Tips to help you walk down the aisle in style
THE wedding season has officially started and if you are walking down the aisle to help guide you, Sowetan spoke to wedding experts.
Dress
Finding the perfect wedding dress can be your biggest challenge, especially when you want your dress to be modern and on-trend.
Thandi Masondo, owner of A Bridal Affairs By Fashion Studio Collection in Rosebank, Johannesburg, says the ball-gown look is on its way out.
“Brides are more into figure-hugging dresses and for comfort’s sake they pick two-tier dresses that can be changed into a cocktail dress later,” she says.
Veils
Masondo says instead of veils, more brides are using fascinators (hair accessories made of lace, feathers or flowers.)
“But you can’t completely do away with the veil because of, among other things, the religious significance,” she says. Click here for more from Zenoyise Madikwa
Bridal table decor ideas
2010 brides are selecting bold colours – from ivory to cerise pink and red, using candles, flowers, table overlays, crystals and bamboo shoots…
Best wedding songs
Lone Star’s AMAZED and Aerosmith anthem I DON’T WANT TO MISS A THING have topped a new U.K. list of wedding songs.
Amazed was chosen as U.K. newlyweds’ top choice for a first dance tune, according to royalty collectors PRS For Music.
Diane Warren power ballad I Don’t Want To Miss A Thing came in second and From This Moment On by Shania Twain rounded out the top three. – Click here for more>>
Step-by-step wedding planning guide
9 – 24 MONTHS BEFORE THE WEDDING
ANNOUNCE YOUR ENGAGEMENT TO FRIENDS & FAMILY
DISCUSS & SET YOUR WEDDING DATE
DISCUSS AND SET A BUDGET & DECIDE HOW EXPENSES WILL BE SHARED
DISCUSS LEVEL OF FORMALITY, # OF GUESTS AND COLOR SCHEME
DISCUSS PRENUPTIAL AGREEMENT AND RELATED ISSUES
HIRE A WEDDING CONSULTANT (optional)
MAKE A NEAT FILE FOR CONTRACTS, FORMS, IMPORTANT PAPERS, ETC.
START COMPILING AN INVITATION LIST
ATTEND BRIDAL SHOWS/EXPOS
TAKE AN ENGAGEMENT PHOTO
SEND ENGAGEMENT ANNOUNCEMENT AND PHOTO TO LOCAL NEWSPAPER(S)
CHOOSE AND BOOK YOUR RECEPTION SITE
HIRE A CATERER (if necessary)
SELECT A VENUE
SPEAK TO AND RESERVE AN OFFICIANT
DISCUSS ATTIRE FOR THE BRIDE, GROOM AND BRIDAL PARTY
DISCUSS HEADPIECE & OTHER ACCESSORIES FOR THE BRIDE
ORDER BRIDAL WEAR
ORDER BRIDESMAIDS’ DRESSES & TUXEDOS
SCHEDULE FITTINGS FOR THE BRIDE, GROOM AND BRIDAL PARTY
CHOOSE AND HIRE A PHOTOGRAPHER AND / OR VIDEOGRAPHER
CHOOSE AND HIRE A DJ/BAND/OTHER ENTERTAINMENT FOR THE RECEPTION
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6 – 9 MONTHS BEFORE THE WEDDING
SCHEDULE BACHELOR / BRIDESMAIDS PARTY
RESERVE ADDITIONAL ITEMS FOR THE CEREMONY & RECEPTION (if necessary)
Tents
Tables, Chairs and Linens
Dishes, Glasses and Utensils
Arches
Balloons
Additional Decorations
Other Items
HIRE A FLORIST AND CHOOSE FLORAL ARRANGEMENTS
CONFIRM DELIVERY DATE OF GOWNS AND DRESSES
MAKE NECESSARY ARRANGEMENTS FOR TIME OFF FROM WORK
MAKE ARRANGEMENTS TO TAKE DANCING LESSONS IF NECESSARY (optional)
MAKE HONEYMOON PLANS AND RESERVATIONS
RESERVE A BRIDAL SUITE FOR THE WEDDING NIGHT
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6 MONTHS BEFORE THE WEDDING
PURCHASE OTHER NECESSARY ITEMS FOR THE CEREMONY & RECEPTION
Toasting Glasses
Cake Knife, Server Set & Cake Top
Guest Book & Pen
Ring Pillow
Flower Girl Basket
Aisle Runner (optional)
Candelabras (optional)
Wishing Bubbles (optional)
Rice or Confetti (optional)
Wedding Bells (optional)
Candle(s) for Ceremony (optional)
Candle Holder(s) (optional)
FINALIZE HONEYMOON PLANS
Be sure to find out about passports, photo identification and other documents required if you will be leaving the country.
ORDER INVITATIONS & THANK YOU NOTES
FINALIZE YOUR INVITATION LIST
START ADDRESSING INVITATIONS
HIRE A LIMOUSINE OR TRANSPORTATION SERVICE
HIRE A MAKE-UP ARTIST AND/OR HAIR STYLIST (optional)
HELP BOTH MOTHERS SHOP FOR THEIR DRESSES
PURCHASE SHOES, GARTER AND OTHER ACCESSORIES FOR THE BRIDE
BUY YOUR WEDDING RINGS
GROOM BUYS A WEDDING GIFT FOR THE BRIDE
BRIDE BUYS A WEDDING GIFT FOR THE GROOM
BUY SOUVENOIRS FOR GUESTS
SELECT A SONG FOR YOUR FIRST DANCE
SELECT OTHER SPECIAL SONGS (Cake Cutting, etc.)
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1 – 3 MONTHS BEFORE THE WEDDING
DISTRIBUTE SCHEDULE OF EVENTS TO BRIDAL PARTY
Wedding Day (Time & Place To Meet and Other Details)
Rehearsal and Rehearsal Dinner
Bachelor Party (if available)
Bridesmaids’ or Bachelorette Party (if available)
Final Fittings and Pick-Up Dates for Tuxedos and Dresses
CHECK MARRIAGE LICENSE REQUIREMENTS
Blood Tests
Medical Exams
Birth Certificates
Other
SEND OUT INVITATIONS (AT LEAST 6 WEEKS IN ADVANCE)
MAKE A LIST AND RECORD RSVP’s AND GIFTS RECEIVED
SCHEDULE FINAL GOWN/HEADPIECE & DRESS FITTINGS
SCHEDULE FINAL TUXEDO FITTINGS
ORDER YOUR WEDDING CAKE & CAKE TOP
ARRANGE FOR MOVING BELONGINGS TO NEW RESIDENCE
GET THE MARRIAGE LICENSE
MAKE APPOINTMENT(S) WITH HAIR/BEAUTY SALON (optional)
MAKE ARRANGEMENTS TO HAVE YOUR TEETH CLEANED OR BLEACHED (optional)
CONFIRM HONEYMOON RESERVATIONS
ARRANGE FOR TRANSPORTATION TO THE AIRPORT
START PACKING AND PREPARING FOR THE HONEYMOON
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3 – 4 WEEKS BEFORE THE WEDDING
FINAL CONSULTATION/CONFIRMATION WITH ALL SERVICES
(Discuss arrival times, locations, special details and payments due.)
DJ/Band/Other Entertainment (don’t forget SPECIAL SONGS you want played)
Ceremony Musician(s) (don’t forget to discuss any SPECIAL DETAILS)
Photographer (don’t forget to discuss any SPECIAL PICTURES you want taken)
Videographer (notify them about any SPECIAL FOOTAGE you want on the tape)
Limousine Service (don’t forget to discuss TIMES, LOCATIONS & DIRECTIONS)
Florist (don’t forget to discuss ARRIVAL TIMES at ceremony/reception sites)
Baker (don’t forget to discuss any SPECIAL DETAILS)
Tuxedos (don’t forget to discuss FITTING & PICK-UP dates)
Bridal Gown & Dresses (don’t forget to discuss FITTING & PICK-UP dates)
Clergyman/Judge (don’t forget to discuss CEREMONY & REHEARSAL DETAILS)
Rehearsal Dinner Site (don’t forget to discuss MENU & OTHER DETAILS)
Make-Up Artist (don’t forget to discuss any SPECIAL DETAILS)
Hair Stylist (don’t forget to discuss any SPECIAL DETAILS)
Other Service(s)
ARRANGE FOR NAME AND ADDRESS CHANGES
Bank Accounts & Loans
Credit Cards
Driver’s License
Social Security
Passport
Other Important Documents
CONTACT GUESTS WHO HAVE NOT RESPONDED
MAKE SEATING PLANS FOR THE CEREMONY
FINALIZE YOUR MENU WITH CATERER AND/OR RECEPTION SITE
MAKE ARRANGEMENTS TO HAVE THE GOWN CLEANED AND PRESERVED
MAKE ACCOMMODATIONS FOR OUT-OF-TOWN GUESTS
WRAP GIFTS FOR THE BRIDAL PARTY
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DISCUSS ANY LAST MINUTE DETAILS WITH ALL SERVICES (if necessary)
DJ/Band/Other Entertainment
Ceremony Musician(s)
Reception Site
Caterer
Photographer
Videographer
Limousine Service
Florist
Baker
Tuxedos
Bridal Gown & Dresses
Clergyman/Judge
Rehearsal Site
Rehearsal Dinner Site
Make-Up Artist
Hair Stylist
Other
PREPARE CHECKS/PAYMENT FOR ALL SERVICES
DJ/Band/Other Entertainment
Ceremony Musician(s)
Ceremony Site
Reception Site
Caterer
Rehearsal Dinner Site
Photographer
Videographer
Limousine Service
Florist
Baker
Tuxedos
Bridal Gown & Dresses
Clergyman/Judge
Make-Up Artist
Hair Stylist
Other
GET EVERYTHING READY FOR REHEARSAL AND WEDDING DAY
Wedding Rings
Ring Pillow
Flower Girl Basket
Wedding Gown & Accessories
Groom’s Tuxedo
Attire for Rehearsal/Rehearsal Dinner
Bride & Groom Gifts
Gifts for the Bridal Party
Reception Place Cards
Favors for the Reception
Toasting Glasses
Cake Knife, Server Set & Cake Top
Guest Book & Pen
Payments for ALL SERVICES
Wishing Bubbles (optional)
Rice or Confetti (optional)
Wedding Bells (optional)
Candle for Reception (optional)
Candle Holder (optional)
Tapers (optional)
Taper Holders (optional)
CD(s) or Cassette(s) for the DJ or Band (if required)
PREPARE AN EXTRA BAG WITH THE FOLLOWING ITEMS:
Aspirin
Breath Mints or Gum
Safety Pin
Extra Lipstick & Make-up
Brush and Comb
Hair Spray and Gel
Mini Sewing Kit
Stain-Fighting Spray or Cleaning Solution
Extra Pairs of Pantyhose
DISCUSS ANY LAST MINUTE DETAILS WITH THE BRIDAL PARTY (if necessary)
FINALIZE GUEST COUNT WITH CATERER/RECEPTION SITE
FINISH PACKING AND PREPARING FOR THE HONEYMOON
PICK UP TICKETS & TRAVELER’S CHECKS FOR THE HONEYMOON
Wedding tips for the bride
Wedding is the most important event in one’s life but the fact remains that this wedding will be the one which will give you a maximum of stress and a whole lot of sleepless nights. Here are some wedding tips so that you can enjoy the wedding planning process as opposed to having to gloomily do everything. Click here for essential tips
Did you know?
With this wedding band I thee wed
The oldest recorded exchange of wedding rings comes from ancient Egypt, about 4800 years ago. In early Egypt, the ring symbolised a never-ending band linked with eternal love. Later the Romans believed that once a young woman had accepted a ring, she was no longer considered free. Today we accept the ring as part of the cere- mony when we marry. –
seiyaku.com; atlantisring.com; wikipedia.org
Limitless choices for the bride
Avoid wedding mistakes that will haunt you for the rest of your life
by Sowetan Journalist – Zenoyise Madikwa
Congratulations! Your wedding is in December. But wait, are you ready?
Have you decided on the dress to wear? Do you know what type of dress you want?
According to wedding planner Lungiswa Mayeza, most brides plan their wedding from when they are about 10.
She says the dress is the single element of the entire ceremony that is usually completely under the bride-to-be’s control.
Before choosing the dress, Mayeza says, the bride should ask the following questions:
Is the wedding going to be in a huge church, or a simple church wedding, or in a traditional African village?
“This will help inform the bride’s choice but by no means limits it,” Mayeza says.
She says the size of the wedding does not have to limit the bride.
“You can have a full princess-style dress with a veil in a simple church wedding. If your wedding is big in a huge hall, that doesn’t mean you need a big dress if you don’t feel comfortable in one. A smart traditional African dress might also work.”
Choosing the dress
“Brides should choose colours that will complement the bridesmaids and the groom. Though it is your day, you also want everything to be in harmony.”
What’s in?
Nengovhela says wedding dresses do not have to be pure white. She says the tradition of brides wearing white was to symbolise purity.
“These days most brides opt for off-white, ivory or shades of cream that are easier to wear. Choose your favourite colour or the one that makes your skin look gorgeous.”
She advises brides not to choose a dress that is the height of fashion now because it might look dated in wedding photos.
Dress shape
“As far as designs are concerned brides should look at their body shape,” Nengovhela says.
“Remember the pictures will be there for the rest of your life,” she says. “Know what suits you. The ball gown shape, for example, is very full and is usually teamed up with a fitted bodice.
“Fuller-figured people should avoid ball gowns at all cost. Think about what you consider to be your best and worst features, the perfect dress will disguise or draw attention from your least favourite parts and highlight all the best bits.
“Like any other type of clothing, wedding dresses are subject to fashion but you have to ensure that the dress you choose is the right one for you.”
Nengovhela says if you’re a full-figured woman the best silhouette is the A-line style.
“The A-line style lengthens the whole body without drawing attention to the waistline. The empire waist is another good choice. The empire is narrowest just below the bust, which conceals the waist and hips.”
She advises women with larger hips and buttocks to look for a wedding dress that focuses on the upper body.
“Show off your arms, back and bustline. A corset-style bodice with lacing will highlight your upper body. We want to draw attention away from the hips.
“Avoid pleats or gathered fabric around the waist. An A-line, skirted wedding dress always works best for this body type.”
For large-busted women Nengovhela says off-the-shoulder gowns look wonderful.
“They draw attention upward, emphasise the shoulders and minimise the size of the chest.
“Keep the skirt narrow,” she advises. “Wearing a full skirt will make you look large at the top and bottom.”
Sleeves or not?
“Do you like your arms? If not then you might want to consider a dress with sleeves, alternatively a sleeveless dress but cover arms with a jacket, shrug or wrap.”
Do trains still work?
Nengovhela says trains are a thing of yesteryear.
Veils and other headdresses
Once you have chosen your outfit you might want to think about the accessories that you want to wear on the day .
These are likely to include some kind of headdress so you need to decide if you want to wear a veil, tiara, jewellery or flowers.
Veils come in different types and lengths and might have one, two or more layers.
They can have a simple stitched edge or have a ribbon or other edging fabric around them.
Some are covered with scattered crystals, sequins or beads so you are likely to find something that suits the style of your outfit.
You might decide that you would like a very short single-layer veil. These are worn at the back of the head and only come down to the tops of the shoulders. They are not designed to be worn forward over the face.