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    Valentine’s Day in the Cape Winelands falls at the height of summer, when harvest season brings energy to the vineyards and evenings are made for lingering over good food and wine. February is a naturally social month, and at Brookdale Estate in the Paarl Winelands, it is marked by thoughtful dining experiences and seasonal moments designed for couples.

    With food, wine and setting at its core, Brookdale Estate offers a considered way to celebrate Valentine’s Day, whether through a long lunch, an intimate dinner or a relaxed evening spent watching the sun set over the vineyards.

    Valentine’s Day dining at The Bistro

    On Friday, 14 February, The Bistro at Brookdale Estate invites couples to celebrate Valentine’s Day with its a la carte Summer Menu, available for both lunch and dinner. Guests are welcomed with a complimentary glass of Mason Road Serendipity rosé, setting the tone for a relaxed yet considered dining experience.

    For dinner, live music by Leigh Hondy adds to the atmosphere, creating a softly romantic backdrop that enhances the evening without overwhelming it. Seasonal dishes, thoughtful wine pairings and vineyard views encourage an unhurried celebration of the day.

    valentine's day

    Sunset dinners in February

    Romance at Brookdale Estate extends beyond Valentine’s Day itself with the return of the Sunset Dinner Series, running throughout February and continuing every Wednesday and Thursday evening until 26 March.

    With two sittings at 17:30 and 19:30, these evenings invite guests to linger over seasonal menus as the sun dips behind the vineyards. It is one of the Winelands’ simplest pleasures and an ideal way to enjoy summer evenings together.

    Celebrating Syrah and the harvest season

    valentine's day

    Wine remains central to the Brookdale experience, and Syrah Day on 16 February offers another reason to visit during Valentine’s month. Guests are encouraged to explore the estate’s Tasting Room, open Tuesdays to Sundays, where the 2024 Mason Road Syrah takes centre stage.

    Recently awarded four stars in the 2025 Platter’s by Diners Club South African Wine Guide, the wine reflects both elegance and structure and marks a proud achievement for the Brookdale winemaking team during harvest season.

    A milestone month at Brookdale Estate

    February also marks a celebratory milestone for The Bistro, which turns three years old on Sunday, 1 February. Guests joining for lunch are welcomed with a complimentary glass of bubbly, offered as a thank you following recent recognition as a Top 10 Destination Restaurant in the Cape by The Inside Guide and a Top 20 Restaurant in South Africa for 2025 by Dineplan.

    ALSO SEE: Locally loved flowers for your wedding bouquet

    Locally loved flowers for your wedding bouquet

    Images: Supplied

    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 one-stop wonderland for brides and grooms-to-be. The Winelands Bridal Fair 2025, hosted at the picturesque Klein Joostenberg in Stellenbosch, is returning on 6 and 7 September — promising a weekend packed with inspiration, ideas, and those magical “this is it!” wedding finds.

    An Experience Beyond Checklists

    What makes the Winelands Bridal Fair such a beloved annual tradition is its ability to mix practicality with atmosphere. It isn’t just about ticking off suppliers from your list — it’s about immersing yourself in the world of weddings. Over 60 premium exhibitors will be under one roof, covering everything from floral design and bridal gowns to photography, venues, and beauty.

    Couples can also expect live music, a relaxed restaurant area for a breather, and the thrill of the “Win-4-Your-Wedding” lucky draws, which always bring excitement to the day. With multiple bridal fashion showcases, visitors get a front-row seat to the latest dress trends, straight from South African designers.

    A Winelands Setting That Adds Romance

    The choice of Klein Joostenberg as the host venue is no coincidence. Located just outside Stellenbosch, this wine estate brings all the rustic charm and vineyard romance you’d expect from the Cape Winelands. The indoor setup means the event goes ahead rain or shine, while the lush surroundings offer a serene backdrop for couples already dreaming of vineyard weddings.

    Local couples often use the fair as both a planning tool and a day out with family or friends. “We went last year and found our photographer and venue in one go,” shared a Cape Town bride on Instagram. Others love the chance to meet vendors face-to-face — a rarity in today’s online-driven world.

    Practical Details

    • Dates: 6 & 7 September 2025

    • Times: 09h00 – 15h30

    • Venue: Klein Joostenberg, R304 Muldersvlei, Stellenbosch

    • Tickets: R100 per person, available at the door or on Webtickets (valid for one day only)

    • Parking: Free full-day parking

    Why You Shouldn’t Miss It

    Whether you’re freshly engaged or just need those final touches before the big day, the Winelands Bridal Fair is designed to make planning less stressful and more celebratory. It’s not only a chance to find your dream dress or connect with top wedding professionals, but also to spend quality time in the heart of the Winelands, soaking up inspiration.

    Think of it as your wedding Pinterest board come to life — with wine, live music, and all the experts at your fingertips.

    Facebook: @winelandsbridalfair
    Instagram: @winelands_bridalfair
    Email: [email protected]
    Website:
     donatoevents.co.za

    You’re looking for the perfect spot to pop the question (or you keep imagining the magical place that will serve as your proposal setting, soon to be hinted at when you spontaneously take your partner there).

    However, with so many options in places like Cape Town, picking one place can be overwhelming for the best of us.

    Before we drop the deets on 6 special spots to ‘pop the question’ in Cape Town, it’s worth noting a few disclaimers.

    1. No matter where you choose, even if it’s the comfort of your own garden, it will still be a special moment. The place doesn’t define the importance of asking someone to spend their life with you, the person does!

    2. Too much pressure on getting everything perfect can take away from your own enjoyment of the moment, or your partners.

    3. Some of the most magical and tear-jerking proposals have happened in the most obscure places, or the ones that are personal to your relationship. If your partner is sentimental, then proposing at their favourite sunset spot, the place you went on your first date, or somewhere where you both remember laughing for hours can mean far more than a place boasting grandeur or tantalising views.

    Now, for those who are all about scenery, and places that are known for their romantic spins, here are some top picks in the Mother City:

    1.The Rock sunset spot

    Known for its incredible views, The Rock sunset spot marries intimacy and Cape sunsets are their finest, an incredible spot to share with the person to whom you’d give the whole sunset eternally if you could. The Rock is a perfect ‘pop the question spot’ that applies to any kind of lover, but fits best for the one who always ensures that watching the sunset together is on the cards.

    @ponaek
    • Where:405 Ocean View Drive, Bantry Bay

    2. Kirstenbosch National

    Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens homes everything a nature lover could hope to experience in one epic garden. Not many people can say they made the special decision to be together forever and always at a new 7th Wonder of The World, but you can. The Boomslang Walkway is one of the most sought after spots in the Gardens, hosting breathtaking views and an explorer’s thrill. To add an even more romantic spin, have a picnic with Fynkos and enjoy nature’s bounty as rolling lawns and flowers surround you. For someone who loves mother Earth almost as much as they love you, Kirstenbosch will certainly serve as that fairytale backdrop.

    @kirstenbosch_nbg
    • Where:Rhodes drive, Newlands

    3. The Paris of Cape Town – Franschoek

    @babylonstoren

    Franschhoek is renowned for its romantic energy, challenging the Parisians on their notions of love being in the air. A trip to Franschoek means divine food, lots of wine and even perfume-making – all leading up to the big ask. For a classic proposal, try Le Petite La Colombe, which is not only one of the top restaurants in the world but a Wineland’s favourite for proposals. If your partner is all about grandeur and would sell a kidney to live in France, then this spot fits the bill. If you’re looking for something a little different, Babylonstoren boasts spoils of romantic magic, from the greenhouse to a gorgeous canoe trip – arguably one of the most romantic spots.

    @laurandnicolas
    • Where: Le Petit Colombe | Leeu Estates, Dassenberg Rd, Franschhoek
    • Babylonstoren | Klapmuts – Simondium Rd, Simondium

    4.At the top of the Cape Wheel

    @docshotsdo.shane

    They make you feel like you’re on top of the world, so why not capitalise on it romantically? The Waterfront’s famous Cape Wheel offers picnic options where you can add some champagne and truly cheers to a beautiful future amongst the stars. If your relationship has always felt like a film plot, then entering the next chapter this way will certainly be Nicholas Sparks approved.

    • Where: Dock Rd, V&A Waterfront

    5.Norval Art Foundation

    @norvalfoundation

    Art is tangible and visible emotion. Norval Art Foundation is easily one of the most aesthetic places to propose, and for the art lover in your relationship, it’s a perfect painting. Who wouldn’t want to make such a special decision surrounded by art as your audience? Norval Art Foundation hosts so many curious spots to share the most romantic moments of your life, with new exhibitions constantly in the works, ready to build your audience.

    • Where:4 Steenberg Rd, Tokai

    6. Table Mountain, of course

    @tablemountainca

    This list wouldn’t be complete without vouching for a seat at the finest table in Cape Town. Whether you decide to take a hike along Table Mountain National Park’s trails, ride the cableway all the way to the top or go to the new TAP bar (an addition part of the Aerial Cable Way’s delicious ‘above the world’s experiences) you simply can’t go wrong with the gem of our city.

    @tablemountainca
    • Where: Table Mountain National Park

    Picture: @gracecharlottephoto

    Searching for one of the best wedding destinations in the world? You may not need to travel far and wide if you’re South African, as Cape Town as recently been crowned the second-best wedding destination in the world for 2022!

    The  Iconic jewellery brand Daniel Cristopher announced the ranking, news that comes after Cape Town was named third “Greatest City on Earth” by the UK’s Telegraph this week.

    The brand, operating since 1960, compiled a list of places and made the final judgement based on a number of factors, including weather conditions, the price of luxury hotels, and LGBTQ+ friendliness.

    Maybe all the love in the Cape air blew us into right into the second spot, but we’re still tickled pink to be right up there with some of the most spectacular destinations.

    Here are the Top 10 wedding destinations listed:

    1. Mexico City

    Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico. Picture: Pexels

    2. Cape Town

    Cape winelands. Picture: Pexels

    3. Cancun

    Cancún, México. Picture: Pexels

    4. Playa Del Carmen

    Playa Del Carmen, Mexico. Picture: www.mexicancaribbean.travel

    5. Sydney

    Sydney, Australia. Picture: Pexels

    6. Barcelona

    Barcelona, Spain. Picture: Pexels

    7. Lisbon

    Lisbon, Portugal. Picture: Pexels

    8. Rio de Janeiro

    Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Picture: Pexels

    9. Buenos Aires

    Buenos Aires, Argentina. Picture: Pexels

    10. Madrid

    Madrid, Spain. Picture: Pexels

    Picture: @gavincaseyweddings / Wedding Photographer / Cape Town

    Get beauty cosmetics at new Red Dot cosmetic shop in Cape Town

    Red Dot Cosmetics aims to sell affordable and quality cosmetic products to consumers in South Africa – for facehandsaccessories or any skin & body part.

    The name ‘Red Dot’ originated from sale prices which are displayed in a red circle, coining the phrase that customers can now get their favorite beauty products at decent prices.

    The online store assures to deliver quality products and informative content about health and beauty. Shop items from the comfort of your own home on Red dot’s 100% secured e-commerce platform.  Operating times are Monday-Friday from 9h00-18h00. For online assistance or desperate queries please email [email protected].

    Makeup online: Our list of beauty cosmetics

    Lipstick, blush, eye shadow, highlighters, brushes, mascara, setting spray, lip liner, eye pencil, nails, treatment and more.

    Contact information:

    Website: https://www.reddotcosmetics.co.za

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/reddotcosmetics/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reddotcosmetics/

    Visit Red Dot products to find out more about this online makeup store.

    Everyone loves a good proposal story! This might be even more true when it’s a celebrity proposal. When it comes to the stars, we just can’t get enough. Here are some of our favourite celebrity proposal stories.

    – George Clooney and Amal Alamuddin 

    https://www.instagram.com/p/Bu6CdPdgBx_/

    On April 28, 2014, long-term bachelor George Clooney asked human rights lawyer Amal Alamuddin to marry him after six months of dating. He popped the question in their home after she returned from a trip to London.

    Clooney had prepared dinner, but Alamuddin suggested they not dress up or do anything fancy since she was exhausted from her travels. Clooney then put on a playlist of love songs and waited for the song “Why shouldn’t I?” to play.

    He then wanted to light some candles and asked Alamuddin to find a lighter. During her search, she happened to find the ring. First, she thought it was a ring that a guest had left behind, then she realised what was really happening.

    Clooney said to Ellen DeGeneres on her day-time talk show, “I got down on my knee and said, ‘I couldn’t imagine spending the rest of my life without you.’ And she kept looking at the ring, and she was looking at me, and she was like, ‘Oh, my God.’ ”

    Apparently Clooney spent roughly 25 minutes on his knee waiting for his soon-to-be wife to respond, because she was so shocked.

    – Gabrielle Union and Dwayne Wade 

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B7gljXeHGvb/

    Union and Wade first met in 2007. The couple went through many ups and downs and even split us briefly before their love brought them back together. In December 2013, Wade proposed with the help of his three sons.

    The boys held up a sign with the words “will you marry us?” on it. There was no way she could say no!

    – David Burtka and Neil Patrick Harris

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B2Fna68BduL/

    This one is extra special because they both proposed! When Burtka proposed, the pair were on their way to an event. He had the limousine stop on the street corner where they first met. Haris told Out Magazine that he didn’t understand why Burtka wanted to stop so badly. “I thought he wanted to get some booze or something”, he said.

    Eventually, Burtka proposed and Harris said yes. Harris wore the ring for a year and on Valentine’s day he proposed to Burtka.

    – John Stamos & Caitlin McHugh

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BamV5xPAKJd/?utm_source=ig_embed

    To propose to his Disney-loving girlfriend, Caitlin McHugh, Full House star John Stamos made arrangements with the production company itself.

    Stamos told PEOPLE that Disney’s CEO helped him put together a movie of the most romantic moments in Disney animation. Stamos showed the film to McHugh while they were at Disneyland. The film ended with a Little Mermaid section, which prompted Stamos to “just ask the girl”.

    – Kim Kardashian and Kanye West 

    https://www.instagram.com/p/9KD1yEuSwa/?utm_source=ig_embed

    As we know, Kanye West loves to go big. For his proposal to Kim Kardashian, he booked a baseball stadium and had a 50-piece orchestra greet the couple as they arrived.

    The words “Pleeease Marry Meee!!!” lit up the jumbotron. After she said yes, Kardashians family and friends came out of hiding to congratulate the couple.

    – Samira Wiley and Lauren Morelli

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BLJay2-At9T/

    The couple met in 2012, on the set of Orange Is the New Black and in 2016, Morelli asked Wiley for her hand in marriage.

    The two were meant to leave for a weekend away, and Morelli had mentioned that she wanted to leave early but she was slow to get ready, Wiley told Out Magazine.

    Morelli requested that Wiley take a seat on the couch and she pulled out the ring. Wiley said, “Lauren has been married before, so I wanted her to tell me she was ready, [for] her to be the one to propose.”

    “I didn’t know she was as ready as she was. I was completely shocked. I was crying uncontrollably and kept backing away from her. I asked her after, ‘Who knows about this?’ And she said, ‘Oh, everyone. Your parents know.’ We didn’t tell anyone else for a few days. That was really important to us–to have some time where it was just ours”, she added.

    Image: Instagram / Kim Kardashian