Zaghrah Anthony, Author at Wedding ETC

In Sponsored

MURDOCKS Heritage

July 3, 2026 No Comments

“James Edgar Murdock came to South Africa from England in 1896 and decided to set up a jewellery business. In 1897 he opened the first Murdock’s Watchmakers and Jewellers in a small shop on the corner of Parliament and Longmarket Streets in Cape Town. Through the years, eminent customers of Murdocks have included Cecil John Rhodes, King George and Queen Frederika of Greece.

The classic contemporary Murdocks store now situated in the heart of the renowned V&A Waterfront, offers a variety of enchanting fine jewellery pieces as well as a range of prestigious international watch brands adding to the glamour and sparkle.

A diamond is a gift that will last forever, a universal symbol of love. The best of South Africa and Africa’s mineral wealth has been used to create pieces of rare beauty, with diamonds set into the finest precious metals such as gold or platinum.

There is a fine tradition of service that is offered at Murdocks which adds to the value of the brand. Murdocks will happily collect and return you to your hotel anywhere within the Cape Town area. The friendly staff will ensure your experience is as it should be indulgent, enjoyable and most of all memorable.”

MURDOCKS

www.murdocks.co.za

Shop No 122, Lower Level, Victoria Wharf, V & A Waterfront, Cape Town

+27 21 419 0302

[email protected]

IG: https://www.instagram.com/murdocksjewellers/

FB: https://www.facebook.com/MurdocksEst1897/

6 Unique engagement rings that will wow your soon-to-be fiancé!

In Sponsored

The Sophisticated Sip: Why Inah Superior Grape Juice is the New Wedding Essential

July 2, 2026 No Comments

When we think of a wedding toast, the mind often leaps to the sound of a popping cork and the effervescence of champagne. However, as modern weddings evolve to become more inclusive, health-conscious, and culturally diverse, a new star has emerged on the tables of the world’s most prestigious venues. Inah Superior Grape Juice, established in 2006, is redefining the “non-alcoholic” category by offering a beverage that possesses the complexity, prestige, and sensory depth of a fine vintage wine.

For the couple planning their special day, the beverage selection is about more than just quenching thirst; it is about creating a cohesive, high-end experience for every guest, regardless of their lifestyle or dietary choices. From the ancient soils of South Africa to the dinner tables of the global elite, Inah is the sophisticated answer to the modern wedding toast.

A Legacy Rooted in the Western Cape

The journey of Inah begins in the heart of South Africa’s wine country: the Western Cape. This region is world-renowned for its terroir, where ancient soils and a unique climate provide the perfect environment for premium grapes to flourish. Inah’s philosophy is “Birthed in nature, rooted in goodness, and extracted for enjoyment”.

These grapes are harvested at their absolute prime, ensuring they are filled with the rich flavours and heart-protecting antioxidants that only mature wine grapes can provide. Unlike mass-produced juices that often rely on concentrates and added sugars, Inah is crafted from 100% pure cultivar grapes. This dedication to quality ensures that the final product isn’t just a drink, but a tribute to the natural beauty of its origin.

Mastering “Wine Complexity”

One of the most frequent challenges for wedding planners is finding a non-alcoholic option that feels “grown-up” and pairs well with a gourmet menu. Inah solves this by pioneering a “wine complexity” in its grape juices. Through unique processing methods, Inah extracts the maximum benefits and flavour profiles from each crop.

The result is a beverage that offers a rich, sensory experience characterized by earthy tones and a velvet finish on the palate. When poured into a crystal glass, Inah’s appearance is indistinguishable from a prestigious wine, ensuring that guests who choose not to consume alcohol still feel fully integrated into the celebration.

A Varietal for Every Wedding Moment

Just as a sommelier pairs different wines with different courses, Inah offers a range of varietals that allow for a curated beverage program throughout your wedding day:

The Welcome: Rossore Superior Sparkling

First impressions are everything. As guests arrive at your reception, a glass of Rossore offers a crisp, refreshing, and zesty greeting. Made from the finest Colombar grapes, this pink sparkling juice is tart and uplifting. It is the perfect companion for pre-reception canapés, particularly sushi, ceviche, or light vegetable appetizers.

The Cocktail Hour: Merlot and Sauvignon Blanc

For a relaxed afternoon cocktail hour, the Merlot varietal evokes the feeling of late summer fruits. It features sensual flavours of plum and blackcurrant, making it smooth and easy-drinking—a guaranteed favourite for a celebratory atmosphere. Both international award winning varietals.

In Sponsored

Beachcomber: Your dream romantic escape starts here.

June 29, 2026 No Comments

At Beachcomber Tours, romance isn’t just a promise – it’s a perfected art. Whether you’re planning a dreamy destination wedding, a blissful honeymoon, a heartfelt vow renewal, a milestone anniversary, or a familymoon filled with love and laughter, Beachcomber’s award-winning resorts offer tailored experiences that turn moments into lifelong memories. With exclusive packages, stunning locations, and thoughtful touches, your celebration of love begins here.

Weddings

Say ‘I do’ in paradise with Beachcomber’s destination weddings. Choose from three tailored packages, each offering exclusive touches like a dedicated coordinator, beach or garden ceremony, and romantic extras. With only one wedding per day, your special moment receives undivided attention and unforgettable memories.

Honeymoons

Celebrate your love in Mauritius with Beachcomber’s enchanting honeymoon packages. Enjoy a bottle of bubbles on arrival, daily complimentary lunch, and a curated Beachcomber Experience. Relax, explore, and make lasting memories in a resort that understands the magic of your first holiday as a married couple.

Anniversaries

Mark your milestone anniversary with Beachcomber’s special offerings. Couples celebrating every fifth anniversary receive exclusive gifts and savings, making your celebration in paradise even more memorable. Reignite your romance with Beachcomber’s heartfelt hospitality.

Renewal of Vows

Reaffirm your love with a vow renewal ceremony at Beachcomber’s idyllic resorts. Enjoy the same luxurious inclusions as wedding packages, minus the legal formalities. With one ceremony per day, your celebration is planned to perfection in a romantic beach or garden setting.

Familymoons

Blend romance and family time with Beachcomber’s Familymoon offering. Enjoy year-round savings and thoughtful gifts for couples sharing with kids. Create lifelong memories with curated experiences for the whole family in a stunning tropical setting.

Sharing the Love

Every Romance Collection booking includes a bottle of sparkling wine on arrival, a two-course lunch daily for half-board guests (including children), and a magical Beachcomber Experience – ranging from spa treatments and boat trips to photo shoots and guided treks. It’s our way of saying congratulations.

The Beachcomber Legacy

Beachcomber Resorts & Hotels have been making dream holidays a reality for over 70 years. Since 1952, we’ve led the way in romantic travel, offering unmatched service, breathtaking locations, and unforgettable experiences. When it comes to love in Mauritius, trust the experts – trust Beachcomber.

Visit : http://bit.ly/4qmz7qs

Featured Image: Supplied

In Advice

Buying vs hiring your wedding dress in South Africa: The 2026 bride’s guide to cost, style & smart choices

June 8, 2026 No Comments

Your wedding dress isn’t just another line item on your budget – it’s the emotional centrepiece of your entire wedding story. But in South Africa right now, brides are asking a very practical question alongside the emotional one: Do I buy it… or do I hire it?

And the answer isn’t as simple as it used to be.

With bridal fashion evolving, budgets shifting, and more flexible options available than ever before, the decision now sits somewhere between sentiment, strategy, and style.

Here’s how to figure out what actually makes sense for you in 2026.

What it really costs in South Africa right now

Before you decide, you need clarity on pricing – because the gap between buying and hiring isn’t always as wide as people think.

Recent South African bridal market insights show:

Buying a new wedding dress: ± R14,000 – R60,000+ depending on designer, fabric, and detail
Average boutique gowns: around R13,000 – R30,000
Pre-loved/sample dresses: from ± R6,500 – R15,000
Hiring a dress: typically around R14,000 – R22,000 (sometimes up to 75% of retail value)

Here’s the truth most brides only realise later: hiring is not always the “cheap option” – it’s often just the “short-term option.”

Buying your wedding dress: the emotional investment

Buying a dress is about ownership – but also control.

Why brides choose to buy:

Full freedom for custom alterations and fit
Ability to preserve it as a keepsake or heirloom
More styling options (especially for modern trends like detachable sleeves or second looks)
Ability to resell or rewear for future events

In 2026, we’re also seeing a shift toward multi-use bridal gowns – dresses designed with removable elements so brides can transform their look from ceremony to reception without changing outfits entirely.

The reality check:

Higher upfront cost
Alterations and cleaning add extra budget
Storage and preservation become your responsibility

Buying makes sense when your dress is part of your identity – not just your outfit.

Hiring your wedding dress: the practical luxury option

Hiring has evolved a lot. It’s no longer “basic budget brides only” – it’s now a structured bridal service, often with designer gowns available.

Why brides choose to hire:

Lower upfront commitment
Access to designer or luxury gowns at a fraction of retail price
No storage or preservation stress after the wedding
Cleaning often included

But here’s what you need to know:

Alterations are usually limited
You’re restricted by availability and booking dates
Costs can still climb to 50–75% of retail price

Hiring works best when you prioritise convenience over long-term ownership.

The 2026 bridal shift: why this decision is changing

Bridal fashion is no longer just about tradition it’s about identity.

Across global and South African bridal trends, we’re seeing:

A rise in personalised, fashion-forward gowns
More brides choosing pre-loved and sustainable options
A move away from rigid “white only” tradition into soft tones and expressive silhouettes
Increased demand for versatile dresses that can transform during the day

In other words: brides are no longer choosing between “buy or hire” in a vacuum they’re choosing how much permanence they want in a fashion moment that is increasingly expressive and fluid.

So… how do you actually decide?

Ask yourself these 4 questions:

Do I want to keep my dress after the wedding?

If yes → buying is your lane.

Is my priority budget flexibility or long-term value?

If short-term ease matters more → hiring works.

Do I want full control over fit and design?

If yes → buying wins by a mile.

Will I regret not owning it?

Be honest here – this is usually the deciding factor.

Final thought

There is no “correct” choice anymore only what aligns with your priorities, your budget, and the story you want your wedding to tell.

Some brides want a dress they can keep forever. Others want a designer moment without long-term responsibility.

Both are valid. What matters is choosing intentionally, not emotionally pressured or financially rushed.

ALSO SEE: Transforming your mom’s wedding dress

Transforming your mom’s wedding dress

Featured image: Rewan Ahmed / Pexels

In Advice

The wedding planning apps every modern couple should know about

June 2, 2026 No Comments

Wedding planning has come a long way from colour-coded binders and endless spreadsheets. While traditional planning methods still have their place, today’s couples are increasingly turning to digital tools to keep everything organised, connected, and accessible from anywhere.

From managing guest lists and RSVPs to tracking budgets, sharing inspiration, and communicating with vendors, the right app can make planning feel significantly less overwhelming. The key is knowing which tools are actually worth downloading.

Here are some of the wedding planning apps helping couples stay on top of every detail.

The Knot

One of the most recognised names in the wedding industry, The Knot remains a favourite for couples looking for an all-in-one planning platform. The app combines planning checklists, budgeting tools, guest management, wedding websites, and vendor discovery in a single space. Recent updates have also introduced AI-powered recommendations to help couples find vendors and inspiration that align with their style and budget.

Best for:

Vendor discovery
Planning timelines
Wedding websites
Budget management

Zola

For couples who prefer a clean, streamlined experience, Zola continues to be one of the most user-friendly wedding planning platforms available. The app combines guest list management, budgeting tools, wedding websites, registries, and vendor searches in one easy-to-navigate dashboard. Industry experts continue to rank it among the strongest all-in-one planning solutions available.

Best for:

Wedding websites
Registry management
Guest lists
Budget tracking

Joy

Joy has become particularly popular among couples focused on guest experience. The platform offers digital invitations, RSVP tracking, personalised guest schedules, virtual guest books, and shared photo galleries where guests can upload images from the celebration. Its modern design and intuitive interface make it a standout option for couples who want their guests to stay informed and engaged throughout the wedding journey.

Best for:

Guest communication
Digital invitations
Photo sharing
Wedding websites

Wedding Wire

When it comes to researching vendors, WeddingWire remains one of the most useful resources available. Couples can browse reviews, compare suppliers, explore venue options, and connect directly with wedding professionals through the platform. Many couples use WeddingWire alongside another planning app, using it primarily as a research and vendor discovery tool.

Best for:

Vendor research
Reviews and recommendations
Venue discovery
Wedding planning inspiration

Notion

Not technically a wedding app, but increasingly popular among modern couples, Notion offers complete flexibility for those who want to customise every aspect of their planning process. From budget trackers and seating plans to vendor contracts and mood boards, it can be tailored to suit virtually any wedding style or planning approach. Wedding experts continue to recommend it for couples who want greater control over their planning system.

Best for:

Custom planning systems
Collaborative planning
Budget tracking
Document storage

Google Sheets

Sometimes simplicity wins. Shared spreadsheets remain one of the most widely used wedding planning tools, particularly for managing budgets, guest lists, payment schedules, and vendor comparisons. Many couples combine Google Sheets with dedicated wedding apps for a planning system that balances flexibility with convenience. (Plan A Wedding)

Best for:

Budget management
Guest lists
Vendor comparisons
Collaborative planning

The rise of AI-powered wedding planning

One of the biggest shifts in wedding planning right now is the growing use of artificial intelligence. Couples are increasingly using AI tools to organise budgets, build timelines, generate planning checklists, draft wedding website copy, and streamline communication with vendors. Industry research suggests that more than half of couples planning weddings have already incorporated AI into some part of their planning journey.

While technology can certainly save time, wedding professionals continue to emphasise that the most meaningful elements of a celebration – personal stories, emotional moments, and creative decision-making – still benefit from a human touch.

The bottom line

No single app will magically plan your wedding for you. The best approach is finding a combination of tools that suits your planning style, whether that’s a comprehensive platform like The Knot or Zola, a guest-focused option like Joy, or a customised setup using Notion and Google Sheets.

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

7 Wedding artists who turn weddings into works of art

Featured image: thecactusena / Pexels

In Advice

Digital wedding invitations: Why more South African couples are going paperless

June 1, 2026 No Comments

Wedding planning has changed dramatically over the last few years, and one of the biggest shifts has been how couples invite their guests.

While traditional paper invitations still hold a special place in many weddings, digital wedding invitations have become a practical, stylish, and increasingly popular alternative. From instant delivery and RSVP tracking to reduced costs and environmental benefits, it’s easy to see why more South African couples are choosing to go paperless.

If you’re weighing up your options, here’s why digital invitations deserve a place on your wedding planning checklist.

A more budget-friendly option

Let’s be honest: weddings are expensive.

By the time you’ve factored in design, printing, envelopes, and postage, traditional invitation suites can quickly become a significant line item in your budget.

In South Africa, professionally printed invitation suites can cost anywhere from R25 to R100+ per invitation, depending on the paper quality, finishes, and quantity ordered. For a guest list of 100 guests, that can easily add up to several thousand rand before you’ve even paid for postage.

Digital invitations, on the other hand, typically cost a fraction of that amount. Many couples create custom digital invitations for between R500 and R3 000, while some online platforms offer beautifully designed templates for even less.

The savings can be redirected towards other priorities, whether that’s upgrading your menu, booking a content creator, or extending your honeymoon.

Simplified RSVPs

One of the biggest frustrations for couples is chasing guests for responses.

Digital invitations often include built-in RSVP functionality, allowing guests to confirm attendance with a single click. Many platforms also allow couples to collect dietary requirements, song requests, accommodation details, and travel information in one place.

Instead of juggling spreadsheets and WhatsApp messages, everything is automatically organised and updated in real time. Digital RSVP systems have become one of the biggest reasons couples choose electronic invitations.

Perfect for South African guest lists

South African weddings often involve guests travelling from different cities, provinces, or even countries.

Whether your guests are spread between Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban, Gqeberha, or overseas, digital invitations arrive instantly. There’s no waiting for postal services or worrying about invitations getting lost in transit.

They’re also incredibly easy to share via email, WhatsApp, or a wedding website, making communication much more efficient.

An eco-conscious choice

For couples trying to make more sustainable wedding decisions, digital invitations are an obvious win.

Choosing a paperless invitation reduces the need for paper, ink, packaging, and transportation. While no wedding is completely waste-free, digital invitations are one simple way to lessen your environmental impact without sacrificing style.

They feel more personal than ever

Gone are the days when digital invitations meant sending a simple PDF.

Today’s digital invitations can include:

Animated designs
Engagement photos
Video messages
Interactive RSVP buttons
Google Maps links
Wedding websites
Accommodation information
Countdown timers

Many couples are even incorporating short videos or personalised animations to create an experience that feels every bit as special as opening a traditional invitation.

The rise of the hybrid invitation

Not ready to completely give up paper?

You don’t have to.

Many modern couples are embracing a hybrid approach: sending digital invitations to most guests while reserving printed invitations for immediate family members, older relatives, or keepsake purposes.

This approach offers the best of both worlds – maintaining tradition where it matters while reducing overall costs and waste. Hybrid invitation strategies are becoming increasingly common, particularly for formal weddings and multi-generational guest lists.

Are digital wedding invitations right for you?

Digital invitations work particularly well for:

Modern weddings
Destination weddings
Smaller guest lists
Eco-conscious celebrations
Budget-conscious couples
Tech-savvy guests

However, if you’re hosting a highly formal or traditional wedding, you may still prefer the timeless elegance of a printed invitation suite.

Ultimately, the best choice is the one that suits your wedding style, your guests, and your priorities.

Final thoughts

Wedding invitations are about more than sharing a date and venue – they’re the first glimpse your guests get into your celebration.

Whether you choose a beautifully printed suite, a fully digital invitation, or a combination of both, the goal remains the same: creating an experience that reflects your story as a couple.

And in a world where weddings are becoming more personal, intentional, and flexible, digital invitations are proving that sometimes the simplest option can also be the smartest.

ALSO SEE: Dos and Don’ts of wedding invitations

Dos and Don’ts of wedding invitations

Featured image: Recep ÇELİK / Pexels

In Competitions

Sensitive & Compromised Skin: Gentle Care That Truly Works

February 27, 2026 No Comments

Sensitive and compromised skin is more common than ever. Pollution, stress, over-exfoliation, harsh chemicals, actives and environmental extremes can weaken the skin barrier, leaving skin feeling tight, reactive, red or easily irritated. For many women, the challenge is finding skincare that is effective yet gentle, delivering visible improvement without triggering sensitivity.

This is where Beauté Pacifique Dermatology offers a reassuring and clinically proven solution. Developed in close collaboration with dermatologists, the brand is known for its ability to strengthen fragile skin rather than overwhelm it. The focus is simple but powerful: support the skin’s natural biology so it can repair, protect and calm itself. Try their international promise: Younger skin..or your money back!…

Unlike many products designed for sensitive skin that only soothe temporarily, Beauté Pacifique works at a cellular level. Its formulations are built around skin-identical vitamins, antioxidants and barrier-supporting ingredients that help rebuild the skin’s protective layer. When the barrier is restored, skin becomes less reactive, better hydrated and more resilient over time — results that are clinically documented rather than cosmetic claims.

For vegan skincare lovers and those seeking a more natural approach, the SuperFruit range is a true standout. This range harnesses the power of antioxidant-rich, natural superfruits such as lingonberry, sea buckthorn and cloudberry, known for their ability to calm inflammation, neutralise environmental stress and strengthen sensitive skin. The SuperFruit products are 100% vegan, fragrance-balanced for tolerance, and ideal for skin that reacts easily or feels chronically compromised.

What makes Beauté Pacifique Dermatology unique is that “natural” never means ineffective. The SuperFruit range combines plant-based actives with medical-grade formulation standards, ensuring stability, bioavailability and real results. Skin is soothed, redness is reduced and moisture levels improve, without clogging pores or irritating delicate skin.

For anyone struggling with sensitivity, redness or a weakened skin barrier, Beauté Pacifique Dermatology proves that skincare can be clinically proven, naturally inspired and beautifully gentle, offering calm, comfortable skin that looks healthy again.

www.beaute-pacifique.com CLINICALLY PROVEN – VITAMIN BASED – CLEAN DERMATLOGY

WIN 2 Sets of SuperFruit Skin Enforcement Skin care valued at R10 000!

Tell us your Skin Love story and stand a chance to WIN 2 Sets of SuperFruit Skin Enforcement Skin Care and a DermaValidator Ultrasound Experience for you and your BFF! Valued at R10 000

Follow @beautepacifique_sa on Instagram and FB
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In Rings

Big days, big feel: The fine details of a blissful beginning

February 19, 2026 No Comments

There is a certain electricity in the moments before a wedding, a soft, quiet magic that settles in the air. It’s in the rustle of a gown, the gentle touch of a guiding hand, and the shimmer of jewellery catching the light just before a life-changing “I do.” These delicate details shape the atmosphere of the day, anchoring emotion in ways words sometimes cannot.

At Sterns, we’ve always believed happiness is found in these finer moments. Jewellery becomes the most meaningful detail of all, the part of your story you carry with you long after the music fades and the flowers are packed away.

Because this love, this moment, this promise… It’s rare. A one-in-a-million kind of love that deserves to be captured with craftsmanship as beautiful as the story it represents.

Your Forever Starts Here

Choosing an engagement ring is one of the most significant decisions you’ll make on your journey to forever. It’s more than a symbol; it’s a vow you wear every day, a reminder of the moment your future shifted.

Sterns’ Forever Diamonds Collection is crafted for this moment. Each natural diamond is hand-selected for its brilliance and individuality, making every ring a unique expression of love. Just as Wedding ETC often celebrates modern, personal approaches to weddings from intimate ceremonies to trend-forward styling, this collection embraces individuality while honouring timeless romance. [weddingetc.co.za]

Whether your style leans toward the elegance of a classic solitaire, the vintage romance of a halo, or the modern allure of clean, minimalist lines, every Forever Diamonds ring is designed to reflect the emotion behind your “yes.”

Crafting a Proposal That Feels Like You

A proposal is more than a question; it’s a story you’ll tell for the rest of your life. In many of the features on Wedding ETC, couples are gravitating toward meaningful, personal moments over grand gestures.
It’s the sentiment that counts: the place where your love grew, the song that holds memories, or the simple traditions only the two of your share. [weddingetc.co.za]

The perfect proposal isn’t about extravagance but intention. A heartfelt moment at home, a scenic viewpoint at sunset, and a handwritten note leading to the ring, these details create the magic. And the right ring becomes the finishing touch, the detail that transforms the moment into forever.

Jewellery for Every Chapter of Love

Every love story is a tapestry of shared memories, early sparks, deepening connection, and milestones that shape your journey. Wedding ETC regularly highlights how couples today celebrate each milestone uniquely, from proposals to the final walk down the aisle.
Sterns embraces this same philosophy through jewellery crafted for every stage of your love story. [weddingetc.co.za]

For the early days: delicate pieces that capture youthful romance and promise.
For the engagement chapter: rings chosen with intention, reflecting the depth of your bond.
For the wedding day: heirloom-worthy designs that complete your bridal look.
For the years beyond: jewellery that grows with you, marking anniversaries and milestones.

These pieces become part of your journey, memories you can wear.

A Wedding Day That Feels Personal

One of the most meaningful aspects of planning a wedding is creating a day that reflects who you are as a couple. Wedding ETC is known for spotlighting current trends and timeless ideas, from intimate celebrations to bold, modern themes. [weddingetc.co.za]

Your theme sets the tone: classic romance, modern minimalism, soft pastel palettes, or the dreamy pearlescent accents trending for 2025. Whatever your choice, your jewellery should elevate it.

Diamond studs catch candlelight. A shimmering bracelet highlighting every movement. A pendant resting close to your heart. These aren’t just accessories, they’re emotional details that complete the feeling of the day.

Big Days, Big Feel

Your wedding is one of life’s biggest days, wrapped in emotion, joy, and significance. At Sterns, we create jewellery that honours that feeling, pieces that mark milestones, celebrate meaning, and capture the magic of forever.

Because when the day is big, the feeling should be even bigger.
And the details, especially the sparkling ones, should celebrate a love worth remembering.

Sterns: https://sternsonline.co.za/

In Sponsored

South Africans experience stress levels that make it difficult to cope – survey

February 11, 2026 No Comments

An international survey has shown that over 70 percent of South Africans have faced stress levels that make it difficult to cope with life’s demands and more than half have reported feeling so stressed that they were unable to attend work over the last year.

The Ipsos World Mental Health survey, based on three years of data from more than 23 000 participants across 31 countries, concentrated on the impacts of stress and depression on daily functioning. It revealed that stress is significantly affecting the workforce in South Africa.

Meanwhile, a separate report from UNICEF has revealed that at least 60 percent of young South Africans have required mental health assistance in the past year. Persistent obstacles highlighted include limited family discussions and uncertainty about where to seek aid.

South Africa ranks among the highest globally in mental health disorders due to factors such as poverty, unemployment, social and political unrest, and trauma due to exposure from violence and abuse. Access to mental health professionals and resources are also limited.

Health expert Vanessa Ascencao emphasised the importance of mental health for overall well-being, noting that mental illness has been shown to impact physical health, relationships, livelihoods and quality of life, particularly among young people. She called on both the government and South Africans to prioritise mental health as a crucial component of overall health.

“Make mental health a priority through self-care practices like regular exercise, healthy eating, connecting with loved ones and adopting relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and mindfulness. Spend time in nature as it’s a powerful antidote to stress. If you’re managing a mental illness, stick to your treatment plan, identify triggers, and seek help when necessary,” said Ascencao.

“In the midst of life’s many challenges, establishing a support network and adopting strategies to manage obstacles are crucial for emotional balance and resilience. Consider incorporating high-quality, natural stress relief solutions such as Rescue Gummies, which contains five unique Bach flower essences developed by Dr Edward Bach in the 1930s to assist in coping with emotional overwhelm,” Ascencao added.

Dr Edward Bach, a renowned physician and homeopath, advocated for a holistic approach to health, emphasizing the importance of nurturing both the mind and body. He dedicated his life to studying the therapeutic properties of flowers and plants as powerful tools for enhancing emotional well-being.

“Research shows that chewing can result in a significant reduction in anxiety. The Rescue Gummies are non-habit forming, delicious, easy to take on the go, vegan-friendly, gluten-free and contain no artificial flavours, sweeteners or synthetic dyes,” Ascencao said.

In Sponsored

Musgrave Pink Gin: A Little Romance in Every Drop

February 3, 2026 No Comments

There is a certain kind of magic that lingers around weddings – the quiet anticipation before guests arrive, the soft rustle of dresses, the way flowers seem to open just a little fuller on the morning of the ceremony. It’s a day shaped by small, beautiful gestures. The scent of roses. The glow of candlelight. The people you love gathered in one place. And somewhere between those moments, Musgrave Pink Gin has found a home.

Musgrave Pink Gin carries a gentle blush tone that seems made for weddings. Infused with rosewater and botanicals, its fragrance is soft and floral, like freshly opened petals on a warm day. Couples often describe it as a drink that feels “alive” in photographs – the kind that blends naturally into pastel tablescapes, bouquets, and golden-hour lighting. It doesn’t shout for attention; it glows.

A Taste That Belongs in a Celebration

There’s something about the first sip of Musgrave that feels like a sigh – light, fragrant, graceful. It moves easily with rose, citrus, berries, and herbs, allowing each couple to create cocktails that feel personal to them. A welcome drink with floating rose petals. A toast shared under fairy lights. A cocktail hour that smells faintly of summer gardens.

Musgrave has a way of slipping into the rhythm of a wedding without trying. It feels familiar, romantic, and quietly special.

50ml Miniatures for the Ones Who Came to Celebrate You

There is a sweetness in giving something small yet meaningful to the guests who surround you. Musgrave’s 50ml miniatures have become a favourite for this reason. They rest beautifully at each place setting – tiny bottles of blush pink, tied with ribbon or a handwritten note, waiting to be discovered.

Guests pick them up, smile, turn them over in their hands. It’s a keepsake they can enjoy later, long after the music fades and the flowers are packed away. A reminder of the day they shared with you.

And in photographs? They add the softest, most romantic touch – a hint of colour, a little sparkle, a lovely detail among lace, glassware, and roses.

Where Beauty Meets Experience

Planners and photographers love Musgrave for more than its taste. It’s a visual thread they can weave through the day. A bottle in a flatlay beside pearls and stationery. A tray of pink cocktails catching the light. A bar setup that invites guests to pause, explore, and enjoy.

Musgrave doesn’t try to be the focus. It simply joins the celebration with quiet elegance, filling spaces with warmth and charm.

Part of Your Story

Every wedding has its own heartbeat – soft or loud, classic or playful. Musgrave seems to find its place in all of them. Perhaps it’s the colour, perhaps the rosewater, or perhaps the simple truth that some things just belong where love gathers.

Whether it’s poured into a welcome drink, offered as a gentle thank-you to your guests, or photographed beside your bouquet, Musgrave Pink Gin adds a small, graceful moment to a day full of big feelings.

Where to Find Musgrave

If these little bottles of blush-pink joy feel right for your wedding, we’d love to help. Send us a message on Instagram or Facebook at @musgravespirits for more information.