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    joint bachelor and bachelorette party
    In Bachelorette Party

    Should you have a joint bachelor and bachelorette party?

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    For decades, kitchen teas, bachelorettes, and bachelors have been celebrated separately, but modern couples are rewriting the rules. Over the past few years, the idea of hosting a joint bachelor and bachelorette party has become far more common, especially among couples with overlapping friend groups or those looking to simplify pre-wedding plans. That said, separate celebrations are still the most common. Many brides love their girls-only moment, and plenty of grooms enjoy their own dedicated send-off. But with the rising cost of events, busy schedules, and couples wanting more shared memories, combined celebrations are definitely gaining momentum.

    Why combining your celebrations makes perfect sense

    1. More time with your favourite people

    Instead of splitting the wedding party for separate weekends, a joint celebration means you and your partner actually get to enjoy the build-up together. No FOMO, no separate plans. Just shared fun before the big day.

    2. It helps both sides bond

    A combined event brings bridesmaids, groomsmen, and mutual friends into one space. It’s the perfect ice-breaker before the wedding, especially if your groups don’t know each other well. By the time the big day arrives, everyone feels like they’ve been friends for years.

    3. It’s budget-friendly

    Two events often mean double the accommodation, transport, decor, and activities. A joint bash can cut costs for the wedding party and the couple. Think shared transport, split venue hire, and group discounts.

    4. Less pressure, more inclusivity

    Joint celebrations naturally avoid the stereotype-heavy, gendered activities some bridal parties want to avoid. They offer a more relaxed, everyone-welcome vibe. This is great for couples who prefer something low-key or who have mixed-gender friend circles.

    Fun ways to combine the celebrations

    If you’re leaning toward one shared event, here are ideas that work beautifully for co-ed groups:

    • A themed dinner party or backyard braai

    A relaxed, at-home celebration where everyone brings a dish or you hire a private chef. Add games or a DIY cocktail bar for extra fun.

    • A competitive game night

    Board games, trivia, or card games are perfect for mixed groups. Create teams that blend both sides of the wedding party for instant bonding.

    • A wine, gin, or craft beer tasting

    Great for groups wanting a more refined (or more adventurous!) outing. Non-drinkers can enjoy alternatives like coffee, cheese, or chocolate tastings.

    • A group activity day

    Think mini-golf, a cooking class, an escape room, or a friendly sports match. Something collaborative is ideal for building connections.

    • A party bus or boat day

    If you want high energy, rent a party shuttle or a boat for a few hours. It’s a simple way to keep everyone together without complicated planning.

    • A weekend away

    From glamping to a beach house, a shared weekend escape can be a cost-effective way to have both separate moments and joint activities.

    Why a combined celebration might not be the best fit

    Joint pre-wedding celebrations are fun and increasingly popular, but they don’t suit every couple or every friend group. Some people prefer the tradition of separate bachelor and bachelorette parties because they want the freedom to plan an experience that truly reflects the bride or groom individually.

    You also need to consider group dynamics: if certain personalities don’t mix well, or if your friends have very different ideas of what “fun” looks like, combining the celebrations could leave someone feeling out of place. And of course, if one side prefers a more relaxed experience while the other is expecting something wild and energetic, the compromise may dilute the excitement for both groups.

    Should you combine yours?

    In the end, it comes down to what feels most “you.” If your group is already close, you prefer shared experiences, or you’d like to simplify the pre-wedding calendar, a joint celebration might be perfect. If you’re dreaming of a more traditional girls-only or guys-only vibe, that’s just as valid.

    ALSO SEE: How to combine your bachelorette and kitchen tea

    How to combine your bachelorette and kitchen tea

    Feature image: Pexels

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    flower girl
    In Bachelorette Party

    The origin of the flower girl

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    Adding a touch of childlike wonder to weddings for as long as we can remember, the flower girl is not only adorable but a much-loved wedding tradition too. While we often associate the moment with sweetness and innocence, the meaning and origin of the practice are rooted in much older customs.

    There are two main ideas linked to this tradition. According to Reader’s Digest, it’s connected to themes of new beginnings and fertility (as many long-standing wedding traditions are), rather than romance.

    In ancient Rome, marriages were often arranged and carried significant social purpose, including uniting families and ensuring a continuation of the family line. During these ceremonies, historic accounts describe young attendants accompanying the bride. A young girl would walk ahead of her, tossing grains or herbs to symbolise prosperity, good fortune, and protection.

    As the centuries went on, the symbolism evolved with each era. Some medieval customs continued the idea of blessing the path ahead, often using herbs known for their associations with luck or protection. Over time, this slowly shifted into what we recognise today: little girls scattering petals or carrying blooms down the aisle.

    Reader’s Digest also notes that having a young girl lead the procession came to represent the transition from childhood to womanhood — one reason why flower girls are often dressed in similar colours or styles to the bride.

    Brides shares similar origins, adding that influences from both Roman and Greek traditions likely contributed to the early forms of this custom.

    As the tradition developed further, the Elizabethan era embraced children in the wedding party as symbols of hope and innocence. Brides notes that this era strengthened the sentimental meaning behind including little ones.

    By the time the Victorian era arrived, the flower girl had taken on a look much closer to the modern version. Petite baskets filled with flowers and delicate floral wreaths became popular, symbolising unending love and natural beauty.

    Today, we still include children in our wedding parties, although the meaning has changed dramatically. Most couples no longer associate the role with fertility or symbolism around innocence — they simply enjoy the charm, fun, and family connection that a flower girl brings to the aisle. It’s become a sweet way to involve beloved nieces, nephews, or little family friends in one of life’s most special moments.

    ALSO SEE: Flower Availability by Season and Locality: Plan Your Wedding Blooms Wisely

    Flower Availability by Season and Locality: Plan Your Wedding Blooms Wisely

    Image: Unsplash

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    In Accessories

    How to style a hijab with your wedding look

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    When crafting your perfect bridal look, it’s important to stay true to yourself and your values. For a Muslim bride who chooses to wear a hijab, this is an important addition to her beauty.

    A hijab is a headscarf some Muslim women wear over their hair and chest, in honour of their Islamic tradition. Islam encourages both men and women to dress modestly once they hit puberty, and a hijab is a common method of following this guideline for women. However, it is not a requirement, so some Muslims may choose not to wear one.

    hijab wedding
    Photo: Pinterest/wisamsveils, Bridal Hijabs & Turbans

    A hijab can be highly personal and speaks to one’s culture and upbringing. It can be worn in a multitude of ways, from a simple wrap to an ornate headpiece accessorised with jewels and stones. It’s like wearing a crown.

    The fabric you choose will have to complement your dress. Generally, brides have the hijab made from the same fabric their dress in to ensure it matches in colour and creates a uniform look. The fabric will act as a base, and you can always dress it up with jewels and extra accessories.

    hijab
    Photo: Pinterest

    If you want something different, you could always make a statement with some texture and dimension. Chiffon adds a lighter look and ethereal quality, and sowing 3D flowers of different sizes will add a stunning depth to your look. Lace is always perfect for a touch of romance, and a more clean look, opt for pearls.

    ALSO SEE: The rectangular wedding cake trend (and why we’re loving it)

    The rectangular wedding cake trend (and why we’re loving it)

    Feature image: Pinterest

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    kim cattrall
    In Celebs

    Kim Cattrall marries longtime partner in intimate ceremony

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    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.

     

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    A post shared by Who What Wear (@whowhatwear)

    A colourful romantic history

    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.

    ALSO SEE: Venus Williams shares the sweetest engagement moments

    Venus Williams shares the sweetest engagement moments

    Written by Jade McGee for Woman&Home.

    Feature image: Instagram/Kim Cattrall

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    lemon mojito lollipops
    In Food

    Lemon mojito lollipops make the perfect little boozy treat for your guests

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    Zesty, pretty and totally wedding-ready, these lemon mojito lollipops are the perfect addition to any celebration. Pop them into jars, scatter them across the snack table, or gift them as fun take-home treats. If you’re after wedding favour ideas that are cute, refreshing and budget-friendly, this recipe ticks every box.

    Recipe

    Serves: Makes 9
    Cooking Time: 30 mins

    Ingredients

    10 mint leaves
    2 lemons, thinly sliced; some
    slices halved
    220g sugar
    120g liquid glucose
    60ml (4 tbsp) soda water
    1,25ml (¼ tsp) mint extract (find at
    baking supply stores)
    80ml (1/3 cup) white rum

    Instructions

    1. Line a baking tray with baking paper or a silicone mat and grease with non-stick cooking spray. Place 3 different-sized (8cm-, 7cm and 5cm-diameter) round cookie cutters on the lined tray and grease them with non-stick cooking spray too. Position a wooden ice lolly stick underneath each cookie cutter to form the lollies’ handles, and arrange the lemon slices and mint leaves inside the cutters, as desired.
    2. Heat the sugar, liquid glucose and soda water in a saucepan over medium heat, allow to simmer until the sugar has melted, then increase the heat to high. Bring to a boil and cook, without stirring, 15 minutes or until the mixture reaches 120°C on a sugar thermometer.
    3. Stir in the mint extract and white rum, and boil, 5 minutes. Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the syrup to cool down slightly to break down the bubbles.
    4. Working quickly, drizzle up to 30ml (2 tbsp) syrup into each prepared cookie cutter, covering the mint leaves and lemon slices. Allow the mojito lollipops to set completely on the lined tray, about 10 minutes. Lift the cookie cutters, remove the lollipops and set the lollipops aside, standing them upright in a jar. Repeat these steps with the remaining syrup, re-greasing the moulds and adding the lolly sticks each time. (If the syrup hardens during the process, simply return it to the heat to melt.)

    ALSO SEE: Embracing Moody Jewel Tones for South African Weddings

    Color & Mood Shifts: Embracing Moody Jewel Tones for South African Weddings

    Recipe from Food&Home.

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    rectangular wedding cake
    In Wedding Cakes

    The rectangular wedding cake trend (and why we’re loving it)

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    Round cakes will forever be classics, but 2025 belongs to the rectangle. Clean lines, modern edges, and a totally fresh silhouette… it’s the cake equivalent of a stylish reboot.

    Modern, minimal, completely chic

    Rectangular cakes just look contemporary. They photograph beautifully, suit almost any theme, and bring that polished, editorial feel couples are loving right now. Honestly? We can see this trend rolling right into 2026 (at least, we hope so).

    wedding cake
    Photo: Pinterest

    A dream for cake artists

    The long, flat surface is basically a mood board waiting to happen:

    • soft brushstrokes

    • subtle metallics

    • bold geometric patterns

    • delicate florals

    More space means more creativity.

    Photo: Pinterest

    Practical in the best way

    Neat slices. Easy serving. Zero fuss. If you have a big guest list, the rectangle has your back. And your caterer will thank you.

    Photo: Pinterest

    Style it your way

    This shape works beautifully with:

    • minimalist white-on-white

    • dramatic colour contrasts

    • vintage piping (loving this comeback)

    • greenery and fresh florals

    • tall, stacked tiers for extra height

    It’s versatile without trying too hard.

    ALSO SEE: No Cake, No Bouquet Toss, No Rules, Couples Are Reinventing Weddings

    No Cake, No Bouquet Toss, No Rules, Couples Are Reinventing Weddings

    Feature image: Pinterest/Veranda Flowers

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    self care for the modern bride
    In Advice

    5 Ways to practice self care while planning your wedding

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    You don’t have to sit on a hill and meditate to de-stress. Although that’s exactly what you’ll want to do after haggling with wedding vendors and explaining to your uncle (second-removed) why he isn’t sitting at the main family table. 

    Whether you’re planning your wedding or meandering through life, making sure that you indulge in self-care is oh-so-important. But with so many things happening in the background, it’s pretty easy to let things slip through the cracks. 

    To keep you on track and remind you to incorporate self-care tasks – no matter how small – into your routine as you go about your wedding planning, here are a few things we hope you won’t let take a backseat:

    Eat Up 

    For some reason, brides feel the need to go on crazy fad diets in order to lose weight to fit into their wedding dress, but no bride wants to look like a completely different person when looking back at their wedding photos. And no one wants to feel hungry all the time. Nutrition is such a major component when it comes to self-care and is the key to our mental and physical well-being. Skip the fads and stick to a balanced diet that hit those targeted food groups – veggies, proteins, and all the wholesome goodness. 

    It’s all mental 

    When our cortisol levels are constantly elevated (thanks, stress) our mental health tends to take a backseat. While there’s a certain level of stress and anxiety that comes with wedding planning, if you feel that it’s affecting your mood and it’s gone beyond just “a bad day,” do not ignore such a big sign. Take advantage of the resources available to you, whether that be meditation apps, breathwork retreats, talk therapy or a break away from wedding planning. Follow your intuition. 

    Get your heart pumping 

    Now, we understand that your Significant Other is more than enough when it comes to getting your heart pumping and skipping beats, but sometimes you need a little more. Exercise is an excellent way to de-stress, so make sure that you get sweating. Take it easy with yoga or pilates, or really push things to the limit with some incredible workouts like CrossFit.

    If you feel yourself checking your schedule and watch, why not keep things simple by going for post-dinner walks. This is also a great way to get those endorphins going and connect with your partner as the big day approaches. 

    It’s okay to relax

    When you’re juggling work, a social life and wedding planning, it can be difficult to find the time to let go and relax. Release your grip on the reins and indulge in activities that will allow your stress to melt away. Think; movie nights, coffee dates (minus wedding talk), Netflix binges, naps and luxurious baths with tons of candles. Throw in a massage or two in for good measure! 

    Don’t forget those around you

    During the hustle and bustle that is wedding planning, you can sometimes forget about those closest to you. Decompress by spending some quality time with friends and family, doing things that are completely unrelated to your wedding. Sunday dinners with family and Saturday brunches with friends – now that’s magic!

    ALSO SEE: Relaxing bachelorette party ideas for the chilled bride

    Relaxing bachelorette party ideas for the chilled bride

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    wine tips
    In Advice

    Simple wine tips for weddings and honeymoons

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    Summer celebrations — from weddings to honeymoons — are all about sunshine, good company, and a glass in hand. And while it’s easy to just open a bottle and pour, a little know-how can make every sip feel more special.

    The right prep, the right pairing, and the right setup can elevate your reception drinks or honeymoon evenings instantly.

    Make the most of every bottle

    Start with your senses: look at the colour, swirl gently, and inhale to pick up the wine’s distinctive notes before taking a slow first sip. The small details matter:

    Use the right glasses:

      • Tulip-shaped glasses bring out aromas

      • Flutes keep bubbles lively

      • Stemless glasses are ideal for relaxed settings

    Get the temperature right:

        • Sparkling wine: 6–8°C

        • Whites: 8–12°C

        • Rosé: ±10°C

        • Light reds: 12–14°C

        • Fuller reds: 14–18°C

    Don’t underestimate presentation:
    Nicely chilled bottles, beautiful glassware, and a simple setup make home celebrations or honeymoon picnics feel extra special.

    And above all, pace yourselves; responsible sipping is non-negotiable.

    Quick pairing guide for wedding menus & honeymoon meals

    Crisp white wines
    Perfect with prawns, seafood salads, lemon-herb roast chicken, or fresh goat’s cheese.
    Serve at 8–10°C.

    Dry rosé
    Great with cold cuts, light salads, and tomato-based snacks.
    Serve at 8–10°C.

    White blends or Chenin-style wines
    Lovely with creamy salads, mild curries, and roast chicken.
    Serve at 10–12°C.

    Light reds
    Ideal with grilled meats, boerewors, and lamb chops — perfect for warm weather.
    Serve at 14–16°C.

    Sparkling wine / MCC
    Perfect for starters, seafood, desserts, and all your celebratory toasts.
    Serve at 6–8°C.

    All-rounder
    A chilled dry rosé works beautifully with a mix of courses.

    Quick ways to upgrade your wine experience

    • Whites → smaller bowl

    • Reds → larger bowl

    • Rosé → tapered bowl

    • Sparkling → wide tulip

    Temperature and glassware alone can completely change your wine experience — whether it’s your reception, a small gathering, or a sunset honeymoon sip.

    ALSO SEE: No Cake, No Bouquet Toss, No Rules, Couples Are Reinventing Weddings

    No Cake, No Bouquet Toss, No Rules, Couples Are Reinventing Weddings

    Info: Supplied by ByDesign.

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    wedding day
    In Advice

    The ultimate wedding day emergency kit to avoid disaster!

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    We all hope that our wedding day will go off without a hitch, but sometimes mishaps happen. Between wardrobe malfunction to allergic reactions to beauty blunders – it’s all part of the process.

    I’m sure we’d all love to be prepared for every scenario our minds can conjure, but this is simply not possible. However, a little preparation goes a long way and adding an emergency kit to your wedding day can be a great way to alleviate stress.

    Needle and Thread

    Sometimes things tear, and that’s true for bridesmaids and wedding dresses. Having a handy dandy sewing kit is a must when getting ready for your big day, it helps avoid anyone running around looking for a needle and thread.

    Shoe Repair Glue 

    We’re preparing for everything, right? While a tear in a dress is a very real reality, sometimes heels get stuck on things they shouldn’t and give way to gravity. Adding some shoe repair glue into your emergency kit may save you the trouble of re-doing your makeup after your wedding shoe hits a snag.

    Double-Sided Wardrobe Tape

    Stop necklines from sagging and keep straps covered with this life-saving tool! This magical little took has the ability to tackle wardrobe malfunction by simply peeling and sticking.

    Picture: Pinterest

    Wine Stain Remover

    The drinks are flowing and the guests are getting down on the dance floor. A shove here and a spill there, sometimes white wedding dresses can get stained when having a good time. Not to worry, Takealot has a few good options when it comes to stain removals, especially red wine!

    Mini First Aid Kit

    Grab a travel-sized first aid kit from your nearest pharmacy or online. These kits are equipped with everything you could need when handling bumps, scratches, and other minor accidents that may derail your day.

    ALSO SEE: 5 Breathtaking allergy-friendly florals to add to your wedding!

    5 Breathtaking allergy-friendly florals to add to your wedding!

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    what not to do with your skin
    In Advice

    What NOT to do to your skin pre-wedding

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    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!

    ALSO SEE: Keep your hair healthy on your summer honeymoon

    Keep your hair healthy on your summer honeymoon

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