makes your Wedding Journey
magical
‘A successful marriage requires falling in love many times, always with the same person.’ Mignon McLaughlin, US journalist
Weddings have such powerful appeal because they radiate hope and happiness; reflect a united future founded on commitment and loyalty – embraced by love and romance. It’s all that people want for their loved ones and for themselves. Montecasino is all about the magic of making happy memories and loves to add value to guests’ experiences through their dynamic portfolio of offerings to the public. Couples are invited to embark on the Montecasino Wedding Journey – from selecting the perfect ring in one of our two jewellery stores, making the proposal in any number of romantic restaurants or even in the Hyundai Balloon at sunset. You could also celebrate the engagement at La Scala Restaurant or Southern Sun Montecasino’s beautiful outdoor deck overlooking the pool. Embrace the allure of the honeymoon night in one of Montecasino’s three elegant hotels – the Southern Sun Montecasino, SunSquare Montecasino and Montecasino Palazzo hotel. The wedding reception venue offering is varied and includes: La Toscana, a private function venue in true Italian style which can accommodate up to 200 guests banquet-style with state-of-the-art presentation equipment and a full stage. The Montecasino Ballroom, a private function venue designed for up-market events and decorated in elegant contemporary style, can accommodate up to 400 guests; and the lovely Verona Suite in The Pivot can accommodate up to 200 guests, banquet-style.
Before the wedding however, the bachelorette and bachelor parties must be considered. For fun, laughs and good times, Montecasino has several venues that are proving ideal for the ‘last night out’, such as Cantare Dinner & Dance Vintage Varga Bar or Parker’s Comedy & Jive. There are wedding attire services available too, from Lady Marmalaide for bridal gowns and celebrity designer Diaan Daniels’ boutique for grooms and groomsmen, both located in The Pivot; Luxy Sensation, which offers a wide selection of seductive and bridal lingerie. Skoobs Theatre of Books with its coffee shop and champagne bar offers inspiration with its wide range of wedding books, party planners, and honeymoon guides. Preparing for the special day is also catered for through Lanna Lifestyle Spa which offers special treatment services for him and her, a weight centre and naturopathic therapy. The Senate Hair Salon can create the perfect hairstyle to suit every bride. Montecasino is the enjoyment of life – and nothing symbolises that better than a wedding.”
lanna
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Celebrating the wedding
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Bride of Essence 2012 Fashion shoot
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Wedding hair
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The last word in Intimate honeymoons
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Brides Essence Photographer 2012
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Vintage Bride 2012
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Creating your invites
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True life Story
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Book reviews
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Editors Voice Women are Remarkable! I had the privilege of attending the Cornerstone Church Kaleidoscope Womens Conference this month, and it was all about remarkable women. Women who make a difference, women who are beautiful inside and out, and I hope that Brides Essence inspires you all to be remarkable women. Encourage each other, help each other, live your dreams. In this issue we bring you three remarkable women Shannon Smith the Winning Bride of Essence 2012, Nikki Emmenes the 2012 Vintage Bride and Salome Hoogendijk Brides Essence Photographer 2012. Congratulations to you all. Let us not forget, that if it were not for our valued sponsors these amazing competitions would not be possible - Thank you all for your valued contributions and support. Brides Essence is in fact all about Women and if you turn through the pages of this exciting fifth issue you will find remarkable women throughout, waiting to assist you with your special day. We must not forget however the very important men in the SA wedding industry, taking some of the most incredible photographs and designing the very best in Men’s wear. We hope you all find something remarkable in this issue!
Love Justine “Give and it will be given to you; a good measure - pressed down, shaken together and running over - will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you.” Luke 6:38 And remember – “Love never fails.” 1 Corinthians 13:8
Publishers Details: Cherry Berry Blue Publishing SA cc, Johannesburg, South Africa
Editor: Justine Engelbrecht justine@cherryberrybluepublishing.com
Mobile: 074 440 8668 Design and Layout: Vashti Derrick t/a Gigibug www.gigibugdesign.co.za • 082 822 6022
Website design: www.bridesessence.com One2love, Plettenberg Bay
Fashion Shoot Photographer: Luke Engelbrecht
Sales: Justine Engelbrecht, Vashti Derrick, e-Published 2011 © Bi-Annually by Cherry Berry Blue Publishing SA cc CK 2010/139 845/23, all rights reserved Brides Essence is registered by Cherry Berry Blue Publishing SA cc / ISSN 2079 - 5815 While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information in this 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 fifth issue of Brides Essence Magazine.
Cover Pic: Bride of Essence 2012 Shannon Smith & Fiancé Brandon Greek taken by Luke Engelbrecht
Photoshop brushes sourced from www.brusheezy.com 4
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Celebrating the Wedding of Christiaan and Zandri
by photographer Lesa van Rooyen
Christiaan and Zandri celebrated their union with the most beautiful garden wedding ever created. Chinese lanterns, bonfires and fairy lights transformed their guests to the universe Zandri had created. The simplicity put every guest at ease, and it was as if time stood still. People will talk about this wedding for years to come. Happiness was all around!
“As a wedding photographer, we see all kinds of weddings, big ones; small ones; fancy ones; simply and elegant ones; but this wedding was a real privilege to photograph. It reignited my passion for wedding photography and inspired a new style of more relaxed images. With a wedding like this, Zandri and Christiaan should have a long and happy life together”.
At Kaimara we leave the creative choices to you and your partner. We have a "no-fuss" and "no rules" approach to wedding photography. Marriage is not for the faint-hearted and we strive to give you something to look back on when the going gets tough ;) We shoot from breakfast until the fat lady sings and we have the confidence to know we can make the memory of your special day as bright as the day itself. Bottom-line: With us, you have complete control over your wedding photos; when, where, how and for how long you want it. We’re a ‘one-stop-shop’ for photography, wedding videos and photo-booths.
wedding photography
info@kaimara.co.za www.kaimara.co.za Lesa 082 441 4395 Pieter 082 448 9662
Sponsors
Models: Bride of Essence 2012 Shannon Smith & FiancĂŠ Brandon Greek Venue: Turffontein Race Course, Johannesburg
Bridal Couture: Lady Marmelaide Menswear: Diaan Daniels Make-Up Artist: Schane Matthews Photographer: Luke Engelbrecht 6
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Health & Beauty
Wedding Hair The trend towards pastels that we’re currently seeing has never really left the world of bridal fashion. Perhaps it’s the sheer romance of those delicate shades that have always drawn brides in to the ethereal beauty of the occasion. I’m seeing more and more softness and a return to a more natural glow in the overall looks of brides all around the world. And South African brides pull this look off with such ease, grace and enchantment. Even though hairdressers are booked way in advance and hair condition is optimized in the months leading up to the big day, the wedding hairstyle may change a gazillion times along the way…and that my dears, is your absolute right. Always follow your heart; after all it has led you to this very Big Day! My favourite hairstyle, in keeping with the soft, natural and romantic look, is undeniably an updated vintage chignon.The chignon even sounds exquisitely gorgeous and conjures an image that is steeped in romance. But perfect chignons with every hair glued in place just seem like a terrible bother…and on your wedding day, when all you really want is to celebrate the moment that unlocks a future of love, care, kindness and grace, there is absolutely no point in being stressed and distressed by a fixation on the perfect bun! So, to work little hands; with ease and jubilation:
Rule No.1 Curl your locks. The curl will not only work towards the softness of the look, but in practicality will help to ‘hold’ your look. It will make the hair easier to fold and pin in place, easier to wrap around and position.
Rule No.2
Divide hair into sections. Now this is entirely up to you. A classic chignon can be a simple pony 18
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wound in an 8 knot (horizontally is my preference; but what I find easier to do is to part the hair and create two definite sections that are pretty much wound round each other. You can be as elaborate as you wish by creating more and littler sections that are wound around the bun you’re building and just pinned into place.
Rule No.3
To create lift and volume, you may want to tease your hair (as gently as possible) and spray in place to secure. What I usually do when I want a big voluminous chignon is divide hair into three sections and uses the middle section as my big bun, which is secured as a ponytail and teased to create the bigness that I crave, the ends are folded in and the bun is secured. Then I separate the other sections on either side of this bun to quickly, easily and gently position separate curls all over the bun. What makes it chignon-like, is the lowness of its position on the head, and also weaving around of the strands, which can be only in one direction, or from as many as you like. Some very easy and beautifully flawed chignons are sometimes the most perfect. A quick twist of hair pinned into place low at the nape of your neck, with glorious wavy wisps floating in a halo of romance and subtlety around your face can be the most soul-warming and inspiring look on a day when your heart is exposed for the entire world to see. Beautiful Blessings, The Makeup Mistress www.makeupmistress.com
Schané Matthews has always dreamt of being a Make-up Artist and today she pursues her dream. She did her Make-up Artistry training through The Make-up School in Rivonia under Joy Terri. Schané Matthews is also the preferred Makeup Artist for Brides Essence Magazine fashion shoots. Schané Matthews says, “Weddings have fascinated me as long as I can remember, the whole dressing up like a princess, the make-up, the hair … That’s what I do make every bride look like a princess on her special day.” Schané Matthews is based in Alberton but travels throughout the Gauteng region. “Makeup Artistry is my passion, you can trust with confidence that I will make you feel and look like the most beautiful, glamorous and striking bride on your special day.” Email me to schedule a trial and book your make up for your special day.
Schané Matthews Cell: 083 997-2213 www.schanebridalmakeup.co.za • schane@schanebridalmakeup.co.za
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honeymoons
The last word in intimate 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. The Last Word Franschhoek is a hidden gem in the alluring Western Cape wine lands. Always well received by local and international guests, this intimate hotel has a light, fresh feel and an embracing welcome.
It is clearly evident why The Last Word Long Beach on the sea front in Kommetjie was the judges’ favourite in the 2009, 2010 and 2011 World Travel Awards for South Africa’s Leading Beach Hotel. Apart from the picture-perfect scenery presented along Ou Kaapse Weg and Chapman’s Peak Drive (the routes to Kommetjie), the hotel offers unsurpassed, uninterrupted vistas over the ocean to Hout Bay
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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. As a reminder of this memorable occasion you’ll find bespoke works of art that promise matchless exclusivity in the shop in The Last Word Constantia. High tea is another unique experience in The Last Word’s collection of memorable indulgences. Set in The Last Word Constantia’s park-like gardens, you’ll appreciate yesterday’s charm mingled with today’s magic.
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 allows you to live your story – to realise your honeymoon dreams. It’s a pioneering model, an intimate hotel that’s beyond boutique.
For details phone: +27 (0) 21 794 6561 email: info@thelastword.co.za www.thelastword.co.za
*The Last Word is a member of Mantis and Preferred Brides Boutique Essence - IssueHotels 5 25
Wedding Planning
There a few times in a person’s life, when we are able to take our dreams and create them into reality. Times when the silken threads of the tapestry of our fantasies from child and adulthood join together into one perfect creation! One perfect day, that is moulded by landscapes, fabrics, music, paper, food, wines, flowers, friends and beauty. This is a time to be indulgent, but not trivial, a time to make promises, share love and become united. This is your Wedding day! Let us help you create the tapestry of your perfect day‌The Brides Essence Wedding team is made up of a network of women and one man, who are passionate about life, about God, about weddings and about offering you the perfect service to ensure that your dreams are realised and your love is celebrated! Together we create memories and fulfil dreams, let us assist you with your special day.
www.bridesessence.com Email Justine: justine@bridesessence.com
Giveaway
Win
One Lucky Cape Town Reader can win a 1 hour Couples Swedish Massage To enter answer the following Question: What Day spa takes you back to the 50’s whilst spoiling yourself with a pedicure, facials, massages etc.? Email: competition@bridesessence.com l Subject Line: Petticoat Parlour.
What is a Swedish massage.
It is the most common type of massage at the spa. Swedish massage combines various hands-on techniques including gliding, kneading, and cross-fibre friction to break up muscle knots, called adhesions. Swedish massage is based on the Western concepts of anatomy and physiology as opposed to energy work. It can be slow and gentle, or vigorous and bracing, depending on what the therapist wants to achieve. Terms and Conditions: Prize cannot be exchanged for cash. Winner will be notified by email. Judges decision is final.
Petticoat Parlour Tel: 021 434 9484 www.petticoatparlour.co.za info@petticoatparlour.co.za Paramount Centre, 105 Main Road, Green Point
Photography
2 1 0 2 r e h p a Photogr Salome Hoogendijk
“I consider myself and artist and was always drawing and painting from as early as I can remember. My mother gave me a bag of old evening and wedding dresses to play with, and since then I have loved to use my imagination as much as possible. Although I studied art in school and nearly went to study Fine Arts at University, I had an attack of a desire to get a “real job”. Thus I followed in my father’s footsteps to become a dentist. It may seem very far removed from an artistic background, but you still need a lot of artistic capabilities to be able to do cosmetic dentistry,” says Salome. She continues, “My husband Frits has been doing photography as a hobby since he was eleven, and he introduced me to it. Initially only doing wildlife and avian photography, I was hooked! I couldn’t wait for a safari holiday or weekend to get behind my camera, and pretty soon it became more of a lifestyle than just a hobby. A friend of mine suggested that I may enjoy studio and wedding photography, and I started to dabble in it. I absolutely adored the freedom the studio gave me to create whichever fantasy world I wanted to, and the sheer happiness of a wedding day made me fall in love with wedding photography. When I started to become very busy with the studio and wedding work, I decided to follow my passion, closed my dental practice, and became a full time photographer. I haven’t looked back since, as I am one of the fortunate people who cannot wait to get up in the morning for work! “
Aside from photography Salome enjoys painting in oil and working in pencil, as well as her other passion music. She plays the piano and violin and when not photographing, she is a compulsive reader. She lives with her husband Frits, her four huge dogs and they are expecting their first little one in August this year. Congratulations Salome!
Salome Won 2 nights at the beautiful Samara Private Game Reserve in the Eastern Cape where she managed to capture these stunning Cheetah Pics Brides Essence - Issue 5
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Photography
taken by Salome Hoogendijk
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taken by Salome Hoogendijk
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taken by Salome Hoogendijk
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taken by Salome Hoogendijk
Giveaway
NEW “ECO DIET” AIMED AT HOLISTIC GOOD HEALTH AND INTELLIGENT WEIGHT LOSS Nutritional consultant Vanessa Ascencao has developed an “eco diet” encompassing mostly organic, natural, raw food and supplements, in particular Spirulina. It’s aimed at: • Healthy weight loss • Increased energy Focus o n resista nce • Decreased stress training 3-4 time sa week -W • Reduced signs of ageing a l k ing is one of t • Feeling good and looking amazing! he be Vanessa’s top 10 health tips: • Balance your blood sugar levels • Eat food in its natural and whole state • After 3 pm, make veggies your carbs • Eat good fat, especially Omega-3 rich foods • Keep your dinner lean • Always eat balanced snacks and meals • Eat & drink food for the soul in moderation • Drink water • Don’t forget to sleep – 7-8 hours at least!
st forms o.
of cardi
Contact Vanessa Ascencao on 086 199 8880 www.vdanutrition.com
WIN
ONE LUCKY READER CAN WIN A HEALTH HAMPER GIVEAWAY VALUED AT R1400.00 Email your name & address to competition@bridesessence.com
Samara
Private Game Reserve Your destination of choice Samara Private Game Reserve is one of the most loved destinations in the Great Karoo and it is not hard to see why. Surrounded by a natural amphitheatre of mountains, Samara sits in perfect serenity in the reserve’s pristine wilderness. Combining colonial comforts with the essence of Mother Nature, you will be treated with exceptional service, enabling you to relax and allow the tranquility of the Karoo to envelop your soul. Samara is the perfect Karoo destination, whether you are looking for a paradise for anniversaries, birthdays, gettogethers, or weddings. Head directly to Samara or stop over en route to the Cape. Whatever your needs, you will find their personal attention unrivalled and you will leave the lodge with lasting memories. Situated at the base of the Sneeuberg Mountains and on the edge of the legendary Plains of Camdeboo, there is a choice of venues to suit the style of your special event and perfection is ensured by the professional team who offer you
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and your guests’ personal, but unobtrusive service. Samara offers guests the most unique and special experiences. Enjoy candle-light bush dinners, mountain top picnics, choirs singing, or experience jazz bands from Graaff Reinet. Samara offers the ideal location to celebrate special times with family and friends. Whether it be a timeless wedding set in the beauty of the bush, a romantic honeymoon or a family celebration, Samara is the destination of choice. Hearing the sounds of nature in the calm, still night, and the sounds of nature taking its true course, whilst one thinks night is a time of calm, peace and restfulness, the sounds of the wild in the bush prove otherwise. The calming sounds of the Cape Mountain Zebra grazing in the vast fields of the Great Karoo, nestling in the coolness of the bushes. When seated calmly on the wrap-around veranda , one begins to think of the sort of activity that takes place in the dark of the night. The peaceful call of South Africa’s rare national bird, the Blue Crane, calling upon his mate, brings visions of
unity and belonging. The wind breezing through the Thicket at speeds of enormous tenacity, takes ones breath away in an instant. The wildlife of Samara Private Game Reserve comes alive at night. The taste sensations of unique dining await - crystal service in the dining room or even candle lit dining under the bright stars of the night, an afternoon picnic overlooking the romantic plains while indulging in delicious cuisine and quality wines. The tingling sensation of prickly pears and pomegranate, inhaling the mouthwatering aroma of cinnamon and vanilla, sets ones unique taste buds into a frenzy of adventure. Easing through a five course meal, from the incredible tease of a starter to the mind-blowing main course‌ and to end off the perfect meal, a satisfying dessert of exotic fruits of the forest and sipping the sensational taste of quality red wine, a perfect close to any day of exciting adventure. The elegant accommodation options at Samara will leave guests feeling at home and as if you have found Heaven on Earth. Samara can now accommodate up to 40 guests with the beautiful Karoo Lodge, Manor House and Mountain Retreat, and now the new additions to the Samara family, Sibella Suites. The Sibella Suites overlook the waterhole at Karoo Lodge where there is an abundance of birdlife and where the animals come and frolic during the cool of the evenings and early mornings. With its own en-suite shower, patio and beautiful interior, the Sibella Suites are perfect for honeymoon couples, a romantic break to rekindle your love or if you are seeking peace and tranquillity from your busy life. Other accommodation options at Samara Private Game Reserve include the Karoo Lodge and Manor House. The Karoo Lodge is a stylish interpretation of the original Karoo farmhouse, complemented by gracious service and delicious cuisine from
its Karoo Kitchen. As from 1st July, Karoo Lodge will boast 10 beautifully appointed suites all with wide verandas and decorated with antiques, nineteenth-century lithographs from South African artists, zebra skins, and indigenouswood four-poster beds. The Manor House, which opened during 2008, offers luxury, air-conditioned en suite rooms boasting spectacular views over the extraordinary Karoo landscape. Relax in four spacious suites with free-standing baths and large, separate showers and be cradled in the luxury of beds that lull you to sleep. You will arrive at this historic homestead and upon entering breathtaking views will unfold over an infinity pool which descends into a natural water hole at which game is present in the early morning and late afternoon. Exclusive dining experiences at the Manor House include a boma, veranda, dining room and breakfast room with services including a personal ranger, chef and butler. Quiet but not silent, Africa’s voice whispers sweet nothings through the grasses. Step into a time gone by at Samara and feel your soul become refreshed and rejuvenated.
For more information on Samara, contact reservations@samara.co.za or call 023-626 6113
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WIN!
Be one of four lucky readers to each receive a gift-set containing a bottle of Monis Muscadel along with two martini glasses valued at R160.
travel
honey�oon & wed�ing guide
Email your name and address to competition@bridesessence.com. Gift-set cannot be exchanged for cash. Judges decision is final. Greet your friends with a stylish aperitif and add some pizzazz to your dinner party. Monis Muscadel spent five years in 500-litre old French oak barrels and holds delicious dessert flavours of raisins, Christmas cake, cinnamon and subtle citrus, culminating in a velvety smooth and lingering mocha aftertaste. Serve it in a martini glass over crushed ice with a selection of nuts, cheese, preserved figs and tapas or skip the heavy dessert (and the effort entailed!) and serve the Monis Muscadel as a gorgeous after dinner treat.
Enjoy beautiful hair on your special day! Two lucky readers can win a prize of Trichotin Hair Regenesis.
Worth R690
Email your name and address to competition@bridesessence.com
The benefits of Trichotin Hair Regenesis are: • Reduces hair loss • Stimulates stronger, healthier hair growth • Improves skin clarity The benefits of Trichotin DHT Inhibitor are: • Prevents hair loss • Stimulates hair growth • Promotes prostate health • Supports a healthy libido
Contact: 011 022 2853 www.trichotin.com
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AN EXCEPTIONAL LOCATION FOR A DAY TO REMEMBER
The iconic Turffontein Racecourse offers an exceptional location for your wedding reception. Breathtaking views of the racecourse and city skyline are on offer from a number of individual venues, catering to your exact VSHFL¿«FDWLRQV« ZKLOVW« WKH« YDULRXV« HOHPHQWV« of this historical racecourse offer the perfect backdrop for timeless photographs. We look forward to making your special day perfect, call Agnes on +27 11 681 1702 or e-mail functions@phumelela.com for more information.
Vintage Bride 2012
Nikki Emmenes won a Dream Vintage Wedding
Reception at Turffontein Race Course for 80 people. For more information or to book your very own Vintage Wedding at Turffontein Race Course Please contact Agnes- 011 681 1702 Brides Essence - Issue 5
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Stationery
Creating your invites
The most exciting part of your wedding day is the realisation that you are finally getting married. You have invited all your special guests and the anticipation is building as you get closer to your special day. As a little girl you may have fantasized about your wedding day and maybe even shared thoughts of dreams to come with your friends; discussing colours and crazy girlish ideas of what promises to be the most amazing day of your life. You were filled with anticipation and romance, you may even have had some boy in mind, chances are the man you are about to marry has surpassed all your girlish expectation and you are wanting to add a touch of panache and sophistication to your childhood dream. It is now time to return to that childhood fantasy and enjoy creating a theme for your wedding, this starts with the creation and invention of your very own personalised wedding stationery, the signature of your wedding. The piece of the wedding puzzle that entices and teases your guests as to what your wedding will be like, it is the first impression and these are most often the ones that last. Allow your wedding invitation be the essence of your wedding dream, as well as a combination of your dreams together, choose favourite colours, special words that touch both your hearts and choose patterns that express the fun, formality or theme of your wedding. Consider all the factors of your wedding: Where are you getting married, is it in a church, on the beach, in the garden? Is your wedding formal, semi-formal or informal? Your invitation can leave your guests pondering on the details although it must allow them to understand for what
type of wedding they are dressing and when and where they must be and at what time. Attention to detail is tantamount, fun examples may include a scroll for a medieval wedding, a message in a bottle for a beach wedding, an embossed invitation for a traditional black tie wedding and so on. If you were one of those little girls who collected writing paper, then you will enjoy choosing your paper. Today paper comes in all sizes, colours and textures, so you can enjoy discovering the ones that best work for you; whether it be velvet, glitter, embossing, matt, gloss, envelopes, boxes, tissue or crepe papers it is time to have fun and enjoy creating your special theme; with the extra bonus of having the option to create a digital version of your special invitation. It is important to take into consideration the input you will get from endless friends and family members always remembering that this is your and your fiancĂŠ special day and you can create it just the way you dreamed. Let your stationer know your budget so that she can design an estimate for you according to your number of guests, style and ideas. Here are a few things to make sure of when checking your invitation, date, venue, time, RSVP date, gift registry information (if you have one), directions, cash bar( if applicable). I hope you have an incredible wedding and may your wedding invitations portray the quintessence of your dazzling event. For all your wedding stationery requirements contact Vash on vash@gigibug.co.za
Gigibug, designs hand-made wedding stationery unique to each brides personal wedding theme. Brides can choose from a range of different envelopes and paper. Every bride has her own idea of what her heart desires for her wedding and Gigibug can help make that dream a reality. For more information and personalised quotes according to your specific budget. NEW: We now have DIY kits available for brides who would like to make their own invites, it is more affordable, each kit is unique to each brides requests.
W: www.gigibugdesign.co.za I E: vash@gigibug.co.za C: +2782 822 6022 I T: +2711 450 1362 40
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Photography Contact: justine@bridesessence.com to receive Luke’s Collection of Packages for your special day
Luke is a freelance photographer who is passionate about the creativity of his art. He has done fashion wedding photography for Brides Essence Magazine, Brides Essence Travel Magazine and Travelmagsa. He is able to capture not only the bride and groom but the many pictures that surround them, enveloping the landscape, the architecture, the essence of the people and the natural scenery into their special memories!
TAMz o
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i
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a
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Every occasion is made spectacular with Tamz delicious and creative cakes, she also does small cakes and cupcakes. Decadent finishes include Belgian chocolate, fondant creations in a myriad of colours and modelling chocolate; delicate handmade chocolate roses or exquisite meringue frosting.Try Tamz dreamy creamy ganache’s made with Belgian chocolate or delectable buttercream. All made to order for your special day.
www.tamz.co.za tammy@tamz.co.za Cell: 079 516 1911
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Giveaway
How to look drop-dead gorgeous on your
Wedding Day!
The date is set, the location and menu decided, your hair and makeup artist booked and the wedding planner busy with all the finer details that are sure to make your special day, one you’ll never forget! The only thing left is to design your Vera Wang inspired gown and make sure the zipper closes all the way to the top. Weight is something almost every bride stresses about and inevitably the stress helps them lose a few kilos anyway, but instead of worrying and losing the unhealthy way, every bride should prepare themselves way in advance by starting an exercise routine that will ensure they feel confident and radiant on their big day. Many brides have opted to use Adventure Boot Camp because it’s an outdoor fitness programme for women-only that offers group training, with like-minded women under the careful instruction of a qualified personal trainer. Say goodbye to long queues for equipment at the gym and tedious work-outs in confined spaces. This programme is designed to give women a safe environment in which to get fit while making use of the natural obstacles found in the outdoors, and of course there is an abundance of fresh air! Ladies can choose to attend camp 3 or 5 days / week in the morning or late afternoon, for an hour a day. Exercises include short distance running, rope skipping, abs and core training, Pilates, obstacle courses, circuit training, weights,
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mat work, games and hiking. It’s a great way to network with other women and make new friends. Progress can be tracked and a personalised eating plan downloaded by logging onto the website to help shed those extra kilos. Every day is different and is especially designed by a qualified personal trainer who pays individual attention to each camper and is aware of any special requirements. Ladies get the full body workout they deserve, leaving them rejuvenated, radiant and ready for their moment of glory. Get wedding ready today by registering on www.AdventureBootCamp.co.za or for more information, call the national head office on 021 447 2746 / 082 567 2267.
WIN
ABC is giving one lucky bride the chance to win a 4-week Adventure Boot Camp worth R690.00 at any location nationwide to get you wedding day ready!
To enter email your name, address and date of your wedding to competition@bridesessence.com
Special feature
True Life Story Kim Petersen is 35 years old and she lives in Cape Town, this is her story! I have lost 12kg’s and about 50cm! I started my weight loss journey when I was diagnosed with PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome). My gynae told me that if I wanted children, it was imperative for me to lose weight. I’ve always battled with my weight, and I knew I had to do something but never did. Clearly I needed a kick in the pants, and when it’s your doctor who does the kicking, you listen! A friend of mine kept nagging me to join Adventure Boot Camp and I kept ignoring her, until that day I was diagnosed. I came into work from the appointment, went online and registered immediately. Browsing through the site, I came across a dietician, Kim Hofmann and decided to contact her, and on the 4th September 2010, I went to see her and together with ABC, my life started to change. She put a meal plan together for me and so it began. The first 2 weeks were pretty tough as your body goes into shock. It’s thinking, “What on earth is going on here?” By week 3 it started to get easier and I got used to new and better habits. With PCOS, I have increased levels of insulin, which makes weight loss really hard and both my parents have Type 2 Diabetes, so I’m at high risk of getting Diabetes, which I am determined to not let happen. The weight loss has been slow but steady, I feel more comfortable in my own skin and slowly but surely the
confidence is getting better. By following a low GI, low carb, low fat and almost no sugar eating plan and attending Adventure Boot Camp three times a week, my life has changed for the better. I can see the potential within myself and that keeps me going. My first goal was to lose weight for my wedding and I lost 12kg’s and I am continuing ABC to lose more weight as I still have 8 more kg’s to go. I’ve never enjoyed exercise but since doing ABC I can honestly say that I love it. Its fun and we laugh most of the time when doing the exercises. Best of all no one judges you. My tips are to persevere! Yes, it’s hard but the results are worth it. I cried when I came home from my first day but I didn’t give up. You may not see the weight loss straight away, like in my case, but when you do, it’s a fabulous feeling. Especially when people start noticing how well you’re looking! Think of it as an investment in yourself!
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Book Reviews Recipe for Love
Power in Prayer
Katie Fforde
Can love be the sweetest thing? The fabulous new novel from the Sunday Times bestselling author of Summer of Love. Take one aspiring cook, one judge, and a spoonful of romance... When Zoe Harper wins a coveted place in a televised cookery competition she’s thrilled. It’s a chance to cook her way to fame and fortune and the little delicatessen she’s set her heart on. The first task has hardly begun when she finds herself with rather too much on her plate. Not only has she got to contend with the fiercely competitive and downright devious Cher, but she’s fast developing an inconvenient crush on one of the judges - the truly delicious Gideon Irving. All too soon there’s more than canapés, cupcakes and cordon bleu at stake. Will Zoe win the competition or is Gideon one temptation too far? And is Zoe really prepared to risk it all for love?
Andrew Murray
The Best of Andrew Murray on Prayer You are invited to fully experience the power of drawing near to Christ through prayer. These inspiring and practical devotions, gathered from Andrew Murray’s most beloved books, will help focus your heart and mind on the vital aspects of an effective prayer life. Topics include: Praying in Harmony With God Victory Over Prayerlessness Living a Devotional Life The All-Prevailing Prayer--and much more. Accompanied by memorable Bible passages, the more than 150 readings have been edited with updated language to speak as clearly today as they did to previous generations. ISBN: 9780764209314 Price: R 64.95
ISBN: 9781846056536, R215.00
The New Rules for Love, Sex & Dating
Guilty Wives James Patterson
Lust, murder and betrayal in this gripping thriller from James Patterson Only minutes after Abbie Elliot and her three best friends step off of a private helicopter, they enter the most luxurious, sumptuous, sensually pampering hotel they have ever been to. Their lavish presidential suite overlooks Monte Carlo, and they surrender: to the sun and pool, to the sashimi and sake, to the Bruno Paillard champagne. For four days they’re free to live someone else’s life. As the weekend moves into pulsating nightclubs, high-stakes casinos, and beyond, Abbie is transported to the greatest pleasure and release she has ever known. In the morning’s harsh light, Abbie awakens on a yacht, surrounded by police. Something awful has happened - something impossible, unthinkable. Abbie, Winnie, Serena, and Bryah are arrested and accused of the foulest crime imaginable. And now the vacation of a lifetime becomes the fight of a lifetime - a fight for survival. Guilty Wives is the ultimate indulgence, the kind of non-stop joy-ride of excess, friendship, betrayal, and danger that only James Patterson can create. ISBN: 9781846057908 Price: R195.00 Random House Struik Tel +27 (011) 484 3538 • Fax +27 (011) 484 6180 • www.randomstruik.co.za
Andy Stanley
Are you who the person you are looking for is looking for? Single? Looking for the right person? Thinking that if you met the “right person” everything will turn out right? Think again! In The New Rules for Love, Sex & Dating, Andy Stanley explores the challenges, assumptions, and land mines associated with dating in the twenty-first century. Best of all, he offers the most practical and uncensored advice you will ever hear on this topic. Not for the faint heart, The New Rules for Love, Sex & Dating, challenges single Christ followers to step up and set a new standard for this generation! “If you don’t want a marriage like the majority of marriages, then stop dating like the majority of daters!” – Andy Stanley Facebook twitter Messages: o The Right Person Myth o Gentleman’s Club o Designer Sex o If I Were You ISBN: 11D00D Price: R99.95 Christian Art Distributors Brides Essence - Issue 5
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