Kim Cattrall has married her partner of nearly a decade, marking a joyful new chapter for the 69-year-old star best known for her role as Samantha Jones in Sex and the City.
The actress tied the knot with audio engineer Russell Thomas on 4 December in a small ceremony attended by just 12 guests. Styled by iconic Sex and the City costume designer Patricia Field, Cattrall’s wedding look added a nostalgic nod to the character that made her a global favourite.
Cattrall and Thomas first met in 2016 when she appeared on BBC Radio’s Woman’s Hour, where he was working behind the scenes. The pair kept in touch, began dating shortly after, and have been together for nine years. Thomas, 14 years younger than Cattrall, has been described by her as “a rebel” with a wicked sense of humour.
In a recent interview, she said their relationship is defined by its ease. “I’m very comfortable around him. He’s a firecracker… and he’s easy on the eyes,” she told People.
Cattrall has been married three times before. Her first marriage, to writer Larry Davis, was annulled in 1979. She went on to marry German architect Andre J. Lyson in 1982, with the couple divorcing seven years later. Her third marriage, to musician Mark Levinson, began in 1998 and included their much-publicised collaboration on the 2002 book Satisfaction: The Art of the Female Orgasm. They split in 2004.
Over the years, she has also been linked to notable figures, including Pierre Trudeau, Daniel Benzali, Gerald Casale and Bernard-Henri Lévy.
Open about a child-free life
Cattrall has long spoken honestly about choosing not to have children, explaining that maternal fulfilment can take many forms. “I am not a biological parent, but I am a parent,” she has said, citing her close relationships with mentees, nieces and nephews. In past essays, she noted that societal pressure once made her question her path, but ultimately she chose a life aligned with her instincts, not expectations.
A happy ending
After decades of navigating love in the public eye, Cattrall’s fourth marriage marks a fresh start with a partner she describes as both grounding and adventurous. Nearly 20 years after Sex and the City ended, the actress who embodied one of TV’s most commitment-averse characters appears to have found her perfect match — and a love story all her own.
A rare Dom Pérignon Vintage 1961, created for the wedding of H.R.H. The Prince of Wales and Lady Diana, will soon go on auction at Bruun Rasmussen. The bottle is one of the few remaining from the royal celebration and is expected to draw major interest.
A royal bottle with a big price tag
The 1981 wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana is still known as the “Wedding of the Century.” Now, more than 40 years later, collectors can buy a piece of that moment. Bruun Rasmussen will offer a magnum of Dom Pérignon Vintage 1961 on 11 December. It carries an estimated value of EUR 67,000–80,000, which is roughly R1.3 million to R1.55 million.
Dom Pérignon created this special release for the royal wedding on 29 July 1981. Guests enjoyed it after the ceremony at St Paul’s Cathedral and during the reception at Buckingham Palace.
“Vintage 1961 is one of Dom Pérignon’s most celebrated vintages. The bottles for the royal wedding came from a very small run, which makes them extremely rare,” says Thomas Rosendahl, Head of the Wine Department at Bruun Rasmussen.
Each bottle was disgorged in 1981 and finished with a commemorative label marking the occasion. This detail makes the release even more collectible.
Rosendahl explains why the bottle is such a standout piece:
“It’s more than a great vintage. It’s a cultural artefact linked to an unforgettable royal event. We expect strong international interest from wine collectors and fans of royal memorabilia.”
The magnum will appear at the Bruun Rasmussen auction on 11 December.
In the digital era, making announcements for any occasion is pretty common. You know your friend from high school has declared a certain breakfast spot ‘utterly ideal’, your co-worker’s announcement of their newest plant-child, and your younger sibling’s every move.
However, there are some announcements that still remain somewhat sacred in the land of social media, and your wedding or engagement announcement sits at the top of the tree.
So, how do you do it ‘right?’ As in, how do you not come off as obnoxious, or how do you meander coming across a little too nonchalant (to the point where people might wonder if you’re even excited?)
Do you go for the flashy carousal post where everyone gets to see the entire story – from the spot you thought you were simply having dinner at to the ultimate star on your finger, or do you play it lowkey and post a snippet of the magic?
Here are some tips to keep in your back pocket on how to announce your special news on social media:
1. Make sure those closest to your heart about it before you go live on socials:
The last thing you want to rain on your engagement parade is an unhappy friend or family member. Before you break the internet, make sure you tell those closest to your heart first, and especially those who will certainly see it on social media first.
2. Use photos that are meaningful to you, or do a shoot
Not everyone grabs perfect photos from their engagement moment. Your nails might not be on point, your partner may be wearing the same outfit as in your last post, or all the photos are blurry. Now, you may be part of a pretty funky couple that sees these as part of their own chill aesthetic, and if that sounds like your relationship then go for it in posting. Instagram especially is long past its curated look, with photo-dumps showing more organic life ruling the roost. However, if you really want to go the full 9-yards and have a little shoot (either professionally or at the trust hands of your phone camera on timer) then that’s amazing too. The bottom line here is to use photos that are meaningful to your relationship – not glossy photos that aren’t you or your partner, or an obscure ring that isn’t even yours found on the Internet.
3. Use a caption that speaks to your relationship and your audience simultaneously
It’s a special announcement and so no matter which platform you’re using (par Twitter) a longer caption is more than allowed. However, you can also keep it short and sweet by using a quote from a song, film or book that says it all. You can even stick to the same emoji you have next to your partner’s name on your phone if you want, but the key focus here is using a caption that again, is special to your relationship and won’t be uncomfortable for your audience. Ie: Telling your audience that you’re better than everyone else because you won’t die alone is probably not a good way to announce your special news.
4. Make a story highlight for the build-up to the big day, not necessarily separate posts
We know you’re excited, and most of your close friends and followers will be too! However, that doesn’t mean that everyone expects or wants a daily update on what you’re doing for the wedding. If you do want to document the big build up, all the cake flavours you tried and wedding locations you scouted, put them on your stories (either Facebook or Instagram) and compile them in a highlight. The bonus of collecting all these moments is that you’ll have a whole trailer before the wedding, and it could also make an incredible TikTok.
Marriage isn’t a straight line—it’s a winding journey filled with highs, lows, and countless “we’ll figure it out” moments. Over the years, many couples realise that love looks different than it did on their wedding day. Between raising kids, career changes, or surviving life’s curveballs, your vows become more than poetic promises—they’re proof of endurance.
That’s why more couples are choosing to renew their vows. It’s not just about romance; it’s a reminder that after everything, you’d still choose each other. Relationship strategist Elizabeth Overstreet calls it “a reaffirmation that the good continues to outweigh the challenges,” a symbolic act of resilience and recommitment.
The Milestone Years That Matter Most
Traditionally, couples celebrate milestones every five years: wood for the 5th, silver for the 25th, gold for the 50th. But in reality, the “right” anniversary is deeply personal. Maybe your 12th year felt more meaningful than your 10th because you overcame a rough patch or welcomed your first child.
Experts say couples often choose the 5th, 10th, 25th, or 50th anniversary as natural points to renew vows. Others prefer moments of personal triumph—such as recovering from illness, surviving financial strain, or simply rediscovering their spark.
In South Africa, where family remains central to community life, many couples use vow renewals to bring generations together. It’s a way to remind children and loved ones that love, like ubuntu, grows stronger when shared.
Things To Consider Before Planning A Vow Renewal
Before diving into Pinterest boards and floral quotes, take a step back. Even small vow renewals need planning, a bit of budgeting, and emotional intention.
Your Guest List
Decide who you want to share the moment with. Some couples opt for a quiet exchange under a tree or in their backyard; others invite family and close friends for a full celebration. Wedding planner Alicia Mae says many use vow renewals to do what they couldn’t the first time—whether that means adding personal touches or skipping the stressful parts.
Budget And Costs
Vow renewals can range from simple to extravagant. A small garden ceremony may cost just a few thousand rand, while a venue or resort celebration can easily run into tens of thousands. Costs vary depending on location, décor, and photography, but experts say a renewal can be as intimate or lavish as you wish—it’s the meaning that counts.
Timing And Significance
Think beyond the numbers. Choose a date that reflects your shared story—maybe the year you survived something tough together, or when you moved cities and started anew. This emotional anchor often makes the ceremony more memorable than the anniversary itself.
Destination Ideas For Your Vow Renewal
From vineyards in the Cape Winelands to beaches in St. Lucia, vow renewals today span the globe. Some South Africans even turn their milestone into a travel experience.
Beach Escapes
Couples often head to coastal resorts for an intimate “I Do for Two” experience—like a secluded ceremony at sunset with just the sound of waves and champagne in hand.
Vineyard Celebrations
Wine farms remain a timeless choice. Places like Franschhoek or Stellenbosch offer breathtaking views, fine wine, and that old-world romance perfect for a small renewal surrounded by nature.
Family Retreats
Others choose to rent a small boutique hotel or lodge, bringing their families along for a weekend celebration. It’s less about formality and more about connection—recreating the joy of a wedding without the stress.
The Heart Of It All
Whether it’s your 5th or 25th anniversary, renewing your vows isn’t about redoing your wedding—it’s about rediscovering each other. It’s saying, “After all these years, through every version of us, I still choose you.”
And in a world that often rushes past the quiet, meaningful moments, that might be the most romantic gesture of all.
Brides-to-be are always on the hunt for the perfect wedding dress. But those on the hunt also know just how expensive the mission can be with some dream dresses often costing upwards of R10 000.
However, a Scottish bride-to-be attempted to change this narrative. Katie Louise Rice was set to get married, saying yes to a R13 900 dress from a bridal boutique, but her tune quickly changed after she spotted two gorgeous dresses online that cost £55, or R2000.
“My dress from my bridal shop is my “traditional” ceremony dress, and I have spent over £800 on that; however, it’s very heavy, and I wanted to try to find something lighter for my evening reception,” she says.
Picture: Katie Lousie Rice
The blushing bride purchased her long-sleeved double-layered dress from Shein and is set to don it during her nighttime reception.
While Katie couldn’t be happier with her purchases, she does caution brides to rethink the idea that wedding dresses need to be expensive.
“Shop around!
I kind of wish now I had tried the “cheaper” dresses first, then moved on to the bridal shops,” she says.
Miss Universe 2017 Demi-Leigh Tebow and her husband Tim Tebow have us green with envy as they took to socials to share their recent trip to the Turks and Caicos Islands in the United Kingdom where they enjoyed some downtime.
Demi-Leigh shared a stunning clip and photos of the pair on her Instagram, revealing that it’s the first time she and Tim had gone on holiday alone since their lavish wedding in South African back in 2020.
“Our first time away by ourselves since our wedding. No other couples, friends, colleagues, no noise. Just us. Great food, views, & a whole lot of pickle ball. The best few days,” wrote Demi-Leigh in an Instagram post.
The couple looked sunkissed and gorgeous as they smiled for the camera, and we can’t help but add Turks and Caicos Islands to our honeymoon bucket list.
Take a look at some of the photos below:
Picture: Demi-Leigh Nel / InstagramPicture: Demi-Leigh Nel / InstagramPicture: Demi-Leigh Nel / InstagramPicture: Demi-Leigh Nel / Instagram
Feature Image: Picture: Demi-Leigh Nel / Instagram
They say that money can’t buy everything (and certainly not love), but often when wedding plan talks are in the works, it’s easy to get caught up in the tale that “expensive is better.”
But is it, actually?
Recently, Reddit users decided to weigh in on the topic.
u/11sam111 kicked off the conversation with the concept that expanding one’s budget to focus money beyond the big day (ie: on honeymoons!) is a better way to go than cashing it all in for a day where “you miss everything because it’s so busy.”
Other Reddit users were quick to share their responses and shed light on what actually makes the day memorable that more often than not, doesn’t come with a price tag.
Here’s what people’s thoughts were:
Stick to what you can afford
“We had a $300 wedding and spent the $20k that would have gone to a bit wedding on a house down payment and medical bills for having our kid. On the other hand my friend had a $35k wedding that was two full days of having a blast with all of her loved ones and that’s okay too! No shame either way as long you stick to what you can afford and don’t hurt anyone.” – ThrowRA_SILspilled
There might be better uses for the budget
“I’ve talked with several people that did a similar thing, they all regret nothing. One took all the wedding money he was gonna spend and used it on a down payment for a house, and another used it to take a month off with his husband to travel.” – Jan_Itor_Md_
If you spend it, don’t regret it
“I have no regrets about spending money for an event that was meaningful to the people I love.” – the_lemon_lobster
Don’t let your wedding put you in debt
“One of my friends spent 30k on his wedding. Then was upset because he and his new wife couldn’t afford to get [an] apartment together because they were in debt for 25k cus they took a loan to pay for it. Just insanity” – keyboardstatic
It’s your money
“I mean honestly, it’s your money and people waste the majority of their money on frivolous stuff anyway so if that’s what you chose to spend your money on and it made you happy, then kudos to you. I’m not really knocking the people who do per se, I just don’t understand it. But I totally don’t need to.” –SonOfSet1
A little first-class travel couldn’t hurt
“I eloped with my now husband in feb of 2020 (pre lockdown) we used the money we save to fly to Thailand first class and spent two weeks travelling for only 8grand total! Waaaay better use of our time.” – MidnaMarbles
What are your thoughts? Are you team “as expensive as possible” or team “save it for something else meaningful”?
After two years of travel bans and lockdown restrictions, it feels as though we have a new lease on life! Travel is back on the cards and wedding couples are taking full advantage. Bridal couples worldwide have spoken and they’re dishing the dirt on the best destinations to tie the knot in 2022.
From the historical ruins of Europe to the rugged landscapes of Africa, here’s where bridal couples are saying “I do”:
1. Zimbabwe
There are multiple venue options for planning a wedding in Zimbabwe. If it’s a safari wedding that you’re after, you cannot beat Chengeta Safari Lodge located just outside of Harare. This stunning venue gives you the chance to say ‘I do’ surrounded by the raw beauty Zimbabwe offers, all while zebra graze nearby on the 13,000-hectare private game reserve, allowing you endless photogenic landscapes to choose from.
If it’s a waterside you’re imagining, try Lake Kariba Houseboats which delivers unforgettable scenery thanks to the vast man-made lake that will feature in every photo.
Picture: Pinterest
2. Italy
The European nation has been in pop culture news recently after the oldest Kardashian said ‘I do.’ It’s not difficult to see why this nation, bursting with culture and good food is the perfect destination for wedding couples. A stunning villa with views of the rolling hills of Tuscany to the breathtaking architecture of Rome, Italy oozes romance from every angle.
For those with a luxury wedding in mind, Palazzo Gori Pannilini is the perfect place to get married. It is a five-star hotel just outside of Florence that is full of Italian charm and history which will be perfect for the big day.
Picture: Rocky Weddings
3. South Africa
South Africa offers a huge range of locations and settings where couples can tie the knot. Cape Town is the perfect location for the cosmopolitan types with The Bay Hotel being one of the most highly commended wedding venues in the city. The luxury venue has a rotunda for those who want a lavish, classy and whimsical day or couples can opt for their exclusive private beach club with views of Camps Bay for a more relaxed setting.
Picture: Pinterest
4. Portugal
Thanks to warm weather and being surrounded by the clear blue seas of the Meditteranean, Portugal has become a popular wedding destination offering a whole host of luxury venues. For smaller ceremonies, there are multiple world-class golf clubhouses in Algarve that are sure to be an idyllic setting.
But for those who want more room for a bigger wedding, you cannot beat Gremio Palace in the heart of Lisbon; it’s a small secret garden hidden behind the doors of a beautiful pink palace in the historic district that offers all the charm and romance of the city.
Picture: Pinterest
5. Kenya
Kenya’s tranquil setting surrounded by the sounds of the bush is so romantic that even Prince Williams chose it as the location to propose to the now Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton. If it’s a safari wedding that you’re after, Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp is the venue for you! It is et on a private concession to ensure your big day is still intimate and it boasts abundant iconic wildlife and panoramic Masai Mara views, for a sophisticated and contemporary safari feel.
Picture: Jonas Peterson
6. Thailand
It is hard to imagine a more beautiful setting than the many gorgeous beaches in Thailand. In Koh Samui, couples can book out the 5-star The Tongsai Bay Hotel which has been dubbed the ultimate romantic hideaway, as it gives access to the large freeform pool overlooking ocean views, you can marry on the beach beneath a floral canopy, including a traditional Thai water blessing to create everlasting memories.
Or if you want a truly unforgettable venue, how about the limestone caves surrounding Rayavadee in Krabi? They overlook the turquoise waters of Phranang beach meaning your wedding photos will be exceptionally beautiful.
Picture: Pinterest
7. Jamaica
To be on an island surrounded by the irresistible Caribbean spirit is such an iconic way to start married life with your partner. It’s not just stunning beaches with Insta-worthy sunsets though, you can also opt for ceremonies in the verdant mountains or around the glittering waterfalls. Couples can get married at Ocho Rios waterfalls to embrace being amidst the tropical rainforest with a perfect waterfall as the backdrop. To continue to celebrations, you can host the reception at the Sandals Ochi Luxury Resort.
Picture: Pinterest
8. Morocco
Fete in the foothills of the Atlas mountains at the Marrakech retreat, The Capaldi, which has a rooftop terrace with expansive views of the surrounding olive groves – perfect for a spectacular wedding day! Despite being contemporary and stylish, it still has traditional Moroccan touches with rich textiles and opulent antiques that create an atmosphere of understated luxury.
Picture: Pinterest
9. Brazil
Fancy a private peninsula for your special day? The Ponta dos Ganchos Exclusive Resort is the place for you. You and your guests will be surrounded by Brazilian bungalows on the edge of a sparkling emerald sea and you can host your wedding reception in the gazebo at the end of the wooden bridge where you can have the most romantic wedding breakfast ever.
But if you want a setting more inland, take a look at Botanique Hotel and Spa in São Paulo. It is surrounded by a unique natural environment that is authentic Brazilian culture making for a more peaceful setting.
Picture: Pinterest
10. Mexico
If you want to get married in a place where many A-listers have tied the knot, then Mexico is a good place to start. Michael Phelps and Nicole Johnson chose to get wed in Cabo (formally known as Los Cabos) because it beautifully captures both the panoramic desert landscapes and turquoise waters.
The Cape is a truly magical hotel option if you want to recreate a similar wedding day, it is immersed in the natural beauty of the Los Cabos and will work for a romantic sunset wedding or even a formal celebration, The Cape can be transformed into the vision you have for your big day.
“Love is the one thing we’re capable of perceiving that transcends dimensions of time and space.”
One incredible couple is giving a new meaning to this quote, proving that not even war can stop love.
Anastasia and Anton Sokolov from Ukraine got married in a country that is currently under attack due to the invasion of Russia.
The video of the couple getting married tugs at the heartstrings and really puts a few things in perspective. The newlyweds said their “I dos” in a subway against a historical building that appears to have been destroyed by the war.
Anton and Anastasia have no plans to go on a honeymoon anytime soon. One day, they want to go somewhere with a beach and palm trees. Before that happens, there is a war to win, and brutal days ahead. But yesterday, there was hope, and beauty, and love inside the ugliness. pic.twitter.com/4WNT42KfiE
The couple shared this magical moment with civilians and journalists who managed to join in and capture this unusual moment.
No wedding cake, no A-line fitted wedding dress, and no wedding band – just a simple affair that celebrates love, especially during a time that is filled with so much sadness and destruction.
The bride wore a cream-like silk dress with a layer of tulle fabric that ensured she looked like a bride – not forgetting the veil! Her beaming face was framed with a gorgeous flower crown that paired perfectly with the bouquet of tulips in her hand.
The groom looked handsome yet casual. He wore a loose-fitting white shirt and a black jacket and trousers.
While it may not be the ideal setting or time, this incredible moment showcases that love has no reason, no boundaries and no distance.
The behind-the-scenes of your big day is often the least prioritised but is something that deserves just as much attention. After all, it not only sets the tone for the rest of the day but the time you spend with your bridal party will be seared into your mind forever – no pressure. With a glass of bubbly in hand, it’s the perfect time to have a few laughs, shake off the nerves and connect with your bridal crew.
So, why not do it will donning a few silky robes. Getting robes for your bridal party may not be a requirement, but the addition can sprinkle a little magic onto your day and be an amazing little memento for them to keep close to them.
