Issue 06
01 September 2012 - 01 December 2012
Are you the Bride
of Essence 2013? Enter now to WIN the Honeymoon of a Lifetime in SA & Malawi and be our Cover Bride!
Discover beautiful Wedding Venues and Honeymoon Venues
+
NEW
Honeymoon Fashion Lingerie, swimwear, eyewear...
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And much more...
Photography
Brides Essence
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Photography
Picture Perfect...
Any model, photographer and makeup artist will tell you: “you have to speak to the camera”. “Yes, but what does that mean?” It means: Connect! Find the lens and connect. Not just with your eyes and a struggled, static smile…the camera becomes your friend the moment you start exposing whatever you have inside. What you feel is somehow captured and interpreted by the lens. To really “speak” to the camera, you have to trust (yourself) and bring your happiness forward…let everything else slide, and allow the lens to translate your emotion into an image.
You have to send your energy to the camera. Look at some of the best pictures of yourself…what were you feeling? Confidence is the key, and the key to confidence from my side of the river is, of course, looking your best. This doesn’t start with the perfect foundation; it starts with a sense of worthiness that we often overlook, or push aside. Remember you are worth being loved, worth being taking care of, you are worth being fed well, and you are worth all the wonderful feelings that you’re often afraid won’t stay very long. So take as much time as you need every day to find your worthiness and follow your bliss.
Let’s talk make-up!
I shy away from dark and Diva-like make up for a wedding day; generally it’s really about good skin. A “natural” look isn’t about no or little make-up, but more about showing off beautiful skin, and accentuating features to put the spotlight on your natural beauty.
Foundation: is only really necessary if you need to even out tones. It can also serve as a good base carrier for any powder that you will apply. A good foundation blends well and does not ‘sit’ on your skin. Take time, via trial and error to find the one that suits you. Colour make-up: eyes, cheeks and nails now have healthier options. The secret to creating that barely there, but oh so beautiful “natural” look is choosing the right shades and tones. Look carefully at your face, taking note of the colours that you see. Now look at your make-up stash to find colours, shades and tones that would blend well into your skin. If it looks awkward on your skin, it’s out. It really is that simple. And if you don’t trust you own eye, then ask your bridesmaids for a bit of critiquing. Lips: Find a lip pencil that is close to your natural lip colour. If you’re going for a slightly stronger lip, then go a shade darker than your pencil. Shade - not tone - shades go lighter or darker. Tones come into play when we’re talking blush or eye shadow: now we’re talking warmer tones, or cooler tones.
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Eyebrows can be filled in lightly with a matte eye-shadow closest to your hair colour. And fake lashes are always an option, but I suggest that you practice wearing these beforehand to see if they’re what you want. “I am partial to a vanilla coated eyelid with a hint of camel in the crease and the option to play with either warm chocolate or cool olive tones in the outer corners to form a sideways V or my old favourite, the photographer C. Rose-coloured eye-shadow shades can be warm or cool, and on the eye I probably favour cool. On the cheek, I prefer warm.” Play with what you have, and when you know what you want, then go out and Shop! Remember your skin absorbs whatever you choose to put on it, so choose wisely. I am in the process of restructuring my kit to include more and more “healthy” make-up. If it reads like a chemical experiment, then it’s probably not too good for you. Think herb. Practice your look as often as possible, and perfect it as you go. If you want to change something, go ahead. Like everything in life, don’t feel stuck with it…because you’re not. Do what feels comfortable, and what suits you; and nobody knows what that is, better than you do. Beautiful Blessings... The Makeup Mistress • natasha@makeupmistress.com
Editors Voice
Publishers Details: Cherry Berry Blue Publishing SA cc, Johannesburg, South Africa
September is all about spring and getting ready for the summer season that lies ahead. It is also the perfect time to begin planning your beautiful summer wedding. This issue is all about accessories lingerie, Havaianas, swimwear, the latest in sexy sunglasses and looking fabulous on your wedding day and on your honeymoon. As well as bringing you some of the very best wedding and honeymoon venues Southern Africa has to offer, so the decision as to where to have your wedding will be easy!
Love...Justine INSPIRATION: “You’re becoming a woman of worth every day by shining your radiant light, rejoicing each season for the remarkable reason that you’re totally loved in God’s sight.” “Your eye is a lamp for your body. A pure eye lets sunshine into your soul” Matthew 6:22 NLT
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Picture Perfect!
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Honeymoon Venues
Bridal Fashion
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Honeymoon fashion
Community Project - Cinderella’s Wardrobe
28 Wedding & Honeymoon Planning
11 Wedding Venues Issue 06
17 Brides Of Essence 2013 Competition 18
Top 5 Online Tools to make Tying The Knot even easier
Editorial Design Concept, Production & Layout: Eye-4-Design Eva Govender • eyefordzine@gmail.com 011 056 5500 • 082 610 1653 Website design: www.bridesessence.com One2love, Plettenberg Bay Sales & Marketing: SMH Marketing • Suzanne Fernandes travelmagsa@smhmarket.co.za 082 659 0357 Professional Accountant: Pat Buchan Photographer: Luke Engelbrecht e-Published 2012 © Quarterly by Cherry Berry Blue Publishing SA cc, All rights reserved. Brides Essence is registered by Cherry Berry Blue Publishing SA cc / ISSN 2079 - 5815
Contents
16 Yankee Candle Giveaway
Editor: Justine Engelbrecht justine@cherryberrybluepublishing.com / justine@bridesessence.com • 0744408668
Are you the Bride
of Essence 2013?
01 September 2012 - 01 December 2012
Enter now to WIN the Honeymoon of a Lifetime in SA & Malawi and be our Cover Bride!
Discover beautiful Wedding Venues and Honeymoon Venues
+
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information in this 6th edition of Brides Essence, no responsibility can be accepted for quality of goods and services supplied by advertisers. The publisher accepts no responsibility for material submitted by any client for reproduction, in regard to all relevant laws and regulations. Concept, text, covers and title of Brides Essence is Copyright © and may not be reproduced by any process without the prior written permission of the publisher. The Publisher would like to thank all photographers, contributors, sponsors, advertisers and all parties involved for this remarkable sixth issue of Brides Essence Magazine.
NEW
Honeymoon Fashion Lingerie, swimwear, eyewear...
And much more...
Photograph supplied courtesy Bartholomeus Klip
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Bridal Fashion Lingerie 2012‌
After Eden is an internationally established lingerie brand which hosts a variety of tasteful collections suited to every woman’s style. The fashion range features trendsetting lingerie in seasonal colourways that appeal to flirtatious, fun-loving, fashion-conscious women. Perfect for your wedding day and for your Honeymoon! Local Stockists: Edgars, Stuttafords, Foschini (select stores), Tempations (Jhb) For general information and independant stores,visit After Eden www.after-eden.co.za Follow us on Twitter @AfterEdenSA or join us on Facebook: After Eden Lingerie SA
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Bridal Fashion Lingerie 2012… The Elle Macpherson Intimates range combines timeless elegance, fashion-forward styling and superb fit. It captures the creativity and spirit of its creator with unique designs and quality fabrics as durable as they are beautiful -which is exactly how you want to look and feel on your wedding day and while on honeymoon. Elle Macpherson explains, “My latest collection is a compilation of sketches, paintings and experiences transformed into lingerie through the use of print, embroidery, lace and styling.” Elle’s inquisitive nature and excitement for designing beautiful, functional on-trend lingerie hasn’t wavered.
Local Stockists: Elle Macpherson Intimates is available at Edgars Sandton (JHB), Temptations Sandton (JHB) Stuttafords, Foschini Select Stores & various independent stores. For general information on Elle Macpherson Intimates visit www.ellemacphersonintimates.com.
Havaianas Launches its 2012/ 2013 Summer Collection Made in Brazil and produced from a secret rubber recipe, Havaianas are known for their extreme marshmallow comfort, durability and spot on fashion styling. Loved by many, including, rock stars and celebrities, Havaianas have earned the deserved reputation of “best rubber sandal in the world”.
Choose either the Havaianas Crystal or Havaianas Freedom Elegance for your summer wedding, on-or-off the beach, for your honeymoon or even for wedding gifts. Brides Essence
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Community Project
Cinderella’s Wardrobe This year the Cinderella’s Wardrobe is going national and this is what it’s all about!
The premise: The Matric Dance is supposed to be one of the most special nights of a girl’s life. A night where they celebrate their momentous journey through high school, at a dream event, dressed in the most lavish gown they have ever worn. Many experience it in this way, however, a large number of people do not have the means to make their dreams a reality. It is these people who we wish to help. The concept: Bride&co and Eurosuit are two Johannesburg-based suit-and-dress-hire companies who are willing to lend their resources to this cause. They will be making a wide range of stock available to the cause to kick-start a campaign to get as many people around the country as possible to donate dresses for this cause. How this will work: We are calling all members of the public to donate a dress that a young girl could wear to her matric dance. When delivered to Bride&co, all high school students who are unable to afford a dress or suit for their dance will be able to apply by submitting a verification letter from their school teacher as well as a short motivation from the learner herself, to Bride&co. As a bride you have a unique opportunity to give - after you have worn your dress on your special day, make someone else’s Matric Dance one to remember by donating your dress (or one from your retinue) to this cause.
2012 Trends
- Soft flowing dresses • Fit & Flair gowns are very much on trend this season on bridal and special occasions. • Intricate neckline are very fashionable and high on trend.
• One shoulder necklines • Sequins
Event Photographs supplied by Styling Concepts
The application forms are available as follows: Online: http://www.brideandco.co.za/ - Look for the Cinderella’s Wardrobe button and download a form • Telephone: 084 8000 400 - Julian Grabman at Bride&co. In-store: Find forms at Bride&co. in Sandton and Canal Walk. Simply bring your form to Bride&co. / Eurosuit in Sandton or Canal Walk in Cape Town and we will take it from there.
0861 244 329 • www.brideandco.co.za • www.eurosuit.co.za 8
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Wedding Venues
EMAIL: info@idube.com
•
info@lukimbi.com
WEBSITE: Lukimbi Safari Lodge: www.lukimbi.com • Idube Game Reserve: www.idube.com Tel: +27 11 431-1120 • Fax: +27 11 431-3597 P.O.Box 2167, Northcliff, 2115, South Africa
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Wedding Venues
Weddings at
Lukimbi
Safari Lodge
Our charming Baroque-styled chapel may be booked by couples looking for an extra special wedding venue. Alternatively, couples might choose to be married under a Jackal berry tree, serenaded by an African choir. The bridal party is driven to the wedding site by Land rover - certainly an unusual way to make an appearance. At Lukimbi, we are also able to arrange the formal side of proceedings, assisting with the legal documentation on the day. And when it comes to the theme, flowers, wedding cake, gourmet cuisine and the DJ - everything is in the hands of professionals. Lukimbi Safari Lodge accommodates 32 people. The lodge must be reserved for a minimum of 2 days for weddings for over 6 people. Tel: +27 11 431 1120
•
Fax: +27 11 431 3597
•
Email: res@lukimbi.com
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Issue 66 Issue
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Wedding Venues
The fabulous Fancourt Wedding Experience
With its romantic setting within 613 hectares of lush countryside in the heart of the Garden Route, Fancourt provides the ultimate backdrop for a memorable wedding and honeymoon celebration. Catering for events that range from small intimate affairs to glamorous society weddings, this premier lifestyle and leisure resort boasts spectacular gardens and a variety of venues to suit every occasion. The Gazebo is a magical outdoor venue for the wedding ceremony, with a wooden altar accommodating up to 40 guests. Seating in the garden may be added for up to 250 guests, complete with a marquee and dance floor for outdoor receptions. The Links Lodge and Morning Glory restaurant are both ideal choices for smaller weddings, with perfect settings overlooking Fancourt’s famous golf courses. For a more glamorous reception, the Ballroom also caters for up to 250 guests - ideal for a luncheon, or dinner dance, offering a wooden dance floor and various catering and bar options. At Fancourt each wedding is approached as an individual creation, designed to fulfil every expectation of the bride and groom. The five-star, one stop service provided by the dedicated team at Fancourt extends to sourcing and assisting with services such as wedding planners, photographers, additional décor and flowers, as well as music and technical equipment, to name but a few. This leaves the bridal couple free to enjoy their special day, secure in the knowledge that theirs will be a hassle-free wedding celebration. Overnight guests have an extensive choice of resort facilities to explore, including four restaurants, various swimming pools and tennis courts, as well as a mini-cinema. Superb golf facilities include three award-winning Gary Player-designed golf courses with a Club House, Golf Academy, TaylorMade Performance Lab and two Pro Shops. Making the most of the mild climate and exquisite natural beauty of the area, outdoor mountain biking, horse riding, picnics, walks and hikes can also be arranged, with easy access to glorious beaches and the warm Indian Ocean. The Fancourt Celebrate New Beginnings Package offers bridal couples the ultimate romantic wedding at R420 per person, for a minimum of 25 guests, encompassing the wedding ceremony, reception and tailored menus featuring the freshest local produce followed by a reception of your choice at either
the Ballroom, or the Morning Glory restaurant with its wraparound views. Upon arrival guests are welcomed with a glass of ‘bubbly ‘or fresh orange juice, and a tailored three-course breakfast, lunch or dinner will be served after the wedding ceremony. This package also includes a one night stay for the bridal couple in one of the opulent Honeymoon Suites at the Fancourt Hotel, offering total privacy and seclusion along with incredible views. Completing the pampering is a bottle of sparkling wine and a honeymoon turndown for the newly weds. For an additional R2600, the bride and groom may extend their honeymoon with a night at the adjacent Fancourt Manor House boutique hotel. Accommodation rates are available for friends and family wishing to stay over after the reception too. In preparation for the wedding, the Fancourt Spa offers a variety of pamper packages to add to the luxury and indulgence of the special day. Delight in a head to toe Bridal Bliss Package (R2100), which includes a Deluxe Spa Facial, Manicure & Pedicure (French paint included), Body Exfoliation & Personalized Body Wrap, as well as a Full Body Massage. This package also includes a bridal make-up session and hair styling at Fancourt’s in-house hair salon to ensure that the bride looks her glamorous best on the wedding day. Add a sensuous touch to the honeymoon with a soothing half-day Partners Package, which includes a ‘His and Hers’ Deluxe Facial, Manicure and Pedicure, with sparkling wine and snacks at R1550 per couple. Other packages on offer are a half-day Groom’s Grooming Package (R1100 per person), and a half-day Bridal Pamper Party Package at R920 per person. Complimentary facilities offered at the spa, include a heated Roman bath and jacuzzi, sauna and steam rooms and a tepidarium. Fancourt is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World.
For more information please contact reservations on Tel 044 804 0000 or email events@fancourt.co.za Follow on @FANCOURTSA • www.fancourt.co.za 12 Brides Essence Issue 6 12 Brides Essence Issue 6
Wedding Venues
MONT ROCHELLE HOTEL Imagine an exquisite winelands wedding in Franschhoek!
Mont Rochelle Hotel & Mountain Vineyards offers the perfect vineyards setting for a wedding. With its breathtaking position on a working wine farm, a stone’s throw from the quaint village of Franschhoek, this boutique hotel exudes a quintessential country charm. Boasting one of the best views of the valley, it provides a stunning backdrop for a wedding and also ranks among the top honeymoon destinations in the Cape. At Mont Rochelle each wedding is approached as an individual creation, designed to fulfil every expectation of the bride and groom. A choice of picture-perfect settings and glorious dining venues combined with luxurious accommodation, warm Cape hospitality and gourmet cuisine, discern the world class offering here. Wedding guests may be accommodated in 16 superbly-appointed en-suite bedrooms and six sumptuous suites, offering captivating views, while newlyweds may revel in the romance of discovering secluded corners of the farm together, or indulge in midnight feasts in the privacy of their splendid suite. A small, attentive team offers warm, personal service and invaluable experience to ensure a seamless wedding, whether a small and intimate family affair, or a lavish occasion for up to 80 guests. A choice of magical outdoor venues is on offer to host the wedding ceremony, including the Rose Garden which accommodates up to 80 guests; the Vineyard Rooftop that will seat up to 60 guests; and the Slave Bell where a ceremony can be held for up to 30 guests. Culinary wedding feasts may be held at the Country Kitchen restaurant with its enchanting garden setting for parties of up to 60, while a wedding marquee set in the picturesque winery garden can accommodate up to 80 guests. 60-Seater, fine dining restaurant Mange Tout with its wrap-around views serve as a third venue option when the wedding party books the hotel exclusively for a minimum of two nights. Cuisine at Mont Rochelle is a world-class affair, with chefs at both restaurants adept at creating tailor made menus featuring the freshest local produce, with 3-course menus from R250 per person. The attentive, one-stop service extends to sourcing and arranging services such as live music, flowers and table settings (these may be requested at an added fee), while special packages for Bridal or Honeymoon couples offer great value options. The Mont Rochelle Winelands Wedding Pack
‘Undoubtedly one of the most beautiful settings in the World’ age offers couples the ultimate winelands wedding celebration with a 2-night stay in the Honeymoon Suite with its own private garden and splash pool. The package includes the services of a Minister to coordinate all the legal requirements and perform the ceremony at one of Mont Rochelle’s picturesque venues; a picnic lunch-for-two; a sensuous dual full body massage; a private hair and make-up session for the bride; a bouquet of flowers for the bride and button hole for the groom; postwedding canapés served with a bottle of Graham Beck Brut MCC; as well as a romantic dinner for two at Mange Tout with a personalised Belgian chocolate wedding cake as dessert for up to eight guests. Complimentary airport transfers are provided to and from Mont Rochelle; as well as a welcome drink on arrival; full English breakfast each morning; in-room treats such as fresh fruit, handmade Huguenot chocolates; and a bottle of Mont Rochelle Cabernet Sauvignon with a personalised label, all included from R34 500. Accommodation rates are available for friends and family wishing to join the bridal couple for a stay-over at the hotel. Alternatively, the Mont Rochelle Honeymoon Special is an exceptional gift to newlyweds, offering the bride accommodation at a 50% reduced rate, per booking for two people sharing for a minimum of three nights, including full English breakfast daily and a room upgrade when availability allows. Guests attending a wedding here may enhance their visit with a cellar tour and wine tastings of the award-winning Mont Rochelle and Miko vintages, or indulge in brisk vineyard walks, horse riding and mountain biking. Unique experiences are also on offer, such as wine tasting on horseback and tastings of delicious dishes expertly paired with select Mont Rochelle wines. Or simply refresh in the sparkling swimming pool. Facilities include a Spa with two serene treatment rooms, Jacuzzi and sauna to ensure guests leave feeling refreshed and relaxed. Mont Rochelle Hotel & Mountain Vineyards www.montrochelle.co.za Tel: +27 21 876 2770 • Email: info@montrochelle.co.za Follow on @MontRochelleH
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Wedding Venues Take the stress out of your wedding arrangements and allow Design Travel to arrange your perfect Destination Wedding. We offer every client our personal attention and guaranteed service excellence by going the extra mile. With Ground Handlers and wedding co-ordinators at hand, we look forward to designing a unique and unforgettable day.
Contact details: [t] +27 11 5042844 • [m] +27 82 562 6195 • [f] +27 86 512 5214 [e] info@designtravel.co.za • [e] leisure@designtravel.co.za
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Wedding Venues
Weddings have become a speciality at Bartholomeus Klip and the Deckhouse makes a magical setting for groups of up to 80 guests enjoying drinks, dinner and the ceremony itself. For larger groups, the lawns around the farmhouse provide ample space to setup a marquee and have a party to remember for decades. Couples have chosen to marry in all sorts of unusual places around the farm or in the reserve, and we are happy to accommodate almost any wish. www.bartholomeusklip.com and info@bartholomeusklip.com
Bartholomeus Klip - a speciality!
*Brides Essence Cover and above photographs supplied by Bartholomeus Klip.
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Promotion
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Coverderm Perfect Lashes is all-in-one mascara that softens, separates and adds volume to eyelashes, keeping them light and elastic. Coverderm Perfect Lashes is 100% waterproof, hypoallergenic and opthalmologically tested, and will keep lashes looking perfect all day long. The mascara, perfect for contact lens users, contains nourishing natural ingredients such as Beeswax, Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamins A, C and E, making lashes healthier, shinier and stronger. Available at Dis-Chem and leading Pharmacists
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y a w a e v i G Yankee Candle, The world’s best loved candle, offers the world’s largest and most compelling selection of candle and home fragrance scents. With over 150 fragrances in their Floral, Food & Spice, Fruit, Fresh and Festive ranges, there is a scent for every mood and occasion. Made with fragrance extracts and real essential oils, Yankee Candle scents are the standard by which all other fragrances are judged. Developed to take you on a journey to the familiar and unfamiliar, the known and the unknown, whether real or imagined, these scents encompass new, trendy or trend forward scents and concepts interspersed among classic favourites. Yankee Candle has developed a beautifully subtle fragrance for the most important day of your life, your wedding day! The Wedding Day fragrance is a sophisticated and soothing blend of florals and subtle fruits. Available in small, medium and large signature Housewarmer® Jar Candles, Samplers®, small, medium and large Tumbler Candles, Tea Lights and Tarts® the Yankee fragrances are created with pure, natural fragrance extracts that feature captivating colours that look as delicious as they smell and perfect for adding the extra touch to your wedding day, and any day thereafter!
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Stockists: Available from Smileys At Home stores • www.smileysathome.com • Johannesburg 011 268 0719 and Cape Town 021 762 2626 OR contact 021 788 7408 to find your nearest stockist.
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Competition
Enter now to be the
Bride of Essence 2013 & the
Brides Essence December 2013 Cover Bride! WIN your very own personalised fashion shoot and an 11 night honeymoon of a lifetime worth over 50,000 in South Africa and Malawi! To Enter Email:
150 words why you should be the Bride of Essence for 2013, the date of your wedding in 2013, your full name and the name of your Groom to be, your physical address and a head and shoulders and full length photograph of yourself to competition@bridesessence.com Entries must be emailed no later than 01 July 2013. Winner will be notified by email during August 2013 and will be announced in the 01 September issue.
Your Honeymoon: Five-nights in Cape Town: Two nights at The Last Word Constantia on a bed and breakfast basis including romantic turndowns; two nights at The Last Word Long Beach on a bed and breakfast basis including romantic turndowns; and one night at The Last Word Franschhoek on a bed and breakfast basis including romantic turndowns. - This portion of the prize is valid between May 1, 2014 and August 31, 2014. Extras such as dinners, lunches, beverages, telephones calls, transfers, laundry and any other expenses will be for the prize winner’s account to be settled on departure. One night in Johannesburg: One Night at Thaba Ya Batswana Eco Hotel & Spa for 2, including Breakfast for 2, Dinner for 2 and 2 Spa Vouchers at Sinzinani Spa. (Dates will be specified on the voucher)
Thank you to our valued sponsors: Robin Pope Safaris - www.robinpopesafaris.net The Last Word - www.thelastword.co.za Thaba Ya Batswana Eco Hotel & Spa - www.tyb.co.za
5 Nights in Malawi: With Robin Pope Safaris - Staying at Pumulani Luxury Beach Lodge on Lake Malawi and Mkulumadzi, Luxury Lodge in Majete Wildlife Reserve, Southern Malawi. 2 nights at Mkulumadzi and 3 nights at Pumulani: Full Board, laundry, local drinks, and all activities offered at the lodge, except motorized watersports, included. Also includes Road transfers Blantyre / Mkulumadzi / Mkulumadzi Pumulani Road Transfer / Pumulani Lilongwe road transfer. (Dates will be specified on the voucher)
+
Your very own Personal Fashion Shoot in the Brides Essence December 2013 issue for you and your groom and the opportunity to be the Cover Bride. TERMS & CONDITIONS:
All meals and drinks and all extras not mentioned are for the winner’s account. All flights and transfers not mentioned within South Africa and Malawi and to and from Malawi are for the winners account. Transport and flights to the shoot in Johannesburg/ Cape Town are for the winners account as is accommodation for the night of the Shoot. All Brides who enter must be getting married in 2013, if a bride enters and wins and her wedding is cancelled the prize will become invalid and a new winner will be selected. Entry into the competition indicates acceptance of all terms and conditions. Judges decision is final. Prizes are not redeemable for cash and are only valid as per the dates on the prize vouchers.
The winning bride of essence will also win a Coverderm Luminous Exfolia giveaway...Watch this space! Brides Essence
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Wedding tips
Top 5 online tools to make
tying
the knot even easier
You may already be addicted to blogs about the big day and adding your two cents to wedding forums, but in this digital age more and more couples are moving their wedding planning tasks online. If you’re drowning in checklists, budgets and magazine cut-outs, shifting some tasks to the web is a great way to simplify your planning, keep track, and save you and your groom-to-be a lot of stress. There are scores of websites and tools out t here (most of them free) that can help streamline your plans and make your big day a web wedding. New bride and senior interaction designer Yenny Otero from Opera Software, makers of the Opera web browsers for computers and mobile phones, gives advice on the top five ways to plan your wedding online.
1. Invitations and save-the-dates Why: “Sending invitations and save-the-dates online is a great way to save the costs of printing and postage. It is also the best way to distribute them if you want to incorporate the new trend of adding video,” explains Yenny Otero. Digital invitations are also great for giving your guests as much notice as possible – for example, if you’re having a short engagement or inviting B-list guests closer to the date, and the postman just won’t be fast enough for you. 2. Wedding website Why: A wedding website is perfect if you have a lot of extra information for guests, particularly for destination weddings. Simply include the website address on your invitation. A website can hold a countdown to the big day, detailed directions to wedding events, links to the registry and hotel details. Some wedding websites also include blog or mail out features so that you can update guests on your plans. 3.
Tracking guests Why: There is so much information needed from your wedding guests – and so many opportunities to lose track of it. You need to know who has received an invitation, contact details, dietary requirements, who sent what gift, which out-of-towners are staying where, and so much more. There are many online tools to help you keep all guest information in one place.
4. Inspiration galleries Why: During the planning process you’ll start to see inspiration for your big day everywhere you look. Yenny notes that while scrapbooking magazine cut-outs may be fun, it can also get messy. “Today’s brides are spending more time searching online for wedding ideas, so it makes sense to move your inspiration or mood boards online, too. Keep all of your inspiring pictures of to-die-for details in one central place.
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5. Sharing photos and videos Why: Your special day will pass by so quickly, but you will cherish all the photos and videos from your wedding for years to come. “You’ll want to gather all the images and share them with your guests – but at the same time, your inbox won’t be able to handle receiving large photo files. Make sure you and your future hubby are clear on your vision for the big day, and how it captures your passions and personalities. Take the time to look through and test out the different online tools, with the idea to a stress-free wedding planning process. “Whether you’re newly engaged or getting close to the date, surfing the web for options can help bring smooth sailing to your special day,” says Yenny.
Visit Opera Software for more of Yenny Otero’s tips.
Honeymoon venues
The last word in intimacy Cape Town is the African Riviera; the playground of the continent; “the fairest cape in the entire world” that’s the reason it is a popular wedding and honeymoon destination for discerning local and international bridal couples. In keeping with the Mother City’s reputation, The Last Word Intimate Hotels are located in the best settings the region can offer - away from the madding crowd. Here dreams of perfect, small,
intimate weddings come true. Alternatively, look no further for a honeymoon hotel that encourages you to live your story and to realise your fantasies. So, shroud your love in a veil of romance at The Last Word intimate hotels. You’ll be treated with discretion, charmed by personalised hospitality, captivated by picturesque locations and enchanted by exquisite style and understated elegance.
Memories are made of this...
Vibrant indigenous flora and vivid exotic plant life create a tranquil and serene ambience at The Last Word Constantia, a hidden gem in a gardener’s paradise, in Cape Town’s oldest wine valley. Top world class restaurants and eight spectacular wine estates surround The Last Word Constantia.
of beaches. This nine-roomed intimate hotel oozes luxury, romance and charm.
A 20-minute drive will get you to the Table Mountain cable station, the V&A Waterfront with its renowned aquarium, the scratch patch for semi-precious stones, world-famous Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden and to a choice
High tea is another unique experience in The Last Word’s collection of unforgettable indulgences. Set in The Last Word Constantia’s park-like gardens, you’ll appreciate yesterday’s charm mingled with today’s magic.
For a memento of your memorable occasion you’ll find bespoke works of art that promise matchless exclusivity in the shop in The Last Word Constantia.
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Honeymoon venues
The Last Word Long Beach with six rooms offers
spectacular seascapes of Kommetjie and Noordhoek’s extended beaches. The white sand for which the Western Cape is renowned is few steps from your bed. Guests can enjoy the thrill of the ride as they view board and kite surfers display their prowess – or they may choose to participate. Horse riding is invigorating and popular along this stretch of beach. Those who prefer more relaxed activities have 4kms of coastline to explore, and for the brave-hearted a dip in the icy Atlantic Ocean is something worth bragging about! Untouched by commercial development visitors have unsurpassed views of Chapman’s Peak, Hout Bay, the
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Sentinel mountain, Silvermine and Table Mountain. This hotel is located in the quaint fishing village of Kommetjie that boasts the tallest lighthouse in South Africa. After a short, picturesque drive you can be in the Cape Point Reserve, where the cold Benguella and warm Mozambique currents meet, Boulders Beach, Simonstown or eclectic Kalk Bay. It is clearly evident why this hotel in the The Last Word intimate portfolio has consistently been the judges’ favourite in the World Travel Awards for South Africa’s Leading Beach Hotel. It also offers picture-perfect scenery along Ou Kaapse Weg and Chapman’s Peak Drive (the routes to Kommetjie).
Honeymoon venues
And for magical landscapes, the drive to The Last Word Franschhoek is incomparable. This hidden gem in the alluring Western Cape wine lands has six rooms Here, in the heart of the village, recommended activities include gourmet wining and dining in world-class restaurants, boutique shopping, walking and hiking, mountain biking, wine tasting, chocolate tasting, cheese tasting, visiting historic buildings and museum, golf on championship courses, cycling, as well as wine tasting on horseback.
The Last Word extends its horizons to include Racontours, a touring outfit that encourages honeymooners to uncover Cape Town’s precious gems and offers activities for the adventurous and for the not-so daring. The Last Word’s particular brand of warm, genial, irresistible hospitality will be indelibly imprinted on your memory. It’s a pioneering model, an intimate hotel that’s beyond boutique.
The Last Word is a member of Mantis and Preferred Boutique Hotels. For details phone: 021 794 6561, email: info@thelastword.co.za, visit: www.thelastword.co.za
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Honeymoon Fashion Swimwear‌
The best swimwear range in SA this season
Priced from R795.00 to
R1295.00.
nationwide stockists. WWW.SLIMSUIT.CO.ZA 24
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Honeymoon Fashion Swimwear‌
Amazing swimwear range with built in compression to illuminate bumps.
Retail price is from
R1995 to R2495 and available nationwide.
www.miraclesuit.co.za
EMAIL: INFO@SLIMSUIT.CO.ZA WEB: WWW.SLIMSUIT.CO.ZA Brides Essence Essence Brides
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Honeymoon Fashion Eyewear‌
POLICE 2012 Sunglasses Collection
Energetic, defiant, sexy, POLICE is the brand for powerful and magnetic personalities: fashion lovers, never fashion victims.
For 2012, POLICE presents a collection with a contemporary vintage feel, where metal frames prevail, either drop-shaped or aviator-like or with more square profiles. These come alongside a number of sophisticated acetates with a vintage feel, even with two-colour versions.
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Honeymoon Fashion Eyewear… The undisputed star of the collection is the blue mirrored lens that made the brand so successful in the ‘80s and that is available in all models of the collection, for a very glam rock version. A symbol of freedom and of an underground style, which has always been recognised worldwide as a distinctive part of the brand’s heritage, the famous blue lens is now revived and represented as a must-have with a more daring look than ever, combined with new shapes and experiments.
The key themes for the men’s and women’s 2012 sunglass collections are square and drop shape; double profile and bicolor; top bar and double rim.
POLICE remains a cut above with inspired and edgy styles Brides Brides Essence Essence
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Wedding & Honeymoon Planning
travel
honeymoon & wedding guide
TAKE THE BLUES OUT OF WEDDING PLANNING AND CLICK HERE FOR YOUR FREE GUIDE TO WEDDING & HONEYMOON SERVICE PROVIDERS!!! 28
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Book Reviews The Five Love Languages - Gary Chapman Marriage should be based on love, right? But does it seem as though you and your spouse are speaking two different languages? New York Times bestselling author Dr. Gary Chapman guides couples in identifying, understanding, and speaking their spouse’s primary love language - quality time, words of affirmation, gifts, acts of service, or physical touch. By learning the five love languages, you and your spouse will discover your unique love languages and learn practical steps in truly loving each other. Chapters are categorized by love language for easy reference, and each one ends with specific, simple steps to express a specific language to your spouse and guide your marriage in the right direction. A newly designed love languages assessment will help you understand and strengthen your relationship. You can build a lasting, loving marriage together. Gary Chapman hosts a nationally syndicated daily radio program called A Love Language Minute that can be heard on more than 150 radio stations as well as the weekly syndicated program Building Relationships with Gary Chapman, which can both be heard on fivelovelanguages.com.
ISBN: 9780802473158 / PRICE: R 139.95
Happily Ever After - Gary Chapman “My husband and I can’t seem to agree on anything!” “You spent how much!?!” “My wife’s parents are driving me crazy!” ”You never listen to me!” Let’s face it - even the best of marriages hit an occasional bump in the road now and then. The secret to marital bliss lies in how you and your spouse handle those bumps. In Happily Ever After, Gary Chapman, the man “who wrote the book” on how to communicate with your spouse, shows couples how to successfully navigate the six most common problems that couples face: fighting fair, negotiating change, managing money, getting along with your in-laws, raising kids, and maintaining a healthy sex life. Drawing on more than 30 years of counseling experience, Dr. Chapman provides real-world examples and practical, battle-tested advice that will help you and your spouse better understand and communicate with each other as well as grow as a couple for many years to come.
ISBN: 9781414364445 / PRICE: R169.95
The Scarlet Thread - Francine Rivers Two women, centuries apart, are joined through a tattered journal as they contend with God, husbands, and even themselves . . . until they fall into the arms of the One who loves them unconditionally. Sierra Madrid’s life has just been turned upside down when she discovers the handcrafted quilt and journal of her ancestor Mary Kathryn McMurray, a young woman who was uprooted from her home only to endure harsh conditions on the Oregon Trail. Though the women are separated by time and circumstance, Sierra discovers that many of the issues they face are remarkably similar. By following Mary Kathryn’s example, Sierra learns to surrender to God’s sovereignty and unconditional love.
ISBN: 9781414370637 PRICE: R 139.95
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