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

by WedZtyle

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-Orange, Yellow-Orange, Yellow-Green, Blue-Green, Blue–Violet, Red–Violet (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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How To Choose the Right Shapewear.

by WedZtyle

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.

Wedztyle Planner: If you’re currently planning your wedding and are feeling stressed out by… well, everything, then you’ll love WedZtyle’s eBook. This comprehensive eBook has absolutely everything you need to feel on top of the wedding planning process and host a fun-filled, dreamy wedding.  wedztyle.com

Wedztyle Wedding Channel: Free wedding planning videos created to help you plan the perfect wedding. These videos are a perfect compliment to our popular wedding planner. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqOO9RjcYNdVl6cICFDCDcA/

Main Image: Spanx

Say Yes to the right Wedding Dress.

by WedZtyle

Ladies, the time has come to say yes to the right dress. A wedding dress is a piece of artwork designed for the bride to make her partner and all guests gasp when she walks in. Like any fashion statement piece, confidence is critical. How the dress fits in with all the other elements such as hair, make-up, etc. creates the wow, not the price tag. We at Wedztyle feel that looking for a wedding dress should be a joyful experience as this is a time for the bride to experiment with different styles, shades of white and materials.

Before we explore the different types of dress, I would like to touch on body shape balance. Despite if a bride is a bottom or top-heavy, has a narrow waist or wide hips, there needs to be a body shape balance between the upper torso, and legs. By creating vertical balance, the body looks in proportion, so the ‘good’ bits stand out, and the ‘not so good’ bits are hidden. However any dress can be the right dress, regardless of recommendations, your dress should make you feel special and beautiful.

Vertical Body Balance

Image: Pinterest

In essence, the primary axis (legs) and the secondary axis (upper torso) should be in balance when wearing any outfit. There are four main body types.

Images: Pinterest

Based on a vertical body balance, as a guide, a triangle body shape should balance out their shoulders to their hips. Dresses can include a boat or scoop neckline, even a strapless. A straight A-line, empire, or a gown style gown would create the right proportions.

An hourglass body shape would look fabulous in a dress that accentuates their tiny waste such as a ball gown or A-line. Any wedding dress that frames or flares from the waist will create that nice vertical body balance. A nicely fitted jumpsuit pinched at the waist will look stunning.

 A cone body shape needs to find balance on the lower half of their body. A wedding dress that flares from the knee would look amazing on this type of body shape. Gowns like a mermaid, trumpet even strapless would work well.

As for a rectangular body, the ideal type of dresses would be A-line, empire, and drop-waist. A suit with a longer jacket that is fitted would look fabulous.

Styles of Wedding Dresses

The Ballgown

For brides wanting a princess look, the ballgown is for you. The style of the dress tends to be fitted at the waist with a full skirt. The bodice can be strapless, with straps, or halter style. Perfect for all body types.

Source: Elie Saab

The Trumpet

The style of the Trumpet gown is similar to a mermaid style as it hugs the body in the right places and gradually flares outwards. The trumpet flare begins in the mid-thigh area. The stylishness is ideal for hourglass and petite figures. For our pear and apple figured brides, the style does accentuate the stomach and hip area. Wearing great shapewear will slim down those areas.

Source: Elie Saab

Mermaid

Over the years the mermaid style dress of dress has increased in popularity. The design hugs close to the body, flares at or below the knee, creating a mermaid-like tail. These dresses tend to be harder to move around in than the trumpet, so maybe think about having a different dress for the reception so you can move around more easily. This type of style suits the hourglass-shaped ladies but once again, if you have your heart set on this one shapewear is the key.

Source: Berta

A-Line

The A-line gown is a popular style of dress which is a standard go-to for many brides.  Although it is similar to the ballgown with its fitted bodice, the A-line gown skirt has more flow less fullness. This gown suits all body types.  The stylishness of the dress is a good option for bridesmaids with different body shapes.

Source: Oscar De La Renta

Modified A-Line Gown

This gown is a modified version of the A-line dress. The style is fitted through the bodice and the hip, flaring to the hem forming an A-Shape. Flattering design for shapely women.  A belt will look amazing with this dress, again bringing in the waist to give it a different look.

Source: Anna Campbell Bridal

Sheath

This dress, referred to as the column style, is straight down from the hip to the hem with little or no flare.  Sometimes a slight flare can be added tapering at the heals—an ideal gown for petite and hourglass-shaped women, especially taller women.

Source: Toni Maticevski

Empire Dress

This gown is fabulous for flaunting your curves. The dress has a fitted bodice ending just below the bust, giving a high-waisted appearance. It has a long gathered skirt which is loosely fitted but skims the body—a perfect style for diamond and pear-shaped and pregnant women.

Source: Vera Wang

Tea Length

The tea-length style was trendy in the 1950s and is loved by vintage brides. The stylishness is an  A-line or ballgown shape with a shorter hemline ending right below the knee. Perfect for many body types.

Source: Naeem Khan Bride

Jumpsuit

The jumpsuit has gained popularity over the past years. Designers add their spin on the jumpsuit to make sure it has enough bling to make it the perfect choice. It is an ideal option to change into after the ceremony as you can move around in it better at the reception. Great for all body types.

Source: Jenny Packham

The Suit

The white suit has gained momentum within the last couple of years, especially for the couples that have chosen to elope during COVID19 pandemic.  As there are different styles of suits, choose one that will compliment your body shape. Do not be afraid to add some bling. Pair the suit with accessories such as jewellery, headpiece, and flowers.

Source: Pinterest

No matter what style of wedding dress you choose, wear it with confidence. Keep in mind what overall look you want to achieve and use this as a guide. Also, think about your vertical body shape to your body type as this will keep your proportions intact.

Happy hunting fellow Wedztyle brides.

Main Image: Dior

How to Choose your perfect Wedding Day Perfume Scent.

by WedZtyle

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

Stunning Wedding Makeup Styles.

by Fay Kanellos

When I was a bride, I chose my makeup look to compliment my dress, hair, and accessories. It was essential to me as it completed my look. I did not research current makeup trends as I knew what I wanted. I went for a heavier smoky eye paired with a light lipstick colour. I wanted my eyes to pop.

I used a makeup artist because I wanted someone who could offer me high quality, pigmented brand of makeup and understood my vision. Not everyone can afford a makeup artist and that is perfectly fine. Whether you and your bridal party do your own makeup, or you engage in a makeup artist, keep the look consistent meaning that the theme is running through each person. And of course, the face must be balanced.

For those brides who are unsure of their makeup style, despite using a makeup artist or doing it yourself, I am going to share various alluring looks that are currently trending and some classics and some not so.

THE CLASSIC LOOK.

Classic bridal makeup is subtle, timeless, and tasteful. Below are images that are ‘classic’. Note the light eyeshadow look, pale cheeks, and soft color lipstick. The face needs to be balanced to create that natural look.

Images: Pinterest.com

When wearing a nude lipstick, you cannot go wrong. It compliments all eye makeup looks. However, to pull it off, choose a nude based lipstick that matches your undertone and lip pigment.

Image: Pinterest.com

The classic red lips. My personal favourite. It never goes out of style and always makes a statement. If this look is what you are after, invest in a high-quality, pigmented red lipstick.

TRADITIONAL LOOKS

Images : Pinterest.com

Do not be afraid to embrace your cultural looks. This makes you unique so wear the look with the pride.

CURRENT WEDDING MAKEUP TRENDS

A current wedding makeup trend is subjective. Your wedding makeup must instil confidence within yourself. However, I feel as a Wedztyler; brides should be aware of what is trending and decide for themselves.

Through my research, THE MINIMALIST LOOK is the running theme. This look involves glowing skin, barely-there foundation, and pale lips.

Image: Pinterest.com

Along with this look – pale painted nails, loose textured hair, even braided suits the minimalist look.

For those wanting more of a vibrant look, “chic” shimmer eyeshadow, black eyeliner, brushed eyebrows, dark eyes, eyelash extensions, and bold lips also make a mention.

Shimmer, Bold Lips, Dark eyes, black eyeliner

Each of the looks are alluring and elegant. The common theme is balancing the makeup from the eyes to the cheeks to the lips. The makeup should tell the story of your look. Pair this with the right hairstyle, nail paint and accessories.

Do not be afraid to experiment. Below are a couple of looks embracing dramatic eyes. Although these are not trending, they are breathtaking.

Image: Pinterest.com

BRIDESMAIDS AND MOTHER OF THE BRIDE

No fixed rule. Depends on the look. Whether it is soft, natural, or bold, it should complement the bride’s makeup. Like the bride, the face needs to balance and suit the dress, hair, nail paint and accessories.

Mother of the bride tend to go for a natural look. Again, the style of makeup is dependant on their look.

Whether you engage a makeup artist or do it yourself, the style of makeup chosen should create a visual appeal which embraces the personality of the person wearing it. I did not choose a classic look, yet it worked for me as it embraced my personality, and the secret of perfectly flawed makeup is good skin. Your skin is a canvas so ensure that the skin is exfoliated, hydrated, and your makeup will look FABULOUS.

DAY TO NIGHT

A personal preference. I left my makeup as it was and touched it up when the evening came. For those who do want to change it up a bit, play around with your lipstick. For example, if you are wearing nude shade, change it to a brighter shade of lipstick. Or if you are already wearing a bold colour, change the tone (hot pink to red or a different shade of red). Another option would also be to change the blush tone to suit the change in lipstick colour. Changing your lipstick and blush shade is an easy and inexpensive method of changing your look. No makeup artist required.

EMERGENCY KIT

Weddings are long days. The wedding party needs to maintain its sleek look from morning until evening. For the bride and her party, this means keeping their makeup looking fresh. 

Survival Tips:

  1. Lipstick and liner – a must. If using a makeup artist, ask her to use your lipstick and liner. I did this, and it kept my lips looking fabulous. 
  2. Blotting Paper – take away that shine
  3. Mascara and eyeliner – keep your eyes fresh. Those with eyelash extensions need not worry about this.
  4. Foundation, concealer, and powder to keep your face looking amazing
  5. Bronzer and blush – throughout the day, these will fade

To download our wedding planner go to www.wedztyle.com

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

by Fay Kanellos

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 Insurance is it worth it?

by Fay Kanellos

Researching for this blog, I wanted to gain an understanding of wedding insurance. What are companies offering and if it is, in fact, worth it for couples? The recent COVID19 outbreak has meant postponing or cancelling upcoming weddings, resulting in couples losing deposits and payments across various vendors because the COVID19 virus is uninsurable.

This leaves us to wonder, how can we be covered if the unexpected were to happen?

The average cost of a wedding in the UK 31,974 pounds, $33,391 in the USA and $36,000 in Australia; therefore, more couples are considering wedding insurance to protect them against any unforeseeable mishaps financially.

Image by Samanth Gades unsplash

The type of cover offered.

Like all insurance policies, various level of cover is offered depending on the cost of the wedding. In Australia, prices can range from $200 standard cover to $1300 for premium. Most insurance covers the total budget of your wedding e.g. if your wedding budget is $8000.00, purchase the one that will cover that amount.

  • Standard cover – approx. $200-250 for total budget cover between $5,000-$8,000
  • Intermediate – approx. $400-$900 for total budget cover between $16,000 – $35,000
  • Premium – approx. $1100-$1300 for total budget cover between $75,000+

Premiums are higher for destination weddings. I recommend that you purchase insurance with companies that specialise in destination weddings rather than local weddings to get the most coverage.

The type of cover chosen should be in line with the size of the wedding and the costs associated. Compare policies to make sure you are covered accordingly.  

The policy should begin 30 days after purchase, with a 14-day cooling-off period.

Image by Nathan Dumlao unsplash

What your insurance needs to cover:

When deciding on the type of cover, my recommendation is to ensure the following is included:

  • Wedding deposits and pre-payments – when you need to cancel, reschedule or postpone your wedding due to specific events
  • Protection against vendors and supplier breakdown
  • Marquee and equipment damage
  • Wedding rings – although these can be insured under your home and contents
  • Wedding gifts – what is the minimum and maximum value that can be insured
  • Wedding attire
  • Wedding transportation
  • Illness, death
  • Extreme weather – storms, tornados
  • Personal Liability – if your guests cause personal injury to a third party or damage to their property.
  • Destination weddings – what is covered and what countries are covered.
  • When the claim begins – this is usually 30 days after you purchase the cover and what the recommended period of cover is
  • What the coverage extends to – family members as they can also contribute to the wedding
  • Any value-added services that you will need for your wedding
  • Number of guests that are covered in the policy should an accident occurs
  • Type of venue, as some venues require you to have insurance before you book with them.
  • Overseas cover including medical emergency and hospital

What you are not covered for:

  • Cancellation due to weather that is not extreme
  • Change of heart
  • Switching vendors after a deposit were paid
  • Claims outside your country – I recommend looking at insurance companies that specialize in Destination Weddings
  • Any issues relating to travel bans, flight cancellations, government acts, regulations and bans on public gatherings
  • Pandemics such as COVID19
Image by Fabio Alves unsplash

Before you purchase:

  • Speak to your vendors and see what they offer via their insurance company, especially for the venue, caters, and wedding planners. Always read the fine print on their contracts. Do not sign if you are uncomfortable with their terms. It has to work for you.
  • Look at your home insurance, as you can be covered on certain aspects of your wedding e.g. wedding rings, travel insurance, etc… This way you can determine what type of cover you can purchase.
  • Consider which plan best suits your wedding needs. Do not purchase a policy based on price. Focus on what is and is not covered.
  • Read the terms and conditions of each insurance company and most importantly do your research.

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Just Engaged? Tips On Planning A Stress-free Wedding

by WedZtyle

 

Congratulations your getting married! After the engagement shock has worn off, it is time to start making some serious decisions in achieving your dream wedding. Most brides know the type of wedding they want whilst other do not. Then there is knowing what is on trend.

Wedztyle have done some research for you on what is currently trending and will share some tips that can make planning your special day as stress free as possible.

 

Set The Date

Setting the date is not a easy task. There are many factors that needs to be considered. What type of wedding do you want? A spring or summer wedding? Is there a special date you have in mind. Are there any conflicting dates such as another friends wedding, or a special event. Are family coming over from overseas, are they able to travel on that date.  The list is endless. Sending out save the date cards are a great way of letting your guests know in advance that you have set the date and that the formal invitations will follow.

 

SONY DSC

 

Create A Wedding Checklist

Weddings are a big event for anyone to plan. Setting a solid checklist will allow you to organise everything by setting firm dates and deadlines not only for yourself, but also for your family and bridal party. It will also act as a guide of prioritising what is important, what is not. A wedding checklist gives you complete control over your wedding. We recommend creating one main checklist outlining what needs to be done within a 12 month timeline, along with a checklist for the actual wedding day. Too many checklists will cause confusion and unnecessary stress for yourself and the people around you.

wedding checklist image 2

 

Choosing Your Style And Location

Before you book your venue, try on a wedding dress, you must decide what type of style and vibe you want to create for your day. We all have an idea of what type of wedding we want and visualising your day will help you in deciding.  Have you always visualised yourself walking barefoot on a beach, in a beautiful garden or in an old church? Do you want it to be a traditional wedding, a vintage wedding or rustic wedding? A large or small wedding with only close family and friends. Is it going to be a destination wedding, and if so what type? What we love are vision boards. These allow you to take some inspiration from different weddings, and help you create your perfect day; not to mention staying on budget.

 

Images supplies by Dreamingtree //www.facebook.com/dreamingtree.oz

 

Set a Budget

Setting a budget is one of the most important part of planning any event especially a wedding. The average Australian wedding costs $40,000.00. Keeping to your budget will allow you to still have your dream wedding without making you broke. A budget checklist that you can cross reference against your wedding checklist will keep you as close to your budget as possible.

budget image

 

 

Choose Your Wedding Party

How many bridesmaids are too many? How big of a wedding party do you really need? It all depends of the type of wedding your having, and the budget that you have allocated. The trend these days is for bridesmaids to contribute to their shoes and dress, while the bride will pay for the makeup and hair on the day. If your thinking of providing everything for your bridesmaids then this needs to be factored into your budget.  Costs can creep up quite easily so you need to stay on track!!

Another trend is for bridesmaids not to wear the identical dresses but keeping to the same or similar colour scheme. This allows your bridesmaids to wear dresses that suits their body shape. The groomsmen can wear the same suits with the matching colour scheme running through the ties or the cravats.

Bride:bridesmaides

Image copied from Pinterest, coolbridedress.com

 

 

Create Your Guest List

Depending on your cultural background, the size of your guest list will vary from wedding to wedding. I am from a European background therefore I had to invite people that I personally didn’t know. All these people were friends of my parents and in laws. Times have changed. Creating your guest list requires quite a bit of thinking. We all don’t want to offend people, but sometimes we have no choice. We recommend by firstly deciding on a preliminary number of guests you want to invite. Then begin your invite list with immediate family members, followed by your closest friends. From here, then you can play around with the invitees. Be firm with your guest list, the more people you have the more you will go over your budget. This might mean cutting things out of your wedding or compromising on the things you really want.

 

vision board 3

Image supplied dreamingtree www.facebook.com/dreamingtree.oz

 

Book a Venue

Choosing the venue is an important step. The venue is an important part of your wedding as it ties into your wedding theme. Most couples will book the venue before the church/wedding ceremony site as sometimes the most popular venues are booked 12-18 months in advance. What to look for in a venue:

1. Do they cater for the amount of guest I have?

2. Do they have the correct facilities for my guests?

3. Do they supply an events manager to help you with your vision?

4. Cost per person?

5. Is the food and alcohol a set price or are they seperate?

6. Do they cater for all dietary requirements?

dreamtree 11

Image supplied by Dreamingtree www.facebook.com./dreamingtree.oz

 

Choose Your Suppliers

When choosing your suppliers, make sure you have everything written down, especially pricing that has been negotiated between the parties. I have heard of some horror stories of the wedding cake was completely different to what was ordered, or the photographs were not what you had asked for. These are our tips when choosing a supplier:

1. Make sure you have everything written down and signed by both parties. Include some images of what you want and give them a copy.

2. Communications with your suppliers is key, as this will ensure everyone is on the same page and there is no room for misunderstanding.

3. When ordering your cake/ food, make sure they are able to cater for anyone with dietary requirements. Supply a clear list of your guest with dietary requirements and were they will be seated to the venue.

4. Take photos of your hair and make-up trails to make sure your happy with what you have chosen. This will also help your hairdresser and makeup artist remember what was discussed. Any changes, document them. Trial two weeks prior your wedding.

5. Make sure that you have your final wedding dress fitting approx two weeks before the wedding. This will allow for any changes and most importantly if the dress requires dry cleaning.

6. Contact all your suppliers one month and two weeks prior your wedding to confirm everything is track and if changes need to be made this is the time to do it. Give all your suppliers a running sheet of the day so they know what is required from them on the day.

fay cake

Image Supplied by Cakes By Fay K https://www.facebook.com/Cakes-By-Fay-K-187902414572836/

 

Feature imaged copied from Pinterest etsy.com 

14 Days of Whitening – The Final Results

by WedZtyle

It has come to the end of the 14 day in-house whitening experiment the results have been mixed. I have noticed a significant difference with the two participants that used the hydrogen peroxide, while the other two not as a significant difference.

 

SDI Polalunimate

You can see from the images, there has been a change in the tooth colour. The participant has gone down a shade for when they first began treatment. Although the product did create sensitivity, the participant constantly used the Ivoclar Vivadent Fluor gel and was able to continue the experiment. The participant will continue using the whitening pen once a week to maintain her results.

Final blog 3

Participant 1

OralB Whitestrips

There has also been a difference with the use of the whitestrips. This participant is a smoker and you can see from the first photo she has whitened her teeth by a shade. The whitestrips are easy to use, and she highly recommends this product. She will be using this product again.

Participant 3 blog 3

Participant 2

 

Carbon Coco

The participant has notice the removal of the surface stains from her teeth. Although it was abrasive and made her gums bleed, she recommends using the Ivoclar Vivadent Cervitec gel twice a day if you experience sore gums. This product didn’t whiten the teeth as promised, but does clean well.

 

Paticipant 2 blog 3

Participant 3

 

 

Bi-Carb Soda

This participant noticed a small difference to her teeth. It has removed some of the surface stains of her teeth, but wont be doing this treatment again.

Participant 4 blog 4

Participant 4

 

To further cement my findings, I decided to get professional advised from a dentist Dr Stephen Vouliotis, who is situated in Clifton Hill Melbourne. Dr Vouliotis likened the structure of enamel to spaghetti strands and for any bleaching product to penetrate within those strands requires some form of peroxide. The peroxide requires 5 to 10 mins to penetrate into the enamel then the bleaching process begins. In order to gain results, you will need sufficient concentration of peroxide for a specified time. The longer you leave the product the more the teeth with whiten.  Most companies will have either 6% hydrogen peroxide or 18% carbamide peroxide, which is the most effective in-house whitening you can do without getting if done by a dentist.

Dr Vouliotis also states products containing natural ingredients like charcoal or Bi-Carb, only removes superficial loose plaque and tooth stains that have accumulated on the surface of the enamel. Due to the abrasive nature of the products they only reveal the current shade of the tooth bellow and it doesn’t alter the colour in any form. Dr Vouliotis recommends if you are prone to sensitivity when doing any whitening products to consult your dentist.  They will advise you on the right pre-treatments for you before beginning any bleaching product.

I have presented a few options for in-house whitening treatments. Whichever method you choose I advise that you research the product. I also advise that you prepare your teeth beforehand with a fluoride treatment and follow the instructions and precautions that have been set out by each company. As Dr Vouliotis advised please see your dentist before any treatment or if you’re unsure the product chosen is for you.

 

 

Feature Image supplied By John Tsatalios at Dreamingtree photography facebook.com/dreamingtree.oz

Dr Stephen Vouliotis – 264 Queens Parade, Fitzroy North Victoria 03-94891891

The Quest for “Straighter” Hair

by WedZtyle

I have thick curly frizzy hair. For those who have similar hair to me, you will know how difficult it is to maintain. For years, I tried effortlessly to tame my hair, even taking an iron to it. It would take me an hour to straighten my hair yet it never looked smooth, always frizzy. And humid weather was my worst enemy.

Back in 2002, I was elated to learn that a product existed to permanently straighten hair. Known as Japanese Straightening, aka Thermal Ionic Hair Straightening. The product thermally restructures the hair from curly to permanently straight. The thermal ionic system actually flattens the hair cuticle layer to produce permanently straight hair. The hair remains straight until it is cut off.

conair-one-n-only-thermal-ionic-permanent-hair-straightener-202
Thermal Ionic

Amazing results, my hair was dead straight with no frizz. I remember when I first got it done, I was ecstatic. My hair behaved as if I was born with straight hair. However, I could not curl it or add any body to it. The curl was gone. As my hair grew, the roots were curly even though the length of my hair was straight. This meant that I had to continuously straighten the roots which I did once a year.

The draw back with this treatment is that it is a very lengthy process, even when you get the regrowth done. As the hairdresser has to meticulously iron an inch of hair at a time, it can take anywhere between 4 to 6 hours and the cost ranges from $450 to $650. Although, I liked my hair straight, I wanted body in it. I also got tired of spending 4.5 hours in the salon only to straighten 4 inches of hair along with the inconvenience of not being able to tie or pin it up or wash it for 72 hours. And the not to mention the cost of getting this procedure done.

smooth-hair
Thermal Ionic Before and After Treatment

It was time for a change. Being a creature of habit, it took me awhile to grasp the concept of a Brazilian Keratin Straightening Treatment. Basically, it is a semi-permanent hair straightening method where they infuse liquid keratin and a preservative solution into the hair with a hair iron. It considerably relaxes the curl and eliminates frizz. Over a period of 3-6 months, the hair goes back to its original way.

I took the plunge a few months back. The hairdresser used Alfaparf Lisse design express formula. I was very skeptical of the results. It used a mousse type application and the processes was different to what I was used to. With the Thermal ionic, after thermally reconstructing the hair using an iron, a neutralizer is added to permanently lock the hair in a pin straight look. With the Brazilian treatment, once the product is ironed into your hair, it is done. It takes less time and a quarter of the cost.

alfaparf_milano_lisse_kit[1]
Alfaparf Lisse Keratin Therapy
With much apprehension, I washed my hair and hoped for the best. It was a different outcome to the thermal ionic straightening process. My hair was not dead straight but my curl definitely relaxed and the frizz disappeared. My hair had a nice shine through and it felt soft and conditioned. The advantages for me is that with the Brazilian treatment, my hair has body in it. And there is no curly regrowth, easy to straighten and no frizz.

The disadvantage for me is that because it is not straight I actually now have to take to the hair dryer and iron to straighten my hair. Whereas with the other treatment, no iron was required until the regrowth appeared.

LisseDesign_model
Alfaparf Lisse – Before and After Treatment

The jury is still out on this one for me. Not sure which method of straightening treatment I prefer as the outcomes are completely different. For now, I will continue with the Brazilian Keratin Treatment as I like that I can add body and movement to my hair yet still be able to easily manage my curls.

In conclusion, for those who are skeptical like I was or considering this, my advice will be choose the treatment type that best suits your needs. Choosing the right hairdresser will also determine the result you get so don’t be afraid to ask questions.

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