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    Kirsten Jacobs

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    Unique honeymoon stays in South Africa

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    A honeymoon is already a romantic trip, but why not make it even more special with an unusual destination? Standard hotel rooms and airbnbs are are fun but they’re also a little bit predictable.

    South Africa has a few weird and wonderful locations that you can call ‘home’ for a few days while celebrating your newly wedded bliss. Here are a few of our favourites.

    Old Mac Daddy

     

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    Just an hour out of Cape Town and set amongst the apple orchards, Old Mac Daddy offers open spaces, mountain paths, a lakeside beach and plenty of outdoor activities. Part caravan park, part designer farm lodge – this little hotel is truly unique.

    They have a sleek collection of 12 themed vintage Airstream Trailer Suites, each uniquely designed by some of Cape Town’s top artists and designers.

    Visit the website HERE.

    Rovos Rail

     

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    Since its establishment in 1989, Rovos Rail has earned an international reputation for its truly world-class travel experiences. In a series of bespoke train journeys lasting from 48 hours to 15 days, Rovos Rail links some of the continent’s greatest destinations with a variety of off-train excursions.

    The vintage carriage offers 3 suite types: Royal, Deluxe and Pullman. The suites accommodate one or two passengers with the option of double or twin beds. All have en-suites with shower, toilet, basin and bath (Royal only), tea facilities, safes, air conditioning, linen and amenities and are serviced daily.

    Visit the website HERE.

    Kagga Kamma Cave Suites

     

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    Go back into nature and live like our forefathers, albeit it in a much more luxurious way. Kagga Kamma in the Swartruggens region of the Cederberg Mountains offers ten unique man-made ‘Cave’ Suites that were skilfully constructed to integrate with the natural Sandstone formations.

    The facade of the ‘Cave’ Suites are man-made, while the back interior wall is natural sandstone. Each ‘Cave’ Suite has a small terrace with a view and is simply furnished with comfort in mind. Each ‘Cave’ is equipped with a double bed, air-conditioner, and coffee/tea making facilities, en-suite bathroom, bathrobes, hairdryer and complimentary toiletries.

    Visit their website HERE.

    Speekhout treehouse, Eastern Cape

     

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    Live out your childhood fantasies by staying in a real-life treehouse. Speekhout offer an adult wooden treehouse built in the boughs of an ancient sprawling red Karee tree (Rhus  Lancea). The dwelling is enveloped by the branches of a living tree, with lush vegetation and bush as a private garden
    It is free-standing and away from other guest accommodation on the farm, also making it naturally private.

    Equipped as a self-catering getaway with gas and electricity, the Tree House also has a newly installed enclosed fireplace making cold karoo winter nights warm inside. There is an outdoor braai area for starry summer nights and mountain views alike.

    Visit their website HERE.

    Houseboat Myrtle, Knysna Lagoon

    Credit: Airbnb

    Spend the day floating over the Knysna lagoon on the Houseboat Myrtle, a totally self-contained wooden cottage on the water. Myrtle is one of the original Knysna houseboats and has a lovely wood finish inside. With its two decks, it’s perfect for lazy days floating on the lagoon. From the deck, you can enjoy views of the lagoon, the quays and the Knysna Heads, catch fish or just relax…

    The boat is moored in a permanent location, yet turns with the changing tides or winds, giving you the variety of the 360 Degrees views of Knysna from both decks. You can even lay in bed and watch as the boat turns and changes your bed view.

    Visit their website HERE.

    Picture: Instagram / Old Mac Daddy

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    In Accessories

    Wedding veils that will wow a crowd

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    A wedding is a time-honoured occasion featuring unique traditions that have been around for decades and even centuries. One such tradition is the bridal veil.

    Brides have worn veils for a number of symbolic and religious reasons. From warding off evil spirits in ancient Greece to displaying a woman’s virtue in Christianity, the veil has become a traditional wedding garment over the centuries.

    However, in today’s world, wearing a veil is entirely optional. If you do decide to wear one and have a flair for the dramatic, why not go for a bold veil? Deck out your veil in pearls, crystals, lace, flowers, and more to give it a unique edge. Go long and voluminous for extra oomph.

    If you need some inspiration, look no further. Here are some fantastic veils you’ll fall in love with:

     

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    How to pick your honeymoon destination
    In Accessories

    How to pick your honeymoon destination

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    The first step towards planning your dream honeymoon is selecting the perfect location. The place you choose will determine the best time to go, activities you enjoy, and the general vibe of your honeymoon.

    Deciding on a honeymoon destination can be a little overwhelming. If you’re having trouble narrowing your options down, keep these tips in mind.

    Select a general vibe

    Before you settle on a location, it may be easier to know what kind of honeymoon you want. If you’re the adventurous/outdoorsy type, a tropical location like Bali may be best for you. On the other hand, art-lovers will enjoy more cultural locations like Rome. City slickers will thrive in metropolitan areas like New York and those just wanting a relaxing break should opt for a beach getaway like the Seychelles.

    Make a list and check it twice

    Now that you know the type of honeymoon you want, you can begin researching locations that offer what you want. Write a list of dream places you and your fiancé would like to travel to, and see if/which places are on both your lists.

    Set a budget

    It’s important to stay within budget when honeymooning. Remember, you just blew quite a bit on your big day so you don’t want to start your married life in even deeper debt. Now that you’ve got your list of destinations, evaluate which one best fits with your budget. For example, if you want a cultural experience abroad, it may be better to opt for smaller locations in Eastern Europe rather than Western Europe, as they’re often way more affordable.

    Factor in out-of-pocket costs

    Travelling can easily become expensive if you forget to sweat the small stuff. Things like Visa applications, the exchange rate, transportation, surge pricing for in-season activities and restaurants can all add up quickly.

    Consider the time of year and weather

    If you plan on soaking up the sun all day, it would be best to check ahead of time to make sure the weather will be on your side. Travelling in-season is often more expensive but it ensures you’ll be able to enjoy the activities you want, whereas off-season travelling may save some coin but run the risk of some things being closed.

    Stay abreast of current events

    Make sure to do your research beforehand to make sure you are aware of all the health risks and requirements of every individual destination. This is especially important if you plan to travel amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Some countries require certain vaccines and paperwork before entry. It is also important for many to consider whether your destination of choice is LGBQTI+ friendly.

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    In Advice

    Shining a spotlight on South Africa’s most beautiful wedding venues

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    There is no end to South Africa’s beauty. The country is blessed with stunning natural scenery from coast and mountains to the bustling city and relaxing Cape Winelands.

    If you’re on the market for your dream venue, look no further. We’ve compiled some of our favourite locations across the country that will be the perfect backdrop to your big day

    Blaauklippen

    Down to earth with a rich history and winemaking tradition, Blaauwklippen is one of the oldest wine farms in Stellenbosch. Pick from the Manor House Lawn, Manor House Terrace, the Greenhouse and The Cathedral for your big day.

    Visit their website for more info HERE.

    Le Jardin Villa

     

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    Old-world charm and elegant heritage awaits you at Le Jardin Villa in Stellenbosch. Take a step back in time into romance and wonder at Le Grand Jardin’s Looking Glasshouse. A giant tree stands in the centre of the glasshouse, giving you the ultimate ‘Secret Garden’ atmosphere.

    Visit their website for more info HERE.

    Lace on Timber

     

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    This award-winning venue is truly a masterpiece to behold. Set between luscious and natural forests on the edge of Cullinan, Lace on Timber perfectly pairs french industrial details with romantic finishes.

    Visit their website for more info HERE.

    Shepstone Gardens

    A fairytale setting in the heart of Johannesburg, Shepstone Gardens mixes old-world glamour with modern finishes to give you the best of both worlds. On the grounds are an on-site chapel, a glass marquee, and a grand hall. The on-site chapel has intricate stone walls, large stained-glass windows and a stunning glass roof that screams opulence and whimsy.

    Visit their website for more info HERE.

    La Paris Estate

     

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    Go for glamour at La Paris Estate in Stellenbosch. From the marbled floor and antique chandeliers to the regal wine tanks surrounding the estate, this location is guaranteed to take your guests’ breaths away.

    Visit their website for more info HERE.

    Bosjes

     

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    At the foot of the Waaihoek Mountain, situated in the beautiful Breede Valley lies Bosjes, a working Cape Dutch farm meets hotel and bistro. The glass-walled chapel features a unique curved roof, making it appear as if the building rests on the body of water.

    Visit their website for more info HERE.

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    The ins and outs of diamond certification

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    Buying an engagement ring is an investment, so it’s important to make sure you’ve done everything through the right channels and are getting what you paid for. Unfortunately, it’s not as easy as just saying ‘I do’. A lot of research and paperwork is involved, so best do your homework.

    If you’re searching for the perfect gemstone to centre your ring, a term that will come up a lot is ‘diamond certification’. This is a system created by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) to evaluate the merits of a particular diamond.

    Factors considered in the certification include the four Cs – cut, carat, clarity and colour. Other characteristics it will mention include its symmetry and fluorescence.

    This certificate is essentially proof that you are receiving a genuine diamond and is being shown at the same grade that it is being sold at. As such, this works to give buyers ease of mind of their diamond’s quality and identity.

    Diamond certification also helps in the valuation process, as a valuer will require all this information when placing a monetary value on your diamond. This is important to have for insurance purposes, but also in the event you decide to re-sell the diamond in future.

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    Breaking the glass: How this Jewish wedding tradition came to be

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    The Jewish religion has been around for over 3 000 years and there are tens of thousands living in South Africa that practice Judaism. Various traditions and rituals are performed during the union of a couple, one of which is the famous breaking of the glass.

    Here is the history and meaning behind this tradition:

    When a Jewish couple ties the knot, they marry under a canopy called a Chuppah which must have four corners and be covered by a roof. The Chuppah is a symbol of the new home the married couple will build together.

    Once the nuptials have concluded, the groom (sometimes the bride too) will step on a cloth bag that contains glass in order to break it. Everyone then shouts Mazel Tov! Which means congratulations or good luck. This is known as the ‘breaking the glass’ tradition’ and is meant to symbolise the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem.

    The Temple of Jerusalem was a centre for worship in ancient Israel.  However, it was destroyed in the Siege of Jerusalem by the Neo-Babylonian Empire in 586 BCE. The Second Temple, built soon afterward, was also destroyed.

    By honouring this sad moment in Jewish history, this tradition is meant to symbolise that there is sadness in joy and that you should never forget about all the pain in the world even on the most joyous of occasions. It also represents how important it is to stand together and persevere through hard times.

    Couples often collect the broken shards of glass after the ceremony and save them as a memento of their special day.

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    Say 'I do' with a sweet wedding ring tattoo
    In Advice

    Say ‘I do’ with a sweet wedding ring tattoo

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    Much like marriage, tattoos are serious and (mostly) permanent. While it’s often considered a big no-no to mark your body with your lover’s name, this can also be a sweet and romantic act for many.

    There are many reasons why couples may choose to forego wearing their rings. Maybe you have a physical job that requires you to wear no jewellery, or you’re just not the diamond type. Whatever the reason, your finger does not have to be bare. Fill that space with a tattoo designed just for your and your partner.

    Wedding ring tattoos are super popular, with celebrities like Jay-Z and Beyonce even rocking this trend. You can go simple with a a classic line tattoo or add some personality and choose an icon that is close to you and your partner’s heart. For example, you could opt for crowns to symbolise your fairytale love, or get your partner’s initials.

    Here are some tattoos we think are pretty sweet:

     

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    In Fashion

    My big, fat South African Wedding: All about Xhosa wedding attire

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    With 12 official languages, 9 provinces, and a country filled with love, it’s fair to say that South Africa’s diversity is pretty amazing.

    Planning and celebrating weddings differ across cultures and religions in South Africa, and it is important for all locals and Internationals to be informed about the unique traditions the country has to offer.

    With that being said, Wedding Etc has started an exciting and informing series that will delve into several wedding cultures and traditions in South Africa. The series will primarily focus on the cultural wedding attires of the groom, bride, and guests.

    In the first series piece we will be covering the Xhosa wedding attire. Keep an eye out for our future features on others such as the Zulu, Indian and Muslim cultures.

    The bride’s attire

    The Xhosa ethnic group is the second-largest cultural group in South Africa and their weddings are a huge celebration. The bride, called the umakoti, is traditionally the centre of attention.

    On her special day the bride wears a long skirt or dress which is called the Ijermani or isishweshwe, which symbolizes that she is no longer a girl. The skirt is like no other as it is covered in beautiful embroidery and beadwork from top to button.

    This part of the outfit is then paired with a tartan blanket that wraps neatly around the bride’s shoulder. The blanket represents the protection and care that the bride-to-be will add to her new family.

    The final touches include a woolen scarf around the bride’s waist, a black doek and beaded necklaces, bracelets, necklaces, and a matching handbag.

    The groom’s attire

    The groom’s outfit is quite a powerful statement as it is usually warrior inspired and also echo’s his bride’s attire. He wears a white wrap around his waist that has the same decorations as the bride. The groom also wears a blanket, called ingwaca, over his shoulders. To finish the look, the groom’s head and neck are showered with beads.

    The bridesmaids and groomsmen attire

    The family members of the newlyweds dress in similar patterns and fabrics. They are not as extravagant but they complement the couple of the day.

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    The moving ins and outs of insurance for co-habiting
    In Advice

    The moving ins and outs of insurance for co-habiting

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     The economic downturn over the past year, coupled with the need to reduce expenses, has seen a rise in vacant properties across South Africa and an increase in co-habiting. Taking the decision to move in with your partner is a big step. It’s wise to consider the emotional, financial and insurance implications and have critical conversations upfront.

    Marius Steyn, Personal Lines Underwriting Manager at Santam, and Marius Neethling, Manager Personal Lines Underwriting (Systems and Administration) at Santam, caution that there are a few considerations people need to think about when merging households.

    “In the scenario where you move in with your partner, an insurer usually considers you the equivalent of a common-law husband and wife, depending on the seriousness of your relationship. That means you can take out a policy together. If you are moving in with a housemate, both parties will need their own separate insurance policies. In this case, you will have to insure your own belongings and communal living underwriting rules will apply. In both cases there are lots of logistics to tick off – like making sure the household contents are covered.”

    Here, Steyn and Neethling chat through the checklist to tick off before co-habiting:

    Make sure you’ve adequately covered the combined contents of your home:

    Moving in together often results in a staggering amount of ‘stuff.’ Which means you and your partner will probably need to update the household contents insured amount. If your relationship is seen as serious (insurers look for things like how long you’ve been together, if you’ve co-purchased furniture, etc.), then an insurer will treat you the same as they would a married couple. This means you can take out a policy between you, with one person being the main policyholder and the other, the additional insured.

    Some considerations:

    • Remember, the main policyholder will be paid out in the event of a claim. It’ll then be up to him/her to pay the additional insurance. Insurers don’t get involved in these politics and are in no way responsible if the policyholder does not pay his/her partner or housemate. So, trust is important.
    • If you both have separate household contents policies with different insurers and are wondering which insurer to go with, don’t just pick the lowest premium price: consider the benefits and excesses – what you pay and what you receive in return.
    • Get your household contents evaluated (or do this yourselves using an online calculator) so you’re certain you’re adequately covered for the replacement value of all your combined items.
    • When your household contents are on the move between properties you should notify your insurer of the new address prior to the day you move.
    • It’s in your interest to tell your insurer about all the security features at your new home. Generally, there will be specific security requirements in order to qualify for burglary and theft cover.

    If you happen to have a fight and temporarily move out…

    It’s not commonly known, but, if you happen to argue and temporarily move out and take some of your household contents with you, these items will still be covered in your temporary abode, providing this is a private building – not a tent or caravan, for example. This only applies to a temporary situation though – if it’s a permanent split, then you’ll need your own new policy.

    Vehicle insurance is also important:

    Remember to add your partner as a regular driver on your policy if he or she uses your vehicle more frequently than you do.

    If it really doesn’t work out:

    If, sadly, the relationship comes to an end, then you should get your own policy as soon as possible, especially if you have one policy between you, but you’re not the main policyholder. Remember, if you’re the additional insured, it’s up to the policyholder to pay you in the event of a claim, which could get difficult if you’re not together anymore.

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    In Celebs

    Jersey Shore star ‘JWoww’ is engaged

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    Forget about gym, tan, laundry, it’s about to be all about gym, tan, wedding! Jersey Shore star JWoww, real name Jenni Farley, is engaged to Zack Clayton Carpinello.

    The pair got engaged back in late February, and the reality star took to Instagram on Tuesday, March 9 to announce their exciting news.

    “On 2.27 I said yes on the top of the Empire State Building,” she captioned the images of the pair looking loved up.

     

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    Carpinello posted the same pictures with the caption, “My always and forever. You made me the happiest I’ve ever been. I love you more than anything.”

    The couple has been dating since early 2019 and briefly split up in that same year before reigniting their love. Clayton even appeared alongside JWoww on screen in Jersey Shore Family Vacation.

     

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    This will be Farley’s second walk down the aisle. She was previously married to Roger Mathews, with whom they share daughter Meilani (6) and son Greyson (4). Funnily enough, Carpinello actually attended Farley’s first wedding as he was a longtime friend of the now ex-couple.

    Picture: Instagram / Jenni JWoww

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