A Guide for Meaningful, Memorable, and Modern Wedding Gifts
As we dive into 2025, wedding gifts are evolving beyond conventional registry items. Today’s couples prioritize meaning, sustainability, and shared experiences over generic household goods. Here’s how to gift with intention in 2025.
Practical Everyday Gifts
Couples still appreciate functional items that seamlessly fit into their daily lives. In 2025, the trend favors compact, high-quality kitchen appliances over bulky legacy items, think rice cookers, knife sets, air fryers, and cordless vacuums rather than traditional stand mixers or large cookware. These choices reflect the realities of modern living spaces and shared households.
Popular registry staples include:
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High-end knife block sets (e.g., Wüsthof)
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Compact appliances like air fryers, multifunction immersion blenders, and robot vacuums
Reddit users often cite knives and vacuums as the most useful gifts they own.
Experience-Based & Subscription Gifts
Rather than physical items, couples increasingly cherish experiential gifts, those that help them create lasting memories together.
Top ideas include:
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Cooking classes, wine-tasting tours, hot air balloon rides, culinary adventures
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Spa getaways or weekend travel experiences
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Online subscriptions: wine clubs, coffee deliveries, at-home spa kits, or escape room experiences
Why it works: More than half of 2025 couples include at least one experiential gift on their registry. These thoughtful options align with meaningful preferences and lifestyle priorities.
Personalized and Sentimental Keepsakes
Personal gifts continue to capture hearts by reflecting couples’ unique stories.
Examples:
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Custom artwork (portraits, illustrated maps of their wedding date or location)
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Engraved charcuterie or serving boards
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Soundwave art of their first dance song or vow excerpts
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Memory kits/time capsule sets where the couple can preserve notes, tokens, and mementos from their first year of marriage
These gifts transform everyday objects into emotionally meaningful treasures, keepsakes that last a lifetime.
Eco‑Friendly & Sustainable Options
Sustainability is no longer a niche, it’s central to gift choices in 2025. Couples are increasingly asking for environmentally responsible options.
Popular sustainable gift types:
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Reusable kitchenware: beeswax wraps, glass storage containers, bamboo serving trays
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Organic cotton bedding or towels
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Solar-powered or energy-efficient gadgets
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Artisan handcrafted items made from recycled or low-impact materials
Including at least one eco-friendly item on a registry is now common about 70% do so.
Wellness & Self‑Care Gifts
With wellness front-and-center in many couples’ values, gifts that foster self-care and relaxation are trending.
Examples include:
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Aromatherapy diffusers, soft throws or weighted blankets
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Yoga mats or subscription-based meditation/yoga platforms for couples
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Home massage devices or wellness kits for shared pampering moments
Smart & Tech-Savvy Home Essentials
Modern couples appreciate high-tech gifts that simplify daily routines and enhance comfort.
Top tech gift picks:
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Voice-controlled smart hubs (Echo Show, Google Nest)
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Smart lighting or home monitoring systems
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App-based coffee brewers or smart thermostats
- Robot vacuum cleaners or air purifiers
These gifts are both practical and forward-looking, ideal for newlyweds building a connected home.
Group Gifting & Big-Ticket Items
Friends or family gifts pooled together can bring luxury-level items within reach:
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Designer furniture
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A premium BBQ grill
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A vacation credit or large-scale cookware sets like Le Creuset
Group gifting via registries or platforms streamlines contributions toward big-ticket items.
Quick Overview: Top Wedding Gift Categories 2025
| Category | Examples | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Practical Daily Items | Knife sets, rice cooker, air fryer, robotic vacuum | Useful and long-lasting household staples |
| Experience & Subscription | Cooking class, spa voucher, wine delivery, dinner kits | Experience-driven couples |
| Personalized Keepsakes | Custom art, engraved boards, soundwave prints, time capsule kits | Sentimental gifts to treasure forever |
| Eco-Friendly Products | Recycled servingware, organic bedding, beeswax wraps | Conscious and sustainable gifting |
| Wellness & Relaxation | Diffusers, blankets, yoga subscriptions, massage devices | Couples prioritizing self-care |
| Smart Home & Tech Gadgets | Smart assistants, coffee systems, smart lights, robot vacuums | Tech-savvy and convenience-minded couples |
| Group Gifting Options | Furniture, luxury cookware, honeymoon credits | High-value registry items via pooling |
The best wedding gift in 2025 balances practicality, personality, sustainability, and thoughtfulness. Whether you’re choosing an experiential gift that fosters lifelong memories or a timeless heirloom-quality piece, align your choice with the couple’s values and lifestyle. From smart gadgets to artisan keepsakes or curated adventures, they’ll appreciate the intention behind it.
Featured Image: Pixels
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Love Meets Local Craft in 2025
In 2025, engagement rings are no longer just about sparkle, they’re about substance. South African couples are reimagining what it means to mark a lifelong commitment, leaning into trends that prioritise personal meaning, ethical sourcing, and support for homegrown craftsmanship. Whether it’s a minimalist solitaire or a custom creation inspired by local culture, the rings of 2025 are telling powerful stories of love, values, and identity.
Let’s explore the most exciting engagement ring trends shaping South African proposals this year.
Ethically Sourced Diamonds Take Centre Stage
Conscious luxury is on the rise. More South African couples are asking where their diamonds come from and opting for stones that are responsibly mined or lab-grown.
Ethically sourced diamonds are no longer a niche preference. Thanks to increased transparency in the industry, couples can choose rings that align with their values without sacrificing beauty. Initiatives like the Kimberley Process and brands offering full traceability have paved the way for diamonds with integrity.
Lab-grown diamonds are also gaining traction, offering identical brilliance without the environmental footprint. Add in recycled metals and eco-friendly settings, and you have a ring that sparkles in more ways than one.
Jeweler Highlight:
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Katannuta Diamonds offers fully traceable stones and custom rings crafted in Cape Town with ethical practices at heart.
Supporting Local: Jewelers with a South African Soul
There’s a new level of appreciation for South African design talent. Couples are turning away from mass-produced rings and gravitating toward local artisans who offer custom service, personal attention, and one-of-a-kind designs.
Choosing local doesn’t just support the economy, it means your ring is made with care, creativity, and often, cultural relevance. Whether it’s a family-owned atelier or a Black-woman-owned startup, South Africa’s jewelry scene is bursting with brilliance.
Top Local Jewelers to Know in 2025:
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Nungu Diamonds – A luxury, Black-owned diamond house redefining ethical elegance in Joburg.
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Bespoke by Kate – Known for colourful stones and bold shapes that make a statement.
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Charles Greig – A legacy brand offering timeless craftsmanship with a South African heart.
Top Local Engagement Ring Jewelers in South Africa in 2025
Contemporary Meets Culture, Design Styles on the Rise
The biggest design trend in 2025? Authenticity. Couples want rings that reflect their personal story, not just a Pinterest board.
Expect to see:
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Asymmetrical settings
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Coloured stones like sapphires, emeralds, and morganite
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Mixed metals think gold paired with platinum
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Rings that fuse heritage with modern aesthetics, such as engraved Zulu or Xhosa patterns.
Minimalist solitaires and bold cocktail-style rings are both popular, because the trend is about self-expression, not conformity.
Customisation Is King
Forget one-size-fits-all. In 2025, couples are co-creating their rings from scratch, often designing them together as part of the engagement journey.
Thanks to 3D printing and virtual design previews, you can see exactly what your ring will look like before it’s made. Popular personalised touches include:
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Hidden birthstones
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Engraved fingerprints or wedding dates
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GPS coordinates of where you first met or got engaged
A custom ring isn’t just about style, it’s about building a symbol of your unique love story.
Sustainability Beyond the Stone
Sustainability doesn’t stop at sourcing. In 2025, the entire experience matters, from packaging to aftercare.
More jewelers now offer:
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Eco-conscious packaging made from recycled or biodegradable materials
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Ring care kits for long-term maintenance
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Buy-back or recycling programmes, allowing you to redesign heirloom rings or upgrade sustainably
It’s all part of a bigger shift toward conscious wedding planning and it starts with the ring.
How to Choose the Perfect Engagement Ring in 2025
Here’s a quick cheat sheet:
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Start with values: Do you want a mined or lab-grown stone? Ethical sourcing? Local craftsmanship?
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Consider lifestyle: Is your partner hands-on and active? Choose durable settings and low-profile designs.
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Think beyond the sparkle: Add personal touches that tell your story.
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Support local: Visit SA jewelers for in-person consultations, or book virtual sessions to explore custom design options.
Your Love Story, Your Ring
In a world of trends, the most important thing is finding a ring that reflects you. Whether it’s a glittering diamond from a local mine, a lab-grown gem with a sustainable story, or a custom design infused with culture, 2025 is the year of meaningful luxury.
So go ahead, choose local. Choose ethical. Choose love that lasts and a ring that speaks volumes.
Featured Image: Canva
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COMPETITION RULES
To enter, participants must fill out an online form:
1. setting out their full name, phone number and email address; and
2. a short essay (maximum of 500 words) explaining why they deserve to win a wedding of their dreams.
There will be only one winner selected, and the competition will be hosted over several magazine titles, both digital and print, namely:
1. Women&Home;
2. Bona
3. Rooi Rose; and
4. Getaway.
Each participant must have a copy of the magazine, any of the above-mentioned magazine titles, “in hand” to qualify.
The competition starts on 1 October 2023, and ends on 15 December 2023. Entries received after the closing date will not be accepted nor considered.
The winner will be selected by a panel of judges based on the creativity, originality, and sincerity of their essay. The judges’ decision is final, and no correspondence will be entered into.
The winner will be notified by email and telephone call by January 2024. The winner must confirm, in writing, their acceptance of the prize within 14 days of notification or forfeit the prize.
The prize consists of a wedding package to the worth of R464 657,00 00 (Four Hundred and Sixty-Four Thousand Six Hundred and Fifty Seven Rand and Nil Cents), including venue, catering, photography, flowers, cake, dress, rings, and honeymoon. The prize is subject to availability and may vary depending on the preferences and budget of the winner.
The prize is non-transferable and non-exchangeable for cash or other goods and/or services.
The winner is responsible for any taxes, fees, and/or expenses not included in the prize.
Furthermore, the winner is responsible for obtaining any necessary travel documents, visas, insurance, or health requirements for themselves and their guests.
The winner agrees to participate in any publicity and/or promotional activities related to the competition and to allow the sponsor(s) to use their name, image(s), and/or essay for marketing purposes without further compensation.
The sponsor(s) reserves the right to modify, suspend and/or cancel the competition in the event fraud, technical failure(s), and/or any other circumstances beyond its control that affect the fairness or integrity of the competition.
Habari Media or its brands (Getaway, Rooi Rose, Women & Home and Bona) accept no responsibility for Sponsors who do not for full their contractual obligations.
By entering the competition, participants agree to abide by these terms and conditions, and to release the sponsor and its affiliates from any liability arising from or related to the competition or prize.
Employees, and immediate family members of said employees, of Highbury Media T/A Habari Media (Pty) Ltd are not eligible to enter this competition.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
This competition is open to South African residents only. Participants must be 18 (Eighteen) years or older at the time of entry.
1. Boschendal
• Our offering includes 3 (Three) Canapes per person and a 3-course meal – Total of 40 (Forty) pax to be catered.
• Gratuity on food is included based on the 3 (Three) Canapes per person and the 3-Course menu.
• Wedding to take place subject to availability between July – November 2024
• Venue is for the couple’s use from 08h00am morning of the wedding until midnight.
• Rhone Homestead venue includes the standard cutlery, crockery, glassware as well as tables and chairs for up to 40 (Forty) guests.
• Boschendal Wedding ordinary terms and conditions apply to the package.
Not included in the package of prize value:
• All beverages need to be supplied by Boschendal from our events list, this will need to be for the couple, or guests own account. No beverages are included in the prize.
• Gratuity of 10% (Ten Percent) will be applied to all beverages consumed.
• Should the couple wish to amend or add onto the menu, these additional menu costs as well as the additional 10% (Ten Percent) gratuity will be for the couple’s own account.
• No Accommodation is included in the package and is subject to availability and the couple’s own account.
• Boschendal will require a R10 000.00 (Ten Thousand Rand and Nil Cents) refundable breakage deposit to be paid by the couple when the winner is announced. This will be refunded to the couple post the wedding less any damages or breakages should any occur.
• Any additional costs that could affect the invoice need to be paid upfront by the couple in full, at least 21 (Twenty-One) days prior to arrival.
• The venue is inclusive until midnight, should they wish to extend until 02h00, then additional venue hire and overtime fee’s off staff will apply.
• Should they increase more than 40 (Forty) pax then additional costs will be for the couples account.
• The venue is a 40 (Forty) seater, should they increase pax then the maximum is 80 (Eighty) guests and a weather back up would be for their own account.
2. Murdocks
• Original 18K yellow gold ring, sizing is to the discretion of the winner, but the value of the rings exceeding the package offered by the sponsor will be for the winner’s own account.
3. Honeymoon by Jock Safari Lodge- Valid until Nov 2024
• The voucher is not transferrable and cannot be converted to cash.
• Accommodation is subject to availability.
• Extra costs not mentioned are excluded, which include: SANParks conservation levy, transfers, discretional gratuities, premium alcoholic beverages, telephone, laundry, spa and curios are for the winner’s own account.
4. Blanco Bridal Couture
• 1x Rental wedding dress for the bride (the winner of the competition)
• Selection of dresses that is available for winner will be provided once the winner visits Blanco to come and select her wedding dress.
• Dress sizes range from size 8-14
• Dress alterations needs to be done at Blanco Bridal Couture – 48 Vredehoek Ave, Cape Town
• Dress will be collected two days prior to the brides wedding and needs to be returned two days after the brides confirmed wedding date.
• Alterations will be done 4-6 weeks before bride’s wedding.
• Prize is valid until November 2024.
• Rental dress cannot be exchanged for cash or transferred to anyone else.
5. Zorgvliet Wine Estate
• Sponsors ordinary terms and conditions apply and is subject to availability.
• Valid until November 2024.
6. Weddings By Marius
• Marius will be working with winning couple to coordinate and liaise with vendors, find additional suppliers if necessary and overseeing the execution of wedding plans leading up to the day.
7. Summerheart Photography
• Subject to availability valid until November 2024
8. Classic Rides
• Valid until 2024
• Please note the 2 cars that are for the prize are the 1956 Rover and the 1938 MG Tickford.
9. Invites and Place Settings
• Cards by Nadia Valid until November 2024
10. Amy Cottles Events
• Bouquet, Corsage and buttonholes for wedding party. Valid until November 2024
A wedding day is a time for celebration. Chances are, however, some might celebrate a bit too hard. Wedding hangovers can be pretty harsh for your guests, so…
You will most likely be stressing about numerous things before your wedding – your skin doesn’t have to be one of them. Here is what not to do to your skin before the big day.
1. Spend too much time in the sun
Don’t try to get the tan of your life right before your big day. You could get burnt and you and your skin will be dehydrated, and it will show. On that note, stay away from tanning beds as well; they can just as much – if not more – damage your skin.
Take a look in the mirror and think about whether you actually need a tan. If you do, rather try a subtle self-tanning product for a few weeks leading up to the big day. Start toning it down a week before.
And remember to wear sunscreen every single day, even on your wedding day, to ensure you stay sun safe.
2. Pick at blemishes
This doesn’t only apply to your pre-wedding preparations but it’s great advice for every time you are tempted to pick. Picking, squeezing or scratching a spot on your face will cause scarring. We know it’s incredibly hard not to pop that pimple as soon as it arises, but it’s important to leave it alone. The bacteria underneath your nails can penetrate this vulnerable area, causing swelling and redness.
Instead, apply a spot treatment that contains benzoyl peroxide (not toothpaste!) to the area twice a day after cleansing, and try to leave it alone.
If you are struggling with a painful, cystic spot right before the big day, visit your dermatologist and have a cortisone shot in the affected area. This will help considerably more than any topical treatment.
3. Change your routine
Every bride wants her skin to be perfect. Stick to what you know works for you and don’t try to switch up your routine a month before. Your skin WILL freak out.
A few months before your wedding, introduce your skin to a brightening treatment (containing malic acid or vitamin C) paired with a moisturiser that contains hyaluronic acid. Cell turnover takes approximately 30 days, so any new treatment you use will only begin to show its effects after a month.
Pro tip: Don’t use an acne treatment if you do not have problem skin as a preventative measure. It will only dry out your skin and you won’t glow as much when you say ‘I do.’
4. Get a peel too soon before your wedding day
Getting a harsh chemical peel a few days before your wedding won’t be beneficial in the least. A peel of any kind requires some downtime, and your skin needs to chill out for a week or more.
A peel literally removes a layer of skin, cleansing deep down into your pores, and revealing smooth and glowing skin. It helps in the disappearance of ance, scars, wrinkles and a rough texture, but it will not give you perfect skin overnight.
Try a peel way in advance to see how it works for you, and then go for another (more gentle, if necessary) session at least two months before your wedding. They are one of the greatest things you can do for perfect wedding skin, but always be sure to chat to your therapist to make sure your timing and choice of treatment is spot on.
5. Get too stressed out
Don’t forget to make time for yourself, meditate and breathe. All the stress of planning and making sure every detail is perfect will take a massive toll on your skin. Try listening to soothing music before bed, take a long bath, and breathe long and deep breaths to calm down your nervous system. And remember to hydrate!