Weddings are no longer just about one big day. Couples are embracing multi-day experiences or weekend getaway weddings that allow more time, deeper connection, and richer storytelling. Instead of squeezing every moment into a single ceremony and reception, the modern wedding becomes an immersive journey, full of intimate events, meaningful downtime, and memorable shared moments with loved ones.
What’s Driving the Shift Toward Multi-Day & Weekend Celebrations
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Guest investment and travel: With many guests flying in or travelling long distances, couples are finding that a one-day event feels too fleeting. Stretching the celebration over a weekend, or more, honours that effort.
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Desire for meaningful moments: More time means more opportunity for authentic connection, relaxed schedules, exploration, and memories that go beyond formalities.
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Experiential trend: Weddings are becoming less just “ceremony & party” and more “experience” — themed dinners, local culture immersion, wellness, and fun activities before and after the big event.
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Venues & accommodations: Venues that offer overnight stays and estates that allow weekend access are becoming more popular. The ability to rent a full estate or guesthouse or to host all guests on-site adds cohesion and ease.
What a Typical Multi-Day Wedding Timeline Looks Like
While each wedding will be unique, many weekend or multi-day weddings in 2025 follow a format similar to this:
| Day | Event Ideas |
|---|---|
| Day -1 / Arrival Day / Eve of the Wedding | Welcome dinner or cocktails; casual mingling; optional activity like wine tasting, spa evening, sunset stroll or local excursion. |
| Day 0 / Wedding Day | Ceremony; main reception; often some downtime before or after; evening after-party. |
| Day +1 / Post-Wedding | Brunch or relaxed morning gathering; optional “recovery” events (pool party, nature walk, group spa); farewells. |
| Optional Additional Days | Sightseeing, cultural tours, adventure or wellness experiences; optional group activities for guests who stay longer. |
Benefits & Challenges to Consider
Benefits
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More intimate connection: Guests have more time to bond; bride & groom can enjoy more moments beyond the rush.
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Creative variety: Multiple events mean more opportunities for theme changes, styling, performances, decor variations.
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Greater value for travel: Guests feel their trip was worthwhile, not just a few hours of party but a richer shared experience.
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Relaxed pacing: Less stress compressing everything into one day; more breathing room for timing, photography, vendor setups.
Challenges
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Cost & logistics: More days means more accommodation, food, vendor hours, and travel logistics.
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Guest fatigue: Some guests may not be able to commit extra days; need to balance with rest and downtime.
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Higher planning demands: More events = more coordination. It requires a clear itinerary, excellent communication, and contingency planning.
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Season and location realities: Weather, transport, local infrastructure, venue availability can complicate multi-day setups.
2025 Trends & Ideas for Weekend Wedding Getaways
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“Wed-cations” or destination stays: Couples are booking properties or resorts for entire weeks, making the wedding part of a vacation experience.
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Signature local experiences: Incorporating excursions (vineyards, hikes, cultural tours), local food & artisans into multiple event days.
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Wellness & rest elements: Yoga, massage, nature time, sunset walks, giving guests moments to recharge.
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Stylish welcome & farewell events: From casual beach bonfires to formal welcome dinners or elegant brunches the next day.
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Sustainability & local sourcing: Choosing local vendors, seasonal food, reusable décor, reducing travel footprint as much as possible.
How to Plan a Seamless Multi-Day Wedding Experience
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Define your priorities & guest list early – How many events will you host? Which guests will be invited to each? What are must-have vs optional?
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Choose a venue that accommodates lodging & multiple events – Estates, guesthouses, resorts or private properties with enough space and flexibility.
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Design a clear itinerary & share it ahead of time – Let guests know dress codes, event times, travel/transportation, and optional activities. A printed or digital program helps.
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Think guest comfort – Travel arrangements, lodging comfort, transport between venues, clear signage, rest periods.
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Budget accordingly – Include extra days, staff costs, catering, décor, entertainment, travel. Build in buffer for unexpected expenses.
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Tell your story across multiple events – Let each event feel connected yet distinct; theme continuity in décor, food, music can help.
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Hire vendors who understand the format – Photographers, caterers, planners who have experience with weekend weddings or multi-day events.
Multi-day weddings and weekend getaways aren’t just trends in 2025, they’re reflections of how couples want their weddings to feel: immersive, meaningful, and shared experiences. When done well, these celebrations honour not only the couple’s love but also the effort of guests, creating memories that stretch beyond a single evening.
If you’re dreaming of this format, lean into what makes you and your partner unique. Choose location, events, moments that align with your values and story and let the magic unfold over more than just one day.
Featured Image: Canva
When a bride asks her closest friends or family members to stand by her side, she isn’t just inviting them to look beautiful in matching dresses, she’s inviting…
Weddings are joyous, but they often come with long to-do lists, overwhelming choices, and emotional ups and downs. For busy couples, taking intentional steps toward wellness, physically, mentally, emotionally can make the journey to “I do” more peaceful, more connected, and more sustainable. Here are well-rounded strategies and tips for staying strong as a pair in 2025.
1. Pre-Wedding Fitness: Finding Time, Staying Motivated
Starting early and building a routine that fits both partners is key.
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Timeline & Progressive Routines
Experts recommend beginning fitness routines 9-12 months before your wedding if possible. Starting with moderate workouts and gradually increasing intensity gives your body time to adjust without burnout. -
Mix Cardio, Strength, Flexibility
Combine strength training (upper body, core, legs), cardio (walks, dance, cycling), and flexibility or mobility work (yoga or stretching). This supports posture, endurance, and energy for long wedding days. -
Short & Efficient Workouts for Busy Schedules
Even 20-30 minutes sessions, a few times a week, can make a difference. Short bursts, HIIT style, or structured strength + mobility circuits help maximize results when time is tight. -
Nutrition & Sleep
Good routines include consistent sleep, hydration, balanced whole-foods, reducing processed sugar and unhealthy fats. Sleep helps recovery, mood, appearance—skin, energy levels etc. -
Partner Accountability
Exercising together, checking in on each other’s progress, perhaps hiring a trainer or following a couple’s workout plan can help both stay motivated.
Mental Health & Stress-Management
Wedding planning stresses are real. Tackling mental health head-on helps keep things joyful.
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Mindfulness & Meditation Practices
Short daily sessions even 5-10 minutes in breathing, mindfulness meditation or guided imagery can reduce anxiety, improve focus, and help both partners stay present. -
Communication & Boundaries
Set up regular check-ins with each other about how you’re feeling (stressed, overwhelmed, excited). Be honest about what help you need. Boundaries around planning, chores, guest communications can prevent resentment. -
Professional Support When Needed
Consider couples’ therapy or counseling if you find recurring conflict, anxiety, or depressive feelings. South Africa has registration bodies like HPCSA for counselors/psychologists. Retreats or wellness weekends can also serve as reset moments. -
Self-Care Rituals
Build small rituals into your life: evening walks together, regular massages, disconnecting from social media, reading, journaling. These little acts can recharge both mind and relationship.
Mindfulness & Being Present
It’s easy to get lost in logistics. Cultivating slow, supportive practices keeps love front and centre.
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Mindful Planning
Before each planning session, take a moment together to ground yourselves—deep breaths, check-in: how is each person doing emotionally? Then proceed. -
Shared Rituals
Perhaps weekly yoga, meditation, or doing a hobby together as a stress relief. Shared wellness helps bond and reminds both of why you’re getting married. -
Gratitude Practices
Each day, share one thing you appreciate about the other or about the process. It can shift mindset away from stress toward enjoyment. -
Digital Detox Times
Set times when you’ll avoid wedding-related social media, emails, or group chats. Just as important as outcome planning is maintaining mental rest.
Sample Plan: A 6-Month Wellness Checklist for Couples
| Time Frame | Fitness Action | Mental Health / Mindfulness Action |
|---|---|---|
| 6-12 months out | Establish 3×/week workout routine; try one new physical activity together | Begin couple’s meditation; schedule monthly couple check-ins |
| 3-6 months out | Increase strength training; refine diet with more whole foods; ensure rest days | Identify stress triggers; consider therapist or counselor sessions if needed; start journaling |
| 1-2 months out | Focus on mobility, posture, relaxation (yoga, stretching) | Plan self-care days; reduce external stress; practice gratitude; rest well |
| Wedding week | Light workouts to stay limber; avoid over-exertion | Minimal tech/social media; calming routines; ensure sleep; rituals to ground yourselves before big day |
Why Wellness Matters, Beyond Looking Great
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Improved energy & stamina for long wedding day events.
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Better mood regulation: less fighting, more enjoyment of the process.
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Connecting deeply as a couple, not just planning partners but also emotional supports.
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Wedding memories richer when anxiety is lower and presence is higher.
Featured Image: Canva
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The Free State, with its vast open plains, majestic mountains, and charming small towns, offers a plethora of breathtaking wedding venues. Whether you’re envisioning a rustic barn celebration, a fairytale orchard ceremony, or a luxurious estate affair, the Free State has something to suit every couple’s dream. Here are some of the most beautiful and unique wedding venues in the province for 2025.
R’new @Vaal – Vaal Dam
Situated along the banks of the Vaal Dam, R’new @Vaal offers a unique blend of nature and luxury. Couples can exchange vows within ancient Khoisan bushmen stone circles or in the heart of a magnificent Chartres Labyrinth, beautifully lined with roses, grapevines, and botanicals. The venue boasts luxuriously appointed rooms, a botanical gin distillery, and a homestead and spa for ultimate relaxation.
Goose Hill Wedding & Guest Farm – Bethlehem
Nestled in the heart of the Free State, Goose Hill Wedding & Guest Farm offers a picturesque setting for your special day. The venue features a charming chapel, spacious reception area, and on-site accommodation, making it ideal for both intimate and grand celebrations.
The Rosendal Country Retreat – Rosendal
Located in the quaint hamlet of Rosendal, The Rosendal Country Retreat is surrounded by the stunning Witteberge mountains. The venue features the charming Sandstone Chapel, perfect for a romantic ceremony, and offers two unique reception venues: The Gallery, a modern glass and steel space with mountain views, and the Ballroom, a larger venue with a cozy lounge and a magical ambiance created by thousands of fairy lights.
Welgelegen Cherry Estate – Ficksburg
Known as the cherry capital of South Africa, Ficksburg is home to Welgelegen Cherry Estate. The estate offers a beautiful setting for weddings, with cherry blossoms in spring providing a stunning backdrop. The venue can accommodate up to 250 guests and offers on-site accommodation for a convenient and memorable experience.
Lavender Hill Country Estate – Eastern Free State
Lavender Hill Country Estate is a breathtaking wedding venue situated in the Eastern Free State. With 25 hectares of perfect nature, the estate boasts exquisite gardens filled with roses and lavender, Arabian horses, exotic geese, and breathtaking views of the Maluti Mountains and Ash River. The venue offers a tranquil and romantic setting for your special day.
Oranje Guest Farm – Between Fouriesburg and Clarens
Oranje Guest Farm is a working farm nestled among the beautiful mountains of the Eastern Free State, located between Fouriesburg and Clarens. The venue offers a rustic and charming setting for weddings, with breathtaking views of the Maluti Mountains and the Rooi Mountains. The farm provides a unique and memorable experience for couples seeking a countryside celebration.
Bella Montagna – Eastern Free State
Nestled in the heart of the scenic Eastern Free State, Bella Montagna has been creating unforgettable wedding experiences since 2016. With breathtaking views, elegant facilities, and a warm, personalized touch, Bella Montagna provides the perfect backdrop for your special day. Whether you’re envisioning a rustic celebration or a sophisticated affair, Bella Montagna is where cherished memories are made.
Sandstone Sleeper Estate – Ficksburg
Sandstone Sleeper Estate is a unique venue located in Ficksburg, offering a blend of rustic charm and elegance. The estate features a beautiful chapel, spacious reception area, and on-site accommodation, making it ideal for both intimate and large weddings.
Monte Bello Estate – Bloemfontein
Monte Bello Estate is a luxurious venue situated in Bloemfontein, offering a blend of modern amenities and rustic charm. The estate features a beautiful chapel, spacious reception area, and on-site accommodation, making it perfect for couples seeking a sophisticated celebration.
Tuscan Rose – Bloemfontein
Tuscan Rose is a charming venue located in Bloemfontein, offering a romantic and intimate setting for weddings. The venue features a beautiful chapel, elegant reception area, and on-site accommodation, ensuring a memorable experience for couples and their guests.
Tips for Choosing Your Ideal Venue in the Free State
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Guest Numbers vs. Lodging: Some venues are remote or boutique and may not have many rooms – account for accommodation and how many guests need to travel.
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Weather & Season: The Free State has varied climate zones. If part of your wedding is outdoors, ensure there is backup in case of rain (especially in the Free State summer).
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Accessibility & Travel: For guests coming from Gauteng or abroad, proximity to major roads or airports can be important.
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Photography & Views: Many venues here offer spectacular natural scenery – escarpments, valleys, forests. Planning your ceremony time around light (morning, golden hour) will make a big difference.
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All-Inclusive vs. Extra Costs: Some venues include furniture, cutlery, staff, drinks. Others charge them separately. Get quotes that show everything so there are no surprises.
Featured Image: Lavender Hill Country Estate
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