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    beach wedding
    In Planning

    10 Tips for your beach wedding

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    If it’s always been your dream to recite your vows on the shoreline of a pristine beach, South Africa offers an assortment of amazing spots for your nuptials. But because your wedding backdrop forms part of the country’s natural landscape, there are a few logistical challenges to keep in mind. Here, we help you suss out the big ones.

    1 Legalities

    Municipal rules say that you’ll need a permit to host a wedding (or any other event) on the beachfront, which often comes with a fee. This is a crucial expense to add to your budget and should be done as early as possible to ensure you meet all the necessary deadlines.

    2 Date

    Consider the time of year and season of your proposed date. While the winter months (generally May to September) can be colder, the summer months do mean beaches will be more crowded as tourists and holidaymakers flock to our shores.

    3 Timing 

    The behaviour of the tide should be your guideline for setting a time for your ceremony. Bear in mind that even if the tide is low, strong winds will necessitate moving your ceremony indoors so ensure you have a backup plan for the day too.

    4 Decor

    It goes without saying that summer is the most popular beach wedding season so expect to spend some time in the outdoor heat. To prevent yourself and your guests from baking in the sun, have a few umbrellas or a gazebo installed. These can be beautifully ornamented with anything from wire hearts to ribbons to strings of shells.

    5 Confetti

    Being sprinkled with confetti as you take your first steps as husband and wife will undoubtedly be one of the most utopian moments of the day. Remember that when you’re at the seaside, biodegradable confetti is a must. Can’t find any that’s biodegradable? Bubbles are a cute substitute that will be enjoyed by both kids and adults.

    6 Bridalwear

    Yes, we know that Cinderella looked ravishing in her wedding ball gown but then again, she never got married on a beach. A lightweight dress minus the layers of tulle, along with sandals or even going barefoot, will not only be more practical for oceanside weddings, but can create a whimsical and angelic look.

    7 Dress code

    While you can’t completely control what your guests will wear to your wedding, you can help them avoid the worst by specifying which type of attire would be fitting. Like you, the ladies would be better off foregoing full-skirted evening dresses in favour of flowing cocktail frocks while the gents should opt for shorts suits in bright colours. The gentlemen would look dashing and be more comfy in shorts suits or chinos, instead of tuxedos, to match the relaxed vibe of your ceremony.

    8 Catering

    Facilities for caterers may not be in abundance near the beach, so choose menu options that can be served cold. Think oysters, salmon skewers and fresh green salads. Yum! If you like to keep things hot, consider a spitbraai or a separate venue that’s close to the beach where the ceremony will be held.

    9 Booze

    If you’re planning on clinking a few glasses of bubbly with your feet in the water, think again as consuming alcohol on South African beaches is forbidden. Try booking a beach venue with an indoor reception area that has sea views and where your guests can still enjoy a tipple.

    10 Entertainment

    The sight of glowing lanterns floating away into the dazzling night sky is utterly romantic while a fireworks display above the waters is sure to wow your guests. But as these activities do include the use of fire, they may be ruled out by certain municipalities. Be sure to check with your local authority when applying for your permit and opt for more eco-friendly entertainment options such as a band or friendly games of beach volleyball for your guests.

    ALSO SEE: Wedding-worthy fashion from the Golden Globes 2026

    Wedding-worthy fashion from the Golden Globes 2026

    Feature image: Getúlio Moraes/Unsplash

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    In BRIDESMADES DRESSES

    Wedding-worthy fashion from the Golden Globes 2026

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    The Golden Globes 2026 once again proved that red carpets and wedding aisles aren’t worlds apart. From sculptural couture gowns that could effortlessly double as modern wedding dresses to sharply tailored suiting offering fresh inspiration for grooms and groomsmen alike, this year’s looks were a masterclass in ceremony-worthy style. Add in fashion-forward moments perfect for bridesmaids and wedding party outfits, and it’s clear: Hollywood’s biggest night delivered no shortage of ideas for couples planning a celebration that feels both timeless and of-the-moment.

    While many of these show-stopping dresses weren’t designed in traditional bridal shades, their silhouettes, textures and detailing translate beautifully into white, ivory and soft neutral palettes , making them perfect reference points for brides, bridesmaids and wedding parties seeking fashion-forward inspiration with lasting appeal.

    Oscar Isaac in The Row and Bvlgari jewlery
    Photo: WWD/Gilbert Flores/2026GG/Penske Media
    Photo: WWD/Tommaso Boddi/2026GG/Penske Media
    Photo: WWD/Jesse Grant/2026GG
    Photo: WWD/Gilbert Flores/2026GG
    Photo: WWD/Gilbert Flores/2026GG/Penske Media
    Photo: WWD/Jesse Grant/2026GG/Penske Media
    Photo: WWD/Gilbert Flores/2026GG
    Photo: WWD/Gilbert Flores/2026GG
    Photo: WWD/Gilbert Flores/2026GG
    Photo: WWD/Gilbert Flores/2026GG
    Photo: WWD/Gilbert Flores/2026GG
    Photo: WWD/Gilbert Flores/2026GG/Penske Media
    Photo: WWD/Gilbert Flores/2026GG
    Photo: WWD/Gilbert Flores/2026GG
    Photo: WWD/Gilbert Flores/2026GG/Penske Media
    Photo: WWD/Jesse Grant/2026GG
    Photo: WWD/Jesse Grant/2026GG

    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

    Featured image: Golden Globes/Instagram

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    spa retreats
    In Destination

    Spa retreats in South Africa for honeymoons, bachelorettes and pre-wedding escapes

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    In the midst of wedding planning, pre-wedding celebrations, or the transition into married life, taking time to pause can feel both indulgent and essential. Whether you’re planning a calming escape before the big day, a romantic honeymoon, or a restorative bachelorette getaway, spa retreats offer a meaningful way to reconnect, unwind and reset together.

    South Africa is home to an exceptional collection of spa retreats that lend themselves beautifully to wedding-related travel. Blending luxury with nature and indulgence with intention, these destinations range from secluded mountain hideaways to vineyard sanctuaries and refined city escapes, making them ideal for honeymoons, bachelorettes and pre-wedding escapes alike.

    1. Santé Wellness Retreat & Spa – Cape Winelands

    Tucked away in the serene valleys of the Cape Winelands, Santé Wellness Retreat & Spa is a sophisticated choice for couples or bridal parties seeking a structured yet luxurious wellness experience. Known for its comprehensive spa treatments and detox programmes, Santé combines tailored health assessments with holistic therapies designed to restore both body and mind.

    With world-class facilities including hydrotherapy, Pilates and yoga studios, sauna and a heated indoor pool, it is well suited to couples wanting a mindful start to married life, or brides looking to arrive at the aisle feeling balanced and radiant.

    2. Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve & Wellness Retreat – Cederberg

    For couples or groups drawn to nature-led experiences, Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve offers a deeply immersive retreat. Set high in the Cederberg Mountains, this escape pairs luxurious spa therapies with wide-open landscapes, ancient rock art and outdoor exploration.

    Riverside massages, open-air treatments and guided hikes make it a compelling option for adventurous honeymoons or intimate bachelorette retreats where nature, stillness and connection take centre stage.

    3. Healing Earth Transformative Wellness – KwaZulu-Natal Midlands

    Located in the rolling countryside of the Midlands Meander, Healing Earth Transformative Wellness is ideal for slower-paced celebrations or pre-wedding wind-downs. The spa’s bespoke treatments are inspired by nature and tailored to individual needs, offering everything from restorative massages to calming facial therapies.

    With an outdoor yoga deck, wellness pool and tranquil spaces for relaxation, this retreat works beautifully for small bridal groups or couples seeking quiet luxury in a countryside setting.

    4. Future Found Sanctuary – Cape Town

    Just outside Cape Town, Future Found Sanctuary offers a regenerative wellness experience that feels both secluded and accessible. Set against the slopes of Table Mountain, the retreat is surrounded by fynbos and sweeping mountain views, creating a serene backdrop for honeymoons or pre-wedding escapes.

    The spa focuses on sensory renewal, with treatments complemented by forest walks, meditation spaces and guided wellness activities. It is an excellent choice for couples wanting meaningful relaxation without straying too far from the city.

    5. Babylonstoren Spa – Cape Winelands Botanical Retreat

    For couples or bridal parties who appreciate refined, nature-inspired luxury, Babylonstoren is a standout destination. Set on a historic working farm, the spa draws heavily on the surrounding botanical gardens, offering herbal steam baths, botanical massages and open-air hot pools.

    Between treatments, guests can explore the gardens, enjoy farm-to-table dining or simply soak in the views of vineyards and mountains, making it particularly appealing for romantic honeymoons or indulgent pre-wedding stays.

    6. The Saxon Spa – Johannesburg

    For those planning a city-based escape, The Saxon Spa in Johannesburg offers an elegant urban sanctuary with five-star appeal. Known for its holistic, results-driven treatments, the spa combines advanced skincare and body therapies with classic luxury.

    Thermo-therapy suites, bespoke facials and tranquil gardens provide a polished yet peaceful environment, ideal for a short honeymoon stopover or a sophisticated bachelorette retreat without leaving the city.

    Tips for Planning a Wedding-Focused Spa Escape

    • Book well in advance: Spa retreats are popular for honeymoons and group bookings, particularly at sought-after properties.

    • Consider group-friendly options: Some spas offer tailored packages for couples or bridal parties, including private facilities or shared treatments.

    • Balance indulgence with experience: Pair spa time with gentle activities such as yoga, guided walks or wine tastings to create a well-rounded stay.

    ALSO SEE: Should you have a joint bachelor and bachelorette party?

    Should you have a joint bachelor and bachelorette party?

    Written by Zoe Erasmus for Getaway.

    Feature image: Pexels

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    wedding chair decorations
    In Advice

    How to choose the right wedding chair decorations

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    When planning your wedding decor, it is easy to focus on flowers, tables and lighting while overlooking one detail that guests interact with constantly: the chairs. Wedding chair decorations are a subtle yet powerful way to tie your theme together, add texture to your venue and create visual interest from ceremony to reception.

    Why wedding chair decorations matter

    Chairs make up a large part of your venue’s visual landscape. Decorated chairs help:

    • Define the overall wedding aesthetic

    • Frame the aisle and ceremony focal point

    • Elevate standard venue furniture

    • Add softness and cohesion to the space

    • Enhance photographs from every angle

    Ceremony chair decorations

    Popular wedding chair decoration ideas include:

    • Floral posies or small arrangements tied to aisle chairs

    • Flowing fabric such as chiffon, voile or organza

    • Greenery like eucalyptus, olive branches or ivy

    • Simple ribbon bows for a classic and understated look

    For a modern approach, decorate only the first few rows or alternate chairs to keep the look refined and uncluttered.

    Reception chair decorations

    Reception chair decor is usually more subtle, allowing tablescapes to take centre stage. Instead of decorating every chair, many couples focus on the bridal table or sweetheart table.

    Consider:

    • Custom Mr and Mrs chair signs

    • Hanging floral installations behind the couple

    • Draped fabric over the backs of feature chairs

    • Statement chairs that stand apart from the rest

    This approach keeps the space elegant while still highlighting the couple.

    Chair covers, sashes or bare chairs?

    One of the biggest decisions couples face is whether to cover their chairs.

    Chair covers are ideal if:

    • The venue chairs do not suit your aesthetic

    • You want a uniform and polished look

    • Your wedding style is formal or traditional

    Bare chairs work beautifully when:

    • The chairs are already stylish, such as ghost chairs, wood or cross back chairs

    • Your wedding style is modern, rustic or minimalist

    • You want a lighter, more relaxed feel

    Sometimes the most effective wedding chair decoration is letting beautiful furniture speak for itself.

    Floral and greenery chair styling trends

    Trending styles include:

    • Single stem florals tied with silk ribbon

    • Asymmetrical greenery placements

    • Dried flowers for a textured, bohemian look

    • Neutral florals that complement the bouquet and table arrangements

    Keeping florals consistent with the rest of your decor ensures a cohesive result.

    Personalised wedding chair decorations

    Personal touches make chair decor feel meaningful rather than purely decorative.

    Ideas include:

    • Reserved signs for family members

    • Custom calligraphy tags

    • Cultural or symbolic elements

    • Subtle nods to your love story

    These details photograph beautifully and add emotional depth to your ceremony and reception.

    Practical tips before you decide

    Before committing to wedding chair decorations, consider:

    • How many chairs will be visible in key photos

    • Whether decor will be reused from ceremony to reception

    • Setup and breakdown logistics

    • Your overall decor budget

    Chair decor does not need to be elaborate to be effective. A few well placed details often create the strongest visual impact.

    ALSO SEE: 2026 Wedding trends shaping South African celebrations

    2026 Wedding trends shaping South African celebrations

    Feature image: The Visionary Vows/Pexels

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    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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    flower girl
    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.”

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    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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