The wedding shoe is one of the most important accessories in the long list of bridal accessories. While some bride might equate this experience to what it feels when one find Mr. Right, for others scoring a solid wedding shoe is as simple as considering comfort (which is key no matter how much you value style). By the end of the day, make sure that you are comfortable as you will be with them the whole day. Here are some of the Do’s and don’t you should consider before buying that wedding shoe!

First Do: First find your wedding gown!

This principle applies even if you have stumbled upon your perfect shoe first before the gown. The reason why is that you want your wedding-day shoes to complement your dress in every aspectstyle, color, detail, etc. In addition, the length of your dress matters. For instance, if you have a shorter dress, your shoes can serve as a statement accessoryadding color, glitz, glam, whatever you feel your ensemble is missing.On the other hand, if your dress is on the longer side, your shoes can serve more of a comfort purpose, and how seamlessly they match might be less important. Another reason to buy your dress first is that youll need your shoes at each of your dress fittings.

Second Do: Always Shop around

To avoid both waiting until the last minute and finding your wedding shoe too early, youll want to set aside a lot of time to browse and compare many stores for both price and better options before saying, this is the one.

Dont: Buy your wedding shoe online

Unlike the wedding gown which can be adjusted, a wrong pair of shoe can be any bride’s nightmare. Online websites are one of the simplest ways through which one can explore styles and get a feel for whats available at your local stores, buying your wedding shoes in-person also allows you to check where the hemline of your dress would fall when you wear them, so you can avoid stylistic faux pas.

Do: Know your venue

Just as you check the weather to make sure youre wearing the appropriate footwear before venturing outside every day, don’t forget to consider your venue and check whether your shoe is a suitable choice.Your wedding venue will influence how much heel you should wear, since trying to look graceful while walking through sand on a beach is much more difficult in heels than strolling down an aisle in a church.

Dont: Be afraid of colors aside from white

Like any other style decision you make for your big day, what color shoes will depend on what kind of bride you are. For example, if youre more classic and traditional, youll likely be drawn to traditional whites, champagnes, ivories, and nudes, but if youre slightly less traditional, dont be afraid go outside the box in the color department.

One of the most memorable parts of your big day is your wedding gown! The shimmering spotlight is set on the bride,so the wedding dress should be a must hit. One needs to not only stand out and look totally gorgeous, they also have to maintain that elegance as well as the beauty that they possess.Here are some of the things to look out for if you are one of the brides desiring to have a unique look on your nuptial.

1. Choose a silhouette and cut that are not commonly used.

Never underestimate the power of silhouettes. A gowns cut has just as impact as the material and details. Apart from a silhouette matching your body type perfectly, go for something that is not commonly used. For instance, one can employ a haltered neckline or a tent silhouette to achieve this unique look.

2. Have fun with appliqu!

Brides have an advantage in this day and age where there is an abundance of inspiration and creativity. Let your mind open to adding a little bit of character to your gown. Experiment with appliquesthey add texture and an artistic flair to your gownand when creatively placed, they can make the gown look gorgeous.

3. Be Bold! Try use fun elements.

For that added wow factor, think out of the box and try adding gorgeous bows, feathered vests, or sparkling capes to your gown. Youll feel extra unique because of all the fun elements incorporated in your dress apart from looking beautiful on your big day.

4. Put a twist to a classic style.

We can never discount the uniqueness of an unconventional dress design. Were all for surprise elements being added to wedding dresses! But if youre not the type of bride who likes going all-out, you can always opt for subtly bold elements instead, like this gowns sexy cutout put right above the waist, giving the dress such a distinct look!

5. Opt for one-of-a-kind looking lace.

There will always be brides who love lace. If youre one of them, then please know that there are so many options and different types of lace out there, and some of them are extremely unique-looking! Even the most simple, classic wedding gown can instantly be made to look different just by the type of lace used.

Remember, its your big day and so whatever you choose to wear, wear it confidently. You will only be as beautiful as the smile you wear when you walk down the aisle!

Choosing a wedding date is one of the most important planning decisions that you’ll have to make as a couple that is after saying yes to the journey of love. Your wedding date will impact every other aspect of your nuptial including your budget. You may have an idea of where you envision yourself walking down the aisle or how your gown will look like , but until you decide when you’d like to get married, you can’t commit to anything. We have compiled some of the best months with the best deals as far as tying the knot is concerned.

1. February
This is the month, after January, that is deemed to be tough in terms of financial matters is concerned. Hence, when it comes to getting deals, most wedding vendors and hotels give the best deals especially being that it is the month of love. Its also the best month since its hot and your guests can wear their pretty little dresses on your nuptial.

2. June

June July is the coolest time in Nairobi but other parts are warmer.It is a good time at the coast, less humid and not too hot. Depends where you choose to plan your nuptial. Money is also not overstretched as far as wedding budget is concerned.

3. August

This month looks like a fake December with many of the working class taking their leave during this month. So, if you are looking to have a crowd on the day of your wedding, this is the month to go for.

4. October

October has been the most popular wedding month in the last couple of years. In Kenya, two holidays fall in this month where a couple can plan their wedding date. It is also a month with a great cash flow if you are planning to do a harambee.

5. December

This is the most ideal month for many couples with the many holidays falling during this time which can work well if you are looking to have a crowded wedding. For many couples, things like warm weather or an outdoor venue are important. But obviously, this is the busiest time of year for venues and vendors, so costs will likely be higher.

The logistics of getting to and from your wedding venue and sometimes to your reception can be tricky if not properly planned out. That is why its thoughtful to make room in your wedding budget for transportation not only for yourself but also for your guests. Here are some fun ways, which you can use to get your guests around!
1. Antique Car
Renting a vintage car can make your big day unique. They are a classy, unusual form of transportation that will let you and your bride- or groom-to-be make an impressive entrance.

2. Limousine
A limousine is timeless and elegant, the traditional choice of wedding transportation. If you want your bridal party to jump in, a stretch limousine would make a great experience!
3. Taxi or uber
For a classic wedding in the city, a vintage checked taxi or uber is totally on-theme.
4. Helicopter
For the ultimate exit, it really doesn’t get more over-the-top than a helicopter. This one’s perfect for the couple whose motto is “go big or go home.”

5. Golf Cart
This comes in handy when your ceremonies as well as reception are at the same venue, but a bit of a distance away. Once decorated, a golf cart can be a unique mode of transport to the venue!
6. Rowboat
Have an inspired moment as your love rows you across the lake.
7. Sailboat
This is one of the methods, which will get you ready for your honeymoon. For the extravagant bride, a yatch too can work out!
8. Horse and Carriage
You’ll feel like Cinderella as you ride along with your very own Prince Charming. Best of all, the fairy tale won’t end at midnight

9. Party Bus
For the bride and groom who want to ride along with the wedding party, nothing says “party” like party bus.

Royal fans have a lot to celebrate this year as the second royal wedding between princess Eugenie and Jack Brooksbank has already taken place. Just like the Harry and Meghans nuptial, their church ceremony was held inside St. George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle while their nighttime reception took place at Royal Lodge in Windsor.

A household name in the United Kingdom, Princess Eugenie alongside her sister are renowned for the flamboyant hat that they wore to Prince William and Kate Middletons nuptial and is the third of the queens four granddaughters. She was also the first royal baby to have a public christening. Her husband, Brooksbank, 31, is the son of an accountant and grew up in British aristocratic circles. He did not attend college, though, and instead worked in the restaurant and bar industry. He is currently the manager of the posh nightclub Mahiki, and is a brand representative for George Clooneys company, Casamigos Tequila. It is said that the two lovebirds have been together for more than seven years. We are always keen to check out how special the royal weddings are and here is how different Eugenies wedding was from the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.

1. The Timing
This is the most obvious difference between the two celebrations. While Meghan and Harrys big day was on a Saturday morning around noon in the springtime, Eugenie and Jacks wedding took place on a Friday morning in October.
4. THEIR RECEPTION
While Eugenie and Jacks festivities lasted for two days, which comprised of the ceremony, fairgrounds as well as an afternoon tea, Prince Harry and Meghan had two receptions one which was a very private affair. The Queen hosted a wedding reception at Windsor Castle, and later on, another reception was held at the York’s Windsor family home called the Royal Lodge.
The Royal Lodge was special given the fact that this is the place where the York family reside and Princess Eugenie spent much of her childhood in the area, making the venue a heartfelt one not only for the bride, but her entire family.
5. THE GUEST DRESS CODE
While at Meghan and Harry’s wedding the male guests were allowed to wear “lounge suits,” none of that happened at Eugenie’s. Guys had to wear morning suits, which have an S-shaped coat. In addition, the duo had a much larger guest list.
6. THE COST
When it comes to cost, Prince Harry and Meghans nuptial exceeded Eugenie’s wedding. It is said that Prince Harry and Meghans wedding clocked in at nearly $45 million, a sum that was partially covered by the palace. Reportedly, this cost the taxpayer a whooping $40 million just for security. Eugenie’s nuptial was said to be $2.5 million celebration and there is a bit of controversy in what the public was expected to pay in as far as security measures are concerned despite the fact that Eugenie is not one of the main royals.

7. THE DRESS
While Meghan settled for a Givenchy wedding gown designed by Brit Clare Waight Keller, Eugenie went with a nearly off-shoulder gown by Peter Pilotto and shoes by Charlotte Olympia. And when it comes to the veil, unlike Meghans, which was the talk of town, Eugenie ditched it in favor of highlighting her gown’s plunging back and proudly showing off the scars from her childhood scoliosis back surgery.

8. THE MAID OF HONOR
Meghan, being the diplomat that she is, chose not to have a maid of honor because she couldn’t choose between her friends. How sweet! Plus, Meghan and her half-sister Samantha Markle weren’t exactly on speaking terms so that wasn’t really an option.
But what’s just as sweet as Meghan not choosing between her friends is who Eugenie picked to be her maid of honorher sister, Princess Beatrice, of course!
12. THE TIARAS
Considering that Meghan isn’t royal, she didn’t have any spare tiaras lying around so she borrowed the Queen Mary Filigree tiara, which Queen Elizabeth II inherited in 1953. While it was predicted that Eugenie would wear the York tiara, which her mother wore when she married Prince Andrew, she opted for an emerald one that she borrowed from the Queen.

Photos courtesy

An invitation or save the date for a future wedding in your was up or mail box can be one of the most exciting things to anticipate. Weddings, more often than not, are an opportunity to eat good food, dance besides old friends and make new ones too. In addition, its the celebration of two people in your life who have found love within one another and promise to stay together for a lifetime. So being in your best behavior as a wedding guest is crucial not only for your reputation but also as a sign of respect to your loved one. We, did our research and found out some of the common mistakes that wedding guests do in weddings:
1. Wearing White
Even if you think its okay and think that you look better in the colour, unless its the theme of the wedding or the bride says so, wearing white to a wedding is a no no. Let the bride sparkle in white while you wear any other dress just to be safe.
2. Not Giving A Gift
I know times are hard and the economy is tough but its courtesy to at least go with a gift even just a card. Your card will mean something to them and they will cherish it for the rest of their lives.
3. Chatting During the Ceremony
As excited as you may be during the ceremony because of meeting old friends or making new ones, it is wise and respectful to refrain from chatting.
4. Taking Flash Photography
Dont compete with the official photographers when it comes to taking photography kindly make way for them. Those photos are the only memory that couples have so as a matter of respect, let the photographers take the best photos possible.

5. Taking Shots Before the Ceremony
Kindly dont be drunk before the ceremony even if you are a renowned party animal. Save the best for last as in most weddings couples have an open bar in the evenings.
6. Wearing Jeans
Even if the wedding invitation says it is not a black tie event, kindly do not wear jeans in any wedding.
7. Getting Competitive About the Bouquet Toss
The bouquet tossing time should is a fun time where singles get to catch the bouquet and hope that their wedding will be the next one. However, don’t get too competitive and avoid elbowing people around you and pushing them away. Remember, its never that serious!
8. Giving An Unplanned Speech
If you want to speak at the wedding, chat with the couple beforehand, but keep in mind that they may not want guests to think it’s an open mic kind of night and have speeches drag on for a good chunk of the reception. Just because there’s a microphone at the party, doesn’t mean you have permission to use it.
9. Texting the Bride
Can you imagine how many texts and calls the bride gets the day before and during the wedding? If you can, kindly avoid bringing in pressure and hold your peace till afterwards.
10. Bringing an Uninvited Plus-One
If you weren’t told you could bring someone to the wedding, know that you have to fly solo. An uninvited guest is an extra plate, which means an extra cost to the couple.
11. Not Introducing Yourself to the People at Your Table
Be sure to say hello to them when you sit down. You were placed at that table for a reason so chances are you have something in common with the people around you.
12. Comparing/Criticizing the Details
If you didnt contribute in making the wedding happen, kindly dont say anything negative about the occasion. Bring in positive vibe.

In most societies, when a woman is married, the expectation is that they change their last name as a sign that they have acquired a new status. But do you know where this entire tradition came from?
Historically, an individuals surname was not significant. Most people were only known by their first/Christian names in early medieval England. However, as the population grew, it became a tedious task to distinguish people and as a result the surnames were introduced. Issues of wives taking their husbands surnames did not surface until the 19th century when lawmakers in Britain started to look into the legalities surrounding families, personhood as well as marriage. Consequently, the doctrine of coverture emerged which made the woman one with her spouse therefore requiring her to change her last name to her husbands.

The concept of coverture literally connotes covered by, which meant that women had no independent legal identity apart from their spouse. This coverage began when the female child was young in that she had to take her fathers surname and could only change it once she was legally married. While the laws meant that the woman was covered, the worst part of it was that these laws hindered them from signing contracts, participating in or even exercising ownership over real estate or personal property. However, as times went by, and as more women right groups began to emerge, the woman have an option to retain their birth name after marriage.

All over the world, some time back, it was automatic that a married woman would later on change their name to their hubbys. Nevertheless, times are changing and with the rise of independent women i.e being able to acquire land without requiring their husbands consent or even loans from banks, more and more women are apparently refusing to take up their husbands last names. Here are some of the reasons that we found out after research, on why some women are not changing their names:
1. Procrastination:
Most women admit that the process of changing their name to their husbands is tedious and they have found themselves procrastinating the entire process. The process entails forms to be filled and returned to the registrar of persons before the names change officially.

2. Their husbands last name is terrible
Some women reject their husbands name because its either terrible or has a horrible meaning which they cant associate themselves with.
3.To maintain their identity
Marriage means that a woman loses her identity especially by changing their name. To prove that they are proud of who they are, some women decide to keep their last name.

4. It will affect their career
When a woman attains some level of influence or financial/career success before they get married, they tend to refuse the names of their husbands as it results in a lot of complications or its double work trying to change what they have worked for years.
5. Fear of divorce
With the rise in number of cheating cases, most women are sticking to keeping their last name.
6. Family tradition
Women who come from influential families tend to keep their maiden names as a way of keeping their family tradition and also their wealth. Some also keep because their mother also kept hence it continues throughout their generations.
7. Because their hubby is changing their names to hers
Sounds weird but thats the current trend now.

While it is true that every person loves compliment, women, in particular, are never disarmed when you give them one. So besides carrying your gift vouchers and presents, a nice word will keep them smiling all the way. From the research we conducted, we found out that brides love to be told all things nice ranging from their makeup, to their wedding gown to the tiniest details of what stood out on their big day. As a guest at a wedding, here are some of the nice things you can tell a bride:
1. This gown really looks good on you!
If youve ever assisted a bride look for a wedding gown, you can attest to the fact that it is one of the most challenging things to do. So when she finds it and looks perfect on her big day, genuinely compliment her by telling her she looks beautiful. You can never go wrong by telling her how spectacular her gown is.
2. You are beautiful
Especially when it comes to make up. From research, ever bride wants to know that her look made each of her guests shed a tear or two. From her gorgeous hair, to her breathtaking vision and her beautiful face the compliment will stick with her long after the wedding.
3. You two are perfect together.
One of the most relieving things you can tell a bride is to let her know that she made the right choice in as far as her husband is concerned. Compliment both her and the hubby and let them know how well they look like soul mates.
4. Im enjoying myself so much, thanks a lot for inviting me.
After alls been said and done, every couple wants to know that everything they went through to make this big event happen was worth it. And nothing makes them smile than to know that their guests enjoyed and loved everything in the wedding.
5. Your choice of dcor was stunning!
Research indicates that most brides spend 90 %of their time on dcor. Since they spend all this time making their wedding look good, why not make them feel awesome by how their whole reception or their church set up looks! Whether it’s a creative table arrangement or just a well arranged bouquet, its these little things that go a long way to make the brides day feel worthwhile.

6. Whatever is in your heart!
Everything is meaningful when it comes from the heart. It might not be just about the wedding but find out how to make the bride smile. Their wedding day is all about celebrating the love they share with each other and the significant people in their lives hence thats the perfect chance of showing how much they mean to you!