My harusi magazine sep dec 2013

My Harusi

From Yes, Ido, to ever after

Life Stlye

Finding The one

Kitchen Talk Cookng your way into your mans heart

Weddings Bells Laura & Kerah From Yes, I do, to ever after

My Harusi Sep-Dec 2013

1 Sep-Dec 2013

From Yes, Ido, to ever after

From Yes The Proposal

Editor Thitu Kariba

Contributors

To I Do

Timothi Gichuru Namwano Shichende The Healing Ambassado Corazon Achieng

And ever after

Pamba Boma

Bride, groom, cake, decor, transport, traditions, rings, jewelery , photos, venue, catering, etertainment

Fashion, Kitchen, Home and decor, marrigae, relationships, healh

Wedding bells Kerah and Laura

Photographer Thitu Kariba

Grafix and Lay out Thitu Kariba

Special thanks God Almighty Kerah and Larura

My Harusi Sep-Dec 2013

From Yes, Ido, to ever after

Karibu For many years Harusi group has concentrated on the Harusi magazine, we called it that because it was all about preparing the bride of Christ. Its target audience are the youth, and single adults. We know that in order to be one with another, you have to be whole first. We understand that everything physical comes from the spiritual and so we chose to start there.

Today we are proud and honored to give you My Harusi magazine, this is a play by play from yes, to I do and ever after. we understand that popping the question is not always easy so here we are to help you through. Some people know exactly what they want but the execution can be a bit of a challenge so once again here we are.

We want to cover every angle of your big day and help you along the way. we give ideas, advice and help you get in touch with the ones who can make your dream wedding come true. We welcome you to seek and we shall help you find the right person for to help you at every stage.

In this issue we feature a wonderful couple who just celebrated their wedding anniversary and have been blessed with a beautiful family. We want to celebrate you regardless of when you had that big day, featuring couples is a great way to celebrate your lives together, how far you have come and the commitment to how far you still choose to go... all the way.

If you are a couple who would like to be featured in our magazine please feel free to write to us. If you would like to show case your pictures as a couple or just as a wedding service provider, please again feel free to contact us. This big day is big work, it is always great to see and hear from they that have been there and they whose job it is to get you there.

We will not keep you any longer.. we say Karibu and enjoy dreaming and making plans for My Harusi ( My/your wedding) Thitu

My Harusi Sep-Dec 2013

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From Yes, Ido, to ever after

Which Hand and Finger for the Engagement Ring?

An engagement ring is worn as a sign of commitment that the wearer is spoken for and intends to get married. The ring is presented to the woman by the man who intends to marry her. The dilemma comes to the decision of which finger to slip it into. Different cultures have diverse beliefs and practices that govern the placement of the engagement ring. Another practice that is steadily catching on is where the man is also presented with an engagement ring by the lady. This is however not a very common practice in most cultures and it depends on the particular couple.

My Wedding Proposal In some central European countries like Spain and France the engagement ring is worn on the middle finger of the right hand. The reason is due to the Latin word for ‘left’ which is closely translated to ‘sinister’ in English. This negative belief leads to the right hand middle finger being the best choice since the Latin word for ‘right’ can be translated to ‘dexterity’ in English.

The Jewish culture expects the bride to wear her engagement ring on her right hand during the ceremony and put it back on the left hand after the ceremony, next to the wedding band.

Finger sizes matter depending on activity and time of day and the choice of engagement rings should take this into consideration. Since most married ladies wear the wedding and engagement ring on the same finger on the left hand. It is practical to get a ring that will fit into this finger comfortably. When this is not the case and the ring changes hands and fingers after the ceremony then the ring will have to be resized to fit. This may however prove difficult especially for rings that come as a set so special consideration has to be made in such cases.

The ring finger is thought to have had many origins. One is during catholic marriage ceremonies, where the groom places the ring on top of each of the fingers on the left hand of the bride, starting with the thumb, before finally slipping it into the fourth finger. He would In most Western countries the engagement do this as the priest would bless the couple’s ring is worn on the left hand and on the fourth marriage in the name of the Father, Son and the finger next to the pinky finger. Other customs Holy Spirit, with each finger representing one of have the ring worn on the middle finger of the the persons of the Trinity. left hand. In some Eastern European countries such as Poland and Ukraine the engagement ring is worn on the right hand. The placement of the engagement ring is also governed by ancient cultural practices such as the Romans who believed that there is a vein connecting the heart and the left hand middle finger. And since the heart is believed to be the root of all things love then this finger is normally considered to be appropriate.

My Harusi Sep-Dec 2013

From Yes, Ido, to ever after

My Wedding Plan

How to Pick a Wedding Date

One of the most important considerations when planning a wedding is picking the wedding date. This is an important considerations since if you were to pick the wrong date, there is a risk of inconveniencing some people, there is a chance of some people failing to turn up for the wedding, there is a risk of holding the wedding under unfavorable weather conditions, there is a risk of getting the facilities and/or the caterers and entertainers you want, and there is a risk of paying a lot for the facilities and/or the caterers and entertainers you want. The tips outlined below will help you when choosing a wedding date

•You should contact the most important people in the wedding to get information on their availablility before setting a wedding date.

This is because the wedding cannot go on if the pastor/sheik/rabbi is not present and if the parents are not present.

•You should consider availability of the preferred wedding venue when making your wedding plan.

•You should consider getting a cool wedding date such as 12/12/12 or something very significant to you two.

•You should consider whether there are other weddings in the near future. You should not schedule your wedding date near another wedding, especially that of a colleague, a family member, or a friend.

•When choosing the wedding date, consider your particular preferences. If you have always wanted to have a garden wedding, set the date during a summer month so that you can have the perfect weather.

•You should consider the day of the week when making the wedding plan. This is because some days are more expensive than others. If you are on a budget, avoid Saturdays.

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From Yes, Ido, to ever after

The Bride

What’s Your Body Type? There Is A Wedding Dress For You!

Pear Shape – The pear shape is small up top with narrow shoulders and has wide hips.

You want to wear a dress with an empire waist also known as an A line wedding dress. This dress will flow in such a way that it does not emphasize your naturally wide hips and thick thighs. If your bust and upper body are significantly small, get a V necked wedding Straight Figure – If you are gown. one of those ladies who have Hourglass figure – This is the an average sized bosom, wide stereotypical African woman. shoulders and a bottom and She has it all. Lots up top, waist that are undefined then plenty bottom and a small you have a straight figure. What waist. If you have a bust that you need to find is a wedding tends to make a statement dress that will accentuate the all by itself, you can look for a curves you do have. The gown wedding dress with a scooped that will work for you is a ball neckline. This will open your gown wedding dress with a neck and face. You want to flowing skirt that reaches to the make sure that your cleavage is floor. Find one that cinches at not overly exposed though. A your waist line and if your bust dress that goes straight across is not adequately large look your chest will only make your for a dress with ruching to add bust look bigger so avoid those more volume. This dress will if you can. add volume to your bottom Athletic build – We tend to call and bust while elongating your this a V figure sometimes. Your middle. shoulders are wide, your bust is so-so, the waist is straight The African woman is said to have it all. However, that‘s just a myth. We all have different body types and with each one there are dressing challenges.

Your big day is a day when you want to feel beautiful, not to mention that all eyes will be on you. Nothing will make you feel more beautiful than finding the perfect wedding dress for your body type.

My Harusi Sep-Dec 2013

and the hips narrow. For this type of figure wear a wedding dress that has a fitted waist and strapless bodice. If you don’t want to go strapless consider a shoestring strap and remember to accessorize your neck if you go this route.

Apple Shape – Then we have those who have a full bust, a waist that is thicker and narrow hips. This body type should be dressed in a V neck wedding dress or one that has a sweetheart neckline. These necklines tend to make the neck look both longer and slender.

They bring out your bust and in so doing draw attention away from your middle. Find a dress that will give a corset like effect by simply adding details to the bodice. The dress should fit at the waist and drop away in an A line design.

The Groom

From Yes, Ido, to ever after

Duties of the Best Man at the Wedding Being chosen as the best man at a wedding is a great honor and every man secretly wishes to be chosen. When the groom selects you, it is an indication that you are very close to him.

If chosen, you are supposed to perform these duties and responsibilities.

• The best man can be requested to keep the ring until the pastor asks for it.

• You are supposed to exit with the maid of honor at the end of the ceremony. Do not let the groom leave alone.

• The first thing you should do is to assist the groom in making all arrangements. Be part of the organizers and help them with ideas where need be.

• It is the best man’s responsibility to know how the groom’s payment envelops will be distributed to the wedding planner, organizer and even the pastor.

• You are supposed to attend the wedding rehearsal. It is usually done one or two days to the wedding.

• You are supposed to give a speech at the reception. Dance with the maid of honor if asked to.

• If there is no hired limo, you are supposed to drive the groom from home to the church, from the church to the reception, and then drive him home and to the airport after the ceremony. Ask for instruction on where you are supposed to drive the him.

• You are supposed to show up early on the wedding day and assist the husband-tobe with whatever he might need. You should be there early for pre-wedding photographs with the husband-to-be.

• The best man is supposed to be friendly and helpful to the guests throughout the wedding. You can show them where to seat before the ceremony.

• You should walk in with the groom when the ceremony begins My Harusi Sep-Dec 2013

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From Yes, Ido, to ever after

The wedding cake is one of the most important centerpieces in the wedding. You should ensure that you stand out when it comes to the cake.

People may forget the flowers or the food or the music played at your wedding, but they will not forget the wedding cake served. There are ordinary cakes and there are extraordinary cakes and you should consider getting tips from your caterer and your wedding planner to ensure you get the best cake. Below is a list of out of the ordinary cakes. Note that although you expect to pay for quality, expensive does not always mean better.

My Cake

Out of the Ordinary Wedding Cakes • One of the most loved cakes in weddings is the princess wedding cake. This cake might seem childish to many, but it is undoubtedly the most colorful cake out there and it serves to fulfill the childhood dreams of most girls.

• If you are a fan of Western movies, you could have a Western-themed wedding. You • If you are having a spring wedding, could have 2 wedding cakes made in the shape consider a polka dot ribbon or Shasta daisies. of a cowboy’s hat, one white and one black, These decorations are ideal for 3-tier wedding and you could have this accented with large, cakes. booming roses.

• Another out of the ordinary wedding • You could go for something unusual such cake idea is a ribbon layer cake. To make the as a chocolate gateaux and a deep cheesecake. cake, you need to use the main color of theme These wedding cakes are cheaper and easy to of the wedding for the ribbon and you need a prepare. contrast ribbon.

• You could add edible pearls on parts of your wedding cakes. You could also use small roses or flower petals for this.

My Harusi Sep-Dec 2013

From Yes, Ido, to ever after

My Style

Keeping it Simple

You do not need to break your bank to have a beautiful wedding. If you are planning a wedding on a budget, you should keep everything simple, including the wedding style. Keeping the wedding style and other aspects of the wedding simple has several advantages. These advantages are outlined below.

• Having a simple wedding style and simplifying other aspects of the wedding is advantageous in that you get to save money.

With a simple wedding, you do not need some professionals such as florists and wedding planners since you can do some of the work yourself. This is important because starting a marriage in debt is folly. You could use the money saved for your dream honeymoon, or to start mortgage payments.

• You should go for a simple wedding style and you should simplify other aspects of your wedding such as the floral arrangements because you will save considerable time and effort, meaning you will enjoy your wedding more. Complex weddings come with a lot of work and this means that the couple gets more stressed and tired.

• As the old adage goes, simplicity signifies the magnanimity of the soul. Having a simple wedding style therefore depicts an element of humility.

• A simple wedding style and simplifying other aspects of the wedding will take the pressure off people who often go to weddings to impress their friends, relatives, or colleagues.

If you have a simple wedding, the guests will be more comfortable and they will therefore have a better time.

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From Yes, Ido, to ever after

The traditional way of sending out wedding invitations was the writing of invitation cards and sending them via mail or via hand delivery. Later, people started using email to send these invitations. However, there is a shift towards the use of social networks to send their invitations. You should however be weary of the fact that not everybody who uses social networking sites accesses such sites and you should therefore do research so that you can send such people invitations through other ways. So, why should you use the likes of Twitter, Facebook, MySpace, and the new Google+ to send wedding invitations? The major advantages of doing so are outlined here.

My Invites

Using Social Networks to Send Wedding Invitations • Using social networking sites for your wedding invitations is advantageous in that you get to reduce your carbon footprint since this is paperless.

• You should use social network for your • You should use social networks such wedding invitations because it is easier and less as Facebook to pass your wedding invitations time consuming compared to sending wedding because you get to save money. This is because cards. you do not need to spend on such things as printing cards and buying stamps to post them and you do not need to spend on logistics such as transport costs.

• You should use social networks for your wedding invitations because you get to reach most of your friends. Getting home addresses of your relatives, friends, and colleagues is not always possible, but this is not a problem with social networking sites.

My Harusi Sep-Dec 2013

My Accessories

From Yes, Ido, to ever after

Choosing a Platinum Wedding Necklace Expensive jewellery must be carefully chosen and taken care of so that it can last for a long time. This is more so for wedding jewellery.

A popular choice of precious metal jewellery for the big day is platinum. Most brides tend towards this piece of jewellery because of the way it sets off the wedding gown without being either too flashy or too drab. A platinum wedding necklace is also popular because of the different designs that are available. The wedding necklace can also come as a set with matching earrings and bracelets for a complete and elegant look that every bride longs for.

However as with all precious metals used for jewellery, platinum has to be alloyed with other metals so that it can achieve the required tensile strength necessary for jewellery.

Platinum is known as the ‘king of metals’ due to its rarity which also makes it expensive but for it to live up to this name it has to be alloyed with other metals. The best alloys are usually cobalt and ruthenium though the amount of platinum used should be high like 95% for the platinum necklace to be considered pure platinum. Some jewellers use iridium as an alloy for platinum but this type of wedding necklace will be softer and prone to scratches and dulling after a year. It is therefore to check with the jeweller to ensure that the necklace bought is of good quality and will last a lifetime.

The silvery colour of a platinum necklace works for any complexion and any gown which is another reason why brides want to wear it as they get married. Quality platinum jewellery has intricate handcrafted designs that add to its allure. A bride should look for a necklace with such designs that will set her apart on the big day and throughout her marriage. This piece of jewellery may be expensive partly because few platinum smiths exist. It requires high temperatures to melt, over 3000 degrees

and the tools used to craft it are also special, rare and therefore expensive.

A pure platinum necklace also apart from sitting pretty on a bride’s neckline has minimal reported cases of allergic reactions. This makes it ideal as a coating for other metals that may cause irritation on a bride’s skin that at times cause permanent damage. The secret to having practical jewellery for the big day is to choose pieces that can be worn at other times after the couple is married. Therefore the necklace chosen should be one that fits the bride’s lifestyle and taste.

A bride may want to consider a piece that she can pass on to generations as an heirloom.

If this is the case the necklace could have personalised engraving on it so that she can start a new marriage custom in the family. This may have to be custom made to the couple’s specifications and a good jeweller has to be commissioned who will also be available do repairs and maintenance whenever necessary.

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From Yes, Ido, to ever after If you are considering a traditional wedding, you need to incorporate a traditional touch in the ceremony and the wedding décor. More and more people are going for traditional weddings as a break from the overly-common modern weddings. Below are tips on how to ensure that you incorporate a traditional touch in the wedding ceremony and the wedding décor • Floating candles, floral decorations, and colorful balloons have been used in weddings for hundreds of years and you should consider them if you want to add a traditional touch to your wedding décor.

My Decor Hiring a pro for the wedding décor is advantageous in that these pros have the experience, training, and tools necessary to ensure that you get that traditional touch.

• If you want to have a traditional touch in your wedding ceremony or décor, attend as many weddings as possible to get tips. You could also get tips from wedding magazines and from online resources such as discussion forums.

• For a traditional touch, be conservative when it comes to colors and music. Live bands are best suited to traditional weddings.

• For a traditional touch to your wedding decor, consider holding the wedding in a church as opposed to a garden wedding.

Weddings used to be held exclusively in churches.

• You could add a traditional touch to your wedding by directing all the wedding guests to dress conservatively for the wedding.

The wedding dress and the groom’s tuxedo should also be traditional if you want that traditional touch.

• Consult a wedding planner and/or a professional decorator for tips on how to decorate so that you get a traditional touch.

My Harusi Sep-Dec 2013

Traditional Wedding Décor

My Venu

From Yes, Ido, to ever after

What to Consider So you are getting married.

Have you found the ideal venue for your big day? Whether you are going for a garden wedding, church wedding or even beach wedding there are certain questions you must ask regarding the wedding venue if it is to be ideal. Certain wedding venue considerations include the following:

of restrooms to the wedding venue. You don’t want any unpleasant smells wafting in as you are saying your vows.

In the event that some of your Facilities Available guests may be disabled, you Guest Seating want to consider if the wedding When looking at facilities you venue you select is wheelchair must consider the number accessible. of restrooms available. You When looking at wedding don’t want to have long venue options guest seating is qeues outside the restrooms very important. How many can because you had too few the venue hold? Do they need bathrooms. Additionally, you a downpayment to secure the venue and is the downpayment refundable? Additionally, if it’s a garden wedding, does the venue come with tents and chairs as well as tables? Is the cost for these included in the wedding venue fee or is it an additional fee?

Catering Good food is a must for any wedding.

Find out if the people who are providing the wedding venue also do wedding catering. This makes things much easier as you do not have to juggle vendors. If they do not do the wedding want to consider the proximity catering themselves do they have preferred vendors that

they work with or can you bring your own? Another great question to ask is if they have kitchen facilities and if so, can your wedding caterer use the kitchen facilities.

Wedding Décor Entertainment

and

Consider the wedding décor you will want for your big day.

Will they be decorating your wedding venue for you or will you have to work with an outside provider? Additionally, find out if the area where they are located allows for amplified music. Do they have a dance floor, or will you have to make do with whatever is available?

Do they provide a sound system or will you have to bring one along with your own wedding DJ? Other Costs Find out if they charge for cleaning up the wedding venue after you have left or if they will require you to find your own cleaners. Additionally, find out if there are any restrictions that you may not be aware of as well as service charges.

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From Yes, Ido, to ever after Every girl dreams that her wedding will be unique. If this has always been your dream, you should start by getting unique wedding transportation.

Getting unique wedding transportation means shunning traditional wedding transport options such as riding into the wedding in a car. There are several unique wedding transport options that you should consider. Your wedding planner could help you in your choice, which is also important in that the wedding transportation will be incorporated into the décor and the general theme of the wedding. Below is a list of unique wedding transportation options.

• You could arrive at the wedding in a hot air balloon. This wedding transport method works best for an outdoor wedding. Hot air balloons have a large capacity and one could even carry the whole bridal party.

• Another unique wedding transport idea that you should explore is arriving at the wedding at the back of a motorbike. This entrance will certainly create a stir.

• If you want romantic wedding transport means, consider a Gondola. This makes for

My Harusi Sep-Dec 2013

My Transport

Unique Wedding Transportation spectacular photos and it will leave all the guests in awe.

• You could use a jet ski as your wedding transport means if you are having a beach wedding. The bridal party however needs to be dressed in short beach attire for this.

• You want to be completely unique, shun the traditional horse and make an elephant your wedding transport means.

• If you love cars, do not go for limos as our wedding transport means, go for that Lamborghini or Ferrari that you have always dreamed about.

My entertainment

From Yes, Ido, to ever after Entertainment could make or break the wedding and the wedding reception; one should therefore choose it carefully.

The most important part of wedding entertainment is the music played. When deciding on wedding entertainment, you have the option of hiring a DJ to play music or to hire a live band. Each of these options has pros and cons, but playing original music in the wedding has more advantages. However, having original wedding music played by a band has more advantages compared to hiring a DJ. These advantages are outlined below.

the party. This is because unlike recorded music, musicians can inject comedy into the wedding. These musicians become the point of focus, meaning the guests will not get bored.

• When you hire a live band for your wedding entertainment, you will be sure that the quality of the music will not sound canned. This is because musicians know how to balance the quality of the sound. With a band, you need not worry about silent moments and tempo modification.

specifically for you, complete with the names of the bride and the groom.

• When you go with a live band for wedding entertainment, you get to audition the band before the wedding day and to give the necessary instructions, meaning that you will know exactly what you are getting during the wedding day.

• You should go for original wedding music because the • Having a live band for music will be unique. The live your wedding entertainment band that is doing the wedding ensures you get more life into entertainment will sing a song

Having

Original Wedding Entertainment

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From Yes, Ido, to ever after

The Bridal Shower Being part of the bridal shower planning team is important as it will give you a chance to show the bride how much she means to you.

As a bridesmaid, you should help in planning, setting up of the event, pay for the shower and attend the event. You should ask her what kind of wedding tradition she would like. Below are some helpful bridal shower tips.

• The bride should start by choosing honor attendants. It is important to choose more honor attendants to plan this wedding tradition. If she chooses one planner, she should always consult the family members and friends for help in the planning.

• Choosing the date of this wedding tradition is important. You should make sure that the date you choose is not on a holiday that would prevent the guests from coming to the event. You should notify the guests in advance to give them time to prepare for the event.

• Plan the bridal shower budget early and ensure that the money for all the expenses is set aside. Do not hesitate to ask for help. If you My Harusi Sep-Dec 2013

My traditions and customs

cannot afford, you can ask the other bridesmaids or brides friends to chip in.

• Who to invite is also another factor. The guests you will invite to this wedding tradition should also be the guests you will invite to the wedding. If you are not sure of who to invite to the shower, you can consult the bride (if it is not a surprise shower).

• It is important and smart to indicate where the guests can buy gifts in the wedding bridal shower. The shower invitations can be e-cards or even traditional cards

From Yes, Ido, to ever after

My Gifts and Favors

Like everything else in life, you can give a good wedding gift or a bad wedding gift. It is important that you know what makes bad wedding gifts so that you can avoid giving them. You should note that just because a gift is expensive does not mean it is good, but this is no excuse to get a cheap wedding gift. The best wedding gift is one that is unique and that shows that a lot of care and love went into making or buying the gift. So, which wedding gifts should you avoid?

• Even if you are very close with the couple, you should avoid adult-related wedding gifts. This will be seen as an insult – let them buy their own.

• You should avoid obvious re-gifts. Even if you have not used the gift yourself, giving a gift that was given to you by someone else is a no-no since it shows that you do not honor the newly weds enough. There is an exception to this rule when the wedding gifts are vintage items and family heirlooms.

• You should never give items that the couple is unlikely to use. Such wedding gifts will find their way back to the outlet you bought them for, to the attic, or to the basement.

• Some people give discounts on marriage counseling. This is a no-no when it comes to wedding gifts since it shows that you are anticipating the failure of the marriage.

• Giving nothing at all is also a no-no, even if you consider the newlyweds to be rich or you just do not have the money. You could make your own wedding gifts if you do not have enough money.

What Not to Get Them as Wedding Gifts

• Wedding etiquette dictates that you give wedding gifts that at least cover the dinner. You should therefore avoid cheap gifts.

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From Yes, Ido, to ever after

Why Have a Honeymoon?

A honeymoon is basically a getaway for the bride and the groom after a wedding. In most cases, the groom organizes everything and the trip is a surprise. Honeymoons are usually far away from the venue of the wedding. Honeymoons started as Western wedding traditions, but the tradition has spread all over the world. So, why do you need to go on a honeymoon after your wedding? Although honeymoons can be expensive, they require a lot of planning, and they take you away from your ‘real’ life, some of the many reasons for honeymoons are given below.

A honeymoon allows you to relax. The process of planning a wedding is very energy consuming, tiring, and stressful and you definitely need the break.

Going on a honeymoon is advantageous in that it allows you to consummate your marriage and have time alone as a couple. This is important and a marriage is not even considered to be My Harusi Sep-Dec 2013

My Honeymoon

valid if it is not consummated.

Yet another advantage of going on a honeymoon is the fact that you get the chance to go to places that you would never have gone to. You get to visit exotic locations and to enjoy the foods, the sun and sand, the new experience, and everything else on offer.

You should go on a honeymoon because you will have enough time to plan your future. This is important because normal lives are usually very hectic and people do not get the time to make such decisions.

A honeymoon is important because it is an old tradition and your wife will never forgive you if she is not taken on one. It can be just a night or two somewhere affordable to you.

From Yes, Ido, to ever after

A wedding album is very important and many couples have even found it therapeutic in that it takes them back to the wedding day and reminds them how in love they were whenever they are having problems. This plus the fact that there are many pictures to choose from (with the increased use of digital cameras) and the fact that some pictures are better than others makes selecting the right wedding pictures for your wedding album difficult. The tips outlined below will guide you when selecting wedding pictures for your wedding album.

• You should ensure that the cover image is appropriate and meaningful. For the cover image, choose between wedding pictures with just the bride and the groom.

• Choose between the wedding pictures for a photo that is appropriate for the first page.

• Next, select wedding pictures to put in the album based on the sequence of events, starting from when the bride was picked and concluding with the bride and the groom leaving for their honeymoon.

My Photos

How to Select Wedding Pictures for my Album • Inside the wedding album, include wedding pictures that show action and reaction during the wedding proceedings. These will make for great stories.

• You should not use wedding pictures that do not fit with other pictures in the album.

• You should trust the opinion of your photographer when choosing wedding pictures for your album since he/she has experience.

You should particularly pay attention when the black & white versus color debate arise.

• You should choose between the wedding pictures for an appropriate photo for the last page.

My Harusi Sep-Dec 2013

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From Yes, Ido, to ever after

Wedding Bells

I was totally shocked and How did you meet?

Bride: We met in April 2009 at his mom’s church loved every minute!

How did friends and family react?

- Strong Tower Church in Kawangware. A mutual friends introduced us.

Bride: My friends and family were thrilled!

How long were you dating for?

Who long were you engaged?

Bride:

Started Talking in May 2009 Dating in June 2009 Were engaged August 18th 2010 Married August 13th 2011 What challenges did you face in the relationships?

Bride: Almost 1 year. We would have been married much sooner if it were up to us, however we had to go through the K1 visa process.

Did you always have a dream wedding and what was it?

Bride: Although having a long-distance relationship caused us to develop extreme communication, it was also incredibly hard being away from each other.

Bride: I have never been one of those girls who dreams of her wedding day ever since I she is a little girl. I think I just dreamed of the way I would feel. I always imagined my heart completely at peace, my face radiating with joy and feeling the most beautiful I have ever felt.

We also had to face some resistance from a few friends. Kerah more than me.

What did you decide on for your dream wedding?

Did you know that this was the one and how?

Bride: I knew that Kerah could be the one...

I spent some time really observing him and seeing how he interacted with others and his relationship with God. We also spent a few months together and separate seeking God to know if this was His plan.

How did he propose?

Bride: I was totally SHOCKED!!! It was the day I was leaving to fly back to the States. I was running around doing last minute errands and Kerah was supposedly in the studio. I got a phone call from Kijiji NGEST Guest House in Karen. This is where Kerah and I had talked about having our reception. They wanted to go over a few more things with me... I ran out there, they ended up taking me on a tour of possible set ups for the wedding reception.

When we got to a certain area on the property I saw a bouquet of my favorite flowers on the ground (I was still clueless), I went up to the flowers and saw that there was a ring box under the flowers... As I looked up Kerah came around the corner and got down on his knee.

My Harusi Sep-Dec 2013

Bride: Kerah and I both really wanted a beach wedding and a reception that made everyone feel at home. We decided to have our reception at a close family friends home in Winter Park, Florida. I would not have changed a thing...

To me our wedding was perfect, I just wish it would have lasted longer!

What traditions or customs did you take into play?

Bride: We incorporated some Kenyan Leso material in our decorating. We also had Gospel Fathers Kerah and Samu preform along with having our Kenyan Dj, DJ Jey Arosto Sonko.

We of course had all the traditional American wedding music. Everyone love it!

Can you tell us about picking out your dress?

Bride: I actually designed my dress and had my mom make it. I wanted it to be totally unique, showcase my personality and have some Kenyan flare to it. It turned out even better than what I imagined!

How long did you have to prepare for the wedding and what challenges did you face?

Wedding bells

From Yes, Ido, to ever after Bride: It was a great morning, super relaxed. My sister and I went to get our hair and makeup done around 12:00 and then went to the house to get my dress on and hopped in the car and drove about 45 min to the beach! The only challenge was rushing to re-do my makeup!!!

What was the most challenging thing about the wedding day?

Bride: My makeup... We had our wedding photos taken 2 days before the wedding and had an incredible makeup artist, Lindsey Kirkland founder of Lulu Makeup, in Orlando FL do my makeup... The day of the wedding I had another makeup artist do my makeup... and well lets just say I ran out of there, washed my face, and did my own makeup.

What was your best thing about the wedding day?

Bride: The best thing is that I enjoyed every minute of it... Most brides cannot say that...

Keep it simple, you will enjoy it much more... the less fuss the better!!!

Stay within your budget... You can have an incredible wedding for a lot less than what you think!

Take your wedding photos before your wedding day... It saves a ton of time the day of the wedding and makes you less stressed!

What qualities did you look for in your spouse?

Groom: God-fearing Relates well to others compassionate loving hard-working loves kids

What of the wedding service providers did they meet your expectations? Any particular one and why?

Humble

Bride: My expectations were met above and beyond! We had catering company called Cusiners (in the States), do our food and Chef Stacy make our cake... It was delicious!

Did you know right away that this relationship would last this far?

Why?

If you could would you change anything about that day?

Bride: I would make it longer...the time flew by.

Where was the wedding and when?

Bride: The wedding was on New Smyrna Beach, Florida on August 13th 2011 Where did you honeymoon?

Bride: We had a week at a resort in Orlando, Florida and then another 4 days at a cabin in Northern Michigan.

Any last words of advice for couples planning their wedding?

Bride: Don't plan it for anyone else but you and your future spouse. Do what you want and don’t care about pleasing anyone else...

Passionate about his purpose in life and towards me Supportive

Groom: I knew that I wanted it to, but I knew it was going to have to be God’s plan in order for it to work... This was the one relationship that I actually let go and trusted God with Do you think having children have an affect on the marriage? Why? Groom:Yes, I believe it will enhance our love for each other and our love for our Creator. Any addition or subtraction to our lives will always bring about change, but through having a solid foundation in Christ and in communication with each other, we will be made stronger!

What is your favorite part of marriage? What makes it your favorite part?

Groom: I love having a constant teammate by my side to walk through life with, the ups, the My Harusi Sep-Dec 2013

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From Yes, Ido, to ever after

Wedding Bells

downs and everything in the middle. There is nothing like growing with your best friend.

How do kids strengthen and weaken the relationship?

What is your idea of a typical marriage?

Groom:Children are one of God’s greatest blessings upon a marriage, they bring a deep joy and love between a husband and wife, however with any new change there are adjustments that must be made as well.

Children place a new and different demand on a marriage, that could lead to heightened tension and stress if not handled right. I believe as long as you and your spouse continue to communicate and give each other some extra grace and patience with all the changes, having children will have fulfilled God’s purpose in your lives.

Groom: I have always seen marriage to be an adventure... One that shapes you more into the person you were created to be. I never want my marriage to be “typical”. I feel once you have reached that point you are no longer valuing the person God has blessed you with.

In your eyes, how do you think marriage today is different than marriages in the past?

Groom: In a large part of the world, I believe marriage has changed significantly. Part of that change is due to the majority of women heading back into the work force which has changed the family dynamic drastically.

However I believe the greatest difference in marriages today versus marriages in the past, is that many people no longer hold the value of commitment and covenant made before God and to each other. I believe we need to go back to the biblical principles that God established.

What is the most important aspect in a marriage to make it successful?

Faith and Communication There is allot of divorce these days even in the church what are some thing Christian couples need to be aware about that could lead to their downfall and even your own in marriage?

Groom: Don’t believe you are invincible to divorce, the enemy is always seeking away to attack.

Battle for your marriage through prayer together.

Get connected to a church or Christian small group that will stand with you and keep you accountable to your covenant vows.

Communicate, Communicate, and Communicate MORE. My Harusi Sep-Dec 2013

If planned , what makes the time right to have children?

Groom:I am not really sure if there is a “perfect time” to plan on having children. I know most people would say once you are “financially” stable... However I believe you will know in your hearts. There is a s How do you handle disagreement and problems?

Bride: Because Kerah and I have a mutual love and respect for each other, we handle any issue through communicating our thought and feelings right away. . What was your biggest fear getting married and what is your biggest fear now?

Bride:I honestly had no fear marring Kerah, my heart was completely confident and at peace walking down that isle on our wedding day.

Groom:I don’t know that I really have any fear now after being married... I would say my deepest prayer is that everyday we are given, we use it to draw ourselves closer to being the people God intended us to be and to developing the marriage God intended us to have.

From My Harusi to you, thank you and God bless you.

From Yes, Ido, to ever after

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From Yes, Ido, to ever after

Dear bride in waiting, You have the glow. You have the sparkle in your eyes when you talk about him. For a moment, your world becomes enchanting, exhilarating and exciting and I am glad you feel that way. Watching him open doors for you, show you off like a trophy, pull chairs for you and hold you like a delicate flower is truly magical. Enjoy every minute of it, girl. Love, like every other gift is to be cherished in the moment. I also notice the bling on your hand. Congratulations!!You are on your way to becoming a help mate; a most honourable position bequeathed to our kind.

I know by now, advice has been landing at your door step in truck loads. The advice will never stop coming. It will come when you are married, when you have your first baby and the second one. One person will tell you your hair looks good when it is braided only for the next one to recommend the latest weave. Sift through it with a fine tooth comb and when you are done, sift through it again. Counsel is good, but counsel applied without wisdom could be your downfall.

I know you have nursed yourself to sleep dreaming of your wedding; the My Harusi Sep-Dec 2013

first dance, the lingering kiss, the twist and the swirls as you dance as a couple, the spongy cake melting in your mouth.

You have it worked out to the last detail; every cent and note budgeted for, every table and seat perfectly set out, every knife, fork and spoon well laid out on the crystal white table cloth against a back drop of smooth sultry sounds of jazz. Indeed, you are proof of what he always hoped for; organized, neat, a clock head with a knack for detail. I hope the day turns out to be nothing short of your expectations.

Like with every journey, your wedding will mark the first step of many more to come. Take it with pride, joy and enthusiasm. Dance, laugh and fret not; it is the magic of such moments that makes life worthwhile. The princess in you is probably hoping the prince in him will always be right around the corner in his shining armor. Unfortunately, he won’t. Even the prince is human. He will take off his armor at the end of a long day; famished and exhausted from the raging battles of the day. He will be as grumpy as Scrooge at times and collapse into a heap without saying a word. He will snore and when he sweats; it won’t remind you of the delicate fragrances of Christian Dior and his ilk. He will fart and you will wish you had bought three bottles of air freshener instead of one. He is human after all and that is all he will ever be; a frail human being.

Remember that 90’s movie by Tom

From Yes, Ido, to ever after

will do things that will make your mouth loose all the brakes it has. He will annoy you; he will test your patience. He will leave smoke coming out of your ears and nose at times. He will make you question your sanity at the time of your wedding. Whatever he does, pause.

Pause before you say anything to him during such moments. Take a deep breath; relax, think and then speak. It will take a while to understand that. In fact, you will stumble before you get it but you will be more than glad that you did. He will bring out the best and the worst in you. That is the whole essence of marriage. It was never intended to make you happy. Like sand paper, it will smooth your rough edges. The best will sometimes follow the worst. Hope for the best in all seasons because hope never disappoints.

Cruise and Renee Zellweger? It is the one in which he has a moment, looks at her lovingly and says: You complete me.

That was sweet, right? I hate to break `it to you but Tom Cruise is an actor; one who is paid millions to deliver such lines with the oomph that makes all of us go aaahhh and ooohh. So are the soap opera hanks like Alejandro, Diego and his ilk. Your prince won’t complete you. He can never do that in spite the best of his intentions and you can’t do that for him either. Expecting him to do that will leave you with a bitter taste in your mouth. He cannot be a substitute for God, a fulfilling career, healthy friendships, the revitalizing effects of a manicure or the rejuvenation after a good night’s sleep. You can only complement each other. Do your bit gal. Do it to the best of your abilities and Finally, laugh, dance and smile. It is then let him decide to do the same. never that serious. If it was, no one Get a life and maintain that life. Like would be married. Pick your battles. fire from coal, the fire in your marriage Some are to be fought; some are best is the result of standing close to each won by being left alone. Enjoy the ride, other but not too close. Leave him girl. alone. That may be he will want from Yours sincerely, you most of the time. Learn something The other bride in waiting new, cook, advance in your career, and travel with him and alone. Go out with By Corazon Achieng your own friends and with him from http://lettersfromascribe.wordpress. time to time. Watch him; learn from com/2013/09/02/road-rogues/ him and with him. Choose to see the good in him and it only becomes better.

Choose to see the worst in him and I guarantee you, ugliness will attain a new meaning right before your eyes.

Choose your words carefully. I know he

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Life Style lovers but you can’t be friends, she is not the one. However, if you are friends before love comes you stand a greater chance of happiness in marriage.

Low Maintenance – A low maintenance woman is not worried about keeping up with the Kardashians, sorry, I meant joneses. Instead she is more focused on the more important things in life. She is supportive, rational and not clingy – a thing most men detest. She is the kind of woman who loves you for who you are not for how fat your wallet is. She is concerned with becoming a better woman and not looking like a good woman.

Finding a Woman to Marry Every man is looking for a woman that he can hold, cherish, love and make a wife. We have all heard the horror stories and we know that not every woman you see looking good is a good woman however when you are selecting a woman to make marry you should not just get caught up in her figure but look also at her personality, intellect, emotional status and spirituality. So what kind of woman should every man be looking for? Here goes!

God fearing – why is this important? Because if she is submitted to God, loves him and wants to live for him she will follow the laws of God and will be happy to submit to a man that is also submitted to God. The Bible says that the man is not to Lord it over his wife but to love and cherish her, and she in turn is to respect and honor him. A woman who truly fears God is a special woman.

A friend – One of the top 5 needs of every man is to enjoy recreation time with his woman.

The woman you are looking to marry should therefore be your best friend. If you can be My Harusi Sep-Dec 2013

Selfless – The woman you marry should be selfless, more concerned about sharing a life with you, working together to get ahead, committed to the marriage and devoted to you. It does not mean that she does not care about herself, but she will endeavor to put your needs ahead of her own.

Loyal and Patient – This is a very important trait in the woman you are to marry. She will be with you in good times and bad. This is a woman who will love you when you have no money and when you have it in buckets. She is an encourager, uplifting, supportive and her affection will only be for you. She does not have a roaming eye.

Emotionally stable – Her emotions are never used to make decisions or to manipulate her husband. The woman you marry should not be moody, happy one second and depressed the next.

A woman of character – Her character must not be unquestionable. She must be a woman of integrity who is the same whether people are watching her or not. She should also be a woman of high morals.

Your woman is not perfect because there are no perfect people in the world. So don’t look for perfection. You might be single a long time.

From Yes, Ido, to ever after

Life Style

Ready? Set? …Do you?

When I heard about Kim Kardashian and Chris Humphrey’s today marriage all I thought was ………that is a popularity stunt if even had of one. Yes I judged and concluded as many did. I thought that is great for rating and hits and all that but I never thought. For once that it could have been real and feelings could have been hard.

After watching the reality show and seeing them trying and feeling I began to thank and even pray for them. I figured this could be any one of us. It is not the first or the last and its not the shortest one either.

Every day we see couples yet moved and after years of what works like a happily even after the break up and are shocked .If happened with seed and his lovely wife hardly down who renewed their marriage vows every year. I had to ask myself why that ID. When listening to Kim Kardashian I learnt that she admitted to getting mounded too fast. She found a guy and they hit it off an got along but when the reality of marriage and living together kicked it they were not ready our what was happening they did not seem to know what goes where and now and it was like they were stranger

Before we say I do. If is crucial to give the process the time it deserves and respect look at what you are getting into with both eyes open and then ask if you can handle it and make a plan on how. If not its call good its easier to break up than get divorced .Date for a while ,I like to say give it a like on new years through eastern and Christmas . What they are like at home with family, work, oasis that time of the month etc . Don’t marry a stranger.

Lastly, but not least as much as you love the person shut one door before you open another. Let them deal and heal from a past relationship , marriage ext if there are land involved do some cancelling even if not marriage counseling is a must to give you a head up into your future and the very head issues to come.

Marriage is for life so take time to get ready.

When I look at seeds relationship see many things from the beginning the fact that she was pregnated with another man child and had kids form a previous marriage could be one of the things. I am not saying that its what caused the divorce but it could have contributed . In both cases I see timing as a big factor that was not considered.

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health

From Yes, Ido, to ever after Positive relaxation Plan for relaxation time, we are all busy, but if we do not take time to rest stress will put us to rest. Don’t wait to rest in a hospital bed, take a few minutes each day to do that. Make the breaks at home and work count and make them positive relaxation times.

Time out After every 2 hours factor in a time out 5-10 minutes a day especially after a long meeting, a project that takes allot of concentration and energy and after an unpleasant event. Breathe deeply letting all your muscles reenergize and release tension. Take this time out alone make it “Me� time.

Exercise Many think that exercise is work and thus more stressful than stress free. Ducks after a fight or with take to vigorously flapping their wings thus letting out that extra negative energy built up by the body. Exercise can do the same and burnt hat extra energy along with circulating, blood, getting more oxygen in you and if done in an enjoyable way like Zumba it is a energy booster and spirit lifter.

Take a few minutes each day to get a workout be it dancing, jumping rope or getting to the gym a few days a week. If you have kids,

playing with them is a great work out so is walking the dog and walking with your loved one.

Smoking and alcohol When stressed out, some tend to drink and smoke more often to release stress. These are unhealthy coping methods that can lead to addiction and alcohol is actually a depressant.

Avoiding stress is better than coping with stress.

Hobbies Hobbies are things that we do for fun. Fun is something people do not seriously and make little time for in their busy and serious lives.

Taking time in the week or weekend after a long week at work or even a holiday with a spouse or family and doing fun things is crucial.

On a more solo note, take time out weekly or even daily to do something you enjoy be it knitting, video games, movies, board games etc.

Treatment There are times when a stitch was not made in time to avoid stress and now treatment is the key. It is not a bad thing to get help from a therapist or a doctor, it does not mean you are crazy or nuts, it just means you are facing high stress levels that you are unable to deal with in the ways mentioned above. In some cases medical treatment may be administered for a short while.

How to develop a Low stress tolerance My Harusi Sep-Dec 2013

From Yes, Ido, to ever after

Kitchen Talk

Old Fashioned Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Try something old fashioned yet tasty this Easter season. Try the old fashioned pineapple upside-down cake. This is a nutritious recipe that will take about one hour to prepare. The recipe will yield a 10-inch round cake that can serve 10.

Ingredients: •

½ cup of butter

•

4 eggs

•

1 cup of packed light brown sugar

•

1 (20 ounce) can of sliced pineapple

•

10 maraschino cherries, halved

•

1 teaspoon of baking powder

•

1 cup of sifted cake flour

•

¼ teaspoon of salt

•

1 tablespoon butter, melted

•

1 cup of white sugar

•

1 teaspoon of almond extract

Sift together flour, baking powder, and salt.

In a large bowl, beat egg whites just until soft peaks form. Add granulated sugar gradually, beating well after each addition. Beat until stiff peaks form.

In a small bowl, beat egg yolks at high speed until very thick and yellow. With a wire whisk or rubber scraper, using an over-and-under motion, gently fold egg yolks and flour mixture into whites until blended. Fold in 1 tablespoon melted butter or margarine and almond extract. Spread batter evenly over pineapple in skillet.

Method: Preheat oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C).

In a 10 inch heavy skillet, melt ½ cup butter or margarine over very low heat. Remove from heat, and sprinkle brown sugar evenly over pan. Arrange pineapple slices to cover bottom of skillet. Distribute cherries around pineapple; set aside.

Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until surface springs back when gently pressed with fingertip.

Loosen the edges of the cake with table knife.

Cool the cake for 5 minutes before inverting onto serving plate.

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Kitchen Talk

Artichoke Spinach Lasagna This lasagna that is made with an artichoke and spinach mixture will impress your family members or guests tremendously. The lasagna makes for a balanced meal. This recipe makes 8 servings.

Ingredients:

garlic for 3 minutes, or until onion is tendercrisp. Stir in broth and rosemary; bring to a boil.

Stir in artichoke hearts and spinach; reduce heat, cover and simmer 5 minutes. Stir in pasta sauce.

Spread 1/4 of the artichoke mixture in the bottom of the prepared baking dish; top with 3 cooked noodles. Sprinkle 3/4 cup mozzarella • 9 uncooked lasagna noodles cheese over noodles. Repeat layers 2 more • 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh rosemary times, ending with artichoke mixture and • 1 (14 ounce) can of marinated artichoke mozzarella cheese. Sprinkle crumbled feta on hearts, drained and chopped top.

• 1 (10 ounce) package of frozen chopped Bake, covered, for 40 minutes. Uncover, and spinach, thawed, drained and squeezed dry bake 15 minutes more, or until hot and bubbly.

• 1 onion, chopped Let stand for 10 minutes before cutting.

•

Cooking spray

•

4 cloves garlic, chopped

•

1 (14.5 ounce) can of vegetable broth

•

1 (28 ounce) jar of tomato pasta sauce

• 3 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese, divided • 1 (4 ounce) package of herb and garlic feta, crumbled Method: Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

Spray a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.

Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add noodles and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente; drain.

Spray a large skillet with cooking spray and heat on medium-high. Sauté the onion and My Harusi Sep-Dec 2013

Kitchen Talk

From Yes, Ido, to ever after The Watermelon Agua Fresca is a great refreshment that is very popular throughout Mexico. It is made with several different fruits.

Making the drink brings you out as being unique and you should consider making it this Easter season. This is a healthy drink given that watermelon, lime, and mint leaves have great health benefits. The sugar is a great energy booster. This recipe makes 8 servings.

Puree the watermelon and water in a blender until smooth.

Add ½ a cup of white sugar (or sugar to taste if this is too much for you).

Cut the lime slices in half.

Place a half lime slice into each of 8 glasses along with 3 mint leaves.

Crush the ice with a cocktail muddler and then fill each glass with the ice. Ensure there are sizable pieces of ice left to float on the drink.

Ingredients: •

4 cups of cubed seeded watermelon

Pour in the watermelon agua fresco.

•

½ cup of water

Stir before serving.

•

24 fresh mint leaves

• ½ cup of white sugar, or white sugar to taste •

4 slices of lime

•

Ice

Method: Wash the mint leaves, the watermelon, and the lime.

Watermelon Agua Fresca

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Fashion

Fashion Tips and Color Trends for the Kenyan Fashionista!

1– Color blocking Bold solid colors have been a major part of recent collections by Marc Jacobs and Tommy Hilfiger. They typically work best in three color combinations, and are ideal for layering with trenches and longer Pants. A good color block combination can be a great way for shorter wearers to create longer lines.

2 – Tangerines and Oranges One of the biggest color trends of the year, tangerines and oranges are set to continue to draw attention for one look tones and highlights. Tangerine Tango styles are particularly popular at the moment, and have become a fixture on the catwalk.

3 – Pastel Shades Pastel shades have been a strong feature of recent collections, and are recommended for lighter summer looks. Simple dresses and suit combinations have also been popular for enhancing more formal wear, while accessories in pastels and beiges have become a strong indicator of the longevity of the trend for a range of different uses.

4 – Neutrals and Luxe More formal wear trends have emphasized luxe and ladylike styles, so think about how you can create a striking but understated look for weddings and other special occasions this year. Creams and nudes have been particularly notable, as has ladylike handbags with hard tops.

My Harusi Sep-Dec 2013

Fashion

From Yes, Ido, to ever after 5- mint

Popular for younger wearers, but also as a go to solution for accessories and heels, mint shades have built from pastel colors to join with brightly colored impact tones. Mint works as a way to enhance everything from shirts to womens dresses and suits, and has been regularly seen on the catwalk and the red carpet since the turn of the year.

6 – Lace Part of more general luxe or Extravagant trends, lace has been a staple of designer collections since last year’s Royal Wedding, and has moved from evening wear and formalwear towards providing pretty touches for handbags and shoes, as well as mixing with mesh and sheer trends to create dynamic looks.

7 – Bolder Stripes Many designers are now going for bolder stripes and geometric patterns, in line with trends for more impact jewelry and colors.

This trend has grown more in Popularity throughout the year, with stripes typically recurring in different collections over the course of a normal season.

Tips provided by Jaffar Jackson – Fashion Stylist, Kenya

From Yes, Ido, to ever after Decorating your home with potted plants Potted plants are the quickest and easiest way to bring nature to where you are. Today, were are finding ourselves surrounded more and more by concrete jungles and as more apartments are built, less and less ground is available for the gardens we grew up .Potted plants have become very popular in restoring the greenery back to our surrounding. They are easy to plant and maintain, giving you a choice of having any plants or flowers in your home as you desire. surrounded by. Your indoors can come to life with the introduction of potted plants. Whether its your living room, kitchen or even bedroom, there are potted plants suitable for every space.

These small potted plants are always a winner place on window seals or as table pieces.

You can get colored plants and flowers that accessories your furniture and dĂŠcor. If you live in apartment, take advantage and use potted plants to add beauty to your balcony. Even if it is just a pot of two, it makes a lot of difference. it does not matter what size your balcony is, it deserves a touch of nature! Patios are beautiful places for relaxationThe presence of potted plants in your patio gives you the perfect recipe for relaxing. If you already have a garden, you can use different shapes and colours of pots to accessorise your garden. You can get pots for your plants in different shapes, sizes and colours, giving you so much flexibility on how to decorate your home with potted plants.

Using beddings to add color to your bedroom You spend an average of 6 – 8 hours of your daily life in your bedroom when you are asleep, why not make it more beautiful with pleasant and colorful beddings? Delve into some of these fantastic ideas for turning your beddings into handy dÊcor items.

If you are the kind of person who likes to make a bold statement about yourself, try and experiment with vibrant colors like pink, red and orange for your bedcovers or duvets. You can actually use the bed as a focal point and decorate the rest of the room around it. In case the color of your walls consists of light hues, use My Harusi Sep-Dec 2013

Home & Garden

From Yes, Ido, to ever after

Home & Garden darker colors for the beddings to provide an acceptable contrast. Plenty of colored throws arranged on the bed should also do the trick.

If you normally turn down your bedcovers or blankets to expose the sheets you can take advantage of this and use printed linen that match with the pillow cases. Alternatively, let the colors of your curtains and wall hangings guide your choice of colors for the beddings to maintain consistency.

A variety of bed linen provides the option of changing the bedroom’s look every once in a while or to suit different moods. Stock up on linen with different colors and patterns so that you have a range of options to choose from when beautifying your bedroom. Be sure to combine complimentary arrangements, for example, large floral patterns for bed-sheets can be combined with a plain bedcover turned back on one side.

You can also add a small blanket casually draped at the lower end of the bed. Fold the blanket lengthways if it is long enough or create a triangular shape if it is smaller. The latter gives it a more artistic appearance Space saving Kitchen gadgets If you live in a small space it is likely that one of the smallest spaces in your house is the kitchen. Rarely will you find a small house with a spacious kitchen. Countertop space is even smaller and cooking can become a very cramped experience especially if your counters are crammed with various gadgets. This should not cause discouragement though, as there are certain kitchen gadgets that can be space saving and functional at the same time.

Generally, you do not want your countertops cluttered with gadgets you hardly use. The best kitchen gadgets to invest in will therefore be those that are collapsible, stackable or can be mounted on a wall. Compact kitchen gadgets can also save space. When looking for space saving kitchen and electronic gadgets go for those that can perform multiple functions. If it can perform many functions it will mean fewer gadgets on your counters.

The idea is not to get carried away at the store.

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From Yes, Ido, to ever after Look for nifty kitchen tools while keeping your priorities in mind. Don’t buy anything on impulse. Instead, get creative and have fun hunting for more space saving, multi-functional gadgets.

Coastal culture dining furniture The coastal theme in décor is quite refreshing and can be achieved easily without having to be at the coast too. All you have to do is get a few signature items that are reminiscent of the coastal culture and there you have it. The beauty of such a theme is the intricate detail incorporated in the pieces of furniture. This is all part of the rich coastal culture. You can create this theme in practically any room in the home and the results are always stunningly refreshing.

The dining room is one of the areas where the coastal décor theme can be achieved beautifully.

This theme uses some of the most artistic wood varieties such as the mangrove and the bamboo.

These are creatively crafted into dining tables that make the dining experience all the more exciting. Mangrove is also a very hardy wood variety that is quite long lasting. Bamboo is easily fashioned into tasteful furniture and your dining room can greatly benefit from these timeless designs.

Wicker furniture is also extensively used in the coastal area and can be incorporated in dining furniture too. Wicker chairs have a relaxing feel to them and colorful cushions can be added to make them more comfortable. The added color is beneficial to the color scheme as well as acting as accents especially if the wicker chairs are done in a neutral color such as white or beige.

The coastal dining experience can also be incorporated in a contemporary modern décor theme with ease. Consider a double layered glass dining table with dramatic seashells sandwiched between the two layers for a unique and stunning theme. You can also add beads and shells to plain dining chairs for the same effect. Strings of shells can also adorn your dining room chandelier for spectacular lighting.

For more check http://www.pambaboma.com My Harusi Sep-Dec 2013

From Yes, Ido, to ever after

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From Yes, Ido, to ever after