Featured Archives | Page 10 of 19

In Finance

5 honeymoon money saving tips

January 19, 2026 No Comments

Planning your honeymoon should be exciting and stress free, so you’ll want to work within your budget to ensure you have an unforgettable time – without the dread of overspending. Here’re five honeymoon planning tips to help keep the wallet in check.

If you’re opting to book your honeymoon through a travel agent, do so with a reputable travel agency that specialises in honeymoons.
Airfares will play a big role in your total budget, plan ahead and try to use mileage or credit card points as payment for your airfare.
Consider registering your honeymoon with an online honeymoon registry for your bridal shower (in lieu of that unwanted bath mat).
Avoid travelling over major holidays when prices are at their premium.
Go all inclusive; pay for everything up front, you will avoid overspending.

ALSO SEE: 10 Tips for your beach wedding

10 Tips for your beach wedding

Feature image: Pexels

Adapted from honeymoonsandgetaways.com.

In Decor

DIY: Origami napkins

January 16, 2026 No Comments

The art of paper folding often associated with Japanese culture has long fascinated Westerners – and for good reason. The intricate designs that result look gorgeous and are often a talking point.

Which is why, inspired by one of the real weddings featured in Issue 1-2017, we found four easy origami napkin styles to wow your guests.

What you’ll need

• Square napkins in the colour of your choice

How to do it

For the windmill:

1 Fold all the corners into the centre of the napkin.

2 Fold the bottom of the napkin upwards to meet the middle then do the same for the top.

3 Fold the left side to the middle and repeat this on the right, ensuring both sides are equal.

4 Turn the napkin over nd pull out the corners from the inside until all four corners are exposed. Repeat for as many napkins as required.

For the heart:

1 Fold both sides into the middle, ensuring they are equal. Then fold in half lengthways.

2 Fold the top of the napkin down towards the bottom. The take the top and fold it sideways, creating a 90-degree line. Repeat on the opposite side by folding the bottom towards the top.

3 Turn the napkin over then take the top right corner and tuck it in. Repeat this on the left then turn over to see the end result. Repeat for as many napkins as required.

For the three-fold:

1 Fold the napkin in half from side to side, then fold from top to bottom to create a smaller square.

2 Using the top piece of fabric, roll the right corner into a tube. Do the same with the next two pieces of fabric on the right.

3 Turn the napkin so the tubes of fabric are horizontal then turn over the napkin and fold the right and left corners into the middle until they meet. Turn over once more to see the end result. Repeat for as many napkins as required.

For the sitting fan:

1 Fold the napkin in half then fold the bottom about 1 cm upwards.

2 Fold the same section for 1 cm towards the alternate side of the napkin. Continue folding for 1 cm on alternate sides until you have about 3 cm left.

3 Fold the napkin in half with the folded pieces horizontal. Then fold the leftover fabric into the centre and pull out all the folds into a fan. Repeat for as many napkins as required.

ALSO SEE: The wedding colour trend that quietly won us over in 2025

The wedding colour trend that quietly won us over in 2025

Text Robyn Lane
Styling Francoise Jeanne de Villiers
Photography Kendall-Leigh Nash/HMimages.co.za

In Planning

10 Tips for your beach wedding

January 15, 2026 No Comments

If it’s always been your dream to recite your vows on the shoreline of a pristine beach, South Africa offers an assortment of amazing spots for your nuptials. But because your wedding backdrop forms part of the country’s natural landscape, there are a few logistical challenges to keep in mind. Here, we help you suss out the big ones.

1 Legalities

Municipal rules say that you’ll need a permit to host a wedding (or any other event) on the beachfront, which often comes with a fee. This is a crucial expense to add to your budget and should be done as early as possible to ensure you meet all the necessary deadlines.

2 Date

Consider the time of year and season of your proposed date. While the winter months (generally May to September) can be colder, the summer months do mean beaches will be more crowded as tourists and holidaymakers flock to our shores.

3 Timing

The behaviour of the tide should be your guideline for setting a time for your ceremony. Bear in mind that even if the tide is low, strong winds will necessitate moving your ceremony indoors so ensure you have a backup plan for the day too.

4 Decor

It goes without saying that summer is the most popular beach wedding season so expect to spend some time in the outdoor heat. To prevent yourself and your guests from baking in the sun, have a few umbrellas or a gazebo installed. These can be beautifully ornamented with anything from wire hearts to ribbons to strings of shells.

5 Confetti

Being sprinkled with confetti as you take your first steps as husband and wife will undoubtedly be one of the most utopian moments of the day. Remember that when you’re at the seaside, biodegradable confetti is a must. Can’t find any that’s biodegradable? Bubbles are a cute substitute that will be enjoyed by both kids and adults.

6 Bridalwear

Yes, we know that Cinderella looked ravishing in her wedding ball gown but then again, she never got married on a beach. A lightweight dress minus the layers of tulle, along with sandals or even going barefoot, will not only be more practical for oceanside weddings, but can create a whimsical and angelic look.

7 Dress code

While you can’t completely control what your guests will wear to your wedding, you can help them avoid the worst by specifying which type of attire would be fitting. Like you, the ladies would be better off foregoing full-skirted evening dresses in favour of flowing cocktail frocks while the gents should opt for shorts suits in bright colours. The gentlemen would look dashing and be more comfy in shorts suits or chinos, instead of tuxedos, to match the relaxed vibe of your ceremony.

8 Catering

Facilities for caterers may not be in abundance near the beach, so choose menu options that can be served cold. Think oysters, salmon skewers and fresh green salads. Yum! If you like to keep things hot, consider a spitbraai or a separate venue that’s close to the beach where the ceremony will be held.

9 Booze

If you’re planning on clinking a few glasses of bubbly with your feet in the water, think again as consuming alcohol on South African beaches is forbidden. Try booking a beach venue with an indoor reception area that has sea views and where your guests can still enjoy a tipple.

10 Entertainment

The sight of glowing lanterns floating away into the dazzling night sky is utterly romantic while a fireworks display above the waters is sure to wow your guests. But as these activities do include the use of fire, they may be ruled out by certain municipalities. Be sure to check with your local authority when applying for your permit and opt for more eco-friendly entertainment options such as a band or friendly games of beach volleyball for your guests.

ALSO SEE: Wedding-worthy fashion from the Golden Globes 2026

Wedding-worthy fashion from the Golden Globes 2026

Feature image: Getúlio Moraes/Unsplash

In Honeymoons

How to pack for your honeymoon

January 14, 2026 No Comments

There’s an easy trick to organised packing and once you know it, you’ll never need to wrestle with your luggage again. Four easy words: line, lay, roll, and fold.

Line the bottom of your suitcase with shoes and tech gear in bags. Fill the center with rolled-up jeans and jackets.

Lay dresses and pants lengthwise on top of the first layer, letting the ends hang over the sides of the luggage.

Roll shirts and jerseys. Place them on top of the second layer and cover them with the ends of the dresses and pants from the layer underneath.

Fold delicates. Place toiletries and lingerie into separate bags and set it all on top.

Keep in Mind

1. Liquids should be poured into 100ml containers and stored in resealable bags.

2. Make sure you lock your luggage with a safe and reliable lock (you don’t want luggage going walk-abouts).

3. Going there you may be light on luggage, but upon return your bags will most likely be filled with honeymoon memorabilia. Check your airline’s website to see the size and weight restrictions to avoid paying a hefty penalty fee.

ALSO SEE: Keep your hair healthy on your summer honeymoon

Keep your hair healthy on your summer honeymoon

Adapted from Martha Stewart Weddings

Feature image: Pexels

In BRIDESMADES DRESSES

Wedding-worthy fashion from the Golden Globes 2026

January 13, 2026 No Comments

The Golden Globes 2026 once again proved that red carpets and wedding aisles aren’t worlds apart. From sculptural couture gowns that could effortlessly double as modern wedding dresses to sharply tailored suiting offering fresh inspiration for grooms and groomsmen alike, this year’s looks were a masterclass in ceremony-worthy style. Add in fashion-forward moments perfect for bridesmaids and wedding party outfits, and it’s clear: Hollywood’s biggest night delivered no shortage of ideas for couples planning a celebration that feels both timeless and of-the-moment.

While many of these show-stopping dresses weren’t designed in traditional bridal shades, their silhouettes, textures and detailing translate beautifully into white, ivory and soft neutral palettes , making them perfect reference points for brides, bridesmaids and wedding parties seeking fashion-forward inspiration with lasting appeal.

Oscar Isaac in The Row and Bvlgari jewlery — Photo: WWD/Gilbert Flores/2026GG/Penske Media

Photo: WWD/Tommaso Boddi/2026GG/Penske Media

Photo: WWD/Gilbert Flores/2026GG/Penske Media

Photo: WWD/Jesse Grant/2026GG/Penske Media

ALSO SEE: Looking for wedding hairstyle inspo for all hair lengths? We’ve got you covered

Looking for wedding hairstyle inspo for all hair lengths? We’ve got you covered

Featured image: Golden Globes/Instagram

In Destination

Spa retreats in South Africa for honeymoons, bachelorettes and pre-wedding escapes

January 12, 2026 No Comments

In the midst of wedding planning, pre-wedding celebrations, or the transition into married life, taking time to pause can feel both indulgent and essential. Whether you’re planning a calming escape before the big day, a romantic honeymoon, or a restorative bachelorette getaway, spa retreats offer a meaningful way to reconnect, unwind and reset together.

South Africa is home to an exceptional collection of spa retreats that lend themselves beautifully to wedding-related travel. Blending luxury with nature and indulgence with intention, these destinations range from secluded mountain hideaways to vineyard sanctuaries and refined city escapes, making them ideal for honeymoons, bachelorettes and pre-wedding escapes alike.

1. Santé Wellness Retreat & Spa – Cape Winelands

Tucked away in the serene valleys of the Cape Winelands, Santé Wellness Retreat & Spa is a sophisticated choice for couples or bridal parties seeking a structured yet luxurious wellness experience. Known for its comprehensive spa treatments and detox programmes, Santé combines tailored health assessments with holistic therapies designed to restore both body and mind.

With world-class facilities including hydrotherapy, Pilates and yoga studios, sauna and a heated indoor pool, it is well suited to couples wanting a mindful start to married life, or brides looking to arrive at the aisle feeling balanced and radiant.

2. Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve & Wellness Retreat – Cederberg

For couples or groups drawn to nature-led experiences, Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve offers a deeply immersive retreat. Set high in the Cederberg Mountains, this escape pairs luxurious spa therapies with wide-open landscapes, ancient rock art and outdoor exploration.

Riverside massages, open-air treatments and guided hikes make it a compelling option for adventurous honeymoons or intimate bachelorette retreats where nature, stillness and connection take centre stage.

3. Healing Earth Transformative Wellness – KwaZulu-Natal Midlands

Located in the rolling countryside of the Midlands Meander, Healing Earth Transformative Wellness is ideal for slower-paced celebrations or pre-wedding wind-downs. The spa’s bespoke treatments are inspired by nature and tailored to individual needs, offering everything from restorative massages to calming facial therapies.

With an outdoor yoga deck, wellness pool and tranquil spaces for relaxation, this retreat works beautifully for small bridal groups or couples seeking quiet luxury in a countryside setting.

4. Future Found Sanctuary – Cape Town

Just outside Cape Town, Future Found Sanctuary offers a regenerative wellness experience that feels both secluded and accessible. Set against the slopes of Table Mountain, the retreat is surrounded by fynbos and sweeping mountain views, creating a serene backdrop for honeymoons or pre-wedding escapes.

The spa focuses on sensory renewal, with treatments complemented by forest walks, meditation spaces and guided wellness activities. It is an excellent choice for couples wanting meaningful relaxation without straying too far from the city.

5. Babylonstoren Spa – Cape Winelands Botanical Retreat

For couples or bridal parties who appreciate refined, nature-inspired luxury, Babylonstoren is a standout destination. Set on a historic working farm, the spa draws heavily on the surrounding botanical gardens, offering herbal steam baths, botanical massages and open-air hot pools.

Between treatments, guests can explore the gardens, enjoy farm-to-table dining or simply soak in the views of vineyards and mountains, making it particularly appealing for romantic honeymoons or indulgent pre-wedding stays.

6. The Saxon Spa – Johannesburg

For those planning a city-based escape, The Saxon Spa in Johannesburg offers an elegant urban sanctuary with five-star appeal. Known for its holistic, results-driven treatments, the spa combines advanced skincare and body therapies with classic luxury.

Thermo-therapy suites, bespoke facials and tranquil gardens provide a polished yet peaceful environment, ideal for a short honeymoon stopover or a sophisticated bachelorette retreat without leaving the city.

Tips for Planning a Wedding-Focused Spa Escape

Book well in advance: Spa retreats are popular for honeymoons and group bookings, particularly at sought-after properties.
Consider group-friendly options: Some spas offer tailored packages for couples or bridal parties, including private facilities or shared treatments.
Balance indulgence with experience: Pair spa time with gentle activities such as yoga, guided walks or wine tastings to create a well-rounded stay.

ALSO SEE: Should you have a joint bachelor and bachelorette party?

Should you have a joint bachelor and bachelorette party?

Written by Zoe Erasmus for Getaway.

Feature image: Pexels

In Advice

Why personal vows are stealing the spotlight

January 9, 2026 No Comments

Growing up, I remember watching old wedding videos of my parents, uncles and aunts. Recorded on bulky video tapes that required patience and a steady hand to rewind. While fashion, cakes and decor have clearly evolved, one thing remained constant across every recording. The traditional vows.

Decades later, vows are still the emotional anchor of a wedding day. Yet how couples choose to share them has changed. While traditional wording remains popular, many modern couples are embracing personal vows.

There is something deeply romantic about that choice.

For some, speaking deeply personal words in front of a room full of people feels daunting. Private personal vows remove that pressure, allowing couples to speak honestly, emotionally and without restraint.

Personal vows can take many forms. Some couples choose to exchange them during a first look, before the ceremony begins. Others prefer to write their vows in letters, read quietly on the morning of the wedding or the day before. Choosing to keep personal vows private does not mean excluding guests from the meaning of the ceremony. Many couples still choose to exchange traditional vows in front of loved ones, allowing their commitment to be witnessed, while saving their most personal words for a moment shared only between the two of them.

This shift also reflects a broader change in how couples approach their weddings. Less about tradition for tradition’s sake, and more about intention. Personal vows, whether shared publicly or privately, become less of a performance and more of a genuine exchange.

What makes personal vows so compelling is not when or where they are shared, but the freedom they offer. There are no rules, no required wording and no audience to consider.

Whether spoken aloud, written down or quietly exchanged, personal vows remind us that at the heart of every wedding is a promise. And sometimes, the most powerful promises are the ones shared in private.

ALSO SEE: Looking for wedding hairstyle inspo for all hair lengths? We’ve got you covered

Looking for wedding hairstyle inspo for all hair lengths? We’ve got you covered

Feature image: Pexels

In Advice

The hangover kit wedding favour: Essential items to include

January 8, 2026 No Comments

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 why not help them recover?

Wedding hangover kits have become popular wedding favours in recent years. What’s great about this favour is that it’s easily DIY’ed, and couples can add whatever they want.

If you plan on making your own kit, consider adding some of these items:

– A bottle of water to prevent a dry throat

– An eye mask to reduce puffiness

– Plasters for those blisters after dancing all night long

– A granola bar for energy

– Sunglasses to hide those bloodshot eyes

– Gum or mouth wash

– A mini bottle of alcohol because… you know, hair of the dog

Feature image: Unsplash

In Beauty

Looking for wedding hairstyle inspo for all hair lengths? We’ve got you covered

January 7, 2026 No Comments

For many women, the wedding hairstyle is one of the first details to take shape once the engagement ring is on. It sets the tone for the overall bridal look, influencing everything from the dress silhouette to the veil or hair accessories that follow.

This image-led edit brings together wedding hairstyle inspiration for most hair types and lengths, with visuals designed to guide the mood rather than dictate the rules.

Short hair

Buzzcuts, bobs and everything in between prove that long hair isn’t the only option for wedding hairstyles. There are plenty of ways to work with shorter lengths to create chic, polished or playful looks.

Medium length and long hair

Medium and long hair naturally lends itself to more styling options, from effortless updos and loose waves to bedazzled or understated, natural looks.

ALSO SEE: Keep your hair healthy on your summer honeymoon

Keep your hair healthy on your summer honeymoon

Feature image: Jonathan Boba/Pexels

In Advice

How to choose the right wedding chair decorations

January 6, 2026 No Comments

When planning your wedding decor, it is easy to focus on flowers, tables and lighting while overlooking one detail that guests interact with constantly: the chairs. Wedding chair decorations are a subtle yet powerful way to tie your theme together, add texture to your venue and create visual interest from ceremony to reception.

Why wedding chair decorations matter

Chairs make up a large part of your venue’s visual landscape. Decorated chairs help:

Define the overall wedding aesthetic
Frame the aisle and ceremony focal point
Elevate standard venue furniture
Add softness and cohesion to the space
Enhance photographs from every angle

Ceremony chair decorations

Popular wedding chair decoration ideas include:

Floral posies or small arrangements tied to aisle chairs
Flowing fabric such as chiffon, voile or organza
Greenery like eucalyptus, olive branches or ivy
Simple ribbon bows for a classic and understated look

For a modern approach, decorate only the first few rows or alternate chairs to keep the look refined and uncluttered.

Reception chair decorations

Reception chair decor is usually more subtle, allowing tablescapes to take centre stage. Instead of decorating every chair, many couples focus on the bridal table or sweetheart table.

Consider:

Custom Mr and Mrs chair signs
Hanging floral installations behind the couple
Draped fabric over the backs of feature chairs
Statement chairs that stand apart from the rest

This approach keeps the space elegant while still highlighting the couple.

Chair covers, sashes or bare chairs?

One of the biggest decisions couples face is whether to cover their chairs.

Chair covers are ideal if:

The venue chairs do not suit your aesthetic
You want a uniform and polished look
Your wedding style is formal or traditional

Bare chairs work beautifully when:

The chairs are already stylish, such as ghost chairs, wood or cross back chairs
Your wedding style is modern, rustic or minimalist
You want a lighter, more relaxed feel

Sometimes the most effective wedding chair decoration is letting beautiful furniture speak for itself.

Floral and greenery chair styling trends

Trending styles include:

Single stem florals tied with silk ribbon
Asymmetrical greenery placements
Dried flowers for a textured, bohemian look
Neutral florals that complement the bouquet and table arrangements

Keeping florals consistent with the rest of your decor ensures a cohesive result.

Personalised wedding chair decorations

Personal touches make chair decor feel meaningful rather than purely decorative.

Ideas include:

Reserved signs for family members
Custom calligraphy tags
Cultural or symbolic elements
Subtle nods to your love story

These details photograph beautifully and add emotional depth to your ceremony and reception.

Practical tips before you decide

Before committing to wedding chair decorations, consider:

How many chairs will be visible in key photos
Whether decor will be reused from ceremony to reception
Setup and breakdown logistics
Your overall decor budget

Chair decor does not need to be elaborate to be effective. A few well placed details often create the strongest visual impact.

ALSO SEE: 2026 Wedding trends shaping South African celebrations

2026 Wedding trends shaping South African celebrations

Feature image: The Visionary Vows/Pexels