t is exciting to launch our maiden edition. To our readers, we say help is finally on

the way! This dream was born out of experience; it is extremely difficult to plan a wedding or event when you are unsure of what to do and where to get information.

Dream Wedding magazine is a publication that is tailored to help individuals plan their own wedding. It is also for wedding planners and event coordinators who are on the lookout for fresh and innovative ideas.

This edition includes tips on how to transform your wedding into a one-of-a-kind celebration. From concepts, to colours to textures, you will find interesting ways of making your wedding reflect who you both are.

Weddings are celebrated events all over the world. Though it is meant to be a happy occasion, planning it can take its toll on you. But despair not: Dream Wedding magazine is here to help ease the burden.

Our aim is to help you create an unforgettable experience. For couples, it is always nice to be the first to try new ideas that no one thought was possible. If you are planning a spectacular wedding, perhaps you should consider a wedding planner to help you organise the whole affair. But remember that this is YOUR day, and not theirs.

DW contains several resources on planning, executing and enjoying your wedding. Whether you are planning an indoor or outdoor event, it is important

to remember that you cannot have it all. Know your budget and have a basic idea; then let professionals and other suppliers assist you to put it all together.

We have brought several celebrated photographers, stylists, retailers, event planners and consultants together to offer you a magazine that will inspire. We welcome any ideas that can make our next issue even more inspirational. Send us some of your favourite wedding pictures, and any wedding stories you’d like to share. We’d love to have them in our next issue.

Enjoy our maiden edition!

Rayme and Ama

Every bride expects to be treated like a queen on her big day. Our featured gowns showcase contemporary styles that are fit for royalty.

Choosing the perfect gown can be challenging. DW provides some guidelines on what to consider – from cut, to colour to cost.

A step-by-step guide to achieving that stunningly beautiful look on your big day. Follow this monthly bridal health and beauty regimen to ensure you’re radiant on your wedding day.

Finding innovative wedding reception ideas can be a little difficult, in an age where many couples wish for their wedding to be special and truly creative. Here are ten tips that might inspire some creativity.

No matter what type of wedding you want, no matter the number of guests, and regardless of whether you are planning a lavish or thrifty wedding, a good wedding coordinator can be the key to creating the perfect day.

Don’t be afraid to try something new for your wedding - something that’s essentially you. Get inspiration from the things you love, like art, nature, interiors, fashion, or even music. More inside…

From The Editors

You want to look your best, stand out in the crowd; but you don’t want to outshine the bride. With so few shops specializing in African-inspired occasion-wear, finding the right outfit can be challenging. But help is at hand.

Finding the right wedding gift is never easy. If you want to surprise the couple with something more than recycled presents, you will need to look for something different, of the artifact kind.

Beads, beads and more beads. Signature traditional accessories like these can make all the difference if you want to go native and look your ‘African’ best.

A collection of memorable moments captured through the lens of professional photographer Rodney Quarcoo.

Having the perfect day without the perfect pictures to show for it would be a big shame. DW’s 12 questions for your photographer will ensure you make the right choice.

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Strapless mermaid silhouette gown

with French over lace, highlighted

with beaded crystals

gh¢ 700

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V-neck corset style bodice with

embroidered pick up skirt

gh¢ 700

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One shoulder A-line gown with

flower details at strap and waist

gh¢ 600

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Royal satin A-line gown with

scalloped train and detailed crystal

beading

gh¢ 600

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Strapless ball gown with beading

and lace accents

gh¢ 750

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Layered skirt with rosette; bodice

embellished with embroidery and

beading

gh¢ 750

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Collection: Photography:

Models:Location:

Make-Up:Jewellery:

Windsor Bridal, AccraRQV (Rodney Quarcoo Visuals)Celestine, Angela, Pat Behind the Arts Centre, Accra Renee QRenee Q

A-line empire waist gown with

pleated bodice

gh¢ 500

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ollow this monthly bridal health and beauty regimen to ensure you are radiant on your wedding day. Your

wedding might be the only day that you have all eyes on you.

Now for this special occasion you don’t just have to be beautiful; you need to look stunning! This will rarely happen overnight: you will have to plan your look over a considerable period of time.

Planning Your LookAs soon as you’ve found your dress, decide how you want to wear your hair and makeup for the big day. Start growing your hair if you think you’ll want it longer, or start looking for the extensions. Now is the time to test new looks. If you’re contemplating a drastic cut or colour change, do it early enough and leave time to get used to your new hairdo.

3 Months PriorHire your professionalsIf you are happy with your current stylist and want him or her to help style you for your wedding day, make sure he or she is available on that date. Otherwise, start looking for different stylists for the big day. Many hair stylists also offer makeup services as well.

Book your facial To ensure positively glowing skin on your wedding day, start a regimen of monthly facials.

Month AheadVisit your dentist One thing we often neglect is the appearance of our teeth. A beaming smile will help your confidence. It will also ensure that your wedding pictures look great. Book an appointment to have your teeth cleaned and polished.

Get a trial hairdo Visit your hair stylist one month prior to your wedding day. Make sure you have your veil and any hair pieces to complete the look.

Try out looksBook an appointment with your makeup artist for your trial look. Get him or her to make up only half your face, to help you compare the look to your natural appearance.

1 Week To GoCut and Colour If you choose to cut and colour your hair, the best time to do so is a few days before the wedding. This will ensure enough time to fix any last minute colour mishaps. Avoid doing anything too drastic.

Shape your hair “down there” Make a point to have a clean shave “down there”. You don’t want to be fumbling with razors on your honeymoon!

This may be awkward for some, but it’s important. Try to get all other hairs on the essential parts of your body waxed a few days before the big day (eyebrows, upper lip, legs etc).

Get your last facial Again, leave enough time for any acne or blemishes to fade.

Day BeforeFix your nailsGet your final manicure and pedicure the day before so nails can thoroughly dry. If you are not getting nail extensions for your wedding, get a bottle of your polish from the manicurist for any last minute touch-ups.

Pack a back-up kitInclude tissues, nail file, breath mints, bobby pins and nail polish. Get pressed powder and lipstick from your makeup artist.

Get that beauty sleep Avoid caffeine and exercise before attempting to go to bed. If you just can’t get enough shut-eye, freeze moistened green or white tea bags to put over your eyes. The tannins will help reduce any puffiness. If you don’t have teabags, you can put some slices of cucumbers on your eyes. This will work just as well. If you are restless and unable to sleep, prepare a warm cup of herbal tea (chamomile tea) to help you relax.

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{DreamMan}

Description: Pink selection of Malian marriage beads in a swing arrangementPrice: GH¢ 40

Bead Fashion by64

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Kofi began supplying galleries and boutiques in and around London with key pieces, widening his audience and exposure as well as providing customers with outlets through which they could purchase pieces. Due to its success, Asanti is now expanding, bringing its designs to Ghana. Asanti is currently looking for distinctive galleries and boutiques in major cities around the country who can identify with the quality and ethos that Asanti defines itself by.

Design

Asanti designs aim to offer an art less ordinary, fusing ethnic, African art to produce contemporary jewellery with a difference. Each collection conveys a meaningful significance, as they are all based on an emotion or a human feeling. Asanti’s mix of ethnic art creates designs that haves a cross-cultural appeal. With most designs being limited edition, Asanti are able to introduce new designs on a regular basis.

Asanti’s collections are based on African symbols as well as contemporary designs. The collections include rings, bracelets, earrings, chokers and necklaces for both men and women, and the company prides itself on craftsmanship of the highest possible standard as well as the exquisite finishing of ever single item.

The eKISS COLLECTION© was born from the memory of the first kiss of love.

The excitement of that moment is remembered and you take something from the person you kiss, a part of them that you keep with you always, from that moment on.

eKISS Ring © is crafted from solid 18K Yellow and White gold set with round brilliant cut Diamonds.

Etched wedding band available in 18K Yellow/White Gold & Silver.

Desire collection

In 18K Yellow & White Gold set with brilliant cut Diamonds.

Life Ring ©

Available inPlatinum/ 18 carat White Gold or Yellow Gold, set with three princess cutDiamonds.

Babylon Rings ©

Available inBlack Rhodium 18 carat Gold set with Diamonds.

Asanti was formed in 2004 by designer Kofi Asante who began his jewellery career working in Hatton Garden’s, London, the most prestigious jewellery quarter in the world. Throughout his time at the Garden, Kofi became more and more conscious of the inadequate ethnic and African jewellery available on the UK market. This prompted him to conduct research into the market. He discovered that the consistency and quality of products that were available were poor and customer satisfaction was low.

“We live in a multi cultural society but the jewellery industry does not cater for this. I wanted to blend differing cultures and designs to produce pieces that appeal to everyone – they have a cross culture appeal” Kofi Asante

Asanti’s website (www.asanti.co.uk), launched on the 1st of April 2005, showcases a wide range of collections in 18 carat yellow and white gold as well, as platinum and sterling silver. The site acts as an online portfolio for Asanti designs enabling customers to browse the jewellery from the comfort of their own homes and then contact the company for sales enquiries and information on special commissions.

Passionate Ring©When two individuals develop a mutual relationship, they create a special spiritual bond of trust and affection. This bond can only occur when two people are open with each other emotionally as well as psychologically.

The passionate ring holds a 50pt diamond, which is secured between the opening of the ring. This diamond symbolises the bond between two people and the way in which it is set reveals the characteristics of the beautiful stone.

The Passionate Ring© beautifully crafted. A token of friendship.

Passionate Ring©Available in18K Yellow & White gold, set with either 25pt/50pt/75pt or 1carat brilliant cut diamond.All Platinum/ White gold or Yellow gold, set with either 25pt/50pt/75pt or 1carat brilliant cut diamond.

Lock ©The flaws within our character often evoke feelings of anxiousness, embarrassment, shyness, fear, and self-doubt etc These feelings can always be suppressed or triumphed over by confronting our fears and being persistent to prevent negative thoughts filtering into our minds. Unlock your inhibitions and feel free to express yourself.

Lock is a ring with reversible centre

Available in Sterling Silver & 18K Yellow Gold, set with brilliant cut DiamondsBlack Rhodium on 18K White Gold & 18K Yellow Gold, set with brilliant cut Diamonds All 18K Yellow or White Gold, set with brilliant cut DiamondsAlso in client-preferred material.

Extravagant creations by