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    In Destination

    An award-winning honeymoon destination portfolio earns prestigious Forbes recognition

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    For couples planning a once-in-a-lifetime honeymoon or destination wedding escape, award-winning luxury can make all the difference. Global hospitality group The Lux Collective has once again reaffirmed its reputation for exceptional travel experiences, with four of its flagship LUX* properties receiving coveted Five-Star ratings from Forbes Travel Guide in the 2026 awards.

    honeymoon destination
    Grand Baie

    The prestigious honours were awarded to LUX Grand Baie*, LUX Belle Mare*, and LUX South Ari Atoll*, with LUX* Grand Baie and its spa also earning multiple recognitions for wellness excellence and responsible hospitality. For honeymooners and newlyweds seeking beachfront settings paired with sustainability practices, the awards highlight destinations that combine romance, world-class service and forward-thinking travel values.

    Grand Baie BISOU Pool

    Adding to its achievements, LUX* Grand Baie received the 2026 VERIFIED™ Responsible Hospitality Badge for the second time, recognising the resort’s commitment to rigorous environmental, community and employee well-being standards aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

    “The Lux Collective continues to exemplify hospitality excellence across its portfolio of award-winning resorts and spas,” said Amanda Frasier, President of Standards & Ratings at Forbes Travel Guide, congratulating the teams for delivering world-class culinary, wellness and service experiences while maintaining exceptional luxury standards.

    Belle Mare

    From a honeymoon perspective, each property offers a distinctive romantic appeal. LUX* Grand Baie in Mauritius delivers ultra-luxury all-suite and villa accommodation, rooftop dining, panoramic ocean views and cutting-edge wellness facilities ideal for couples seeking sophisticated island glamour. Along Mauritius’ tranquil east coast, LUX* Belle Mare is celebrated for its serene beachfront setting, light-filled design and immersive spa experiences designed around the natural elements, perfect for relaxed newlywed retreats. Meanwhile, LUX* South Ari Atoll in the Maldives blends barefoot luxury with vibrant island experiences, including overwater villas, marine encounters such as whale shark sightings, and curated dining across multiple venues, creating unforgettable honeymoon memories.

    honeymoon destination
    South Ari Atoll Temptation Beach Pool Villa

    According to Olivier Chavy, Chief Executive Officer of The Lux Collective, the awards reflect the Group’s commitment to creating “places that feel deeply human, meaningfully responsible, and luxurious,” while continuing to expand its global portfolio of extraordinary travel destinations.

    honeymoon
    South Ari Atoll

    For couples planning weddings abroad, mini-moons or extended honeymoons, the 2026 Five-Star recognitions position LUX* resorts among the world’s most celebrated romantic luxury escapes.

    ALSO SEE: How to make a destination wedding easy on your guests

    How to make a destination wedding easy on your guests

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    father of the groom
    In Advice

    8 guidelines for father of the groom

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    The mother of the bride role comes with clear and concise instructions. So do the roles of father of the bride and maid of honour – but one of the most important, yet often overlooked roles, is that of the father of the groom.

    As times change, the duties allocated to the groom’s father have too, so if you’re unsure what to expect here are some unspoken guidelines.

    1. Suit up
    Possibly one of the most important duties of the groom’s father is that of suit selection. A son will often rely on his father to help pick out the perfect attire for his big day, give him a few tips and even make sure the tailor fit is just right.

    If the groom and groomsmen have an appointment for suit fittings the groom’s father should naturally attend as well and might be able to cash in on a discount along with the group.

    It is also important that you look the part for the big day so make sure you take your own fitting seriously.

    2. Offer to contribute to wedding costs
    It’s no secret that weddings cost a pretty penny – one of the most important ways to be involved and supportive of your son’s commitment is to be financially supportive.

    Offer up whatever you can to go towards the big day and ask where budget is needed.

    3. Attend or host the rehearsal dinner
    It some traditions the groom’s parents host the rehearsal dinner. This is the perfect opportunity for the groom’s father to step up and take centre stage to coordinate the night. Keep in mind what your son’s interests are, make sure the rehearsal is something that reflects his personality.

    4. Help where you can
    When it comes to weddings, there are so many aspects to consider and things to be done. As a supportive and proactive father of the groom, it is your duty to help where you can. Ensure you don’t limit your helpfulness to any specific duties and try your best to be available if needed. If you have a particular expertise that might come in handy, don’t be shy to offer.

    5. Hang out with the boys
    When the morning of the wedding arrives, it’s the father of the groom’s duty to hang with the boys and provide extra emotional support before the big event.

    It’s important to be supportive, positive and maybe even share a few funny stories about the groom’s childhood with his good friends to calm the nerves.

    Compliment your son on his wedding-day look and make him feel confident and ready to take to the alter. This is a special moment to give him some marital advice.

    6. Greet guests
    It goes without saying the the father of the groom should be prepared to greet guests, especially in the receiving line.

    Don’t be shy and put on your best, most welcoming smile while tending to each person who has come to share the special day with the lucky couple.

    7. Enjoy
    You can’t attend such an important day without enjoying it. Make sure you spend your time at the wedding well and smile, dance, eat and be merry.

    8. Say a little something
    Last but certainly not least, prepare a speech. It can often be a daunting task to put your thoughts on paper and especially to read them out to a room full of people, but this is your chance to rise above the nerves.

    Your speech does not have to be lengthy, in fact short and sweet is better.

    Make sure you put your heart into whatever you have to say, its not everyday that you get to share the first day of the rest of your child’s life with them and send them off with words that they will surely remember for years and years to come.

    ALSO SEE: Nail your wedding speech

    Nail your wedding speech

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    high-neck wedding dress
    In Fashion

    High-neck wedding dresses we love

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    From Grace Kelly to Audrey Hepburn, high-neck wedding dresses have been a celebrity favourite for decades.

    This style is classic and demure yet packs a punch. It also lends itself to a Victorian-inspired look. For brides wanting a more modest look on their big day, a high-neck gown offers coverage without compromising on style.

    Here are a few ways to pull off this trend:

     

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    bachelorette
    In Bachelorette Party

    Your complete bachelorette party planning checklist

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    It’s the bride’s all-important big send-off into married life. Been tasked with throwing the party? We have you covered…

    Like any event, a bachelorette party requires proper planning, and while it is a big responsibility (this is the bride’s last hurrah as a single woman), it doesn’t have to be a chore. Schedule fun planning evenings with the bridesmaids where you can thrash out ideas over a few glasses of wine or dinner.

    THE BASICS

    Avoid any unnecessary stress and start planning at least three months ahead of time. A good place to start is determining what kind of event your bride would love. Is she a party animal? Does she prefer smaller, more intimate dinner parties over crowded bars? Once you’ve come to a decision about what kind of bachelorette your bride is, turn your attention to the budget. A memorable hen party really doesn’t have to break the bank. The goal is for the bride to celebrate with her good friends, so make sure you don’t choose an experience that excludes those on a tighter budget.

    For a hen night on a shoestring, consider hosting the party at a friend’s house so that there’s no need to worry about venue hire fees. Once you have the location, ask guests to each bring a platter of food and a bottle of wine or bubbly. As for entertainment, there are plenty of fun, free games you can play at the house before venturing out to a club or bar – and consider an after-party venue that offers special deals like half-price cocktail evenings.

    If your friends have a little more to spend, you can still celebrate at home, but instead of guests bringing food, hire a caterer. To add some interest, book entertainment, whether it’s a karaoke machine or a pole-dancing class. For those who want to go all out, a weekend away is a great bonding experience – but remember, you’ll have to pay for the bride!

    THE CHECKLIST

    Whatever event and budget you decide on, you need to plan the hen night like a military operation – so delegate tasks among the bridesmaids to make sure everything on the list gets done. Here are a few things to remember:

    Invitations
    Give guests enough notice and hold the bachelorette party at least two weeks before the big day. Choose just one person to whom RSVPs should be sent.

    Venue hire
    If you do decide to host the party at a hired venue or take a trip out of town, book well in advance and make sure you do your research – a safe bet is to choose places that have come recommended by friends.

    Transport
    Drinking and driving is a no-no, so book taxis for the night in advance and be sure to confirm the booking the day before the party.

    Buy the goodies
    What would a bachelorette party be without silly props and crazy games? And of course, let’s not forget the bride’s outfit. Purchase everything at least a month before the event to avoid last-minute hassles.

    THE GUEST LIST

    Once you have a game plan, create a guest list. Depending on what you have planned, you need to decide whether you are extending invitations to family (yes, parents and grandparents) or just friends. A popular route to go so as not to exclude anyone is to host pre-party drinks where people of all ages can attend and then the youngsters can hit the town afterwards. Alternatively, consider throwing a hen night for just the friends and a more ‘civilised’ kitchen tea another day for all the women in the bride’s life.

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

    Should you have a joint bachelor and bachelorette party?

    Feature image: Pexels

    Words: Clare Syfret

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    wedding during ramadan
    In Advice

    How to plan a wedding during Ramadan with Muslim guests in mind

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    If your wedding falls during Ramadan and you have Muslim guests, you might wonder how to make the experience a respectful one for them during this time. With a little thought, you can ensure everyone feels included while you enjoy your day. These simple tips help you plan a wedding during Ramadan that works for all your guests.

    Time it right
    Avoid food-focused moments like canapés, cocktail hour or dinner before sunset if you can. Ramadan shifts each year, so sunset (iftar) times change daily and by city. Check a local timetable online. Even noting sunset on your programme helps guests plan.

    Offer simple iftar
    A small iftar table at sunset is thoughtful. Dates, water, juice or light snacks — enough to break the fast comfortably.

    Talk to your caterer
    Let your caterer know in advance about fasting guests and halal meal requests. Keep meals warm or plated later if needed. Small adjustments go a long way.

    Cocktail hour before sunset?

    If you have a cocktail hour before sunset, provide comfortable seating and social spaces so fasting guests can enjoy themselves without focusing only on food.

    Provide quiet spaces
    Some guests may want to pray after sunset. A small, private room is helpful. Not mandatory, just considerate.

    Share information in advance
    Mention that your wedding falls during Ramadan on your website or invitations. Let guests know you’ve considered fasting and halal options. It helps them plan and shows respect.

    Don’t assume everyone is fasting
    Children and those with health reasons may not fast. Flexibility is key, so focus on consideration, not assumptions.

    Small gestures count
    A quick check-in with Muslim guests before the day — asking if there’s anything that would make it easier — is often appreciated more than any big arrangement.

    ALSO SEE: 7 quirky wedding ideas perfect for summer

    7 quirky wedding ideas perfect for summer

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    quirky wedding ideas
    In Advice

    7 quirky wedding ideas perfect for summer

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    Make your big day a fun and festive affair with exciting and thoughtful quirky wedding ideas perfect for a beautiful summer’s day!

    1. A FLOWER WALL

    A flower wall can create a stunning fixture for your guests to take photographs. Make sure to use bright summer blooms to suit your theme.

    2. OUTDOOR GAMES

     

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    Let your guests bring out their inner child with fun outdoor games during the wedding reception. See our favourites here.

    3. DRINK INFUSIONS

    There’s nothing like fresh fruit infusions to quench your thirst under the hot sun. Set up a station with fresh and summery drink infusions where guests can fill up a glass every now and then.

    4. FESTIVAL VIBES

    Go full carnival for your big day with mini rides, food stalls and games your guests can take part in.

    5.  PICNIC TIME

    If you plan on having an outdoor wedding, set up picnic blankets and pillows for guests to relax on the lawns.

    6. BONFIRE BRAAI

    Following the picnic theme, light a bonfire or braai as the evening gets cooler for your loved ones to socialise around, marshmallows included!

    7. ICE CREAM STATION OR NAME CARDS

     

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    Spoil your guests with yummy frozen scoops of ice cream at an ice cream station to keep cool during your big day.

    ALSO SEE: Nail your wedding speech

    Nail your wedding speech

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    In Advice

    5 ways to honour lost loved ones on your big day

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    Losing a family member is heartbreaking – and when it comes to getting married, their absence is often amplified. Acknowledging these special loved ones can become overwhelming, especially when trying to maintain a celebratory atmosphere throughout your day.

    Fortunately, weddings are sentimental occasions, leaving room for a myriad of ways to acknowledge those dearly departed. The trick is to strike a balance – honouring loved ones without turning your big day into a memorial service. Whether the gesture be small and personalised or open and public, there is always a tasteful way to do it.

    Here are five simple and subtle ways to remember someone passed at your wedding:

    Attach a small photo to your bouquet: This is particularly meaningful for a bride who has lost her father – a highly personal yet subtle gesture that is the perfect little reminder that your dad is walking you down the aisle in spirit.

     

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    Incorporate old fabric into your suit or wedding gown: Keep the spirit of your lost loved ones close by – literally. Use mom’s wedding dress to create your own gown, or transform one of dad’s old ties into a trendy pocket square.

     

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    Reserve a seat at the ceremony: Of course nothing compares to having your loved ones physically by your side but reserving them a seat while you say your “I dos” can be a special reminder of their irreplaceable presence. Mark their seat with a favorite flower or sentimental possession.

     

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    Set up a photo display: This is a great option for couples who want to keep their tribute lighthearted. It avoids creating a heavy atmosphere for guests as family members can step aside to acknowledge deceased family members in private.

     

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    Dedicate a song: Whether it is your first dance or just a casual slot on the playlist, dedicate a song to someone no longer around. Levels of discretion can be altered to your personal taste here; make a grand gesture with an announcement or toast or simply appreciate the special moment to yourself.

     

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    wedding speech
    In Advice

    Nail your wedding speech

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    wedding canape
    In Food

    Pork and mushroom vol-au-vents for the perfect wedding canapés

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    Looking for the perfect cocktail-hour starter while you and your new spouse step away for your photoshoot? These pork-and-mushroom vol-au-vents are an elegant wedding canapé option that keeps guests satisfied and the celebration flowing.

    Serves: 4
    Prep Time: 45 minutes
    Cooking Time: 3.5 hours
    Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes

    Ingredients

    Pork filling
    • 200 g boneless, skinless pork shoulder
    • 3 garlic cloves, finely grated
    • 2 tsp fresh thyme
    • 1 tsp salt
    • 1 tsp pepper
    • 1/2 tsp nutmeg
    • 1 tbsp olive oil
    • 1 cup chicken stock
    • 100 g brown mushrooms, finely chopped
    • 1 tbsp brandy
    • 1/2 cup cream
    • 30 g grated Parmesan

    Vol-au-vent cases

    • 2 x 400 g rolls of frozen puff pastry, thawed
    • 2 tbsp olive oil
    • 1 egg yolk
    • 1 tbsp milk

    Bacon crumble

    • 100 g streaky bacon

    You’ll need

    • 1 x 4 cm diameter cookie cutter
    • 1 x 1.5 cm diameter cookie cutter
    • 1 tbsp chopped chives to serve

    Method

    Pork filling

    1. Preheat the oven to 180ºC.
    2. Place the pork shoulder into a deep oven tray. Mix the garlic, thyme, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and olive oil in a small bowl. Rub this spice mixture all over the pork and pour the chicken stock into the tray. Cover the tray with foil and place into the oven.
    3. Roast the pork for 3 hours, or until pull-apart tender.
    4. When the pork is roasted, remove it from the oven, pour the juices into a jug, and reserve. Use two forks to shred the pork.
    5. Heat a medium-sized saucepan and add the olive oil. Add the chopped mushrooms and fry until browned and caramelised.
    6. Deglaze the pan with the brandy and cook for 1 minute. Add the roasting juices to the mushrooms and bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and add the cream.
    7. Add the Parmesan cheese and simmer for about 3 minutes, then add the shredded pork and heat through. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.

    Vol au vent cases

    1. Line a baking tray with baking paper.
    2. Unroll one roll of pastry and leave it on the plastic it was rolled in. Using the 4 cm cookie cutter, cut out 25 circles (or as many as it yields), then place these pastry circles upside down on the prepared baking sheet.
    3. Beat the egg yolk and milk together, and then brush the circles with this mixture – take care not to brush too close to or around the sides of the circles, as this can cause the pastry not to rise properly.
    4. Unroll the second sheet of pastry and keep it on the plastic it was rolled in; cut the same amount of circles. You will end up with a doughnut-shaped ring of pastry.
    5. Lift these, turn them upside down and place them on top of the original circles that you have already egg washed. This will form the sides of your ring-shaped piece of pastry.
    6. Using a fork, prick the bottom pastry in the centre hole of the ring layer to prevent it from puffin up during baking. Brush the top of the ring circles with egg wash, but again, be careful not to get it on the sides, otherwise, your vol-au-vents may not rise properly.
    7. Note: The circles that were removed from the centre of the pastry rings, as well as any leftover pastry, can be egg washed and cooked separately. The round centre pieces can serve as ‘hats’ for the vol-au-vents, should you choose to use them.
    8. Place the tray into the oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the vol-au-vents are well-risen and golden. Remove the pastry cases from the oven and allow them to cool.

    Bacon crumble

    1. Turn the oven to the grill setting. Lay the bacon on a baking sheet and place it into the oven for 8 to 10 minutes to cook until crispy. Alternatively, cook in an air fryer. Let it cool slightly, then chop to a fine crumb.

    To assemble

    1. Add 1 to 2 teaspoons of the pork and mushroom mixture to each vol-au-vent to fill. Sprinkle bacon crumbs over the top of each vol-au-vent and garnish with chopped chives. Serve immediately.
    Recipe and feature image: SA Pork 
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    valentine's day gift
    In Dates

    Valentine’s Day gift ideas for under R460

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    Finding the perfect Valentine’s Day gift doesn’t have to mean stretching your budget. Thoughtful gestures often matter far more than price tags. This curated guide focuses on creative and meaningful Valentine’s gift ideas — all under R460.

    If you’re searching for a budget-friendly Valentine’s Day gift that feels personal, memorable, and heartfelt, these wallet-smart ideas will help you make the day special while keeping your finances firmly in check.

    Woolworths

    Babylonstoren

    Bash

    Yuppiechef

    Donkey Long Tong

     

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