Talking about the weather (part 2)

“When all is said and done, the weather and love are the two elements about which one can never be sure.” ― Alice Hoffman

The second reason (find the first one here) why South Africa’s winter is the Universe’s gift to your event, is well...the cold weather. Yes, call me Captain Obvious, for now, but you’ll love me in a few seconds. For emphasis, I’m going to use weddings as my subject point, but I think these are pretty much applicable to most, if not, all events.

1. One of the biggest fears that brides have is that it might rain! Eeeeek, right!? Yes. Yes. I know. Rain is apparently good luck in some/most cultures...but, realistically, “good luck” doesn’t look too glamorous when it has your attire drenched, yes? But...we have less rain during winter in South Africa. So there, problem solved. One less thing to worry about. You’re welcome. In case it does rain though, we’ve collected a few Pins that show you how to make the most of a rainy day.

2. Your makeup stays fresh during the winter. Yup! The humidity in the summertime can often cause makeup to look waxy and/or melt away, right? This meaning more touchups, more self-consciousness, unnecessary stress etc. A cooler day keeps your face fresh-looking and flawless for longer. Are you warming up to me yet?

3. But wait, there’s more. Simply put because its winter everyone wants to dress-up. This is good for a number of reasons, I’ll just touch on a few:

• With everyone keen on dressing up you won’t have a difficult time convincing the wedding party to be geared up in formal attire (believe it or not, some people really do need convincing on this, even for their own wedding – trust me, I’m an expert).

• You can also give your guests a fun winter theme to dress up to. I don’t know about you but I’m a sucker for themes – and I love dressing up for them! WARNING: this might not be for everyone but you know your guests and what they like. So go as crazy (or not) as you desire.

• While we are still getting suited up. People don’t sweat as much during winter so you won’t see the occasional annoying tug at the tie or collar from the attendants.

• And finally, you know "that lady" that will bypass even the tightest guest list? Think harder. You know her. She normally will show up as one of your close male relatives’ or friend’s “flavour of the month” or replacement-plus-one and/or a symbol of their youthful bad taste. Do you remember her now? Yes, she will wear that WHITE cringe-worthy offensive scanty dress? Yes, that one. *ehm* Unfortunately there's no real tips on handling her... She probably will still be there and she’ll probably wear “that” dress; but leave her be, she will be a little side humour to reduce your stress levels. In fact your sanity probably depends on her showing up.

Don’t you just love winter functions? Your heart is at least warming up to the idea of winter now, right? Let me know...

Talking about weather

"Don’t knock the weather. If it didn’t change once in a while, nine out of ten people couldn’t start a conversation.” ~ Kin Hubbard

This coming winter might just be glacial for me if this past couple of cold weeks in Johannesburg are anything to go by. I am often told it isn't THAT cold by “normal” people’s standards. Yet, somehow, I have managed to scoop myself a little flu (twice), dig up a pair of cute boots, take a few coats to the cleaners, buy a few jerseys and oh...collect and come up with some cool ideas for winter soirees - just so that I make sure I am anything but normal. Yes, everything must be celebrated EVERYTHING! For the next series of blogs I’ll be giving reasons why South Africa’s winter is the Universe’s gift to your event.

In my zany opinion, winter is THE best time to have an event. I know. I know...you just had flashbacks of that horrible winter wedding you went to. You were so miserable that you didn’t even stick around for the reception. Well hear me out okay? If I can’t change your mind in this blog I might just melt your heart in a few seconds - worst case scenario, I'll have you at the seventh post/reason, at least.

Moving swiftly along to my first reason; finding the perfect venue is sooooooo much easier in winter than in spring/summer; mainly because winter isn’t “peak season” for events/weddings. More venues are available therefore you are spoilt for choice thus there's a greater chance of finding your ideal venue. Perfect for those last minute do's.

TIPS: When you are selecting a venue; consider venues with fireplaces and other such features that can add that special touch to your event. Refer to this post as well for a few tips on venue finding. You can also check out these Pins on fun ways you can use fireplaces/features to create a warm and cozy ambience for your guests.

Heart melting yet? Let me know...