When many start planning their own wedding, thoughts of the ultimate guest list, and over the top wants, with the thinking that “bigger is better”, is not always the way to go. And with Covid thrown into the mix, it’s probably not the best idea.

We at Granny Mouse Country House & Spa believe there is something more memorable about having an intimate wedding with those who are really important to you, who have been there for you, and not about those who are just wanting to enjoy a party on your budget.

Granny Mouse’s General Manager, Sean Granger, provides some tips for that perfect intimate wedding.

The first tip: make it a destination wedding. You would far rather enjoy all of the wedding elements being in one place than having to trek from one place to the next. This would include the pre-wedding dress up, snacks, ceremony, pictures and that after-the-nuptials feast.

There is no need for mikes and loads of speeches, rather just include the important ones.

Have a table of unity where it captures the vibe of the area and scenery, especially for wedding numbers set from 10 – 20. Just the perfect no-stress wedding you could ever ask for. You can even experiment with different seating formats; consider picnic blankets, bean bags or alternating chairs.

For the foodies, the beauty of Granny Mouse and having a small wedding, is it allows you the budget to indulge in true culinary cuisine. The culinary artists at Granny Mouse are constantly creating bespoke foodie creations that will blow you away.

The best part about a small wedding at a bespoke destination is that no one needs to drive off into the night. With the Lockdown curfew in place, Granny Mouse offers luxury accommodation for wedding guests, so everyone can relax, take a few strides and head to their own bed, making for safe travels.

Whether you have a big or small wedding, why not explore all that the Midlands has to offer by enjoying a hot air balloon ride, visiting the quaint community farm stalls, finding local buys that are unique, indulging in some cheese, wine or beer tastings or just taking a walk in the countryside. This can all be done either before the wedding, to calm the nerves, or after the wedding, to allow you and your new spouse quality time together or additional time spent with family and friends. Whatever you choose, ensure it is the wedding you and your partner want, and that ends with your very own happily ever after.

To find out more about weddings and receptions at Granny Mouse Country House & Spa simply go to www.grannymouse.co.za or give them a call on 033 234 4071

References: https://www.mydomaine.com/small-wedding-ideas-4788070

Using just a few simple ingredients, making hand cream at home can be a fun and relaxing activity for kids, and even more fun for the moms trying to create a natural, chemical-free home for their family. Granny Mouse Country House and Spa beauty experts share some quick and super easy hand lotion recipes, made with all-natural ingredients that will revitalize your hands and make them smooth again. And, all the ingredients can be purchased at the grocery store, so no hunting around for specialist stores!

There are a few basic items you’ll need, as well as some optional essential oils to add fragrance to your liking. Prepare these items ahead of time so when you’re ready to make it, everything is ready for you.

Rose Lotion

Ingredients:

• Rose petals (a handful)
• 2 tbsp Organic Extra Virgin Coconut Oil
• 4 tbsp Olive Oil

* A lot of other natural homemade lotions have beeswax in them, but this lotion will turn out just fine without it.

Instructions:

• Shred rose petals into small pieces (this is the most fun part for the kids).
• Combine shredded rose petals, coconut oil and olive oil in a tall glass jar.
• Prepare a bowl of hot water and place the Rose Oil jar into the hot water bowl and mix.
• Keep it in there until the water cools off. (Warming the rose oil will help release the scent from the rose petals.)
• Use a strainer and let the kids strain the lotion into the allocated lotion container.

Review:

The lotion turns out very smooth and light. It applies to the skin easily and after a little rubbing, sinks in nicely. The skin feels moisturized. You can use it anywhere on your body, even as a lip gloss! It does smell like roses. Lightly. However, the longer you wait before straining the rose petals the more it will smell like roses.

Lavender Lotion

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup of shea butter
• 1/4 cup of coconut oil
• 1/4 cup of another oil (avocado oil, almond, jojoba, or even olive oil)
• 3 tbsp of corn starch
• 10 drops of Lavender Oil

Instructions:

• Melt shea butter, coconut oil, and the additional oil of choice on the stovetop until the mixture is liquified.
• Add the Lavender Oil and put the mixture into the fridge until it has solidified.
• Combine corn starch and water and add to your mixture.
• Pour the lotion into containers

Review:

This lotion is thicker but not excessive. The Lavender oil has anti-inflammatory properties that will nurture your skin and leave it feeling fresh. It is also safe enough to be used anywhere on the body.

Storing your hand creams

Your hand creams will stay good on the shelf for as long as three months. Store away from direct sunlight, heat sources or areas of high moisture for best quality.

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Source: https://playtivities.com/homemade-lotion-kids-make/