We started the week with macarons, so I thought it was the perfect way to finish our week as well. Because a girl can never have too many macarons. If you loved our feature on macaron favours and are wondering where you can find some of these pretty pastries for yourself, then allow me to introduce you to Cape Town’s Lady Macaron.Read More
SouthBound Guide: How to Pin a Boutonnière
Happy Friday, friends! You know, in my years as a wedding blogger, many’s the time I’ve come across pictures of a hapless groom waiting for his bride at the altar, boutonnière akimbo. Bless them. By the time we’re at the couple shoot, that lil’ bout has always been rearranged. Now, whether your groom’s buttonhole is up, down or sideways is the absolute least important thing going on during your wedding ceremony. But to help the guys out (and save you having to fix it later), here’s a quick and simple SBB guide to pinning the boutonnière. You’re welcome, gents! PS Did you know that the tradition for pin corsages (aka the ladies’ equivalent of a boutonniere) is to be worn on the opposite (wearer’s right) side and with the stem facing up?Read More
Dip Dye & Ombre Wedding Dresses
Last year I was blown away when I featured this beach wedding, which included the gorgeous ombréd Rosenworth dress pictured above (you SouthBound Brides are such trendsetters!). Again a few months ago, I featured a stunning dip-dyed wedding dress as part of this photoshoot, and it’s since become one of our most pinned images. Clearly, the ombré wedding dress is having its day, and having done a roundup of these breathtaking beauties, I am an even bigger fan than before. It’s just the perfect way to add colour to your look while still retaining the elegant white wedding dress at the top (and in many of your photos) – a stylish compromise between classic and statement looks. Have a look at these pics and tell me you’re not a convert!
*Links in bold denote affiliate links. The cost to you remains the same, but SBB may receive a commission for any sales made.
Protea Pink Neethlingshof Estate Wedding by Nadine Aucamp {Larize & Jacques}
You KNOW how much we love proteas here on SBB. Just when I think I may have seen enough of them, I buy a bunch and fall in love all over again. They’re like the mafia that way… just when I thought I was out, they pull me back in… ;) And today’s wedding shows you just why – not only do they make for lovely bouquets, they were the colour inspiration for the sweet mint and pink palette. I love the way these shades were brought in at the reception, against a cool backdrop of white on white, with lovely mint wood board runners, iced cookie favours, and even a ruffled pink cake topped with blushing brides (making another appearance in the bride’s hair, love!). Nadine Aucamp has captured the big day beautifully, adding a sprinkle of magic and romance to her images that perfectly reflects the love Larize and Jacques share.Read More
Rustic Romantic Bellwood Wedding by Maurice & Magpie {Natalie & Kelly}
There’s something about a rustic wedding that gets me every time. Maybe it’s the mix of textures, the natural colours and floral elements, or just the simple unpretentious romance of the countryside. Today’s wedding has all of that in droves and thoughtful details galore, from stencilled burlap placemats and chalkboard wine holders on the tables (love the lace, button and print napkin rings too!), to hanging mason jars filled with candles and baby’s breath, right down to a sweet vintage cameo on the bride’s dress. And with a soft rain bringing blessings as well as a dreamy quality to Maurice & Magpie‘s gorgeous photos, the rustic fairytale is complete.Read More
Julie Vino Orchid Collection
Brides, get ready for some serious dress lust. Julie Vino‘s Orchid collection is AMAZE – a combination of red-hot sexy and extremely feminine and romantic, it really stands out. Based in Tel Aviv, Julie’s a new designer on my radar (although already well established) and I just can’t get enough of her sleek silhouettes and glamorous details. And oh, those details. Hand embroidery, ornate beadwork, shimmer, lace, a shiny gold belt, an Olivia Palermo-style short/skirt combo… This collection has it all. And while it’s currently only available to buy in Israel and the US, I just had to share the inspiration with my South African brides!Read More
Charming Country Roodezand Wedding by welovepictures {Lee-Ann & Mark}
You could say this wedding had me at hello. Although actually, it was more like, it had me at ‘You & Me Kiddo’ because OMG how adorable is the ceremony signage that Lee-Ann and Mark chose for their charming country fete? This gorgeous wedding (photographed by the insanely talented welovepictures) took place in small-town Western Cape, with just a touch of vintagey French flair. I love the laid back feel of the day, and the way that whimsical elements (paper flowers, yay!) mix seamlessly with soft, romantic elements (how much do I heart those mint bridesmaid dresses?). As I write this, the adventurous couple are on a year-long round the world trip, but they found time (and internet access) amid the jetsetting to send us some of the behind-the-scenes info!Read More
Fun Favours: Macarons
Well, you KNOW it’s going to be a good week when it starts with macarons, right? These little bites of sunshine have firmly engrained themselves in the heart of brides and wedding bloggers alike – and not only are they delicious, but there’s something so pleasing about their smooth round shape, delightful flavours, and mix of colours. Which basically makes them the perfect wedding favour, because not only will they look lovely on your tables, but they’re not going to get left behind (in fact, most won’t make it to the end of the night uneaten – at least if I’m your guest!). For the talented bakers among you, it’s possible to do these as a DIY, but be aware that many a brilliant cook has tried and failed at macarons. Personally, I prefer to leave them to the professionals (more on that later this week). But wherever you procure yours from, here are some of my favourite macaron favour packaging ideas to inspire you.Read More
Inspiration Board: National Velvet
You guys, velvet is BACK. The texture that I was in love with when planning my matric dance dress circa 1995 and that did a disappearing act thereafter has come full circle in the cool stakes. So right about now, I’m in love with velvet as a warm fabric that adds that extra touch of luxe to a celebration. We’re not talking full scale velvet, but we are talking velvet ribbons tied around cutlery, menus or bouquets, velvet bowties (how much do we love the bow as a hairpiece below?), even a velvet suit for the daring retro groom. Best of all, I love the colours that velvet comes in, and today I’ve mixed together a gorgeous dusky rose with a soft blue, as well as a navy – all readily available in this texture. Welcome back, old friend.
Colours: Powder blue, navy & rose
Top row (l-r): Groom’s shoes {Lacie Hansen Photography/Tamara Bolton}: invitation suite {Ceci New York/Elizabeth Messina }; settee {Gabe Aceves}
Row 2: Velvet bowties {Jen Huang Photography/Poppies & Posies}; menu with velvet ribbon {Elisa B Photography/Ribbons and Blue Birds}; navy velvet shoes
Row 3: Bouquet with velvet ribbon {Brosnan Photographic/Ruby and Bloom/The Bridal Lounge}; velvet bow hairpiece {Jose Villa/Boutaugh/Grey Likes Weddings}; escort cards {Jose Villa}; velvet suit {Jen Huang/Magnolia Rouge }
Portrait of a Marriage: Luisa & Ashton
Portrait by Catherine Mac
Which of your wedding pictures has remained your favourite?
My favourite pic is the one of Ash and myself above. I just love the light and the moment that Catherine managed to capture.
What changes have happened since your wedding?
Other than my husband cutting his hair and growing a beard, no real changes have happened in our lives since our marriage two years ago. We have both been working hard in growing our own businesses and aim to travel as much as we can before settling down to start a family. Its really been amazing working towards achieving our goals together.
Any marriage advice for SBB readers?
Remember, it’s the regular and small acts of kindness and affection you show to one another that really help build a loving relationship.
See Luisa & Ashton’s full wedding feature here.