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For couples in South Africa, the question isn’t just about when to get married anymore, but how. The growing popularity of elopements has shifted what many of us think of as “the big day.” Once seen as secretive runaways and running away from your family, elopements now stand proudly as intimate, intentional celebrations. But how do they really stack up against the traditional, large-scale wedding so many still dream of?
Let’s unpack the pros and cons of each, and why more South African couples are rethinking what it means to say “I do”.
The Rise of Elopements in South Africa
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Elopements are no longer whispered scandals. Instead, they’re celebrated as deeply personal moments where the focus is squarely on the couple. With our country’s dramatic backdrops—from the cliffs of the Wild Coast to the winelands of Stellenbosch—it’s no surprise that many pairs are trading in banquet halls for breathtaking landscapes.
Pros of Eloping:
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Less stress and shorter timelines
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Often more affordable, especially if combined with a honeymoon
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Intimate and personal—just you, your partner, and maybe a handful of loved ones
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Destination-ready: from Cape Town beaches to Drakensberg peaks
Cons of Eloping:
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Limited guest list (if any)
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Potential disappointment from family and friends
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Missing out on classic wedding traditions like speeches and first dances
Social media has amplified this trend, with couples proudly sharing photos of mountaintop vows and barefoot ceremonies on Instagram. Far from feeling like they’ve missed out, many say the privacy made the day even more meaningful.
The Case for the Big Wedding
For many South African families, a wedding isn’t just about two people—it’s about community, tradition, and celebration. Large weddings are cultural milestones, where relatives travel from across provinces and sometimes countries to witness a union.
Even though these weddings can be costly, they carry weight and symbolism that smaller ceremonies can’t always replicate. Walking down the aisle in front of everyone you love, having speeches from family elders, and enjoying that packed dance floor at the reception—it’s all part of the magic.
Pros of a Full Wedding:
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Share the joy with family and friends
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All the traditional rituals: confetti, toasts, and father-daughter dances
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Feels like a once-in-a-lifetime celebration
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Easier to involve extended family in cultural traditions
Cons of a Full Wedding:
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Costs can quickly spiral
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Planning is stressful and time-consuming
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Destination weddings add even more expense
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Some couples find being the center of attention overwhelming
That said, with careful budgeting and the right planner, and the support from family and friends, a big wedding doesn’t have to mean financial strain.
Finding the Balance
So, elopement vs wedding—which one wins? The truth is, there’s no universal answer. For some, eloping is the dream: raw, unfiltered, and intimate. For others, the joy of seeing their loved ones gathered in one place outweighs the stress and expense.
A growing number of couples are blending both approaches: a private elopement in a scenic spot, followed by a relaxed reception with friends and family later. It’s proof that you don’t have to choose between intimacy and tradition—you can craft something unique.
Do What’s Best for You
At the end of the day, whether you stand barefoot on a beach with just two witnesses, or enter a grand hall filled with 200 guests, your wedding should reflect your love story. Ignore outside pressure, silence the comparisons, and choose what feels authentic to you as a couple.
Because whether whispered on a mountain or shouted from a ballroom stage, “I do” is about more than the setting—it’s about the journey that follows.
Planning a wedding in South Africa? One of the most memorable aspects of your celebration will undoubtedly be the food. A well-curated menu not only satisfies the palate…
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Your honeymoon isn’t just a holiday. It’s the first chapter of your new shared story. While Paris has its romance and Bali its beaches, Africa offers something far rarer: wild landscapes, ancient history, and the kind of soul-stirring beauty that will stay with you for a lifetime.
So don’t be too quick to overlook Africa, as there are some real gems. From candlelit safaris to starlit desert camps, here are 12 Africa honeymoon destinations that blend luxury, culture, and adventure.
1. Tanzania: Safari Meets Zanzibar Bliss
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Tanzania is special, because if you can’t decide between a safari honeymoon and beach one, then you don’t have to. You can have them both.
Tanzania is safari royalty. Picture yourself on the Serengeti, watching wildebeest thunder across golden plains, before retreating to an intimate tented lodge. Days later, you’re barefoot on Zanzibar’s beaches, sipping cocktails as the sun melts into the Indian Ocean.
Why it’s unforgettable: A Tanzania honeymoon means both bush and beach in one trip. From starry bush dinners to private island escapes, it’s the best of two worlds.
When to visit: If you’re opting for a safari holiday first, it’s best to go in the dry season which is between June and October. You can visit Zanzibar pretty much anytime of the year.
2. Namibia: Desert Romance Under the Stars
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Namibia is a raw, otherworldly beauty. Climb the towering red dunes of Sossusvlei, drift over the desert in a hot-air balloon, or spend the night in a star-bed with nothing but the Milky Way for company. In Etosha, wildlife thrives in stark landscapes, while the Skeleton Coast feels like the edge of the world.
Local flavour: Namibians often joke that their country has more sand than people — perfect for couples seeking silence and privacy.
When to visit: The best time to visit Namibia is during the dry season, which is from May to October. There’s minimal rainfall and temperatures are quite moderate as well.
3. Seychelles: Barefoot Royalty
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The Seychelles is where honeymoon fantasies become reality. Think villas with infinity pools, deserted beaches, and coral reefs made for snorkelling. It’s no surprise this is where royalty and A-listers escape for privacy.
When to go: April, May, October, and November offer the clearest waters for diving and snorkelling.
4. Zambia: The Smoke That Thunders
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At Victoria Falls, the Zambezi River plunges with such force that locals named it Mosi-oa-Tunya — “the Smoke that Thunders.” Couples can take helicopter flights over the spray, toast with sundowners on a Zambezi cruise, or swim together in Devil’s Pool right on the edge of the falls.
When to visit: May to October is the best time to visit Zambia as it is the dry season. But it’s important to note that from June to October it’s the peak season in Zambia, which means prices are likely to sky rocket.
5. Botswana: Wild and Intimate
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Botswana is the definition of luxury in the wild. The Okavango Delta’s waterways are perfect for gliding in a mokoro canoe while elephants splash nearby. Many lodges offer just a few suites, giving you total seclusion. Nights in open-air sky beds let you drift to sleep under the Milky Way.
Why go: Botswana sees fewer tourists than some of it’s southern African neighbours which means if you’re looking to enjoy a safari holiday with fewer crowds, then this is the place. Expect unrivalled wildlife, and a safari experience that feels like it’s just for you.
6. Mozambique: Castaway Romance
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Mozambique is often overlooked as a beach resort in comparison to the likes of Zanzibar. Mozambique’s Quirimbas Archipelago is a hidden gem. With villas scattered across private islands, it feels like you’ve discovered a secret world. Expect dhow cruises at sunset, barefoot dinners in the sand, and waters so warm you’ll spend hours snorkelling or diving.
The further north up you go, the more special it gets. Inhambane, Vilanculos, and Bazaruto Island boast some of the clearest turquoise waters that are perfect for swimming with dolphins, snorkelling and surfing.
Cultural touch: On Ibo Island, stroll cobbled streets and discover Portuguese-era forts — history woven into paradise.
When to go: May to November sees cooler temperatures, and is also the dry season.
7. South Africa: A World in One Country
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South Africa is the honeymooner’s dream buffet. Start in Cape Town with its beaches, Table Mountain views, and fine dining. Add wine tasting in Franschhoek, then head to Kruger’s private reserves for a Big 5 safari. For extra magic, try a night in a luxury treehouse listening to the bush at night.
While Cape Town and the Kruger are no doubt show stoppers, don’t overlook South Africa’s icon Garden Route. This lush green area, boasts quaint towns, magical forests, and wild scenic coastlines with tons of exciting activities. The wild coast also has plenty to offer, so combine your tip to the garden route with the wild coast for an off the beaten path South African adventure.
Value factor: With world-class infrastructure and competitive pricing, South Africa delivers big honeymoon experiences without blowing the budget.
When to visit: You can visit South Africa pretty much any time of the year, but just note that from November to February, it’s peak season.
8. Zimbabwe: Falls and Safari in One Trip
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On Zimbabwe’s side of Victoria Falls, the views are arguably the most dramatic. Pair that with romantic riverside lodges and easy access to Hwange National Park for superb game drives, and you’ve got a honeymoon that balances natural wonder with safari adventure.
9. Kenya: Safari Tradition and Beach Bliss
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Kenya’s Masai Mara is safari at its most iconic: vast golden plains, acacia trees, and lions lounging in the shade. Visit during the Great Migration for a front-row seat to nature’s greatest show. Afterwards, relax on Kenya’s Indian Ocean coast — Diani Beach is a honeymoon hotspot with turquoise seas and laid-back charm.
Social buzz: Safari jeeps, giraffes at sunset, and Maasai beadwork make Kenya one of the most photogenic honeymoon backdrops.
When to visit: The best time to visit Kenya for a safari is during the dry seasons, from June to October or January to March.
10. Mauritius: Colourful and Romantic
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Mauritius is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines, surrounded by coral reefs and golden beaches. Expect couples’ spa treatments, private catamaran cruises, and Creole flavours on your plate. Many resorts are all-inclusive, letting you relax without a care.
Local secret: Don’t miss Chamarel, where the earth forms surreal rainbow-coloured dunes — a natural wonder as vibrant as your new marriage.
When to visit: The best time to visit Mauritius is from May to December, during the dry and cooler winter season, offering pleasant temperatures, low humidity, and minimal rain. But, for fewer crowds and lower prices, consider the shoulder months of May and September.
11. Egypt: Timeless Love Stories
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For couples drawn to history, Egypt is a honeymoon like no other. Imagine floating along the Nile on a luxury cruise, exploring ancient temples by day, then dining on the deck under desert stars. In Cairo, marvel at the Pyramids of Giza before heading to the Red Sea for crystal-clear diving and private beach resorts.
Cultural note: Ancient Egyptians believed love was eternal — perhaps why so many couples choose Egypt to begin their forever.
When to visit: The best time to visit Egypt is from October to April if you’re looking for comfortable temperatures for sightseeing. September to November and March to April are great shoulder months for fewer crowds and good weather.
12. Morocco: Romance in the Souks and Sands
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Morocco is a feast for the senses. Wander hand-in-hand through Marrakech’s vibrant souks, stay in a riad with rose-petal baths, and then escape to the Sahara Desert for a night in a luxury tent camp beneath the stars. On the coast, Essaouira offers breezy beaches and bohemian charm.
Why couples love it: Morocco combines culture, adventure, and intimacy. Social media is full of honeymooners on camel rides, their silhouettes framed against golden dunes at sunset.
When to visit: The best time to visit Morocco is during the shoulder seasons of spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). You’ll get pleasant, warm weather ideal for exploring cities, hiking, and visiting the desert
Where Will You Go?
An Africa honeymoon is more than a holiday. It’s a love story written across landscapes — from Morocco’s souks to Namibia’s dunes, from Zanzibar’s beaches to Egypt’s temples. Whether you’re chasing wildlife, culture, or barefoot luxury, these 12 destinations prove that Africa isn’t just a backdrop for romance. It’s the main character.
The Northern Cape, South Africa’s largest province, offers a diverse array of breathtaking wedding venues that cater to every couple’s dream. From the arid beauty of the Kalahari…
Featured Image Source: Temi Otedola on X
When Afrobeats meets high fashion, the result is nothing short of spectacular. That’s exactly what fans witnessed as Nigerian music superstar Mr Eazi and actress-fashionista Temi Otedola tied the knot in not one, but three jaw-dropping celebrations across Monaco, Dubai, and Iceland.
Love Across Borders
Source: Temi Otedola on Instagram
The couple, who have been together for eight years, didn’t just plan a wedding — they curated a global love story. Starting in Monaco on May 9, the pair honoured a deeply personal date: the birthday of Eazi’s late mother. Their private court wedding saw Temi in a whimsical Wiederhoeft corset-and-skirt ensemble embroidered with delicate florals, while Eazi opted for a sleek grey Louis Vuitton suit.
Later that day, they switched gears into glamorous eveningwear — Temi in a bold black-and-white polka-dot Christopher John Rogers dress and Eazi in a sharp black suit, effortlessly embodying “couple goals.”
Source: Temi Otedola on Instagram
A Traditional Celebration with Heritage at the Heart
Source: Temi Otedola on X
Their second ceremony, held on July 5 in Dubai, was a traditional Nigerian affair hosted at the Otedola family home. Guests described it as a day of “pure joy and thanksgiving.” Temi stunned in multiple custom-made outfits, including an unforgettable bow-detailed gown, while also paying tribute to her husband’s late mother with an attire inspired by Nigerian heritage.
The Fairytale Finale in Iceland
Source: Temi Otedola on X
The third and final chapter unfolded in Iceland, where the couple exchanged vows in a cinematic ceremony that caught the eye of Vogue’s September issue. Temi channelled Audrey Hepburn in a Fendi Haute Couture gown, while Mr Eazi embodied timeless sophistication in a Yves Saint Laurent tuxedo. Her understated Instagram caption — “Mr and Mrs Ajibade” — summed it all up.
Social Media Buzz and Global Spotlight
From Instagram carousels to TikTok edits, fans couldn’t get enough of the opulence. Temi’s posts drew millions of likes, with many Nigerians dubbing it the “royal wedding of Afrobeats.” On X , one user wrote: “Three countries, three weddings, one love story. This is history in the making.”
The wedding also highlighted the growing cultural crossover between Afrobeats and global fashion. Featuring in Vogue placed the celebration firmly on the international stage, underlining how African stars are redefining luxury weddings worldwide.
Why This Wedding Matters
Beyond the glamour, this was also a deeply symbolic union of music, fashion, and heritage. It reflected how today’s African creatives are not only influencing culture locally but also reshaping global conversations about love, luxury, and representation.
For many, Mr Eazi and Temi Otedola’s wedding wasn’t just about vows — it was about vision. A vision that showed African love stories can be celebrated on the grandest scale, with the world watching in admiration.
Featured Image: Whimsical Bridal, An Exhibitor at the Winelands Bridal Fair 2025 Planning a wedding can feel overwhelming, but in early September the Cape Winelands transforms into a…
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There’s a moment every bride-to-be has—standing in front of the mirror with her dress hanging nearby, thinking, “Am I ready?” It’s not just about how the dress fits, but how you feel in it. Energy, confidence, calm… these are the things you’ll actually carry with you down the aisle. And the right wedding workout plan can help you find all three.
Forget crash diets and punishing bootcamps. Fitness and nutrition experts agree: the best bridal workout is a gradual, joyful routine that builds strength, resilience, and yes, a radiant glow that even your photographer can’t filter out.
Why Fitness is Part of the Wedding Story
In South Africa, weddings are not just about two people—they’re about families, traditions, and celebrations that can last days. Between lobola ceremonies, cultural dances, and guest lists that often top hundreds, a wedding can feel like a marathon. That’s why stamina and stress management matter just as much as toned arms.
Holistic nutritionist Sally Pansing Kravich warns brides against what she calls “dress panic”—the last-minute crash diet or overtraining that leaves women exhausted on their big day. Instead, she says, “Start ahead of time with healthy routines that give you energy and make you feel fabulous inside and out.”
It’s advice that resonates with brides on social media too. On TikTok, videos tagged #BridalWorkout have racked up millions of views, with brides sharing everything from 10-minute “wedding abs” routines to full-year fitness journeys. The common thread? Confidence, not punishment.
The 12-Month Wedding Workout Timeline
12 Months Out: Build a Foundation
You’ve said yes, now it’s time to start slowly. Begin with walks, light yoga, or beginner pilates. Think of this as warming up for the marathon of wedding planning. Even extending dog walks or adding stretches before bed counts.
Why it works: You’ll avoid injuries and set the tone for a consistent routine. Yoga, in particular, helps calm the mind—a big win when you’re balancing venue deposits and family expectations.
9 Months Out: Explore and Experiment
This is your “dating” phase with fitness. Try spin classes, barre, dance cardio, running clubs, or strength training. Figure out what makes you excited to move.
Local angle: In Joburg and Cape Town, boutique fitness studios are trending, with brides-to-be signing up for reformer pilates or group HIIT sessions. The vibe? Less punishment, more community.
Pro tip: If you’re the type who dreads gyms, create a Spotify wedding playlist and dance it out at home. Movement doesn’t have to feel like a chore.
6 Months Out: Commit to a Routine
This is where the plan gets serious. Block out one-hour sessions three to five times a week, mixing cardio (HIIT, spin, dance cardio) with strength (squats, resistance bands, light weights).
Nutrition: Start cutting back on sugar, sodas, and processed carbs. Swap in greens, water, and supplements like B vitamins and probiotics to boost skin and energy.
The core focus: Pilates expert Kimberley Carruthers swears by “The Pilates Five”—a set of moves designed to sculpt the waistline while strengthening posture.
5 Months Out: Focus on Arms and Shoulders
Most wedding dresses highlight the upper body, which means arms, shoulders, and posture matter. Use light weights (2–3kg) and slow, controlled moves to tone without bulking.
Social buzz: Instagram reels featuring “5-minute bridal arm workouts” are a huge hit, showing that small, consistent effort adds up.
Pair this with facials, dry brushing, and green juices three times a week. These small rituals double as stress relief and self-care.
2 Months Out: Keep It Fun, Fight the Stress
By now, stress is peaking—guest RSVPs, final fittings, and family politics. This is the time to keep workouts playful. Cardio dance classes are perfect: they torch calories and flood your system with endorphins.
Nutrition: Cut back on alcohol and processed foods. Add antioxidant-rich juices and liver-cleansing herbs (think turmeric, beetroot, and milk thistle) to keep your skin glowing.
Wellness boost: Book a massage or spa day with your bridal party. It’s not indulgent—it’s stress management.
1 Month Out: Switch It Up, But Don’t Overdo It
You’re almost there. Continue four to five workouts per week, but vary your approach with stress-busting sessions like tai chi or kickboxing. The goal now is maintaining strength and calm, not pushing harder.
Diet-wise, Kravich suggests tailoring food to your needs: salmon and eggs for brainpower, red meat for stamina, and plant-based meals for digestion.
1 Week Out: Rest, Restore, Recharge
Your body has done the work. This is the week to scale back intensity. Swap HIIT for yoga or stretching. Add calcium-rich foods like leafy greens or salmon to support better sleep.
Remember: rest is as important as exercise. As one TikTok bride put it, “No one’s zooming in on your waistline, but they’ll see the joy in your face if you’re well-rested.”
Wedding Day: Keep It Light, Keep It Joyful
The big day is here. If nerves hit, a 10-minute dance cardio or jog can release tension. Breakfast should be energising but light—avocado toast, green juice, and fruit.
The truth? No workout or diet matters more than the fact that you’ve shown up, glowing with confidence.
Beyond the Wedding: A Lifestyle, Not a Deadline
The healthiest brides aren’t chasing perfection—they’re building habits that last long after the honeymoon. Whether it’s keeping up with dance cardio, sipping green juices, or carving out weekly “me time” for pilates, these routines carry into newlywed life.
And perhaps that’s the most romantic part of all: starting your marriage not just looking your best, but feeling strong, happy, and ready for whatever’s next.