Images: Karen E Photography

With there being no one “set” manual for the perfect wedding; there is experience and the “been there, done that” from those who have already hosted a wedding. It is these pieces of advice that stem from experience that can truly help you to ensure that your wedding is one of the best days of your life.

As we come into September, and the flowers are blossoming, there is always the feel of romance in the air.

For many brides, the fragrance of flowers in bloom, the slightly warmer temperature, and certain flowers and foods in season make September one of the best months of year to wed the love of their lives.

As many wedding destinations and establishments that cater for special occasions may agree, September is usually a popular month for weddings and many are booked out well in advance.

Are you hosting a spring inspired wedding and need some guidance on how to bring the look and feel of this bright season together? Why not follow these practical guidelines to ensure your wedding décor hits the mark!

• Blooming gorgeous: Try work your décor around a particular blossom that is in season. This may assist in bringing down the price of your flowers and ensure you have an abundance for your big day. Some of the flowers in season at this time of year (in South Africa) are Freesia (white, yellow, pink and red), Amaryllis (white, cream and pale pink), Arum lilies (white or pink with a yellow stalk-like centre), Agapanthus (a.k.a, Lily-of-the-Nile) (small flowers in blue-purple or white) and the Barberton Daisy (a popular wedding flower that comes in bold colours like yellow, orange, pink, red and white).

• Dress it up: Your table linen could be a bold floral print or a simple colour or even plain white that is dressed up with a burst of colour. The trend for 2016 is to include metallics such as gold’s, bronze’s and silvers; however the most common colours for this season include canary yellow, orange, cerise pink, purple and even a turquoise infusion.

• Take the cake: Spring trends include tall cakes with fruit, flowers and even undressed options showing the cream and sponge.

• It’s in the details: Floral accents could be brought in to add that “spring-feeling”, either in the bridesmaid’s dresses, groomsmen ties, or even on the bride – in the form of a floral headband. One may even prefer to incorporate a print on one of the layers of the cake; this is likely to add an extra element to the décor when tying in the overall look.

• Wrap it up: Jars filled with jam, dried fruit and even nuts could be a small spring statement to add as guests favours.

If these minor details don’t tickle your fancy, then call the establishment you have booked for your wedding and ask the experts for advice.

Guidelines provided by Granny Mouse’s capable banqueting team who are able to help you with all your wedding details to ensure it is more than amazing! www.grannymouse.co.za

This September, Granny Mouse Spa celebrates their 10^th birthday!

Having opened in 1996, the spa started with only a minimal number of staff which has now grown to a staff capacity of 6, all of which have been through training provided by Granny Mouse and the managing company, Camelot Spa, since 2013.

The reason for adding this feature to the offering at Granny Mouse Country House was due to demand. “Guests needed a place to relax and rejuvenate on their getaway and the spa added the option of doing this while not having to travel to an external location. Additionally, it provided a place to rejuvenate, in conjunction with the relaxation the hotel provided,” said Sean Granger, General Manager at Granny Mouse Country House & Spa.

Situated in one of the most beautiful locations in South Africa – at the foot of the Drakensberg Mountains and besides the soothing sounds of the Lions River – it sets the perfect scene to rejuvenate your senses and enjoy the country setting.

At the Granny Mouse Spa, guests can be assured that every precaution is taken to ensure all guests receive only the best professional treatment for their needs. “We use only the best products, combined with aroma therapeutic product treatments. We have also recently upgraded our menu to included specialised treatments, a welcome treatment as well as offer all the basics, one could want, plus more,” commented Iska Bharath, Trainer & Operations Consultant for Camelot Spa KZN.

As part of the Granny Mouse Spa offering, professionalism is key. Each treatment on the menu has been adapted to suit a variety of preferences and there is an added benefit of pregnancy-safe treatments for expecting mothers to enjoy.

From facials, to manicures, hydrotherapy, detox wraps, to exfoliations, massages and a steam room – there is a variety of treatments to assist in healing, revitalisation, balance, pain and muscle relief, hydration and skin softening; providing overall wellness.

According to Granger, “Here at our Granny Mouse Country House & Spa, we not only believe in providing a service to our guests, we also believe in encouraging promotion and skills development of our staff. This is true to our spa, as we ensure that training is done on a monthly basis. This ensures both enhancement of technique and skills, but also allows Granny Mouse Spa to keep on trend”.

For the month of September, all guests who visit the spa will be encouraged to enter their name after every treatment to stand in line to win a surprise lucky draw prize at the end of the month.

To make a booking email spa@grannymouse.co.za or contact 033 234 4071.