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    wedding trends
    In Advice

    2026 Wedding trends shaping South African celebrations

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    Wedding trends rarely land the same way across borders, and in South Africa, couples tend to favour celebrations that feel grounded, expressive and connected to place. Weddings are becoming less about spectacle and more about intention, with design choices that balance beauty, meaning and practicality.

    These 2026 wedding trends reflect how South African couples are redefining their wedding days in ways that feel considered, personal and distinctly local.

    A richer approach to colour

    Neutral palettes remain popular, but in 2026 they are being layered with deeper, earth-led tones. Shades such as olive, terracotta, chocolate brown and warm caramel are appearing across florals, stationery and table styling, often lifted with a subtle accent colour rather than bold contrast.

    This approach works particularly well in natural settings, whether in the Winelands, along the coast or in the bush, where colour can enhance the environment rather than compete with it.

    Bridal fashion with individuality

    wedding trends
    Photo: Hasan Hasanzadeh/Unsplash

    South African brides are increasingly confident in their choices. Structured bodices, detachable skirts, statement sleeves and refined detailing are replacing overly embellished gowns. While white remains dominant, softer tones and textural fabrics are becoming more visible, especially for second looks or smaller celebrations.

    Dress codes are also loosening, allowing guests to interpret the aesthetic while still respecting the formality of the day.

    Food that reflects place and season

    Dining continues to move away from lengthy, formal sit-down meals. In 2026, couples are favouring seasonal menus, shared-style dining and relaxed pacing that allows guests to move, mingle and enjoy the atmosphere.

    Locally sourced ingredients, open-fire cooking, curated wine pairings and thoughtful late-night offerings reflect a growing appreciation for food as part of the overall experience, without becoming overly performative.

    Tablescapes that feel natural, not overstyled

    Long tables, considered linen choices and layered textures remain central to reception styling. Rather than highly theatrical setups, South African weddings lean towards tablescapes that feel refined yet effortless.

    Ceramic tableware, glassware with character and floral arrangements that echo the surrounding landscape create settings that photograph beautifully while remaining functional and welcoming.

    Florals with purpose

    Floral design in 2026 is less about abundance for its own sake and more about placement and impact. Grounded installations, sculptural arrangements and aisle meadows are favoured over towering structures.

    Florals are increasingly used to guide guests through a space, frame key moments or highlight architectural features, particularly at venues where the natural backdrop already does much of the work.

    Private vows gain popularity

    vows
    Photo: Micah & Sammie Chaffin/Unsplash

    Private vow exchanges are becoming one of the most meaningful 2026 wedding trends. Many couples are choosing to share their vows quietly before the ceremony, allowing for an intimate moment away from guests and cameras.

    Personalisation without excess

    Rather than personalised everything, couples are choosing a few meaningful details and doing them well. Handwritten notes, subtle monograms, custom menus or a carefully chosen ceremony reading often replace multiple decorative elements.

    Photography with an editorial eye

    South African photographers continue to lead the shift towards a documentary, editorial style. Natural light, movement and unposed moments are prioritised, resulting in imagery that feels timeless and emotive rather than overly styled.

    Smaller guest lists, stronger experiences

    While large weddings still have their place, many 2026 celebrations are becoming more intimate. Smaller guest lists allow couples to invest in quality, detail and time with their guests, particularly at destination venues.

    What’s quietly fading

    Highly coordinated bridal parties, rigid timelines and overly formal traditions are becoming less common. Couples are choosing flexibility, comfort and authenticity, shaping days that feel reflective of who they are rather than what’s expected.

    ALSO SEE: The wedding colour trend that quietly won us over in 2025

    The wedding colour trend that quietly won us over in 2025

    Feature image: Unsplash

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    In Bachelorette Party

    The origin of the flower girl

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    Adding a touch of childlike wonder to weddings for as long as we can remember, the flower girl is not only adorable but a much-loved wedding tradition too. While we often associate the moment with sweetness and innocence, the meaning and origin of the practice are rooted in much older customs.

    There are two main ideas linked to this tradition. According to Reader’s Digest, it’s connected to themes of new beginnings and fertility (as many long-standing wedding traditions are), rather than romance.

    In ancient Rome, marriages were often arranged and carried significant social purpose, including uniting families and ensuring a continuation of the family line. During these ceremonies, historic accounts describe young attendants accompanying the bride. A young girl would walk ahead of her, tossing grains or herbs to symbolise prosperity, good fortune, and protection.

    As the centuries went on, the symbolism evolved with each era. Some medieval customs continued the idea of blessing the path ahead, often using herbs known for their associations with luck or protection. Over time, this slowly shifted into what we recognise today: little girls scattering petals or carrying blooms down the aisle.

    Reader’s Digest also notes that having a young girl lead the procession came to represent the transition from childhood to womanhood — one reason why flower girls are often dressed in similar colours or styles to the bride.

    Brides shares similar origins, adding that influences from both Roman and Greek traditions likely contributed to the early forms of this custom.

    As the tradition developed further, the Elizabethan era embraced children in the wedding party as symbols of hope and innocence. Brides notes that this era strengthened the sentimental meaning behind including little ones.

    By the time the Victorian era arrived, the flower girl had taken on a look much closer to the modern version. Petite baskets filled with flowers and delicate floral wreaths became popular, symbolising unending love and natural beauty.

    Today, we still include children in our wedding parties, although the meaning has changed dramatically. Most couples no longer associate the role with fertility or symbolism around innocence — they simply enjoy the charm, fun, and family connection that a flower girl brings to the aisle. It’s become a sweet way to involve beloved nieces, nephews, or little family friends in one of life’s most special moments.

    ALSO SEE: Flower Availability by Season and Locality: Plan Your Wedding Blooms Wisely

    Flower Availability by Season and Locality: Plan Your Wedding Blooms Wisely

    Image: Unsplash

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    In Engagements

    13 fun engagement party ideas

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    Now that you’ve got the ring, you’ve said yes, and you’ve spread your great news, it’s time to celebrate! Your engagement party is the first of many celebrations to come before the wedding in which you get to honour your relationship. You’ll definitely want to start your wedding journey off with a bang.

    While some may opt for the traditional engagement party, others may want to spice things up a bit. Since an engagement party is a celebration of the couple, it should reflect their personalities, right?

    Here are some fun engagement party ideas to get your imagination flowing:

    –  Classy back yard picnic 

    – Garden dinner 

     

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    A post shared by Morgan Yates (@morgan.yates)

    – Wine and cheese tasting 

    – Casino party 

     

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    A post shared by Briana Williams (@lovexbriana)

    – At home silent disco 

    – Glamping for a night 

    – A bonfire at the beach 

    – Dress up/themed party 

    – Backyard movie night 

    – Cocktail party 

    – Sunset cruise

    – Build-your-own pizza night

    – Pool party

    Bonus: 

    – Tribute to your first date

    If you did something exciting on your first date or ate some great food, try to incorporate that into the party. If you went to a certain restaurant, perhaps you could host the party there. Maybe you went to a carnival – you could either have all your guest join you at another carnival, or you could have a carnival themed party.

    ALSO SEE: Busted! 5 Common engagement ring myths debunked

    Busted! 5 Common engagement ring myths debunked

    Image: Pexels 

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    lemon mojito lollipops
    In Food

    Lemon mojito lollipops make the perfect little boozy treat for your guests

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    Zesty, pretty and totally wedding-ready, these lemon mojito lollipops are the perfect addition to any celebration. Pop them into jars, scatter them across the snack table, or gift them as fun take-home treats. If you’re after wedding favour ideas that are cute, refreshing and budget-friendly, this recipe ticks every box.

    Recipe

    Serves: Makes 9
    Cooking Time: 30 mins

    Ingredients

    10 mint leaves
    2 lemons, thinly sliced; some
    slices halved
    220g sugar
    120g liquid glucose
    60ml (4 tbsp) soda water
    1,25ml (¼ tsp) mint extract (find at
    baking supply stores)
    80ml (1/3 cup) white rum

    Instructions

    1. Line a baking tray with baking paper or a silicone mat and grease with non-stick cooking spray. Place 3 different-sized (8cm-, 7cm and 5cm-diameter) round cookie cutters on the lined tray and grease them with non-stick cooking spray too. Position a wooden ice lolly stick underneath each cookie cutter to form the lollies’ handles, and arrange the lemon slices and mint leaves inside the cutters, as desired.
    2. Heat the sugar, liquid glucose and soda water in a saucepan over medium heat, allow to simmer until the sugar has melted, then increase the heat to high. Bring to a boil and cook, without stirring, 15 minutes or until the mixture reaches 120°C on a sugar thermometer.
    3. Stir in the mint extract and white rum, and boil, 5 minutes. Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the syrup to cool down slightly to break down the bubbles.
    4. Working quickly, drizzle up to 30ml (2 tbsp) syrup into each prepared cookie cutter, covering the mint leaves and lemon slices. Allow the mojito lollipops to set completely on the lined tray, about 10 minutes. Lift the cookie cutters, remove the lollipops and set the lollipops aside, standing them upright in a jar. Repeat these steps with the remaining syrup, re-greasing the moulds and adding the lolly sticks each time. (If the syrup hardens during the process, simply return it to the heat to melt.)

    ALSO SEE: Embracing Moody Jewel Tones for South African Weddings

    Color & Mood Shifts: Embracing Moody Jewel Tones for South African Weddings

    Recipe from Food&Home.

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    venus williams
    In Celebs

    Venus Williams shares the sweetest engagement moments

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    For years, Venus Williams has been fiercely private, letting her legendary tennis career speak louder than her personal life. But last week, the five-time Wimbledon champion treated fans to a rare and intimate glimpse into her engagement with Andrea Preti, sharing a carousel of enchanting photos on Instagram captioned simply: “Engaged 1/31/25.”

     

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    A post shared by Venus Williams (@venuswilliams)

    The post marks a heartwarming contrast to the fierce, competitive energy fans are used to seeing on the court.

    A Vogue-Worthy Celebration of Love

    Set in a lush, romantic garden, the engagement portraits feel straight out of a magazine spread. Williams stuns in a crisp white Prada halter dress, exuding effortless sophistication, while Preti, her Italian-Danish actor and former model fiancé, complements her elegance perfectly.

    One photo, in particular, warms hearts: the couple smiling alongside Harry, Williams’s beloved dog who turned 18 this year. Including Harry in the shoot adds a personal, familial touch, signaling that this chapter is not just about Venus and Andrea—it’s a celebration of their entire little unit.

    Andrea Preti: Partner and Cheerleader

    Preti, 37, is a multi-hyphenate talent in the entertainment industry, balancing acting, producing, and modeling. His artistic résumé spans indie films like One More Day and Italian TV dramas such as A Professor and Temptation. But beyond his career, he has been a steadfast supporter of Venus’s tennis journey. During her engagement announcement in July, she revealed that he had encouraged her to continue competing, saying, “My fiancé is here, and he really encouraged me to keep playing.”

    Their connection, though largely private, has been documented in glimpses around the world. The romance first emerged publicly in July 2024 during a boat trip in Italy. By February 2025, sightings of Venus wearing a diamond ring at a Milan fashion event fueled engagement speculation. The rumors were confirmed months later in July, putting any doubts to rest.

    A History of Love and Privacy

    Before finding love with Preti, Venus had a few high-profile relationships. She shared a long-term relationship with golfer Hank Kuehne from 2007 to 2010 and later dated Cuban model Elio Pis, who also modeled for her EleVen clothing line. Yet through it all, Venus has maintained her personal life with discretion, choosing to let her achievements and work define her public persona.

    Now, with these stunning engagement photos, fans get a rare peek behind the curtain. Venus Williams, known for her grace and competitiveness, shows that off the court, her life is filled with quiet joy, love, and family moments worth celebrating.

    While a wedding date remains unannounced, fans are clearly savoring this intimate reveal—proof that even legends deserve their happily ever after.

    ALSO SEE: Nadia Jaftha announces her engagement

    Nadia Jaftha announces her engagement

    Source: IOL

    Feature image: Instagram/Venus Williams

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    wine tips
    In Advice

    Simple wine tips for weddings and honeymoons

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    Summer celebrations — from weddings to honeymoons — are all about sunshine, good company, and a glass in hand. And while it’s easy to just open a bottle and pour, a little know-how can make every sip feel more special.

    The right prep, the right pairing, and the right setup can elevate your reception drinks or honeymoon evenings instantly.

    Make the most of every bottle

    Start with your senses: look at the colour, swirl gently, and inhale to pick up the wine’s distinctive notes before taking a slow first sip. The small details matter:

    Use the right glasses:

      • Tulip-shaped glasses bring out aromas

      • Flutes keep bubbles lively

      • Stemless glasses are ideal for relaxed settings

    Get the temperature right:

        • Sparkling wine: 6–8°C

        • Whites: 8–12°C

        • Rosé: ±10°C

        • Light reds: 12–14°C

        • Fuller reds: 14–18°C

    Don’t underestimate presentation:
    Nicely chilled bottles, beautiful glassware, and a simple setup make home celebrations or honeymoon picnics feel extra special.

    And above all, pace yourselves; responsible sipping is non-negotiable.

    Quick pairing guide for wedding menus & honeymoon meals

    Crisp white wines
    Perfect with prawns, seafood salads, lemon-herb roast chicken, or fresh goat’s cheese.
    Serve at 8–10°C.

    Dry rosé
    Great with cold cuts, light salads, and tomato-based snacks.
    Serve at 8–10°C.

    White blends or Chenin-style wines
    Lovely with creamy salads, mild curries, and roast chicken.
    Serve at 10–12°C.

    Light reds
    Ideal with grilled meats, boerewors, and lamb chops — perfect for warm weather.
    Serve at 14–16°C.

    Sparkling wine / MCC
    Perfect for starters, seafood, desserts, and all your celebratory toasts.
    Serve at 6–8°C.

    All-rounder
    A chilled dry rosé works beautifully with a mix of courses.

    Quick ways to upgrade your wine experience

    • Whites → smaller bowl

    • Reds → larger bowl

    • Rosé → tapered bowl

    • Sparkling → wide tulip

    Temperature and glassware alone can completely change your wine experience — whether it’s your reception, a small gathering, or a sunset honeymoon sip.

    ALSO SEE: No Cake, No Bouquet Toss, No Rules, Couples Are Reinventing Weddings

    No Cake, No Bouquet Toss, No Rules, Couples Are Reinventing Weddings

    Info: Supplied by ByDesign.

    Feature image: Pexels

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    what not to do with your skin
    In Advice

    What NOT to do to your skin pre-wedding

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    You will most likely be stressing about numerous things before your wedding – your skin doesn’t have to be one of them. Here is what not to do to your skin before the big day.

    1. Spend too much time in the sun

    Don’t try to get the tan of your life right before your big day. You could get burnt and you and your skin will be dehydrated, and it will show. On that note, stay away from tanning beds as well; they can just as much – if not more – damage your skin.

    Take a look in the mirror and think about whether you actually need a tan. If you do, rather try a subtle self-tanning product for a few weeks leading up to the big day. Start toning it down a week before.

    And remember to wear sunscreen every single day, even on your wedding day, to ensure you stay sun safe.

    2. Pick at blemishes

    This doesn’t only apply to your pre-wedding preparations but it’s great advice for every time you are tempted to pick. Picking, squeezing or scratching a spot on your face will cause scarring. We know it’s incredibly hard not to pop that pimple as soon as it arises, but it’s important to leave it alone. The bacteria underneath your nails can penetrate this vulnerable area, causing swelling and redness.

    Instead, apply a spot treatment that contains benzoyl peroxide (not toothpaste!) to the area twice a day after cleansing, and try to leave it alone.

    If you are struggling with a painful, cystic spot right before the big day, visit your dermatologist and have a cortisone shot in the affected area. This will help considerably more than any topical treatment.

    3. Change your routine

    Every bride wants her skin to be perfect. Stick to what you know works for you and don’t try to switch up your routine a month before. Your skin WILL freak out.

    A few months before your wedding, introduce your skin to a brightening treatment (containing malic acid or vitamin C) paired with a moisturiser that contains hyaluronic acid. Cell turnover takes approximately 30 days, so any new treatment you use will only begin to show its effects after a month.

    Pro tip: Don’t use an acne treatment if you do not have problem skin as a preventative measure. It will only dry out your skin and you won’t glow as much when you say ‘I do.’

    4. Get a peel too soon before your wedding day 

    Getting a harsh chemical peel a few days before your wedding won’t be beneficial in the least. A peel of any kind requires some downtime, and your skin needs to chill out for a week or more.

    A peel literally removes a layer of skin, cleansing deep down into your pores, and revealing smooth and glowing skin. It helps in the disappearance of ance, scars, wrinkles and a rough texture, but it will not give you perfect skin overnight.

    Try a peel way in advance to see how it works for you, and then go for another (more gentle, if necessary) session at least two months before your wedding. They are one of the greatest things you can do for perfect wedding skin, but always be sure to chat to your therapist to make sure your timing and choice of treatment is spot on.

    5. Get too stressed out 

    Don’t forget to make time for yourself, meditate and breathe. All the stress of planning and making sure every detail is perfect will take a massive toll on your skin. Try listening to soothing music before bed, take a long bath, and breathe long and deep breaths to calm down your nervous system. And remember to hydrate!

    ALSO SEE: Keep your hair healthy on your summer honeymoon

    Keep your hair healthy on your summer honeymoon

    Feature image: Pexels

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    summer honeymoon
    In Advice

    Keep your hair healthy on your summer honeymoon

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    Summer honeymoons are all about salt-sprayed skin, sun-drenched days, and endless swims, but they can also be the season your hair fears most. Between ocean dips, pool lounging, and hours under the sun, your strands face a triple threat. The result? Dryness, breakage, dull colour, and that unmistakable “summer stiffness.”

    The good news? With the right rituals, you can enjoy every romantic, sun-kissed moment without sacrificing your hair’s health. Here’s your ultimate honeymoon guide to keeping your hair protected from summer’s harshest elements.

    The sea: Salt water 101

    Salt water naturally dehydrates the hair, lifting the cuticle and leaving strands rough and brittle. Great for effortless beachy honeymoon waves — not so great for long-term hair health.

    How to protect your hair from the ocean

    Pre-hydrate before your swim
    Think of it like a primer. Wet your hair thoroughly with clean water before diving into the sea. Saturated hair absorbs less salt.

    Use a leave-in conditioner or hair oil
    A nourishing leave-in creates a protective barrier, sealing in moisture and guarding against dryness. Coconut oil, argan oil, or a silicone-free serum works beautifully for beach days.

    Post-swim rinse ASAP
    If a shower isn’t nearby, even a quick water-bottle rinse removes salt before it crystallises on your strands.

    Pool water: The chlorine culprit

    Chlorine is notorious for stripping hair of natural oils and binding to proteins in the strands. The result? Faded colour, a rough texture, and for blondes — the dreaded hint of green. Not ideal for honeymoon photos.

    How to protect your hair from chlorine

    Wet your hair before swimming (yes, again)
    Freshly-wet hair absorbs far less chlorine.

    Coat your hair with conditioner
    A lightweight, silicone-free conditioner forms a barrier that keeps chlorine from penetrating deeply.

    Wear a swim cap for long pool sessions
    Not the most glamorous accessory, but extremely effective — especially if your honeymoon includes lots of pool time or if your hair is bleached or processed.

    Use a clarifying shampoo once a week
    This removes chlorine buildup without stripping your hair daily.

    The sun: Your hair’s UV enemy

    Just like your skin, your hair suffers from sun exposure. UV rays weaken the protein structure, fade colour, and dry out the cuticle — especially on the hairline and top layers most exposed during sunny excursions.

    How to protect your hair from sun damage

    SPF for your hair is a thing — use it
    UV-protectant sprays shield your strands from protein breakdown and colour fade. Reapply like sunscreen when spending the whole day outdoors.

    Wear a hat or scarf
    Chic, romantic, and extremely effective. Bonus: it protects your scalp, too.

    Avoid the midday sun
    UV intensity peaks around midday, making hair more vulnerable to damage — the perfect excuse for a siesta or shaded lunch date.

    Deep-condition weekly
    Sunlight pulls moisture from your strands. A weekly mask restores softness and keeps hair flexible and healthy-looking.

    Your ultimate summer honeymoon hair routine

    For dreamy, healthy hair from check-in to checkout:

    • Before swim: Wet hair, apply leave-in conditioner or oil, braid for protection.
    • After swim: Rinse, apply moisturising spray, air-dry when possible.
    • Daily protection: UV-protectant spray and hats during peak sun.
    • Weekly care: Deep-conditioning mask, plus clarifying shampoo once a week if swimming often.

    A summer honeymoon doesn’t have to mean straw-like strands or faded colour. With a little preparation and a few mindful habits, your hair can stay glossy, soft, and healthy — letting you enjoy every golden hour, every dip in the sea, and every sunlit memory to the fullest.

    ALSO SEE: Beyond the Beach: Unusual Honeymoon Ideas for South African Couples in 2025

    Beyond the Beach: Unusual Honeymoon Ideas for South African Couples in 2025

    Written by Amy Steenkmap for Woman&Home.

    Feature image: Pexels

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    premarital counselling
    In Advice

    Things you should know about premarital counselling

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    In the past, premarital counselling was mainly carried out in religious institutions. These days, however, it has become more popular with non-religious couples too. Couples go to seek guidance and advice in the hopes of preventing divorce.

    According to the Mayo Clinic, “Premarital counseling is a type of therapy that helps couples prepare for marriage. Premarital counseling can help ensure that you and your partner have a strong, healthy relationship — giving you a better chance for a stable and satisfying marriage”. They add that the sessions will assist you in identifying weaknesses that could result in trouble for you as a couple further down the road.

    What to expect from premarital counselling: 

    The counselling is usually carried out by a licensed therapist. You’ll sit in the therapists office with your partner by your side discussing a variety of topics related to marriage. Some of these topics include: Money, quality time together, sex, roles in marriage, children, extended family, beliefs and values, and goals.

    Some therapists may have you fill out questionnaires separately. The questionnaire will have you answer questions about each other. Thereafter, the therapist will help you to work through the results together.

    Benefits of premarital counselling: 

    – Helps guide the conversation 

    Discussing heavy topics such as religion, sex, or kids, can result in both partners getting emotional and therefore losing focus of the topic at hand. A counsellor will help to guide the conversation. They also ensure you don’t get angry or misinterpret each other.

    – Teaches communication 

    An important thing to know is that different people respond in different ways to tones and speech patterns. You must be aware of how your partner needs to be spoken to, in order to feel understood, supported, and heard. Premarital counselling also teaches you how to communicate in a healthy and productive way.

    – Helps you prepare for your future together 

    You will be made aware of which expectations are realistic and which are not.  You will also get an idea of your timing and goals as a couple, for example when you both want to have kids, or when you want to move to a bigger house. Additionally, your anxieties and fears will be lessened as a result of how well counselling demystifies marriage. It also ensure’s that you avoid many potential conflicts in the future.

    – You’ll learn more about yourself and your partner 

    Often, counselling is an eye opening experience. You discover things about yourself you’ve never known because the mental health professional is guiding you towards these realisations. When you and your partner have these experiences together, it also becomes a sort of bonding experience.

    Tips for successful premarital counselling: 

    – Know that it will be tough 

    You’ll be dealing with very touchy subjects. Be sure to be as open as you can and don’t be scared to be vulnerable. Most importantly, don’t give up because it’s uncomfortable! Remember that in the end, this will only grow and strengthen your relationship.

    – Don’t say what you think they want to hear 

    Avoid saying things that downplay your emotions or opinions, don’t answer in a way that you think is correct (there are no right or wrong answers). You should also avoid saying things just because it makes you seem more compatible with your significant other. If you do that, there will be no real progress.

    – It’s not a competition 

    There is no winner or loser, and there should be no “I told you so” at the end of the session.

    Be open to listening and accepting that you are both capable of being better.

    ALSO SEE: The pocket guide for announcing your engagement on social media

    The pocket guide for announcing your engagement on social media

    Image: Pexels

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