Blog
BIG wedding. small wedding. Something in between…?
Let me tell you how We Do Weddings was born. My husband got dramatically ill just before our wedding. Not “a bit under the weather” ill. Properly, seriously, suddenly ill, the kind that reshapes plans and life, fast. Our big day got scaled back overnight. The guest list shrank to...
Pre-wedding Paperwork – hard to make a punchy title out of that!
You’ve said yes. You’re wearing the ring. You’ve created seventeen Pinterest boards. But hold on, hold on. What pre-wedding paperwork is required to actually get you married!? Here’s the thing: getting legally married in South Africa is genuinely straightforward, once you know what you’re doing. The problem is that for...
Does a good celebrant cost an arm and a leg….
Only if you're not thinking about it right Why experience, energy, and presence are worth every rand, and what you're really paying for when you invest in your ceremony. Let's be honest. Planning a wedding involves a lot of spreadsheet skill. Flowers vs. favours. Band vs. DJ. Open bar vs....
The Bouquet Toss – Let’s get into it!
Way back in medieval Europe, weddings were hands-on. Literally. Guests would try to grab a piece of the bride’s dress, veil… even hair, for good luck. To make a quick (and safe!) getaway, brides started tossing their bouquets at the crowd as a distraction. By the 1800s the tradition had...
‘Tying the Knot’: Some History Behind the Oft’ used Phrase
Ever wonder where the phrase "tying the knot" comes from as related to getting married? Let’s dive into the history and symbolism behind this popular expression. The phrase "tying the knot" has roots in various cultures, where knots have symbolized unity, love, and commitment for centuries. In ancient Celtic, Hindu,...
Marriage Certificates Made Simple – A handy guide
You’ve tied the knot. Congratulations! You are officially, legally, gloriously married. And now, somewhere between the honeymoon glow and the thank-you card pile, a question surfaces: what exactly is this certificate I’m holding, and is it the right one? In South Africa, there are three marriage certificates available to you....
Romance and Reality: Ante Nuptial Contracts
A marriage requires a continuous balance of romance and reality: The Ante Nuptial Contract. Amidst the romantic flurry of wedding planning, and before you say your 'I do's' it's essential to consider the real legal matters that will shape your marital journey. It is important to understand Ante Nuptial Contracts....
Wedding Celebrants Celebrate! Marriage Officers Officiate!
When people discuss wedding planning, they usually enquire about the venue, dress, number of guests and honeymoon plans! The ceremony itself is an afterthought, or likely not given a thought at all! It is seen as a box to tick before getting to the ‘good part’ of the day. Flowers...
Wedding vows are tradition, not law
Didya know that you don’t actually have to exchange wedding vows during your ceremony Gasp! Wedding vows are tradition, not law. But if you choose to include vows in your ceremony, and overwhelmingly my couples do, here are some things to think about. Some couples recite them word for word...
Wedding Music – here’s what you need to know.
Regardless of the size or style of your wedding, your choice of wedding music is an important layer in setting the tone and mood of the moment and wider celebration. Music is SO personal. It reminds us each individually and as a couple of moments and feelings and reflects our...
Elope on Valentine’s Day – Love Out Loud
Hello there! Would you like to elope on Valentine's Day? If you're reading this it's a safe bet that you want to get married! Am I right...? Have you been planning, saving and waiting for-EVA to do so? Have you been Covid cancelled? Is your savings account just not reaching...
Tips for planning a wedding in 30 days, or less!
When you know, you know. And sometimes when you know, you’re just ready to do the dang thing already! And when you’ve known for a while and Covid has got in the way, then you're likely REALLY ready to do the dang thing already! And you absolutely can plan a...