When it comes to picking out the best bridesmaid dresses, it can be easy to fall into the trap of those shiny, creasy-style 80’s dresses.

Many brides think that it’s all just about their gown, but remember you are in many of the pictures together and the looks should complement each other. Granny Mouse Country House & Spa have hosted many a spectacular wedding, and know that the looks should always harmonize and make it unforgettable in the pictures and, of course, memories for all.

So, skip the cheesy puffy or long flowing dresses which are exactly the same colour and style, and look at amazing designs which can be simple and that your bridesmaids would love to wear again.

There is no hard and fast rule. You may be a bit of a rebel and love some rock n roll, so what about adding leather jackets to the dresses, especially if you know the weather is going to be a bit fresh. It is a great look and can be worn for years after.

If you are boho, country pumpkin, and bohemian at heart, and your bridesmaids don’t love wearing dresses, then what about a jump suit or pant suit, which will be so comfortable while they move around on the day. Wearing a classy jumpsuit is a great option, super comfy and, again, can be worn post wedding day. It’s a very fashion-forward option that’s also a breeze to wear. There are so many ways to style the jumpsuit; it’s a piece you can have fun with and afterwards, why not rock it with a denim jacket.

Who says bridesmaids have to look entirely identical? Another super idea is to include different shades or textures, as long as they share the same mood. Let your bridesmaids experiment – it will come out so well put together and also ensure it suits their respective body shape!

If you feel brave and trust your bridesmaids, let them chose their own dresses and let their personality shine though. It can create a truly unique look, having your bridesmaids choose their own dresses and let their personality shine. You’ll end up with an array of colourful bridesmaids and wonderful looking pictures as well. Just remember to plan ahead and know what they will be wearing before the big day.

Another unique option, that is not necessarily for everyone, but does pop up every so often, amongst the younger, hipper group – a bridesmaid suit. They can certainly make any wedding party look super chic. Of course, traditionally grooms and groomsmen wear suits, however, it is 2022, and so what’s to stop bridesmaids from wearing suits as well.

Good luck with choosing the bridesmaids ensembles, which can be everything and anything you want it to be. For any wedding assistance, don’t hesitate to contact the “Mouse House” wedding coordinators, who are on hand to provide any tips and solutions to your upcoming nuptials.

If the only time you have avocados is when you ask for extra guacamole, then you’re missing out on one of nature’s best beauty boosters!

Avocado has loads of hair and skin benefits – even if it sounds a little strange. Not only are avocados a nutritional powerhouse, they also have a myriad of benefits when applied to the skin, lending even the driest face a “lit-from-within” glow.

Beauty experts from Granny Mouse Country House & Spa give tips and tricks on just how beneficial avocado can be, and how you can either put it in your food or on your face, but we suggest you do both!

Avocado face mask – Not only are avocados high in healthy fats, they’re also an excellent source of vitamins C and E, both of which play a key role in the health and vitality of your skin. This DIY face mask recipe is for men and women alike! Whether your skin is dry from sun damage, razor burn or just the winter elements, this treatment replaces lost moisture and nutrients, such as essential fatty acids and vitamins.

Ingredients and supplies:

• 1 Hand towel
• 1 ripe avocado
• 1 Tbsp of mayonnaise (dry skin)
• 1 freshly squeezed lemon (oily skin)

Directions:

• Cleanse skin as normal.
• Using a fork, blend the fresh avocado in a bowl. If skin is extremely dry, add 1 Tbsp of mayonnaise. If skin is naturally moist or oily, only add the juice of 1 fresh lemon.
• Apply mask mixture to your face and throat and leave on for 10-15 minutes.
• Soak the hand towel in warm water, wring out and apply over your face, leaving space for your nose and mouth. Leave the towel on your face for a brief moment, then wipe away the mask using the towel.

The results from this mask should leave your skin noticeably softer and smoother and no matter what season it is, the goodness of avocado is perfect to treat dry skin.

Hair and scalp moisture pack – Avocados not only moisturize your scalp and hair; they also aid in de-stressing your hair, giving it a luminous shine. Here’s how to create the ultimate avocado hair and scalp mask pack.

Ingredients and supplies:

• 1 ripe avocado
• 1 freshly squeezed lemon
• A shower cap
• Your regular shampoo and conditioner

Directions:

• To prepare the mask, mash the flesh of the avocado in a bowl, squeeze the juice of half a lemon and stir.
• Wet hair with warm water in a sink or shower.
• Apply the avocado/lemon mixture by rubbing thoroughly into your hair and scalp. It’s best if your scalp is still warm so the natural avocado oils can penetrate more easily.
• Put a shower cap over your head to avoid staining and leave it on for 20 minutes.
• Rinse thoroughly, shampoo and follow with your favourite conditioner.

Avocado back rub – This avocado beauty tip is one to bookmark for a date-night surprise. This cleansing back rub relieves stress and tension while cleansing your significant other’s back, and supplying their skin with much needed moisture and nutrients. Essentially, this is a DIY couple’s massage using avocados.

Ingredients and supplies:

• 2 washcloths
• A Buffing cloth
• 2 ripe avocados
• 2 sheets of plastic wrap
• 4 moist towels
• Moisturizing body oil

Directions:

• Cleanse your partners back with a washcloth and then exfoliate using a buffing cloth.
• Apply the flesh of one ripe avocado over the entire back.
• Cover the avocado-smeared back with a sheet of plastic wrap then add a warm, then place the moist towel on top of the plastic.
• Rest for 15-20 minutes then remove the towel and plastic. Use another moist towel to wipe away the avocado.
• Apply moisturizing oil.
• Now it’s your turn! Hand these directions to your partner and repeat.

If you’re considering a special skincare treatment this Autumn, have a sneak peek at the Granny Mouse Country House & Spa’s spa menu by clicking on the link: https://grannymouse.co.za/our-spa