Written & Compiled by Shevaal Singh
The 19th annual Eastern Bridal Fair Cover feature was set at the charming Audacia Manor Historic Boutique Hotel nestled in the heart of Durban. This impeccable wedding venue is private and exclusive with panoramic views of the ocean and the city. With times changing, couples opt for smaller, more intimate gatherings.
A fairytale wedding demands decor to match. While tradition continues to be an important part of the decor, it is increasingly blended with modern themes to achieve balance. The beauty of outdoor weddings in gardens or on the grounds of historic venues, decor elements are used to add a soulful touch of Indian elegance and festivity to wedding and reception venues. The talented Events by Design used classical Indian elements of festive, traditional Indian florals, brass pots, lamps and bells with the trendy Kalera concept to enhance the architectural beauty of Audacia Manor.
Shezaad Ally Photography is known for capturing beautiful brides and splendid weddings, in his signature style of blending high fashion editorial with emotion, he has beautifully captured our stunning cover couple Pelisha Somiah and Tevin Naidu.
Beauty In A Box Makeup crafted the bridal hair and makeup looks by blending classic and bold makeup trends with a touch of boho chic coloured eyes in summery shades with dewy skin and trendy lip shades.
Mount Edgecombe based, Bombay Creations adorned the beautiful Pelisha Somiah in two trendy looks exploring pastels and dark tones of luxury styled by Shevaal Singh. With the changing colour palettes for brides and unconventional settings, we see shades of blue making it big in the 2018 wedding fashion scene.
The cover look features a gorgeous Navy-blue lehenga with a pale pink dupatta embellished in metallic shades of gold, silver and bronze paired with traditional Rajasthan heritage inspired jewellery pieces. With Brides opting for lighter pastels shades like lavender, beige, sunset yellow, mint green, peach, and turquoise our second look showcased a gorgeous mix of pastel green and pink with traditional design and embroidery paired with beautiful traditional jewellery.
Tevin Naidu was dressed in two traditionally tailored Sherwani suits in shades of gold from Mr Executive. Gold Sherwanis are available in many shades that pair perfectly with most bridal colours and styles.
Roushka Bhagwan of Bhagwans Caterers (dressed in traditional shades of red and orange) told us about the trendy foods that should be part of your summer wedding celebrations! Brides today, draw inspiration from global cuisine and Indian favourites for their wedding menu. Indian starters such as starters such as sev puri, pani puri, channa batura are always a hit at weddings while main course menus often include different cuisines such as Indian (dhai vada), Mexican (tacos and enchiladas) Spanish (paella) Italian (pastas and pasta salads) greek (spinach and feta pastries) Chinese (stir-fry noodles) are favourites. Adding a custom drink to your event is often a good way to personalise your menu with differently flavoured lassis, Chaas, Mango juice, Watermelon juice and Flavoured iced water are trendy for the perfect Durban summer wedding.
Cover Models: Pelisha Somiah & Tevin Naidu
Photography: Shezaad Ally Photography
Hair and MakeUp: Beauty in a Box Makeup
Bridal Fashion and Jewellery: Bombay Creations
Groom’s Fashion: Mr Executive
Decor: Events by Design
Venue: Audacia Manor Historic Boutique Hotel
Cinematography: KTWO Media
Co-ordination: Sunita Bhoola-Ramjee
Concept & Styling: Shevaal Singh – Tempest Media
Tempest Media 