It’s been a weird 18-months. Thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic, we’ve all needed to adjust our lifestyles – sanitise, wear masks, social distance – it’s been an interesting adventure. The pandemic has also spawned a host of trends as various industries learn to pivot and adapt to the “new normal”.
Our new reality has been pretty tough on the wedding industry, with thousands of couples watching their wedding date come and go without saying “I do.” However, grabbing a huge slice of wedding cake and sulking is the last thing couples are doing, birthing a new kind of pre-nuptial ceremony.
There’s plenty that goes into planning a wedding. From choosing your dream venue to the perfect date, many couples are choosing not to compromise on the details of their dream day despite working within the confines of the pandemic.
The pretend wedding, or predding, has been an intimate substitute for wedding celebrations, honouring would-be wedding dates. There might be no signing of a marriage license, but it’s a great way to celebrate love with friends and family.
The hashtag #pretendwedding has been making the rounds on social media, a trend that’s still going strong despite the easing of lockdown restrictions.
A casual setting and dress code, and no strict itinerary makes this new trend a welcome distraction from the stress of wedding planning. Here are a few of our favourite “preddings” online.
You’re about to say your “I dos,” an event that will undoubtedly sweep you up into a love bubble of bliss as you learn to adjust to your new life as Mr and Mrs. But after 18 months of living in close proximately (at least for some of us) with your other half, spending some quality time with the most important person in your life – you – is crucial to stepping into this life of partnership on the right foot.
Indulging in a solomoon is a great way to get some much-needed “me time” before standing at the altar. Whether you choose to enjoy a week-long solo trip or a weekend under the stars, experts are adamant that prioritising some alone time is a must before embarking on your new journey.
What is a Solomoon?
Think of it as a honeymoon, but solo. Basically, it’s an independent trip that’s taken before your wedding day. Marriage is about finding that sweet spot between independence and dependence, learning to build a life with someone while staying authentically you. Taking time out to enjoy your company – alone – is the perfect way to get reacquainted with yourself before getting married.
Perched on a hilltop, Sky Villa offers incredible views of Plettenberg Bay that will definitely make your soon-to-be-husband a little jealous. It’s only a five-minute drive from the beach, but trust us, you won’t want to leave this sprawling property. They offer a range of accommodation options, but it’s the Sky Villa cottage that you have to take advantage of. The cottage provides comfort and luxury, with a touch of independence if you’re not keen on spending your time in a hotel during your getaway. A gym, restaurant, fynbos garden, swimming pool and their famous Sky bar are all on-site, so you’ll never have to leave (or lift a finger).
The key to an incredible solomoon is peace and quiet, and Leobo Private Reserve is paradise. Nestled within the Waterberg mountains, it’s a three hours drive from Johannesburg and offers everything you can possibly imagine for the nature-loving bride-to-be. Spend your day exploring this 20 000 acre reserve, with bird-watching, safaris, kayaking, game viewing and sky diving all on offer. Or enjoy a quiet time out by relaxing alongside the swimming pool or enjoying the mesmerising views. There’s literally something for everyone
Woodsong Cottage – Dargle, KwaZulu-Natal
Woodsong Cottage Airbnb
Resorts aren’t the only place you can enjoy a solo vacation. If you love spending time on your own, blasting some R&B while cooking up a storm, then self-catering is a great option. Whether you’re exploring the lush landscapes of KwaZulu-Natal or looking for something a little closer to home, Woodsong Cottage is a steal. Nestled in the Dargle Valley and overlooking the Umngeni River, it provides some amazing views for the ideal time alone. Each bedroom leads out onto the deck, where views, views, and more views are on offer. A feast for your eyes for sure, but it’s the minimalist interior design and sense of escape from the bustle of wedding planning that will really leave you screaming with delight.
Allow your inner child to live vicariously through you before committing yourself to a life of forever with your person by booking a stay at this incredible Port Elizabeth Treehouse. You know it’s great when it’s ranked one of the top treehouse stays in South Africa, with endless views of the valley and sea in the distance right outside your window. Don’t forget to take your Lush bath bomb as you unwind in a bathtub that offers some incredible views of the forest – a nature lover’s dream! Grab a book and enjoy the incredible bird calls, soaking in the magical yet simple architectural design and interior. If it’s not on your solomoon list, then make sure to add it to your travel bucket list.
Scent is a powerful tool. A fact that was so beautifully proven by Cleopatra, who brought two powerful warlords to their knees through the art of scent.
A scent tells a story, can evoke a memory, or ignite your fight or flight response. Much like how scents can excite or repulse you, the way you smell can encourage those reactions in others. Desire is formed by engaging all the senses, and smell is a key factor. Fragrance is the ultimate accessory, much like wearing a scarf or a dazzling pair of earrings; adorning yourself with the right perfume can make those around you stop and turn.
As German writer Patrick Süskind perfectly surmised in his novel – Perfume: The Story of a Murderer: “Odours have a power of persuasion stronger than that of words, appearances, emotions, or will. The persuasive power of an odour cannot be fended off, it enters into us like breath in our lungs, it fills us up, imbues us totally. There is no remedy for it.”
Credit: Pexels
Aside from the obvious advantage of keeping you smelling good throughout the day, what other reasons could there be to splashing on your favourite perfume? Here are three of our favourites:
Confidence:
Did you know that fragrance can enhance your mood and the way you feel? Fragrance plays a role in eliciting emotion and can include anything from sexy, happy to relaxed. It’s all about how you connect to the scent on an emotional level. The perfect example of this is the Montblanc Legend and Montblanc Explorer.
Legend combines notes of bergamot, lavender, sandalwood and oakmoss to create a contrasting and strong, yet tender, perfume. Bergamot, vetiver and patchouli mingle to produce the woody, aromatic and leathery concoction that is Mont Blanc Legend. All of these elegant and sophisticated notes combine to form a fragrance that exudes a scent of confidence.
A lasting impression:
Only 10% of the impressions you leave on someone are related to the words that you utter, while the rest is hinged on body language and appearance. When you’re feeling confident and in your power people remember this, which can provide a potent first impression. As humans, we utilise our five senses: scent, sight, taste, sound, and touch. Certain scents can trigger our memory, and if you’re wearing the right scent, this will only add to the allure and impact of that all-important first impression.
A unique signature:
Similar to pheromones, everyone has their own unique scent. A person’s fragrance is unique to them, that’s why finding the right one that suits you is so important. There are so many incredible fragrances to choose from that perfectly encompass an individual’s personality. There’s no question that finding this level of individuality through scent can influence confidence and self-esteem.
South Africa’s favourite city of oaks, Stellenbosch, is pulling out the stops for gardeners and lovers of the great outdoors in a new, week-long festival that will transform its streets and surrounding countryside from 30 September to 10 October. Major drawcards include a first-ever Stellenbosch winelands experience featuring SA Michelin star chef Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen.
The inaugural Garden Week Stellenbosch – inspired by the world-famous flower festival of Girona, Spain – will encompass everything from horticultural tours to landscape art; dining to hiking; and, guest specialists to music in majestic settings.
In addition to a host of highlights for fans of flora and Mother Nature in general will be a flower parade, which officially launches Garden Week Stellenbosch on 30 September.
The event is an initiative of Visit Stellenbosch, a destination marketing organisation comprising the region’s tourism stakeholders with the objective of growing the tourism and experience economy in Stellenbosch for the benefit of all communities.
Furthermore, it represents the collaboration of a multitude of local businesses, including restaurants and activity providers, as well as Stellenbosch Wine Routes, Stellenbosch Municipality, Stellenbosch Visio, Stellenbosch Outdoor Sculpture Trust (SOST), Rama, Remgro, Candide App and Garden Day SA.
“What better way to celebrate the start of Spring than through this one-of-a-kind festival,” says Adv Gesie van Deventer, Stellenbosch Executive Mayor. “As an avid gardener, I regularly get my hands dirty and love the multitude of beautiful gardens we have in our area. I’ve had the pleasure of visiting residents who take great pride in their gardens – from lush traditional havens, to smart waterwise and newly established green paradises.
“I encourage all residents and visitors to participate in this unique event and to support our local tourism and experience economy for the benefit of all communities.”
Visit Stellenbosch general manager Jeanneret Momberg says that after many challenging months, Team Stellenbosch has “really pulled together for what promises to become a major annual highlight in the Cape and much-needed boost for the tourism economy”.
Garden Week takes place in the run-up to National Garden Day on 17 October and encompasses the school break. Together, they inspired Garden Week’s educational initiative, organised in partnership with Rama and New Life Microgreens and which provides children with “Microshooters” – microgreen grow kits-in-a-tub.
The project is an extension of Rama’s work with the Department of Education, undertaken since 2017 to help teach school-going children about the value of good nutrition via the Rama Good Breakfast programme.
“We are so proud to be partnering with Microshooters for the Stellenbosch Garden Week, when 6 200 school children will be provided a Rama tub filled with goodies that allow them to experience the wonderful world of growing good food,” says Rama brand manager Sasha Sathianathan. “We are honoured to be part of this initiative.”
Garden Week will also feature several installations to be carried out by landscapers and local botanical artists. Located at landmarks throughout town, these works will not only be part of the pageantry, but also serve to highlight the town’s well-preserved history. Among them will be a giant centre-piece – a plant labyrinth at The Braak, the town’s main square.
Storefronts around town as well as local wine farms will echo the theme with special offers, floral designs, and greenery while local accommodation providers have instituted promotional rates for the run of the festival.
Open gardens and nature walks
Some of the region’s most splendid public gardens will be open to visitors, including the historic Old Nectar estate in the Jonkershoek Valley; the Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden in Paradyskloof; Spier Wine Farm, whose workshops include one for children; and, Delaire Graff Estate. The owners of some 20 private gardens will participate too, giving visitors a rare glimpse of exquisite and usually inaccessible spaces.
Guided walks give visitors the chance to enjoy the gardens in the company of guides while the more energetic might wish to undertake fynbos wilderness hikes on offer.
Porcupine Trail, Waterford
Talks and workshops
A renowned centre of excellence, the Stellenbosch Botanical Gardens has compiled a special programme of daily walks and talks to be presented by acclaimed specialists. Workshops are also to be presented at the Rupert Museum; Blaauwklippen Wine Farm off the R44; Jordan Wines; Spier Estate and Babylonstoren, where tours will be presented by Ernst van Jaarsveld. Topics include flower arranging, dye art, photography, growing-your-own and learning about bees. For budding artists, the Stellenbosch Arts Association will present a botanical drawing workshop.
Food and wine
Stellenbosch is the heartland of South African wine and home to leading chefs and restaurateurs too. This reputation will be showcased in festival-inspired dishes to feature on menus as well as a series of garden-and-wine dining events.
Among them is an exquisite Finding Eden experience with South African Michelin star chef Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen. This casual tête à tête will take place at Blaauwklippen Estate’s magical Cathedral and will include an exploration of the gardens in Jan Hendrik’s life. From Le Jardin de JAN in Nice, France – his Michelin-star restaurant’s new potager garden and picnic spot – to his new culinary playground in the Kalahari; and, how the journey is documented in JAN the Journal.
Another festival highlight is a seven-course Botanical Banquet prepared by JAN Innovation Studio in Cape Town, which brings the JAN experience to the Stellenbosch winelands for the first time. It’s a homecoming of sorts; this is where Jan Hendrik attended culinary school and refined his taste in wine. The meal will comprise elements from his award-winning establishments in Nice and the Kalahari, at a table created by renowned floral designer Alwijn Burger a.k.a Blomboy, and inspired by Blaauwklippen’s beautiful gardens and rare finds.
Looking to have glowing skin on your wedding day? Le Naturel is a local South African handcrafted luxury 100% natural beauty brand. This ec0-friendly skincare brand is known for its unique product ranges featuring indigenous oils. The products are created to help rejuvenate and nurture the body, skin, and mind.
Le Natural aspires to complement a natural approach to health and beauty, Founder Lea Botha is motivated to produce a range of luxury natural products with no chemicals, fragrances, colourants, or parabens. For our eco-conscious brides-to-be, Le Naturel strives to do business in a sustainable, environmentally-friendly, natural way.
So, what are the benefits of using natural beauty products? Well, there are plenty, but here are a few:
Environmentally Friendly
These natural beauty products are not only good for you but good for the environment too! Their organic and natural products contain zero chemicals that are harmful or to the earth, animals, or humans.
Rich In Nutrients
Le Naturel is a fynbos-inspired brand, thus all the ingredients found in natural products are beneficial for the skin and body, it contains naturally-derived ingredients from plant extracts for their incredible healing benefits and enchanting aromas.
Long-Term Investment
Looking for a long-term investment that provides quality and good coverage? Natural skincare products can cost a little more than synthetic skincare products, however, investing in good organic products comes with a guarantee of a simplified skincare routine that includes quality natural ingredients that is beneficial for your skincare in the long run.
For more information, visit Le Naturel to shop and explore more natural, sustainable, environmentally friendly products.
Over the last year, director and head designer George Stander has dedicated much headspace to his brand, his business and what the future holds. It was during this time that he became very nostalgic about his younger days; a time when he spent most of his days surrounded by his family.
This got George thinking about how important a role his family played in his life, who he is today and, by extension, what his business has become. As an ode to his family, George decided to do something calculated but drastic: he decided to rebrand his business. Geo by George is now Leocé Luxury Couture.
A culmination of names in George’s family, Leocé is truly a brand for women of every age, producing garments that can be dressed up for formal occasions or that all-important business meeting but can also be dressed down for a casual dinner with loved ones.
“My roots are the essence of my whole being. As a family, we may be different in many ways, but we have one thing in common – love,” says George.
“With this big change comes one big promise: I will continue to design and produce luxury garments of the highest quality. This is something that will never change.”
Visit www.leocecouture.comfor further information, or to shop the brand’s collection of formal dresses, wedding dresses, sleepwear and dressing gowns, kimonos and more.
The coronavirus pandemic may have shattered the hearts of countless brides-to-be, but that shouldn’t put a damper on throwing an epic bridal shower.
From drive-by baby showers to Zoom birthday parties, the digital age has made it easier for us to celebrate those we love. If you’d love to throw your favourite bride an unforgettable virtual bridal shower but don’t know where to start, here are a few suggestions.
Pick a theme and run with it
We’re living in unconventional times, but that doesn’t mean we can’t keep certain traditions. Sticking to details such as colour scheme and theme are all great ways to help things feel semi-normal. Why not add a splash of fun to the celebration by designing a virtual background for your guests. And don’t forget to include the link to the platform you’ll be hosting your shower on.
Plan the guest list
There’s so much flexibility when it comes to a virtual bridal shower. While traditional bridal showers require a set number of guests, a virtual celebration can literally include anyone – including friends and family based out of town. While COVID-19 has ensured that the wedding guest list has shrunk in size, this doesn’t have to be the case when going virtual. So, go big or go home!
Don’t forget the food
Food has always had a way of bringing people together, especially during a celebration. Get creative with food and drink, perhaps opting for a food delivery service that can drop off a few delectable snacks and meals to your guests. A cute picnic basket or box of yummy treats can be a great idea to ensure that guests feel connected.
Games, games, games!
Games are a must when it comes to any bridal shower, including a virtual one. Adding games to any celebration is a great way to keep things moving, and it guarantees a lively atmosphere that will have everyone feeling more connected – despite the distance. Setting virtual Bingo cards to use when the bride-to-be is opening her gifts or a fun trivia game about the couple (with prizes, of course) is an amazing way to get everyone laughing.
The Dangerous Woman singer became a married woman in a secret ceremony, tying the knot with 25-year-old real estate broker Dalton Gomez. The couple has been engaged for half a year and quietly said “I do” at Grande’s Montecito, California home.
Grande’s reps recently confirmed the nuptials to E! News, saying that “It was a beautiful day and very romantic.” The ceremony was said to include “close family and friends.”
The singer has been dating the luxury property for around 18 months, with their relationship surviving the coronavirus pandemic. Grande’s walk down the aisle comes five months after Gomez popped the question with a gorgeous diamond and pearl ring.
According to sources, Grande couldn’t be happier. “It was perfect and just what Ari wanted.”
The singer was previously engaged to comedian Pete Davidson back in May 2018 before they called it quits the following October.
