Planning

Lack Wedding Gift Ideas? These List Is All You Need To Get Started

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If you are having problems thinking of a gift for a couple who’s about to wed, you need not bother because we got you.

Gifting newly weds can be knotty but it’s not as difficult as you think. Some people are usually careful not to buy gifts that may seem too forward, too cheap etc.

Wedding gifts originated from the notion of a bride price or dowry that was paid to the bride’s family.

It usually included land, animals, money, and other forms of historical wealth. The first recorded dowry was exchanged in 3,000 B.C.

Below are a few ideas that would help you if you are faced with the challenge of gifting newly weds.

1. Kitchenware

These are usually not so high priced and will go a long way to help the bride out as she is probably starting out her life and needs all the help she can get.

2. Home Appliances

Even if the kids are yet on their way, this would ease the couple’s stress.

3. Paintings

These are amazing because they subtly send deep and soulful messages and beautify their home too.

4. Books

Especially books that are likely to aid in personal growth both as individuals and a couple.

5. Personalized Items

Gifting the couple with personalized items is quite endearing like throw pillows, mugs, frames and even T-shirts.

6. Baby Essentials

These signify that you actually do wish them a fruitful marriage.

Hopefully this cures you of your gift worries…what’s more? The couple can create a gift registry here  and share with guests so they can contribute collectively and get them gifts of their choice with ease.

Photo Credit: OrganicWedding, UniqueWeddingGifts

Planning

Here’s What You Should Ask Your Prospective Wedding DJ

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No ceremony can ever be complete without good music and that’s where an excellent DJ comes in.

According to Wikipedia, a disc jockey, often abbreviated as DJ, is a person who plays existing recorded music for a live audience.

Hiring a good DJ is just as tricky as hiring any other vendor for your wedding. Here are essential questions you are expected to ask before engaging them according to TheSpruce.

1. Can I meet the person who will actually work at my event before we sign a contract?

If you’re working with a DJ company who employs several different DJs, you’ll definitely want to make sure you’re comfortable with the actual person who’ll be at your reception. Do they seem cool, fun, and also respectful?

Are they listening to the questions you’re asking, and giving you thoughtful responses? Do they seem like someone you could have a fun time with?

2.Will you work with my playlist and my do-not-play list?
Wedding DJs love to have autonomy and play whatever they want. Since it’s your wedding, you should have input about what gets played and what doesn’t.
If you have some “deal breaker” songs, be sure to share them with your potential DJ and make sure he or she understands your wishes.

3. Will your equipment allow you to mix one song into another so that there are no breaks in between songs?
One of the top reasons to hire a wedding DJ rather than just using an iPod is that they should be able to provide a seamless flow of music. If they can’t, it’s time to look elsewhere.

4. Will you take breaks? If so, what happens during the breaks?
Again, unlike a band or an iPod, a DJ should be able to have a seamless flow of music with no breaks.

5. Will you take requests during the wedding?
Some wedding DJs love requests, while others don’t like having to hunt for an obscure song or interrupting their playlist.

6. How many weddings do you DJ each year? Will you have another event on the same day? 
Since DJs often work corporate events, bars and birthday parties, you want to make sure he or she is comfortable with weddings and the higher level of sophistication required.

You’ll also want to make sure there aren’t any possible scheduling conflicts as a result of having multiple events booked for the same day.

7. Have you worked at our reception site before?
If he or she already knows the setup and staff there, it can make things more seamless on the day of the wedding.

It’s not necessary, but it’s nice to have that reassurance that your wedding DJ is familiar with the layout and setup.

8. What sort of equipment do you use? Do your prices include the sound system, speakers, wireless microphone for the toasts, etc?
You’ll want to make sure he or she has the necessary equipment required to fill your event space with sound.

Each of these extras can add up quickly. Your event space may already have them available, but it’s good to have backups in case of equipment failure.

9. What do you do if nobody is dancing?
If for any reason your guests aren’t feeling the musical selections, how does the DJ handle it?

10. How current is your music collection? 
Does he or she have access to the newest music? Do you want the newest pop hit played at your reception or do you just want to stick to your old favorites?

11. What if we really want to hear songs that aren’t in your music collection?
If for some reason the DJ doesn’t have some music or songs that you really love, will he be able to acquire it or is that not possible?

12. Will you advertise your services to our guests? Will you be discrete?
Your wedding is a job, not a networking opportunity. You want to make sure the DJ you’re working with doesn’t seem sleazy or slimy, or like he’ll be looking for his next job while in the middle of working your wedding.

13. What do you wear as a wedding DJ?
You’ll want to ensure that your wedding DJ is dressed appropriately for the formality of your big day.

14. Can I see a video of you playing at a wedding?
Ask to see footage of your DJ working at a wedding so you can get a feel for his or her style, personality, and character.

Answers to the above questions would let you know if you are on the right path as regards hiring a suitable DJ for your wedding.

Photo Credit: TheSpruce, Naija DJ Pool

Planning

8 Questions You Should Ask Before Hiring A Caterer For Your Wedding

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Catering is an integral part of any ceremony especially a Nigerian wedding. In all you do, ensure your catering is topnotch or assign a trusted person to do so.

 

Here are a few relevant questions you need to ask before hiring any caterer.

1. Are you booked on my wedding date?

If the caterer is not available on your date, it’s a no-NO.

2. Have you ever worked at my venue before?

Some venues only allow approved caterers to work on their premises.  Whether or not that’s the case, it’s a good idea to find a caterer who is comfortable at your venue, though not a deal-breaker.

3.  Can I take a look at a sample menu?

Start by telling the caterer about your wedding – your style, the guest count, how you visualize the food, etc. and ask to see a menu from a wedding that’s similar. You’ll get a sense if you and the caterer are on the same page in terms of style.

4. Do you allow couples to customize their menus at all?

If you have specific requests or dietary restrictions, it’s important to find a caterer that’s flexible. Find out if the caterer would be open to preparing family favorites, if that’s important to you.

5. Will there be a pre-wedding tasting?

If so, is there a fee involved? Having a pre-wedding tasting is an important part of the planning process. Find out how the caterer’s tastings work – are they done before or after the contract is signed? What is included?

6. Do you provide rentals like tables, chairs, linens, etc.?

If the answer is no, your venue should be able to assist you with finding a rental company to work with.

7. What’s your typical ratio of servers to guests?

This depends on if you’d having a buffet or sit-down dinner. Usually sit-down dinners will have around a one server to 20 guest ratio or less, while for a buffet the guest count will be higher.

8. Who will be on site on my wedding day?

You’ll want to be sure that you meet the coordinator who will be at your wedding beforehand.

Whatever you do, make sure everything is 95% in order in the catering department.

Photo Credit: Cruise Africa, Bella Naija

Planning

7 Major Questions To Ask Your Photographer Ahead Of Your Wedding

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Like it or not, photographers are key people on your wedding day because their chief duty is to capture your best and favourite moments in the most fascinating way.

After making your choice of wedding photographer(s), it is vital that you ask a few necessary questions before fully engaging their services.

Below are questions you should not miss:

1. Will You Be Available On The Wedding Date?

You have to be sure whoever you are booking to shoot on your big day is available on that day or members of his/her team are, in that case it is important to have this conversation with the entire team.

2. Do You Have Any Other Wedding On This Date?

This is also important because you would not want a photographer and  his team bolting away 45 minutes into your wedding because they have another appointment.

3. How Long Have You Been Shooting Weddings?

The above question is in no way trying to undermine the skills of the photographer but it pays to know how much experience the person you are working with has.

4. Can You Show Me A Gallery Of Weddings You Have Shot?

Having a glimpse of what kind of shots the photographer you are about to hire takes should even be your topmost priority.

5. How Much Do You Charge For Various Packages?

Knowing the prices for each of the photographer’s packages will help you know which to settle for as regards to your budget. It is also wise to ask if they take installment payments and the percentages per installment.

6. What Will You And Your Team Wear?

Having the photographer and his/her team blend into your colour schemes for the day is not a bad idea.

7. Will My Wedding Photos Be Published On Any Blog?

If you are one for privacy, expressly state it to the photographer at this point to avoid any hassles later.

Being at ease with your wedding photographer is also a thing. Make sure you are comfortable with whoever you finally choose to work with.

Photo Credit: Atilary (via Love Weddings) & Animazionemusicamatrimonio

Planning

How To Kill Cold Feet On/Before Your Wedding Day

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You have been looking forward to your wedding for a while now but as the wedding date draws near, you begin to have second thoughts about it. Any conversation about the wedding no longer excites you instead it frightens you.

Thoughts of walking down the aisle with different pairs of eyes watching makes you want to puke. It’s okay. You do not hate your partner and you are not an alien. You are just nervous.

Here are a few tips that can help you:

1. Know Your Worries

Like the saying goes, there’s no smoke without fire. Figure out your major concerns or what you could possibly worry about.

2. Stay Positive

If you are feeling down, do not be around people who will add fuel to the already burning fire. Speak positively regardless of how you feel deep down and talk to positive minded people.

3. Be Vocal

Whatever fears you may have, talk about it with trustworthy and supportive people. It will go a long way.

4. Pay Attention To Your Breathing

Focus on your breath, and in particular, your diaphragm. And become calm – yoga is a brilliant way to learn body awareness, build stamina to stress and remain flexible, emotionally and physically.

5. Think Of Your Partner

Recall why you made this decision in the first place. Remind yourself of all the things that make your partner awesome.

6. Rehearse Mentally

Walk through what will happen on the day, from beginning to end in your mind. Let your primary focus be on your role.

7. Have Fun

Take nothing personal and have as much fun as you can before and on your big day.

It’s not awkward that you feel tensed or anxious after-all. You are moving into an entirely different phase of your life. Regardless, live, love, laugh and bask in the euphoria of being a newly wed.

Photo Credit: InsideWeddings, LoveWeddings, BridalMusings

Planning

Lipstick Shades That Will Make You Glow On Your Wedding

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Many colors and types of lipstick exist. As with most other types of makeup, lipstick is typically, but not exclusively, worn by women. Some lipsticks are also lip balms to add color and hydration.

Lipsticks like accessories and shoes are a way to make a statement depending on which and how you wear them.

Here are a few you might want to try on your big day.

1. Coral Pink

Coral is a reddish or pinkish shade of orange. The color is named after the sea animal also called corals. It gives a totally surreal look.

2. Red

Red is the color of fire and blood, so it is associated with energy, war, danger, strength, power, determination as well as passion, desire, and love. Red is a very emotionally intense color. This is just right for a wedding.

3. Tangerine

Tangerine is an orange color hue used to give the impression of the tangerine fruit. It comes across as breezy but sexy.

4. Fuschia

Fuschia which is one of the shades of pink. It symbolises softness and feminity. What better shade would you rather rock on your wedding?

5. Violet

The color purple is often associated with royalty, nobility, luxury, power, and ambition. Every bride wants to look like royalty on their wedding.

Colours are a thing on your wedding day so is your lipstick shade. Ensure that you pick the shade that suits you well.

Photo Credit: Brides.com, stylecraze, limecrime

Planning

These 5 Tips Will Come In Handy If Your Ex Shows Up At Your Wedding

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Ex at your wedding??? This is like the most tricky thing ever but not all exes are enemies. Life is funny and somehow you may be faced with the decision of whether he/she shows up at your wedding.

If you have to deal with the latter, these 5 tips would help you deal with the situation.

1. Inform Your Spouse

Ensure that you inform your spouse if for any reason your ex shows up at your wedding.

2. Be Calm

If the relationship probably did not end well, do not fret if they show up at your wedding. Keep calm.

3. Be Courteous

Say hi to them with confidence if the situation arises and move on. You don’t need anybody ruining your big day.

4. Don’t Be Too Extra

After pleasantries, you don’t have to go overboard by introducing him/her to friends and family or try hard to make small talk.

5. Gratitude

It’s only appropriate that you show gratitude to those who graced your wedding. Even your ex? Especially your ex.

Your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life, if it can be helped, don’t let anything or anyone ruin your big day.

Photo Credit: Essence

Planning

You Should Avoid These 7 Foods A Night Before Your Wedding

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‘The wedding diet’ is as real as rain and also very important. You would not want an about-to-be-married you running down the aisle as a result of stomach upset or the like.

In a bid to avoid any drama between you and your stomach, you should be mindful of the meals you have a few days or a night before your wedding

Here are 7 meals you should stay away from ahead of your big day:

1. Junk Food

Apart from trying to banish food-induced baby bumps, you never can tell when junk food might upset your stomach. It is better to be safe than sorry.

2. Beans

Bacteria goes to work breaking down the food and causing serious amounts of gas and bloating when you eat beans. It’s wise to stay off this a night before your wedding.

3. Artificial Sweeteners

These can be referred to as ‘proxy’ sweeteners and are a no – no. Most times, they contain sugar alcohol, which can cause bloating. It’s best to cut down on sugar altogether.

4.  Salt

Salt causes the body to retain water and bloat around the mid-section. You may want to avoid meals with too much salt at this time.

5. Diary Products

Dairy is made up of an enzyme called lactase, which is responsible for lactose intolerance in 75% of the world’s population. The digestive system struggles to break down dairy, and indigestion causes gas and bloating. If you don’t want to feel stuffed on your day, avoid dairy products.

6. Soda

Carbon dioxide is the root cause of the bubbles found in soda, beer and champagne. Taking fizzy/soda drinks means ingesting those gases, which cause bloating and expansion around your mid-section.

7. Gum

No one would have guessed, right? A lot of chewing gums use sugar alcohols in production. As with artificial sweeteners, sugar alcohols cause bloating – furthermore, single stick of gum can pack five calories and up to six grams of sugar.

You may be tempted to want to take some of these before your big day but you definitely do not want to feel any sort of discomfort on your wedding day. Replace fizzy drinks with water and avoid the rest of the above for a couple of days and you will be just fine!

Photo Credit: Cherbs.org

Planning

What We Hate About Arranged Marriages

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An arranged marriage is a type of marital union where the bride and groom are selected by their families. Sometimes, a professional matchmaker may be used.

Arranged marriage has its pros and cons like every other thing in life but there are a lot of things that couples are deprived of when it seems like they were just roped in.

Here are a few reasons why we may frown at arranged marriages.

1. No Dating Quiver

Couples who are often brought together by family members and the like barely enjoy the tremor of a relationship. Most times, dating can be tensed, more like an audition for a life partner.

2. Detachment

Sometimes, you may feel you are preparing for someone else’s wedding ceremony rather than yours. Especially, if the arrangement was sudden.

3. Constant Intrusion By Family

If the marriage was arranged / planned by family, they would most likely intrude for the most part of your relationship with your spouse.

4. Love Is Farfetched

Half the time, love is hardly ever involved and really, no one deserves a loveless marriage.

5. Familiar Stranger

You probably do not really know a lot about your partner as the union was masterminded by both families who feel they know you and your spouse too well. Living together can feel awkward.

Most couples do not enjoy their big day because they are busy trying to work out how they would live with their ‘arranged’ partners forever. However it maybe, marry someone who you are a 100% comfortable with.

* Images are used to depict arranged marriages but the weddings may not be arranged

Photo Credit: Pinterest, Punjabi and Leral.net

 

Planning

5 Most Likely Benefits Of Renting A Wedding Gown

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Getting a choice wedding dress is one of the most tricky decisions a bride can make because she is the cynosure of all eyes on her big day and the gown is obviously the most conspicuous item on her. Hence, picking the right wedding gown is extremely important.

Typically, a lot of brides prefer to make wedding dresses of their choice or buy their preferred dresses but how about renting/hiring one?

Below are 5 advantages of renting a wedding dress:

1. Saves Lots Of Money

This helps you save a good amount of money and except, you have way too much at your disposal, everyone is looking to save as much as they can during wedding preparations.

2. Reduces Stress

You do not have to go through the stress of explaining and trying to fit and adjust wedding dresses. Spotting a gown of your choice easily is a perk.

3. High Priced Dresses

Renting  a wedding dress gives you the privilege of rocking a luxury wedding gown from a designer you probably could not afford – you get to look classy and chic and still save money, smart right?

4. Storage

Most wedding dresses are mountainous after the wedding the problem of where to keep them may surface. If you rent/hire one, all you need to do is return it back to the store.

5. Handy Accessories

When renting, you can also rent accessories, veil and even shoes along with the wedding dress. This slashes your wedding attire trouble by 80%.

Renting a wedding dress also has a few disadvantages, we obviously can’t deny that but the perks attached to hiring one are way too comforting.

Photo Credit: Davina Diaries, StyleNewsNetwork, Blacknuptials