When one of our clients approached us with the idea of using doilies, I thought it was such a novel idea. One that wouldn't cost the earth and at the same time be easily incorporated into most aspects of the wedding.

When incorporating doilies, you don't necessarily have to use the real thing all over, perhaps bring in the patterns or incorporate lace detailing. Adding elements such as fairylights to the doilie strings could work very well in the garden and for outside decor. You can also incorporate it in your bouquet (by wrapping around the stems) or add doilies to your favours.

I love how some brides have even gone as far as using doilies as cocktail umbrellas for pre-drinks, confetti cones as well as seating place cards. It really is up to you how much or how little you want it to be a part of your wedding theme, as this would influence how you would go about using them.

After searching for "truly South African" favours on google, I came across The Heartfelt Project and my face lit up after browsing their website with their incredible handmade items. I read the The Story of how heartfelt was started, and I couldn't help but have such respect for Martha Letsoalo who found hope when it seemed all was lost.

With 19 dedicated women, The Heartfelt Project has a long term goal that includes helpin thoushands of women by providing job opportunities and creating a unique brand which is instantly recognised throughout the country. There is no doubt in my mind that these women will make it happen, and I hope that all South Africans can support their worthy cause, even if it's simply by telling others about them.

This is the reason I got all excited:

Their range includes (but not limited to) beautiful fridge magnets and brooches,

Keyrings and bookmarks

They also have an entire range dedicated to our furry friends and animals, (which also includes the big 5)

They have a beautiful wedding favour range which also includes felt bouquets and bouttonniers, all of which can be viewed here

To all the ladies at The Heartfelt Project, Martha Letsoalo, Julie Hadley, Charlene Mphuloane, Grace Letswalo, Cecilia Mafunisa, Johanna Mmatsatsi, Lena Majatladi, Katlego Nkuna, Mina Maluleka, Francie Finn, Samantha Yeowart, Olga Tlhokamoni, Bogadi Katoane, Mananki Ringane, Mpho Molefe, Sinah Ringane, Rosemary Sehoole, Magdeline Dithole, and last but not least Lesego Maluleka, keep up the good work girls, you are a true insiration to all South Africans.  

To get in touch with the ladies at Heartfelt contact Charlene on charlene@theheartfeltproject.com or phone her on +27 0823482988

No matter your wedding budget, something as simple as a napkin ring can make it look like a million bucks. Find some beautiful paper, add some accessories if you wish and in no time at all you have personalised your wedding tables.

Follow the simple steps below to make your own napkin rings.

This is what you’ll need:

• Decorative or Craft Paper
• Ribbon
• Light coloured Cotton Twill Ribbon
• Bakers Twine
• Japanese Washi Tape
• Buttons
• Alphabet Stamps
• Fabric Ink
• Linen Napkins
• Scissors
• Glue Gun

Now follow these easy steps:

STEP ONE

Cut strips of the paper long enough to fold around the napkin easily. Ensure that you have a good width.

STEP TWO

Wrap the paper strips around the napkin and secure with washi tape or any decorative tape (double sided tape can also do if you do not want the tape to show).

STEP THREE

Measure and cut a piece of cotton twill ribbon to wrap around the decorative paper on the napkin.

STEP FOUR

Using the alphabet stamps, spell out words and stamp it on the cotton twill ribbon. Let it dry completely before using it. (This step can be done prior to assembly of napkins).

STEP FIVE

Using the glue gun, secure the cotton ribbon to the decorative paper.

STEP SIX

Take a piece of the bakers twine and wrap it around the cotton.

STEP SEVEN

Finally, add decorative elements such as buttons to finish off the look. Choose something that will complement the paper you have decided on.

Ciska and Mark tied the knot in front of 80 guests at the St Marks Chapel in Port Elizabeth on 2 October 2010. They described the moment that their eyes locked as one of the memorable events of the wedding. During the ceremony Llewellyn played the bagpipes which was really a different twist into the traditional strinq quartet. The reception followed at the beautiful venue La Colline which overlooks Port Elizabeth and has amazing night lights during the evening.

ATTIRE

Ciska describes her wedding gown as an exquisite all white wedding gown that had an elegant lace finish and strapless corset bodice embellished with tiny crystal sequence. She hired the dress from Claire at Bridal Flair.

Her hair was doen by Corinne Ward from a Cut Above and Estelle Cunningham did an amazing job with her make-up. Ciska's beautiful shoes were bought from Catherines Bridal Accessories. Ciska bought special outfits for her two bridesmaids and one maid of honour and had their "roles" embroidered on the back of the tops

The groom wore a suit that was bought from Markhams and together with his groomsmen they completed the picture. Each of them were also given embroidered socks which made for some fun photographs.

DETAILS

Ciska and Mark described their theme as passionate with subtle pinks combined with chocolate brown and toned down with affluent whites.Flowers were predominantly roses arranged with crystals to enhance the palette and add some sparkle. The décor was kept to minimum to highlight the floral arrangements and large chandeliers to add exuberance in design. La Romantica was responsible for all this beautiful decor and what an amazing job they did indeed.

The decor was complimented with beautiful stationery by Papmermaster while the favours were also provided by La Romantica. DJ Drew kept the feet dancing the entire night with his music selection.

THE CAKE

The couple had a two tier chocolate & cream polka dot cake that was wrapped with a pink lace ribbon which was made by Ladybird Catering.

DIY BRIDE

Ciska made all the wedding programmes herself as well as some of the guest gifts.

PHOTOGRAPHS

Cherie Theron took incredible photo's of all the detail this wedding had, but also captured some beautiful intimate moments of the couple.

HONEYMOON

The couple enjoyed a long drive along Route 62 and describes it as "Good Food , Good Wine and Great Company".

ADVICE

Ciska keeps it short and sweet with her words of wisdom: "Keep it simple and enjoy it."

Thanks for sharing your wedding with us!

WEDDING SUPPLIERS

• Baker: Ladybird Catering
• Catering: Petronella Catering
• Ceremony Music: Llewellyn - Bagpipes
• Decor: La Romantica
• Dress: Claire at Bridal Flair
• Florist: La Romantica
• Hair: Corinne Ward at a Cut Above
• Make-up: Estelle Cunningham
• Photographer: Cherie Theron
• Reception Music: DJ Drew Andrew
• Reception Venue: La Colline
• Shoes: Catherines Bridal Accessories
• Stationery: Self made as well as Papermaster
• Wedding Planner: La Romantica

Would you like us to feature your wedding? E-mail megan@perfectday.co.za for more information.