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    Bianca Muller

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    winter
    In Advice

    Potjies to pearls: Winter wedding trends you’ll love

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    Winter weddings have often played second fiddle to spring and summer celebrations, but that’s changing fast. Across South Africa, more couples are choosing cooler months for their big day, thanks to lower venue costs, cosy styling opportunities and a chance to embrace the season rather than fight it.

    According to Corné Alberts, National Marketing Manager at ANEW Hotels & Resorts, winter weddings continue to grow in popularity as couples look for celebrations that feel warm, intimate and memorable.

    If you’re planning a cold-weather “I do”, these are the biggest winter wedding trends in South Africa to keep on your radar.

    1. Tailored groom style is a hit

    For years, bridal fashion has dominated the spotlight, but winter is giving grooms their own fashion moment.

    Expect plenty of textured tweeds, tailored waistcoats, earthy colour palettes and classic English countryside-inspired styling. Think timeless rather than trendy, with accessories like pocket watches, patterned ties and flat caps adding personality without feeling over the top.

    The cooler weather also makes layering practical, allowing grooms to stay comfortable while looking polished throughout the day.

    2. Long-sleeve wedding dresses are having a moment

    Winter is the perfect excuse to wear a long-sleeved wedding dress without overheating.

    Delicate lace sleeves remain a favourite, while detachable sleeves are becoming increasingly popular for brides wanting two looks in one. They provide extra warmth during the ceremony before easily being removed for the reception and dancing later in the evening.

    It’s a practical trend that’s especially useful in regions where temperatures drop quickly after sunset.

    3. Midweek weddings continue to save couples money

    One of the biggest benefits of getting married in winter? Your budget stretches further.

    Many venues and suppliers offer lower rates from Monday to Thursday, allowing couples to spend more on the parts of the wedding that matter most to them. That could mean upgrading the menu, investing in beautiful floral arrangements, extending the honeymoon or simply reducing overall costs.

    Some couples are even splitting celebrations across several days, hosting the legal ceremony during the week before celebrating with family and friends over the weekend.

    4. Rich winter colour palettes replace all-white decor

    Winter weddings are embracing colour in a big way.

    Instead of traditional white-on-white styling, expect to see:

    • Burgundy
    • Deep plum
    • Forest green
    • Burnt terracotta
    • Warm neutrals

    Seasonal flowers also help bring these palettes to life. Proteas and fynbos are naturally in season during winter, making them both beautiful and cost-effective choices for South African weddings.

    5. Cosy details become part of the decor

    Guest comfort is becoming just as important as aesthetics.

    Rather than simply decorating a venue, couples are creating warm, inviting spaces with thoughtful touches such as:

    • Fireplaces and fire pits
    • Cosy lounge areas
    • Baskets of blankets
    • Candlelight
    • Warm welcome drinks

    These additions naturally encourage guests to gather, chat and linger throughout the celebration.

    6. Matcha and chai stations replace signature cocktails

    While cocktails aren’t disappearing completely, warm drinks are becoming a popular addition to winter wedding receptions.

    Coffee carts remain a favourite, but couples are also introducing:

    • Matcha lattes
    • Chai tea stations
    • Hot chocolate bars
    • Glühwein or mulled wine
    • Traditional Old Brown Sherry as a nostalgic South African welcome drink

    It’s a simple way to keep guests warm while adding another memorable detail to the day.

    7. Potjie pots are replacing traditional buffets

    Winter menus naturally lean towards comforting food, and the humble potjie is making a big comeback.

    Instead of light summer dishes, couples are opting for hearty favourites like:

    • Butternut soup served with fresh sourdough
    • Slow-cooked lamb potjie
    • Vegetable potjie
    • Fragrant curries
    • Rich desserts served warm

    Cooking over an open fire also creates a relaxed atmosphere, encouraging guests to gather around while dinner is prepared.

    8. Winter weather can be surprisingly reliable

    Although the Western Cape’s rainy season requires a backup plan, many inland regions enjoy dry, crisp winter days with clear blue skies.

    Couples marrying in Gauteng, the Free State, North West and parts of KwaZulu-Natal often choose winter specifically for its more predictable weather.

    For Cape weddings, umbrellas are becoming both a practical necessity and a stylish wedding favour should the weather decide to make an appearance.

    9. Winter weddings pair perfectly with romantic honeymoons

    Many couples are embracing the contrast of a cosy winter wedding followed by a sunny honeymoon overseas.

    Popular European destinations like Italy, Spain and Greece are enjoying their summer months while South Africa experiences winter, making July and August ideal for combining a local wedding with warm-weather travel abroad.

    Others are leaning into the season entirely, choosing luxury lodges with fireplaces, mountain cabins or spa retreats for a slower, more intimate honeymoon closer to home.

    Winter weddings are here to stay

    Winter weddings are no longer simply the budget-friendly alternative. They’re becoming a style choice in their own right.

    From dramatic colour palettes and comforting food to thoughtful guest experiences and timeless fashion, embracing the season can create a celebration that feels both personal and unforgettable.

    If you’re planning your wedding during South Africa’s cooler months, working with the season rather than against it could be the secret to creating a day your guests will remember long after the last dance.

    ALSO SEE: Before you book anything: The wedding planning order experts swear by

    Before you book anything: The wedding planning order experts swear by

    Feature image: Unsplash

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    engaged
    In Advice

    Just got engaged? Here’s why you don’t have to start planning your wedding straight away

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    One minute you’re admiring a ring on your finger. The next, everyone wants to know the date, the venue, the dress, the flowers, the guest list and whether you’ve chosen your first dance song.

    Slow down. Getting engaged is a milestone in its own right, not simply the starting line for wedding planning. Yet it’s remarkable how quickly the excitement of saying “yes” can be replaced by a never-ending stream of questions.

    “So… when’s the wedding?” For some couples, the answer comes easily. They’ve already been planning for months. Others would rather sit in this new chapter for a while before diving into spreadsheets, budgets and seating plans. And that’s more than okay.

    Your engagement deserves its own moment

    Think about it. The proposal itself is a story you’ll probably tell for decades. Maybe it happened on a mountain after an exhausting hike. Perhaps it was during a weekend away, over breakfast at home, or completely unexpectedly while walking the dog. Maybe everything went according to plan. Or maybe absolutely nothing did.

    Those imperfect moments often become the best stories. Long after the wedding photos have been framed, you’ll still laugh about the ring almost falling into the ocean, someone accidentally interrupting the proposal, or how nervous your partner was that they could barely get the words out. It’s worth taking the time to enjoy that chapter before rushing into the next one.

    There isn’t a deadline

    Social media can make it feel as though engagements follow a strict timeline. Announcement photos. Venue booked. Dress shopping. Countdown begins.

    Real life doesn’t work like that. Some couples marry within months. Others stay engaged for several years. Neither is more “correct” than the other.

    There are countless reasons why you might want to wait before planning a wedding. Maybe you’re saving for the celebration you really want. Perhaps you’ve just bought a home or are focused on your careers. There could be family commitments, health concerns or a new baby on the way. Or maybe there isn’t a reason at all.

    Maybe you’re simply enjoying being engaged. That’s reason enough.

    Weddings are expensive

    Let’s be honest. Weddings aren’t cheap. For many South African couples, planning a wedding also means saving for one. Rushing into deposits and big decisions before you’re financially comfortable can add unnecessary pressure to what’s supposed to be an exciting time.

    Waiting a year — or even longer — doesn’t make your engagement any less meaningful. If anything, it gives you time to plan the day you actually want, rather than the day you feel pressured to have.

    Set the pace together

    One of the best things you can do early on is decide, as a couple, what works for you.

    If you’re choosing to wait before planning, let people know politely but confidently. A simple “We’re enjoying being engaged for now, and we’ll share our plans when we’re ready” is often enough. Setting those boundaries now can make the entire wedding-planning journey feel a little less overwhelming later.

    Don’t skip this chapter

    It’s easy to think of an engagement as the bit between dating and getting married. But it deserves celebrating too.

    Go on dates. Take engagement photos if you want to. Wear the ring proudly. Tell your proposal story for the hundredth time.

    Dream about the future without feeling like every conversation has to end with a colour palette or venue tour. The wedding will come. For now, enjoy the fact that you’ve found your person. The planning can wait.

    ALSO SEE: Old soul, new sparkle: How modern couples are reimagining heirloom engagement rings

    Old soul, new sparkle: How modern couples are reimagining heirloom engagement rings

    Feature image: Unsplash

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    In Competitions

    Win a Karoo getaway worth over R7000 at Drostdy Hotel

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    If you’ve been craving a proper break, this is it. Set in the historic town of Graaff-Reinet, Drostdy Hotel blends classic Karoo character with understated luxury. The rooms are thoughtfully designed with local art and heritage touches, while the property itself unfolds into a series of courtyards, pools and quiet corners that make it easy to settle in and stay a while.

    win

    What you’ll win:

    • A two-night stay for two at Drostdy Hotel (bed & breakfast)
    • A wine-tasting experience
    • A 45-minute massage voucher

    win

    To enter:

    1. Follow Wedding Etc and Drostdy Hotel on Instagram.
    2. Tag a friend in this post on Instagram.
    Ts&Cs apply: Valid for 1 year from date of contact. Excludes peak and blackout dates. Subject to availability.

    Giveaway closes: 30 September 2026

    ALSO SEE: Durban’s most beautiful indoor wedding venues for every kind of celebration

    Durban’s most beautiful indoor wedding venues for every kind of celebration

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    wedding fashion
    In Advice

    DIY wedding fashion ideas for couples who want something different (and more affordable)

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    If the idea of a cookie-cutter wedding look feels a little… predictable, you’re not alone. More couples are stepping away from traditional bridalwear rules, not only to create something more personal, but also to keep costs down without sacrificing style.

    DIY wedding fashion is no longer just about crafty extras on the side. It’s becoming a full style approach for couples who want to experiment, repurpose, personalise and completely rethink what “wedding attire” is supposed to look like.

    Rethinking the wedding outfit entirely

    Before you even get to embellishments and accessories, the biggest shift is letting go of the idea that you need a traditional wedding dress or suit. Here are some alternative ways couples are building their looks:

    High-street + handmade mix
    Pair an affordable base piece with DIY details like altered hems, added sleeves or custom trims.

    Second-hand styling
    Thrifted dresses, vintage suits or even family heirlooms become the starting point for something completely new.

    Non-bridal pieces
    Think slip dresses, tailored trousers, jumpsuits, oversized shirts or even coordinated two-piece sets. If it fits well and feels good, it works.

    Rent and reinvent
    Start with a rental piece and personalise it temporarily with accessories, layering or detachable add-ons.

    The magic is in the customisation

    This is where DIY really comes alive. Small changes can completely transform a simple outfit into something that feels designer-level personal.

    Alterations with attitude
    Shorten a hem, add a slit, change a neckline or restructure sleeves. A good seamstress can turn “almost right” into perfect.

    Colour experimentation
    Soft dyeing, dip-dye effects or subtle tinting can take a plain white or cream piece into something far more interesting.

    Fabric layering
    Add sheer overlays, lace panels, organza skirts or detachable capes for movement and drama without buying a whole new outfit.

    Statement accessories that don’t break the bank

    Accessories are where DIY wedding fashion becomes fun instead of stressful.

    Veils with personality
    Add embroidery, printed phrases, coloured edges or even hand-sewn motifs that mean something to you as a couple.

    Repurposed jewellery
    Turn old family jewellery into hairpins, brooches or necklace details instead of buying new.

    DIY belts and waist details
    A simple ribbon, scarf or vintage chain can completely change the silhouette of a dress or suit.

    Handmade bags or pouches
    Small clutch bags can be painted, beaded or stitched with initials or wedding dates.

    Groom and groom-style DIY ideas too

    This isn’t just a bridal moment — it’s for anyone getting married.

    Custom suit lining
    A subtle but powerful detail: add prints, messages or meaningful fabric inside a jacket.

    Personalised ties and bow ties
    From bold patterns to embroidered initials or even inside jokes.

    Statement socks or shoes
    Colour, print or custom embroidery hidden under a formal look keeps things playful.

    Reworked vintage suits
    Oversized vintage tailoring can be altered into modern, perfectly fitted wedding wear at a much lower cost.

    Shoes that don’t behave (in the best way)

    Wedding shoes are often overpriced for what they are — which makes them perfect for DIY transformation.

    • Paint plain heels or sneakers to match your theme
    • Add pearls, rhinestones or fabric flowers
    • Replace laces with satin ribbons or velvet ties
    • Use fabric scraps from your outfit for cohesion
    • Restore vintage shoes and modernise them with small details

    Comfort matters too — especially if you’re planning to dance all night.

    Unexpected DIY fashion ideas

    If you really want to step away from tradition, these ideas push things further:

    Convertible outfits
    A skirt that comes off, sleeves that detach, or a cape that transforms your silhouette from ceremony to reception.

    Statement jackets for both partners
    Denim, leather or tailored blazers painted or embroidered with your story.

    Temporary fashion details
    Temporary tattoos, face gems or body art that match your wedding theme.

    Hidden messages
    Embroidery inside garments, stitched dates or secret notes only you know about.

    DIY fashion that actually saves money

    Not every DIY idea is about artistry — some are simply practical.

    • Buying second-hand and altering instead of buying new
    • Using one outfit in multiple ways with detachable layers
    • Sharing styling pieces between ceremony and reception
    • Renting key garments and customising them lightly
    • Choosing simple base pieces and upgrading them with DIY detail instead of designer labels

    It all adds up — especially when weddings already come with a long list of expenses.

    ALSO SEE: Buying vs hiring your wedding dress in South Africa: The 2026 bride’s guide to cost, style & smart choices

    Buying vs hiring your wedding dress in South Africa: The 2026 bride’s guide to cost, style & smart choices

    Feature image: Pexels

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    slick back bridal hairstyle
    In Hair

    Stunning slick back bridal hairstyles

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    The slick back bridal hairstyle has become a firm favourite among modern brides, offering a look that is equal parts elegant, sophisticated, and chic.

    A slicked-back style creates the perfect canvas to showcase everything from statement earrings to dramatic veils and delicate hair accessories. Better yet, this versatile trend works beautifully across all hair lengths and textures — from cropped pixie cuts and chic bobs to flowing mid-length styles and long, luxurious locks.

    The beauty of a slick back hairstyle lies in its simplicity. It highlights your facial features, photographs beautifully from every angle, and can be adapted to suit almost any bridal aesthetic. Think sleek low buns, glossy ponytails, modern chignons, wet-look finishes, and even softly slicked styles paired with loose curls.

    If you’re searching for a timeless wedding hairstyle with a fashion-forward edge, these slick back bridal hairstyles are guaranteed to inspire your walk down the aisle.

    ALSO SEE: Short hair, major impact: Proof that short hair makes the chicest bridal statement 

    Short hair, major impact: Proof that short hair makes the chicest bridal statement

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    ring bearer
    In Advice

    10 Creative ring bearer ideas we love

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    The ring bearer may have one small job on your wedding day, but that doesn’t mean they can’t make a big impression. While the traditional pageboy carrying a satin pillow remains a classic choice, modern couples are finding increasingly creative ways to get their rings down the aisle.

    These cute ring bearer ideas are guaranteed to get guests smiling:

    Let your dog steal the show

    If your venue allows pets, why not let your furry family member take centre stage? A dog wearing a floral collar, bow tie or custom ring pouch can make for one of the most memorable moments of the ceremony.

    Just make sure you have a designated handler nearby in case your four-legged ring bearer gets distracted by guests (or snacks).

    Pass the rings through the crowd

    One trend that’s been gaining popularity is turning the ring delivery into an interactive experience. Attach the rings securely to a ribbon or string and have guests pass them along the rows until they reach the front.

    It’s fun, symbolic and a great way to make everyone feel involved in the ceremony.

    A ring security team

    This idea never fails to get laughs. Dress your ring bearers in suits and sunglasses and give them “Ring Security” badges or briefcases.

    Bonus points if they walk down the aisle with serious expressions while guests try not to laugh.

    Deliver them in a mini vehicle

    For outdoor weddings, consider a miniature ride-on car, wagon or even a toy tractor carrying the rings.

    This works particularly well for rustic, farm and garden weddings and makes for adorable photos.

    A flower girl and ring bearer combo

    Why choose one when you can combine both roles? Have your flower girl and ring bearer walk down the aisle together, sharing the responsibility.

    It’s especially sweet for siblings, cousins or close family friends.

    A ring bearer sign

    Instead of carrying a pillow, your ring bearer can carry a sign with a message such as:

    • “Here Comes Your Forever”
    • “The Rings Are Here”
    • “Last Chance to Run”
    • “Almost Married”

    The sign can add personality and a touch of humour to the ceremony.

    Rings in a treasure chest

    Perfect for beach weddings, travel-inspired celebrations or couples who love adventure.

    A small wooden treasure chest adds a unique touch while keeping the rings secure.

    Grandparents as ring bearers

    Who says ring bearers have to be children? More couples are choosing grandparents for the role, creating a meaningful moment that often leaves guests reaching for tissues.

    It’s a beautiful way to honour an important family member.

    Let your cat participate

    While admittedly more challenging than a dog, some couples have successfully included their feline friends in the ceremony.

    If your cat enjoys attention and travel, a decorated pet stroller can help them make a grand entrance.

    A drone delivery

    For tech-loving couples, drones have even been used to deliver wedding rings.

    This option requires careful planning, venue approval and a backup plan, but it’s certainly unforgettable.

    ALSO SEE: Lab-grown vs natural diamonds: The ring question couples are asking in 2026

    Lab-grown vs natural diamonds: The ring question couples are asking in 2026

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    blake
    In Celebs

    Love Is Blind’s Giannina Gibelli and The Bachelorette’s Blake Horstmann tie the knot in Croatia

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    Reality TV favourites Giannina Gibelli and Blake Horstmann are officially married. According to People, the Love Is Blind star and The Bachelorette alum celebrated their wedding with a multi-day destination affair in Croatia, surrounded by close friends, family and fellow reality TV personalities.

    The couple exchanged vows on 20 June in Rovinj, a picturesque coastal town on Croatia’s Istrian Peninsula. Nearly 100 guests attended the celebrations, which stretched across several days and even included a stop in Venice, Italy, before the wedding weekend officially began.

    Why Croatia?

    For Gibelli, the destination held special significance. The reality star reportedly fell in love with Croatia years before meeting Horstmann and always envisioned getting married there. The celebrations began in Venice, where guests enjoyed a welcome gathering before making their way to Croatia for the main event.

    A family-centred ceremony

    The outdoor ceremony took place on St. Andrew’s Island, just off the coast of Rovinj. Gibelli walked down the aisle in a couture gown by Galia Lahav, while Horstmann was accompanied by his mother. One of the sweetest details of the day was the inclusion of the couple’s two-year-old son, Heath, who served as ring bearer.

    A love story that started on reality TV

    While both found fame on different reality dating shows, Gibelli and Horstmann actually met while filming All Star Shore in 2022. Their relationship quickly blossomed, leading to the birth of their son Heath in 2024. Later that year, Horstmann proposed during a romantic trip to Madrid.

    ALSO SEE: Sue Duminy shares her engagement news

    Sue Duminy shares her engagement news

    Source: People

    Feature image: Giannina/Instagram

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    monofloral bouquet
    In Advice

    The rise of single-flower bridal bouquets

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    Wedding florals are getting simpler. The clearest expression of that shift is the monofloral bouquet: a bouquet made using only one type of flower, repeated and styled as a single statement.

    Instead of mixed arrangements, brides (including a growing number of celebrities) are opting for this stripped-back approach. Roses only. Tulips only. Calla lilies only. The result is far more minimal than traditional bridal bouquets.

     

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    A post shared by R Í V A B R I D A L (@_rivabridal)

    For years, wedding bouquets leaned into variety which consisted of layered textures, seasonal mixes, trailing greenery. The direction now is the opposite. Monofloral bouquets remove the mix entirely. The focus shifts to shape, repetition, and uniformity rather than contrast.

     

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    A post shared by ENTRE TALLOS (@entre.tallos)

    The most popular choices

    Certain flowers are being used repeatedly in monofloral bouquets:

    • Roses
    • Tulips
    • Calla lilies
    • Hydrangeas
    • Baby’s breath (gypsophila)

    Each option works because it holds its form well when used in repetition.

     

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    A post shared by THE WEDDING BLISS (@theweddingbliss)

    The styling logic

    The monofloral bouquet relies on precision. With no mix of blooms to create interest, shape and execution become the focus.

    Common styling choices include:

    • Monochrome palettes
    • Tight, structured bouquet shapes
    • Minimal wrapping (silk ribbon or exposed stems)
    • Repetition carried through bridesmaids or ceremony florals

    ALSO SEE: Veil trends dominating 2026

    Veil trends dominating 2026

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    die kantoor
    In Celebs

    Die Kantoor actress Daniah de Villiers gets engaged in surprise hike proposal

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    What started as an ordinary anniversary hike in the Western Cape turned into a moment Daniah de Villiers will likely never forget. The Die Kantoor actress thought she was heading out for a relaxed walk with her partner, but instead walked straight into a carefully planned surprise proposal.

    By the end of the trail, her longtime partner Joshua Farrer had turned an everyday outdoor moment into something far more meaningful (and very emotional).

    A proposal that didn’t go exactly to plan

    Behind the scenes, the proposal wasn’t as effortless as it may have looked. According to Farrer, there were a few close calls while planning the surprise. Timing had to be carefully managed, and keeping everything under wraps wasn’t always easy.

    On top of that, the Western Cape weather added its own unpredictability to the day. Grey skies came and went, shifting the mood and forcing a bit of flexibility in the plan. Still, despite the uncertainty, everything eventually aligned at the right moment.

     

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    A post shared by Joshua Farrer (@joshua_farrer)

    Why the Western Cape keeps delivering these moments

    It’s not hard to understand why so many proposals happen in the Western Cape. The landscapes do a lot of the work — mountains, trails, and that ever-changing light that makes everything feel a little more cinematic than real life.

    This engagement fits right into that setting.

    ALSO SEE: What every bride-to-be should know about white gold engagement rings

    What every bride-to-be should know about white gold engagement rings

    Feature image: Daniah de Villiers/Instagram

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