Spa Bachelorette Party Ideas

Although having a wild bachelorette party is a long-standing tradition, brides, or more specifically bridesmaids have, in recent years, come up with new ‘pre-tie-the-knot’ extravaganzas. Some include taking their girl for a weekend getaway that they’ll never forget, and then there’s the incredible pre-marital spa experience. In our book, this might just be the best way to not only make the bride happy, but relaxed before the big day, as we all know how stressful wedding planning can be, and your gal surely deserves some pampering after all the work she’s done. Therefore, today we present you with some spectacular spa bachelorette ideas that will help you all unwind, relax and be fully prepared, fresh, rejuvenated and calm for the big day. 

The most important of all 

Every wedding planner as well as a dermatologist will tell you that it’s paramount for the bride to have a quality facial at least a week before her wedding. When it comes to getting that ethereal bridal beauty glow, nothing beats a good facial – some mechanical cleansing, a facial massage and a gentle peel. If you’re short on time and you can’t afford a full-blown spa weekend, you can surely squeeze in two hours in her busy schedule and surprise her with a great facial at one of the best local spas. To make things more fun, book a session for all, as bridesmaids deserve to look their most flawless as well and with a nice brunch or a round of drinks in the evening, it will be a complete day. 

Get this party started 

If you have the imagination and the resources, there is absolutely nothing that can beat an at-home spa experience. If you want to go big, remember Blair Waldorf and her annual sleepovers and take cues from that. You can all get dressed up, start with a few drinks and have beds set up so you can have an incredible bonding night. This can be a combination of a spa night, a bachelorette party and a bridal shower. You can bring gifts, order food and mix up some cocktails. Now, in order to have a great spa night, you need to get a ton of goodies – exfoliators, face masks, pampering lotions, eye creams, serums, – the entire gang, and the amazing Neostrata skincare linehas got you completely covered. You can dance around in your robes or lingerie, have your own private party with masks on your face, take loads of silly pictures, and if you get a little tipsy and dance the night away, so be it. This is, after all, a spa night with extras. Don’t forget to come up with bachelorette party games to spice up the evening – this is an honored tradition that should not be forgotten. 

The stressed out bride 

If you have a bride on your hands whose wedding planning really took a toll on her, you need to rescue her and give her some supreme pampering like she’s never had before. Whisk her away to one of the best, most luxurious spa retreats in the country, and settle for nothing less than a long weekend, because all that tension needs to be removed and it will take more than two days to do so. Start light, by booking a great facial, and then proceed with booking chakra-balancing massages that, for instance, Crown Metropol Isika Spa offers. Get rid of all the tension and feel your bodies realign. Spa resorts, of course, offer more than just massages and facials and as this is your weekend, you should make the absolute most of it. Spend some quality time in the amazing pools, unwind in the pool chairs and let the drinks just keep on coming while you lie comfortably in your robes. You’re in the lap of luxury – enjoy every second of it. Of course, by no means, should you miss spending some great detox time in the sauna, and if you feel like you could use a little movement, there is always a little time to hit the gym. The weekend is long, so there is no need to skip anything the resort has to offer, including luxurious meals that you can have at their superb restaurant. This can be done on your final evening – a classy dinner with drinks; now that you’re all rejuvenated and pampered, it’s time to put your best dresses on, head down to the restaurant, and have a spectacular dinner to celebrate your gal who will in no time become an old married lady. 

Any of these options will give your bride the experience she will never forget and she will be eternally thankful to you for helping her in her ‘hour of need’. Even though each option is as great as the next one, it’s ultimately a matter of preference – do you want to go low key, go for a DIY night that will show how much effort you put in, or a full-blown spa extravaganza? It’s up to you to decide, but worry not, whichever door you decide to open, you won’t get it wrong, because we promised you great ideas and these truly are. 

This article is written by Brigitte Evans from highstylife.com

 

The Day After – Things to Do After Saying “I Do”

Image Source: Unsplash

It’s no secret that weddings can require insane amounts of preparation. From the dress to the venue and guest list, your engagement celebrations will barely be over by the time you’re calling the wedding planner. But it’s not just the wedding day itself you should consider in the lead-up to your marriage. 

Too many couples enjoy a meticulously-planned wedding day, only to wake up the next morning with no clue about how to proceed as newlyweds. To help you and your fiancé avoid that prospect, we’ve put together a list of things to do after you say “I do”. Enjoy!

Make the most of time with your guests

Many of your guests will have travelled from afar to attend your special day. Even if they haven’t, when was the next time you had so many of your loved ones together in one place? Particularly for out-of-town weddings, it’s a lovely gesture to organizea group activity – or five – for the days immediately following the wedding – check out the best local things to doin your destination, and treat your guests to a great experience or activity to show your thanks. 

Even if you’re planning on honeymooning immediately and won’t be present to join the fun, booking everyone else into a bowling night or brunch meal out in advance is a fantastic way to unofficially extend your special day and leave your wedding party with memories of the best kind.

Image Source: Dahlia and Grace Phtography

Thank your vendors

While some couples figure that payment is thank-you enough for their vendors, most newlyweds find that they owe a lot more to their caterers, hairdressers, photographers, and so on. The vendors you choose can truly make your wedding day, which is why it’s so important to follow up with thanks.

If you’ve had a particularly positive experience with a vendor, make sure to support their business by providing a positive reviewon their site or social media page, and by sending handwritten notes to express your personal thanks.

And whileyou’re in a gracious mood, make sure to pen thank-you notes to the friends and family who made it out to see you married, as well. You might want to include a photo or two of the wedding party, or a personalised thank-you which details how you’ve used their wedding gift – anything to let them know how much their presence meant to you and your partner. 

Chase up your photos

Once you’ve received your photos, it’s time to create your wedding album. Doing this as a couple is a wonderful way to relive the beauty of your dayand impress the memories while they’re still deliciously fresh.

Speaking of memories, this is the time to ensure the artefacts from your special day last a long time. This means flower-pressing any bouquets, preserving your dress, and making a wedding-box full of things like your ceremony programme and wedding invitation.

Image Source: Unsplash

Have your cake and eat it too

Waste not, want not! Make the most of that wedding cakeyou paid a pretty penny for, and luxuriate in a post-wedding feast. Nothing beats a cheeky slice of cake the morning after, but if you’re a deft hand in the kitchen, you might even want to craft what’s left into a tasty dessert. We recommend a good old wedding-cake trifleor a tasty batch of cake pops – yum!

Plan for beyond the day itself

If you’ve just had the dream garden wedding you’ve been visualising for months – maybe years – it’s only natural to wake the day after feeling a bit flat.

Post-wedding blues are a real thing! To avoid being hit by them too hard, make sure you’ve planned a treat for beyond your wedding day. This might, obviously, be your honeymoon, but it could be something like redecorating the house, getting a pet, or attending a fun event together. You’re life partners now, with plenty of great times together ahead, and we wish you all the very best in life.

Johanna Cider is a New Zealand-based writer who loves writing about all kinds of travel and lifestyle topics. She enjoys going to social functions – especially to celebrate special milestones with her loved ones.  Visit Johanna’s Tumblrpage to read more of her published work. 

Wedding Favors Your Guests Will Cherish

Wedding planning is no small feat, and it’s a process that lasts for months, or even years. If you’re at an age when you’re getting married, you’re probably also going to a lot of weddings. What are your favorite parts? What do you absolutely hate? Visiting a lot of weddings is a great way to figure out what you want for your own wedding, including the things you bring back with you: wedding favors. It’s the thing that everyone will keep and love – if it’s any good. Now, you don’t have to give them a key to a car to make them remember you, but a personalized key chain? Now we’re talking.

Personal stamp

The one thing you want to avoid is giving your guests a favor that they will love and keep, but will forget where they got it in a few months. Now, of course, this doesn’t mean you should put your faces all over the party favors, because that’s one way to make sure nobody is going to be using or displaying them, but think in the direction of making a recognizable mark. Perhaps a logo, a symbol or a drawing that represent the two of you: a combination of your names or initials, a caricature drawing or just a symbol you both connect with. Use this in all of your invitations, menus and in décor to make sure it gets noticed. This allows you to take a seemingly ordinary gift and make it special.

Make it functional

People like gifts that they can actually use. Giving them a framed picture or a cute letter is a good way to make sure the gift ends up at a bottom of a drawer, never to be seen. If you do want to opt for decorative, think decorative with use: tea towels, stickers, fridge magnets, phone cases, etc. Things can be both decorative and functional, and that’s really what you should be aiming for. When discussing quality, get the best that you can in your price range. Often if you talk to the manufacturer directly, they are willing to give you a discount on a bigger order. You really don’t want to give your guests a beautiful, personalized bottle opener – and then have it break the first time they try to use it. If getting better quality means putting less things in the goody basket, go for it, it’s worth it.

Too many people leave planning the party favors at the end of the task list, meaning that by the time they are taken into consideration, there is no time to custom make something, or even hand-write the notes. One way you can definitely stand out is getting unique gifts for all of your guests, really taking time to consider what each person would love. This, of course, isn’t realistic for big weddings, but if you’re having a smaller crown of meaningful people attend the party, then this is one good way to show them that they really are important to you and that you know what they like.

Something that brings them all together

A great idea is to give a gift that will bring all of your guests together once again, or perhaps again and again. The favor can be a voucher for a movie taking place a week after the wedding, or a local wine tasting festival. It is the perfect time for people to come together and share their thoughts about the wedding, meet once again with the people they didn’t have time to exchange phone numbers with and just hang out. Time it so that you aren’t on your honeymoon at the time, because a lot of those guests will want to see you again. Or, you can make an event just for your guests and Skype in for an hour from your honeymoon.

Something for the wedding

Ever thought about giving out wedding favors at the start of the wedding? Well, maybe you should. Create little packages of things that everyone can find useful and that will bring everyone together. Depending on your theme, these can be party hats, pins, makeup, wigs or anything else that people can put on as soon as they arrive to have a fun time, and then take home for future use. It doesn’t have to be goofy, either, you can gift shawls and ties for your guests to all match and look very elegant.

A good party favor is really one that shows that you care and that you put thought into. There’s nothing worse than a favor that is there just because everyone says that weddings need to have favors, not because you actually want to put time into it. Try to hand-write thank you notes for the favors, and sign them to let your guests know that you really do hope they had a nice time.

Photography: www.pexels.com ; Belamour Photography; Loui Hartland Photography & Film

This article is written by Brigitte Evans from highstylife.com

3 Engagement Ring Trends for Brides-to-Be

Engagement rings hold a special place in women's hearts. Carefully selecting an engagement ring is important. The ring symbolises the commitment between you and your soon-to-be partner in life and your special journey together.

If you need help choosing a ring for your future wife, below is a list of trendy engagement ring designs for your reference:

1. Three-Stone Engagement Rings

This ring design suddenly went into fashion after Meghan Markle's engagement with Prince Harry. Exuding elegance, grace and a touch of minimalism, this engagement ring has a classic appearance. Its defining feature is a large centrepiece gemstone, flanked by small equally-sized gemstones and securely supported by a claw-like prong on both sides. 

There is no set standard for this timeless jewellery. It can customised according to buyer preference. The design looks more sophisticated on diamond engagement rings, however. 

2. Accented Styles

The accented style has stood the test of time. Most accented engagement rings have a big diamond gemstone at the centre while tiny gemstones surround the entire ring band. At times, artisans place a metal around the centre stone to enhance its sparkle or make it look more impressive. 

If your bride is fond of elaborate styles or sparkly gemstones, then choosing an accented engagement ring should make her happy. Accents can also be done by adding extra layers of gemstones or metallic artwork.

3. Rose Gold Shades

Some years ago, rose gold captured the world's attention as a unique colour shade that perfectly combines soft femininity with glowing elegance. From gadgets to accessories, this one-of-a-kind shade has also found its way into the hearts of future brides. 

Now a trendy and celebrated colour for any engagement ring or wedding band design, many women continue to express their love for rose gold. Hailed as one of the world's most flattering shades, rose gold highlights feminine qualities and gives its wearers that extra radiance. 

As you strive to walk on a path of beauty and lasting happiness, find an engagement ring that best represents your feelings for the woman of your dreams. The ideal engagement ring should also be a reflection of your lady love's uniqueness. Choose a ring that brings out her distinct character to let her know just how much you cherish her. 

About Author

Henry Rowell is a blogger and web marketer for Anny's, custom jewellers specialising in engagement rings Melbourne and heirloom jewellery. When not writing, he travels and reads books.

Aussie Bride Beauty Checklist

Nothing like a wedding to make us want to indulge in a ton of pampering and make sure we look our best. It’s our big day after all, and a bride knows how important it is to feel good in your own skin if you want to shine on all the wedding photos and have a truly memorable ceremony. But how do we prep for the event and what will we need to look spectacular? For Aussie brides and those inspired by their beauty, here’s a list of exactly the things you’ll need to make sure you are gorgeous, relaxed, and totally ready. 

Image: Omar Lopez

Start a workout challenge

Now you have the perfect thing to motivate you! The sooner you start, the better results you’ll get, and if you want to get all firm and toned, pick a workout challenge that you can easily fit into your daily schedule. 

Try cooking more often

Same as with exercise, the sooner you start, the better you’ll feel when the big day finally comes. Also, if you’ve got pounds to shed, it’s much better to do it slowly and steadily than to starve yourself a month before the wedding. Cut down on sugar and processed junk, eat a ton more veggies and cook whenever you can to make sure you always have a healthy meal on your hands.

Consider laser hair removal

This is definitely optional, but it’s a very, very popular procedure in Australia and it’s worth it in the long run. We recommend that you start doing it at least six months before the wedding because it actually takes several treatments to get full results. That way you won’t have to fuss much with unwanted hair and you’ll feel more relaxed both on your wedding day and on your honeymoon. 

Visit your dermatologist as soon as possible

Image: Davids Kokainis

If you’ve got any skin issues, it’s important to address them early so you’d have enough time to deal with them. Acne and wrinkles can be made a lot better if you’re given the proper treatment to deal with them, so schedule an appointment with your doctor and see what they can recommend. In Australia, sun spots are a common problem, so getting professional pigmentation treatment in Sydney is something brides always do before the big day. If you’ve got scarring or spots that you want gone, this can help you out a lot. You can also consider chemical peels and microdermabrasion as a way to smooth out texture and have taut, glowing skin. 

Get regular with your skincare

Now that you’ve got your doctor prescribed treatments and recommendations, it’s time to put it all to good use. Nothing will work unless you are consistent, so forget about lazy days where you go to bed with makeup still on and skipping on moisturizing and cleansing. Seriously, a regular skincare routine is all you need to look radiant, and it will help if you incorporate a good vitamin C serum and remember to wear sunscreen every day. 

Waxing on time

If laser hair removal wasn’t within your budget or you just didn’t have time for it, remember to wax about a week before the wedding. You should also get your eyebrows done around this time as well.

Dry brushing and tanning

Once hair is out of the way, you can apply self-tanner in case you want a summery glow on your skin. Before you do that, we recommend exfoliating with a brush. Do this before you take a shower, just slough away dead cells while the skin is still dry. Once you’re done with the shower, make sure to take proper steps when applying self-tanner so you wouldn’t end up looking patchy. You can renew your tan two-three days before the wedding.

Manicure and pedicure

Do this a few days before the wedding so you won’t have to rush it. Pick some nice, natural shades and make sure that the manicure is long-lasting and that it won’t chip easily.

Image: Allef Vinicius

Hair and face

The evening before the wedding is the perfect time to grab a good hair pack and nourish your hair, and to sit down and relax with a good sheet mask on your face. Rub in a body lotion into your skin and simply take some time to really let go of the stress and feel happy about what’s coming tomorrow. 

A little note about makeup

If a professional is doing your makeup, then make sure you have try-out sessions so you could really pick the look that suits you the best. If you plan to do it on your own, then start practicing months before so you could get the look down perfectly. 

One last tip before we go would be to pay attention to stress management. A big, happy event is coming your way, and stress will only mar the joy of it. So, get regular massages, do yoga, meditate, and start looking forward to the wedding! 

This article is written by Brigitte Evans from highstylife.com

Feel The Best Before the Dress

Image: Steve Doyle Photography

Let’s face it, as magical as the wedding day you’re planning for will be, there is nothing magical about the stress that comes along with it. From the headache of sorting out the guest list, to the stress eating of every cake sample possible, planning for a wedding can be a lot of hard work and eventually begin to take a toll on you! One of the most important things to remember during the chaos of bringing together all the details, is to take a moment for yourself! Here are a few tips we have for making sure you make the most of that moment.

Try That Fitness Class You’ve Been Dying to Sign Up For!

Book yourself a yoga, spin or any kind of fitness class! Call up your friends and get together for a fitness date. Have you ever tried hot yoga? Reduced stress, increased happiness and a natural glow are a few reasons why hot yoga is a great option before your wedding day! This is a fun way of trying something new or getting back to something that you love! Not to mention, this will help keep you looking and feeling great for that special day! Afterwards, head out with your friends to grab smoothies or another healthy option to spend time together catching up or planning your next class!

Spend A Date Night Out ---- Or In!

I know you’ve agreed to spend the rest of your life together, but think about agreeing to spending a night out just the two of you before the big day. As obvious as it sounds, a little date night goes a long way! Head to the drive-in or your favorite restaurant and spend the evening talking and catching up about anything besides wedding details. Or if it is a better option, stay in for the evening! Make your favorite snacks, open a bottle of wine, put on a feel-good movie, and wear your most comfortable pair of sweatpants. It will surprise you the things that you have forgotten about or forgotten you enjoyed talking about when you step away from always thinking about wedding planning.

Enjoy a Spa Day!

Perhaps the easiest way to relax is to book yourself an appointment at the spa. When it comes to the spa, there are many recommended treatments you should get before your wedding.  Spend an hour or two getting a massage to release all of that built-up tension. Another great idea to help you relax and also look the best for your big day, is to get a facial. Facials are a great way to refresh your skin and leave your face with a glow that is natural and radiant. Sit back, relax and let yourself unwind as your needs are taken care of!

Image: Bel'Amour Wedding Photography 

When All Else Fails - Go Over the Details!

If taking a break from your wedding plans is just not possible, that’s okay! Approach your plans in a different way. Maybe stay home, put on your favorite pair of sweatpants and open a bottle of wine. Put on your favorite show to watch in the background and continue working on the details of your big day.

Let yourself relax as you pick out bridesmaid dresses or search quality wedding tuxedos and suits for your groomsmen, which is often one of those details left to the very last minute! According to Emily from Southern Weddings, one of your best options — last minute or not — are the wedding suits and tuxedos from The Black Tux. As she explains in her article, “Too often, renting a tux means worn out, cheap polyester suits that don’t really fit, and several trips to a brick and mortar store. The Black Tux has single-handedly changed that rental reputation, resetting expectations with a simple rental process, a better fit, and the finest wool available (no polyester involved whatsoever).” Sold!  

Image: Will Idea Photography

Whatever you have left to check off your list, spend this time just catching up on some of the smaller details you would feel better about finishing up.

As the details of your wedding come together, don’t forget to take the time to take care of yourself. Spend a day or two to get away and get back to the things you may have not been able to do or the things you have been meaning to try! Spend a day at the spa or spend time with friends or your future someone! How would you take a moment to relax before your wedding day?

Image: Kayla Temple Photography

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