JHB North - May 23

JOBURG NORTHERN SUBURBS 

Healthy meals 

Sexy sleepwear 

Hot dates for mum 

A R5000+ Spoil 

PLUS ... 

Heavenly honeymoons 

SAY 

I DO 

Bridal designer & 

weightlifting champ 

LARYNE JEFFERIES 

... breaking records 

& stereotypes 

to luminous beauty, 

sensational bubbles, 

and romantic roses 

It’s our annual wedding issue ... swoon! 

SHOPPING, PEOPLE AND LIFESTYLE IN YOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD 

MAY 23

I DO 

Focus on weddings ... 

all brides, bubbles & beauty 

32

CONTENTS 

GET IT 

Editorial 

Phone 010-971-3600 

Caxton House • 368 Jan Smuts Avenue 

Craighall, Joburg 

Instagram: @get_it_joburg_north 

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Website: getitmagazine.co.za/ 

joburg-north 

National Group Editor & National Sales 

Kym Argo 

kyma@caxton.co.za 

Facebook and Instagram: 

Get It National Magazines 

Website: getitmagazine.co.za 

Workflow & Studio Manager Megan Brett 

Contributor: Lisa Witepski and 

Melinda Shaw 

Joburg Hub Sales 

Norman Dawe 010-971-3601 

Distribution 010-971-3605 

Get It Joburg Northern Suburbs is 

distributed free of charge. For a full list of 

where it is available phone 010-971-3605 

Published by CTP Limited 

Competition rules 

The judges’ decision is final. Prizes cannot be 

transferred or redeemed for cash. Competitions 

are not open to the sponsors or Caxton 

employees or their families. Get It Magazine 

reserves the right to publish the names of 

winners, who will be contacted telephonically 

and need to collect their prizes from Caxton 

Northern branch within 10 days or they will be 

forfeited. Prizewinners’ names are published on 

our social media pages monthly. 

THIS MONTH 

04 What’s on ... make May memorable with great tributes and glam affairs 

08 Book Club ... romance between the pages and a flirty French aperitif 

10 Wishlist ... marvellous finds perfect for mum 

12 Social ... scent-sational moments with Elizabeth Arden 

PEOPLE 

14 Creative director Robyn Davie shares her obsession with creativity 

16 International bestselling author Jo Watson’s last word on writing 

BEAUTY & FASHION 

22 Less counting sheep, more peaceful sleep 

FOOD 

26 Quick and easy one pot wonders 

28 Good + Simple = Delicious healthy meals 

GARDENING 

30 Rake up for Winter 

FOCUS ON WEDDINGS 

32 Bridal designer Laryne Jefferies 

breaks weightlifting records and stereotypes 

34 Luminous and lovely bridal beauty buys 

36 Advice from the expert on how to prep for the big day 

37 Only the best for your bridesmaids 

38 Celebrate with the finest of bubbly 

40 Full blooms and romantic roses 

45 Five heavenly honeymoon hotspots 

TRAVEL 

49 A local paradise on the North Coast 

WIN 

50 The ultimate dinner party starter kit 

COVER PHOTO 

Photographer: Nicole Moore. 

Details: nicolemoorephotography 

Make-up: Makeup by Ryno, 

071-688-0242 

Hair: Tanaz Hair. Details: tanaz.net 

Outfit: Laryne Jefferies Fashion Design 

Location: Beechwood Gardens. 

Details: beechwoodgardens.co.za 

MAY 23 

10 

May 23 Get It Magazine 03

A hot date! 

Make time, this month, to shop 

for mum. We’ve our eye on this 

Monsieur Christian Lacroix designed 

Desigual Lacroix squared foulard 

with orchid print. Swoon. R969 from 

Desigual at Sandton City. 

05 

Something splendid 

is lined up this May to 

celebrate mamas. Dress in your 

most stylish outfit, and invite the 

gals (and mom) for a memorable 

lunch ... Mama Lunch at Fairlawns. 

There’s bubbly on arrival and a 

three-course meal with dishes 

from Bibby’s Kitchen recipe book 

(think caramelized leek risotto and 

roast salmon with dill oil). It’s a day 

filled with moms who jostle work 

and home life and understand 

the importance of me time and 

self care. Food stylist and recipe 

developer Dianne Bibby will share 

the essence of good food, there’ll 

be inspiration from the beauty 

brand Origins Skin Care, and ending 

off sweet but strong are the Bean 

There Coffee team. PLUS leave with 

gorgeous gifts in hand. May 5 from 

noon until 4pm. Amuse Bouche at 

Fairlawns Boutique Hotel. Tickets 

from quicket.co.za, R980 per person. 

May is filled with great tributes and glam 

affairs. And then there’s Mothers’ Day! 

04 

Bonding over blooms 

A lovely (albeit a little early in 

the month) mum-and-daughter 

outing, a girls day out, and a great 

bridesmaids get together. An 

intimate flower arranging 

course - all beautiful flowers 

and high teas, where you can 

bond, have some fun, and learn 

to arrange flowers 

for any occasion ... from 

selecting the correct colours 

and vessels to creating 

beautiful bouquets and table 

arrangements. It’s a handson 

event ... so while Kate from 

Bloomfield Bespoke will first 

make arrangements, you will 

then, under her guidance, all 

make your own, which 

you’ll take home with you. 

There’ll also be table styling 

and inspiration and a super high tea. 

It’s in Hyde Park on Thursday May 4 

from 9.30am, costs R1900 a person, which 

includes a full day tutorial, notes to take home, 

beautiful flowers and arrangements to take home, 

as well as high tea and refreshments. There are 

only 20 spots available, so early booking is advised 

via enquiries@bloomfieldbespoke.com. Should you 

wish to book a private flower arranging workshop 

party, pop them an email and they’ll put together 

something specially for you. 

04 Get It Magazine May 23

06 

Artist William Kentridge 

commemorates the millions of 

Africans who fought in and lost their lives 

in the First World War in The Head & the 

Load. Through music, dance, projections 

and shadow, the untold story of the 

role that Africa played in World War I will 

be revealed. Until May 6 at the Nelson 

Mandela Theatre. Tickets R250 to R600 

from webtickets.co.za 

09 

You are going to want to put on 

a fabulous little number for this 

one ... The Dress Code - a stylish musical 

revue. Ever since Eve grabbed that fig leaf, 

humankind has been obsessed with what 

we wear, why we wear and how we wear it 

... join Stephanie Baartman, Lorri Strauss and 

Sharon Spiegel Wagner on the catwalk as 

they sing, talk and strut The Dress Code at 

Theatre on the Square. May 9 to 28. Tickets 

from R150 at tickets.computicket.com 

21 

Send your imagination on a 

voyage with J.R.R Tolkien’s The 

Hobbit, a story of Bilbo Baggins, a simple 

home-loving hobbit, whose life takes an 

exciting turn when he is summoned to 

prepare for a trip by the wizard Gandalf. A 

family-friendly performance with loads of 

adventure, fantasy and humor at National 

Children’s Theatre (Inspiration Theatre), 

Parktown. Until May 21. Ages seven and 

up. Tickets R140 adults, R120 children 

from quicket.co.za 

24 

01 -31 

YES. EVERY 

SINGLE DAY! 

The Pantry (which may well be 

our favourite store in Joburg) has 

just invited customers (that’s us) 

to revolutionize their croissant 

cravings with their new circular 

croissants. Available all week, with 

a new flavour introduced every 

Friday. Just go. You can thank 

us later. Cnr Keyes and Jellicoe 

avenues, Rosebank. 

Details: 010-594-5404 

Five-time Grammy award winners, 63 years in the music industry and 

a group who has performed with world music icons, including Paul 

Simon, The late Michael Jackson, Steve Wonder, The Winnans and Dolly Parton. 

Have you guessed who will be gracing us with their presence? Yip. Ladysmith 

Black Mambazo is here for a national tour celebrating its journey in the music 

industry and thanking South Africans for the love and support they have 

shown for the past six decades. The tour kick starts at Joburg Theatre from May 

24 to May 28. Tickets from R130 from webtickets.co.za Details: joburgtheatre.com 


26 

The Portuguese Festival 2023 

is here again and is promising 

loads of fun for the whole família ... 

helicopter rides, drifting, kids play 

area and the usual flea market stalls 

with popular Portuguese food, drinks 

and entertainment. Live music from 

international artist João Quintino, Joburg 

trio Mi Casa, DJ Miki plus dancers to 

liven up the crowd. R120 a ticket for 

adults and R80 for children. 26, 27 and 28 

May at the Nasrec Expo Centre. Details: 

For more info, call 060-524-3767, tickets 

available at computicket-boxoffice.com 

26 

A new art experience in Joburg 

... stroll through the gorgeous 

Shepstone Gardens and feast your 

eyes on a curated celebration of art 

from across Africa at the RMB Latitudes 

2023. The three-day event will feature 

traditional art fair booths from leading 

galleries and unique exhibition spaces 

designed by curators and artists. The 

RMB Young Artists’ Playground will 

have activities, art and workshops for 

children to explore. Prices from R200, 

kids R50. May 26 to May 28. Friday 

12pm to 7pm, Saturday 10am to 7pm, 

Sunday 10am to 5pm. Book your 

tickets through quicket.co.za Details: 

latitudesartfair.com 

On the big screen 

The beloved story of Disney’s The Little Mermaid will be on big screen 

within the month of May. Directed by filmmaker and Oscar nominee 

Rob Marshall, this film is a live-action reimagining of the studio’s 

animated musical classic. This fantasy story follows a young mermaid 

named Ariel, played by film star singer and actress Halle Bailey, with 

a thirst for adventure. She is the youngest of King Triton’s (acted as 

Javier Bardem) daughters and the most 

defiant, longing to find out more about 

the world beyond the sea and, while 

visiting the surface, falls for the dashing 

Prince Eric (acted as Jonah Hauer- 

King). While mermaids are forbidden to 

interact with humans, Ariel must follow 

her heart. She makes a deal with the 

evil sea witch, Ursula (played as twotime 

Academy Award nominee Melissa 

McCarthy), which gives her a chance 

to experience life on land but ultimately 

places her life – and her father’s crown 

– in jeopardy. Watch The Little Mermaid | 

Official Trailer on Youtube.com and catch 

the film in cinemas from May 26. Details: 

Follow @DisneyTheLittleMermaid on 

Facebook and disneylittlemermaid 

on Instagram. 

‘Oh Boy’, get ready to rock 

and roll over to The Teatro at 

Montecasino where the vastly 

popular hit Buddy: The Buddy 

Holly Story jukebox musical 

will be live on stage. Leading 

an all-South African cast is 

singer-songwriter Jethro Tait 

playing as Buddy Holly in this 

tribute musical following the 

journey of him (with his band 

The Crickets) and his rise to 

the top of the record charts, 

only to die tragically in a plane 

crash aged just 22. Also killed 

on that fateful flight were 

Ritchie Valens (La Bamba) and 

JP Richardson (The BIG Bopper). 

That date – February 3, 1959 – 

shook the world and became 

forever known as The Day the 

Music Died. It might be doom 

and gloom for them but you are 

sure to be on an unstoppable 

high. April 21 to May 28. Tickets 

range from R150 to R500 at 

webtickets.co.za 

28 


VOLUIT AFRIKAANS 

The best local music artists. Delicious food. Non-stop entertainment. 

If Afrikaans music is on your radar, then we’re speaking 

to you! VOLUIT AFRIKAANS is an exciting new 

concert that will be making its debut at Casalinga - 

one of the most iconic country estates in Muldersdrift. 

From country and contemporary to pop and rock … 

there’s sure to be something that’ll tickle your fancy! 

Fans can look forward to performances by top 

performers ... We’re talking goosebumps galore, foot 

stomping and singing at the top of your lungs! 

The fest will boast food line-ups just as good as the 

musical ones, going far beyond the regular fare of 

hot dogs and chips. And, there will even be a little 

something for those with a thirst … a variety of mouthwatering 

farm wines! 

You’ll probably want to put on your best festival outfit 

and warm up your radio voice ... both KYKnet and 

Jacaranda FM will be on board to support the initiative. 

VOLUIT AFRIKAANS 2023 is on Saturday, June 3 at 

Casalinga Country Estate from 10.30am. Tickets are 

available from R290 a person and R1000 for the VIP 

experience (Entrance to VIP area in the iconic Casalinga 

Restaurant and Garden, separate parking and shuttle, 

separate seating area for concert with refreshments, 

harvest food table, limited free wine and drinks, 

meet and greet selected artists, even a separate WC!) 

Book on ticketpros.co.za. 

VOLUIT AFRIKAANS is going to rock! 

ADVERTORIAL 

The line-up: 

12pm – Appel: Over the past decade, Appel aka Christoph 

Kotze has firmly established himself in the South African music 

industry. This famous songwriter is responsible for some of the 

biggest hits in Afrikaans music history. 

12.45pm – Andriëtte: After several hit albums, the velvet-voiced 

Andriëtte Norman has become one of the most popular local 

artists. Listen out for Sewe Oseane ... chills! 

1.30pm – Corlea: This talented artist was named as one of the 

‘Voices of the New Generation’. Hoor Jy My Stem, As Ek Sing and 

Swart Koffie are only a few of the hits that contributed to Corlea’s 

prominent presence in the local music industry. 

2pm – Refentse: Singer and songwriter Refentse Morake brings 

an African flavour to the Afrikaans pop music scene. His warm 

voice accompanied with the strains of the harmonica, some 

pop-hooks and the guitar are just some of the sounds that make 

up the wonderful sound of his music. 

3pm – Demi Lee Moore: The vibrant, versatile and alluring Demi 

Lee Moore will be performing some well-known original songs 

that are sure to bring the feel-good vibe to the stage. 

4pm – Bok van Blerk: The cornerstone of Afrikaans music, Bok 

van Blerk is known for making music that hits the spot, and 

resonate with all Afrikaans music lovers. Bok’s music speaks of a 

love for his country and its people. 

5pm – Spoegwolf: You know this group’s music is more than 

just skin deep. Get ready for a thought-provoking listening 

experience. A brilliant end to what’s going to be a fabulous day!

Book club 

Romance between the pages ... and a flirty French aperitif 

When Belle’s quiet, idyllic life on the coast starts to crumble, it’s a stranger thousands 

of miles away in Italy who provides a shoulder to cry on. And so, when she’s sent 

a beautiful gift with a note signed off ‘P.S. Come to Italy!’ she decides to follow her 

heart. A palazzo in beautiful Puglia, flashy cars, a glamorous, albeit warring family 

... the Italian break wasn’t about falling in love. But under the sun-kissed olive trees, 

anything can happen. Nicky Pellegrino’s a fabulous author, and P.S. Come to Italy is 

the perfect romantic read. Orion • When the love of Margot’s life walks out on her, she 

locks herself away, leaving her three daughters to run wild. Years later, she entertains 

friends and lovers in her cottage on the Isle of Wight, refusing to ever talk of the 

painful past. But her silence is keeping each of her three daughters from finding true 

happiness. Georgina Moore’s debut novel, The Garnett Girls, asks whether children 

can ever be free of the mistakes of their parents. HQ 

Book club just got fancy 

It’s pronounced lee-LAY. It’s not new - it was created by brothers Paul and 

Raymond Lillet in the village of Pondesac, in the heart of France’s famous winemaking 

Bordeaux region, in 1872. It’s low in sugar and alcohol. And it’ll make 

you go ooh la la! Launched in SA last month, this French wine-based aperitif is 

a brilliant rose colour and is all berries, orange blossom and grapefruit. You can 

drink it straight up on its own as a chilled aperitif – a drink to open the stomach 

before a meal – as the French prefer to do. Or try it in a signature Lillet Rosé 

Tonic cocktail ... pour 50ml Lillet Rosé and 100ml of tonic water over ice in a tall 

wine glass, garnish with a wedge of lime, or with a slice of grapefruit and a sprig 

of thyme. C’est délicieux! Book club just got fancy! It’s rolling out to Norman 

Goodfellows, Solly Kramer’s, PnP, Spar, Makro, Ultra Liquors and Woolworths. 

#LilletSA #ItsProunouncedLeeLAY 


For Mothers’ Day ... tears and thrills (and our book of the month) 

Revenge, according to 18-year-old 

Maya, is best served in a teen reality 

show on national TV. Where she’ll get 

to reject her cheating ex, and meet 

the girl with whom he cheated. A 

girl who Maya befriends. But could it 

be more than just friendship? Never 

Ever Getting Back Together by 

Sophie Gonzales (queen of queer 

love stories) is all first loves and 

teenage girls and hot boys and going 

off-script! Hodder Children’s Books 

A mother gets her children ready for bed while waiting for her husband to get 

home. Little does she realise this will be the last night they’ll spend together 

as a family. The next morning, she’s accused of her husband’s murder. Fast 

forward a decade and she’s been released. And she’ll stop at nothing to clear 

her name and get her children back. The Mother by TM Logan is as thrilling 

as his previous titles ... if you haven’t yet read him, you’re missing out. Bonnier • 

The last thing Anna needs is a baby. Abandoned, adopted and living hand to 

mouth, she never dreamt of having a real family. But when she meets her birth 

mother, everything changes - because the same day, she learns she’s going to 

be a mother too. Marlene is eccentric, generous with her considerable fortune 

and overjoyed to become a grandmother. In Mother’s Day by Abigail Burdess, 

Anna is living the dream. But is it her dream, or someone else’s? Now she will 

have to decide what she’s willing to sacrifice for a real family, her future, her 

freedom, even her unborn child. Headline 

It’s simply not a romantic round-up 

without Katie Fforde ... One Enchanted 

Evening, set in 1964 in a small Dorset 

Hotel, is all temperamental chefs and 

sparks flying and recipes for disaster, 

and love! Penguin, from Exclusive Books 

Take a menopausal mum. Add a 

sixteen-year-old with secrets. 

Throw in an indiscretion or two 

and then keep adding 

heart breaking hit after hit after hit. 

Amazing Grace Adams is just that. 

It’s a one-sitting read (you won’t be 

able to put this one down) and is, 

spoiler alert, a complete tear-jerker. 

Book of the month! Michael Joseph 

All from Exclusive Books 

Compiled by: KYM ARGO 


Wish list 

With its Goldilocks weather (not too hot, not too cold) 

and special celebratory days (we’re talking to you, mum), 

May really is marvellous 

We. Are. Obsessed. 

Realistic petals, leaves 

and stems inspired by roses, 

snapdragons, poppies, daisies 

... this LEGO Flower Bouquet 

model building kit is genius. 

The 756 pieces - many of 

which are made from 

a plant-based plastic, 

produced using sustainably 

sourced sugarcane - include 

adjustable stems and petals that 

are positionable, so you can design 

different arrangements to suit different 

rooms and vase sizes. It’s not just a 

flower arrangement ... it’s hours of fabulous 

creative fun. Part of the LEGO Botanical 

Collection for adults, the kit costs R999 from 

greatyellowbrick.co.za, and it’s right at the 

top of our wish list this May. 

We’re going to be honest. We like our wine. But that’s not to say we don’t like to be 

considerate with our intake. So we’re massive fans of drinking light. We’re also suckers 

for pretty packaging. So this Robertson range is ticking all the right boxes. Full of flavour 

(you may be trading calories and alcohol content, but you aren’t trading taste), the 

Robertson Winery Cultivar Light range has a bright, floral packaging and includes a 

Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinotage Rose and Merlot. You’ll find it at your local wine 

store for between R65 and R75 a bottle, so really light on your pocket, too. Pop over to 

our website to find out why you should be changing over to a lighter wine. 


Tea in the Woods 

Our top spot of the month. This gorgeous Tea in the 

Woods venue at the always lovely Fairlawns Boutique Hotel 

and Spa is inspired by the themes and colours of European 

tea rooms, but with a South African twist. So think Ardmore 

Design fabric upholstery and table linen, with touches 

of Jenna Clifford, and an exceptional, specially-designed 

wallpaper featuring a Birchwood forest which also ties in 

with the gorgeous gardens and rolling lawns of the hotel. 

With a backdrop sound of the fountain, the morning and 

afternoon tea menus, created by Executive Chef Gareth 

Jordaan and Head Pastry Chef Christopher Berg, have 

everything you want from a proper tea ... cucumber and 

cream cheese sandwiches, smoked salmon and chive 

bagels, buttermilk scones, dark chocolate and raspberry 

torte. A collaboration with Terres d’Afrique sees a collection 

of more than a dozen loose-teas from Morocco, Japan, 

Africa and South Africa. And if you prefer something a little 

more celebratory with your afternoon tea, you can opt for 

Champagne or South African sparkling wine, which has 

been carefully chosen to harmonise with most palates. 

You could make your day more exciting by adding tea 

cocktails especially designed by a mixologist. We can’t think 

of better spot to have a bridal shower, and baby shower, or 

take mum for a MD treat. Morning teas cost R320 a person, 

afternoon teas R425, and booking is essential. Fairlawns 

Boutique Hotel and Spa, 1 Alma Road, Morningside, 

Sandton. Details: fairlawns.co.za or 011-808-7300. 



Vanessa Matsena 

Kea Boya, Xoli Zondo 

Thando Naves, Itu Kubheka 

Busisiwe Mbinzwa, Olwethu Leshabane 

Find your 

moment 

What a scent-sational time we spent 

finding our moment at the Elizabeth 

Arden White Tea EDP fragrance 

launch. A new scent of well-being, 

one of a collection that celebrates the 

pleasure of a life finely crafted, and 

discovering the simple joy of defining 

a moment for yourself which is exactly 

what we did. An afternoon of pure 

bliss ... escaping to a sound bar with 

the sweet sounds of singing bowls 

playing, breathing deeply with intent, 

connecting over a delicious lunch and 

leaving with a lasting impression of 

the crisp vibrant floral Elizabeth Arden 

White Tea scent. 

Details: elizabetharden.co.za

Melissa Ndlovu, Gerry Cupido 

Zandile Mbambo 

Nokubonga Thusi 

Jese Lillienfeldt-Hartman, 

Monica van der Walt, 

Leandri de Kock 

Michaela Naidoo, Lusanda Bonani 

Thandi Thamage 

Compiled by: MEGAN BRETT 

SOCIALLY ACCEPTABLE 

Order your groceries via Whatsapp! 

Bryanston 071 146 9151 Kyalami 066 237 1640

Do what you can 

Robyn Davie did ... and so well! 

Text: Lisa Witepski • Photo: ROBYN DAVIE CREATIVE STUDIO. 

Ever heard the saying, “Do what 

you can with what you have, 

right now?” Full-time CEO, 

company founder and creative 

director Robyn Davie has a 

talent for doing just that – and 

it’s taken her from being an art director 

and wardrobe stylist to heading up the 

Robyn Davie Creative Studio. 

Robyn has been mad about creativity 

since she can remember – even before 

she started working in the film industry, 

she made handbags and jewellery. 

That’s not surprising, considering 

she comes from a family that places 

enormous value on ‘making’, from 

baking to fashion design. “We always 

used to say that if you have to plan a 

wedding quickly, you should call us – 

we can do it all,” she laughs. 

Including photography, as it turns 

out – although Robyn only discovered 

her talent behind the lens by accident. 

“I was living in Los Angeles when 

a friend asked me to take some 

headshots. Although I’d always loved 

taking pictures, it was the first time 

someone had paid me to do it,” she 

recalls. Looking at those pictures 

now makes her cringe: Everything 

was ‘wrong’, from the lighting to the 

gimmicky techniques that were so 

typical of the time. 

But while the final product may not 

have screamed Annie Liebowitz, it 

certainly planted the seed. “It was easy 


to fall in love with photography in LA: 

The people are beautiful, the light is 

beautiful,” she says. She learnt as much 

as she could, watching YouTube videos, 

trying (and failing), and taking on board 

criticism from unhappy clients. 

She returned to South Africa two years 

later, with a great many shoots under 

her belt – and an idea of how she could 

do even more. A number of friends 

and cousins had started their families 

in her absence, she says, and although 

she hadn’t tried her hand at family 

photography before, she didn’t see 

why she couldn’t start. Johannesburg, 

as a family-friendly city, was the ideal 

environment for her to start her 

new venture, and her client base 

grew quickly. 

But, while working 16 hours every day 

of the week, Robyn realised that she 

had reached a financial ceiling. “That 

was a pretty sad epiphany, given I was 

only 26 at the time,” she says – which is 

how the idea of taking on an associate 

photographer was born. 

Today, Robyn’s network of associate 

photographers is 15 members strong. 

Members are chosen for their energy 

- they have to be collaborative, intuitive, 

go-getters. And, above all, they must 

be female. “When I first arrived back 

in South Africa, I realised how male 

dominated this industry is. There is so 

much chauvinism. I have attended 

so many events where the male 

photographers create an uncomfortable 

atmosphere for women, and I wanted 

to change that. From the beginning, 

my aim was to create a safe space 

for women, where we’re a team that 

support each other.” 

Yes, she says, she’s often asked if working 

with so many women isn’t a little, well, 

intense? “Absolutely not.” 

What’s more, the team has shown 

on more than one occasion just how 

committed to each other they are. In 

2020, for instance, the Robyn Davie 

Creative Studio was poised to take its 

first step into Cape Town – and then, 

as the pandemic drew closer to South 

African shores, Robyn decided to cancel 

all scheduled bookings, until every 

source of revenue had disappeared. 

“I was terrified,” she admits. “But then 

I thought, this team must have skills 

besides photography. We may as well 

put them to use, rather than sitting at 

home in our PJs.” That’s how the studio’s 

graphic design arm got started. It 

not only stopped revenue drying up 

completely; it also allowed the team to 

tap into an international client base. 

Fynn Studio, the latest offering, came 

about in a similarly serendipitous 

manner. When the natural light studio 

the photographic team usually used 

became a Covid victim, Robyn spotted a 

gap in the market. This solved one of the 

key challenges the team was facing at 

the time: Although lockdown had been 

lifted and they were finally allowed to 

shoot once more, most locations – from 

parks to restaurants – were still reticent 

about allowing a crew on site. 

Like Robyn’s business itself, Fyn Studio 

has grown beyond initial expectations. 

It’s no longer simply a venue for product 

shoots, family sessions, studio hire or 

head shots: “I’d like to think it serves a 

higher purpose,” Robyn says. 

Since realising the blow that mental 

health has taken since the pandemic, 

Robyn Davie Creative Studio has 

made a foray into wellness. “I was really 

worried about the emotional toll of all 

we’ve been through – but, as much as 

I would like to do something, I’m not a 

psychologist or a counsellor. I don’t have 

those skills – but I do have a fantastic 

venue that can be used to host yoga 

classes, talks and weekend retreats.” The 

studio has recently started targeting 

corporate wellness, too, offering 

discounts for facilitators and assisting in 

the creation or a programme that aims 

to help participants deal with stress. 

There’s an educational aspect 

to the business, too: Robyn has 

recently released a series of online 

courses, aiming to bolster creatives’ 

business skills. 

So, what’s next for this ever-evolving 

business? “I’ve never had a plan,” Robyn 

confesses. “Everything has just kind of 

fallen into place. I know that makes it 

sound easy, but it hasn’t been. I’ve just 

been able to identify gaps and then 

find a way to service them.” Robyn says 

that one way to do this is by letting 

herself become bored, something she 

tries to do regularly by stepping away 

from her routine. This ‘brain downtime’ 

is how she’s come up with some of her 

best ideas. “But, much as I love starting 

new businesses, consolidating is just as 

important. Right now, the focus is on 

making sure that everything we do, we 

do to the best of our ability.” 

How to take the 

perfect headshot 

Robyn says that loads of 

people enter the studio 

feeling a little nervous. After 

all, not everyone likes to 

have their photo taken. The 

best way to get over those 

nerves? “A little preparation 

is useful,” Robyn says. “Think 

about why you’re having 

the headshot taken and 

what message it needs 

to convey. We spend a lot 

of time chatting to our 

clients to find out what 

they like, whether they’re 

more creative or analytical, 

even what colours they 

like.” To make sure you look 

your best for the shot, start 

upping your water intake a 

week or so beforehand, and 

consider going for a facial 

to get that glow. And now? 

“Just have fun!” 

Details: Robyndavie.com, 

fynn-studio.com 


Just Jo 

There’s a space on your bookshelf, and it’s just perfect for Jo Watson’s 

latest novel, What Happens on Holiday. Here’s the international 

bestselling author’s last word on writing. 

Text: Lisa Witepski • Photo: MEGAN BRETT. 

Jo Watson remembers the first time 

she thought there may, possibly, be 

a writer lurking inside her. “Our high 

school teacher had asked us to write 

a movie review, no doubt expecting a 

glowing report that included the many 

lessons we had learnt from the film. 

I had hated it, though, so the piece I 

handed in was absolutely scathing.” 

Rather than take her to task for her 

contrary view, Jo’s teacher praised her 

satirical style, suggesting that if she 

work at the craft she may one day 

become a wordsmith. 

And that’s exactly what she did. By 

2013, when she penned her first book, 

Burning Moon, she had experimented 

(successfully) with just about every 

other form of writing, from TV soaps to 

radio dramas, scripts, plays and ads. 

The book took her by surprise, 

however. “I hadn’t actually planned 

to write a book, let alone a romance 

– a genre I don’t often read,” she 

confesses. Her first step to becoming 

an international bestselling author 

(she has written 14 books in total, 

translated into seven languages with 

sales topping well over 600 000) 

started with frustration: Frustration at 

unreasonable client demands on her 

‘pen for hire’ business, and frustration at 

the fact that many South African books 

seem to be based on heavy themes. “I 

wanted to write something that was 

funny for funny’s sake,” she explains – 

so, in a move that she claims betrays 

her naiveté around the publishing 

industry and the writing process 

itself, she Googled, “How to be an 

international writer”. One of the results 

that came up showed a competition 

for romance writers hosted on 

Wattpad, which Jo describes as “a social 

media platform for writers”. 

Undeterred by the deadline (just 

three weeks away), or the fact that she 

had never written a book before, Jo 

started fleshing out her story about 

a girl who had been jilted at the altar 

but decided to take her honeymoon, 

alone. “Actually, I think that my 

complete lack of experience was 

an advantage,” she muses. “I had no 

expectations. I was writing this book 

simply to write it, so I didn’t get too 

technical and I didn’t overthink things 

like plot and characters – which I 

probably would have if this wasn’t my 

first attempt.” 

I love the English 

language. I love 

writing sentences 

over and over until 

they sound exactly 

as I want them to. 

The first chapter she posted on 

Wattpad gained 22 views – a number 

which both surprised and delighted 

her. Imagine, then, how stunned she 

was when that figure had climbed 

to more than 200 000 just a few 

weeks later. By the end of the year, 

Jo’s readership had climbed into the 

millions – and she was named winner 

of the competition. 

“It was weird!” she laughs. But, 

since her first foray had proved so 

successful, she decided to continue 

on the trajectory. “Everyone was 

talking about how important it was 

to get an agent. I didn’t even know 

what an agent did, but I Googled 

“best agents”, sent off a few mails, and 

had an agent just a few days later.” 

Jo’s “snowball” ride has recently 

culminated in signing a four-book 

deal with Headline Eternal; the 

first of which, What Happens on 

Vacation, was recently released. 

It’s an effervescent romcom that’s 

vintage Jo Watson, with her signature 

laughs, dramatic buildup and careful 

attention to crafting sentences that 

make readers go “I know exactly how 

that feels!” 

Jo admits that, as a writer, this is 

very important to her. “I love the 

English language. I love writing 

sentences over and over until they 

sound exactly as I want them to. Just 

because this is a book written to help 

people escape and give them a bit of 

enjoyment doesn’t mean it can’t be 

beautifully written.” As for the highs 

and lows, the sighs and sentiment – 

Jo says that although her bookshelf 

doesn’t include all that many 

romance books, the genre comes 

easily to her: “After writing for soapies, 

I have a handle on the yearning, the 

wishing; the relationships that hover 

on the brink of ‘will they, won’t they’.” 

She’s very conscious of how her 

characters’ follies affect her readers. 

“This genre has been so maligned, but 

although it’s not literary fiction, there is 

definitely a space for it – there’s space 

for anything that makes people happy.” 

This was proved to her when, during 

the Covid-19 pandemic, she received 

floods of letters from people telling her 

how her books had given them a light 

during a particularly dark time. 


While her fans wait for her next 

book (which is currently in the 

final editing stages), Jo is about to 

get going on another novel. Don’t 

picture her moodily staring into 

space, waiting for inspiration to 

strike, though: She has a very precise, 

almost mathematical approach to 

writing. “I work out how many words 

I need to write each day, according 

to the length of the book. Then, I 

walk outside to my office (which 

is a disgusting mess, strewn with 

everything from energy drink bottles 

to crusty plates) and I just get on 

with it.” 

Not that she’d have it any other 

way. “Even if I didn’t have a book to 

deliver, I’d still look for something 

to write. I get anxious when I’m not 

writing. It’s something I have to do 

to make sense of this world.” 

What Jo’s reading 

South Africa’s queen of romcoms has a quiet 

obsession with literature. “There are so many 

truly amazing books in this world and I want to 

read them all,” she says. Her tastes are decidedly 

eclectic, although they share in common 

interesting characters and beautiful writing – all 

of which trump plot when Jo chooses a read. 

Here are some of her top picks: 

• Any Man by Amber Tamblyn • My Dark Vanessa 

by Kate Elizabeth Russell • The Book of Longing 

by Sue Monk-Kidd • Milk Fed by Melissa Broder 

• Ghosts by Dolly Alderton • Cleopatra and 

Frankenstein by Coco Mellors “which I stayed up 

allllll night reading.” 

An office quiz night with an allexpenses-paid 

trip to Zanzibar 

up for grabs. Two colleagues who 

share a desk but drive each other to 

distraction. A prize that needs to be 

shared. Not ideal ... but maybe the 

holiday from hell could turn out to 

be the vacation dreams are made 

of. What Happens On Vacation by 

Jo Watson ... light, romantic, hugely 

enjoyable. Headline 


PROMOTION 

Groves 

& 

Vineyards 

A highlight on the social calendar ... 

the increasingly famous Groves and Vineyards Festival 

is returning to Casalinga Restaurant for its 12th year. 

This event is, quite rightly, one of the most anticipated country festivals, 

and this year the event promises to be as outstanding as ever. 

You’ll be treated to a fab selection of fine wines from 45 top wine estates. 

There’ll also be bubbles, beer and gin, who’ll rub delicious shoulders with 

olives, cheese and artisanal foods. Add to that live music from some of 

South Africa’s top bands, all in a setting that rivals the best in Joburg, 

and you’ve a date you simply can’t miss.

PROMOTION 

Enjoy the VIP experience 

Make a sensationally special day of it ... book the VIP experience. 

There’ll be special parking set aside, a magnificent harvest table 

available throughout the day, as well as special exclusive wine 

tastings. You’ll also have dedicated seating in the festival area to 

see your favourite bands play ... and there may well be an extra 

surprise or two on the day, too. There’ll be no children under 18 

years allowed in this VIP area. 

Bring the children ... it’s a family affair 

The festival, in the beautiful Muldersdrift countryside, 

provides a relaxed setting where the whole family can 

come and enjoy the sunshine before the winter chill sets 

in. Children younger than three are free and more than 

welcome. There’ll be a supervised area for them to play 

while parents leisurely enjoy all the festival has to offer. 

Join the Get It team ... 

we’re giving away tickets 

We’ll be there over the weekend (we love a great 

event) ... and we’ve tickets to give away to some of 

our favourite readers (that’s you). To win a pair of VIP 

tickets or one of 10 pairs of standard tickets, simply pop 

over to @getitnationalmagazines on Instagram, find 

the groves&vineyards post and follow the prompts. 

Ends May 10.

Diarise ... 

Saturday May 27 & Sunday May 28 

10.30am to 6pm 

Book ... at casalinga.co.za 

Tickets cost R350 a person 

(includes a tasting glass for over 18s) 

R120 for children 4 to 17 

Children 3 and younger free 

VIP tickets R1000 

See you there ... 

Casalinga Restaurant 

Rocky Ridge Road, Muldersdrift 

(opposite Garden World Nursery) 

GPS Co-Ordinates: S 26 02.68 E 27 52.36 

Connect 

Keep your eye on @casaslingarestaurant 

on Facebook and Instagram 

for more info and regular updates

SWEET DREAMS 

The land of nod never came so quickly ... 

or looked this good! 

If you have trouble nodding off, these 

Biomedcan CBD Sleep sleeping pills 

are worth a try. With a combo of herbs 

and minerals as well as CBD (natural 

compounds of Hemp extract ), you may 

find you fall asleep faster and have a 

deeper natural sleeping pattern. One half 

an hour before bedtime worked for us. 

R489.95 from biomedcan.co.za 

Fluffiest, comfiest slippers, 

R279 from H&M at superbalist.com 

Light a SKNLOGIC Body Candle , wait 

for a melted pool to form, then use the 

oil on cuticles, elbows, heels and any dry 

areas. Moisturising and soothing (great for 

eczema), there’s one with fig extract and 

another with pineapple extract. 

R320 from sknlogic.com 

Wind down with a soak in a warm 

bath. Earthsap Milk and Honey Bath 

Soak, a blend of sea salt with milk 

and honey, provides a natural source 

of vitamins to the skin and leaves it 

smooth, soft and nourished. Lovely 

scent, too. Really affordable at R82,25 

for a big 450ml tub from Wellness 

Warehouse, Spar, Pick n Pay and 

faithful-to-nature.co.za 

This SOiL Ultrasonic Aroma Diffuser disperses a fine mist of your favourite 

SOiL essential oils into the air. it’s low on energy, has multiple timing and 

light settings and automatically stops when water levels are too low. R600. At 

bedtime, use with SOiL Sleep Blend - a blend of lavender, bergamot, sweet 

marjoram and vetiver, which offer a sedative effect. Besides the diffuser you 

can use this in an oil burner, inhaler or for topical application when blended 

with a carrier oil. R150. And if the stress levels are high, apply this new SOiL De- 

Stress Remedy Roller to pulse points and let the blend of grapefruit, clary sage, 

cypress, cedarwood, do their magical, calming thing. R50. All from Dis-Chem, 

Wellness Warehouse and soil.co.za 


This is going to be very difficult 

to keep as only sleepwear or 

loungewear! Designed (and 

intended) to go further than your 

bedroom, or even your house, 

it moves from nightie to resort 

wear. Generous, flattering and 

with a few choices ... pre-washed 

linen or cotton anglaise, crisp 

white, midnight black or this 

hazel brown, short or long, and 

one free size with adjustable 

straps, so you can wear if you’re 

an XXS or an XXL. R1000 from 

saintvieve.co.za 


May 23 Get It Magazine 23

CHILL BEATERS 

Whether you love to cook from scratch, prefer easy-to-prepare meals or take the 

easyway out and opt for ready meals, we’ve got you covered this month ... a trio of 

meals guaranteed to win over family and friends ... and beat the Winter chill! 

A bag crammed 

with deliciousness 

... and with the SPAR 

stamp of approval! 

The latest SPAR MasterChef deal is one you don’t want to miss. 

An exceptional 24cm cast iron casserole with lid, a hand 

blender and a choice of silver or gold starter cutlery sets. 

Collect the stamps, save, and then show off your new buys 

at your next dinner party.

Dinner party steak 

PROMOTION 

You’ve got guests you want to impress. When they arrive, 

serve them a glass of wine, a bowl of crisps and some 

SPAR green olives (we fancy the olives stuffed with hot 

chilli paste). That’ll keep them happy while you cook. 

You don’t need us to tell you how to cook steak. Oil 

the steak not the pan, season well and pan fry on high 

heat. But you knew that, yes? Obviously, start off with an 

excellent piece of meat ... we bought The SPAR Steak 

Co. fillet medallions, and cooked them rare (each to his 

own, but rare or medium rare really is the most delicious). 

Once you’ve taken the steak out of the pan, let it rest 

for 10 minutes. Turn down the heat and drop in a good 

knob of butter and a shake of Worstershire sauce or a 

tot of sherry into the pan, bubble away until reduced 

by half. Plate your steak, pour over the butter-sherry sauce, 

and then pile generously with wild rocket and shavings of 

Parmigiano Reggiano. Serve this with some oven-roasted 

tomatoes or potato wedges ... delish! 

Peas please 

On a chilly evening, not much beats a warming 

bowl of soup, and this month we’re thinking pea. 

Now, you can take it easy and heat up a tin of 

SPAR Pea Soup .... then fancy it up by adding 

a swirl of cream, a scattering of microwave 

heated petit pois, even some crispy bacon. 

You could also make this pea and ham soup 

... a really quick and easy version. In your new 

MasterChef 24cm cast iron casserole. Heat 

a tablespoon each of olive oil and butter. 

Add one cup of finely chopped carrots 

and one chopped onion. Stir until the 

onions are cooked but not browned 

- five minutes should do it. Add a 

large clove of garlic, peeled and 

minced, cook for two minutes, 

and then add three cups of 

chicken stock. Cook a small 

packet of SPAR frozen Petit 

Pois in the microwave 

or in water on the stove 

until hot, then drain and add them to the pot. 

Season with salt, black pepper and dried or fresh 

thyme leaves. Bring to the boil, reduce to simmer 

and leave for five minutes, or until carrots are 

completely cooked. Using a hand blender (bought 

at discount with your SPAR MasterChef offer), blend 

the soup until the peas are mushy. Add a cup of finely 

chopped ham or gammon. Ladle into warmed dishes, 

add a swirl of cream if you like, and serve piping hot with a 

SPAR Bakery roll filled with grated cheese. 

Can’t cook, won’t cook. The SPAR Quick Cuisine range really is 

brilliant. We fancy this Meatballs Marinara ... perfect for a quick 

dinner-for-one on a cold evening. Just add a glass of red wine 

and godere (that’s enjoy in Italian!). 

You’re going to use your MasterChef 

cast iron casserole 

all Winter!

ONE-POT HEALTHY 

You know when, every now and 

then, you open a cookbook and it 

just works for you. One-Pot Healthy 

is one of those books. Boasting easy, 

healthy meals in one pot, it’s just page 

after delicious page with a few - in 

most cases half a dozen - ingredients, 

and a short, can’t-mess-it-up method. 

Prep time is, as a rule, five minutes, 

with a few dishes needing a little extra 

chopping so add on an extra ten 

minutes tops, and cooking time (and 

we use the term cooking fairly lightly 

... basically popping onto the heat 

and leaving to do it’s thing) for five 

minutes to maybe half an hour. Dishes 

for week nights (veggie bolognese, 

Autumn casserole, chicken casserole 

with carrots and cabbage) and parties 

with friends (mussel casserole, fresh 

tuna with veggies, rice noodles with 

prawns, an impressive aubergine 

and fig casserole). Loads of dishes 

for vegetarians, as well as breakfast 

options (tomato and herb omelette), 

and quick desserts (pear, pineapple, 

apple and banana parcels ... yum). If 

you’re time-poor, stuck in a food rut, 

but want a meal that makes you feel 

good or simply hate doing the dishes, 

Sabrina Fauda-Rôle’s book is for you. 

We’re going to use this book over 

and over again ... we bet you do too. 

Hardie Grant, R315 

One pot. Fifteen minutes. Dinner is served! 

SPAGHETTI WITH TOMATOES 

Put all the ingredients in the 

casserole dish and cook over 

a medium heat for about 15 

minutes, stirring regularly. Serve 

with freshly snipped basil. 

Serves 4 

250 g wholewheat spaghetti 

500 g cherry tomatoes, halved 

20 basil leaves 

1 onion, thinly sliced 

1 teaspoon chilli purée (paste) 

1 garlic clove, thinly sliced 

1 teaspoon coarse salt 

2 pinches of freshly ground 

black pepper 

600 ml water 

26 cm casserole dish 

(Dutch oven) 

SPINACH VELOUTE 


500 g fresh spinach, washed 


2 vegetable stock cubes 

100 g low-fat cream cheese 

400 ml water 

24 cm casserole dish 

(Dutch oven) 

Put all the ingredients in the 

casserole dish and cook over a 

medium heat for 15 minutes. 

Blend until smooth. Serve hot. 

Serves 4 


ASPARAGUS VELOUTE 

500 g asparagus 

750 ml almond milk 


2 sprigs of mint, leaves picked 

2 celery stalks, leaves picked 

and stalks chopped 

1 vegetable stock cube 

24 cm saucepan 

Cut off the tough bottom part 

of the asparagus. Put all the 

ingredients in the saucepan 

and cook over a medium heat 

for 15 minutes. Blend until 

smooth. Serve with freshly 

snipped mint. Serves 4 

ONION SOUP 

1 Tbsp olive oil 

4 large onions, thinly sliced 

4 Tbsps cornflour 

1.5 l water 

2 sprigs of thyme 

1 garlic clove, chopped 

1 pinch of salt 

1 pinch of pepper 

2 slices of toasted bread 

4 sprigs of parsley, snipped 

24 cm saucepan 

Heat the olive oil in the 

saucepan, add the onions and 

cornflour. Cook for 5 minutes, 

stirring regularly. Add the 

water, thyme, garlic, salt and 

pepper and cook over a low 

heat for 30 minutes. Serve hot 

with the toasted bread cut 

into croutons and the snipped 

parsley. Serves 4 

One-Pot Healthy by Sabrina 

Fauda-Rôle. Hardie Grant, R315 


ADVERTORIAL 

MILK – WHAT A WINNER! 

Here’s what you should know to choose the best milk option for everyone in your family 

Cow’s milk is a versatile and convenient source of important nutrients for the 

whole family. It contains a unique combination of valuable nutrients, of which 

some are typically lacking in many South Africans’ diets. These include calcium, 

potassium and vitamin A. Milk is also an affordable source of good-quality 

protein, and its overall health benefit stems from more than just the sum of its 

individual nutrients. What’s more is that milk is ready to be enjoyed just as it is or 

as a base in other dishes and helps to keep you feeling fuller for longer. 

Your milk choices 

The difference between full-cream, lowfat 

and fat-free milk is the amount of 

fat per serving, its energy (kJ) value and 

the vitamin A content. When the fat of 

milk is removed, the fat-soluble vitamin 

A is lost. Children, elderly and immune 

compromised people should therefore 

rather use full-cream milk, while people 

with diabetes or who are overweight 

should use low-fat or fat-free milk. 

250 ml 

Full-cream milk - ≤8.5g fat and 640kJ 

Low-fat milk - ≤3.75g fat and 518kJ 

Fat-free milk - ≤1,25g fat and 362kJ 

Put healthy options in your basket 

It does not matter if you buy fresh, pasteurised milk 

or long-life milk. It is equally nutritious. However, 

if you buy powdered milk, make sure that it’s 

real cow’s milk. Look at your food label and more 

specifically the ingredients list. The list of ingredients will be short and the first item 

will always be full-cream or fat-free (cow’s) milk. If not, it’s not real milk. 

Don’t be fooled: Coffee creamer is not cow’s milk! Coffee creamer is made from 

unhealthy plant fats and contains very little protein (0.1%) and no calcium or any 

of the other important nutrients of milk. Coffee creamer is not a substitute for milk 

and can never replace milk or formula milk in the diet of children or babies. 

Take your pick: You’ll get the same unique combination of nutrients and the taste 

you love whichever milk option you choose! 

For more information, visit www.rediscoverdairy.co.za 

or follow rediscoverDAIRY on Facebook. 

An initiative by the Consumer Education Project of Milk SA 

You can also choose to buy fresh 

(pasteurised) milk or milk that keeps 

for longer, such as long-life (UHT) or 

powdered milk. It doesn’t matter which 

one you choose – each offers you all 

the goodness of cow’s milk. 

Always keep fresh milk in the fridge. 

Long-life milk can be stored in the 

cupboard until you need it, but put it 

in the fridge once it has been opened. 

Powdered milk is convenient because 

you can prepare only as much as you 

need at one time. 

Did you know? 

• It is best to store your milk in the 

back of the fridge (not the door) to 

ensure it stays fresh – even when the 

power is down. 

• Want to use milk later or worried 

about loadshedding? Simply freeze it 

in smaller containers, and then let it 

thaw in the fridge before use. A quick 

shake once thawed and it’s ready to 

drink or use in your favourite recipes.

EAT 

Good + Simple = Delicious healthy meals 

“I hope that many of these recipes will become family favourites, the kind 

that create a sense of belonging, that are shared at your family tables for 

generations to come.” Sarah Graham’s Good + Simple is, quite simply, a 

magnificent celebration of vegetables and natural, whole foods. Dishes that are 

simple to make, wholesome to eat, and massively enjoyable - even for those 

who normally scoff. Kicking off with a baker’s dozen tips on how to make the 

most of the book, and of meal times, she adds hints about including additional 

protein, and keys for helping you keep track of dishes that are vegan-friendly, 

gluten- and diary-free, for one pot dishes or those that take half an hour or less 

to make or use just five ingredients. So it’s user friendly from the first flavour 

bomb recipe (spiced granola sprinkles) to the last (sundried tomato and olive 

focaccia). In between, there’s everything from pesto and halloumi breakfast 

bagels to Friday night braaibroodjies, from weeknight burritos to lazy spinach 

and ricotta lasagne. There are sweet treats (speckled egg rocky road, anybody?) 

to a pretty little tiramisu that would hold its own at any dinner party, to lifechanging 

three-ingredient scones (flour, cream, lemonade - you’ll never make 

them any other way again). For those who have Sarah’s previous cookbooks, 

this one will make a happy addition to your kitchen bookshelf; for those 

who have yet to discover her ... a delicious (and healthy) treat ahead! Penguin 

Random House, R400 from Exclusive Books 

Grow • Cook • Heal 

This informative book by Caz 

Hildebrand isn’t a cook book. Nor a 

gardening book. But Herbarium is 

crammed with bites of jolly useful 

information about around 200 herbs 

... sweet herbs (like basil) and tart 

herbs (think sorrell and bergamot). 

Minty, oniony, bitter, herbs to eat, 

herbs to heal, and some which could 

kill (nobody touch the Monkshood). 

There are suggestions on what herbs 

should be eaten with, and how they 

can be used in oils and teas, as well 

as loads of history, and interesting 

facts about every herb from Angelica 

to Watercress. Fabulous. Thames and 

Hudson, R445 



RAKE UP 

WINTER IS NEAR 

Snip off dead flowers, clear up the leaves and plant up some extra plants in pots. 

May is making way for the colder months to come. 

Veggie of 

the month 

Baby spinach produces small, crunchy green 

leaves that are yummy in salads, or stir fries and 

even in sarmies. This quick sprouting baby spinach 

can be sown year round and in winter its best sown 

in a large seed tray that’s kept near a sunny windowsill 

or in a warm, sunny patch in the garden. Plant in 

well composted soil or in a seedling mix moistened 

with a liquid fertiliser like Margaret Roberts Organic 

Supercharger. Seed germinates within seven to 14 

days and leaves are ready for harvesting within 30 

days. Harvest early by snipping the leaves with 

scissors. Although plants will grow again it 

is easier to sow in succession every two 

weeks to ensure a constant crop. 

Details: kirchhoffs.co.za 

Text: ALICE COETZEE 

We’re planting … Capella Sangria is a compact, rounded 

petunia that fits in anywhere and everywhere that’s sunny. 

It’s a good mixer in garden beds, as an edging, massed, or 

in a hanging basket or container. The cherry red trumpetshaped 

flowers have a glowing yellow throat and cover 

the plant from top to bottom. Plants grow 30cm high and 

36cm wide, need full sun to flower well and like evenly 

moist but not soggy soil. Feed once a month with a liquid 

fertiliser to keep it in peak flowering form. Cutting off the 

dead flowers encourages it to produce more. As a bonus, 

the flowers attract butterflies, nectar seeking birds and 

bees. Details: ballstraathof.co.za 


Indoor plant of the month 

This mini tradescantia is a brand-new variety, quite different from the 

common striped or purple creeping tradescantia groundcovers. Its tiny 

pink and lime-green leaves are carried on short, tight stems and it grows 

into a dense and round plant, that is topiary-like in appearance. With its 

distinctive colours, shape and foliage, it is likely to become a trending 

indoor plant. Display it in a position that receives bright indoor light 

but not direct sun. Trim if necessary to keep it in shape. Water when the 

soil feels moderately dry, as it prefers underwatering to overwatering. 

Details: lvgplant.co.za 

Garden tasks for May 

• Rake up autumn leaves and use to mulch 

garden beds or compost them. • Water newly 

planted annuals twice a week, otherwise reduce 

watering to once a week. • Finish planting 

out winter annuals; pansies, violas, poppies, 

calendula, and primulas or sow quick-growing 

annuals like Namaqualand daisies and Virginian 

stocks. • Set out seedlings of winter veggies like 

cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli and kale as well 

as lettuce, spinach and Swiss chard. • Spring 

flowering daffodils, and other spring bulbs should 

be planted by the end of May. • Cut down cannas 

and other summer perennials that have finished 

flowering. • For a supply of herbs like thyme, 

origanum, marjoram, parsley and sage during 

winter, plant up some extra plants in pots and 

keep them in a sheltered sunny corner. 

May 23 Get It Magazine XX

Text: MELINDA SHAW • Photographer: NICOLE MOORE. Details: nicolemoorephotography.co.za • 

Make-up: MAKEUP BY RYNO, 071-688-0242. • Outfit: LARYNE JEFFERIES FASHION DESIGN • Hair: 

Tanaz Hair. Details: tanaz.net • Location: BEECHWOOD GARDENS. Details: beechwoodgardens.co.za 

LJ’s top bridal gown tips 

• How you feel in your gown is more 

important than how you think you 

will look. Don’t limit yourself to certain 

silhouettes based on your figure. A 

dress that is made for you will flatter 

you no matter the silhouette. 

• Well-made two-in-one designs 

that are constructed to look like two 

dresses (for example with an added 

skirt that is tied over the dress) give 

added value. 

• Rather than an elaborate train, pick 

an embellished veil with a classicstyle 

gown – that way you get the 

drama for the ceremony, but you 

can remove it for the reception, and 

have a dress you can dance in. More 

cost-effective too! 

• Be open to exploring different 

shades of white. Off-white or silk 

white looks more luxurious and 

photographs better than ice white. 

Adding a subtle tone of colour – dove 

grey, blush pink, champagne – really 

elevates a look. 



Designer power 

She’s South Africa’s only bridal designer who is also a record-holding 

weightlifting champ. But Laryne Jefferies likes breaking stereotypes ... 

By day she’s a highly creative fashion 

designer who makes women’s 

dreams come true with her delicate, 

bespoke bridal gowns and unique 

party dresses. But when Laryne 

Jefferies hits the gym, her ginger hair 

tied up in a no-nonsense ponytail, 

there is nothing whimsical about her 

... an athlete who drives herself to 

lift weights of 80, 100, 107kg above 

her head. 

How does one navigate such 

extremes – the feminine world of 

tulle, silk and hand-beading on the 

one hand, and the male-dominated 

world of weights and bulging 

muscles on the other? 

The 31-year-old laughs 

as she shrugs her (very 

muscular) shoulders. 

“I’m a fashion designer 

first – that is my passion. 

As a child I wanted to 

become an artist, and 

now I get to create 

garments that make 

women feel beautiful,” she says. Art 

took preference over sport when she 

was at school, and she was in her 

twenties before Crossfit first piqued 

her interest in fitness. 

Her fashion journey took off when 

an internship brought her to Joburg 

in 2013, shortly after graduating in 

fashion design at Cape Peninsula 

University of Technology. The 

internship, with designer Gert-Johan 

Coetzee, went so well that Coetzee 

offered her a full-time position and 

over the next seven years, this is 

where Laryne honed her craft and 

found her own design style. When 

Covid-19 sent people home as 

businesses closed, Laryne took the 

plunge and set out on her own, to 

finally make her dream of her own 

fashion label come true. Laryne 

Jefferies Fashion Design was born. 

It was always going to be a 

challenge to manage a business 

that trades in luxury fashion during 

a global lockdown, but Laryne 

was determined to make a go of 

it. Working from home, which was 

a cottage in Linden, she slowly 

but steadily built her clientele of 

brides, many of them based in 

Zambia. Bridesmaids who got to 

wear Laryne Jefferies at their best 

friend’s wedding will often reach out 

when they start planning their own 

wedding, sparing no distance to get 

her exquisite designs for their own 

bridal party. 

Word of mouth is my best marketing, and I am 

very grateful that I hooked into that network 

of women in their wedding stage of life 

“Word of mouth is my best 

marketing, and I am very grateful 

that I hooked into that network of 

women in their wedding stage of 

life,” says Laryne. “It is a privilege to be 

involved in someone’s big day, and 

to help her and her retinue look and 

feel their very best! The same goes 

for matric dance and party dresses 

– they are all about happiness, and 

such fun to make!” 

Laryne has since moved to a bigger 

space to accommodate a beader 

and seamstress to help her with the 

intricate handwork. Her much-loved 

mini bullterrier, Emoji, loves the new 

lawn. “Perfect for zoomies!” 

She trains, six mornings a week, 

at Movement Crew in Alberton, a 

specialist lifting gym. “If you had 

told me 10 years ago that I would 

lift weights and win medals, I would 

have called you crazy,” says Laryne. 

“But when I started lifting weights in 

Crossfit, it was like I was born for it – 

it turned out I was naturally strong, 

and my body responded really well 

to the training.” Moving from Crossfit 

to Olympic weightlifting happened 

organically, and over the past two 

years Laryne has put in the hard 

work and the daily training to slowly 

increase her strength. 

The dedication has paid off as she 

holds the South African records in 

her weight category, and is currently 

training to represent South Africa 

at the 2023 Senior 

African Weightlifting 

Championships, 

taking place in Tunisia 

this May. At the 2022 

Championships, held 

in Egypt, she won 

a silver and three 

bronze medals. 

“I am hoping to 

build on last year’s achievement 

and have worked really hard for 

it,” she says. However, funding the 

trip is an added challenge, because 

Weightlifting SA only contributes 

a portion of what is needed. 

Laryne has started a crowdfunding 

campaign to raise the money, and 

she is pragmatic about the huge 

honour to wear the green and gold 

on the international stage. “I really 

love weightlifting, but ultimately it 

is a hobby and I don’t have a golden 

goose laying eggs to fund it!” 

Whatever happens with the funding, 

she will get up tomorrow at 4:30 

to get in her training session, she 

says. First, though, she has a dress to 

finish for a special client. 

Details: Follow @larynejefferiesfashion 

and @larynejefferies on Instagram 


Start using SKNLOGIC 

Boosters a month 

before your big 

day ... highly 

concentrated, 

there’s a C15 

Booster with 

pure vitamin 

C and a B10 

Booster 

which 

dramatically 

improves 

uneven skin 

tone and refines 

the appearance of 

pore size, skin texture 

and fine lines. R355 and 

R215 from sknlogic.com 

A new, deeper concentrated 

version of the exquisite 

Elizabeth Arden 

White Tea - this Eau de 

Parfum, with upcycled 

rose water and tonka 

bean, gives a sense of wellbeing. 

R1185 • Elizabeth 

Arden Lip Color Lipstick 

in Nude Matte Blush - highimpact 

colour meets creamy 

comfort and 

conditioning 

care, R470. 

Sensational scent options for the bride 

... Oscar de la Renta Bella Rosa and 

Oscar de la Renta Bella Essence eau de 

parfums. From R1135 from Dis-Chem. 

Daily peel for a rosy glow - 

Elizabeth Arden Visible 

Brightening Cicaglow 

Concentrate, R1045 

Complied by: KYM ARGO. • Photo: MEGAN BRETT 

Could a bride wear prettier earrings? 

We think not. Handmade bespoke earrings 

from the Bahamas. R1500. 

Details: enquiries@bloomfieldbespoke.com 

Kiss the bride .. Avon Hydramatic Matte Lipstick - glides 

on and offers loads of hydration. R129 from my.avon 

• Highlight of the day ... Revlon SkinLights Prismatic 

Highlighter in Twighlight Gleam ... soft texture, flattering, 

pure glow without the glitter. R199.95. 



xxxx 

xxxx xxxx 

Delicate rose and magnolia petals, 

blackcurrant leaves and sparkling 

bergamot, cashmere wood and 

musk ... Berdoues Rose Eau de 

Cologne is soft and intensely 

feminine. R305 from Truworths 

Igentia sum rerferr orumqua tumquatur, 

eau eiuntii de parfum sciatis and an eau es de or orleanscosmetics.co.za • This 

Oscar de la Renta Alibi has an 

d 

toilette option ... it’s a new floral 

fruity gourmand fragrance with 

Ginger flower and mandarin 

orange; vanilla orchid and Watery 

and praline. Mother-of-the-bride 

may love this one, too. R1499 from 

Truworths and Foschini. 

Handmade in the 

Bahamas, delicate 

earrings, R1500. 

Details: enquiries@ 

bloomfieldbespoke.com 

This NUXE Huile 

Prodigieuse Florale 

Gift Set is perfect 

for travelling (did 

we hear honeymoon 

LUMINOUS 

mentioned?). With four 

& 

gorgeous minis - a 

scented shower gel, 

Huile Prodigieuse multipurpose 

dry oil for your 

Icias mos maios aspictem et dia experovit, consequatur res event. 

face, body and hair 

Uptatis maio. Nequatiundes sa consed maximo comnis is audantibus eium fugitibus (our can’t-live-without 

volor aut unt 

eum culluptio velesectus int. 

product), le Parfum and 

Harchil iquaerovid et labo. Henis maioreic te nemquas autem qui sin con plic Very tem Rose quid ut 3-in-1 remque soothing 

del incia porem ad mo quataque veniscienis sunt. 

micellar water, it’s a 

Sequi ad quia sequi omnim nonseri cuptae. Ut latempor rem fugia sin expe nest acerchi cipsus. 

Glowing serums and feminine fragrances and kiss-me lippies treat in a bag. R675 from 

Con restest aut qui consend itisseque se cumquid undemperia autem quiae labo. Woolworths, Nem reri Truworths 

and pretty earrings doluptatest ... aciumquia happy num (and hicipsa beautiful) sererum, niam is the ducienet bride! quia es nobis digendae & Foschini. sectaquo et 

ea porupta volo cume volupis idendeb istist aliqui velita dero corum 

& LOVELY 


As a makeup artist with nearly a decade of experience in 

bridal beauty under his blush brush, Ryno Mulder knows 

a lot about what works. And what doesn’t! His approach 

is based on two things ... the methods celebrities use to 

prepare for events, and the preventable beauty disasters 

he’s seen brides experience. By following his guide, you’ll be 

sure to look and feel your best on your big day. 

DO remove facial hair. Even if it’s blonde peach fuzz, it will 

emphasise unwanted texture once covered in foundation 

and powder. To ensure fuzz-free and luminous skin, figure 

out which hair removal technique works best for you. 

Options include waxing, threading, hair removal cream, 

or dermaplaning, with dermaplaning resulting in not only 

fuzz-free skin but also a glowing complexion. Remember to 

schedule a trial run ahead of time to ensure that your skin 

doesn’t have an adverse reaction, and be sure to get the 

hair removal done at least four days before the wedding to 

allow time for recovery. 

DON’T do facial treatments right before the wedding. 

Rushing into treatments shortly before the big day often 

leads to unwanted 

side effects like rashes, 

pimples, and skin 

abrasions. Give your skin 

time to heal by avoiding 

treatments like chemical 

peels, microdermabrasion, 

and laser or filler 

treatments for at least 

a month before your 

wedding day. 

DO have a hair and 

makeup schedule for your 

wedding day, managed 

by an A-type personality 

friend and communicated 

well in advance to 

everyone involved. This 

will help to avoid any last-minute stress and ensure that 

everyone is ready on time. Allocate an hour per person for 

hair and another hour for makeup, with the bride getting 

her makeup done second to last. This ensures that the 

makeup artist is not tired and can give you the attention 

you deserve, as well as leaving time for the bride’s preceremony 

pictures. 

BRIDAL 

PREP SHEET 

We got advice from the expert ... here’s your 

ultimate bridal beauty prep sheet 

DON’T skimp on your hair and makeup artists. Remember 

that you are the star of the show and that your photos 

will live on forever. It’s not the time nor the place in your 

wedding budget to be penny-pinching. Invest in the 

absolute best artists who specialise in hair and makeup ... 

they are the ones who will make you look and feel amazing. 

DO schedule a trial well ahead of your wedding date, at 

least three months before. This gives you plenty of time to 

consult with your hair stylist and makeup artist about your 

preferences, beauty style, and expectations. You’ll also have 

time to improve your skin or hair if necessary, and, if you 

find you and the hair or makeup artist are just not a good 

fit, you’ll have time to retrial with another artist. 

36 Get It Magazine May 23 

DON’T get lash extensions. They can be damaging to your 

lashes and, according to eye specialists, even pose a risk to 

your eye health. Instead, let your makeup artist determine 

the best length, density, colour, and style of strip lashes to 

complement your eye shape and makeup. 

MAYBE reference images can be helpful to give your 

hair and makeup team an idea of what you like, but it’s 

important to keep in mind that an exact replication of a 

Pinterest picture is not likely. Photos are often retouched 

and the model may have different features than you do, so 

it’s best to approach your bridal look with an open mind. 

DO show up with a perfectly clean face and a simple 

moisturizer. Removing yesterday’s leftover eyeliner and 

washing your face is not the makeup artist’s job, as it will 

cut into your precious makeup time. Additionally, properly 

removing mascara and eyeliner can sensitise the delicate 

eye area, so it’s best to come with a fresh, clean face. When 

a client tells me no one ever sees her without makeup and 

that is why she needs to arrive at her booking already made 

up, I wish she would love herself better. 

DON’T be tempted to 

stick with your regular 

stylist for your bridal 

styling. It’s in your best 

interest to find a specialist 

who exclusively shapes 

hair for weddings, photo 

shoots, and events. Unlike 

full-time salon stylists, 

session stylists have the 

expertise, training and 

experience to create 

styles that will look 

good and stay in place 

for hours on end, so it’s 

worth investing in their 

services. 

DO make sure to wash 

your hair on the morning of your wedding day - or the 

night before at the latest. Dirty hair is limp, smelly, and 

lacking in lustre, which won’t hold a style well. 

DON’T overdo conditioning your hair. Be careful with leavein 

oils or masks, as they can make your hair tacky, limp and 

impossible to style. 

DO check out the rates - as well as the artist’s work and 

reviews of their clients’ experiences. Then, when it comes 

to cost, it’s important to provide as much information 

as possible when asking the artist for a quotation. This 

includes the wedding date, ceremony time, venue address, 

and the number of faces in the bridal party. 

Ryno’s rates are R1300 for bridal makeup, R850 a person for 

others in the bridal party, and a return travel fee based on 

the distance to the venue. To see his tremendous work, pop 

over to @makeupbyryno on Instagram. 

Details: If you have any questions or would like to book 

Makeup by Ryno’s services, reach out on WhatsApp 

at 071-688-0242.


Bridesmaids looking for prewedding 

gift ideas .... we 

love this Bespoke Wedding 

Planner Notebook. It is 

(after you, obviously) the 

ultimate bride’s best friend. 

It has everything, clearly 

laid out in easy-to-follow 

steps, from the budget to 

the venue hunt, from the 

ceremony to the catering, 

flowers and decor. What’s 

more, there are great tips 

from the best wedding 

planners, photographers, 

florists, designers, caterers, 

cake makers, stationery 

designers ... advice from 

the best in the biz. Besides 

being jolly useful leading 

up to the big day, it makes a 

lovely keepsake. R549 from 

bespokehome.co.za 

Bridesmaids ... 

this one’s for you 

Bridal shower. Bachelorette. Kitchen Tea. Call 

it what you will, but games are essential, 

as is a signature cocktail. We suggest a 

Palomimosa. For each cocktail, you’ll need 

15ml Bombay Gin, 10ml lime juice, 25ml 

grapefruit juice and a handful of ice, which 

you’ll shake frantically in a cocktail shaker. 

Strain into a chilled coupe glass, and top 

with 100ml Steenberg 1682 Pinot Noir Brut 

Cap Classique. Garnish with thyme sprig. 

It’s not often we suggest matchy-matchy. But for the bridal party the evening before the big day ... and the morning, too 

(champagne breakfast for the tribe, please) ... it’s a massive yes. Bespoke, monogrammed slippers, gowns, pyjamamas 

... love it! Our go-to ... The Sleep House, where you can select from an amazing selection of locally made sets, robes and 

slippers and they’ll created custom bridal sleepwear to suit your theme. Details: thesleephouse.co.za 


Complied by: KYM ARGO. • Photo: MEGAN BRETT 

Made in the traditional French method, this delicate pink hued Steenberg 1682 Pinot Noir Cap Classique NV is fresh 

with fruity aromas of raspberry jelly, wild strawberry sorbet, red apple skin and toasted brioche. R220, steenbergfarm.com • 

The Robertson Winery Brut Rosé Sparkling Wine is fruity with wild strawberries, floral, affordable and delicious. Serve it 

well chilled with canapés. Around R71, robertsonwinery.co.za • The dry style of this NOBLE HILL Blanc de Blancs Brut Nature 

makes it a brilliant option for serving with savoury food. With fruit notes including melon, pineapple, and hibiscus flower, 

it’s all elegant and finely formed bubbles, with just enough fizz to start a celebration of any occasion. R249, noblehill.com 

• At Haute Cabrière, the von Arnim family specialises in wines created from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grape varietals. This 

Pierre Jourdan Cap Classique Brut pays tribute to the versatility of both. Created in the traditional French method, it has 

fresh citrus flavours and goes particularly well with lighter seafood dishes. R170, cabriere.co.za 



Fine bubbles 

It’s simply not a celebration if there isn’t a glass of bubbly ... 

we found a handful we love. 

Produced according to the classic bottle-fermentation method from Champagne, Blaauwklippen 2020 Brut Cap 

Classique is a delicate and fresh wine with floral hints - all orange blossom, strawberries and lemons, and a creamy core. 

It’s a one of a kind – the only Cap Classique made 100 per cent from Zinfandel grapes – it’s the perfect drink to toast to 

memorable moments, or to set the tone for a romantic seafood dinner. R250, blaauwklippen.com • This Pieter Cruythoff 

Brut Rosé is made in a rare style that combines the traditional Champagne technique to create flavour and French Charmat 

method of carbonation, for fizz. A blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, it has bright red berry notes, a hint of rose petals and 

a touch of spice. You’ll love this with a rich chocolate dessert. The Pieter Cruythoff Brut, with peach blossom, white peach 

and melon aromatics, pairs wonderfully with summer salads, wild mushroom risotto, sushi, seared tuna and salmon. Both 

these cost around R96 a bottle from Spar Tops and Checkers. 


WEDDING 

ROSE TRENDS 

Roses are always a popular choice for brides and the latest trend is for full-petalled 

peony-type roses in soft vintage shades that double as gorgeous garden roses. 

May is one of the most popular 

months for weddings. And the most 

popular wedding flower? Roses 

of course. 

According to the trend spotters, 

brides are opting for more muted 

shades and a romanticised vintage 

look that favours the large, peonytype 

rose bloom. 

Rose grower Ludwig Taschner 

concurs, saying that growers who 

supply roses for weddings now want 

to plant roses that have that nostalgic, 

old-fashioned look with a strong 

perfume but are good cut roses. 

‘Many of the older perfumed roses 

have soft petals that bruise easily, but 

the newer Antico Moderno roses like 

‘Free and Loyal’ , ‘Manuela Crabbia’, 

‘Lyn Kepler’ and ‘Sacred Red’ have firm 

petals and stiff stems, which makes 

them easier to handle and their petals 

don’t bruise as easily,’ says Ludwig. 

LONG-LIFE TIP 

When picking the roses have a bucket half filled with water at hand 

and put the blooms into the bucket straight away. 

Once all the blooms have been picked, fill the bucket to the brim 

with water and store the roses in a cool, dark place like the garage 

for a few hours or at best overnight. This allows the stems to draw 

up the most amount of water. Details: ludwigsroses.co.za 



When advising brides-to-be and their 

mothers, Ludwig recommends combining 

home grown and florist roses for a personal 

touch, which relieves the pressure of having 

to grow all the roses themselves. ‘There are 

many garden roses of florist quality that pair 

well with commercial varieties, says Ludwig. 

‘Growing your own also allows more choice 

and variety, especially if you want the old 

fashioned, fuller blooms.’ Here are five that 

Ludwig recommends. 

1MANUELA CRABBIA 

When it is in full bloom, you’d be forgiven for 

thinking this rose is actually a peony. The huge 

blooms of Manuela Crabbia reveal a range of pink 

shades and have a moderate fragrance. The vigorous bush 

is eye-catching, producing many cuttable blooms on long, 

straight stems. It is an Eco-chic disease resistant rose. 

2FREE AND LOYAL 

The top wedding rose is Free and Loyal, with strongly 

fragrant blooms starting as elegant urn-shaped buds 

that open into a huge, full petalled white bloom with 

a soft apricot centre. The white petals do not blemish easily. 

The shoulder-high bush is sturdy and strong. 

3GREAT GATSBY 

Earthy colours such as mushroom, brown and 

chocolate are also in fashion and the rose that fits 

in with that theme is Great Gatsby. It produces 

huge old fashioned blooms on single stems. The colour is 

an amazing blend of caramel coffee cream and mustard. It 

shows off best if three are planted close together as a group, 

and placed where its spectacular blooms can be admired! 

4ST DUNSTAN’S CENTENARY 

Symbolically, St Dunstan’s Centenary rose has 

great appeal because it is related to the worldfamous 

Peace rose. It produces urn-shaped yellow 

buds that slowly unfold into a large bloom, suffused 

with a pink sheen. The blooms last well on the bush and 

remain fresh when cut for the vase. The 2m high rose can 

be planted in mixed rose beds, on fences or in groups of 

three as a focal point in a garden. 

5FIFTY SHADES OF GREY 

Brides who want to create an intimate, romantic 

look are leaning towards personalised bouquets 

that reflect their own style and taste. The dusky 

pink shades of the rose Fifty Shades of Grey (named after 

that bestseller) certainly fit the bill. This hybrid tea rose 

produces huge 50-petalled blooms carried on long, strong 

stems. A close look at the blooms reveals shades of brown, 

mauve, pink and even grey. It is a powerful rose with the 

legendary Papa Meilland’rose in its genes. 

ROSES AS TABLE DECORATIONS 

Why not carry the theme of roses through to the corsages 

and buttonholes, as pew decorations and, of course, the 

tables at the reception? 

Short-stemmed roses are the most suitable, especially at 

the reception because people don’t want to peer at each 

other between huge flower arrangements. Opt for small or 

shallow containers. For a simple but beautiful effect, just cut 

off the fully opened heads and float them in a water-filled 

bowl. Another idea is to push the rose blooms with very 

short stems into oasis that has been soaked in water. This 

can be laid flat and used as a table arrangement. 

Roses can even be used to decorate the cake, creating a 

natural look that is bang on trend. 

Text: ALICE COETZEE 


Love(ly) hideaways 

Honeymoon spots ... for a night or a week, without leaving the country. 

The Wildenhondekloof Private Game Reserve 

Thanda Tented Camp 

You’re spoilt for choice at Thanda 

Safari, where you can chose between 

Thanda Safari Lodge, Villa iZulu and 

- our suggestion for honeymooners 

- the romantic Thanda Tented 

Camp. It’s all big five country, with 

early morning game drives, dinner 

under the stars, colonial tents with 

private viewing decks. And Thanda 

means love in isiZulu ... so there’s 

that, too! Just north of Hluhluwe, 

about 220km north of Durban. Rates 

from R3247 a person, all inclusive. 

Details: thandasafari.co.za 

If the wide open romance of 

the Klein Karoo appeals, The 

Wildehondekloof Private 

Game Reserve is a magic 

choice. This 4000-hectare farm 

with a luxury game lodge, just 

outside of Oudtshoorn, has 

just nine luxurious bedrooms 

with stunning mountain and 

river views. Game drives, hiking 

trails, mountain biking ... this is 

one of the hallmark properties 

of Cape Country Routes, and 

with good reason. Exclusive 

and luxurious and in the Klein 

Karoo ... tick, tick and triple tick. 

Also great restaurant, cocktail 

bar and star-gazing tours Rates 

from R2365 a person sharing, 

dinner, bed and breakfast. 

Details capecountryroutes.com 



Lily Pond Country Lodge 

Sitting on the banks of the most beautiful lily pond and surrounded by 12 hectares of indigenous forest, the contemporary 

“Afro-Zen” style Lily Pond Country Lodge is a haven of space and fresh air - renowned for its design, tranquility, relaxing 

ambience and creative cuisine. Book the private honeymoon suite, with spa bath. Close to Plett, between the Crags and 

Nature’s Valley, it’s the perfect overnight stop between the Eastern Cape game lodges and the famous Route 62. Rates from 

R3300 a couple per night. Details: capecountryroutes.com 

Darling Lodge Guest House 

The charming Darling Lodge Guest House is in the romantic town 

of Darling, on the West Coast. All lush gardens, a harmonious blend 

of old and new, peace and tranquility, the sensitively restored 

Victorian main house offers three glorious country-style rooms, and 

the more modern garden annex offers a further three beautifully 

appointed rooms with a grapevine covered patio overlooking the 

swimming pool. It’s 25 km from the West Coast National Park and 

80 km from Cape Town International Airport, it’s set in one of the 

world’s smallest and richest Floral kingdoms. Rates from R1980 a 

couple including breakfast. Details: capecountryroutes.com 

Val du Charron Wine & Leisure Estate 

The five-star Coach House, dating back to 1699, at 

Val du Charron Wine & Leisure Estate is a fab option 

for active honeymooners ... luxe, private and as relaxing 

or busy as you want it to be. It’s a working vineyard 

with its own cellar in the heart of the winelands, close 

to Wellington and just under an hour’s drive from Cape 

Town. Two great restaurants, wine tastings, a Theatre of 

Wines vineyard and cellar tour, a world-class MTB trail for 

novice and skilled riders, and half a dozen running trails ... 

loads to fill your days. In between all the activities, rooms 

are luxurious enough to stay put all day, with private 

plunge pools and patios, fireplaces and views for days. 

Book the Presidential Suite - the rate is R6110 a room per 

night. Details: capecountryroutes.com 




LEGAL 

SERVICES 

Our Services 

Antenuptial contracts 

Property 

Last Will and Testament 

CONTACT US 

www.shabanclark.co.za

FOCUS ON WEDDINGS

FOCUS ON WEDDINGS

GET IT DIRECTORY

DIRECTORY

A Local Paradise 

It’s like stepping into another world. Somewhere in Bali perhaps? A five-star villa in the 

Maldives? No, Sala Beach House isn’t situated on an exotic island thousands of miles 

away. It’s right here on our beautiful KZN North Coast ... and it’s open for business. 

TEXT: LEAH SHONE. • Photographs: CHRIS ALLAN PHOTO. 

From the moment you arrive at Sala, 

you know you are somewhere special. 

Large, wooden steps lead you down 

a pathway through lush, subtropical 

vegetation past the tranquil spa 

towards the main house. 

As you enter the five-star boutique 

hotel, you can't help but stop and take 

in the exquisite ocean views in front of 

you. Simply breath taking. The decor, 

too, is phenomenal. Muted tones with 

natural, seascape-inspired palates and 

a variety of textures make it elegantly 

upmarket, while still ensuring it 

remains warm and welcoming. 

The staff and service are impeccable. 

It's five-star luxury from the outset, 

starting with welcome drinks and 

hot towels, all the way to finding out 

what your personal likes and dislikes 

are (such as the type of milk you'd like 

in your bar fridge or what snacks you 

prefer in your room). 

There are 10 rooms at Sala - four luxury 

guest rooms and three suites – all 

spacious and bright with floor-toceiling 

windows, private balconies and 

magnificent, oversized bathrooms. 

No expense has been spared in the 

rooms, with top-class amenities 

and considered touches, such as 

homemade biscuits and locallysourced 

coffee, as well as USB ports 

and international plug points, and the 

most wonderful high-quality bedding, 

towels and gowns. There are even 

yoga mats and dumbbells ... if you're so 

inclined during your stay. 

Set slightly away from the main 

house is the stunning, threebedroom 

Sala Villa, which not only 

has its own living and dining area 

and full kitchen, but also boasts a 

private plunge pool and balcony. It's 

perfect for families or small groups. 

There is private beach access to 

Thompson's Bay for all Sala guests, 

and a sundowner and canapés 

around the gorgeous fire pit listening 

to the waves crash in front of you is 

an absolute highlight. 

Sala is more than just a boutique hotel 

and you don’t have to be a guest to 

enjoy the wonderful on-site restaurant 

or spa and wellness centre. The 

restaurant menu, under the guidance 

of internationally-trained chef Calvin 

Metior, is designed using fresh, local 

ingredients and changes seasonally. 

The spa is a sanctuary on its own worth 

visiting, offering a range of luxurious 

Terres d’Afrique and QMS facials and 

body treatments, and there are carefully 

thought-out packages to suit any 

occasion. The Escape to Sala package 

is a great way to experience all of the 

tranquil luxury that Sala has to offer and 

includes a 60-minute body treatment, 

full use of the spa pool and a threecourse 

lunch overlooking the Indian 

Ocean, all for just R1 300. 

The perfect getaway for couples 

or singles looking for an upmarket 

boutique offering, or small groups or 

families wanting a luxurious coastal 

escape, Sala Beach House is set to 

become a popular destination for those 

– both locals and visitors – wanting to 

slip away and enjoy all that the beautiful 

KZN North Coast has to offer. 

Details: www.salabeach.co.za, 

032 4920420, stay@salabeach.co.za, 

@salabeach on social media 


Spoil 

May 

The ultimate dinner party starter kit 

We’re massive, massive fans of Maxwell and Williams ... the designs are always on point, the quality’s 

exceptional, the prices affordable. And we fancy the fact that we can buy a basic range, and then add on as 

and when we need to. So this month’s Spoil is a real winner. A collection to set you up ... a 16-piece Maxwell & 

Williams white basics Diamonds dinner set, along with a large matching round serving bowl and rectangular 

platter, and a classic jug and large Epicurious round casserole. And since a perfectly laid table needs to be well 

dressed, there’s a white cotton Classics rectangular table cloth and matching set of four napkins, and a pair of 

Maxwell and Williams Calia wine glasses (which we have to tell you are the best wine glasses around ... love 

them!). The Spoil is valued at R5300 and trust us, you really, really want to win this one. 

Pop over to @get_it_joburg_north on Instagram, find the post and follow the prompts. 

Details: maxwellandwilliams.co.za

JHB North - May 23

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