Weddings are joyous, meaningful events, but they can also be resource-intensive. As couples increasingly seek to align their celebrations with their values, sustainable weddings are becoming not just a trend, but a deeply personal statement. In South Africa, where biodiversity, natural beauty, and community are central, the opportunity to craft an eco-friendly “I do” is rich.
This guide will walk you through how to plan a zero-waste or low-impact wedding in SA (eco stationery, floral reuse, composting, local sourcing, etc.), introduce you to sustainable vendors and venues, and provide a green checklist to keep you on track.
Why Go Green? The Case for Sustainable Weddings
-
Traditional weddings generate significant waste—single-use décor, imported flowers, excess food, printed materials, transport, etc.
-
A thoughtful, constrained approach can reduce carbon footprint, support local communities, and leave a positive legacy.
-
In South Africa, “small is the new big” is part of the sustainable shift: focusing on meaningful, intentional touches over sheer scale.
-
It’s also increasingly a differentiator: venues, vendors, and guests are more open (and enthusiastic) to sustainable practices.
How to Plan a Zero-Waste (or Low-Waste) SA Wedding
Here’s a roadmap, phase by phase, with strategies specific to South Africa.
A. Early Planning: Foundations of Sustainability
Define your green vision & priorities
Decide which elements matter most—waste reduction, local sourcing, charity donations, zero single-use plastics—and communicate that to all vendors.
Budget realistically for “green premium”
Some eco options cost more (e.g. compostable tableware, artisanal stationery), but others—like reduced décor spending or digital invites—can save money.
Select a venue with green practices
Choose venues that are nature-friendly or have sustainable infrastructure (rainwater harvesting, solar, off-grid capacity). For instance, iconic estates like Boschendal operate as a working farm with regenerative practices.
Green venues in SA are rising—check lists like “Going Green – Top Green Venues in South Africa” for options.
Group your guest list around location
Reduce travel emissions by inviting people from a concentrated region or offering shared transport. Venues nearer to the bulk of guests help.
B. Paper & Stationery: Eco Invitations & Communication
-
Go digital where possible: e-invites, wedding websites, digital save-the-dates. Many elevated digital platforms now mimic printed suites.
-
If you use paper, choose recycled, FSC-certified, or seed/plantable paper. South African suppliers may offer these—ask locally.
-
Use water-based or plant-derived inks, and design multifunctional cards (invite + RSVP + map) to reduce inserts.
-
Don’t overproduce: print minimal extra for keepsakes; rely on digital backups.
C. Florals, Foliage & Reusables
Work with sustainable florists
In South Africa, florists like Hannah Whitehead / Artisan Events are vocal about sustainable floral design: local, seasonal blooms, biodegradable mechanics (not floral foam), and repurposing leftover blooms.
Use indigenous, seasonal blooms
Proteas, fynbos, local wildflowers, succulents, medicinal herbs—flowers that grow in SA in season will reduce transport and support local growers.
Repurpose & reuse arrangements
-
Use potted plants (herbs, succulents, small trees): guests can take them home or you can replant/donate.
-
After the ceremony, transform altar arrangements to reception décor or donate to schools, hospitals, communities.
-
Choose containers that can be reused, rented, or returned—vases, jars, wooden crates, vintage vessels.
-
Avoid floral foam; use wire, reusable mechanics, or biodegradable alternatives.
Consider dried, preserved or dried-green elements
Grasses, seed pods, dried protea, preserved foliage, dried palm leaves—all make compelling, sustainable décor that can last as keepsakes.
D. Catering & Food Waste Management
Choose local, seasonal, ethically sourced menus
Ask your caterer to use farms nearby, support small producers, and reduce dependence on imported goods. Brahman Hills, for example, embraces a farm-to-table philosophy.
Offer plant-forward or vegetarian options
Plant-based dishes generally have lower environmental impact. Even reducing meat portions or focusing on seasonal veggies helps.
Portioning & just-in-time food
Work with caterers to avoid huge excess. Use tasting menus, scaled portions, and final guest counts.
Composting & waste separation
-
Partner with a waste management / composting service or ensure your venue can separate organics, recyclables, and general waste.
-
Compost leftover food and floral waste.
-
Encourage guests to take leftovers, where permitted.
Avoid single-use packaging
No plastic straws, single-use bottles, or polystyrene packaging. Use glass, reusable dispensers, or biodegradable options.
E. Décor, Linens & Rentals
-
Rent, borrow, reuse décor elements (linens, lighting, props, furniture).
-
Use vintage, secondhand, or upcycled items: old frames, mirrors, signage.
-
Opt for biodegradable or compostable décor (e.g., natural fiber linens, jute, sisal).
-
Ask vendors: “What happens to this item after the wedding?” and require reuse where possible.
F. Attire, Favours & Gifts
-
Consider rental, preloved or sustainable-design gowns/suits.
-
Bridesmaids & groomsmen: use multi-purpose outfits or pieces they can wear again.
-
Favours: eco-friendly gifts like seeds, beeswax wraps, plantable items, local artisan goods. Brahman Hills, for example, features this in its green weddings advice.
-
Gift registry: focus on sustainable or ethical homeware, or charitable registry options.
South Africa Sustainable & Green Vendor Spotlight
Here are real local examples you can explore or draw inspiration from. (Use these as leads; always vet details in your region.)
| Vendor / Venue | Location / Notes | What Makes Them Green / Sustainable |
|---|---|---|
| Earthware | South Africa (nationwide) | They sell compostable tableware made from fallen palm leaves. Their products decompose in about 60 days. |
| Boschendal Estate | Western Cape | A working farm and wine estate with regenerative farming, connecting weddings with nature and promoting sustainability. |
| The Greenhouse Café | Gauteng | Eco-elegance venue that uses seasonal produce, natural materials, and integrates with natural surroundings. |
| Garden Route / Artisan Events – Hannah Whitehead | Garden Route region | Known for writing about sustainable floral design and using local indigenous blooms. |
| Green / “Going Green” Venues in SA | Various (Wellington, Franschhoek, KZN, Pretoria) | Examples include Babylonstoren (farm garden + organic produce), Kraak in Wellington, Wingrove Valley, Intundla (bush style with organic garden, worm farms), etc. |
| Sustainable Decor & Event Suppliers | Varies | Many local decor/rental companies are beginning to introduce reusable, eco-friendly options per trends in SA wedding coverage. |
If you tell me your city or province (Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban, etc.), I can help you find sustainable vendors close to you.
Green Wedding Timeline & Checklist
| Stage | Eco Action Items |
|---|---|
| 12+ months out | Define sustainability goals; share with vendors; start sourcing reusable/rental décor; choose venue; map guest geography. |
| 9–6 months out | Book eco vendors; finalize menu; choose floral strategy; secure rental décor; design eco stationery. |
| 4–3 months out | Print minimal, order compostable tableware; confirm waste disposal/compost service; run floral trial for sustainable designs. |
| 1 month out | Final guest count; coordinate waste streams; confirm delivery logistics; remind guests of green guidelines. |
| Day-of & After | Waste separation, composting, donation of decor/flowers; residual clean-up; send thank-you notes (e- or recycled). |
Quick Checklist Highlights:
-
Venue that supports green practices
-
Local, sustainable catering
-
Digital or eco stationery
-
Florals: local, reused, potted, composted
-
Rentals & reusables over new purchases
-
Waste separation & composting
-
Sustainable attire & favours
Challenges & Tips: Making It Practical
-
Not everything needs to be zero: Even small sustainable choices (avoiding plastic, composting) make a difference.
-
Vendor education: Some vendors may be unfamiliar. Share your values, offer resources, and allow flexibility.
-
Budget trade-offs: Prioritize where eco impact is highest (food, décor, waste) and reduce elsewhere.
-
Backup plans: E.g., in case of rain, have compostable covers or indoor space in mind.
-
Communication with guests: Include a line in your invitations/website about your green goals (“We are aiming for zero waste—please support by …”).
-
Track & reflect: After the wedding, measure what worked/what didn’t, and share your eco story (helps future couples and vendors).
Sample Green Wedding Story (Illustration)
To illustrate, here’s how one South African couple made their wedding eco:
-
Venue: Boschendal estate (farm & regenerative site)
-
Stationery: Digital invite + seed paper menu cards
-
Florals: Local proteas, fynbos, repurposed ceremony arrangement moved to reception
-
Décor: Rented wooden crates, vintage bottles, reused signage
-
Catering: Seasonal, locally sourced menu, composting of food waste
-
Tableware: Earthware palm-leaf compostables
-
Favours: Beeswax wraps, potted succulents
-
Waste: On-site separation + composting service
The result? A beautiful, meaningful celebration with minimal waste and a strong sustainability narrative.
Closing Thoughts & Call to Action
An eco, green, sustainable wedding is more than a checklist—it’s a reflection of your values, your respect for place, and your love extended into action. In South Africa, you have a rich palette of indigenous beauty, local craftsmanship, and communities ready to co-create a wedding that’s deeply personal and planet-positive.
Featured Image: Canva
Creating Instagram-Worthy Tablescapes for a Pink Gin Inspired Wedding The tradition of wedding favours dates back centuries, symbolising gratitude and hospitality to guests who share in the couple’s…
In recent years, the wedding beauty spotlight has expanded beyond the bride and grooms are increasingly owning their moment. From subtle skin enhancement to full grooming routines, many men are embracing beauty practices to feel confident and camera-ready. Below, we explore the trend, offer practical routines, share tips for subtle male makeup, and feature insights from makeup artists who work with grooms.
Why the Groom Makeup & Beauty Trend Is Growing
-
According to Vogue Business, searches for “groom makeup” rose 42% in the past year, and posts referencing male beauty and nails have increased significantly.
-
The shift reflects broader cultural changes toward gender-inclusive beauty norms, as well as the fact that wedding photos and videos are scrutinized more than ever.
-
Men are not just getting haircuts and cologne—they’re investing in facials, skincare serums, beard grooming, tinted products, and even cosmetic treatments (e.g. Botox or fillers) to achieve sharper, more camera-friendly features.
-
As one makeup artist Damilola Adejonwo notes, many male clients seek a “skin prep + powder + oil control” look, rather than dramatic makeup; some do opt for fuller glam, especially in LGBTQ+ weddings.
Groom Skincare & Pre-Wedding Grooming Routine
To ensure that makeup (if used) sits well, and the skin appears healthy and luminous, here’s a layered routine grooms can adopt in the months leading up to the wedding:
| Timeframe | Focus | Actions / Tips |
|---|---|---|
| 3–6 months ahead | Building foundation | Start a consistent skincare regimen, cleanse, exfoliate (1–2× weekly), moisturize, sunscreen daily. See a dermatologist or facialist for tailored treatments (chemical peels, microdermabrasion) if needed. Begin nail, eyebrow, and beard grooming (clean trims, shaping, conditioning). |
| 1–2 months ahead | Touch-ups & trial | Do a trial with the makeup artist to test products and tones under your wedding lighting / photography setup. Use hydrating masks, under-eye treatments, and final exfoliation carefully (avoid irritation). Keep consistent sleep, hydration, healthy diet—skin shows your lifestyle. |
| 1 week ahead | Maintenance & rest | Avoid trying new products; stick to your tried routine. Get a gentle facial (no aggressive peels). Trim beard and hair; shape brows gently. Use nights for richer moisturizer; morning for light coverage or sunscreen. |
| Wedding day | Priming & finishing | Cleanse and hydrate, apply primer or mattifier, under-eye corrector, very light coverage (e.g. tinted moisturizer or skin tint), press-powder to control shine. Touch-ups via blotting papers or compact powder throughout the day. Keep grooming kit on standby (small comb, beard oil, clear lip balm). |
Additional tips:
-
Use sunscreen always—even when indoors—since UV light affects skin tone.
-
Don’t over-exfoliate or strip the skin; balance is key.
-
Grooming is more than face: hands, nails, lips, and even ears/neck should be clean and cared for.
How to Speak to Male Makeup Subtly for Camera
When applying makeup on grooms, the goal is to enhance, not transform. Here’s how makeup artists approach it:
-
Less is more: Use sheer or skin-tint products rather than heavy foundations; the aim is imperceptible enhancement.
-
Correct first, then polish: Conceal dark circles, redness, or blemishes; then even tone with minimal coverage.
-
Matte / soft finish: Use a translucent powder or mattifier in zones prone to shine (T-zone, nose). Avoid overly dewy finishes unless tailored to skin type.
-
Beard & hair integration: For men with beards, makeup artists often feather product into beard edges to soften harsh lines. Hair fibers or tinted eyebrow / lash products may be used to fill sparse areas.
-
Blending & lighting: Blend product well into skin, check under different light sources (natural light, flash) to avoid unnatural edges or color mismatches.
-
Allow input & comfort: Many grooms will be new to makeup; the artist should explain steps, show swatches, and make the process comfortable.
Voices from Makeup Artists & Experts
Here are a few perspectives from professionals working with grooms:
-
Damilola Adejonwo (male makeup specialist) notes that many grooms approach makeup tentatively. He emphasizes asking questions, listening closely to their comfort level, and focusing on subtle skin prep as many have never worn makeup before.
-
In a bridal / groom makeup guide by Beauty Intervention, artists highlight key correction areas: skin tone, under-eye, blemishes, and balancing shine. They also note how male clients often want a quick, efficient session (15–20 minutes) rather than a full glam routine.
-
One industry observation: “the groom definitely does not take as much time” as the bride’s makeup, but logistical planning is essential (artists may need to relocate, schedule buffer times) to accommodate both.
Featured Image: Canva
Weddings are evolving and so are their color stories. Where soft neutrals once reigned supreme, 2025 is ushering in a bold new era of moody, jewel-toned palettes: think…
Every bride dreams of that effortless wedding-day glow — the kind that looks fresh, radiant, and untouched by stress. But between last-minute seating plans, makeup trials, and a whirlwind of emotions, your skin might not be on the same timeline. The good news? You can still wake up looking luminous, even if the big day is just hours away.
Dermatologists say achieving completely clear skin overnight isn’t always realistic, but a visible overnight boost? Absolutely possible. Here’s how to prep your skin the night before your wedding for that naturally radiant, camera-ready finish.
Cleanse Like You Mean It
Before bed, give your skin a fresh start. Use a gentle cream-to-oil cleanser that melts away makeup and dirt without stripping your skin. Harsh scrubs are a no-go right before your wedding — they can leave your skin sensitive or red.
Try local favourites like Africology’s Gentle Cleansing Cream or Skin Creamery’s Oil-Milk Cleanser for a smooth, hydrated base that glows by morning.
Try A Natural Skin Booster
Your kitchen cupboard might just hold a secret weapon: apple cider vinegar. Used as a gentle toner, it helps balance your skin and calm any surprise breakouts. Apply a small amount with a cotton pad before bed — it’s mild enough for most skin types and works overnight to refresh and clarify. The smell isn’t glamorous, but the glow is.
Hydrate With A Sheet Mask
Few things feel more luxurious than a pre-wedding sheet mask moment. Choose one packed with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, avocado oil, or aloe vera. Leave it on for 15–20 minutes to plump and refresh your skin. By morning, you’ll look like you’ve had eight hours of spa sleep.
Skip The Salt, Drink The Water
Salty snacks and wedding stress might go hand in hand, but they’re the enemies of glowing skin. Sodium causes puffiness, especially under the eyes, which can make you look tired. Instead, drink plenty of water or a cup of caffeine-free rooibos tea to stay hydrated and de-puffed.
Bonus tip: add cucumber slices or lemon to your water for a natural detox effect.
Add A Few Drops Of Oil
If you’ve been avoiding facial oils, it’s time to rethink it. Non-comedogenic oils like marula, argan, or sunflower seed nourish your skin and seal in moisture overnight. Just a few drops under your night cream can make a visible difference by morning — softer, smoother, and more radiant skin awaits.
Brighten The Eyes
Late-night wedding prep can leave your eyes showing it first. A brightening eye cream with vitamin C or caffeine will help reduce puffiness and dark circles. Gently massage from your temples toward the inner corners to boost circulation and bring back that lively, well-rested look.
Don’t Pop Pimples
If a pimple dares to show up before your big day, hands off. Popping it will only make it worse. Instead, dab a calming spot treatment or a little plain yogurt — yes, yogurt — which naturally soothes inflammation and helps the skin heal overnight.
Keep Your Hands Away From Your Face
This one’s simple but crucial: don’t touch your face. Even clean hands can transfer bacteria that trigger breakouts. If you need to fix your hair or makeup, keep a clean tissue nearby to avoid unnecessary contact.
What This Means for You:
No miracle product can erase months of stress in one night — but with the right routine, you can absolutely revive your glow before your wedding. Keep it gentle, stay hydrated, and focus on nourishing rather than overdoing.
By the time the sun rises, your skin will be rested, radiant, and ready for your moment down the aisle.
Marriage isn’t just about the wedding day. It’s about the long road after the confetti and celebrations have settled—the arguments, the quiet moments, the decisions that shape your…
In 2025, wedding decor is embracing a bold new trend: immersive, floor-to-ceiling environments that envelop guests in a cohesive and dramatic atmosphere. Gone are the days of focusing solely on tablescapes and centerpieces; today’s couples are designing entire experiences that captivate the senses from every angle.
The Rise of Immersive Wedding Environments
The concept of immersive wedding decor involves transforming every inch of a venue—from the floor beneath your feet to the ceiling above your head—into a unified design statement. This approach creates a sense of continuity and depth, making the space feel like a living, breathing extension of your love story.
One of the most striking elements of this trend is the use of statement ceilings. Elaborate ceiling decorations, such as floral chandeliers, hanging greenery, and intricate drapery, draw the eye upward and add dimension and elegance to the space. These installations not only enhance the visual appeal but also set the tone for the entire event.
Floor Treatments That Wow
The floor is no longer an overlooked surface; it’s a canvas for creativity. Creative floor wraps and projections are becoming popular choices for couples looking to add a personalized touch to their wedding decor. These treatments can feature monograms, floral patterns, or even custom designs that reflect the couple’s journey together. By incorporating these elements, couples can create a cohesive look that ties the entire venue together.
Lighting: The Secret Ingredient
Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood and highlighting design elements. Ambient lighting, such as draped fabrics illuminated by soft lights, can create a dreamy atmosphere. Projection mapping is another innovative technique that projects visuals onto walls, ceilings, and floors, transforming the space into a dynamic environment that tells a story.
Floral Installations That Reach New Heights
Floral arrangements are evolving beyond traditional centerpieces. Floor-to-ceiling floral installations are making a statement at weddings, with flowers cascading from the ceiling or climbing walls to create a garden-like atmosphere. These installations not only add beauty but also bring a touch of nature indoors, enhancing the immersive experience.
Tips for Creating Your Own Immersive Wedding Decor
-
Start with a Theme: Choose a theme that resonates with you as a couple. Whether it’s a celestial night sky, a lush garden, or a modern minimalist design, your theme will guide your decor choices.
-
Work with Professionals: Collaborate with experienced wedding planners and designers who specialize in immersive environments. Their expertise will help bring your vision to life.
-
Consider Your Venue: Ensure that your chosen decor elements are suitable for your venue’s size and structure. Some installations may require additional support or permissions.
-
Balance Aesthetics and Functionality: While it’s tempting to go all out with decor, remember that comfort and functionality are key. Ensure that your decor doesn’t obstruct pathways or create hazards.
By embracing the floor-to-ceiling decor trend, couples can create a wedding environment that is not only visually stunning but also emotionally resonant. This immersive approach transforms a wedding into a memorable experience that guests will cherish long after the day has passed.
Featured Image: Canva