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Brides Essence Magazine is a FREE digital magazine with a green foot print, We do not print out magazines and thus have them available on most smart phones and tablets. We aim to give the brides and Groom as much information as possible in preparing for their wedding.
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for your perfect wedding
may/jun 2015 WIN• 2 nights stay in the stunning Wild Horses Lodge.
Event & Logo MatsFor all occasions or Businesses
Whether you wed at church, in a forest or field, why not have that red carpet feel? For all your event matting requirements in a stunning variety of colours.
To add to your special memories, have you considered a custom made wedding mat or wall hanging. We can do full colour jet printed mats, flocked embossed insignia and names on a variety of carpeting and materials in a range of colours to suite your decor. Contact me to
discover the kaleidoscope of options we have on offer.
Contact Grant 082 702 4231 and be surprised at what we can add to your special day…
May/Jun 2015 Brides Essence Magazine 1
Publishers Details:212 Publishing
Publisher of Brides Essence Magazine.Cape Town, South Africa
PO BOX 249, Muizenburg 7950
Owners:Vashti Derrick & Taryn Gurr
Publisher:Vashti Derrick
Editor:Grant Derrick
Design & Layout: GIGIBUG
Sales & Marketing:Taryn Gurr
e-Published 2012 © Bi-monthly 212 Publishing
All rights reserved.
Brides Essence is registered by 212 Publishing ISSN 2079 - 5815
Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of all the information in the issue of Brides Essence, no responsibility can be accepted for quality of goods & services supplied by our advertisers. 212 Publishing accepts no responsibility for material submitted by any client for reproduction, in regard to all relevant laws and regulations.
Concepts, text, covers, images and title of Brides Essence is Copyright © and may not be reproduced by any process without the prior written permission of the publisher. We would like to thank all photographers, contributors, sponsors, advertisers and all parties involved for this remarkable 18th issue of Brides Essence Magazine.
Vash and Taryn“Place me like a seal over your heart, like a seal on your arm; for love is as strong as death, its jealousy unyielding as the grave. It burns like blazing fire, like a mighty flame.”– (NIV) Song of Solomon 8:6
Winter is quite a romantic time to get married, with the warm colours surrounding us from red to orange, the glow of cosy log fires... Do you see where we are going with this.
Winter offers a wide range of colours and ideas, but one tends to lean more towards summer for a wedding. Perhaps honeymoons should be taken in winther for the together romantic feeling.
The wedding season slows down but we continue to bring ideas and thoughts for your big day. We have a lovley issue 19. We have taken a few articles from past issues. There is a stunning 2 nights stay at Wild Horses Lodge. We are also working an a new website so stay tuned.
Enjoy this issue
OurMessage
2 Brides Essence.com - Issue 19
ContentsOur Message .............................................................................1Contributors ...............................................................................3Wild Horses Lodge Romance ..................................................4The Art of Airbrushing ..............................................................10A toast with a twist ..................................................................17Wedding on a shoe string ......................................................18Wedding Bouquets Inspiration ...............................................23The bridal emergancy kit .......................................................28Wedding Gift Ideas .................................................................34COMPETITIONSWIN: Romantic 2 nights stay at Wild Horses Lodge ...............9
10 23
4
for your perfect wedding
may/jun 2015 WIN• 2 nights stay in the stunning Wild Horses Lodge.
Cover Picture
AND find out more about Breast Health CliCk here..
Supplied and taken byJan Theron
www.jantheron.co.za
May/Jun 2015 Brides Essence Magazine 3
contributors
Vashti Derrick is the co-owner of Brides Essence. Vash is also the designer. She has been a designer for the last 16 years and really enjoys putting the magazine together. If you have anything you would like us to feature mail us on [email protected] We would love to hear from you. Visit www.bridesessence.com
Grant Derrick is the editor of Brides Essence magazine. He also writes articles and book reviews for Brides Essence. Having almost 30 years experience in the electronics and IT industry (yes, he was there before Bill Gates). Grant’s current day job is in sales and marketing.
About ourJu
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Vashti Derrrick Grant Derrick
Taryn-Zoë believes life and love should always be a celebration! What better way to celebrate than to assist people with the start of their life journey as a married couple. Although weddings have not been a part of her career, what started as a brides maid’s task has exploded into an unofficial portfolio of wedding co-ordination allowing Taryn to keep her finger firmly on the pulse of all things wedding. She is passionate about God and helping others around her. Taryn-Zoë is now part of the Brides Essence family. [email protected] Visit www.bridesessence.com
Have an idea you would love to see published?
Get in touch [email protected]
contributors
Taryn Zoë Gurr
4 Brides Essence.com - Issue 19
Wild Horses Lodge
Romance
City dwellers in Johannesburg, Bloemfontein and Durban have, at their doorstep, a gem of a hideaway mountain retreat. Occupying pride of place within the Sterkfontein Nature Reserve, Wild Horses Lodge is a Sandstone villa facing the breathtaking expanse of the Sterkfontein Dam and the Platberg Mountains.
This Drakensberg Lodge was built with living in mind. Kitchen, lounge, and bar areas merge, and regardless of which room you choose to inhabit you are treated to the most magical view. The
dining room opens out to an expansive terrace. A private library, wine cellar, Koi pond, rim-flow pool, rose garden and landscaped indigenous garden complete the picture. This is like home ... only better.
True luxury is as much about subtle detail as it is about furniture and décor. You’ll notice the night cap on the bedside table as you retire to your suite, and the freshly baked biscuits with the coffee. This mountain retreat has proudly earned each of its five stars.
Wild Horses Lodge should be penned on the map of any traveller who enjoys
May/Jun 2015 Brides Essence Magazine 5
to drive and explore. Whether it be the Midlands Meander, The Drakensberg Mountains or the Clarens Route, the scenery will literally render you breathless. For a romantic Drakensberg getaway, a few days away from the kids, a place to celebrate a special occasion (birthday, anniversary, or intimate gathering), or a getaway with friends, Wild Horses Lodge accommodates up to 8 people in 4 uniquely decorated suites.
Wild Horses makes for an intimate wedding venue, and can comfortably cater for up to forty guests. The Drakensberg, due to its proximity, value, and magnificent setting is a popular wedding destination. The team at Wild Horses is well versed in the art of matrimony. With access to and experience with local suppliers, brides-to-be are assured of a partner who takes their responsibility on this special day very seriously. No detail is too small - from cake to button hole.
Take a moment to imagine yourself standing with nothing but the sun in your face and the wind at your back. A place to rest and restore your spirit. You owe it to yourself every now and then.
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May/Jun 2015 Brides Essence Magazine 7
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For more information on Wild Horses Lodge, please call Leah McCullough the manager of the lodge on +27 (0)58 622 7000
You can skype: [email protected] | www.wildhorses.co.za
Address: Wild Horses LodgeSterkfontein Dam, Harrismith, South Africa 9880
May/Jun 2015 Brides Essence Magazine 9
Stand a chance to WIN 2 nights stay at Wild Horses Logdge including Breakfast and Dinner. To enter simply answer the question below and email the
answer to [email protected]. Don’t forget to include your name and contact details.
Q: What is left on your bedside ?Clue: Answer can be found on page 18
Terms & CondiTions appLy1: All entrants must currently be married or married before the prize expiry date. 2. This competition is not valid for employees or relatives at Wild Horses Lodge or Brides Essence Magazine. 3: Only entrants with the correct answer will qualify for the Prize. The draw will take place on 28th June 2015. 4: The Prize is valid until November 2015. 5: Winners will be notified via email. 7: It does not include flights or transfers to and from Wild Horses Lodge 8: The prize excludes all beverages, phone calls, room service and any other personal expenses incurred by the winner. 9: The prize cannot be transferred to another party or exchanged for cash. The Prize may not be taken in peak season, or in conjunction with any other special offers. 10: Wild Horses Lodge reserves the right to cancel a booking and reschedule. This prize cannot be taken in peak season.
Stand a chance to WIN this romantic 2 nights stay at the Wild Horses lodge tucked
away in the Drankensburg mountains.
WIN
10 Brides Essence.com - Issue 19
Old, dirty latex sponges, unhygienic powder puffs and brushes that require constant cleaning are becoming obsolete because they are being replaced by a new and modern application technique – Airbrushing!
Airbrush make-up has long been one of the celebrities’ best kept secrets! But now you can have the star treatment by having airbrush make-up done for your wedding or function. Airbrush was designed for the demanding needs of film, television and high definition. Leading make-up artists around the world use airbrush systems because of the flawless coverage. High Definition is finding its way into our personal lives through our cameras, video cameras and soon our cell phones!
advantages of airbrush make-upAirbrush make-up is ultra hygienic and fast. It has a huge advantage over sponge and brush as it guarantees a natural result with smooth and even coverage that is also long lasting and smudge-proof. Airbrush make-up will camouflage skin defects, yet remain practically invisible. The skin breathes easily because the make-up doesn’t cover the pores or over stimulate the sebum glands. Airbrushing is fast and cuts
The Art of
Airbrushing
Belinda personal make over shootsupplied by: Theresa Bouwer
May/Jun 2015 Brides Essence Magazine 11
elize Wedidng hairsupplied by: Theresa Bouwer
deresha Wedding make upsupplied by: Theresa Bouwer
Belinda - Wedding hair & make-upsupplied by: Theresa Bouwer
Bianca Wedding hair & make-upsupplied by: Theresa Bouwer
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elize Wedidng hairsupplied by: Theresa Bouwer
Jenna - Wedding hair and make-upsupplied by: Theresa Bouwer
Jonie- Wedding make-upsupplied by: Theresa Bouwer
styled shootsupplied by: Theresa Bouwer
Houlson Twins - Hair and make-up Ghoema awards 2013supplied by: Theresa Bouwer
the traditional application time in half.
studio57 backgroundAs a professional make-up artist and qualified hair stylist, Theresa Bouwer started Studio57 and is a full-time freelance artist based in Weltevredenpark, Gauteng. She specializes in Beauty, Fashion and Ramp and has extensive bridal make-up and hair styling experience. Theresa has been in the hair industry for 13 years and has been doing make-up for 6 years.
Studio57 Airbrush Make-up, Hair & Accessories
www.studio57.co.zaTel: 011 679 1906Cel: 082 821 4796Fax: 086 238 0214
Kabuki inspired styled shootsupplied by: Theresa Bouwer
Chere - wedding hair and accessoriessupplied by: Theresa Bouwer
May/Jun 2015 Brides Essence Magazine 13
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for your perfect wedding
be inspired
Click here
May/Jun 2015 Brides Essence Magazine 15
DermaPolish
Skin Type: All skin types
This unique blend of organic enzyme rich powders micro-exfoliates and cleanses the skin, leaving it noticeably smoother. DermaPolish is packed in dry form to maintain its effectiveness and freshness. Water activates the enzymes. Hydroxy Acids smoothes, softens and brightens the skin. Dead skin cells are lightly exfoliated and cell renewal is accelerated.
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Benefi ts:• Enzyme rich powders• Micro-exfoliates • Brightens the skin
Availability: 50g & 100g
Retail: R245 & R415 VAT incl
Contact number: 0861 28 23 23 | Website: www.dermafix.co.za
We all enjoy a glass of bubbly or two at a wedding, and now Belvedere Vodka has created an innovative update on the expected champers, the Earl Grey Fizz.
Made with Belvedere Vodka, Earl Grey Syrup, a dash of grapefruit bitters and Moet & Chandon - this is a wedding toast you won’t forget!
Created in Poland, the birthplace of vodka, Belvedere represents the pinnacle of the Polish vodka-making tradition. Distilled exclusively from the finest 100% Dankowskie Gold Rye and quadruple distilled to create the perfect balance of character and purity, Belvedere Vodka is the true expression of luxury vodka – what better to pair with your bubbly than the best vodka on offer?
A toast with a twist
May/Jun 2015 Brides Essence Magazine 17
18 Brides Essence.com - Issue 19 18 Brides Essence - Issue 9
Wedding on a shoe
stringbudget
Wth only 4 months to go and R12000 budget we were to get married. At the start it seemed enough to have a wedding in court, with 10 guests, followed by a slap up binge at a local take away. Our budget had to cover the following : A venueTable and chair hireCateringWedding DressSuitPhotographerFlowersWedding cakeDecorations and table settingsFood
BeveragesChampagne (oops - sparkling fermented grape juice drink not made in France)Honeymoon suiteGifts for the guestsDJA flower girl’s outfitRingsKids Entertainment
We had a fantastic wedding within our budget and catered for 90 people. You may wonder how such a little amount of cash could even cover just one of the items in our list, well here is how we did it.
We scanned the local news ads for specials. By now you realise that we were going the “self-catering” route. Don’t be afraid, read on. When there was a great saving to be made on bottled water, soft drinks, wine and “not the fizzy French stuff in bottles made from fermented grapes whose name we cannot mention because it was not made there”, we stockpiled. We bought enough wine to have 1 red, 1 white and 1 sparkling wine per table, with enough soft drinks to last the entire feast. There was a fantastic special on whole lamb so we bought 1 and the butcher managed to cut the whole lamb into chops, bar 1 or 2 little pieces. We bought boerewors (strange long sausage that really rocks) on special and froze it. Some pork chops were on special and we stockpiled a few kgs. We arranged with our local supermarket that
made roasted chickens to make 10 for us for the day at a special price. The same supermarket also made special rolls for us at a great price.
When you negotiate with people and tell them something is for your wedding then generally they will try and assist you.
We had a cash bar with free mixers for those who wanted hard tack (strong liquor, or drinkypoo).
My fiancé’s aunt stayed on a little small holding out in the countryside and a few weeks prior to the wedding we went and laid some grass and other plants and flowers to neaten up the area where we would hold the ceremony. Everyone stood – no chairs, but the ceremony was concise and lasted 20 minutes. No hymns, no lengthy sermons, just a good short message on the meaning of the covenant of marriage and the vows.
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Two days before the wedding we had tables and chairs arrive that we had hired at a bargain, along with crockery, cutlery, glassware and linen. In a large clearing in the garden we arranged the tables and chairs. Everyone chipped in to help where they could.
We had friends and family volunteer to help us the day before our wedding to make entrees, salads, desserts and other culinary preparations. All were so blessed to be a part of our day and in contributing their love gifts. Right, that was the catering sorted.
The cake, a most delicious and gorgeous cake, was a gift from one of our guests. She was going to make one but at the last minute could not, so she commissioned one of her confectionary friends to make one for us.
For the flowers a good friend or ours made beautiful arrangements as her gift to us for the tables.
Another of our acquaintances was in the business of entertaining kids, and for a nominal fee was only too happy to get some exposure. She had all sorts of activities for the kids to do – the little angels were under a large tree and running through the garden having fun all afternoon filled to the brim with all manner of sugary delights.
My fiancé managed to order a dress online well ahead of the wedding just in case it was a disaster, but it was gorgeous and great value for money (Under R1500). I had a new double breasted suite that I had only worn once before, so I had it dry cleaned and bought a new tie and sash to match the wedding colours.
The rings – my mom gave me my grandma’s old engagement ring. She had fingers like sausages and was almost a bangle on my fiancé. I had it resized and polished up like new. For myself, I still wear my
May/Jun 2015 Brides Essence Magazine 21
inexpensive stainless steel ring today. It could be white gold or titanium but it is a sign of a covenant and certainly not the main ingredient.
Another of our close friends, my best man’s wife, made a gorgeous dress for two of our bridesmaids at no cost, her love gift to us.
My dad, being retired, was accustomed to taking photographs of everything that moved, or didn’t move, yep, I suppose that means everything. He offered to do the same at our wedding, which he did. I also asked my best man to take pics with my camera, which he did. Double the pics and throw out the ones you don’t like or want.
For music, we ripped our cd’s onto an old laptop and I borrowed an USB FM transmitter from work that simply plugged into any USB port and then transmitted the music. We had 2 mini HIFI’s that we tuned to the channel and thus had hours of our favourite music playing without anyone having to intervene. There was no dancing, no “hours of boring speeches”, no hullabaloo and such…I was the only one to give a 5 minute speech with our thank you’s to all who helped make our special day blessed.
For wedding favours, being handy, I made some myself. I have a friend who has a sheet metal workshop. He supplied me with stainless steel off-cuts, all cut to the correct size. I sanded the edges and rounded the corners of the little plates. I sent them for laser engraving with our initials and made them into napkin rings. Each guest received a white linen napkin (which we also had made) and stainless steel custom made napkin ring. The larger families scored entire sets. Every time they use them they will remember our special day.
Finally, I had managed to find a little guest house near to the wedding venue that offered us a great deal for our overnight stay. They went out of their way to help make our stay special.
So with a little innovation, some good friends and some close family members it is possible to turn a pumpkin and a couple of rats into a horse-drawn carriage fit for royalty.
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Function co-ordination, Floral design,
Décor and Draping
Wedding Bouquets
InspirationCompiled by Lols – Lols Flowers
www.lolsfunction.co.za
rides have been carrying bouquets since the middle ages. Of course back then the gathered bunches of herbs and spices were intended to ward off evil spirits and protect the fragile, innocent bride from bad luck and misfortune.
Happily by Victorian times bouquets had moved on from garlic and dill to include fresh flowers – often made up using the “language of flowers”. Bouquets were
gathered from ivy (fidelity), myrtle (passion) and roses (love).
Bouquets remain a special tradition today, with plenty of styles and variations for brides to choose from. You can have anything from cascading waterfall bouquets to sweet, simple hand tied posies. It all depends on the style and theme you envision for your wedding – and ultimately your own sense of style and personality.
© Jeanine Bressler photography
B
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When designing your bouquet, keep the following in mind:The tone and theme of your wedding A formal wedding in a large church or cathedral might require the drama of a cascading bouquet, while a loose (hand-tied) bouquet would be more appropriate for a casual, perhaps outdoor event.
Colours and texturesChat to your florist about the colours you love – and how to use different tones and hues in your bouquet to maximum effect. Some of the more popular flowers by colour choice include:White: rose, lisianthus, gerbera,carnation, lily, chinks, stocks,tulip, snap dragon, orchid. pink: rose, lisianthus, carnation, tulip(seasonal), protea, hydrangea (seasonal) and lily.Lavender: rose, carnation, lavender,lisianthus, snap dragon, stocks, hydrangea (seasonal).yellow: rose, gerbera, tulip, sunflower,carnation, lily and freesia.red: gerbera, rose, carnation &lily.
seasonal flowersBe open to using seasonal flowers in your bouquet (and throughout) as they are plentiful and therefore much, much cheaper. Also bear in mind flowers such as snap dragons, proteas, tulips, irises and delphiniums have a limited growing season. It is best to find out what is in season before you set your heart on a particular flower for your bouquets. Out of season and imported flowers are very expensive and beyond the reach of a great many brides.
Holidays and special eventsFlowers like roses, gerberas and lilies are available all year round - but often more expensive in winter or on special
© Gavin Withers photography
© Veronique photography
May/Jun 2015 Brides Essence Magazine 25 © Bernard Bravenboer photography
© mike rose photography
© orcus photography
© nastassja Harvey photography
© Valerie schooling photography © Jeanine Bressler photography
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© Veronique photography
picture 12
© eXp photography © LV star photography
© The picturess
© Celest deetlefs photography © LV star photography
May/Jun 2015 Brides Essence Magazine 27
days like Valentine’s Day and Mothers’ Day. If possible, try to avoid these dates for your wedding because your flowers could literally double in cost over this time.
your wedding dressUltimately everything starts and ends with the dress. If possible give your florist a photograph or sketch of your dress so she can guide you on the best choice of bouquet.
Large trailing bouquets are dramatic and romantic but tend to work better with princess-style ball gowns as they over-power anything simple or understated.
A more modern bride might consider exotic flowers or an interesting use of foliage such as succulents in her bouquet or perhaps a wrist bouquet, pomander or dramatic head piece while a stylish bride may want to add crystal or pearl embellishments for a glamorous finish.
Your bouquet will be the most special and intimate arrangement of the day, so brief your florist well (don’t be scared to take pictures, mementoes, fabric swatches and sketches along to your
meeting) to ensure that you end up with a bouquet you love.
© pC Benade photography
© Bijou Belle photography
© sarah Wood photography
/...Continued from page 50
28 Brides Essence.com - Issue 19
The Bridalemergency kit
by Grant Derrick
THe dress :Too BiG or Too smaLLThe best way to overcome this is to try the dress on about a week before the day. You are not going to swell or shrink considerably in a week and you will have enough time fix the dress. However if it is on your day, there are some pointer to help :
If your dress is too small and the zip (zipper for Americanese people) wants to “go home” then a simple safety pin can be used inside the dress to hold the zip in place as long as is needed. Some needle and thread can also provide a quick make-
shift solution. Another thing that will help is to avoid carbonated drinks and processed grain products as these can bloat you and thus aggravate the problem – drink still water instead. Have a high protein breakfast or meal before the wedding and don’t gorge yourself on pancakes. For a sticky zip you can use some candle wax along the offending part of the zip. Even some lip balm can grease that sucker up.
Too large a dress can also be disastrous but a quick solution is to create a dart or pleat just under the armpit of the dress where it is least noticeable. Again a safety pin or
May/Jun 2015 Brides Essence Magazine 29
quick stitch in time saves nine – whatever that may mean but I’m sure it will certainly save one gorgeous bride.
THe ZiTIn Africa we have a word reserved for such catastrophes – “Eish” pronounced “aysh”. A good word to use repeatedly if you find an unsightly pimple on your wedding day although it may not make the nasty blemish go away it is a good start. Once you have repeated said expletive at least 3 times you can go about finding a solution. One thing to try is a block of ice on the spot to reduce swelling. don’T piCK!!! I won’t go into the details of zitting but be gentle. Use some oxy cream to dry it out and avoid oily base as this will simply aggravate it – remember what happened to Krakatoa when the pressure inside was too much? ( If you are not 140 years old then you may not remember the tabloids so google™ it ). Use a powder based blush to tone it down.
sTains, smudGes and spiLLsDon’t fret. Somewhere, someone has some sparkling water or club soda. This is great for removing unsightly marks. Very imporTanT – always dab starting at the outer edge of
the stain and work toward the centre; not outwards lest you make a mountain out of a molehill. For oil based marks such as mascara or oil you can use baby powder to soak up the worst of it and dust off. you can also do some dabbing with a tissue. A hair dryer is the quickest way to dry your dress – seconds and certainly only a few minutes, unless your spill is from falling into a lake, in which case….paniC!!!! Some white chalk or powder can also temporarily hide stubborn stains if you’re in a fix. A pencil eraser can be quite a handy tool for removing scuffs and marks from your dress. Worst case scenario you can find an old lady and borrow her brooch to hide the spot.
RINgsFunny how this is a fear rattling around in every bride’s mind. You know how men can be and can you really rely on your husband to be’s party animal buddy who can barely remember which way his trousers go on because he had a few too many brews the night before? No problem, there are any number of guests / family who would gladly loan you’re their rings in an emergency. Alternatively simply use your backup set in your emergency kit.
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BouQueTProblem? Missing? grab a handful of the nearest flowers from an arrangement, from the garden – look around and find something “Weddingish” and grab that. No one is going to notice that you have improvised, just up your strut and lift your chin and don’t sweat it.
GLoWinG (perspiration to men and sweating to animals )This can be a serious issue. If it rears its head then your response will be to worry about it, raising your stress levels which will cause you to glow more which leads to more stress and then becomes perspiration and with even more stress your system will resort to its Cro-Magnon animal type sweating. OK so lets nip this in the bud. Make sure that you use a good anti-perspirant roll-on or stick. This creates a good barrier and keeps you dry. What about your make-up. Dab ladies, dab. Get some tissue and gently pat your
affected areas. You can touch up your make-up with your emergency kit. In all of the above situations take a few minutes and calm yourself down. Have something cool to drink and take a few deep breaths. Get a lacy fan to match your dress and keep it in your emergency kit – everyone will think that it is part of your ensemble. Crying can ruin your mascara or make it clump. Don’t add more mascara as this increases the clumping. Take a toothpick and from the bases of the eyelashes gently separate them.
GuesT proBLems / FamiLy FeudsPersonally I think that people who cause trouble at weddings are simply selfish. Your wedding day is your day and not anyone else’s. A harsh rebuke will quell some fires but it should not be unacceptable for you or your groomsmen to ask a misbehaving guest to leave. You would rather remember one guest missing or leaving than having many guests embarrassed or upset because
May/Jun 2015 Brides Essence Magazine 31
of one selfish person. My opinion – if they are not going to suck it up to bless you on your wedding day, then perhaps they should not have been invited. A tip here to note prior to the wedding is to seat feuding parties on opposing sides of your wedding and reception and buffer them with friends and neutral parties in between.
CaKe TrouBLeA damaged cake can take the joy out of your day, but only if you let it. You can always turn the cake to hide the spoil and re-arrange the decorations, if they are moveable. You could cover the damaged area with your bouquet positioned strategically.Head-aCHe, nausea & GeneraL maLadiesThese are some of the greatest joy killers at any wedding. The stress that encumbers any wedding can wreak havoc with your body and may manifest unexpectedly in numerous unpredictable ways. The best remedy is NOT TO PANIC!!! ( unless you accidentally fell into a lake ). Just take a few minutes alone in a bathroom or deserted spot ( garden, room, hall, nursing room etc. ). You could ask the driver to turn on the aircon in the car and blast yourself for a few minutes to cool down. You are probably late already so a few more minutes won’t cause a train smash. Take some deep breaths and calm yourself. For general aches or headaches, take a quick acting aspirin or paracetamol based painkiller with about a
glass of water ( unless you have a condition which prevents you from using over the counter painkillers ). Nausea can be quelled by a little water or if you like take an antacid – with nervousness and stress, stomach juices tend to be released and most brides don’t have time to eat before the ceremony and this exacerbates the problem. Chew on a cracker or a few bites of an apple and relax your mind. Mental preparedness is most key before you get caught in the pitfalls of worry and stress, so instead of psyching yourself up, practise psyching yourself down so that when the day comes you know how to find that “happy place”.
suCKy sound sysTemsSome blessed few can have the philharmonic string quartet bowing the classics at their reception. Most hire a DJ or live band. Remember that if the sound blows then you can do something about it. The DJ may be accustomed to teens bopping to mind blowingly loud music but it is hardly suitable at a wedding and contrary to DJ folklore, there is a volume control and even though it is fun to watch old aunt Flo who is seated near the loud speaker having her hair flapping in beat to the music. Some bands are great but those who suck can be asked to lipsync. Again, the wedding is yours and you decide what goes and what goes away.
32 Brides Essence.com - Issue 19
Wedding day emergency kit check list ❑ Needle and white thread❑ Numerous safety pins❑ Hair pins❑ Superglue for emergency nail repair and many other uses too❑ Spray deodorant and anti-perspirant roll-on or stick❑ Bottle soda water ( club soda )❑ Emergency zit treatment❑ White chalk or baby powder❑ Fast acting aspirin or painkiller of your choice❑ Apple or some crackers❑ Chewable antacid❑ �Roll of masking tape ( helps with emergency dress repairs and bouquet
making ) – can also be used to silence snoring guests and raucous children ( only joking about the last 2 uses……or am I?)
❑ 1 set of spare rings ( get some cheap rings as a back-up set )❑ Tissues❑ Lipstick, base, mascara and other beautification paraphernalia.❑ Toothpick ❑ Breathmints, Tic-Tacs™ or gum❑ Scissors for trimming, snipping, severing, neutering – as you may need.❑ Fold up fan ❑ Ipod and USB cable with your favourite music loaded (just in case)
May/Jun 2015 Brides Essence Magazine 33
Travelling hairstylist for special occasions.
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Stories. That’s what I love!I believe that documenting one’s legacy is an honor and privilege. I will tell the story of your wedding day
to your children with these photographs. Documenting social interaction between those close to you and
helping to create a family history will be my privilege.
As one of Cape Town’s leading wedding photographers, Jan Theron’s unique style compliments his clients’ personalities. Weddings should be relaxed and stress-free. Jan’s work is precise and is balanced by a well-developed sense of fun. He is dedicated to capturing the actual moments, ambience, happiness, essence and sense of hope and fun for tomorrow’s memories and generations to come. Jan received his degree in Arts and Photography from Stellenbosch University and has crafted a reputation for reliability, creativity and flexibility as one of the top award winning photographers in the industry. Jan has covered over 1000 weddings in South Africa, United Kingdom and Greece.
Tel: 021 976 4695 l Cell: 083 230 [email protected] l www.jantheron.co.za
PROMENADE ENSEMBLEMUSIC FOR ALL SPECIAL OCCASIONS
Based in Johannesburg & established in 1984 this group of fulltime professional musicians has developed an extensive repertoire of Classics, Evergreen, Pop & Rock, South American, Viennese, French Café & many more. Our arrangements are of the highest quality. Mainly a string quartet, Promenade can perform as well as a solo violin, duo or trio. Highly acclaimed & recommended by the hundreds of clients we have performed for.
Special requests are taken into consideration whenever possible. Special packages with professional photography. A sound system is provided for larger functions.
Call Maria on +2782 [email protected]
www.promenade-ensemble.co.za
34 Brides Essence.com - Issue 19
So you have been invited to the wedding. What do you buy for the couple that will remind them of you and also be a blessing for many years to come? Many couples choose a gift-registry service with a chain store or the like but what if you would like to give them something different or if there is no wedding registry?
It can be difficult to select the perfect item for so many reasons. Selecting a gift from a predetermined list can also be sucky as it lacks that personal touch and requires very little thought and imagination. I suppose it mainly hinges on your budget too. Do bear in mind that “cheap” gifts are a big NO and will be a thorn rather than a blessing.
Here are some ideas that will never fail :
Crockery, Cutlery and Glassware : The kitchen is one of the most frequented rooms in most homes. A unique but functional item of crockery such as a designer salt and pepper cellar, salad bowl or platter or even a set will be something that a couple will cherish for a long time. They will remember you fondly whenever they use it. Think heirloom (something they can pass on to their children) and you will not go wrong. Things such as cake lifters, salad spoons, a cheese board set or a classy cutlery set are definitely in this category. Lead crystal glassware makes for a stylish gift. Another wonderful idea
Wedding Gift ideas
by Grant Derrick
May/Jun 2015 Brides Essence Magazine 35
of this ilk is a picnic basket set, but make sure that it can cater for more than 2 and it will be a blessing even when the kids come along.
Books :A wonderful gift that will be used and cherished is something for the coffee table or a classic cookbook. Do some research with friends and relatives of the couple and find out what their interests are and then find a good book that they could enjoy. You must remember to write some words of wisdom and encouragement in the cover to remind the couple why you have given them this specific gift. Some words of encouragement
every time the book is opened can have a lifelong effect.
Linen :Nothing says “Have a wonderful life” like a cashmere blanket or some Egyptian cotton sheets. You could even have the couple’s initials embroidered on the item to make it even more personal. How about personalised bath towels or bathrobes? A good quality set of monogrammed napkins are handy too. Do try and stick to neutral colours lest your gift find itself buried at the bottom of some mouldy mothy drawer because it is too hideous for people to look at. Good linen can last
years and there is never enough good linen in any given house (of regular
people that is).
art : A Good painting will last a lifetime. This can be a tricky gift if you don’t know the couple well as you may like a work and they may find it repulsive or vice versa. Good art always appreciates in value, and even anonymous works that are done well have a place in most homes. Again you can do some research and find out what the couple’s tastes are. Art does not have to be new either as most art that is valuable is second hand. If you have the ways or
36 Brides Essence.com - Issue 19
the means, a portrait of the bridal couple will be an invaluable and most unique gift. If unsure, best avoid this one and find some less risky gift like a silver picture frame or a set of antique frames.
Luggage : Cheap luggage won’t do so don’t buy something at the local flea market for this category. If you have the budget, then this is a gift that will keep on giving for years to some and will be appreciated and cherished. Bear in mind though that by the time the wedding arrives, the couple may already have purchased new luggage for the honeymoon trip so it is advisable to make inquiries prior to splurging on those Samsonite, Delsey, Cellini, or Polo items.
Wine : A case of wine from the year of the wedding is a great way for couples to remember their day. Request that the couple opens 1 bottle a year on their anniversary. Most will crack open a bottle and remember the good times, sadly a few couples will each crack open a few bottles to try to forget some disasters of their day – either way your gift will be appreciated and cherished (do your homework on this as some wines may turn to vinegar in the 12 years it will take to finish the case). Another option in this category would be a subscription to a wine club for a year where the couple receives wine bi-monthly or quarterly – a gift that keeps on giving.
May/Jun 2015 Brides Essence Magazine 37
appliances :This can be a minefield of bad choices, but if you know what you are doing and have the budget for it then nothing says “Happy Wedding” like a great good quality kitchen appliance. You should avoid this category if you have a limited budget as cheap appliances break quickly or don’t work well and end up being tossed or never used. Every kitchen needs a sturdy all round mixer / liquidiser / food processor. Even if the couple has an existing appliance of this sort, they will stow it away for a time when their existing machine conks in. A good quality coffee machine is also a great idea but try not get one of those that only uses propriety capsules as this may cause the appliance to fall into disuse. No kitchen should be without a sturdy kitchen scale either. Avoid the nonsensical gimmickry that telemarketers try to pawn off as “what every household needs”.
Cash:I have never in my life met anyone who could not use more cash. Although this category is often frowned upon as lacking thought, I have never had the slightest hint of a person’s lack of though when I have received cash as a gift, how about you? After the wedding, most couples will be a little tight when it comes to dosh. Even a gift voucher from an upmarket grocery store or home ware store can be a blessing to any couple.
Some things to remember, if I have not already hammered the nail home are :•Don’t go cheap or cut corners• Don’t go with your personal likes or dislikes
unless you are an expert•Don’t make assumptions• Do make inquiries and ask friends and
family members• Do your homework and research – Google
is free • Do try and visit the couples intended home
where possible to get ideas• Make sure the couple knows that the gift is
from you if it is important to you• Do get warranties with any item that may
require it and include such with the gift.
