows • Christenings AJ & Beulah 082 921 6475 • ewo@telkomsa.net www.dreamceremonies.co.za

13

#legallyspeaking 10 THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE GETTING MARRIED While a perfect wedding is every girl’s dream, it is important to remember that all your efforts should not be focused on one spectacular day, but on a lifetime of love and shared experiences. Before you get carried away with the myriad of details that will consume you for the next few months, here are some important things that you need to know regarding your marriage:

14

I

Sign your Antenuptial Contract (“ANC”) before you get married.

I

If you get married without an antenuptial contract, you will automatically be married in community of property.

I

Do your research – it’s very expensive to change your marital regime after the wedding. Get good advice up front and make an informed decision.

I

Marriage in community of property results in a 50/50 sharing of all your assets and more importantly, all your debts. This can have significant consequences down the line.

I

An ANC can protect you from being held liable for your spouse’s debts.

I

Don’t make assumptions – an ANC is preparation for life together. It is not preparation for divorce.

I

Don’t believe what you see on TV – South African law is nothing like Hollywood and you need to get good advice to choose the best option that will suit you and your new spouse.

I

There are two types of ANC: a straight ANC and an ANC with the application of the Accrual System. A good lawyer will help you understand the difference, so you can choose the one that suits you best.

I

Update your wills before you get married – this is a significant change and you will want to take your new spouse into account in your will. If you don’t change your will, your new spouse will not automatically inherit anything.

I

Ask about the possible creation of a trust in terms of your will to provide for any minors who may inherit in terms of your will.

By J Leslie Smith & Company www.jlesliesmith.com

I DO Sean Baker

COMMON LAW MARRIAGE IN SOUTH AFRICA There is a common myth that if a couple live together for a set period then this will create a legal position known as a ‘Common Law Marriage’. Couples assume that they will have the same legal rights as married couples. However, there is no such thing as a common law marriage in South African law. Even where a couple have been living together for a lengthy period, this does not give them the same legal rights as those given by marriage. Unlike a divorce, if couples separate, there is no automatic right to a division of assets, even if they have contributed equally to the expenses of the household. A valid marriage entered into will confer reciprocal spousal duties and a division of assets depending on your marital regime.

By Benita Ardenbaum Family Law www.benitaardenbaum.com

Ante-Nuptial Contacts | Wills | Conveyancing 031 536 6000 • 083 441 6693 • office@baattorney.co.za 98 Armstrong Ave, La Lucia Ridge, Umhlanga www.benitaardenbaum.com

15

Beyond Measure

Location NO REGRETS “I wish we had booked our venue first. It was difficult to tie our vision in with the venue we fell in love with and I ended up changing my dress and colour scheme to suit the venue.”

– Gabby

16

Whether you choose to have your wedding outdoors against the gorgeous backdrop of nature or indoors in an extravagant banquet hall, finding a venue that’s most suitable for you is important. There are numerous aspects that may affect which type of venue that you choose, including the season, your budget, and whether you want to have your ceremony and reception at the same place. As you begin the process of selecting a wedding venue, keep these key factors in mind:

SPACE REQUIREMENTS

EXCLUSIVITY

Make sure you draw up your guest list before you begin to look at venues. Knowing how many people you are inviting will help you avoid some challenges down the road and also help you break down your budget so that you know what type of venue you can afford.

Not every couple will want to share the venue space with another wedding party on their special day. Find out if there will be other guests present or another event happening at this venue on your wedding day. Many of the venues in KwaZulu-Natal offer exclusivity and the venue will be ‘yours’ for the day or weekend – this is a wonderful attribute, so don’t take it for granted.

KNOW YOUR BUDGET If you select a venue and pay a deposit before breaking down your budget first, you are going to run into some issues. First, figure out how much you have to spend on your wedding. Once you know how many guests you want, work out how much you’ll need for catering, how much you want to spend on a photographer, and go from there. If you find a venue you absolutely love but it blows your budget, you will need to either scale back on other aspects or cut your guest list.

CATERING Find out if the venue has their own in-house catering services or if they have restrictions on outside catering coming in on the wedding day. If they provide in-house catering, discuss the various options and make sure that the menu includes dishes that you want to incorporate, before booking the venue. Some venues are more flexible with menus than others.

WHAT STYLE DO YOU WANT

IS YOUR DATE AVAILABLE

Finding a venue that aligns with your vision will help enhance and make your wedding magical. If you are going to go ahead with a themed wedding, this becomes even more critical as you want the venue to emphasize the theme. Several styles include casual, formal, rustic, country, romantic or outdoor.

When going through the list of venues that you have in mind, find out which ones are available on your date.

This may narrow down your options as many couples book their venue a year or more in advance.

FACILITIES AVAILABLE Figure out if you need a chapel, a banquet hall, a children’s room, pre-wedding dressing rooms, a kitchen for out-of-house catering, and accommodation if guests will be travelling from far. If your furry friends will be part of the ceremony, make sure the venue will allow them.

LOCATION

FINDING YOUR IDEAL WEDDING VENUE

VENDOR RESTRICTIONS Some wedding venues will have restrictions on what type of décor can be strung up, when setup can take place, whether loud music can be played after midnight, or whether you will be allowed to bring in your own catering and equipment. Wedding venues often list their major restrictions on their website, so consider these carefully before going to view the venue.

17

Wild Olive Photography

ACCESSIBILITY FEATURES If you know that you will have elderly or disabled guests, you will need a venue that has easy access and possibly ramps and proper seating.

CONSIDER YOUR GUESTS Although this is your special day, you’ll want to ensure your guests enjoy it and are comfortable.

18

Avoid choosing a venue where you’ll have to squeeze everyone in – a maximum capacity venue is never very comfortable. You will want a venue that can not only hold the total amount of guests you are inviting but have space for dancing and room for comfort. You’ll enjoy the event even more knowing your guests are taken care of.

LOCATION

David Weeks

Dean Demos

Wild Olive Photography Sean Baker

19

Neville Nixon at Lythwood Lodge

The Midlands have become a venue windfall over the years with it’s lush rolling hills, rivers and valleys.

Here you’ll find a few dozen world-class venues to choose from and with so much on offer, you are sure to find something that becomes all you ever wanted and more.

Only a 4 hour drive from Johannesburg and about 1½ hours from Durban makes the area an ideal destination to bring families together. Most venues offer exclusivity, which is not to be taken for granted, as you can’t put a price on it when the property is ‘yours and your guests’ for the day or weekend.

Midlands 20

MOOI RIVER

FORDOUN

R103

N3

FORDOUN Midlands u Style Events

NETHERWOOD

y

y

y

WATERWOODS

GRANNY MOUSE

y

ST IVES

HILTON BUSH LODGE

M

yMOUNT SHEKINAH R103

LYTHWOOD LODGE

y

CRYSTAL BARN

LYTHWOOD LODGE

y

CURRY’S POST

y

yGRANNY MOUSE

PROTEA HOTEL HILTON

y

CALDERWOOD HALL

D369

CRYSTAL BARN

NETHERWOOD

MOUNT SHEKINAH

y NOTT y ROAINDGHA

WATERWOODS

y

y

y

y

LOCATION: MIDLANDS

y

y

TO JOHANNESBURG

ST IVES

y

y

HOWICK

R103

DARGLE

u

WINGROVE VALLEY

Natural Nostalgia

y

To THE HILTON BUSH LODGE

MIDMAR DAM

N3

y

To CALDERWOOD HALL

y

PROTEA HOTEL HILTON

y

To WINGROVE VALLEY PMB

21

Crystal Barn

Crystal Barn

Crystal Barn

22

Fordoun by David Weeks

24

LOCATION: MIDLANDS

The Hilton Bush Lodge

Daniel: 083 229 6677 admin@wingrovevalley.co.za www.wingrovevalley.co.za /wingrovevalley wingrovevalleywedding

Wingrove Valley

25

Calderwood Hall

Be Charmed...

by the elegant yet warm Calderwood Hall Guest House.

Delight in the pretty and tranquil thatched, stained glass chapel.

Enjoy our draped, chandeliered reception venue.

Stay a while and enjoy the calm country ambience in our comfortable accommodation.

Dream a little, as here we will make memories.

We’re everything you need and more...

Tel: +27 (0)33 997 1926 · Cell: +27 (0)82 890 4537 info@calderwood.co.za · www.calderwood.co.za Contact Us

26

Calderwood Hall

LOCATION: MIDLANDS

Create the wedding you’ve always wanted From a romantic garden ceremony to formal banquet; a quaint rustic chapel to free-spirited Bedouin elegance—we have a number of venue options. Together with our extensive wedding planning tools, we are your secret to a great wedding!

Alison: 033 234 4666 / weddings@lythwood.com / www.lythwood.com © Main photo: Darryn Sykes. Inset photos: Enhle Creatives, Dean Demos, Brandon Wyness, The Shank Tank.

Lythwood Lodge by David Weeks

27

www.netherwood.co.za

Netherwood Chapel by Beyond Measure

28

+27 (0)33 266 7132

LOCATION: MIDLANDS

Granny Mouse

Granny Mouse Chapel

Say “I do” in style at Granny Mouse Country House & Spa, and fall in love all over again…

As one of the most romantic venues in the KwaZulu Natal Midlands, offering an idyllic chapel with panoramic views over the Caversham Valley, a reception venue catering for up to 120 guests and culinary team ready to create a feast to surprise and delight, Granny Mouse Country House & Spa will bring your dream wedding to life.

29

Photo: Candice Christie

An upmarket wedding venue—the epitome of style and elegance www.waterwoods.co.za • 082 891 5975 • admin@waterwoods.co.za

Waterwoods

Chapel, Banquet Hall, Restaurant & Accommodation 033 001 0303 info@mountshekinah.co.za www.mountshekinah.co.za

IT’S HEAVEN ON EARTH!

Spectacular views, tranquillity, beautiful setting, and excellent cuisine.

Mount Shekinah

30

LOCATION: MIDLANDS

Protea Hotel Hilton by Beyond Measure

ElEGAncE is TimElEss… DOn’T cOmPROmisE On THE sTART OF YOUR HAPPilY EVER AFTER Prime location in the KZN Midlands boasting a one-of-a-kind chapel, breathtaking views, onsite accommodation for 46 guests, an award-winning chef and an experienced event co-ordinator.

St Ives

catherine@stives.co.za • 033 234 4490 • www.stives.co.za Get a quote with our App: https://stives.our-venue.com

/stiveskzn

31

Tala Valley With the feel of a distant wilderness, you can find venues that offer an escape from city life in the picturesque Tala Valley – situated just 40 minutes from Durban and 20 minutes from Pietermaritzburg. Due to its easy access, this area is a popular choice when considering convenience for guests travelling from both cities.

The venues showcased here are as varied as the landscape, which ranges from cane fields and dramatic valleys to African bush and English country gardens.

However, at each of them, you can enjoy warm hospitality, excellent cuisine, and some exceptional photo opportunities all without having to travel very far at all.

32

Darrel Collins

y

y EDEN LASSIE

TO PIETERMARITZBURG

TALA COLLECTION

y

INSINGIZI

SCOTTSVILLE N3

UMBUMBULU

R56

CAMPERDOWN

CATO RIDGE N3 INGOMANKULO ROAD

y EDEN LASSIE

TO DURBAN

GWAHUMBE

y TALA COLLECTION PRIVATE GAME RESERVE

R56

R603 R624

y

SWEET HOME RICHMOND

y

SWEET HOME

LOCATION: TALA VALLEY / MID-ILLOVO

y

iNSINGIZI

y

ISMONT ROAD

y GWAHUMBE

MPUMALANGA

Mid Illovo Sign

R603

33

Sweet Home by Sean Baker

Exclusive country weddings loaded with elegance

082 953 7911 • info@sweethomeweddings.co.za www.sweethomeweddings.co.za

BOOK YOUR DATE NOW

before someone else takes it!

A little bit of everything and a whole lot of wonderful! Beautiful, convenient, luxurious, tranquil a treat in every respect. Enjoy service out of the top drawer and a wedding to remember!

Between Pietermaritzburg & Durban

Mobile: 083.414.1932 • info@insingizi.co.za

w w w. i n s i n g i z i . c o . z a 34

iNsingizi by Neville Nixon

Gwahumbe Game & Spa

LOCATION: TALA VALLEY / MID-ILLOVO

Gwahumbe Game & Spa

35

THE VENUE WITH A VIEW – TALA VALLEY

Let us make your wedding day an unforgettable one!

Our venue has a breathtaking view and is set in tranquil gardens which make for beautiful photo opportunities.

With our dedicated in-house décor team you can relax throughout the entire wedding planning process. Your special day with us is sure to be one that dreams are made of.

IN-HOUSE DÉCOR AT EDEN LASSIE

Eden Lassie: Contact Judy on 083 552 9134 | edenlassie@sai.co.za | www.edenlassie.co.za Daleliteful Décor: Contact Dale on 084 514 3769 | dalelitefuldecor@sai.co.za

Eden Lassie Chapel

36

Romance AN AFRICAN

Host your dream wedding at Tala Collection Private Game Reserve and let the splendour of the African bush provide a beautiful backdrop to a day of lasting memories… A sought-after destination wedding venue offering a beautiful African bush experience. Tala Collection has several stunning and versatile venues with magnificent views creating the perfect setting for traditional, unique, individual and exceptional weddings. Our Tala Team will ensure that Your Dream Wedding will be one to treasure.

031 781 8000 | weddings@tala.co.za www.tala.co.za

Kym Burmester

WEDDINGS | CONFERENCES | DAY EXCURSIONS | PRIVATE FUNCTIONS | LUXURY ACCOMMODATION

Upper Highway The rolling hills of the Upper Highway area is growing in popularity as a wedding destination due to its rippling terrain, quiet, tree-lined roads and wonderful hospitality. Situated in the hills above Durban, it includes the main suburbs of Hillcrest and Kloof as well as the surrounding areas.

Although the area has developed rapidly, it has kept its quaintness and rustic beauty. Our select venues offer great variety and unique charm and all are worth a visit as you are sure to be very pleasantly surprised by what each has to offer.

38

Sean Baker

y INTABA VIEW

y

y TALLOULA

y THE DU BOIRS

MAKARANGA

INTABA VIEW

y

TALLOULA

y

THE DU BOIRS

INANDA ROAD

OLD MAIN ROAD

EVERTON KLOOF

HILLCREST

TO PIETERMARITZBURG

LOCATION: UPPER HIGHWAY

y

IGWABABA ROAD

yMAKARANGA

GILLITTS

N3

TO DURBAN

39

We know what you want in a wedding venue, and we can’t wait to show you our fresh, stylish venue.

A clean palette with white open trusses, glistening crystal, and an infusion of flavours expertly cooked to perfection awaits you.

Our Garden Conservatory makes the perfect spot for your I DO moment!

chapel . venue . dĂŠcor . garden spa 031 777 1586 61 Old Main Road, Bothas Hill www.talloula.co.za /talloulabothashill

/talloulabothashill

/talloulavenue

Talloula

Talloula

40

Talloula

Talloula

LOCATION: UPPER HIGHWAY

Makaranga by Beyond Measure

41

A true experience of beauty with panoramic views of the Valley of 1000 Hills coupled with old style country charm

www.intabaview.co.za • 031 783 4011 • info@intabaview.co.za 10 Old Main Road, Drummond, Valley of 1000 Hills, KZN

Ivor Hamilton

Intaba View by Darrel Collins

Dean Demos

Dean Demos

031 776 3159 • Info@theduboirs.co.za • www.theduboirs.co.za

42

The duBoirs by Beyond Measure

When looking for your venue, ask these questions before your book

•

Does the venue hire fit my budget? Avoid looking at venues way out of your range.

•

Does the venue offer different rates for different days of the week/seasons?

•

How many guests will you have? Is the venue large enough, or possibly too large?

•

Is there accommodation for you and/or your guests if needed? What are the rates?

•

What does the venue hire include: Chapel; tables & chairs, cutlery & glassware; waiters and bar staff; accommodation?

•

Does the venue have a cut-off time? What is the additional cost if you go past midnight?

•

What deposit will you need to pay and by when? Check the T&Cs.

•

What is the cancellation policy? Read the contract carefully to avoid possible conflict.

•

Is the venue available for your proposed date?

•

Is the venue accessible and does it have facilities for elderly or disabled guests?

•

Does the venue offer exclusivity? Or will there be other groups using the venue?

•

How friendly and accommodating are the staff at the venue? They should be very helpful.

•

Is there an on-site wedding coordinator? Find out exactly what they will do and if they will be present on the day.

•

Does the venue have in-house catering, a list of preferred outside caterers or allow you to hire your own caterer?

•

What menu options are available? Does the catering fit within your budget?

•

Does the venue provide bar services or do they allow you to bring in your own alcohol?

•

Does the venue have any of their own suppliers that you are obliged to use?

•

If you plan a garden or outdoor ceremony, what is the ‘Plan B’ in case of rain?

•

Check the inclusions and restrictions regarding décor, eg: draping, candles, furniture.

•

When can you have access to the venue to set up? When will you need to vacate after setting up?

LOCATION: UPPER HIGHWAY

VENUE CHECKLIST

43

David Weeks

Drakensberg The Drakensberg truly is one of the most spectacular regions in South Africa. The looming panorama of peaks provides a truly spectacular backdrop for any celebration and the overshadowing scale of nature is breathtaking. There are a number of beautiful places to get married in the southern and central regions of the Drakensberg, each with its unique look and feel. The berg is lushly green from spring to the start of autumn which many people opt for but boasts wonderfully warm hues in winter as well. If you have many travelling guests, the area is conveniently situated between Gauteng and Durban and allows the feeling of really escaping whilst not being inconveniently out of reach.

44

y

N3

R74

CATHEDRAL PEAK WINE ESTATE

CATHEDRAL PEAK WINE ESTATE

y

N3

R600

yWITS END

ESCOURT

N3

y

WITS END

MOOI RIVER

LOCATION: DRAKENSBERG

y

WINTERTON

PREMIER RESORT SANI PASS

LESOTHO NOTTINGHAM ROAD

MALOTI-DRAKENSBERG PARK

y

GOODERSON DRAKENSBERG GARDENS

y

y

BOSTON

PREMIER RESORT SANI PASS HIMEVILLE R617

GOODERSON DRAKENSBERG GARDENS UNDERBERG

R617

BULWER

45

For all you dreamed of and more!

Venue • Accommodation • Honeymoon • Conferences Contact Taryn on 033 701 1355 or email drakadmin@goodersons.co.za

Gooderson Drakensberg Gardens

46

Gooderson Drakensberg Gardens

Photo: Dean Demos

This is where...

An extraordinary wedding destination overlooking the majestic Drakensberg Mountains, offering a one-of-a-kind experience that is simply unforgettable.

Exchange your wedding vows at our picturesque waterfall during summer or surrounded by crisp white snow-capped mountain peaks for a magical winter wedding. We will create your flawless and memorable event for up to 400 guests.

it all begins

LOCATION: DRAKENSBERG

Premier Resort Sani Pass

Sani Pass Road, Himeville, Kwazulu-Natal +27 (0) 33 702 1320 • Sanipass.res@premierhotels.co.za Central Reservations 086 111 5555 • info@premierhotels.co.za Premier Resort Sani Pass

w w w. p r e m i e r h o t e l s . c o . z a 47

Sean Baker

DESTINATION WEDDINGS Whether travelling overseas or only a few hours from home, choosing to get married a distance from where you live has many advantages.

These ‘destination weddings’ are usually smaller affairs and continue to become more popular with couples who are looking for a unique experience and a more relaxed and personal event. Depending on where the wedding is, the smaller size can result in lower costs for the couple.

You can also keep it simple as many venues at beautiful destinations require minimal décor.

Once you’ve decided to leave your hometown for your celebration, select a venue that works not only with your vision but also that makes sense based on how much time you have to spend on the preparation.

Everyone who has planned a wedding knows it’s not for the faint-hearted. While organizing a destination wedding comes with its own set of challenges, many of these can be overcome by hiring a wedding planner who knows the area and has contacts with local suppliers.

One of the main advantages of a destination wedding is that it is generally a full weekend or longer, allowing for all the stress to dissipate before the wedding day arrives.

Although more careful planning is required, once you are there, you will be consumed by feelings of joy and goodwill that only a wedding can really create. Being away together for a few days with the people you love most also gives friends and family from both sides an opportunity to get to know one another. The union becomes greater than just that of two individuals.

You will need to start planning your destination wedding early and let guests know well ahead so they can make the necessary arrangements to be there. Remember to be flexible as you will not be able to anticipate everything ahead of you. Keep the bigger picture in mind as you decide what’s most important for you and your guests to experience and you will create an event that will have lifelong memories.

Wild Olive Photography

All events are tailored to your specific needs and hosted with elegance and finesse.

Cathedral Peak Wine Estate

LOCATION: DRAKENSBERG

Cathedral Peak Wine Estate offers exclusive and exceptional wedding ceremonies amidst the manicured vineyards overlooking the Central Drakensberg.

082 378 4204 | caren@cathpeakwines.com | www.cathpeakwines.com Photo: Christy Hosking

Wits End

49

49

VENUE INFORMATION AREA

VENUE

SIZE / PAX

VENUE HIRE (R 000’s)

ACCOMMODATION

MIDLANDS

Calderwood Hall Guest House

50–250

Packages

DB&B

Crystal Barn

200

40>

B&B

Fordoun

200

30–40

B&B or SC

Granny Mouse

120

Varies

B&B

Hilton Bush Lodge

150

15–25

B&B or SC

Lythwood Lodge

60–300

Packages

B&B

Mount Shekinah

60–200

Varies

B&B

TALA VALLEY

UPPER HIGHWAY

DRAKENSBERG

Netherwood

250

Packages

SC

Protea Hotel by Marriott Hilton

60–180

10–15

B&B

St Ives

60–250

15–30

B&B

Waterwoods

60–450

15–30

SC

Wingrove Valley

50–250

Varies

SC

Eden Lassie

50–280

10–15

Local B&B

Gwahumbe

60–120

15–20

B&B

iNsingizi

120

10–15

DB&B / B&B

Sweet Home

200

Packages

SC

Tala Collection Private Game Reserve

2–250

10–20

B&B / SC

The du Boirs

350

Varies

B&B

Intaba View

180

10–15

N/A

Makaranga

140

Varies

B&B

Talloula

50–250

15–20

B&B

Cathedral Peak Wine Estate

40–160

Packages

N/A

Gooderson Drakensberg Gardens

140

<10

B&B

Premier Resort Sani Pass

250

Packages

120 Rooms

Wits End

150

Packages

SC

KEY: 50

SC: Self-Catering | RC: Recommended Caterers

ACCOM PP R

CATERER

CATERING PP R

CHAPEL

70

Varies

CHC Catering

From 332

Included

30

820

In-house

350

Included

78

600–1900

RC

Varies

Included

71

Seasonal

In-house

350–385

Additional

36+

From 600

RC & In-house

From 265

Included

66

750

In-house

270–400

Included

15

Seasonal

In-house

From 250

Included

20

500–1000

RC

Varies

Included

97

1200–2500/room

In-house

275–375

Included

23

From 600

In-house

From 325

6000

32

From 500

RC & SC

Varies

Included

8–10

500

RC

Varies

Forest +1500

+100

From 250

CHC Catering

310

200

32

775

In-house

250–375

Included

50

420–965

In-house

344

Included

58

380–450

RC

Varies

Included

78

From 865

In-house

Varies

Included

20

From 770

In-house / SC

Varies

Garden

0

N/A

In-house

315–395

4500

46

Included

In-house

Varies

Garden

8

595

In-house

395

Included

0

N/A

CBK Catering

Varies

2500

161

780

In-house

335

Included

240

From 950/room

In-house

225–450

Garden / Other

44

415

Highway / SC

From 260

Included

LOCATION: VENUE INFORMATION

# BEDS

Dean Demos

51

Tastes NO REGRETS

“We regret not serving more substantial canapés with the drinks after our ceremony.

Some of our guests had travelled a long way and were really hungry by the time we went into the venue for supper.”

– Luke & Carla

52

Sean Baker

The food served at your wedding is something your guests will remember for a long time. If the venue does not provide catering, make sure you hire an experienced caterer who will not only take care of the food but also the service and logistics of the day. Here are some important factors to consider to help ensure your event is a success: Ask the caterer to stipulate on the quote exactly what is included in the price per head. Many caterers will not include waitrons, crockery and cutlery, linen, and transport in the ‘per head’ price so although the food price will look impressive, when you add on all these extras you may be in for a surprise.

Remember when compiling your menu to choose foods to which your guests are accustomed. Just because you love sushi doesn’t mean everybody else does.

Simple ‘rustic’ foods and dishes are all the rage now so remember to keep your menu uncomplicated.

Check whether any of your guests have specific dietary requirements so that you can make sure your caterer is aware and can plan with you accordingly. You want them to feel as important as all the other guests so ensure to ask your guests beforehand.

When compiling your menu, consider adding a vegetarian option as part of your menu. There are inevitably those who will forget to advise you of their dietary requirements and this option gives your caterer some flexibility.

We recommend a punch or juice is served after the ceremony together with some light canapes as wedding guests often arrive hungry!

If you are having a cocktail hour, consider serving your starter with the drinks, it will give you more time to party at the reception! A harvest-table starter is a great idea.

TASTES

10 TOP CATERING TIPS FOR YOUR WEDDING

Cutting your wedding cake straight after the ceremony and serving it with tea is both a popular and a great cost-saving idea. It also makes your wedding cake an important part of the day.

Remember to make an allowance for a simple meal to be served to the service staff on the day, eg: waitrons, bar staff, car guards and security personnel. A simple meal, such as a lasagne and rolls, will make for happy staff who will then go the extra mile to make your wedding a huge success!

Most caterers will not allow you to supplement their catering with your own food, apart from the wedding cake, sweets, and candies. You shouldn’t feel offended by this. Most caterers (and your guests) will be covered by some sort of public liability insurance and your supplying part of the meal will just complicate matters.

Finally, when choosing your wedding caterer, we recommend you find out as much information as you can about them (testimonials should be available as well) and that whatever you discuss is noted. Time passes, memories can become fuzzy but written notes act as a reference point for all. In this way, the caterer and the client will be on the same page and the wedding will run smoothly, to everyone’s delight!

By CHC Catering www.chccatering.co.za

53

CHC Catering

Visit www.chccatering.co.za To View Our Menus and Prices

Making Your Dreams A Reality!

Whether you’re looking for simplicity or the traditional fairytale wedding, we’d like to be the professional team who ensure that your dream becomes a reality. We offer generous portions of fresh food beautifully presented and supported with a superior level of service at the venue of your choice.

033 394 3924 • functions@chccatering.co.za www.chccatering.co.za

54

The Farmer’s Daughter

TASTES

Eat with Love

•

•

•

•

•

Events: Jen – 072 842 3950 Restaurant: 033 330 2958 55

CREATIVE ADVICE FOR CHOOSING YOUR WEDDING CAKE The wedding cake is a very important part of the celebration. Besides using it to feed the guests and the need for it to taste great, it is often viewed as the second work of art at the event after the bride’s dress. As a result, it is important to think over some aspects when deciding on your cake design and on who you hire to make your cake. Here are some valuable tips…

•

The cake should taste and look amazing. Thus cake tasting is essential but beware of cake specialists who charge a lot for cake tasting or who won’t meet for a design consult with the tasting.

•

Think carefully before you tweak and change aspects of a photo of the cake you have chosen online. If it looks good in the photo, leave it that way, for it often does not look as good when you change even small aspects of the photo such as colour or décor.

•

Don’t select the cheapest quote. You usually get what you pay for. Brides often feel that they have done well by getting the best bargain cake… until they see the finished product on their wedding day, and then it is too late.

•

Realise that many of the cakes on Pinterest are fake and that the photos are highly manipulated and airbrushed. Rather look at cakes on the websites of the cake specialists you are considering.

•

You can use your cake strategically in two ways: either as dessert; or served after your ceremony while you are having your photos taken and your guests wait around. If you want to keep your cake uncut for as long as possible so that it can be admired, use it as dessert.

•

56

You can add variety by having a different flavour for each tier. Guests will eat more if there are different flavours as they will try one or two flavours instead of being limited to only one.

•

Be open to design ideas. You may not like fondant but have a look at some fondant cakes and be open to the idea that you may find your dream cake amongst them. In the same way, you may never have imagined you would want a semi-naked cake but one may steal your heart.

•

Enjoy the journey – you may never have this opportunity again of doing something as fun as choosing a wedding cake, going for a cake tasting and crafting your final design with a specialist. Don’t feel that you need to race to decide. A deposit should book the date but not lock you into the final design.

A cake should only be baked 2 or 3 days before the wedding, so there is still time to change ideas.

•

Ask the venue to keep some cake for you because it is likely that you will be so busy with guests or having photos taken and sadly not get to try any. Also, what could be better than waking up the next morning and having some of your very own wedding cake for breakfast?

•

For your guests, food is one of the most important aspects of the wedding and the cake is food that is also art, so think carefully about it. Your cake specialist should be prepared to meet with you, chat via phone, email or change the design if needed, especially after you have paid your deposit.

By Roz’s Beautiful Cakes www.rozsbeautifulcakes.co.za

TASTES

www.rozsbeautifulcakes.co.za

roz@rozsbeautifulcakes.co.za • 083 321 5487 Roz’s Beautiful Cakes

WEDDING & CELEBRATION CAKE SPECIALIST

The Frost Goddess

Thersha: 084 528 7403 • thershag869@gmail.com

57

Roz’s Beautiful Cakes

Eat with Love

Cake The Frost Goddess

Roz’s Beautiful Cakes

INSPIRATION

Roz’s Beautiful Cakes Roz’s Beautiful Cakes

The Frost Goddess

58

Eat with Love

David Weeks

TASTES

Eat with Love

The Farmer’s Daughter

The Frost Goddess

Roz’s Beautiful Cakes Dean Demos

The Farmer’s Daughter

Eat with Love

59

Dean Demos

Just Write NO REGRETS “I regret not being more specific on the invitation. We didn’t specify who was invited and had a couple of children and +1’s attend. We would have preferred to invite more friends.”

60

– Anne

Some traditional with a few not-so-traditional items to inspire you ahead of your big day and when to send or order them.

Wild Olive Photography

JUST WRITE

10 IMPORTANT WEDDING STATIONERY ITEMS

INVITATIONS Send out: 3 months before Invitations set the tone for your wedding and give your guests the honour of accepting. You can hint at your colours and theme, and include information such as RSVP, directions, accommodation and gift registries.

When it comes to design, the world is your oyster. New materials like wood, acrylic and foiling are very on trend, along with floral accents and striking contrasts.

Fuchsia Fine Event Stationery

SAVE THE DATE Send out: 6 months before ‘Save the dates’ set the ball in motion and can be a useful way to whittle down your guest list before distributing your invitations. The most practical save the date is an electronic version, but there are some fun alternatives like scratch-off date cards, magnets, luggage tags or personalised macaron bonbonnière boxes.

WEDDING WEBSITE Order 4 months before A wedding website can form an alternative or an addon to your wedding invitation suite and is particularly attractive because they usually come with an online RSVP system that’s easy to use. Couples that have set up a website will often include the link on their printed invitation for reply purposes. The website usually contains a brief story about the couple which is quite unique.

61

Beyond Measure

SEATING PLAN Dean Demos

WELCOME POSTER Order once you’ve received your RSVP’s allowing at least 2 weeks for production Welcoming your guests is a nice touch and can also be used to guide guests to the chapel on arrival. Usually placed on a frame, they are often dressed with foliage and other décor items. The content can include an order of the day, a special thank you, or to request an ‘unplugged wedding’ where guests are asked to turn off their cell phones during the ceremony proceeding.

62

Order once you’ve received your RSVP’s allowing at least 2 weeks for production A seating plan is vital for any wedding. We recommend listing names alphabetically for large weddings as guests need to locate their names as quickly as possible. A large print placed on an easel or in a frame is the most traditional format but you can get creative: stringing cards on twine, listing names accompanied by shooters or a pink gin, etching into Perspex or using vinyl on a mirror or piece of acrylic. If you are ‘theming’ your wedding then you may want to incorporate this into your seating arrangement. For example, a travel theme could have a world map with guests assigned to cities or countries.

JUST WRITE Sean Baker Sean Baker

PLACE-CARDS

TABLE NUMBER CARDS Order once you’ve received your RSVP’s allowing at least 2 weeks for production Whether you number or name your tables, it’s an exciting element to your table décor. Traditional tent card formats are the simplest but you can combine this with a programme and menu in a standing table talker whether triangular or in a concertina fold. Laser-cut table numbers to place into your flowers are beautiful, as are etched Perspex standing table numbers.

Order once you’ve received your RSVP’s allowing at least 2 weeks for production Place-cards in a tent format are the most conventional form of guiding guests to their seats. Arriving at a table where your name is present welcomes you to the event and makes you feel valued. Depending on your theme and your budget you can play around with these – foil them, emboss them, tie them to your cutlery or wine glasses. You can also personalise the guest favour as a thank you to your guests.

MENU CARDS Order once you’ve received your RSVP’s allowing at least 2 weeks for production There are many ways to make your menus part of your décor. A printed circular underplate, a serviette wrap, individual menus neatly placed on a side plate, or combined with a programme or place name as a fortune teller, incorporating fun facts about the bride and groom. It’s also acceptable to place a single menu in the centre of the table or print a poster which can be placed in a frame at the start of the buffet.

Dean Demos

63

Fuchsia Fine Event Stationery

Beyond Measure

CONFETTI VINYL Order once you’ve received your RSVP’s allowing at least 2 weeks for production There are various options available to you to use vinyl on signage, to decorate your chapel entrance or dance floor. Check with the venue whether they allow vinyl applications on their floors. Vinyl can either be printed and cut out to size, or lettering can be cut from coloured vinyl and applied directly to the floor or substrate.

Order once you’ve received your RSVP’s allowing at least 2 weeks for production Throwing confetti is an important element to the celebration, whether you choose to throw rose petals, fresh flowers or greenery. Personalised confetti cones are popular, as are organza bags, but you can also have open-ended envelopes made up in a semi-transparent paper with a message such as ‘When James and Mich pass your way, toss the confetti and yell Hooray!’ printed on the front. Branded bubble confetti is also trending.

We hope these ideas inspire you to have fun with your stationery planning. There are so many other things you could do – just be careful not to be overwhelmed by the many options and information out there!

By Fuchsia Fine Event Stationery www.weddingstationerydesign.co.za

64

JUST WRITE

Beyond Measure

Laser Cutting and Engraving of Wood, Perspex,Fabric and Leather Invitations • Cake Toppers • Guest Books • Programmes Seating Plans • Table Numbers • Keyrings • Fridge Magnets • Coasters

www.creativelaserstudio.co.za

Tanya: 083 762 9205 | info@creativelaserstudio.co.za | 65 Victoria Road

We specialise in décor and floral set-ups, hiring, lighting, candy stations and much more.

Yvette: 084 262 2849 | 033 345 1936 | candlesanddecor@lantic.net www.candlesanddecor.co.za

65

All Made Up NO REGRETS “I wish I had given my bridesmaid my lipstick and gloss. I was so aware of my dry lips and with all the kissing and photos I just needed to moisten my lips and touch up during the reception.”

66

– Kyra

Sean Baker

ALL MADE UP

A FLAWLESS FINISH Airbrush make-up is an ideal option for brides wanting a flawless finish. It is a light-weight make-up applied through an air gun machine that produces a thin, even layer of make-up and creates a very natural appearance.

Because it’s such a fine mist, your true skin tone shows through, making it very natural.

Professional Make-up Artist Make-up, Hair Styling Airbrush Make-up Make-up Lessons & Workshops

Airbrush foundation is high in coverage but thin in texture. It lies on top of your skin and fills in any flaws, instead of accentuating them, giving a velvety matte poreless finish so you never look shiny. It’s silicone based, non-toxic and hypoallergenic and does not attract germs like sponges and brushes do.

Alana-Jane Halgreen 082 357 5714 alana@kissandmake-up.co.za www.kissandmake-up.co.za

It’s great on textured skins, acne, wrinkles, open pores, pigmentation, scars, bruising, blemishes, tattoos, rosacea, burns and even psoriasis. It allows the skin to breathe, so it feels like you’re not wearing any foundation at all and gives you the ‘no make-up’ look.

The last thing you need to worry about is your make-up wearing off on your wedding day. Airbrush make-up is waterproof and will last until you wash your face. It does not need powdering or touching up and will stand up to sweat, tears, hugs and all the kisses in-between. You can do as much cheek-to-cheek dancing as you’d like without worrying about it rubbing off.

Because of these characteristics, it’s the ideal choice for the bride who wants to have more fun without worrying about her appearance all day.

By Kiss & Make-up www.kissandmake-up.co.za Kiss & Make-up

67

Candice Matthee: 083 756 6013 | info@blushmakeup.co.za www.blushmakeup.co.za @Blush_makeupdurban

68

Blush Pro Makeup - By Candice Matthee

Darrel Collins

Dean Demos

As the bride, you will be the centre of attention and you’ll want your hair to look fabulous and last all day. There are many factors that play a part when choosing your hairstyle for your wedding.

Most importantly, your hair should complement your wedding gown. If your dress is an extravagant ballgown, you can go with a dramatic up style. For a chic, modern or more simple dress, either slick your hair back or consider a more subtle, elegant updo. Country weddings with soft, flowing dresses lend themselves to loose curls, possibly adorned with small flowers, or tied back in a loose pony.

A dress with a gorgeous open back, lace or buttons calls for a side pony or braid that won’t hide the detail. You will also need to consider the season and weather conditions, how your hair holds and the accessories and style of your veil.

Visit your hairstylist regularly before your wedding and leave plenty of time to experiment if you are planning a new style, colour or any change, in case the result isn’t what you expected, and you want to fix it. Avoid dramatic changes – now is not the time to try out a completely new look! Plan to trim your ends a few months before the wedding day for healthy looking hair and be sure to keep it well nourished. Your hairstylist will be able to recommend products to help achieve optimally healthy hair and will offer expertise to ensure that your hairstyle is timeless and will look fabulous throughout the celebration.

ALL MADE UP

BRIDAL HAIR TIPS

Once you’ve decided on your style, it’s important to have a trial run with your hairstylist. Take photos of what you want as well as your hair accessories and/or veil and a photo of your wedding dress. If you can coordinate to have your make-up trial on the same day as your hair trial, you will be able to see what the overall effect will be which will reduce the stress of the ‘unknown’ on the day.

Midlands based bridal styling service hitchedhairandmakeup@gmail.com www.hitchedhairandmakeup.co.za

Hitched Hair and Makeup

hitchedhairandmakeup

69

Darrel Collins

All Dressed Up NO REGRETS “I wish I had chosen a more suitable dress for our outdoor wedding. By the end of the night, the bottom was all brown and I would have had more fun if it was more comfortable to dance in.”

70

– Kim

Ordering dresses can take up to 6 months to arrive and you may need extra time for alterations.

Allowing enough time will make the process as stress-free as possible.

Even if you are planning on losing weight or toning up, it is better to start trying on wedding gowns sooner than later. It is important to get a feel for the various dresses, so you can start an elimination process.

Keep an open mind when trying on dresses, especially when it comes to alterations. Dresses can be fitted and altered to your body shape accordingly. Certain alterations can also be done to make your dress more unique, such as adding beadwork, lace appliqués or straps.

Set a realistic budget; always ask prices before trying on dresses as you don’t want to fall in love with a dress that’s out of your price range.

ALL DRESSED UP

WEDDING DRESS SHOPPING TIPS

Once you have found your dress stop looking as this can lead to more confusion and uncertainty.

This should be a fun, happy process so enjoy your dress shopping journey!

By Belle & Bravado www.bellebravado.com

Be open to trying on different styles. You may have something specific in mind as your dream dress or think you know what flatters you, but you could be pleasantly surprised by a style or silhouette you never thought would suit you.

Know your body shape and size as certain silhouettes are better suited to certain figures.

Bring a select few people to the appointments as too many people may cloud your ideas of what you like. It is also the bride’s day – she must be happy with what she is wearing. It’s not the families, fiancés or friend’s choice, it is the bride’s.

Wear the appropriate underwear as this will make you feel more comfortable in the fitting room with the consultant and give you a better look and feel for the dresses you are trying on.

‘Wow’ moments are rare; it often takes time to decide on your wedding dress. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t have the ‘Wow’ moment.

Neville Nixon

71

This beautiful sheath style dress has a Chantilly lace bodice and tulle skirt. An illusion neckline moves into the sheer lace bodice that is a soft ivory. The skirt is an exquisite blush pink, layered to create movement and the soft ivory satin trim around the waist completes the romantic look of the dress.

This dress suits most body shapes and can be styled with beautiful accessories to suit your personality.

Belle & Bravado

• Suit Hire: For all Occasions • Multi Way Dresses Made in Store • Wedding Dresses: Hire & Purchase of Exclusive Imported Gowns • Accessories: Men’s & Bridal • Alterations to Wedding Dresses • New Imported Ready to Wear Women’s Clothing Line Bookings Essential! • 033 394 3672 • info@bellebravado.com • www.bellebravado.com

72

Follow us on:

We look forward to helping you find the perfect fit!

ALL DRESSED UP

Come to Bella Bride for a beautiful selection of exquisitely hand crafted, imported or custom-made wedding gowns.

You can find us at The Wedding CafĂŠ, 72 Old Main Rd, Kloof Call 074 131 5415 to make your appointment www.bellabride.co.za

This classic A-line Ash wedding dress with her illusion off-the-shoulder, Queen Anne neckline and intriguing scalloped lace V-shaped back with buttons on the illusion mesh, is sure to surprise your groom and guests. Made from full lace with sequins, her full bust, hip and waist definition creates beautiful curves and is the ideal shape for most body types.

Bella Bride

We used a waist length, double layer veil with beautiful beadwork to complement the sequined detail of the dress.

Chandelier diamantĂŠ-style earrings would complete the look.

73

Meliza Mary

This elegant custom-made designer A-line dress with hand-appliquĂŠd lace on the bodice and sleeves is finished off with a button detail on the back. The gentle flowing style has symmetrical lace placements over the collar, sleeves and bodice, bleeding down onto the skirt. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s made from two layers of georgette over a soft satin foundation with embroidery lace and covered buttons.

This style is a classic, suitable for an hourglass or pear shape body as it accentuates the waist and shoulder line.

Pair this dress with simple delicate accessories. Avoid a necklace, so that it doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t compete with the neckline. Keep the veil simple and long.

A private boutique providing unforgettable experiences to brides in search of their dream dress www.meliza.co.za melizamaryforthebride @melizamarybridal

072 200 2621 info@meliza.co.za Based in Durban North by appointment only

Collection | Bespoke | Accessories 74

ALL DRESSED UP

This delicate feminine-inspired wedding gown in winter white tones is completed with subtle Swarovski crystals that twinkle like dew drops on selected flowers. The slim cut underskirt in caddy satin and bodice in a delicate 3D flower lace lends itself to a comfortable easy-to-move-in dress.

The bias binding edge on the bodice accentuates both the front neckline and open back plunging V. A super soft tulle removable skirt and shoulder bows give you the opportunity to change your look as your day goes by.

To finish off this look a simple long veil and pearl drop earrings are all you need to walk towards your husband to be.

ElrĂŠ attire designs

75

Bridesmaids • Mothers of the Bride & Groom Plus sizes available

Michelle: 083 671 606 • luvandlace@gmail.com 111 Oxford Village, Hillcrest

Luv n' Lace

Luv n’ Lace

Luv n’ Lace

76

ALL DRESSED UP 77 David Weeks

THE GALLANT GROOM Remember that the wedding stars two people, so when it comes to choosing your attire, the groom has an opportunity to make a statement just as much as the bride and your personal style should be reflected in your wedding day fashion.

If you prefer to steer away from tradition, explore the trending royal blue suit to make your statement, or more cheeky checks for a fun, rustic vibe. If a whole suit is too bold for you, tone it down by wearing only the jacket or waistcoat.

Sean Baker

If you’re opting for a formal event, the black tie is still the way to go for that sophisticated, confident look, especially if you wear a suit most days and want something different.

Discuss your choices with your groomsmen, who probably also prefer to reflect their personality, so give them some options. Although they do not all need to match, they should coordinate with the rest of the bridal party. You can add a touch of humour and emphasise your individuality with colourful socks and accessories or use neckwear to tie it all together.

Wild Olive Photography

Wild Olive Photography

For a more relaxed style, a light jacket is an obvious choice, especially if your colour scheme is soft and romantic. It’s ideal for summer or a daytime wedding but combine it with a dark shirt such as burgundy, and you’re set for your Autumn or evening celebration.

78

ALL DRESSED UP

One aspect that should not be overlooked is your footwear.

No matter how casual your outfit or setting, your shoes should always look dressy and make sure that they are polished and ready to complement your outfit.

Sean Baker

Whether you are buying or hiring your suit, do not leave the arrangements for the last minute! You should finalise your hire reservations at least 2 to 3 months before the wedding date, especially if it’s a large wedding party all requiring the same style of suit and accessories.

Most importantly, make sure that you and your groomsmen are comfortable with whatever you decide to wear and enjoy the day.

Offering a wide range of suit hire and accessories.

Step out in style when you visit Belle & Bravado! www.bellebravado.com • 033 394 3672

Weddings • Work Functions • Matric Dances • Special Occasions

www.debonairsuithire.co.za 031 764 3133

Shop 238 Kloof Village Mall, Village Rd & Old Main Rd, Kloof

79

Sean Baker

Setting the Scene NO REGRETS “I regret doing so much of the décor myself. I didn’t realise how much time and effort it would take. I also ended up spending my wedding morning working instead of relaxing and getting ready early.”

80

– Liz

Our predictions for wedding décor in the year ahead is bright, cheerful, well-designed and eccentrically wonderful.

Greenery has been big and will definitely be sticking around, so it’s safe to go for something wild and naturally eye-catching by mixing an array of seasonal foliage.

The new hottest wedding flower is the delightful Dahlia, which comes in a huge range of colours and is available in the summer months, making it one of the most versatile wedding blooms obtainable. For winter months Alstroemerias, Snapdragons and Stocks will keep you on budget.

As bespoke planners, we are beyond excited that clients are now super receptive to the whole ‘experience concept’. No longer are brides and grooms choosing random suppliers to be part of their team, but they are now choosing to work with planners who create a journey and experience for all the guests to enjoy.

This can be from customizing invitations to delightfully wonderful styling – creating a wedding experience that stays with your guests long after the wedding day itself.

SETTING THE SCENE

TEN HOT DÉCOR TRENDS

Blush and rose gold are completely ‘last season’. Work with natural and brighter colours with hand painted vessels, glassware and hints of metallics. No more mason jars!

Jewel tones are the in-thing for a striking and moody look to your day or mix several shades from the same palette to create a fresh and on-trend feel to your décor styling. Colours like burgundy, emerald green, amethyst, ruby and topaz can make a stunning backdrop. Choose one or two or add the entire lot together for an over the top look. Keep your bridesmaids in stylish, elegant numbers and let the flowers do the talking.

If you would like your wedding day to be more subdued, keep your décor elegant by adding in simplistic lines, glassware and a vibrant colour pallet on your crockery or wedding stationery for the day.

Installations will continue to be the focal point at weddings in different shapes and instead of spheres and domes, more amassed focal floral delights will be seen. You do need a professional to do this as it must be installed well so, unfortunately, no DIY here.

Sean Baker

81

Dean Demos

Destination weddings are still the trend and we are spoilt for choice with many beautiful spots in KwaZulu-Natal.

Most venues offer you a special rate to take over the entire venue for the weekend. This way you can really spend quality time with all those special people in your lives and will make your wedding celebrations a topic of conversation for years to come.

Wonderful Winter Weddings are the in thing. With delightful wedding dress cape designs, you will be warm enough outside while you have your styled photo shoot and cosy indoors with romantic fires and custom designed food stations to keep your guests entertained.

‘Unplugged’ weddings are the only way to ensure your guests are in every moment and not experiencing your day through a screen. Simply add a sign to suggest this.

Photographers will appreciate this as devices are uncool during those special moments of the ‘I do’s’.

By Midlands Style Events www.midlandsstyleevents.co.za

Here’s to a bright, cheerful year ahead. Happy planning.

DÉCOR • FLOWERS • CO-ORDINATION • PLANNING • HIRING

Your local wedding supplier in Nottingham Road Ester: 082 651 0831 Sam: 084 054 9999 mseinfo@mweb.co.za www.midlandsstyleevents.co.za midlandsstyleevents

By Appointment Only 82

SETTING THE SCENE

Midlands Style Events

Saysha Baker

Midlands Style Events

83

Muirhead’s Hiring

While our competitors strive for Quality, Punctuality and Excellence, we Guarantee it.

“Thank you so much for your time and professionalism.

It's so good to know that there are still businesses that do not put money first but truly care about their clients/ customers, I am deeply touched.”

MARQUEES • DRAPING LIGHTING • FURNITURE LINEN • QUALITY DECOR

Ph oto

s: Pa u

lM

ur ra

y

Muirhead’s Hiring

CUTLERY • CROCKERY GLASSWARE • GAMES

Veronica: 033 3943 933 • www.muirheadshiring.co.za • order@muirheadshiring.co.za • Facebook: /muirheadshiring

84

SETTING THE SCENE

Natural Nostalgia

WHAT YOU ALWAYS WANTED TO KNOW ABOUT FLORAL DESIGN WHAT IS FLORAL DESIGN? First and foremost, floral design is an art form. It is an outward expression or application of human creative skill and imagination using flowers and plant material to create something beautiful. It is the perfect complement to creating a gorgeous setting for your wedding day.

WHICH FLOWERS ARE BEST FOR MY WEDDING? There are some ‘wedding-worthy’ flowers that can be used for most arrangements. Use a variety of foliage and flowers such as Roses, Lisianthus, Delphinium, Lysmachia

and Hydrangeas (to name a few) and a mix of fynbos.

You can also use succulents, Aloes, air plants and other local flora. Avoid imported flowers if you are on a tight budget and ensure the quality is good as these flowers do spend more time in travel.

WHICH FLOWERS ARE THE MOST EXPENSIVE? Seasonality plays a big role in the price of flowers, as well as demand and supply. We often get asked the question: “What’s cheaper than Roses?” And the answer is: “Well, not much!” Roses are well priced in comparison to most flowers and can be used sparingly with maximum impact.

85

We get the most gorgeous Roses from the local market and from some farms in the KZN Midlands with lovely big heads that open beautifully.

There is also a common misconception that Baby’s Breath (Gypsophila) is a ‘cheap’ flower but the price is quite high relative to the size of the bundle. Peonies are another flower loved and adored by all. They are grown in South Africa but only for one month of the year, and depending on the weather, it’s somewhere around October/November. A lot of our good quality Peonies are exported which leaves the local market with a few leftovers. Imported Peonies are available from May to August, springtime in the Northern Hemisphere.

HOW DO I BUDGET FOR MY WEDDING FLOWERS? It is best to set-up a meeting with your chosen floral designer and find out what flowers will be in season. Ask

86

Wild Olive Photography

them to do a quote for you, based on your ideas, your wedding date and your chosen venue. It is important to remember that you are not just paying for the purchase of the flowers so don’t compare prices to store-bought flowers. There is a huge amount of time, labour and skill that goes into wedding flowers, not to mention materials, consumables and transport.

WHAT’S ON TREND? Some good news! Foliage and anything green and lush is trending now, and we expect this will continue.

Foliage is more reasonably priced than flowers, but remember to get the lush look, quite a lot of foliage is often used. Your floral designer will assist with a recommendation of what flowers and foliage you should use and what containers suit them.

By Natural Nostalgia www.naturalnostalgia.co.za

Saysha Baker

SETTING THE SCENE

Natural Nostalgia at Netherwood

FLORAL STYLING, DECOR HIRE & EVENT PLANNING 072 954 7762 | 033 330 5621 | INFO@NATURALNOSTALGIA.CO.ZA natural_nostalgia NaturalNostalgia WWW.NATURALNOSTALGIA.CO.ZA

87

Event & Wedding Specialist +27 79 427 0869 +27 33 330 7485 nokuthula@africanchild.co.za www.africanchild.co.za africanchildevents

African Child Events

Contemporary and Elegant Furniture for Hire for Weddings, Parties and Events

072 062 7078 | laurie@bundunet.com | www.lauriekohrs.com Nottingham Road, KwaZulu-Natal Midlands

88

Laurie Kohrs

SETTING THE SCENE

ETC Events by Sean Baker

Pe ta l s F i n e F l o w e r s

@ Pe ta l s f i n e f l o w e r s

ANNIE HEDLEY b espoke f low ers

Petals Fine Flowers

082 411 1110 â&#x20AC;¢ 033 266 6454 i n f o @ p e ta l s - m i d l a n d s . c o m w w w . p e ta l s - m i d l a n d s . c o m

89

Sights NO REGRETS “I regret not hiring a videographer. There were so many details and parts of our day that were special and the memories are fading already! I wish I could replay my vows and the speeches which were amazing.”

90

– Alex Neville Nixon

Unlike the worn-out dance floor that goes quiet, the speeches that get absorbed, or the guest list that disappears at the end of the night, it is the captured moments that make your special day truly memorable. From the silhouettes against the setting sun, or the raindrops caught in the light, to the laughter and loving gazes captured with the lens, choosing the right photographer is one of the most important decisions you will make. Here are ten tips that will help:

SIGHTS

FINDING THE RIGHT PHOTOGRAPHER

DECIDE WHAT STYLE YOU LIKE Most photographers will tend to shoot in their own style, whether it’s creative, artistic, documentary, dramatic or lifestyle. You can go with something that is classic and traditional, natural and fun, or even bold and unique.

The important thing is to match the photographer’s style with your desired aesthetic, though experienced photographers will be able to shoot a variety of styles, depending on your requests.

SPEND WHAT YOU CAN AFFORD Know what your budget is but don’t skimp here. An excellent photographer will be expensive, but one of the biggest regrets most couples have is not hiring the best they could afford. Remember, you are entrusting them with your lifelong memories and having these documented well is worth it.

DO YOUR RESEARCH Read through client feedback, see how the photographer responds, and check out their websites and blogs. Browsing through hundreds of photography websites can be daunting, so we suggest you begin by viewing our recommended photographers in this section and on the Marriage Meander website.

MEET THE PHOTOGRAPHER Going from photo samples alone is never a good idea.

It’s important to meet potential photographers in person to make sure you are on the same page.

Sean Baker at Calderwood

Apart from viewing their work, talk about your venue, your wedding style, and what you envision your dream wedding to be. Bridal fairs provide a great opportunity for this, or you can join a Marriage Meander Journey to meet a few trusted photographers in person.

91

David Weeks

VIEW A COMPLETE ALBUM Every photographer will have a portfolio to feature their best work, but this doesn’t give you a well-rounded idea of their skills. It is recommended that you ask for 2–3 examples of weddings that they have done at a similar venue that you envision yours to be. View each album with a critical eye and look out for the sharpness of the images, the lighting, and the composition.

MAKE SURE YOU LIKE YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER It is necessary that you are comfortable with and trust your chosen photographer as they will be very much a part of your day. You don’t want a photographer that is going to annoy guests or cause you to feel anxious. Your personalities need to be compatible and they should be able to put you at ease as well as bring the best out of you and the guests.

COMPARE PACKAGES Most photographers offer different packages to suit various budgets and desires. Understand what each includes and realise that you are paying for the photographer’s time on the day, the editing, your photographs and albums or products that come with it.

92

CONSIDER A SECOND SHOOTER If your budget allows, consider hiring a second shooter as this will ensure that no tender moment is missed. Some photographers will provide a second shooter as part of the package. A suggestion is for one photographer to capture professional moments and the other to capture the ‘behind-the-scenes’.

ASK ABOUT BACKUPS Confirm if the photographer you are hiring has backup equipment and makes backup copies of all the images they take. This is critical for avoiding issues like malfunctioning equipment or lost wedding photos.

LEAVE THEM TO DO THEIR JOB Once you’ve hired the right photographer, you can rely on them to capture and deliver your precious moments that will tell your story. Allow them to do their job before as well as on the day, knowing they will handle your wedding from start to finish. Remember, hiring service providers you trust will ensure you enjoy your day.

SIGHTS

David Weeks

P A SSION GR A C E R OMA NC E LOV E

Sean Baker

WWW.SEANBAKERPHOTOGRAPHY.CO.ZA

93

Dean Demos

www.nevillenixonphotography.co.za | 083 775 1347

Different

DARE TO BE Neville Nixon

94

SIGHTS

Wild Olive Photography

TIMING YOUR WEDDING So much time and effort go into planning your day, you want to make sure that the timing of your wedding is correct to avoid delays, rushing or having to skip parts to make sure everything runs smoothly without ending too late.

The best light for your couples Creative Shoot is normally during the late afternoon. An hour before sunset on your day is a decent time to start these shots. timeanddate.com is a good website to use for sunset times. Working out this time first is a great place to start when planning your wedding.

Communicate this to your make-up artist so she can work out a start time for makeup, depending on the number of bridesmaids & others.

Your hair and make-up should be complete about 1 ½ hours before the ceremony. This will give you ample time for some great ‘bride tribe’ and ‘getting ready’ shots as well as photos of you in your dress, with mum etc.

Allow some time to mingle with your guests after the wedding ceremony. Your guests will want to congratulate you and say ‘Hi’, so enjoy this time and don’t be too hasty to rush off for your creative shoot. Some brides choose to cut the cake during this time.

Depending on your ceremony type, you can look at allocating between 30 minutes to 1 hour for the “I do’s”.

95

Group photos are an important aspect (these are the ones mum and gran will want) so allow about 30 minutes for these, depending on how many family photos you need. As a guide, eight group photos is normally sufficient.

Your couples creative shoot normally takes around 45 – 60 minutes. Confirm this with the photographer and remember that you do not want to leave your guests waiting for too long. Give yourself a bit of time after the shoot to breathe, ‘powder your nose’ and take it all in before entering your reception..

By Wild Olive Photography www.wildolivephoto.co.za

Saysha Baker

Saysha Baker P H OTO G R APH Y

info@sayshabaker.co.za www.sayshabaker.co.za

96

SIGHTS

www.darrelcollinsphotography.com

photography@darrelcollins.co.za | 082 921 5989

Wild Olive Photography

Darrel Collins

97

THE VALUE OF VIDEO

Dean Demos

Your wedding day will be viewed from many perspectives. You will enjoy the build-up of getting to the chapel, the feeling of anticipation as you walk down the aisle, the excitement as you see each other for the first time, and the overwhelming joy as you hear your fiancé say “I do”.

How long will those memories linger? Having a video that has captured those special moments will last a lifetime and allow you to relive your day as often as you like. It will also enable you to see all the emotion and details you may have missed because you were so enthralled with one another or parts of the day that you may have rehearsed but were not able to witness, such as your flower girls walking down the aisle scattering petals ahead of you. A video will bring to life the sights and sounds of your wedding. You will be able to hear your vows and see the look in your partner’s eyes as they were said and be moved once again as you watch your first dance.

When selecting a videographer, many of the same criteria for choosing your photographer apply.

Videographers also have varying styles, present their work in different ways and offer various packages. It’s important to view examples of their previous work as you’ll soon know if you like what you see. Make sure you like the person/people who will be filming you on the day and select a company according to your preferences and budget.

Quality is a key consideration. Filming in high quality is something you’ll certainly appreciate and be sure to check what is included – a short highlights clip, the speeches, ceremony, and opening dance? When discussing details, make sure you mention which special moments you’d like to have captured. If you’ve planned a surprise for your fiancé or guests, or if your entrance

98

song is significant, brief them about these details so they are well prepared. Videographers are usually very approachable and normally willing to adapt their technique for you or add something specific if you request it.

Magic happens when you put movement to music and it’s not surprising that finding the right videographer has become an essential part of wedding planning.

SIGHTS

Beyond Measure

Neville Nixon

99

David Weeks

PRODUCTIONS Specialising in Weddings and Special Occasions

Preserving your special memories for years to come. steve@dvdvideoproductions.co.za

www.dvdvideoproductions.co.za y ph ra ngs g i o de dd al Vi r we peci s s fo nd sion a cca o

Steve

083 292 0446 Darrel Collins

100

SIGHTS

THE SELFIE

MIRROR CAPTURE

THE MOMENT THE SELFIE MIRROR IS THE LATEST AND HOTTEST TWIST ON THE TRADITIONAL PHOTO BOOTH CONCEPT TO HIT THE EVENT SPACE. WHETHER A WEDDING, BIRTHDAY PARTY, CHRISTMAS PARTY, PROMOTIONAL EVENT OR ANY SORT OF PRIVATE OR CORPORATE EVENT, OUR MAGICAL DIGITAL PHOTO BOOTH WILL KEEP YOU AND YOUR GUESTS TRULY ENTERTAINED.

how it works Stand in front of The Selfie Mirror and capture special selfies & memories Approve or delete each captured selfie Approved selfies upload automatically to a selected platform where event participants can access, tag and share their selfies using the event hashtag

@SELFIEMIRRORSA @SELFIEMIRRORSA INFO@SELFIEMIRROR.CO.ZA WWW.SELFIEMIRROR.CO.ZA

Neville Nixon

101

Beyond Measure

Sounds NO REGRETS

102

“We regret hiring our DJ based on cost. We spent so much on our wedding day and wanted to have a real party. Apart from not playing any of our requests, the quality of sound and choice of music wasn’t conducive to keeping the dance floor moving.” – P & T

FROM A DJ’S PERSPECTIVE 1 Hire waiters to serve drinks to the guests if the bar is not in the same room. You don’t want people milling around the bar rather than dancing.

2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

SOUNDS

10 TOP TIPS FOR A GREAT WEDDING RECEPTION

Make sure your MC has a great personality and is not shy or nervous.

Wait for everyone to finish dessert before you do your first dance and open the dance floor. This is especially important if your dessert is plated, as everyone will leave the dance floor to eat dessert.

Cut the cake after the ceremony, so guests actually eat it and it provides a talking point and snack while you are on your creative shoot. Do not cut the cake after the first dance… ever!

Don’t start the dancing until all the meals are done.

Place the DJ table right in front of the dance floor.

Use a black tablecloth for the DJ’s table – this will hide most of the cables.

The DJ will need to place the speakers fairly close to the dance floor. As they will be placed against a wall, ensure that no tables are in the way.

Keep the speaker placement in mind when doing your table layout – don’t seat your grandparents on the tables next to the speakers.

Do the garter and bouquet tossing before your first dance. This way you don’t stop and start the party.

By The Wedding DJ www.theweddingdj.co.za

Beyond Measure

103

MOBILE DJ SERVICES â&#x20AC;¢ PROFESSIONAL DJ AGENCY Allan McCabe | 072 557 5339 | info@djworx.co.za www.djworx.co.za Wild Olive Photography

Professional sound & dJ for Weddings & events Hire of led uPligHting & gobo ProJectors WitH monograms 082 406 8242 | carl@soundsensation.co.za www.soundsensation.co.za Photo: Neville Nixon

104

Saysha Baker

SOUNDS

10 POPULAR FIRST DANCE SONGS These are currently the most popular songs for the first dance:

Perfect

Ed Sheeran with Beyoncé

Thinking out loud Ed Sheeran

Thousand Years

Christina Perri (Looks like this one will be popular for a thousand years)

Say you won’t let go James Arthur

All of me

John Legend

How long will I love you Ellie Goulding

Tenerife Sea Ed Sheeran

Better Together Jack Johnson

I’ll be there for you Parlotones

Feels like home Chantal Kreviazuk

With thanks to The Wedding DJ Saysha Baker

105

Live Music

DJ Services www.5thseasonmusic.co.za

Saysha Baker

Life is music

La vie câ&#x20AC;&#x2122;est de la Musique

RenĂŠ Tshiakanyi Songs in French, English, Afrikaans and Portuguese for weddings and corporate functions 084 674 6819 / renetshiakanyi@gmail.com wwww.soundcloud.com/renetshiakanyi Saysha Baker

106

Saysha Baker at Crystal Barn

Just the two of us NO REGRETS “We wish we had taken a day or two off to rest between the wedding and the honeymoon. We were so exhausted, we spent the first 2 days of our week holiday recovering.”

– Greg & Jen

TOP TIPS FOR YOUR HONEYMOON After the hustle and bustle of the wedding, you will probably be looking forward to your honeymoon more than ever. It is a once-in-a-lifetime vacation, a time to bond and renew your romance. Whether you prefer something exotic and adventurous or quiet and peaceful, you only have the two of you to consider, so make sure you agree and make it memorable.

PLAN AHEAD

DON’T RUSH IT

Every vacation requires planning and your honeymoon should be approached with a great deal of thought.

Planning need not be difficult or confusing and researching your honeymoon online will save a lot of time. Visit travel agents and travel expos for ideas and if you need help with planning logistics.

After the planning and busy wedding festivities, the last thing you should be looking for is a hectic honeymoon or a quick getaway. To properly unwind and relax, you should plan your honeymoon for at least 10 to 14 days.

Try to stay in one destination for at least 3 days to have the best experience.

DECIDE ON YOUR DESTINATION

DON’T OVERDO IT

South Africa has some amazing honeymoon destinations.

Whether you dream of relaxing on the beach, scenic walks in the Drakensberg or an encounter in the wild on a Safari, look close to home and you will be impressed by the choices KZN has to offer. Some of our favourite romantic getaways are listed here.

Avoid trying to do everything in the limited amount of time that you have. The more you put on your plate, the more stress there is and in the end, you won’t be able to enjoy any of it. You will want to spend time enjoying each other, not rushing around.

BOOK IN ADVANCE

Your budget will affect where you will go, what you will do and how long you will stay. Although you shouldn’t let cost destroy your dream, you also don’t want to be paying off your honeymoon for years to come, or have it put a strain on your finances as newlyweds. Discuss what is most important to both of you, be realistic and reasonable and you may find that a few compromises allow you essentially what you wanted in the first place.

Once you have decided where to go, it is important to book ahead of time. Even if you are a ‘risk-taker’, on-arrival bookings are not a good idea on your honeymoon, especially during peak vacation season.

Booking ahead guarantees availability and you might find great deals and better rates. When making the booking, be sure to let them know you are honeymooners!

STICK TO YOUR BUDGET

KEEP IT SIMPLE When travelling to a place that you are not familiar with, it is often best to opt for a fully inclusive package. It may include everything ranging from accommodation, transport, tours, meals, etc. These packages are often more economical and prevent you from the tedious task of searching and making individual bookings.

108

Neville Nixon

Sani Valley Nature Resort

Sani Valley Nature Resort

Sani Valley Nature Resort

JUST THE TWO OF US

Sani Valley Nature Resort

109

Umngazi River Bungalows & Spa

110

Umngazi River Bungalows & Spa

JUST THE TWO OF US

Come let the Spirit of Africa touch your soul

Romantic Honeymoon Destination Leopard Walk Lodge

035 940 0801 | info@leopardwalklodge.co.za | www.leopardwalklodge.co.za

Neville Nixon

111

Bonamanzi

112

Neville Nixon

1 0 Y E A R A N N I V E R S A RY E D I T I O N

THE FINAL NOTE… Ten years ago, I had an opportunity from which I shaped a vision – to create useful, inspiring, stylish resources for couples getting married. It’s been an incredible journey with paths being directed by rapidly changing technology. From humble beginnings of our first 36page booklet, we’ve gone beyond the pages of a print publication to create a content-rich Website and interactive wedding planning App and our Marriage Meander Journeys are a testament to our belief in the importance of human connection. We have come a long

Y O U R

W E D D I N G

P L A N N I N G

J O U R N E Y

way and where we are today has been made possible by extraordinary people who serve the wedding industry with passion and go to work each day not only with their creative genius but with their soul.

Thank you to all those whom we’ve worked with and who have supported us, to clients who have become friends – it’s been a privilege and I look forward to walking the next part of the journey with you.

Love, Nikki

DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE APP TO PLAN YOUR WEDDING THE SIMPLE WAY...

‘WEDPLAN’ App ♡ Wedding Planning Tools: ★ 12-month checklist ★ Budget ★ Venue details & rates ★ Guest list RSVPs ★ Seating plan & more

♡ Wedding Guide: ★ The best venues ★ Find all your suppliers ★ Galleries, tips & inspiration ♡ Personal Journal

R45.00

www.marriagemeander.co.za

TAKE THE STRESS OUT OF YOUR WEDDING PLANNING! Scan this QR code or download your free App from the Apple® or Google Play™ stores.