WEDDING ESSENTIALS AND ESSENTIAL GROOM ISSUE DIGITAL MAGAZINE

Wedding
Essentials

HOW TO BRIDAL
DEAL...
GOWNS BROUGHT TO
Stress Leading up to the Big Day YOU BY LO VOGLIO
Keeping Your Guest Happy BRIDAL BOUTIQUE
Wedding Planning Tips
Wedding
Choosing your
Bridesmaid She’s Inspiration
more than Your
Best friend: Featuring

Candles 4 U Shepstone Gardens|
Grasslands Conference
Bringing Light to your Wedding
& Wedding Venue|
Capturing your The Alba|
Special Moments
Frame by Frame Glenburn Lodge & Spa|
Askari Lodge & Spa |
Snowflake Photography
Kloozicht Lodge & Spa|

Decor Trends, Tips & Advice

Read all the essentials that every BRIDE needs to plan the perfect wedding

FASHION | BEAUTY | DECOR & HIRE |

ISSUE 9 2019 SUMMER FASHION | FITNESS FOR THE BRIDE
R 60.43 (incl Vat)

Other countries R52.54 (excl Vat)

FIND YOUR STYLE - All in one Wedding

Decor Inspiration brought to you by: Simply Wed















Photogragher - Lindie Meyer Veune -Shepstons Garden

Photogragher - Lindie Meyer Veune -Shepstons Garden



In this issue...

1 Wedding Trends
18 Spring & Summer Trends For 2019
What’s Hot Now and What’s Hot Later

2 Bridal Advice
20 Lets Get Back to Basics
23 Save you Dates with a twist
24 Your Guide to will youe be my Bridesmaids
26 She’s more than your Bridesmaid She’s
Your Best Friend
36 How to deal with stress leading up to your
Wedding Day
56 Breakfast Wedding - The Benefits
of Morning Breakfast

14

16

[email protected] | www.weddingessentialmagazine.co.za | DIGITAL MAGAZINE

3 Designers & coutures
Lovoglio Bridal Botique

4 Wedding Planning
60 When to bring in Experts Wedding
Planner
46 Weddding Planning tips - Tips when planning a
wedding when you are short of time

5 Health & Beauty
34 Keepm your Health in Check with
Nutrition
34 Keepm your Health in Check with
Nutrition
38 Exercising with yor partner- The
Benefits thereof
44 Get the Minimalism - the Arrt of
Minimalistic Make up
46 What is Air Brush Make up-The
Air Brush Make-up

6 Wedding Venue & Decor

70 Q&A with Simply Wed
75 Decor Inspiration by Sweeetfontein
99 Q&A Venue Advise with Grasslands
101 Wedding Inspiration Decor by Candles 4 U

7 Real Wedding
33 Glenburn Lodge & Spa
43 The Alba Restaurant
59 Kloofzicht Lodge & Spa
65 Shepstone Gardens
73 Simply Wed
89 Snowflake Photography
95 Askari Lodge & Spa
103 Grasslands Wedding Venue
115 Fairway Lodge & Spa

[email protected] | www.weddingessentialmagazine.co.za | DIGITAL MAGAZINE

Essential Note Tracey – Anne | Owner & Publisher

It gives me great pleasure to present this exciting the new
issue of Wedding Essentials & Essential Groom Maga-
zine, packed with inspiration and fabulous wedding ideas
brought to you by some of S. A’s top service providers in
the wedding industry.

In our summer issue we have brought you some ideas
and inspiration for your spring & summer wedding, fea-
turing aspects such as the lasts Trends Forecast, new looks
on décor& weddings ensuring that you are fully prepared
for your special day.
In this issue we have also brought you dress, designs from
the new bridal boutique in Johannesburg called Lo Voglio
These dresses will bring inspiration to any Spring sum-
mer bride showing you that all new brides to be can look
so beautiful , in a range of elegant styles.
With this issue, we have also covered all aspects of th a
spring summer wedding themes, followed by so
inspirational real weddings that one can see in this issue.
As all you brides to be out there , the ones that have been
following the magazine, will know that we at Wedding
Essentials also cover the reality of what a bride will go
through when planning her wedding, on the big day, and
of course life after weddings.
So in this issue, we have given you an insight to articles
such as , choosing your brides maid , 10 ways to keep your
guest happy , tips on choosing your menu and lastly 9
Summer Wedding Mistakes, these are there to help un-
derstand things better as when a couple is planning a
wedding together, they are sure to go through some ups
and down, don’t let that could your judgment to the deci-
sion you have made, and by reading this article it allows
you to now have to handle these situation.
In this issue we brought you some amazing advice form
well knower wedding photographer Karla from Snow
flake photography , he offers an insight to what you would
need to take into consideration when choosing your
wedding photographer and more, a must read for any
bride who is looking for that photographer ,that will
capture those special moment for her on the big day,
giving her unforgettable memories that she can cherish
forever.
We have enjoyed putting this issue together and being in-
spired by new looks and ideas and also meeting
interesting people and up and coming service providers
within the industry, once again we hope that this issue
will guide you, and help you bring style and elegance to
your special day.
Enjoy this Issue.

14 | Wedding Essentials

Wedding Essentials | 15

Contributors in the Overberg. We also host spe
conferences & functions.
1 Hair & Makeup Artist :
Madeleine Botha 3
Her work has been featured in some of South Africa’s
top magazine’s like Cosmo’ & Savage Magazine. 4

2 Real Weddings : 5
Featuring;
Shepstone Gardens Photographer Alexander Smith
Simply Wed
The Alba tracey.essentialmedia@gmai
Grassland Coference & Wedding Venue

3 Glenburn Lodge & Spa
Dress Designer: Lovoglio Bridal
Boutique

4 Photographer:
Alexander Smith

We’re thieves of moments. Stealing them wher-
ever we go and making that feeling last... forever.

5 Expert Advice
Featuring an interview with Karla from
Snowfalake Photography were she offeres
valuable advise on choosing you wedding
photographer for your special day

6 Creative Designer:
Tanaka Tapera
A new up & coming, energetic designer that is
proud to be a part of the Essential Media team,
bringing her expertise on graphics, page layouts
and design.

16 | Wedding Essentials

ectacular

GM - Rina De Wet

3 Photographer:
Alexander Smith

We’re thieves of moments. Stealing them

wherever we go and making that feeling

last... forever.
4 Models: 20 Model Management
Twenty Model Management agency repre- & Summer Brides
senting both local and international talent.

SpringWe had the pleasure of utilizing two mod-
els from their agency on our shoot.

5 Creative Designer:
Eugene Esterhuizen
A new up & coming, energetic designer that

is proud to be a part of the essential media

team, bringing his expertise on graphics,

page layouts and design.

il.com | www.weddingessentialmagazine.co.za | 021 672 0004

TELEPHONE
+27 (0)84 880 7869
+27 (0)84 322 3339
58 Komatie Road, Emmarentia,Randburg

www.lovogliobridal.co.za

Spring & Summer
Trends For 2019

Today, we're sharing some of the big, beautiful and unique wedding trends that are starting to appear in

real weddings, from bright yellow dresses to boho dried blooms, and lashings of glitter alongside veils that go on for
Following on from foliage-heavy bouquets and pampas grass, there's a growing trend for dried flowers (especially
amongst bohemian brides.) Not only is this a sustainable choice that makes a beautiful keepsake, but they look
wild, unusual and gorgeous too! While most brides wouldn't dream of ditching fresh blooms completely, florists are
beginning to work with dried flowers more and are incorporating them into fresh arrangements

Leading on from hand-painted and watercolour wedding cakes, spatula cakes have been popping up all over
Instagram, so it's only a matter of time before we feature one in a real wedding. Bakers like Sweet Bloom Cakes
are spearheading this trend for beautiful, colourful cakes with icing that looks like it's been lifted straight from
artist's palette. See our recommended wedding cake bakers to have your own spatula painted wedding cake
designed.
Women Making Speeches
Mums, bridesmaids, brides and sisters, we loved seeing more women on the mic last year and hope it's something
we'll see even more of in 2019. Why should men get to make all the wedding speeches?

The Bridal Party
Ever wondered why we have bridesmaids at all? And why they all dress alike? In the Middle Ages, the purpose of
bridesmaids was to all dress in white and surround the bride to fool spirits into thinking they were her. That way she
wouldn't be cursed on her wedding day. So when your mates are arguing about what dress to get, or having to do
wedding admin, you can let them know, it could be worse!

Alternatives to the traditional bridal party:
Shake up your bridal party, have a 'Man of Honour' or a 'Best Lady' if you want and don't feel restricted into just
choosing your pals or siblings who are the same gender
Encourage your bridal party to wear something they feel comfortable in
Ditch the bridal party altogether and have friends and family participate in other ways
Have a mixed henstag - who says you should only say goodbye to your singlehood with friends of the same gender!

The Invitations
Wedding invitation wording is steeped in etiquette and formality (we've got a whole post on it here) but there
are some ways you can inject a little equality into your wedding invitations.

Alternatives to wedding invitation wording:
Avoid Mr & Mrs John Smith, Mr & Mrs Smith already implies the couple are married, the man doesn't need his
name in there too!
Avoid using Mrs altogether - there's no equivalent for men that shows their marital status
Unless your parents are paying for the wedding, the invitation doesn't need to be phrased as if they're inviting
the guests on your behalf

18 | Wedding Essentials

loral moon gates. Moon gate arches. Infinity arches. Round floral arbors, whatever you want to call them - these dreamy, full moon shaped arches are the hottest
floral trend for 2019. Really adding that wow factor with their unique shape and ethereal nature, the options are endless for using them to frame your big day.

Floral moon gates make a pretty epic backdrop for your vows but can also double up as a sweetheart or top table backdrop, a gorgeous photo booth backdrop or,
for framing the cake table. We've gathered a few of our faves to help get you inspired as well as some top tips for having your own!
Wedding Trend: Floral Moon Gates | see more on www.onefabday.com

Wedding Essentials | 19

Let’s go back to basics

Being engaged means you are committing yourself to
spending the rest of your life with your one and only True

T he days leading up to your official wedding . Grow a garden, grow love
day may be clouded with the constant Being engaged is all about growing together as a couple.
stress of wedding plans and ideas. Thus, the With a lot of patience, trust, love and respect, your
true meaning of being engaged falls away, relationship will grow into a beautiful and prosperous
becoming a mere formality of your promise. marriage. Just like a garden needs water, nourished compost
In order for you to find the true meaning of and sunshine, your relationship needs TLC. The best way
being engaged, you need to take a few steps back and evaluate to truly understand how precious it is to grow a strong
the situation. There are many fun things to do as an engaged relationship is to learn from nature. Grow a garden together;
couple and with a little twist, you can even learn a thing or two it need not be a vegetable garden, it can be a patch of lilies
about your betrothed! or roses. By giving your garden the TLC it needs as a couple,
you are not only doing something fun together, you are
Forget the selfies – learning about growth!
do a photoshoot
Camping out in the back yard
The constant selfies you post all over social media of you and
your fiancé may be cute, but why not give it that something Who said kids are the only ones who can camp out in the
extra and opt for a professional photoshoot? Not only will this back yard? This is yet another great way for engaged couples
be an unforgettable experience as an engaged couple, you’ll also to add a little spice to their relationship! Imagine a clear sky
have a few awesome photos to add to your album to show your filled with thousands of stars while you rest your head on
kids one day… your soon-to-be’s chest. You take a sip of the champagne
you picked out for the romantic evening under the stars and
The “no wedding talk” games suddenly, a shooting star lights up the night! “Make a wish,
my darling!”…
Planning your wedding can be time-consuming and may even
make you forget what is most important at that very moment. A bucket list of to-do’s
Spending some time with you fiancé while making the “no
wedding talk” rule at the order of the day will give you some If you’re feeling a little adventurous, make a bucket list of
time to simply enjoy being engaged. A blissful afternoon in the all the things you want to do as an engaged couple before
park or a candle-lit dinner at a romantic restaurant could be the day of your wedding. Remember that this does not
just what you need! But remember, no wedding talk! include picking out a wedding dress or having a bachelor
party. These are the things you want to show your darling
Going out to paint the town red love and the places you want to take him or her before
you walk down the aisle. Some ideas may include going
Staring at four walls all day while in the company of your to a drive through movie theatre or taking long strolls
soon-to-be husband or wife isn’t the best way to start the through magical forests filled with promises!
adventure of a life together. Open the front door and go places
you both love! This includes horseback riding, ice skating, William Shakespeare once said, “When I saw you, I
picnicking, going to a shooting range as well as fishing. It’s fell in love and you smiled because you knew.” Falling in
important though, when going out, you need to take the other love is easy but if you’re in it for the long run, you need
party into consideration as to what goes and what doesn’t… A to make sure the engagement phase of your life together
day at the gaming arcade or a ballet performance may not be forms the foundation of a great marriage. So what are you
of everyone’s liking, but that is the only way you’ll get to know waiting for? Enjoy engaged life! WE
what your better half likes and dislikes.

20 | Wedding Essentials

I love you’ means

that I accept you for the person that you are, and that I do not wish to change you into
someone else. It means that I will love you and stand by you even through the worst of
times. It means loving you even when you’re in a bad mood, or too tired to do the things I
want to do. It means loving you when you’re down, not just when you’re fun to be with. ‘I
love you’ means that I know your deepest secrets and do not judge you for them, asking in
return that you do not judge me for mine. It means that I care enough to fight for what
we have and that I love you enough not to let go. It means thinking of you, dreaming of you,

wanting and needing you constantly, and hoping you feel the same way for me.

Wedding Essentials | 21

22 | Wedding Essentials

SAVE WE’RE
YOUR DATES GETTING
WITH A MARRIED
TWIST

T he feeling of starting a new life with your soon- Now that you have the save the date etiquette down, you can make
to-be is something one cannot explain. It feels use of these fun and creative ways to make save the date cards and
like the world is right at your feet and you’re crafts!
floating on cloud nine; in the arms of your
one true love… So, when sending out “Save Write it; save it
the Date” cards, one would want to make sure When sending out your save the date invites, why don’t you include
your wedding date will be the celebration of the year! To do this, a a coloured pen? This way, your guests have a fun way to write down
simple note in the mail with your wedding date on it just won’t do your special date on their calendars; ensuring they won’t forget!
the trick.
Plant the date
You need to be creative when doing this. I know, I know, you’re Consider printing save the dates on paper that can be planted. By
practically jumping out of your skin right now to shout “I’m getting the time your wedding approaches, recipients will have beautiful
married!” to anyone who might listen. But if you’re planning wildflowers to remind them of the event.
a celebration that will “wow” your guests, why not start off the
countdown with a little something extra? Mini Canvas and Easel
A mini canvas and easel with your date printed on it are cute
Before digging into the crafting bag to start creating, take a minute enough to be displayed before, during and after the wedding.
to go through the following rules of etiquette when it comes to
saving the date: Inflate the date
Adding a deflated balloon to your invite is yet another fun way of
Send save the date invites six months before the ceremony. Any reminding your guests of the day! When inflated, these balloons
earlier and you run the risk of your date or venue changing. will look super cute with your wedding date written or printed on
them!
If you want to save money, only send them to out-of-town guests
and people you know will need to plan far in advance. Knot the date
Adding a 3D aspect to your invite creates a rustic feel and when
They are a must for destination weddings or if your wedding opened up, a string will be tightened on each end, creating a punny
happens to fall on a three-day holiday weekend. way of saying “I’m getting married!”

Be upfront about who’s invited. Does the guest receive a plus-one Cookie dough the date
or are you banning children from your wedding? It’s important to Few things top an edible save the date! It’s pretty much the sweetest
add this to the content of the card. way possible to ask your guests to attend your special day!

Remember to add “Invitation to Follow.” Box the date
We all love to receive packages in the mail. Get your guests excited
Don’t forget to include your wedding website URL if you are with a tiny box full of adorable trinkets and shiny things.
planning your wedding online.
Whatever you choose to do for your save the date invite, have fun
and start counting down the days with your guests! WE

Wedding Essentials | 23

Bridesmaids be my bridesmaid

Your guide to
“WILL YOU
BE MY
BRIDESMAID?”
So, how do you ask your best friends
to be your bridesmaids? With
these 8 ideas to ask “will you be my
bridesmaid?”, there is no way your

T he question has been 3 Something for all 6 Something sweet
popped and your head your sparkles You can even choose a sweet and
is buzzing with ideas Another great idea is a jewellery tasty way of asking “Will You Be
for your wedding! But box that can be filled with love My Bridesmaid?” Spoil your bridal
who will help you plan party with delicious cookies with letters
every detail and who such as a small gift or note, which can be iced on them that spell out the
will be there to keep you sane throughout treasured by your bridesmaids as a keepsake
the process? Bridesmaids are the ladies 7“Big Question”!
that stand at your side through many late 4of your wedding. Hitting the jackpot
nights and countless decisions that have to Wine and dine Give your girls a scratch-off card
be made. They are the ladies that, in a way, A ‘Will you be my Bridesmaid?’ that is seriously too cute for words!
become your sisters; the feminine shoulders wine label that includes your You can even write a personal
that keep your spirits lifted, even though bridesmaid’s name, details of your
you feel like a runaway bride. message for each of your soon-to-be
wedding and a personalized message that
So, how do you ask your best friends to hints at the future shared enjoyment of the 8bridesmaids to reveal.
be your bridesmaids? With these 8 ideas to Popping the
ask “will you be my bridesmaid?”, there is 5wine! question cards
Crossing the question If you’re feeling a little creative,
1no way your friends will let you down! A fun, custom crossword puzzle why not make your own “Will you
The Bridesmaid box card that pops the question, “Will
Have your bridesmaid’s name You Be My Bridesmaid?” in a be my bridesmaid” pop-up card? When
displayed on her own personalized your bridesmaids-to-be open their cards,
keepsake box in gold, silver or any brain-teaser way. a pretty hand-crafted picture will pop up,
other colour she loves! In this box, you can sporting the million dollar question! WE
add some keepsakes and pictures of you
with your besties, making them see how

2much they mean to you!
Puzzle me pretty
A “Will you be my bridesmaid?”
keepsake puzzle that will be
a surprise for your intended

bridesmaid. Once the puzzle is solved using
the few clue letters, it can be framed and
cherished as a keepsake afterward.

BRIDESMAIDS ARE THE LADIES THAT

STAND AT YOUR SIDE THROUGH MANY LATE NIGHTS AND COUNTLESS DECISIONS

THAT HAVE TO BE MADE

24 | Wedding Essentials

Wedding Essentials | 25

SHE’S MORE
THAN JUST YOUR
BRIDESMAID, SHE’S

YOUR Best Friend
TShow it with a unique bridesmaid gift
he opportunity to have one or more It’s a known fact that girls love to be pampered.
bridesmaids to help you make your Why not pamper your bridesmaids; not only before
wedding day flawless is something the wedding but as a gift? When thinking about
every bride wants. It’s much easier pampering, a gift voucher for a manicure, pedicure
to have a few opinions and extra or a relaxing massage would do the trick! If your
hands when it comes to dress fittings, bridesmaids live life in the fast lane, you could opt for a
flower choices as well as the “oh-so-delicious” wedding more on-the-go gift such as silk pyjamas, a makeup bag
cake tasting. With all that a bridesmaid is required to or her favourite scent.
do, giving her a bridesmaid gift is only but a small way
of saying thank you for those meaningful words and When entertainment is at the order of
hushed advice when cold feet dares to set in. the day

Having said that, and taking into account all that Life was made for living and yours is just beginning!
she has done for you to help make your wedding day To show your bridesmaids how much you appreciate
the best that ever was, you wouldn’t want to give her them for being a part of those first steps, you can
just any old gift. You would want to give her something choose to entertain them with tickets to a sporting
special. You would want to give her something that event, a book they’ll not be able to put down or the
shows your deep appreciation and confidence that not latest movie releases. If you feel a little adventurous,
only is she your bridesmaid; she is your best friend. you can even put together a gift basket filled with
But the question on every bride’s lips will be; what gift playing cards, board games and some treats to enjoy
do I give her to represent my gratitude? What do I give them with.
her to show how much I appreciate the fact that she
stood by my side while I pledged my love to the man Remember that creativity is key and the more of
who makes my world spin? Fret not, my bride, for here it you use when deciding which gift will best and
follows the answer to your questions! send the right message, the more exhilarated your
bridesmaids will be when you present them with their
All things sweet and bubbly gifts. After all, bridesmaids, also referred to as the “I
do crew”, are the ones who will keep you sane on the
By this, I don’t mean go to the supermarket and purchase days leading up to the day you say “I do”! WE
a box of chocolates or a bottle of cheap wine. To really
show your appreciation, you need to think out of the When entertainment is at the order of
chocolate box. Imagine how much your bridesmaids the day
would love a packet of gourmet coffee? The smell, the
taste and oh, the warmth of the liquid slipping down Life was made for living and yours is just beginning!
your throat… Or if she prefers a healthier approach to To show your bridesmaids how much you appreciate
life, why not give her some sushi making supplies? With them for being a part of those first steps, you can
this, you can add a little something extra and throw in a choose to entertain them with tickets to a sporting
bottle of bubbly to give it that tantalising twist! event, a book they’ll not be able to put down or the
latest movie releases. If you feel a little adventurous,
Play with her passion you can even put together a gift basket filled with
playing
To make use of these types of ideas, one requires a cards, board games and some treats to enjoy them
deeper understanding of who your bridesmaid is and with.
what her passions are. If you have more than one
bridesmaid, you need to take each individual’s passion Remember that creativity is key and the more of
into consideration. Where you would adorn one it you use when deciding which gift will best and
bridesmaid with tickets to a ballet performance in the send the right message, the more exhilarated your
city, you would give another equipment to start those bridesmaids will be when you present them with their
pottery classes she has been gushing over all season! gifts. After all, bridesmaids, also referred to as the “I
do crew”, are the ones who will keep you sane on the
The perfect pamper days leading up to the day you say “I do”! WE

26 | Wedding Essentials

A hand-crafted gift of excellence
With a little creative thinking, a hand-crafted gift will truly make her heart swell with joy over having the honour of being
your bridesmaid! If the season is turning into colder days, a perfect present would be a hand-knitted scarf. Don’t worry,
if you’re not too good with needle and thread, help is but a phone call away! If the season isn’t in your favour, another option
is to make your bridesmaids some scented candles or all natural soaps; something much appreciated after a long day at

Wedding Essentials | 27

28 | Wedding Essentials

Wedding Essentials | 29

58 Komatie Road, Emmarentia,Randburg
+27 (0)84 880 7869 /+27 (0)84 322 3339

30 | Wedding Essentials

Wedding Essentials | 31

a REAL Wedding of Claudia & Ivan at Glenburn Loadge & Spa Date of Wedding: 01 June 2019

Real Wedding Information

Where was the dress purchased from: Wedding Connexion in Boksburg
Where was the suite purchased from: Abrams in Oriental Plaza
Who made the Wedding cake: Novelty cakes where from Serendipity Novelty Cakes and
the cheese wheeled cake we purchased it from Kee Ingredients
Draping: FF Decor (Marna)
Decor & Flowers: To the T Event (Taryn)
Photographer: Patrick Furter Photography
Videographer: Warren Anderson Video Production
Photo Booth: Magic Mirror Memories
Make up: Cathy Heaton Makeup
Hair Stylist: Innovation Hair by Michelle Curran
32 | Wedding Essentials

Unforgettable
Moments

at
Glenburn
Lodge&Spa

Tips for the Journey

Take part in the journey with your partner to be from planning to execution by supporting, encouraging, being patient and just
standing by them with love.
Choose your retinue wisely, you'll have to lean and rely on them.
Select reputable and trust worthy suppliers this will prevents room for disappointment
Do an engagement shoot with your wedding photographer you won't regret it.
There will always be critics, don't entertain them just do what the heart says.
Take a few days off before the wedding just to finalise the last touch ups and to avoid extra pressure.

Tips for the day

Not everything will go perfectly as planned, you know & accept it, don't stress, nobody else knows the plan so just go with it ;-)
Enjoy every moment as the wedding day goes as fast as a blink of an eye.
Keep smiling your on candid camera.

Wedding Essentials | 33

Health Nutrition

KEEP YOUR HEALTH IN
CHECK WITH NUTRITION

Here are some fitness and nutritional trends to help the bride-to-be keep healthy
while fitting into the dressof her dreams!

F itting into that gorgeous Pick up some weights mind and make you more effective. Writing the
wedding gown of yours takes Don’t worry, they won’t make you a bulky bride, goal down allows you to refer to it and refocus
time, effort and at times, but will help you to appear more toned and sleek. your efforts when required.
requires you to literally walk This increased tone will increase your metabolism
that extra mile. Bombarding and cause your body to burn more fat. Keep your dinners small
yourself with detox drinks If you eat a large meal in the evening, your body
and brews to which one can’t even pronounce Get some well-deserved has little to do with the energy it provides and
the names, won’t help you. In fact, these brews shut-eye this can result in it being stored, as fat! By eating
may only put a damper on your spirits as many Ghrelin is the hormone that makes you hungry breakfast and healthy snacks between meals,
of them don’t work, putting you at risk of not and when you don’t get enough sleep, its levels you’ll be less famished when you get home and
keeping healthy before, during and after your increase. This is your body’s way of getting will be satisfied with a smaller dinner.
wedding day. more energy from food that it didn’t get from a
refreshing sleep. Get your 6-8 hours a night and Your health is one of the most important
Hence, here are some fitness and nutritional prevent this from happening. aspects of marriage; and not just for your wedding
trends that were proven over and over to help the day. To live a healthy lifestyle; whether you are
bride-to-be keep healthy while fitting into the Set some reachable goals destined to walk down the aisle in a few months
dress of her dreams! As opposed to being vague and stating ‘I want to or not, is crucial to you as well as your partner.
lose weight’ – be specific. How much do you The sooner you start, the sooner you will reap
Avoid those “lose 10 kilos want to lose? How many dress sizes do you from the results! WE
in one week” diets want to drop? This will help to focus your
As tempting as they sound with their promises of
big results in little time, they will leave you worse
than they found you. You will lose some weight,
but it will mostly be water and muscle! And when
you stop the diet, it will go right back on again.

Drink that water
There are times when you can confuse your
body’s cry for water as a need for food. Avoid the
confusion by staying hydrated. Keep a bottle of
water handy at all times.
Remember to eat the most important meal of the
day
I understand that you might be in a rush in the
morning, but there’s no better way to start your
day than making time for breakfast. Skipping
breakfast causes your metabolism to be slower
and you’ll hang onto fat instead of burning it.

Keep your snacks healthy
Eat a healthy snack composed of fruit, veg and
nuts between breakfast and lunch, and again
between lunch and dinner. Not only will you get a
ton of fibre, vitamins and minerals, but you’ll also
be less hungry between meals. You’ll find you

have less need for high sugar and high-fat

snacks like biscuits and cakes.

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Health dealing with stress

HOW TO DEAL WITH
STRESS LEADING UP TO
YOUR WEDDING DAY

IStress-relief: Good for the knots half of the day? Wedding Essentials and If the stress of organizing and planning your
mind, body and soul Essential Groom gives you the solution to all wedding is making you see red, you might want
your problems! to consider trying to burn off some energy the
f you have been experiencing an old-fashioned way, through exercise. Exercise
increased sense of stress leading up Organization is your friend relieves stress, and you don’t have to be an athlete
to your wedding day, congratulate Even if you’re the type who’s never made a list in to walk or even run around the block. Engaging
yourself. It probably shows that your life, now is the time to change that. There in moderate exercise for as few as 30 minutes a
you are in touch with your feelings. will be hundreds of details to pin down, and day can improve your mood.
However, if you feel bad or somehow trying to keep track of them all will seriously fray
inadequate because you feel stressed, think again. your nerves. Treat your body right
No one escapes stress. You might think it’s impossible to get eight hours
The pre-wedding period can be an especially Stay within your comfort zone of sleep every night or to eat three squares a day,
stressful time. Managing stress and anxiety Many stressed brides schedule “relaxing” but neglecting your basic needs is only going to
effectively can be crucial to making this time a activities that are out of their usual routines. make your wedding stress worse. Lack of food
positive one for you and your partner. You want These activities can include yoga, spending time and sleep tend to increase feelings of anxiety
your wedding planning process to bring you with a close friend, visiting your favourite book and when you’re tired or hungry, you’re more
closer and build your intimacy. Over-stress can store or just having a hot bath filled with bubbles prone to making bad judgments. But, instead of
interfere with this important goal. and a glass of wine. grabbing the ice-cream from the fridge, opt for a
healthier snack such as a salad or wrap.
Sources of pre-wedding stress Don’t try to wear too many hats
During the pre-wedding period there are so Your role in the wedding is to be the bride. Not There is no way you can completely escape the
many stressful decisions, expenses, expectations the caterer, the florist or the bandleader. That is stress factor when planning your wedding, but it
and new roles. Many people do not realize how why you hired them. Their job is to make yours is possible to make it more manageable. That way,
great an impact this stress can have on their easier so let them do what they do best as at the when the final countdown starts, you can look
happiness and relationships. Perhaps one of the end of the day, their professionalism is what into the mirror with a confident smile and say,
most difficult aspects of the pre-wedding period you’re paying for! “You’ve got this, girl!” WE
can be the disparity between its inherent stress,
on one hand, and expectations that it will be a Get him involved
time of happiness and fulfilment, on the other. Now, before you toss out his video games with
Perfectionism about wedding arrangements is that tacky old beer stein, talk to him about what
very common and can be a big source of stress. you need and expect from him. Jot down a list of
things you’d like him to help with and keep him
So, how do you conquer the wedding-stress posted on deadlines and vendor meeting dates.
syndrome that seems to have your stomach in Chances are he’ll be glad to assist if you let him;
you just need to give him something to do.
STRESS MANAGEMENT
INVOLVES FOUR TASKS: You wedding day contact
Give someone the authority to make last-minute
1 Recognize and understand the decisions and insulate you from snafus. If the
signs of stress. chandelier plummets into the wedding cake
2 Identify and understand the ten minutes before the reception, you’re the last
sources of stress. person who should be hearing about it!
3 Learn to manage controllable
sources of stress. Let’s get physical
4 Learn to support yourself and
cope with stress reactions to

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Fitness & Health | Exercising with your fiance

Exercising With

Your Fiance

TThe Benefits Thereofhe two of you may be at different fitness levels and have different goals,

but that doesn’t mean that you can’t
exercise together. Here are some reasons to give it a try.

GOT YOUR BACK MOTIVATION AND SUPPORT
With someone else watching your form and being Getting encouragement and praise from your
there to help you when you need it, you’ll exercise partner is one of the best motivators. It will help
more safely than both of you
if you were alone. remain consistent and take care of one another.

QUALITY TIME A DEEPER BOND
Couples can spend most of their time apart due to Exercise produces endorphins that create feelings
careers and other of happiness, reduce stress, and also increase
responsibilities. Instead of hitting the gym alone, arousal and libido. Studies show that men and
plan a workout time that women who exercise regularly
fits both of your schedules. You’ll reach your fitness experience better, and more frequent, intimacy
goals, without sacrificing that one-on-one time that with their partners.
every partnership needs.
RESPECT
A COMMON INTEREST Taking care of your body and your health shows
Add exercise to your list of your shared interests. the person you care about that you want to be
The possibility for new, unique activities is endless your best for them, and that you want to be
and keeps things around for years to come. >>
exciting. You can never have too much .
in common.

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a REAL Wedding at The Alba

FINER DETAILS ABOUT THE WEDDING
THE VENUE – Ceremony – The Alba Restau-
rant Boat / Reception – MAReSOL Restaurant
THE CATERING – MAReSOL Restaurant
THE DECOR AND FLOWERS -
THE DJ – Mario Roach
THE PHOTOGRAPHER – Shireen Louw

42 | Wedding Essentials

There is no fear in love.
But perfect love drives
out fear, because fear has
to do with punishment.
The one who fears is not
made perfect in love.
We love because he first

loved us.
1 John 4: 18-19

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Wedding Essentials | 43

Health & Beauty The Art of Minimilasm

Get the look, minimalist make-up

T “The most beautiful look for a bride, we find of violet and plum adds beautiful contrast on
he nude, or minimalist make up is the one that naturally enhances her best their lips and eyes says Parker and Mayer’s. “If
look is enjoying phenomenal appeal, thanks features and the one she is comfortable with” you have green eyes, a dark green eyeliner or
mainly to a barrel of celebrities champion- says make up duo Yumna Parker and Widaad cobalt blue eyeliner works well, while khaki
ing the new look. For those not in the know, Mayers from Buff Makeup in Cape Town. shades enhance hazel eyes colours,” they say.
the nude look encompasses shades of blush, “If she loves wearing pink lip colour daily then Added additional layers and colours to a neu-
bronzer and lip stick that are barely there, with she should definitely wear it on her wedding tral look is also dependant on the season, with
liner and gloss adding drama and edge. day or a similar tone but it’s all about comfort”. a touch of bronzer needed in summer and a
The biggest attraction is its neutral and easy to Comfort also means knowing what is good for deeper tone of lip and eye colour for winter.
wear – versatility that is attracting bride who you and what is not. “When I meet with new This is also true depending on the time of the
wants a more au natural look on the big day. clients, they usually have a picture already reception; an evening wedding would require a
But how do you strike the perfect balance, so on hand, usually from a magazine, of how slightly more dramatic look, especially as there
you don’t look washed out or worst still, like they would like their make-up to be done,” will be more artificial lighting while brides
you turned up to your own wedding with no says Gerty Janse van Rensburg, a professional having a morning or afternoon reception, or
make-up on? make-up artist and owner of Essence of Beau- one that is outdoors, can make use of the natu-
The answer, it seems, lies in the skill of your ty, based in Worcester, Western Cape. ral light to offset a light and dewy look.
make up artist. “It is very important for me to be honest
“I enjoy a natural look on a bride, but it still with clients and explains that it is important How to achieve a minimalist look, ac-
entails applying quite a lot of makeup,” says to be realistic. Sometimes a cut-out from a cording to our experts:
Debi Tollman, who has been flying solo in magazine isn’t always the right kind of look for
the makeup industry for the last 35 years and them, especially once ive helped them identify •Keeping makeup light by using a tinted mois-
has a wealth of experience when it comes to their most attractive and unique facial features
wedding make up and brides. that should be enhanced and focussed on,” she turizer and concealer as opposed to an all over
“The flash from the camera often minimalizes explains. foundation. Use the moisturizer and concealer
the appearance of the amount of makeup on “It is also very important to take the client’s only where needed, such as on spots and under
a bride and so if you have too little on the personality in consideration. Loud and bright the eyes.
face at the start, you can risk looking quite lip and eye colour may not suit a bride who is
ghost-like,” she explains. “It is a fine balance usually timid, shy and quite and vice versa,” •If you do want to use a foundation, choose
between natural light, the flash on the camera she explains.
and the amount of makeup. Bare is not a good The bonus of natural, soft and elegant make one that matches the skin colour of your neck
look alone, but with the current amount of up is that it is suitable for all and one of the and shoulder and then use bronzers and high-
light, it can look great. It takes someone with easiest ways to look your best. It’s flawless, lighters to blend to your perfect shade that
years of experience to be able to do achieve fresh and creates a slightly glowing skin tone matches your skin tone.
this look successfully,” she goes on. which, according to makeup artists and previ-
While it is certainly on trend, the minimalist ous MAC consultant, Kat Nkopane, can be en- •A bronzer should only be used on the areas
look is by no means suitable for all and the hanced with a pop of colour, such as a classic
general rule is to choose a look that you feel red lip or false eyelashes for added drama. where the sun would naturally touch your face.
comfortable in. You do not want to change “False eyelashes coupled with a nude or bronze
yourself too much to look like something you tone of eyeshadow on the eye lid automati- •A brow gel can really help to enhance and de-
are not – and risk those nearest and dearest cally becomes a focal point on the face and
not recognising you at all. completes the look,” says Nkopane. “Soft fine your brows. Make sure the gel is the same
highlights are also a trend and I’m obsessing colour as your natural hair.
with using all types of highlighters, power,
liquids and creams to create added dimension •A sweep of light soft shimmer on the eye lids
and glow,” she adds.
For the ladies with blue and green eyes, shades with mascara and lip-gloss is perfect for a light
yet beautifully bare look.

Madeleine Botha
E-mail: [email protected]
Cell: 084 206 5905
Landline: 021 556 6138

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Health and Beauty | What is Air Brush Make-up?

The art of air brush make-up

Your how to guide for getting the perfect
look, for the perfect day.

AWhat is Airbrush Makeup? Airbrush vs. Traditional
irbrush makeup is a technique of Makeup Application
applying makeup to the skin using an airbrush system Airbrush
as opposed to the traditional method of using brushes,
sponges or fingers. The technique is similar to how spray Pro’s - Long Lasting, Camera Ready, Buildable Cov-
tan is applied, but on a smaller scale because it is typically erage, Fairly Quick to apply, feels light on the skin.
only applied to the face, although it can be used all over Con’s - Not for all Skin types, Some products streak
the body. The coverage can range from sheer to full as it is when wet, More Expensive, Cleaning between chang-
built up in layers so that you can get the perfect look for ing colours is a bit time consuming, Power outages
different occasions. (hopefully your artist has one that works with a
Is it suitable for all Skin types? battery as well as with electricity).
Just as with traditional makeup application it is not a one
size fit all scenarios. There is a type of airbrush liquid that Traditional
is best suited for each individual’s skin type. If you have Pro’s – Long Lasting, Camera Ready, Buildable Cov-
a very oily skin you would most probably have to go for erage, Fairly Quick to apply, Bigger variety of prod-
the water based airbrush liquid, if you have a dry skin or ucts to choose from and more versatile and easier to
more on the mature side the silicone based airbrush liquid manipulate, a lot more freedom to make changes to a
would be better suited for you. look. More detailed application can be achieved.
Does it last longer than the traditional makeup Cons – If not set with the correct type of setting
application? spray it can rub off, if applied incorrectly it can look
Not necessarily this all depends on the skill and experi- a bit cakey.
ence of your artist as well as the correct type of product With all this being said one application is in no
being used for your skin type. way Superior or better than the other technique, it
Is airbrush makeup better than traditional makeup? is the artists skill and experience that truly create
One application is in no way Superior or better than long-lasting, flawless and impeccable beauty, and
the other technique. Most fans of airbrush makeup will therefore should be considered with more care than
answer a resounding ‘yes!’ to this question. I however the method
know that this all depends on the skill and experience of
your makeup artist. There are a Pro’s and Con’s to both
methods of makeup applications.
Is Bridal airbrush makeup expensive?
For most makeup artists, airbrush is considered an add-
on and typically more expensive than a normal makeup
application. The actual makeup product itself in some
cases is also more expensive that traditional makeup
hence the higher charge for it. So if you’re planning to pay
for your bridal party’s services, airbrush may not be as
cost effective. But if you’re curious about trying airbrush,
ask about it during your makeup trial—it’s the perfect
time to try it out to see if you like it before spending the
extra money on the day of your wedding.

46 | Wedding Essentials

Makeup & Hair for the day - Memories for a Life-

MAKEUP & HAIR BY

Wedding Essentials | 47

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Health & Beauty Hair For The Big Day

Hair for the big day

Choosing your hair-do for the wedding

C hoosing the best hairstyle for your down, this is a great option as it carries the best
of both worlds.
ceremony is a rather challenging task. There’s a
lot to take into consideration, especially since it’s UP STYLE
never a one-size-fits-all situation. So we’ve set up
a list of your potential options when deciding on A simple bun, or elaborate braids, this hairstyle
the best do for your wedding day. also adds a great sense of versatility. There’s
so much you can do with an updo and work
Taking advantage of your hair’s natural qualities is particularly well with rounder faces. There is
a good way to avoid any potential mishaps. Thin- a possibility they could look a bit boring from
ner hair types may not be able to hold certain the front, but if you get creative with the back
styles but it’s all about your specific style of hair you should be able to rock the look. Make sure
really. You need to ask yourself questions like how you style it in a way that is comfortable, you
easy it is to manage your hair and what it is you’re don’t want the tension for the whole day.
going for in terms of style. Learn to understand
your hair, it’ll give your stylist more to work with. SIDE UP DO

LOOSE The great thing about a side updo is the fact
that it doesn’t take away from the front or the
A stunning look, timeless and glamorous, beau- back. It’s a great halfway point which isn’t too
tiful for most women as it frames the face nicely. complicated while also giving the illusion of
It will also cut out the possibility of a tension length. When photos are being taken, the best
headache, plus you don’t have to constantly worry way to accentuate your face is to have the updo
about it moving out of place. Be careful of wet facing the camera.
or humid days, as the moisture may cause some
unwanted frizziness. Make sure you double check weeks before the
wedding. See a professional to try out as many
HALF-HALF styles as possible so that you can make the best
choice. Make sure it suits your dress as well, it’s
An incredibly versatile way to do your hair for the always a good idea to wear your hairstyle back
wedding. You don’t have to constantly move the home and have a look at it while wearing your
hair out of your face, plus adding pins will keep dress.
it firmly in place. Just watch out for the bottom
half looking a bit messy as the day goes on. If you
can’t decide on whether your hair should be up or

Madeleine Botha
E-mail: [email protected]
Cell: 084 206 5905
Landline: 021 556 6138

50 | Wedding Essentials