When you are legally married in South Africa, you are automatically married into what is known as “community of property” which means all of the couples individual assets and liabilities (including those acquired before the marriage) are merged into a joint estate, in which each spouse has an undivided half-share. Each spouse can act independently with regards to the estate, except for some major transactions, like the sale of a house, which requires the consent of both spouses.
The bride and groom must both be over 18 years of age to form a valid marriage. If a minor (under age 21) is getting married then written consent will be needed from a parent or guardian. An exception is that a girl over 15 years of age may marry under the Marriage Act with the consent of her parents.
In the UK banns are published announcing the forthcoming marriage of the couple. Banns enable the raising of religious or civil impediments to their marriage, preventing an invalid marriage taking place. The reading of banns was halted in South Africa in 1984.
It’s possible to have any flowers you want at your wedding, though some may need to be imported if they are not seasonal. Flowers that are available all year round are rose, carnation, iris, freesia orchid and baby’s breath. I love creating with these flowers and with seasonal blooms too. My speciality is in creating floral displays with orchids. This I can do with a single species to create a flowing bouquet or garland or mix the orchids for a vibrant hit of colour or a mass of pure whites. I can also mix just one or two stems with greenery to create a fabulous centre-piece at a low cost. I also have plenty of ideas for seasonal flowers, and will work to create exactly what you want.
Bouquets, arches, centre-pieces and boutonnières help tie your wedding theme together. Here are some of the ideas I’ve used at the weddings I’ve been honoured to prepare flowers for:
If you want a rustic-style look, consider a mix of bright blooms. If your favourite flower is expensive, mix with affordable flowers like roses, carnations and lisianthus.
Using just one or two flower types throughout the wedding from ceremony through to reception is a bold idea that works well if you choose a strong colours or complementary colour combination.
I always meet with the bride to discuss the look of her wedding concept. I’ll look at what elements need to be designed, determine what’s needed and help create areas of focus and impact that both demonstrates the concept and works within your budget.
Lush greenery, such as eucalyptus and bear grass among others, can create magnificent and large displays without needing as many flowers as a smaller tightly compact style of display.
Like this article? Share it:
© All Rights Reserved
