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    Bianca Muller

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    In Dates

    Free things to do on your birthday across South Africa

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    Take advantage of a special occasion and turn it into a memorable date. Whether you’re celebrating your birthday or planning something thoughtful for your partner’s, South Africa is full of experiences that feel indulgent without the hefty price tag. From a cableway ride up Table Mountain to silver-screen magic under the stars, these birthday-friendly treats are perfect for celebrating love without blowing the budget.

    Free things to do on your birthday across South Africa:

    1. Table Mountain Aerial Cableway

    Whether you’re a local or a visitor, ascending the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway is always a delightful experience. While it may not be budget-friendly for locals at R420 per adult for a morning departure, there’s a silver lining – once a year, you get to enjoy the ride for free.

    During the entire calendar month of your birthday, you can present your proof of ID and receive a complimentary return ticket to the summit. The beauty of this offer is that you can use the free birthday ticket on any day within that month, even if it precedes your actual birthdate. Unfortunately, this birthday perk is exclusive to South Africans. Additionally, it’s important to note that children must accompany an adult when redeeming their birthday tickets, and the complimentary ticket is valid solely for the individual celebrating their birthday.

    Address: Tafelberg Rd, Gardens, Cape Town, 8001

    2. Harties Cableway

    Why not savour breathtaking views from exhilarating heights at Harties Cableway on your birthday? Simply bring your ID to confirm your special day, and you’ll receive a complimentary cable car ride! It’s a delightful way to start your birthday on a high note. Once you reach the summit, you’ll discover a host of other adventures and attractions to ensure your visit is truly memorable.

    Address: Plot 3, Melodie Melodie Agricultural Holdings, Hartbeespoort, 0260

    3. Two Oceans Aquarium

    Residents can enjoy special perks at the Two Oceans Aquarium in the V&A Waterfront, receiving complimentary admission on their birthday and the subsequent six days. Regrettably, this offer is exclusive to South African residents and is not extended to tourists.

    To claim the free ticket, the birthday celebrant needs to visit the Aquarium’s ticket office, presenting valid proof of identification. This offer is applicable to individuals aged four and above. It’s important to note that tickets cannot be obtained in advance and must be utilised on the same day they are collected.

    Address: Dock Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town, 8002

    4. Gold Reef City Theme Park

    Celebrate your birthday at the always-popular and adventure-packed Gold Reef City Theme Park! Secure your group’s tickets online and bring proof of your birthday, such as your ID or driver’s license. Immerse yourself in the joy of over 50 thrilling rides and attractions on your special day.

    In the event that your birthday coincides with a closed day for the theme park (currently Monday to Wednesday), take advantage of the free birthday entry offer by visiting on the closest Sunday to your birthdate. Please note that this offer is valid exclusively for the nearest Sunday. While no prior online booking is necessary for the birthday person, it is essential for family and friends accompanying you on the day.

    Address: Northern Pkwy & Data Cres, Johannesburg, 2159

    5. The Cape Wheel

    Perched in its new position with a scenic backdrop of Granger Bay, the Cape Wheel offers mesmerizing vistas of the Waterfront, city center, and Table Mountain. Complete the straightforward online form, and upon your birthday, receive a complimentary ride voucher valid for the next 30 days. Just print out the voucher and, along with proof of ID, present it at the Cape Wheel ticket booth.

    In case you miss the advance sign-up, fret not. On your actual birthday, you can effortlessly show up with proof of ID to redeem your free ride.

    Address: The Lawns, Breakwater Blvd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town, 8001

    6. Bothongo Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve

    On your special day, Bothongo Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve are offering you the present of adventure with a free Self-Drive experience at the reserve! The complimentary entry ticket is applicable solely on your birthday, so remember to bring your ID for ticket validation.

    Address: 520 Kromdraai Road, Kromdraai, Krugersdorp, 1739

    7. Ster-Kinekor Movie

    While there’s a bit of administrative work involved, if you’re a movie enthusiast, the effort is worthwhile to snag your complimentary movie ticket at Ster-Kinekor Theatres. To get started, you’ll need to apply (at no cost) and become a member of the SK Club, which you can do here.

    After a few simple clicks, you can then login online or drop by your nearest Ster-Kinekor box office to claim a free 2D or 3D birthday movie ticket. Keep in mind that the ticket is only valid for movies released a week before and up to seven days after your birthday.

    Address: Branches across South Africa

    8. SKY-HI Ride

    Conquer a 35-meter tall tower! Experience a free-fall at nearly 100 km/h. Endure 4Gs of force on your body. If these numbers don’t deter you from the exhilarating SKY-HI Ride atop the Hotel Sky in downtown Cape Town, then seize the opportunity to claim your complimentary birthday ticket for this unique ride, the only one of its kind in Africa.

    To secure your free ticket, make an online reservation using this link. Fortunately, the ticket is valid for any day throughout the month of your birthday.

    Address: 28th Floor, Hotel Sky, 9 Lower Long St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8001

    9. Galileo Open-Air Cinema

    This outdoor cinematic experience, widely embraced throughout Cape Town, features screenings at selected venues in the city and across the Cape Winelands.

    During the Galileo summer season, spanning from November to April, you can avail yourself of the Galileo Birthday Special within your birthday week, commencing on a Monday and concluding on a Sunday. Simply present proof of ID or birth during your Birthday Week at the entrance to enjoy complimentary entry, a backrest, and a blanket.

    Even if a show is sold out, Galileo ensures accommodation for the birthday person. However, individuals accompanying the celebrant are advised to pre-book tickets to avoid disappointment, as no on-site sales are permitted when a show is sold out.

    Check out their venues here.

    ALSO SEE: A romantic Valentine’s Day at Brookdale Estate

    A romantic Valentine’s Day at Brookdale Estate

    Written by Maegan-Leigh Jacobs for Food&Home.

    Feature image: Jonathan Borba/Unsplash

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    In Celebs

    Amor Vittone is engaged

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    Singer, businesswoman and media personality Amor Vittone is engaged. The star shared the happy news on social media on 28 January, posting a photo of her elegant engagement ring alongside the simple, heartfelt caption: “I said yes.”

    The announcement was met with an outpouring of love, as fans and friends celebrated a new chapter for the multi-talented performer, who has long been a familiar and much-loved face in South African media. She is also widely known as the former wife of late Springbok rugby legend Joost van der Westhuizen

    A love story that began in pretoria

    Amor Vittone’s fiancé is Marius van Biljon, a businessman, radio presenter and MC. The couple first crossed paths at Captain’s Island, Van Biljon’s family restaurant in Pretoria.

    Their connection began professionally when Vittone performed at the restaurant, but it didn’t end there. She later returned for a Women’s Day celebration, and it was during these encounters that something more meaningful started to take shape.

    Finding love after loss

    For Van Biljon, this engagement marks a deeply significant new beginning. He was previously married to Shannon van Biljon, the late Mrs Pretoria Tshwane 2023, who passed away in July 2025 following a brief illness related to early-stage kidney failure.

    The couple recently spoke about their story in an interview on Jacaranda FM, offering listeners a glimpse into how their relationship grew organically.

    ALSO SEE: Locally loved flowers for your wedding bouquet

    Locally loved flowers for your wedding bouquet

    Feature image: Amor Vittone/Facebook

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    valentine's day
    In Dates

    A romantic Valentine’s Day at Brookdale Estate

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    Valentine’s Day in the Cape Winelands falls at the height of summer, when harvest season brings energy to the vineyards and evenings are made for lingering over good food and wine. February is a naturally social month, and at Brookdale Estate in the Paarl Winelands, it is marked by thoughtful dining experiences and seasonal moments designed for couples.

    With food, wine and setting at its core, Brookdale Estate offers a considered way to celebrate Valentine’s Day, whether through a long lunch, an intimate dinner or a relaxed evening spent watching the sun set over the vineyards.

    Valentine’s Day dining at The Bistro

    On Friday, 14 February, The Bistro at Brookdale Estate invites couples to celebrate Valentine’s Day with its a la carte Summer Menu, available for both lunch and dinner. Guests are welcomed with a complimentary glass of Mason Road Serendipity rosé, setting the tone for a relaxed yet considered dining experience.

    For dinner, live music by Leigh Hondy adds to the atmosphere, creating a softly romantic backdrop that enhances the evening without overwhelming it. Seasonal dishes, thoughtful wine pairings and vineyard views encourage an unhurried celebration of the day.

    valentine's day

    Sunset dinners in February

    Romance at Brookdale Estate extends beyond Valentine’s Day itself with the return of the Sunset Dinner Series, running throughout February and continuing every Wednesday and Thursday evening until 26 March.

    With two sittings at 17:30 and 19:30, these evenings invite guests to linger over seasonal menus as the sun dips behind the vineyards. It is one of the Winelands’ simplest pleasures and an ideal way to enjoy summer evenings together.

    Celebrating Syrah and the harvest season

    valentine's day

    Wine remains central to the Brookdale experience, and Syrah Day on 16 February offers another reason to visit during Valentine’s month. Guests are encouraged to explore the estate’s Tasting Room, open Tuesdays to Sundays, where the 2024 Mason Road Syrah takes centre stage.

    Recently awarded four stars in the 2025 Platter’s by Diners Club South African Wine Guide, the wine reflects both elegance and structure and marks a proud achievement for the Brookdale winemaking team during harvest season.

    A milestone month at Brookdale Estate

    February also marks a celebratory milestone for The Bistro, which turns three years old on Sunday, 1 February. Guests joining for lunch are welcomed with a complimentary glass of bubbly, offered as a thank you following recent recognition as a Top 10 Destination Restaurant in the Cape by The Inside Guide and a Top 20 Restaurant in South Africa for 2025 by Dineplan.

    ALSO SEE: Locally loved flowers for your wedding bouquet

    Locally loved flowers for your wedding bouquet

    Images: Supplied

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    In Advice

    5 Things to do after you get engaged

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    Calling the family and posting on the Gram? Duh! But what else should you do after he’s popped the question?

    1 CELEBRATE!

    This doesn’t have to be a full-on engagement party just yet. In the days after you announce your impending nuptials, your phone will be buzzing off the hook with well-wishers hoping to see you as soon as possible and hear all about how he got down on one knee. So plan a little get-together to pop bottles with your nearest and dearest and tell them everything. Or, if you are a more low-key kind of couple, simply have a special night for two to revel in all the butterflies you’re feeling at the moment. Being engaged is a wonderful time. Enjoy it to the fullest.

    2 GET YOUR RING INSURED (AND SIZED!)

    The months leading up to your wedding are going to be split between days of pure joy and days of pure admin… So. Much. Admin. First up: You now have a small fortune on your finger, so be sure to protect your new asset and get it insured. Your guy should’ve been supplied with a valuation certificate upon purchase, but if not, take it to any reputable jeweller to get a value estimate. Send this to your insurance company to get it covered in case it gets lost or stolen. And while you’re at it, have it sized perfectly for your finger to make losing it less likely.

    3 SET A (VAGUE) DATE

    After “Let me see the ring!” and “How did he propose?”, the next most asked question you’ll get at this stage is “When’s the wedding?”. Unless you know exactly how it’s going to go down to the very last detail on a sunny day in February, you probably haven’t even thought about a date. Chat to your hubby-to-be and come up with a ‘thereabouts’ answer. Whether it’s “next summer” or “in three years’ time”, giving people some sort of timeline will ease the bombardment while also letting your guests mentally save the date.

    4 DETERMINE THE TYPE OF WEDDING

    Small getaway wedding or the do of the year at an exclusive wine farm? Figuring this out with your man is the best starting point of the planning to come, as it will help you determine everything from what venues to look at, to your all-important budget and guest list size.

    5 GATHER INSPIRATION

    Real talk time. Everyone from Chatty Cathy at the office to your mom and well-meaning-but-pushy friends are going to start pressuring you to begin planning. There’s so much to do, after all. Yes, Cathy, there is… but there’s no need to jump into contacting vendors and venues now if you don’t have the basics decided yet. You’ll cut down on a lot of wasted time if you know what you want before getting stuck in. Get on Pinterest and flip through wedding magazines. This is the fun part! Make a mood board with the images you love and you’ll soon start to see your dream day to come to life. Once you know what you want, seeking out the right vendors for you will be that much easier.

    BOOK AN ENGAGEMENT SHOOT

    Photographers get snapped up way in advance, so if this is a route you want to go down – book it now! Otherwise, call on your creative friends to help set up a photoshoot of the two of you on the beach, in a forest, or even at home just being yourselves. Smartphone cameras are more than enough to get some amazing shots (don’t forget the dreamy filters!).

    ALSO SEE: Locally loved flowers for your wedding bouquet

    Locally loved flowers for your wedding bouquet

    Written by Andrea Robertson for Summer 2019 print edition.

    Feature image: Pexels

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    In Beauty

    2016 Make-up trends we’re loving (and recreating) in 2026

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    Since 2026 is basically 2016! If you been scrolling on social media, you heard this before and if the same applies for fashion and beauty, then 2026 is officially our 2016 renaissance. From the return of full glam moments to familiar product textures and techniques resurfacing on our feeds, nostalgic make-up is having a major comeback.

    But this time, it’s wiser, softer, and far more intentional.

    Think less copy-paste YouTube tutorial, more elevated throwback. Here’s how to recreate iconic 2016 make-up looks – while making them feel unmistakably 2026.

    Why 2016 make-up feels so comforting right now

    2016 make-up was expressive, confident, and unapologetically glamorous. It was the era of contour palettes, bold brows, matte lips, and baking that lasted all day. In a time when beauty trends have swung between ultra-minimalism and “clean girl” restraint, the return of nostalgic make-up feels like a rebellion – and a reminder that make-up can be fun again.

    But in 2026, we’re not chasing perfection. We’re chasing polish without pressure.

    2016 make-up staples that are back (and how to update them)

    1. Full coverage skin – but make it skin-like

    2016 was all about matte, full-coverage foundation with intense baking. In 2026 there is a soft-focus, breathable coverage that still perfects.

    Opt for serum-infused or satin-finish foundations that blur without masking your skin. Conceal strategically instead of baking heavily. Use a light dusting of powder only where needed – think under eyes and T-zone, not the entire face.

    The goal: perfected skin that still looks alive.

    2. Contour is back – but less obvious

    Remember the sharp, cool-toned contour stripes! Well we will see it again in a creamy, blended, almost undetectable sculpting way.

    Use cream contour products and blend upward for a lifted effect. Choose shades closer to your natural shadow rather than overly grey tones. Bronzer and contour now live in harmony rather than competition.

    Think: “Did she contour or is she just naturally sculpted?”

    3. Brows: From blocky to brushed

    The bold, carved-out Instagram brows lived rent free on our faces but now its all about full, fluffy brows with structure.

    Keep the fullness, lose the harsh edges. Use hair-like strokes, brow gels, and a softer tail. The brow is still a statement—just no longer shouting.

    4. Eyes are dramatic again – but diffused

    There was not a day that went by without a cut crease, heavy liner and false lashes. But now, a smoked-out definition with softer contrast is what we will be seeing.

    Trade stark cut creases for blended shadows and subtle gradients. Brown or charcoal liner replaces jet black. Lashes are lighter, fluttery, and more individual than strip-lash heavy.

    It’s drama with depth, not heaviness.

    5. Matte lips return – with comfort

    2016 we saw dry, ultra-matte liquid lipsticks and in 2026 its about the soft-matte and blurred lip finishes.

    Choose velvet or mousse textures that move with your lips. Overline subtly and blur the edges for a lived-in effect. Bonus points for nourishing formulas that don’t crack by midday.

    Nostalgia, but hydrated.

    6. Highlighter gets a reality check

    The was a time when blinding, reflective highlighter visible from space was a daily wear. Now, in 2026 the glassy glow that melts into skin is the look that everyone will be adopting.

    Cream and balm highlighters replace powder. Apply with fingers for a skin-fused finish. The glow is still there—it just whispers instead of screams.

     

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    A post shared by Danielle Estrada (@danielllestrada)

    The 2026 rule: Intentional nostalgia

    What separates 2016 from 2026 is intention. In 2016, we did make-up because we could. In 2026, we do it because it aligns with our mood, our energy, and our lifestyle.

    This era is about:

    • Fewer products, better formulas
    • Blending over baking
    • Soft edges over sharp lines
    • Confidence over perfection

    ALSO SEE: Looking for wedding hairstyle inspo for all hair lengths? We’ve got you covered

    Looking for wedding hairstyle inspo for all hair lengths? We’ve got you covered

    Written by Amy Steenkamp for Woman&Home.

    Feature image: Pexels

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    In Advice

    Why personal vows are stealing the spotlight

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    Growing up, I remember watching old wedding videos of my parents, uncles and aunts. Recorded on bulky video tapes that required patience and a steady hand to rewind. While fashion, cakes and decor have clearly evolved, one thing remained constant across every recording. The traditional vows.

    Decades later, vows are still the emotional anchor of a wedding day. Yet how couples choose to share them has changed. While traditional wording remains popular, many modern couples are embracing personal vows.

    There is something deeply romantic about that choice.

    For some, speaking deeply personal words in front of a room full of people feels daunting. Private personal vows remove that pressure, allowing couples to speak honestly, emotionally and without restraint.

    Personal vows can take many forms. Some couples choose to exchange them during a first look, before the ceremony begins. Others prefer to write their vows in letters, read quietly on the morning of the wedding or the day before. Choosing to keep personal vows private does not mean excluding guests from the meaning of the ceremony. Many couples still choose to exchange traditional vows in front of loved ones, allowing their commitment to be witnessed, while saving their most personal words for a moment shared only between the two of them.

    This shift also reflects a broader change in how couples approach their weddings. Less about tradition for tradition’s sake, and more about intention. Personal vows, whether shared publicly or privately, become less of a performance and more of a genuine exchange.

    What makes personal vows so compelling is not when or where they are shared, but the freedom they offer. There are no rules, no required wording and no audience to consider.

    Whether spoken aloud, written down or quietly exchanged, personal vows remind us that at the heart of every wedding is a promise. And sometimes, the most powerful promises are the ones shared in private.

    ALSO SEE: Looking for wedding hairstyle inspo for all hair lengths? We’ve got you covered

    Looking for wedding hairstyle inspo for all hair lengths? We’ve got you covered

    Feature image: Pexels

     

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    In Beauty

    Looking for wedding hairstyle inspo for all hair lengths? We’ve got you covered

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    For many women, the wedding hairstyle is one of the first details to take shape once the engagement ring is on. It sets the tone for the overall bridal look, influencing everything from the dress silhouette to the veil or hair accessories that follow.

    This image-led edit brings together wedding hairstyle inspiration for most hair types and lengths, with visuals designed to guide the mood rather than dictate the rules.

    Short hair

    Buzzcuts, bobs and everything in between prove that long hair isn’t the only option for wedding hairstyles. There are plenty of ways to work with shorter lengths to create chic, polished or playful looks.

    Medium length and long hair

    Medium and long hair naturally lends itself to more styling options, from effortless updos and loose waves to bedazzled or understated, natural looks.

     

    ALSO SEE: Keep your hair healthy on your summer honeymoon

    Keep your hair healthy on your summer honeymoon

    Feature image: Jonathan Boba/Pexels

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    In BRIDESMADES DRESSES

    The wedding colour trend that quietly won us over in 2025

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    Soft neutrals will always have a place in weddings, but 2025 has welcomed a richer shade into the spotlight. Chocolate brown has emerged as a key wedding colour trend. Now, we must admit, brown wasn’t at the top of our list of favourite colours, but seeing how it has been used at weddings made us fall in love a little.

    Why chocolate brown works for weddings

    Chocolate brown strikes a rare balance. It feels warm without overpowering a palette and refined without feeling cold. As a wedding colour trend, it offers something different while still photographing beautifully and ageing well over time.

    It also complements a wide range of skin tones and transitions effortlessly between seasons, making it a strong choice for couples wanting to move beyond predictable whites and beiges without committing to bold colour.

    Bridesmaid dresses in chocolate brown

    wedding colour trend
    Photo: Birdie Grey/Pinterest

    Bridesmaid dresses are one of the easiest and most impactful ways to incorporate this wedding colour trend. Chocolate brown is flattering, wearable and instantly cohesive, whether styled in matching gowns or mixed silhouettes.

    Satin and silk elevate the shade for more formal celebrations, while chiffon and matte fabrics soften the look for relaxed settings. Paired with gold jewellery, natural makeup and neutral bouquets, the result feels polished but unfussy.

    Using chocolate brown in wedding decor

    In decor, chocolate brown works best as a grounding layer rather than the main focus. Table linens, runners or napkins in warm brown tones add depth when paired with white crockery, candlelight and natural textures.

    For ceremonies, subtle brown accents through wood elements, fabric details or earthy floral arrangements help anchor the space. Keeping lighter tones like ivory or blush in the mix ensures the overall look remains fresh and inviting.

    Stationery and styling details

    Photo: Kaleidoscope Events/Pinterest

    This wedding colour trend shines in the details. Chocolate brown adds richness to stationery through textured paper, warm ink tones or wax seals, setting a refined tone from the first impression.

    It also translates beautifully into styling touches such as signage, cake detailing or groom accessories like brown leather shoes or belts, creating cohesion without feeling overly styled.

    Colours that pair well with chocolate brown

    Part of chocolate brown’s appeal lies in its versatility. Paired with cream or stone, it creates a timeless, neutral palette. Blush and dusty rose add softness, while olive green, terracotta or black introduce a more contemporary edge.

    Metallic accents like gold or bronze lift the palette further, adding warmth and subtle contrast without overpowering the look.

    ALSO SEE: 7 Wedding artists who turn weddings into works of art

    7 Wedding artists who turn weddings into works of art

    Feature image: Show Me Your Mumu/Pinterest

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    In WEDDING FAVOURS

    7 Wedding artists who turn weddings into works of art

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    Your wedding day is filled with moments that deserve more than photographs alone. From live painters capturing your ceremony as it unfolds to caricature artists creating keepsakes for your guests, wedding artists add a layer of creativity, entertainment, and meaning to your celebration.

    We spotlight some of the most sought after wedding artists in South Africa, each offering something beautifully unique.

    Live wedding painters

    • Danielle Jordaan Studio


    Danielle Jordaan and her team are known for elegant live wedding paintings that capture key moments from ceremonies and receptions. Couples can choose whether they want their first kiss, vows, or first dance brought to life on canvas.
    Instagram: @daniellejordaanstudio
    Website: www.daniellejordaan.com

    • Art by Sunel


    Specialising in watercolour live wedding paintings, Art by Sunel captures the softness and emotion of your day. Sunel also offers guest portraits that work beautifully as personalised wedding favours.
    Based in Centurion, Gauteng
    Instagram: @sunel_paintsweddings
    Website: www.artbysunel.co.za

    • The Wedding Painter SA


    Focused on live wedding and event painting, Karen transforms fleeting moments into lasting artworks that become meaningful home pieces long after the wedding day.
    Instagram: @the_wedding_painter_sa
    Website: www.liveweddingpaint.com

    Caricature and portrait artists

    • Cartoon portraits by Gary Carvalho


    Gary is a highly experienced caricature artist who creates quick, expressive portraits that entertain guests while offering a personalised keepsake. Ideal for cocktail hour or reception entertainment.
    Instagram: @livecartoonportraits
    Website: www.livecartoonportraits.com

    • Ted Key Caricatures and illustration

     

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    A post shared by Ted Key Caricatures (@keycaricatures)


    Ted offers a blend of live scene illustration and caricature portraits, capturing both atmosphere and personality. His work adds a creative, interactive element to weddings.
    Instagram: @keycaricatures
    Website: www.keycaricatures.com

    • Besmitten Caricatures by Karina van der Walt


    Karina’s lively caricatures are full of personality and charm. Her work can be incorporated as guest entertainment or custom illustrated wedding keepsakes.
    Instagram: @besmittencaricatures
    Website: www.besmitten.co.za

    • Martinus van Tee

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Martinus van Tee (@martinusvantee)


    Known for his energetic and fast paced live caricature style, Martinus keeps guests engaged while producing fun, expressive artwork throughout the event.
    Instagram: @martinusvantee
    Website: www.martinusvantee.com

    How to choose the right wedding artist

    • Decide whether you want art as live entertainment, a keepsake for yourselves, or personalised favours for guests
      Consider the artist’s style and how it complements your wedding aesthetic
      Book early, especially for peak season dates
      Think about placement during the day, such as cocktail hour or reception downtime

    ALSO SEE: The rectangular wedding cake trend (and why we’re loving it)

    The rectangular wedding cake trend (and why we’re loving it)

    Feature image: Danielle Jordaan/Facebook

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    In Bachelorette Party

    Should you have a joint bachelor and bachelorette party?

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    For decades, kitchen teas, bachelorettes, and bachelors have been celebrated separately, but modern couples are rewriting the rules. Over the past few years, the idea of hosting a joint bachelor and bachelorette party has become far more common, especially among couples with overlapping friend groups or those looking to simplify pre-wedding plans. That said, separate celebrations are still the most common. Many brides love their girls-only moment, and plenty of grooms enjoy their own dedicated send-off. But with the rising cost of events, busy schedules, and couples wanting more shared memories, combined celebrations are definitely gaining momentum.

    Why combining your celebrations makes perfect sense

    1. More time with your favourite people

    Instead of splitting the wedding party for separate weekends, a joint celebration means you and your partner actually get to enjoy the build-up together. No FOMO, no separate plans. Just shared fun before the big day.

    2. It helps both sides bond

    A combined event brings bridesmaids, groomsmen, and mutual friends into one space. It’s the perfect ice-breaker before the wedding, especially if your groups don’t know each other well. By the time the big day arrives, everyone feels like they’ve been friends for years.

    3. It’s budget-friendly

    Two events often mean double the accommodation, transport, decor, and activities. A joint bash can cut costs for the wedding party and the couple. Think shared transport, split venue hire, and group discounts.

    4. Less pressure, more inclusivity

    Joint celebrations naturally avoid the stereotype-heavy, gendered activities some bridal parties want to avoid. They offer a more relaxed, everyone-welcome vibe. This is great for couples who prefer something low-key or who have mixed-gender friend circles.

    Fun ways to combine the celebrations

    If you’re leaning toward one shared event, here are ideas that work beautifully for co-ed groups:

    • A themed dinner party or backyard braai

    A relaxed, at-home celebration where everyone brings a dish or you hire a private chef. Add games or a DIY cocktail bar for extra fun.

    • A competitive game night

    Board games, trivia, or card games are perfect for mixed groups. Create teams that blend both sides of the wedding party for instant bonding.

    • A wine, gin, or craft beer tasting

    Great for groups wanting a more refined (or more adventurous!) outing. Non-drinkers can enjoy alternatives like coffee, cheese, or chocolate tastings.

    • A group activity day

    Think mini-golf, a cooking class, an escape room, or a friendly sports match. Something collaborative is ideal for building connections.

    • A party bus or boat day

    If you want high energy, rent a party shuttle or a boat for a few hours. It’s a simple way to keep everyone together without complicated planning.

    • A weekend away

    From glamping to a beach house, a shared weekend escape can be a cost-effective way to have both separate moments and joint activities.

    Why a combined celebration might not be the best fit

    Joint pre-wedding celebrations are fun and increasingly popular, but they don’t suit every couple or every friend group. Some people prefer the tradition of separate bachelor and bachelorette parties because they want the freedom to plan an experience that truly reflects the bride or groom individually.

    You also need to consider group dynamics: if certain personalities don’t mix well, or if your friends have very different ideas of what “fun” looks like, combining the celebrations could leave someone feeling out of place. And of course, if one side prefers a more relaxed experience while the other is expecting something wild and energetic, the compromise may dilute the excitement for both groups.

    Should you combine yours?

    In the end, it comes down to what feels most “you.” If your group is already close, you prefer shared experiences, or you’d like to simplify the pre-wedding calendar, a joint celebration might be perfect. If you’re dreaming of a more traditional girls-only or guys-only vibe, that’s just as valid.

    ALSO SEE: How to combine your bachelorette and kitchen tea

    How to combine your bachelorette and kitchen tea

    Feature image: Pexels

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