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What’s Your Colour? Choosing The Right Wedding Theme.

We frequently get asked how to create a workable colour scheme that translates throughout the wedding theme. Getting the colours wrong will not only be an eyesore for your guests, but it will also ruin your wedding theme. Rest assured, we are here to guide you in getting it right.

Cast your minds back to primary school, where we were first introduced to primary, secondary and tertiary colours.  

  1. The primary colours form the basis of all colours. These are red, blue and yellow.
  2.  The secondary colours are a combination of the primary colours. Orange (red+yellow), purple (blue+red) and green (yellow+blue)
  3. The tertiary colours are a mixture of primary and secondary. These are  Red-OrangeYellow-OrangeYellow-Green, Blue-Green, BlueVioletRedViolet (Usability.gov, 2021)

We were also introduced to colour temperatures. 

  1. Warm colours include the primary colours red and yellow, with orange falling in the middle.
  2. Cool colours include the primary colour blue and variations of secondary colours green and purple. Greens take on some of the attributes of yellow, and purple takes on some of the characteristics of red. (Usability.gov, 2021)

Source: Usability

Warm color scale

Warm Colours

Cool color scale

Cool Colour

The Colour Wheel

A colour wheel helps compliment between the primary, secondary and tertiary colours. It is an effective tool in being able to develop a colour scheme that works. 

There are many variants of a colour wheel ranging in complexity. Below is a summary of a simple colour wheel. These include:

  1. The primary, secondary and tertiary colours are identified.
  2. The colour temperatures have been divided, showing warm on one side and cool on the other.
  3. The two complementary colours are opposite, for example, orange and blue or violet with yellow. The warm colours are orange and yellow, and the cool colours are blue and violet. 
  4. To add a third colour, look at the adjacent colour to each other on the wheel. An example would be orange + blue +red-orange or orange+blue+blue-green
  5. Incorporate neutral colours to create a subtle colour scheme. The frequent neutral colours for a wedding are silver, gold, ivory and white. 

Source: Pinterest.com

Colour Tones, Tints and Shades

Colour tones, tints and shades play a factor in deciding your colour scheme. A colour tone refers to when a hue (primary, secondary and tertiary) colours are mixed with grey. The colour tends to be duller; a tint is when white is added, brightening the colour hue, and a shade is when black is added, darkening the colour (Beach Painting Contractors, 2021).

Source: https://www.beachpainting.com/blog/color-hue-tint-tone-and-shade/

Tips in choosing the right colour scheme

Use a colour wheel for inspiration to select a wedding palette. Follow the guidelines mentioned above, use complementary colours, possibly analogous colours, if you want to be bold. Do not forget to add neutrals as they can soften a colour scheme. Be aware of the tones, tints and shades within the hues.

Art supply stores tend to sell colour charts.  Alternatively, some hardware stores offer complimentary paint selector guides, which can help fine-tune colour preferences. There will be a variation in hues when comparing different materials. Once you have narrowed down your selection, go to a fabric store and find the closest hue. Most fabric stores can cut a small swatch which you can begin constructing your fabric colour wheel.

Tones, tints and shades within hues differ amongst fabric types (i.e. silk, chiffon). Therefore, when selecting your colour scheme, include fabric material. 

Accessing websites is another effective tool in developing your colour scheme. Pantone® who are experts in colours have a colour finder. (https://www.pantone.com/color-finder).

The colour finder offers numerous tones, tints, and shades within a particular hue. It also allows you to select a colour library that you can liken to a season, such as pastels and metallics. We would recommend starting with a primary colour, add a neutral then build your colour scheme from there. 

Using the colour finder tool is a great way to play around with colour and get a feel for what works and what does not. And it is free unless you opt to purchase that particular colour library and hue. 

Source: Pantone

Vision Boards

As we have mentioned in one of the previous blogs, vision boards are a great way to visualize ideas. Add various colour scheme and fabrics to get a feel with what works and what appeals.

Seasonal Colour Schemes

Different seasons tend to gravitate towards varying colour schemes. I got married in summer, where my colour scheme was blush pink and gold. I opted for warmer temperature colours.

Following seasonal variations along with a colour wheel can assist in developing your colour schemes. During the warmer months, colours tend to be bright and more audacious; therefore, brides can experiment with colours and create contemporary colour schemes. In the cooler months, particularly in winter, colours tend to be bolder such as red, green, metallic.  Pairing bold colours with heavier fabrics will no doubt be an eye-popper.

Source : Pinterest.com

Bridesmaid and Accessories

It can be challenging to translate the colour scheme to the bridesmaid dresses due to the bridesmaids’ individuality of hair and skin tone. Adjusting the tone, tint and shade of the hue will address the differences in hair and skin tone without affecting the colour scheme.

When carrying the colour scheme across to accessories such as flower arrangements, table centrepieces carry a small amount of the dominant hue across.

Source: Pinterest.com

Most colour trends are influenced by the Pantone®  color of the Year. I also tend to check out what is trending on pinterest along what fashion designers are using for their collections each season. These will definitely give you some ideas of what colours you can choose.

Selecting a colour scheme is a process that can be overwhelming. Take your time with it. The colours chosen should represent the style, mood and ambience of the wedding. Utilize the tools available to you.  Enjoy creating!

Main Image Source: Pinterest.com

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Perfection in Every Shoe… Choosing the right one for your Wedding Dress.

We frequently get asked what shoes should be worn. The simple answer is that there is no hard and fast rule on what shoes can be worn. Anything goes.

Shoes can make or break an outfit. Balancing comfort and style are no easy task. There is a plethora of options. Like any accessory, it is how you style the shoes with your chosen look.  When I got married, I based my style on my shoes. I purposefully purchased a statement shoe that I felt was elegant, yet sexy and of course, had the bling factor.

I settled on a pair by Italian designer Rene Caovilla. It was a ‘t-strap’ stiletto covered in gorgeous white satin and had jewels along the front of the shoe.  And because I purchased the shoes first, the dressmaker matched my dress to my shoes perfectly. I was nervous about them staining, but the shoe designer arranged for them to be professionally scotch guarded. The bonus in buying these shoes was that I could and did dye them in black.  The heel height was 100 mm. I usually wore higher shoes, but logic prevailed, and I chose comfort over height.

The choices were staggering. I knew I did not want a patent shoe (I got married in summer and patent in the heat is not forgiving), not too high as I had to be in them for at least 12 hours, minimal heel-to-toe-drop, be on the broader side, not chunky and finally, be comfortable.

Today, if getting married, I would choose a block heel to prevent me from sinking in the grass and ruining my shoe’s heel. Possibly with a built-in platform for added comfort. Would I do a wedge, that would depend on the chunkiness? Would I do a bling sneaker, probably not?  That does not mean a bride cannot.

To aide in the decision-making process, here are a few options:

Block Heels

One of my favourite heels. I find these to offer good support mainly from the front of the foot. Great for standing all day. These types of heels come in varying heights and styles. This type of heel will not dig into the grass, and you can walk on any uneven surface without damaging your heel. My tip for a block heel is to make sure the foot-to-toe ratio is spot-on; otherwise, you feel pain throughout the day.

An alternative to the block heel is a square or flared heel that could also work with varying dress styles. A flared heel has a bit more of a wow factor to it.

Image: Badgley Mischka https://www.instagram.com/p/CDvrnY5HuWw/

Cuban Heel

Surprisingly, a Cuban heel could work, depending on the outfit. The heel would provide good support due to the medium-low height options.

Image : Pinterest

Wedge Heel

Like a block heel, wedged heel shoes come in varying heights. I find wedges a flattering on feet and easy to stand in all day. As wedges can be quite chunky, you need to have your outfit when trying these shoes. In my experience, the wedge heel can look wrong when paired with a formal gown.

Image : Badgley Mischka https://www.instagram.com/p/CFKJwaIAn6m/

Stiletto Heel

Love this type of heel, striking.  Diverse in height, width and style. As you will be in the shoe all day, I recommend that the foot-to-toe ratio be spot on to prevent any pain running through your foot. Stiletto heels do dig into the grass and can be easily damaged. A heel protector can prevent damage. 

An alternative for those wanting a high thin heel stiletto shoe, consider one with an inbuilt platform. I find an in-built platform to look more stylish. If you cannot find a shoe like this, any platform will work. A platform still creates the wow factor and takes any pressure away from the foot.  Another option is a cone heel or a spool heel. Both types of heels are timeless in style.  Easier to walk on the grass and uneven surfaces. Feet friendlier when you have to be in them all day. Again, these come in varying heights.

Image: Rene Caovilla https://www.instagram.com/p/CFXUD5oh73O/

Kitten Heel

A kitten heel is a good option for those who prefer a stylish low heel. By far a sensible choice in comfort. Again, watch for the grass and uneven surfaces as the small heel will get damaged.  Not wanting to deal with the grass headache, consider a French Heel. A kitten heel only thicker.

Image : Pinterest

Sneakers

Sneakers are on trend now. Should they be worn with a wedding dress? Firstly, you need a sneaker with bling. If you are going to wear a pair, make them stand out. Secondly, it depends on the wedding dress and the theme of the wedding. There are no hard and fast rules. Wear what works and what’s great about sneakers is that you can customise them to suit your dress.

Image: Pinterest

Ballet Flats

The slipper-like in design with a very thin or completely flat heel with a closed toe. These type of shoes are not as supportive as other shoes due to the lack of arch system to help absorb the brunt of the pressure the feet endure every day. I would recommend you change into these more towards the end of the night if you are experiencing pain from your shoes.

Image: Nicholas Kirkwood Instagram https://www.instagram.com/p/B91rFtpJRAX/

Stretching your shoes

We get asked how to stretch your shoes. There are so many hacks on YouTube that can give tips on how to stretch your shoes. I wore my shoes with thick socks and walked around the house and the block street a month prior. Regardless, when you are in your shoes for 10 hours plus, they will hurt.

Have band-aids with you or a blister block type product that can prevent blisters from forming and rubbing on your shoes. If you have bunions or corns, there are protectors you can buy that will help stop rubbing.

Despite my efforts in stretching my shoes, I lasted in my shoes up until the last two hours of the reception. I had to peel my shoes off and slip into thongs. Now that hurt. Have a go-to-most-comfortable shoe with you, just in case.

Other considerations..

The material of the shoe is another factor to consider. Leather is the most comfortable and hard-wearing but can look a bit boring. If opting for a material, a good cobbler can protect the fabric.

Another consideration is to select a shoe based on the width, arch height and length of your foot.  Addressing these factors will aid in your comfort. If you are getting married in summer, feet swell so do not try shoes on when the weather is cool. When trying on shoes and it feels uncomfortable, put the shoe down. It is not for you.

If your shoes are a statement piece, add a coloured shoe such as gold, silver, or a bold colour like red, or maybe blue. A coloured shoe will give your outfit a pop and add that extra something.

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Main Image: Instagram Badgley Mischka https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqOO9RjcYNdVl6cICFDCDcA

How To Choose the Right Shapewear.

Dictionary’s definition of shapewear is ‘women’s tight-fitting underwear intended to control and shape the figure’. There is no dispute that shapewear works in slimming the tummy, hips, and thigh area; and some lift the buttocks. Finding the right style for your body can be a bit of a challenge. There needs to be a level of comfort, and importantly, the shapewear of choice must NOT roll down your waist or roll up your thighs. The shapewear worn will be determined by the style of dress and what area of your body you want ‘shaped’. With many brands available, choices are aplenty. Below is a shapewear guide that can be used when choosing what would suit best your body type and dress

Image source: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/pin/219198706838381926/

When purchasing shapewear, consider the following:

  • Soft and breathable fabric. Most of what is out there is 90% nylon and 10% lycra stretch. The last thing you want is a fabric that makes you sweat!!
  • No roll-up or roll-down – nothing is worse than when you are walking, and you can feel the shapewear roll – you will be adjusting yourself all night. Here is where the size has to be right – take the time in finding the right size. Some shapewear has grip strips that help with the rolling. A good tip is to add dress tape to secure boyleg type shapewear from rolling up your thigh.
  • Do not go for a size smaller than what you wear – the shapewear needs to be firm but not so tight that you cannot eat or drink.
  • It creates unnecessary lumps to another part of your body.
  • Must be seamless 
  • Does not pinch any of your muscles or skin
  • Consider bathroom breaks – how easily can you maneuver in and out of the garment

We recommend that when you decide on a style of dress and the type of shapewear you will be wearing; all wedding fittings should be made with the shapewear on.

Brands of Shapewear

Spanx

When I think of shapewear, I think of Spanx. Having a pair, I find the fabric to be beautiful, and it feels like a second skin making it comfortable. The extensive range offers mid-thigh shorts, bras, bodysuit, pantyhose, to name a few. Something for everyone. Spanx also offers a male range.Check out the website for more details on the range:  https://www.spanx.com/shapewear

Image: Spanx

Skims

The brand offers an extensive size range, catering to ALL women. The range is intended to flatter, trim and lift. What is good about the range is that caters to women with a small waist, giving a nice hourglass look.  Skims has a bridal range which we recommend you explore. Click on the link below to peek at the bridal range: https://skims.com/collections/shapewear#?col=Bridal

Image: Skims

Maidenform

Good range on offer, with sizes ranging from a small to a 4XL. The range has three levels of shape – light for subtle smoothing, firm for a more controlled body shape and ultra-firm for the ultimate in smoothing. For more details, check out the website: https://www.maidenform.com/shapewear.html

Image: Maidenform

Magic Shapewear

Sizing ranges from S to 4XL, catering to most. The brand offers both medium and firm control, and the Maxi Sexy Shapers range. The products are seamless and lightweight fabric making the items comfortable to wear – ideal for brides and bridal party. Worth checking their website – https://magicbodyfashion.nl/shapewear

Image: MagicBody

Nancy Ganz

Nancy Ganz’s range is extensive. The brand focuses on Tummy, Thighs, All Over and Love Handles. It offers four levels of control – light, moderate, firm, and ultra-firm. Their website offers a virtual stylist – check it out https://www.nancyganz.com.au/shapewear

Image: Nancy Ganz

Other brands worth exploring:

There are plenty of brands to choose from. Find what best suits your body and design of the wedding dress/bridesmaids/groom/groomsmen. Shapewear smooths undergarments. It boosts confidence, accentuates curves, and hides all the unflattering bits. However, If it is not for you that is okay. You will still look fabulous on the day.

On a final note, to all our Wedztylers, you be you.

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Main Image: Spanx

How To Choose The Right Bodice For Your Wedding Dress.

In our last blog ‘say yes to the right dress’, we explored different body types along with varying styles of dress. In this blog, we are focusing on the different kinds of bodices that will complement different wedding dress styles and body types. The bodice is the upper part of the dress, covering the waist to the bust. The bodice creates body balance, therefore, an essential element of the wedding dress.

Most women know what part of their bodies is their greatest asset. Most would agree that the golden rule for choosing any dress, is to maximise your best body asset. Selecting the right bodice and neckline that suits your body type, creates a visual proportion between your upper and lower body. The symmetry of the balance is what will make the ‘wow’ factor. 

Four main body shapes will be covered. 

Source: Pinterest

Triangle/Pear Body Shape 

Women of this body shape have a smaller upper body and broader hips. The aim is to minimise the balance ratio between the upper body to the hips by creating the illusion that the shoulders are wider than they are.

 The ideal bodice type is using various accessories that will add to the volume to the waist and, choosing a neckline that opens the shoulder area up. A boat neckline, adding cap sleeves, or thick straps will add expansion across the shoulders. Consider adding shoulder pads if your dress has sleeves. Halter styles and deep plunge necklines will make your shoulders narrower. Adding ‘bling’ within the waist area will draw the attention away from the hip.  

Milla Nova

Cone/ Apple Body Shape

The Cone/Apple body shape women have a larger bust, broader shoulders and narrow hips. The idea is to minimise the bust size, shoulder broadness and add more volume from the hip down.

The neckline perfect for this body type is V-neck, U neck, scoop necks, strapless, focusing on minimising the details on the shoulders with simple straight lines. Softening the shoulders with softly draped fabrics and elongating the neckline will create the visual proportion you need. Sleeves cut on a diagonal, and a plunging necklace will also create a narrowing look. Any detail around shoulders should be balanced with a princess-style gown.

Avoid off the shoulder, puff sleeves, shoulder pads or any structured shoulder design. The idea is to draw attention to the bottom half of the gown. 

Berta

Hourglass Body Shape

Hourglass-shaped women typically have small waist and bust and hips that are proportionate to each other.  The idea with a body shape such is to create emphasis around the waist area whether it is adding ‘bling’ or cinching the dress around the waist. The focal point is the waist.

 The neckline best suited is off-shoulder, sweetheart, strapless, square, scoop, V-neck, oval, rounded or jewel.

Avoid wearing avoiding high, narrow, square, boatneck and wide necklines as it adds volume around the shoulder, creating a disproportionate to the hips.

Oscar De La Renta

Rectangle Body Shape

Women who have a rectangular body lack distinct curves. Busts, waist and hips are sized.  The aim with a figure such as this is to add curves. Adding bling to the bodice or cinching the dress at the waist will create an illusion of waist hence curves.

To lengthen the shoulder and focus on the bust area by wearing rounded necklines such as a scoop or jewel neck. Another option is opting for lower, wider necklines such as V-neck, slash, scoop or sweethearts.  Off the shoulder, bateau and strapless is another option.

Avoid square, and straight necklines as these will create a shapeless look.

Naeem Khan

Breast Shape

Women with large breasts can minimise the appearance by wearing a scoop, cow and v-neckline. Also, adding delicate accessories that sit at the decolletage will draw the eye away from the breast area. Adding detail around the waist will highlight the waist taking the focus away from the breasts.

Of course, women who want their breast to be their focal point should opt for deep plunging necklines, hence why V-neck is perfect for women with large breasts.

Small breasted women have a lot more choices as the outfits tend to look softer as their breasts are not spilling out of the dress.  Off the shoulder dresses suit most small-breasted women. Adding accessories around the bust line will also create the volume around the breast area. Wear a padded bra to create a cleavage.

Source Pinterest

Fitting of the dress

A wedding dress fitting is the best way to sculpt the gown to the body and ensure a proper fit. Brides typically need three fittings before the dress is ready to be worn. Once you have chosen the type of dress you want, whether the dress is designed or off the rack, it is essential to get the fit right.We have all been in a situation where we have fallen in love with a dress, knowing that it does not fit as it should.  

Below are ten indicators that the dress does not fit right:

  1. Does not sit well under the breast area
  2. Spillage around the back and breast area
  3. Too tight around the waist. It will not loosen.
  4.  Straps keep falling.
  5. The bodice is itchy – think of comfort.
  6. Draglines appearing around the hips
  7. The seamline is crooked.
  8. The zip is difficult to pull up.
  9. When you sit down, bend or move the dress cuts off your breathing.
  10.  The waistband is not sitting where it should.

Oscar De La Renta

Looking and feeling fabulous on the day will depend on the fit of the dress and how it suits your body shape. 

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Main Image: Berta

How to Choose your perfect Wedding Day Perfume Scent.

The essence of perfume, the feeling of completing your look with the fragrance that ties your look together; smelling the different tones throughout the day is a feeling not easily explained. The sensuality of a fragrance that compliments your mood and improves your confidence is worth the personal investment.  For wedding couples out there, choosing the right scent for you is just as important as the right undergarment or tie.

Being an avid fragrance purchaser, I want to give our Wedztyler’s a snippet of the history of perfume. The ancient Egyptian women associated fragrances with immortality. The Pharaohs were wrapped in bandages filled with aromatic oils. Egypt was one of the first countries to use fragrant oils as part of their daily beauty routines. The Greeks also adored perfume. Many of their legends and gods refer to Greek gods of scent. Their poets often talked about the use of perfumes; including for healing which we now refer to aromatherapy. The Romans, who were influenced by the Greeks, scented everything in essential oils. From there many other countries took to fragrances for varying purposes. (The Birth of Modern Perfumery, 2012).

The French have based an industry on French perfumes. No other country is known for perfumes like France, with Paris being the center hub for all the power brands. Interesting, the perfume manufacturing is from a little town called Grasse located in the Alpes Maritimes department, northwest of Nice. Grasse mild Mediterranean climate is ideal for horticulture of jasmine, rose, myrtle, lavender, and mimosa – all important for natural aromas. (Perfume of Frances, 2003-2020).

Classification of Perfumes and notes

Perfumes are describing as notes which describes the scent once the fragrance interacts with the body. Perfumes notes are divided into three – top, middle, and bottom. Most people purchase fragrances based on top notes when, in fact, middle and base notes determine the scent. Fragrances can have a different aroma differently as they settle into the skin. Below is an explanation of the different types of notes which will help couples decide their fragrance for their wedding day.

  • Top Notes – when you spray perfume, the top notes are what is smelt immediately. The small molecules found in the perfume, evaporate quite quickly. The top notes draw us to the initial smell of the fragrance. Top notes can include basil, bergamot, thyme
  • Middle Notes – once the top notes begin to dissipate, the middle notes begin to kick in. The middle notes tend to portray the scent of the fragrance. But they are not immediate. The middle notes of the perfume begin to interact with the skin over a few minutes. Once you spray a perfume on, it needs to settle, allowing the middle notes to come through, giving a true indication of the scent. These include lavender, rosemary, nutmeg
  • The Base – notes is the body of the scent. Once the middle notes begin to disappear, the base notes come in creating that lasting scent on the skin. These larger molecules of the base notes do not evaporate very quickly hence why the perfume can last on some skins for 24 hours.  Base notes include vanilla, rose, frankincense (History of Pefume, 2020)

Notes are made up of Oriental, Woody, Floral and Fresh. Under each of these four common notes are subcategories. In 1983, Michael Edward a British fragrance developed a fragrance wheel which ties the notes and subcategories together ( (History of Perfume, 2020).

https://fmukblog.files.wordpress.com/2011/12/the-fragrance-wheel.jpg

The concentration of the aromas in a perfume determines the longevity of the fragrance on the skin. For me, the more concentrated, the better. I found this image which gives an excellent comparison of the types of perfumes and their longevity. The higher the concentration, the higher the price. I would use this as a cost guide. Pricing can range from $300+ to as a low as $20 (AUD). If you are budget conscious and want a more concentrated fragrance, purchase a 30ml bottle.

Perfume Concentration

Now the fun bit, suggesting fragrances from classics to now. Perfume is personal. What works on your skin will be different to what works on my skin.

Chanel No 5 Parfum

Source: Pinterest

Top Notes: Neroli, Ylang-Ylang, Bergamot, Lemon, Aldehydes

Middle Notes: Iris, Jasmine, Orris Root, Rose, Lily-of the Valley

Base Notes: Vetiver, Musk, Sandalwood, Patchouli, Oakmoss, Amber, Vanilla, Civet

Yves Saint Laurent Opium Eau De Parfum

Source: Pinterest

Top Notes: Bergamot, Mandarin Orange, Lily-of-the-Valley

Middle Notes: Carnation, Jasmine, Myrth

Base Notes: Vanilla, Patchouli, Opoppnax, Amber

DIOR Poison EDT

Source: Pinterest

Top Notes: Coriander Seeds, Plum, Forest Fruits, Anise, Brazilian Rosewood

Middle Notes: Carnation, Jasmine, Orange Blossom, Tuberose, Opoponax, Cinnamon, Incence, Rose, Honey

Base Notes: Vetiver, Musk, Sandalwood, Virginia Cedar, Amber, Vanilla, Heliotrope

Mugler Angel Eau De Parfum

Source: Pinterest

Top Notes: Melon, Coconut, Mandarin Orange, Cassia, Jasmine, Bergamot, Cotton Candy

Middle Notes: Honey, Apricot, Blackberry, Plum, Orchid, Peach, Jasmine, Lily-of-the-valley, Red Berries, Rose

Base Notes: Tonka Bean, Amber, Patchouli, Musk, Vanilla, Dark Chocolate, Caramel

Byredo: Mojave Ghost

Source: Pinterest

Top Notes: Ambrette, Sapodila

Middle Notes: Magnolia, Violet, Sandalwood

Base Notes: Cedar, Ambergris

Bottega Veneta

Source: Pinterest

Top Notes: Bergamot, Pink Pepper

Middle Notes: Jasmine

Base Notes: Patchouli, Oakmoss, Leather

Elie Saab La Parfum

Source: Pinterest

Top Notes: Orange Blossom

Middle Notes: Jasmine

Base Notes: Patchouli, Cedar, Rose, Honey

Givenchy Hot Couture

Source: Pinterest

Top Notes: Orange, Raspberry, Bergamot

Middle Notes: Magnolia, Vetiver, Pepper

Base Notes: Sandalwood, Amber, Musk

Perfect fragrance for summer weddings. I wore Hot Couture on my wedding day.

We cannot forget the groom:

Giorgio Armani Acqua Di Gioia

Source: Pinterest

Top Notes:Lemon, Mint

Middle Notes: Jasmine, Pink Pepper, Peony

Base Notes: Labdanum, Cedar, Sugar

My husband wore Acqua Di Gioia on our wedding day.

Christian Dior Sauvage

Source: Pinterest

Top Notes: Bergamot, Pepper

Middle Notes: Geranium, Lavender, Pink Pepper, Sichuan Pepper, Patchouli, Vetiver, Elemi

Base Notes: Cedar, Ambroxan, Laddanum

Aramis Aramis Classic

Source: Pinterest

Top Notes: Aldehydes,  Artemisia, Gardenia, Bergamot, Clover, Thyme, Myrrh

Middle Notes: Patchouli, Sage, Orris Root, Cardomon

Base Notes: Leather, Sandalwood, Amber, Musk, Coconut, Vetiver, Oakmoss

Joop – Joppe Homme

Source: Pinterest

Top Notes: Orange Blossom, Mandarin Orange, Bergamot, Lemon

Middle Notes: Jasmine, Heliotrope, Lily-of-the-Valley, Cardamom, Cinnamon

Base Notes: Sandalwood, Tonka Bean, Patchouli, Vanilla

Carner – Drakon

Source: Pinterest

Top Notes: Cypress, Black Pepper, Betel Pepper,

Middle Notes: Orange Blossom, Cypriol Oil, Akigalawood

Base Notes: Sandalwood, Leather, Balsam Fir

With so many fragrances available for women and men, there are too many to list. Now that you know the history of perfume and the ingredients that go into making scents, you can all appreciate that not all perfumes are the same.

I will leave our Wedztylers with a pondering thought. A scent evokes emotion, memory, lifts the mood and creates confidence. Regardless of the type of fragrance chosen, let it represent you and your feelings of the day.  The perfume you choose is as important as selecting your colour lipstick. Open yourself to the endless choices available and enjoy the process of choosing your wedding fragrance.

Main image source: Dior

Great Hairstyle Tips for your Wedding Day.

There is no doubt that having the ‘right’ bridal hairstyle can make or break the look of any bride. Even though there are no hard rules on choosing the style of hair, the hairdo can change the look of the makeup and the ‘effect’ of the wedding dress. There is a plethora of choices, hair down, braided and updos. Our advice would be to choose what works for you and own your look. The sky is truly the limit when it comes to choosing your perfect hairstyle.

Whether you are using a hairstylist or doing your hair yourself to save cost, your hair must be in good condition. Hydrated, trimmed, cut and if you choose, freshly colored.  Healthy hair will always look best. Investing in hair masks, especially with bleached or damaged hair. The constant use of the mask prior to the wedding day will help ensure your hair is looking and feeling amazing. We recommend to use these once a week depending on the condition of the hair.

When choosing your hairstyle, your face shape can dictate on what best accentuates your face. Below are recommendations which I feel should be used as a guide when picking the style for you; we are all for being an individual and defying recommendations, trying out different styles sometimes end up being the best option, individuality and expression is key! However, this is a great place to start if you are having trouble deciding.

Source: http://bridestory.com

Hair Down

Having your hair down is a great option for brides with medium to long hair. Using extensions can be useful if trying to achieve a more voluminous and full look. Styling with braids, a half up, half down, simply curled, straightened or wavy can be a perfect option, especially if your dress is more of a classic, simple style.

Source: http://Pinterest.com

Short Hair

Source: http://pinterest

Short hair can also be worn down or half up. As I have mentioned, there is no hard and fast rules just have fun when deciding which hairstyle matches your wedding look.

BRAIDS AND UP-DOS

There is a sense of romanticism in wearing your hair up. Whether curled, braided, up in a high or low bun, it must compliment your makeup style, dress, and accessories. When I got married, my hair was long, but I chose to put it up because it suited my dress, style of makeup and the look I wanted. My bridesmaids also had their hair-up as it suited my chosen bridal party style. The updo can look quite dramatic or harsh, therefore try to balance the look, so it does not dominate your wedding style.  My updo was natural, not polished. This softened hairstyle created a total image of me as a bride.  Hair, makeup, accessories, dress, and shoes should integrate.

Source : http://Pinterest.com

Accessories

For me, hair accessories add the final addition and “wow” factor to your wedding look. There are numerous options and variations, perhaps a hair clip, crown, headband or of course your veil. A bride can be as traditional or as laid back as they choose. My accessories were a silk flower accompanied by a georgette veil. It complimented the style of my dress, hair, and makeup. This what an accessory should do—not overpowering the look of the bride.

Source: http://Pinterest.com

Whatever hairstyle or accessories you choose, do your research, and look for ideas. If using a hairdresser, know in advance what you want and meet up before hand to play around with different styles, looks and even colours. If your using the wedding vision board, show what styles you have chosen and communicate these to your hairstylist. Once again, I cannot stress the importance of having your hair cut, treated and coloured. No one wants to see split ends and re-growth. We recommend to book your hair trail 2 months before the wedding day, if you change your mind there is time to let the hairstylist know.

Our Survival Day Kit Recommendation:

On the day, your hair survival kit needs to include:

  • Bobby pins – make sure they are the same colour are your hair
  • Hair tie
  • A travel size hair spray
  • A bristle hair teasing brush
  • A multi-purpose brush to keep the hair in place.

Don’t forget to download our wedding planner – www.wedztyle.com

How To Plan Your Wedding During the COVID-19 Pandemic.

When asking our Instagram followers what they wanted information on, it was no surprise that a good percentage wanted tips on how to plan their wedding with the uncertainty of the imposed restrictions due to COVID-19.

The tips provided are on the research done. Wedztyle cannot speak on behalf of governments nor can comment on the legalities surrounding consumer entitlements in getting back deposits paid. However, what we can do is offer tips that will help couples in making the decision postpone or re-schedule their special day.

Sit down with your Partner.

You and your partner must be on the same page when deciding if you will postpone, reschedule, or adapt your wedding to the current COVID restrictions. Communication is key as weddings without such circumstances are already very stressful.

Communication with Vendors

Communicating with chosen vendors is essential for a couple of reasons. Firstly, you need to inform them of your intent – are you postponing, rescheduling, or going ahead. Secondly, you need to have the confidence that they will be operational in the foreseeable future. Understandably, we do not have a crystal ball on this, but it needs to be a consideration.

Image by Samantha Gades – Unsplash

Negotiating with your vendors

Firstly, go over the terms and conditions of each vendor. Focus on the these and adjust conditions to suit both parties.  Businesses have been affected by COVID; therefore, most will work with wedding couples to keep the business.  For those vendors who are willing to consult and work with you, give them options of dates.  Confirm all discussions in writing to protect yourselves should you need to. Vendors who are unwilling to be flexible, shop around. These are not for you.

Back – Up Choice of Vendors

Suppose the preferred vendor is not available on your date, now what? To prevent this scenario, I suggest that you have three to five vendors as a back-up. Before committing, read their terms and conditions. All negotiations need to be in writing. Please do not give any deposits unless written confirmation of a refund is applicable.

Image by Andreas Ronning – Unsplash

Contact your guests.

Notify all guests of the change in your wedding date.  You can say words like “WE HAVE POSTPONED OUR WEDDING DATE, NEW DATE COMING SOON,’ or “WE ARE RESCHEDULING OUR WEDDING, NEW DATE COMING SOON”.  Communicate this very clearly. Whether you have created a Facebook Event, Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp, or a Wedding Website, your guests need to know in advance of a pending new date.

Budget

With businesses not fully operational, consider changing your budget to reflect the financial strain that COVID-19 is bringing. For example, reducing your budget by 10% will force wedding couples to minimise unnecessary expenditure. You are using that 10% saving later for something else like an extended honeymoon.

Image by Wedztyle

Contingency Plan

These times are unpredictable. The number of allowable guests’ changes depending on the current infection rate. Wedding couples need to be adaptable; therefore, having a contingency plan is advisable. It could be that the wedding only has immediate family attending but captured on a digital platform for your pending guests to view. Or your wedding can be live-streamed, so your guests do not miss those moments. Various scenarios can come to play.

Whatever the scenario is for wedding couples, you can still have your wedding. It might not be in a traditional format (i.e. guests attending), but it will always be your day. Plan your wedding as you would with a contingency plan in mind. The Wedztyle e-planner will be a valuable resource in these COVID-19 times.

Main Image Mari Lezhava Unsplash

Wedding Checklists – A Go-To Tool for Planning the Perfect Day

Once the excitement of the engagement slowly wears off, couples now are tasked in organising their wedding. Planning a wedding can be overwhelming, leading the couple to go onto the internet, search for ideas, and a generic ‘to-do’-list. This general list is most likely unrelated to their type of wedding and leaves the couple more confused.

Why a Wedding Checklist?

A wedding checklist is a planning tool that assists couples in being able to track the planning process and not miss any vital steps.

The use of a checklist provides a systematic approach to complete the required tasks. Referred to as a ‘to-do list’ or ‘schedule’; checklists give a timeline of the wedding events. For example, when booking a vendor, various points of communication have to occur, such as date, location, style, payment schedule. Having a record through a checklist means you do not miss anything.

Wedztyle Wedding Planner

How to Utilise a Wedding Checklist?

A thorough wedding checklist saves couples time and money as it allows them to focus on the task at hand, not missing a thing. The average wedding takes 18-12 months to plan. The checklist makes the planning process manageable, giving it structure while removing the stress. Couples should enjoy planning their day. It is part of getting married.

As tempting as it might be, using a generic wedding checklist that comes off the internet, will not save time and costs. Firstly, all weddings are different. Each couple brings their uniqueness and requires a detailed wedding checklist. The checklist should be broken into these months:

18-12 months before the wedding day

9 months before the wedding day

6-4 months before the wedding day

3 months before the wedding day

2 months before the wedding day

1 month before the wedding day

2 weeks before the wedding day

1 week before the wedding day

The day before the wedding day

Having different monthly sections of the wedding checklist allows you to complete each task for that month ensuring your wedding is on track and to budget.

Wedztyle Wedding Planner

Importance of a Wedding checklist for Destination Weddings

Couples using a detailed wedding checklist when planning a destination wedding will assist that all aspects of the wedding are covered and comply with the particular country’s requirements; avoiding misunderstandings and disputes. Remember to read their terms and conditions, make adjustments to suit your wedding checklist and timeline while keeping a paper trail of correspondence.

Download your checklist today @ www.wedztyle.com

Wedding Vision Boards: The best way to use them.

Help Plan your Wedding with Vision Boards.

Planning a wedding can be overwhelming with couples finding themselves unclear on the direction to go. And why would they not be, with a plethora of options to choose from, it can be all too much. An option to bring their vision to life is using a vision board, as some like to refer it as a mood or inspiration boards.

What is a vision board?

Vision boards are just that – an inspiration of collective ideas. What I like about a vision board is that you create multiple boards. An example would include venue design, wedding dress, colour schemes, tables arrangements. The list goes on. It is these ideas that help shape the vision of your wedding. And within those boards, you can create tiers surrounded on what appeals the most or by cost.

Below is an example of how I would create a vision board for a wedding dress:
• Style of dress – add varying styles because knowing what you do not like assists you in deciding what you do
• Fabric swatch – colour and material type
• Shoes – colour, heel height, closed, open,
• Accessories – headpieces and jewellery
• Make-Up and hair – play with different looks.

Another vision board can be for your vendors. I would include the following:
• Décor of the ceremony and venue.
• Flowers
• Cake and desserts
• Photo locations
• Favours
• Invitations

Here are some tips that I have found work for me.

  1. Choose no more than ten images per vision board. Too many images/photos will confuse you.
  2. Tier the images whether it is on appeal or price
  3. When you have chosen what will NOT work for your wedding, delete the image.
  4. When you have narrowed the ideas to two images per vision board, walk away. Please give it a couple of days then go back to it.

Types of boards

Physical boards – These boards are based on cutting out images from wedding books and placing these onto a cork board that is readily accessible. Take photos of these boards to show to your vendors. The problem with these boards is where to store them while working on them. And what will you do after your wedding?

Digital boards – by far, these boards are most convenient and easily shared with all vendors. Pinterest, Canva and Adobe Spark are the three most popular digital boards; and my preference.

Pinterest is a great place to find inspiration and is user friendly. There is so much content to be found on Pinterest that you cannot go wrong. It is a free app and interactional as you can draw ideas from other like-minded people.The benefits using this platform it gives you inspiration in building a vision board with the things you like and sharing your boards with other users. www.pinterest.com

Canva has over 6000 templates in creating your invitations and vision board. Upload your images onto the boards. It is that simple. However, fees do apply for using Canva. It is approximately $17.00 a month, and you can cancel anytime. The benefits in using canva it has a easy to share option, has preset sizes and templates for social media posts, postcards, invitations etc. www.canva.com

Board created by wedztyle 2020
www.wedztyle.com

Adobe Spark is a free app that you can download onto any device. It has many templates and free photos to add onto your boards. You also have the option to take photos or import them directly from your photo library. Like canva it has a sharing options along with preset sizes and templates for social media posts. www.adobe.com

Board created by Wedztyle 2020
www.wedztyle.com

Overview
• Get organised
• Do more than one vision board
• Don’t limit yourself – apply your ideas freely
• Stand by what you want and do not want

Be creative with your boards and most importantly have fun!

The e-Wedding Planner

Planning a wedding without a clear direction can be stressful. Couples either hire a wedding planner which can be pricy (the average fee to hire a wedding planner is approximately 20% of the total budget of the wedding) or wing it. And those who ‘wing’ end up with a mess and blow their budget out.

There has a big shift within the wedding industry with many couples choosing to plan their own weddings and opting not to hire wedding planners. Depending on the size of the wedding and budget, couples planning their own weddings look for inspiration through socials such as Pinterest, Instagram and Facebook wedding groups.

I recently received an email from an accredited online course offering a course on wedding planning. Curiosity took the best of me, and I enquired. Having been in the wedding industry since 1997 (showing my age), primarily designing and decorating wedding cakes, the content I received indicated that not much has changed. However, I did notice that couples were being less traditional and adopting for ‘something different’. I will not shock you with the price asked!!! Wedztyle.com

When designing my wedding cakes, there were so many questions I would ask the couples to understand their vision and ensure that the wedding cake tied into the theme perfectly. Wedding Planning is no different. It is bringing that vision to life and offering the best experience on that special day. And of course, it needs to cost-effective.

Not to take away the value that a wedding planner brings, we have created an e-wedding planner so that couples have a clear and focused guide without the hefty price tag. The wedding planner ebook can be used together with your wedding planner or on its own.

The e-wedding planner provides a methodology on how to plan a wedding. It gives useful tips across all aspects such as vendor selection, destination weddings, wedding dress selection. The list goes on. And of course, it contains budget tables under each section; keeping couples on track. wedztyle.com

Our e-wedding planner is instantly accessible and available for download on all devices such as iPhone, iPad and kindles. Once downloaded, it can be used immediately. It is like having a digital wedding planner at your fingertips. But at your convenience.

Another key advantage of our e-wedding planner is that we like to inform our Wedztyle community of changing trends. All updates made are free of charge. Yes, you heard that correctly. No hidden costs. The price you pay, is all you pay.

Give it a go and download your copy. We welcome all feedback, good and bad. Simply head to our website to purchase your copy at Wedztyle.com

 

about WedZtyle

 

WedZtyle came about by a family of sisters who feel passionate about assisting couples in planning their wedding day. Our first introduction to weddings was back in 1997, where we started on the journey of designing and decorating wedding cakes. Over time, we developed an intimate exposure within the wedding industry. Here is where we realised that a lot of couples feel overwhelmed and stressed when it comes to planning their big day. Because of this, WedZtyle was created to give couples a valuable tool to guide them in planning their special day. 

We recognise that couples have different needs. What we offer is an individualised approach that allows couples to choose what is most important to them.

 

© 2022 WedZtyle. All Rights Reserved.

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