More and more young couples are moving away from wedding traditions. From having both parents and siblings walk the bride down the aisle, to not throwing the bouquet, and now swopping out wedding bands for tattoos.
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/
You’ve heard about the 4 C’s in diamonds, especially when choosing an engagement ring, but what do they actually mean?
The 4 C’s – cut, colour, clarity and carat – refer to the standards by which the quality of diamonds are assessed and allows one to compare diamonds.
Cut
The cut is important for the diamond’s overall beauty, as it determines how well the diamond unleashes light. This is not to be confused with the shape of the diamond. Cut refers to the diamond’s light performance (in layman’s terms, how much it sparkles). The cut will determine how the stone refracts and reflects light. A perfect stone (balanced and symmetrical) will be cut in such a way that the light that enters it will only reflect out the top of the stone, therefore making it very sparkly. A diamond that is cut too shallow or too deep will cause the light to leak out of the sides or bottom of the stone which causes a loss of shine. The sparkle of a well cut diamond can make it appear larger and you can therefore opt for a smaller carat weight. Who knew, right?!
Colour
Strangely enough, this actually refers to the lack of colour found in a diamond. The less colour, the more rate it is. Diamonds are graded on a scale of D-Z; with D (or white diamonds) being completely colourless. D-F are considered colourless and are therefore the most expensive. G-I are near colourless and slightly less expensive while J-Z have noticeable colour in the stone. Only diamond experts can actually tell the difference in anything higher than a G grading, so if budget is a consideration but you still want a white-looking diamond, a G or H grade diamond will be perfectly fine.
Clarity
Measures the imperfections found in the diamond in terms of number, size and position on a scale that ranges from imperfect to flawless. Internal imperfections are referred to as inclusions and external as blemishes. Clarity is often considered the least important of the 4 C’s due to the fact that the imperfections are often microscopic and depending on the location of the inclusions found in the stone, they can be hidden with the right ring setting.
Carat
Refers to the weight of the diamond, not the size. Two different shaped diamonds can have the same carat weight but appear slightly different in size. With a larger carat weight, the colour becomes more visible and therefore needs to be taken into consideration.
Once you understand the 4 C’s, you will need to think about which one is the most important to you when choosing your ring.
ALSO SEE: (Don’t) put a ring on it
Feature image: The Glorious Studio/Pexels
The mother of the bride role comes with clear and concise instructions. So do the roles of father of the bride and maid of honour – but one of the most important, yet often overlooked roles, is that of the father of the groom.
As times change, the duties allocated to the groom’s father have too, so if you’re unsure what to expect here are some unspoken guidelines.
1. Suit up
Possibly one of the most important duties of the groom’s father is that of suit selection. A son will often rely on his father to help pick out the perfect attire for his big day, give him a few tips and even make sure the tailor fit is just right.
If the groom and groomsmen have an appointment for suit fittings the groom’s father should naturally attend as well and might be able to cash in on a discount along with the group.
It is also important that you look the part for the big day so make sure you take your own fitting seriously.
2. Offer to contribute to wedding costs
It’s no secret that weddings cost a pretty penny – one of the most important ways to be involved and supportive of your son’s commitment is to be financially supportive.
Offer up whatever you can to go towards the big day and ask where budget is needed.
3. Attend or host the rehearsal dinner
It some traditions the groom’s parents host the rehearsal dinner. This is the perfect opportunity for the groom’s father to step up and take centre stage to coordinate the night. Keep in mind what your son’s interests are, make sure the rehearsal is something that reflects his personality.
4. Help where you can
When it comes to weddings, there are so many aspects to consider and things to be done. As a supportive and proactive father of the groom, it is your duty to help where you can. Ensure you don’t limit your helpfulness to any specific duties and try your best to be available if needed. If you have a particular expertise that might come in handy, don’t be shy to offer.
5. Hang out with the boys
When the morning of the wedding arrives, it’s the father of the groom’s duty to hang with the boys and provide extra emotional support before the big event.
It’s important to be supportive, positive and maybe even share a few funny stories about the groom’s childhood with his good friends to calm the nerves.
Compliment your son on his wedding-day look and make him feel confident and ready to take to the alter. This is a special moment to give him some marital advice.
6. Greet guests
It goes without saying the the father of the groom should be prepared to greet guests, especially in the receiving line.
Don’t be shy and put on your best, most welcoming smile while tending to each person who has come to share the special day with the lucky couple.
7. Enjoy
You can’t attend such an important day without enjoying it. Make sure you spend your time at the wedding well and smile, dance, eat and be merry.
8. Say a little something
Last but certainly not least, prepare a speech. It can often be a daunting task to put your thoughts on paper and especially to read them out to a room full of people, but this is your chance to rise above the nerves.
Your speech does not have to be lengthy, in fact short and sweet is better.
Make sure you put your heart into whatever you have to say, its not everyday that you get to share the first day of the rest of your child’s life with them and send them off with words that they will surely remember for years and years to come.
ALSO SEE: Nail your wedding speech
Picture: Pexels
Singer, businesswoman and media personality Amor Vittone is engaged. The star shared the happy news on social media on 28 January, posting a photo of her elegant engagement ring alongside the simple, heartfelt caption: “I said yes.”
The announcement was met with an outpouring of love, as fans and friends celebrated a new chapter for the multi-talented performer, who has long been a familiar and much-loved face in South African media. She is also widely known as the former wife of late Springbok rugby legend Joost van der Westhuizen
A love story that began in pretoria
Amor Vittone’s fiancé is Marius van Biljon, a businessman, radio presenter and MC. The couple first crossed paths at Captain’s Island, Van Biljon’s family restaurant in Pretoria.
Their connection began professionally when Vittone performed at the restaurant, but it didn’t end there. She later returned for a Women’s Day celebration, and it was during these encounters that something more meaningful started to take shape.
Finding love after loss
For Van Biljon, this engagement marks a deeply significant new beginning. He was previously married to Shannon van Biljon, the late Mrs Pretoria Tshwane 2023, who passed away in July 2025 following a brief illness related to early-stage kidney failure.
The couple recently spoke about their story in an interview on Jacaranda FM, offering listeners a glimpse into how their relationship grew organically.
ALSO SEE: Locally loved flowers for your wedding bouquet
Feature image: Amor Vittone/Facebook
Calling the family and posting on the Gram? Duh! But what else should you do after he’s popped the question?
1 CELEBRATE!
This doesn’t have to be a full-on engagement party just yet. In the days after you announce your impending nuptials, your phone will be buzzing off the hook with well-wishers hoping to see you as soon as possible and hear all about how he got down on one knee. So plan a little get-together to pop bottles with your nearest and dearest and tell them everything. Or, if you are a more low-key kind of couple, simply have a special night for two to revel in all the butterflies you’re feeling at the moment. Being engaged is a wonderful time. Enjoy it to the fullest.
2 GET YOUR RING INSURED (AND SIZED!)
The months leading up to your wedding are going to be split between days of pure joy and days of pure admin… So. Much. Admin. First up: You now have a small fortune on your finger, so be sure to protect your new asset and get it insured. Your guy should’ve been supplied with a valuation certificate upon purchase, but if not, take it to any reputable jeweller to get a value estimate. Send this to your insurance company to get it covered in case it gets lost or stolen. And while you’re at it, have it sized perfectly for your finger to make losing it less likely.
3 SET A (VAGUE) DATE
After “Let me see the ring!” and “How did he propose?”, the next most asked question you’ll get at this stage is “When’s the wedding?”. Unless you know exactly how it’s going to go down to the very last detail on a sunny day in February, you probably haven’t even thought about a date. Chat to your hubby-to-be and come up with a ‘thereabouts’ answer. Whether it’s “next summer” or “in three years’ time”, giving people some sort of timeline will ease the bombardment while also letting your guests mentally save the date.
4 DETERMINE THE TYPE OF WEDDING
Small getaway wedding or the do of the year at an exclusive wine farm? Figuring this out with your man is the best starting point of the planning to come, as it will help you determine everything from what venues to look at, to your all-important budget and guest list size.
5 GATHER INSPIRATION
Real talk time. Everyone from Chatty Cathy at the office to your mom and well-meaning-but-pushy friends are going to start pressuring you to begin planning. There’s so much to do, after all. Yes, Cathy, there is… but there’s no need to jump into contacting vendors and venues now if you don’t have the basics decided yet. You’ll cut down on a lot of wasted time if you know what you want before getting stuck in. Get on Pinterest and flip through wedding magazines. This is the fun part! Make a mood board with the images you love and you’ll soon start to see your dream day to come to life. Once you know what you want, seeking out the right vendors for you will be that much easier.
BOOK AN ENGAGEMENT SHOOT
Photographers get snapped up way in advance, so if this is a route you want to go down – book it now! Otherwise, call on your creative friends to help set up a photoshoot of the two of you on the beach, in a forest, or even at home just being yourselves. Smartphone cameras are more than enough to get some amazing shots (don’t forget the dreamy filters!).
ALSO SEE: Locally loved flowers for your wedding bouquet
Written by Andrea Robertson for Summer 2019 print edition.
Feature image: Pexels
While Beyonce might not agree, there are smarter ways to show ‘you like it’ than with a pricey engagement ring
As much as many of us may long for the sparkle of a diamond ring and the iconic ‘I said yes!’ Instagram reveal picture, the reality of it is that with the ongoing increases in the cost of living and the added expenses of a wedding looming, a huge engagement ring isn’t always very practical. But budget constraints need not to cramp your bridal bliss, especially if you change your thinking.
I’m a big believer of choosing an affordable ring, as I don’t think couples should start out their life together in debt
Ring in a new life
For Tamlyn Jacobus, the ability to afford an enjoyable life together far outweighed the need for an engagement ring.
‘If I were to follow societal traditions and has asked for a 1-2 carat, colourless princess cut, it would have set us back for the lifestyle we choose to live. Exploring eateries and travelling to different places in our region is something we enjoy doing regularly. Knowing spending money on a huge ring and that a big wedding wasn’t on the cards allowed us to go away on a few mini-escapes before saying I do.’
Tamlyn and Camilo eloped – and used the cash they saved to buy a home of their own. Tamlyn now wears a dainty white-gold band to signify their marriage.
Up, up and away
With a new generation redefining cultural and societal norms, we’re seeing new trends grow in popularity and with more and more people aspiring to travel, it’s no surprise that honeymoons are getting all the love.
‘My husband didn’t get a ring. He got me a simple engagement ring, but no wedding ring. I rarely wear the engagement ring. Instead of spending on the wedding or on rings, we travelled for weeks through South East Asia and put a deposit down on a townhouse,’ says Wendy van Eyck.
Soon-to-be-bride Kerri Davis agrees:
‘My ring has an amethyst stone and cost about R400. We saved for a two-week honeymoon to Thailand.’
Less ka-ching, more bling
‘I’m a big believer of choosing an affordable ring, as I don’t think couples should start out their life together in debt,’ says Tiffany Marx – Inspired Jewellery. It’s possible to have a beautiful engagement ring without breaking the bank. Here are Tiffany’s top tips for budget-friendly ring-buying:
Choose an alternative stone
Slightly tinted diamonds (like Champagne and salt-and-pepper diamonds) have become very popular. They are so different and much more affordable than whiter diamonds. Moissanite is also great options.
Buy a mount
These are cast rings that one can set the central stone-stones into. Although I would personally always suggest a handmade ring, choosing a mount tends to be a less expensive exercise as the ring is not a bespoke, handmade item.
Work with a jeweller
Many retail shops will only offer you traditional rings as that is what they sell. Try and find a jeweller whose style you like and is willing to work with whatever budget you have. At the end of the day, you can create a really beautiful ring regardless of the materials that are used if you have a good design.
ALSO SEE: Busted! 5 Common engagement ring myths debunked
Feature image: Unsplash
Article written by Bianca Hartel for the Summer 2019 print issue.
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?
Written by Zoe Erasmus for Getaway.
Feature image: Pexels
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
View this post on Instagram
– Garden dinner
View this post on Instagram
– Wine and cheese tasting
– Casino party
View this post on Instagram
– At home silent disco
– Glamping for a night
– A bonfire at the beach
View this post on Instagram
– Dress up/themed party
– Backyard movie night
View this post on Instagram
– Cocktail party
– Sunset cruise
View this post on Instagram
– Build-your-own pizza night
View this post on Instagram
– Pool party
View this post on Instagram
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
Image: Pexels
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
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
Source: IOL
Feature image: Instagram/Venus Williams