May 24 - Lowveld

Brenda &
Umelwe
Mabaso
Of mentors and
mothers
Win!
A case of sublime
wine is up for
grabs
Before you
say ‘I do’
A magical
Mother’s Day
OH SO PRETTY
SHOPPING, PEOPLE AND LIFESTYLE IN YOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD
MAY 2024

Before
you tie
the knot
Page 22

contents
GET IT
Editorial
Phone 013 754 1600
Lowveld Media
12 Stinkhout Crescent, Mbombela
Facebook Get It Lowveld
Instagram Get It Lowveld
Website getitmagazine.co.za/lowveld/
Editor
Mellissa Bushby
mellissa@getitlowveld.co.za 084 319 2101
Photographer
Belinda Erasmus 082 567 0596
Layout
Wessel Cöhrs 074 801 4477
Subeditors
Wahl Lessing
Ida de Wet
Annica Fourie
Sales
Colletha Noppé Rattray
colletha@lowvelder.co.za 082 745 2387
GET IT NATIONAL
National Group Editor and
National Sales
Kym Argo
kyma@caxton.co.za 082 785 9230
Facebook and Instagram:
Get It National Magazines
Distribution
Get It Lowveld is distributed free of charge.
For a full list of where to find a copy,
phone Monya Burger on 083 555 4992
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 Get It
Lowveld within 10 days or they will be forfeited.
Prizewinners names are published on our
Facebook page monthly.
Why don’t you ...
02 Attend Bark in the Park for charity, have a blast at the
air show, or get nostalgic at the drive-in
04 Interesting women, natural history mysteries
... and a look into the future
WISH LIST
06 Gorgeous fragrance, sublime bubbles
and hand-crafted jewellery
people
08 Lindiwe Brenda Mabaso chats to us about
motherhood and mentoring
12 Mum Sonette Barnard gives her tips on the
best Mother’s Day spoils
FOOD
16 Beyond nutrition - why functional food is the
new buzzword in nutritional circles
19 Indulge in the versatility of avos
BRIDAL
22 A checklist of things to do the week
before you say ‘I do’
25 A cocktail hour with all the feels and
none of the nasties
TRAVEL
30 Travelling with the muttley crew is a
tail-wagging adventure
Win
25 A de-alcoholised wine and alcohol-free
hamper to the value of R2 000
32 A case of gorgeous wine to celebrate
a special occasion
COVER LOOK
Brenda and Umilwe Mabaso.
Photographer: Belinda Erasmus - Belle Grace Photography.
Make-up: Elsabé Steyn - Elsabé Steyn Styling Studio.
Venue: Bistro Bistro, Mbombela.
may 2024
May 2024 Get It Lowveld 01

A hot date!
Pencil these events into your May diary
right now
11
Celebrating 30 years of air show excellence, the Lowveld Air Show
is back! Some of the highlights include a spectacular fireworks
display, kiddies play area, a wide variety of stalls and exhibitions and
an unforgettable afterparty. The show takes place at the Nelspruit
Airfield. Details: 072 447 5968
1Join in for a family day of fun at the Yor-K9
Bark in the Park 2024, held at the York
Adventure Club, to raise funds for Sabie-
MAST, a non-profit community service that
subsidises the cost of animal sterilisation in
the informal settlements in the area. There
will be loads to eat, drink and do on the day,
including an obstacle and obedience course
and a pet lookalike competition, which will
take place after the trail run. There will also be
great prizes up for grabs. Details: 082 222 2204
3
Enjoy a touch of nostalgia
and a fun affordable night
out at the Bingelela Drive
Inn with feel-good rom-com
Sweet Home Alabama, starring
Reese Witherspoon, Josh Lucas
and Patrick Dempsey. Bring
the whole family to relax and
enjoy classic films in a laidback
environment. Details:
082 304 8614
If you have a date for our diary, email the info at least a month in advance to mellissa@getitlowveld.co.za

Calling all fur babies and
their paw-rents to the
Furr Fiesta Dog Show
on June 8! Don’t miss out
on a day filled with barks,
waggy tails and endless
fun at King Bean in The
Bagdad Centre, White River.
At King Bean, everyone -
even your best furry
friends - comes as they
are and leaves feeling like
royalty. Join us for a wooftastic
time! Registration is
from May 1. Details:
@kingbeancoffeespecialists,
or contact Pricille on
061 748 5513
4Hey there, Cork Dorks! The
Unwined Local Food & Wine
Show is back with an exciting line-up
of brand-new estates. From fresh
whites to luscious reds, indulge in the
best wines and culinary delights that
the Lowveld has to offer. Tickets cost
R250 and are available online at www.
un-wined.co.za. Details: 082 789 4401
Make memories you’ll cherish
12forever this Mother’s Day at
Arch and Arrow’s first-ever Love
Loud Lowveld Festival! Treat mum to
an unforgettable experience featuring
electrifying performances by Brendan
Peyper, Chris Steyn and Thys Nortjé.
Tickets are R200, available at Quicket.
Gates open at 11 am and close at
6 pm. Details: info@archandarrow.co.za
Come and enjoy a chilled
18morning yoga session with
an experienced yogi from Pretoria
along with the Pro-Life puppies!
Event kicks off at 9 am and entry is
R80 pp for adults and R40 for children.
Please bring your own yoga mat.
Details: Karin on 060 672 6837

Book club
Interesting women, natural history mysteries ... and a look into the future!
Keep your
place with
Book Darts,
R425 from
pezulainteriors.co.za
Compiled by: Kym Argo
It’s 1954 on far-flung Verona Island,
a tropical paradise with a fragile
economy and a rising crime rate.
Prostitution is legal and Lila Gulliver
is proud of her business - a highend
brothel where her clients are
guaranteed privacy and discretion.
When Carità Bercy, a young, destitute,
and beautiful blind woman arrives at
her door seeking employment, Lila
decides to give her a chance. Carità
proves a valuable asset to the house,
as well as a psychological puzzle to her
employer. One hot night, Ian Drohan,
a handsome son of a wealthy judge,
visits Lila’s house for the first time,
and falls madly in love with Carità.
Lila doubts his sincerity and fears for
Carità‘s future. But Carità has no such
fears. In fact, she is a reckless force of
nature, determined to succeed in ways
Lila hasn’t even contemplated. Valerie
Martin’s Mrs Gulliver ... a steamy tale
of passionate love, found and lost, and
found again! Doubleday
04 Get It Lowveld May 2024
The first thing Vanessa Carvin does
when she arrives on the small island
off the coast of Ireland is change her
name. To the locals, she will be Willow
Hale. The second is to shave her head
... no longer shoulder length blonde,
it’s now cropped and grey, more
in keeping with a solitary outsider
escaping Dublin to live a hermetic
existence in a small cottage, and not a
notorious woman trying to get away
from the media after her husband
committed a crime - one they think
she is guilty of, too. Escaping her old
life might seem like a good idea but
the choices she has made throughout
her marriage have consequences.
Here, on the island, Vanessa must
reflect on what she did, and did
not, do. Only then can she discover
whether she is worthy of finding
peace at all. Water by John Boyne ...
a story of a woman coming to terms
with the demons of her past and
finding a new path forward. Penguin
It’s 2050. A climate-changed world,
where humans and digital devices
are closely entwined. It’s a world filled
with natural disasters, drought, famine
and floods. People are displaced as
new immigration laws are put into
effect, and the gap between the
haves and have nots widens. Future
Imperfect by Babette Gallard is
the story of a family determined to
be together ... despite the horrific
obstacles in their way ... exhaustion,
terror, the xenophobia of people
struggling to protect their increasingly
scarce resources. Thought-provoking,
this novel raises the question of what
may happen to our world in the nottoo-distant
future. LightEye

BOOK NOW
013 757 4455
Extraordinarily similar woodpeckers
in South America and Africa.
Quintessentially African trees native
across South America, from Ecuador
to Paraguay. How could this be? This
question nagged Nick Norman, an
exploration geologist by profession
and keen birder by hobby. He’d been
surprised to see a woodpecker in
Brazil, where he was working at the
time, which was strikingly similar to
those he knew in the land of his birth,
South Africa. In subsequent work
engagements in South America, he
saw other birds there, as well as trees,
which represented families he knew
well in Africa. That was the mystery
… how the same families of flora and
fauna had distributed themselves in
continents astride a major world ocean,
the South Atlantic. The obvious answer
– continental drift – turned out to be
a blind alley. Sherlock Holmes said
‘When you have eliminated all which
is impossible, then whatever remains,
however improbable, must be the
truth.’ In solving the mystery, the truth
of Holmes’s axiom became more and
more evident to Nick as he discovered
extraordinary travelogues of trees and
birds for which, given enough time, a
wide ocean was no barrier. This, Nick
Norman’s The Woodpecker Mystery –
The inevitability of the Improbable, is
a story of astonishing epiphanies, full of
fact that will fascinate lovers of natural
history. The Franschhoek Press
Bruce Jack’s Ghost In The
Machine Sauvignon Blanc is all
clean and fresh tropical fruit flavours
- papaya and spanspek, with hints
of litchi, and is brilliant paired with
fried zucchini, asparagus, risotto and
a Greek pasta salad. Order online for
R208 from orders@thedrift.co.za or
find at your local bottlestore.
All books available at Exclusive Books and
exclusivebooks.co.za
12 MAY 2024
MOTHERS'
DAY
LUNCH
12H00 TO 16H00
WELCOME DRINK
TO ALL LADIES
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT
Ts o g o Re wa rds
me mbe rs : R265pp
Kids U / 3 : F re e
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Ts & Cs apply. Full offer available emnotweni.co.za

Wish list
We’re wishing for romance … mwah mwah
“We’ve been waiting eight years for this.” Matured over eight
years, Spier has just released the small-lot 2016 Prestige
Cuvée Cap Classique. And Spier Cellar Master Johan Jordaan
continues “But let me tell you, those eight years were worth
every second. The cuvée’s prolonged contact with the lees
has imbued it with an extraordinary depth of character
and a complexity that only time can bestow.” With a creamy
texture and layers of nuanced flavours ranging from crisp
red apple and citrus to brioche and stewed fruits, this Cap
Classique invites you to slow down and savour the moment.
“It’s not just about when you drink it, but more importantly,
the company you’re with and the quality of the time you’re
enjoying. If you ask me, that’s the perfect pairing,” reflects
Johan. R450 a bottle from spier.co.za
May you be blessed with light and
treasured times. Ribbons of Love
by Dr Elizabeth Peter-Ross is a book
of marriage themes, blessings and
art ... inspired by the need of many
of today’s couples to celebrate their
marriage more personally than the
traditional. There are 25 blessings,
ranging from celebration and
commitment to trust, loyalty and
gratitude, all with glorious artworks
by Annie Druyer. R250
06 Get It Lowveld May 2024

For the bride, the bridesmaids, the mothers of the bride and groom
... the pieces of handcrafted jewellery from Shelley Taylor make
a beautiful statement. Fresh water pearls simply never go out of
fashion ... and the range of earrings, necklaces and bracelets is
simply dazzling. Details: shelleytaylor.co.za
Bella Vita Paradiso Eau de Parfum
from Guess ... an intensely desirable
Floral Amber Gourmand scent
opening with a juicy blend of
Italian Mandarin, inviting Pear
Blossom and flirtatious Red Berries,
with a floral heart which blooms
of rousing Jasmine, fresh Gardenia
and honeyed Tuberose, subsiding
into a rich base of grounding
Patchouli, bold Amber and creamy
Musk for a memorable signature.
Sensual, confident, bold, you’ll find
it at Dis-Chem for R1325.
Sophisticated antique-toned brass and
black nickel Luca wine cooler,
R2 995 from blockandchisel.co.za
May 2024 Get It Lowveld 07
Compiled by: Kym Argo

Elegant and gracious, Lindiwe Brenda Mabaso’s ladylike demeanour belies a
plucky and resourceful determination to challenge the status quo.
Brenda Mabaso

Text: MELLISSA BUSHBY. Photographer: BELINDA Erasmus
Brenda has done her fair share of
moving around over the years, but is
happy to call Mbombela home for the
time being. She smilingly says that it
is a case of ‘wherever I lay my head is
home’. “My son has even told me on
several occasions that he really hopes
that this time we stay put, as he really
doesn’t want to move again!”
Brenda’s career started off in the field
of commerce teaching, although deep
down she always knew she wouldn’t
be a teacher for long. Three years later
she joined an NGO affiliated with the
Women’s World Bank, which placed her
squarely on an international platform.
“The organisation was responsible for
assisting women to start their own
income-generating projects in order
to be self-sufficient,” she explains.
“This was my career springboard and
breakthrough; it exposed me to so
much more than I was used to.”
From there Brenda joined another skills
training institute that offered her a
scholarship from the British Council to
study in the United Kingdom, where
she completed her masters in business
administration with the Durham
University Business School. Since then,
Brenda’s career has taken many turns,
from negotiating trade talks to working
with industrial development zones,
both locally and internationally. But
her true passion has always lain with
making a difference in people’s lives,
specifically when it comes to gender
issues.
In 2021, Brenda followed her heart and
established The Mentorship Academy
(TMA), an organisation based on
helping young women to succeed.
“TMA focuses on the guidance of
Brenda with her good friend, Brenda Archdeacon
young women,” she says, “the whole
aim of which is to build a pipeline of
young women who are confident
enough and equipped to take up
leadership roles, women who are
supported and empowered enough
to deal with the traditional difficulties
they face, whatever prevents them
from reaching their goals.”
Brenda describes the difficulties she
experienced during her career. “There
were so many challenges, the worst
of which was gender discrimination. I
looked back and realised that if I had
had a mentor, things would have been
that much easier. However, through
the many challenges, I was always able
to bounce back, but not everyone is as
resilient, and I also think it comes down
to self-worth. I wanted to establish a
platform on which young women can
be mentored by experienced men and
women, men and women with a vast
wealth of leadership experience.”
Brenda’s most challenging times
were experienced between the
ages of 25 and 35. Research shows
that this is the most critical stage in

A happy family
a women’s life cycle, the age when
many women are establishing their
careers or experiencing significant
advancements. “It involves balancing
career aspirations with personal goals,
such as starting a family, perhaps
dealing with fertility concerns,
financial considerations and societal
expectations, etc. This can be stressful,
and without any help or guidance,
you can easily give up on your dreams.
What was even more of a problem for
me was the lack of ambition - how few
young women aspired to leadership
roles. My vision is to help them unleash
their hidden leadership potential.”
One of the great things about
the digital age is how it connects
people from all over, and TMA is no
exception. Brenda’s mentors come
from all over the world, which means
she travels more often than not. “My
work life is highly demanding, and I
sometimes find it difficult to balance
the many roles, especially being a
present mother to my son, Umelwe
[12], and my family, which includes
Jaden, our little dog. I also have to
find time for my studies! I’m currently
doing research with the University of
Northampton in the UK, which comes
with its own challenges. My family is
very supportive, which really helps me
to cope.”
10 Get It Lowveld May 2024
Brenda describes herself as resilient,
determined and a go-getter. She is
inspired by interactions with friends,
family, colleagues, mentors and even
strangers. “I love learning from other
people’s experiences,” she smiles.
“Ideas and perspectives motivate and
challenge me to always explore new
possibilities, and overcoming obstacles
is a powerful source of inspiration - it
makes me discover my inner strength
and determination.”
When Brenda is at home, she loves
spending time with Umelwe and
Brenda and Umelwe
Jaden, and their favourite place to
go to is Kaapsehoop. “It’s quiet but
adventurous,” she says, “Umelwe can
go horse riding, we can go walking
along the trails - it’s peaceful and
beautiful. And there are so many places
to sit and have a quiet meal in lovely
surroundings.”
Brenda has already helped countless
young mentees to see their potential
and set the stage for great things. She
stresses that young people must realise
the sole responsibility for defining
their future lies with them. “I always
say the world is your oyster and a
positive attitude will always help you to
navigate tough times and challenges.
Complaining and doubting yourself
will not help at all. Try something new,
seek help, and above all, never give up.”
Right now, this dynamic woman’s main
priority is to finish her research with
the University of Northampton, and
then to complete her doctorate. “To
be honest, I have always seen myself
in a much higher position than I am in
now - although, having said that, I am
quite happy with what I have achieved,”
she smiles. “And I’m still aiming high.
I always wanted to make a difference
in people’s lives, I wanted to break the
norm and be involved in providing
solutions. I just knew I did not ever
want to be ordinary.”

CONNECT TO MORE FAMILY TIME
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thanks
mum!
Orchid Farm Stall
Café, N4
Mother’s Day celebration
is the perfect occasion to
spoil your mum with a little
outing out of town to enjoy
a tasty breakfast, light lunch
or sweet treat. We have a
cake and coffee special of
R70 throughout May. And
remember, beautiful orchid
or indoor plants make the
perfect gift. Gift vouchers
will be available.
Details: Urna on 082 452 2348
Bistro Bistro
Mother’s Day is more
than just a special
occasion dedicated
to honouring the
incredible women in
our lives who have
selflessly nurtured
and cared for us.
It’s also a day for
mums to celebrate
themselves and
indulge in a little
self-care and
pampering.
We chatted to Sonette Barnard of
Bodycure to find out what her top
tips for a fabulous Mother’s Day are,
from being spoilt by the family to
practising self-care.
Starting the day with breakfast in
bed is Sonette’s first port of call.
“Let your family pamper you by
preparing a delicious breakfast and
serving it to you in bed. Enjoying
the luxury of a leisurely morning is
Spoil Mum at Bistro Bistro this Mother’s Day, where we
believe in balancing gourmet food with the comfort
of tradition. Set in the beautiful Lowveld, our range of
delicious meals paired with our hand-picked selection
of some of South Africa’s finest wines is an experience
not to be missed, especially when combined with our
eclectic and intimate atmosphere. Details: 013 013 0356
12 Get It Lowveld May 2024

Text: MELLISSA BUSHBY
all part of your special day,” she says.
“Then, while you are enjoying your cup
of tea or coffee made with the help
of little hands, plan a family outing for
later on in the day. It’s important to
spend quality time together. It could
be a picnic in the park, a hike in nature
or even a visit to a local attraction.
Creating lasting memories together is
part of making the most of the day.”
But don’t forget the me-time!
Indulging in some spa time is a
favourite way to relax and spoil
yourself, whether it’s for an hour or
the whole day. “Treat yourself, either
at a professional spa or in the comfort
of your own home,” Sonette advises.
“Have a relaxing bath, do a face mask
and enjoy some pampering treatments
to rejuvenate your body and mind.”
(Our home-made scrub is perfect!). “A
pamper session will make sure you feel
refreshed and ready to enjoy whatever
the rest of the day has in store,
whether it’s the picnic you’ve planned
earlier, a leisurely late lunch or a long
walk. Remember, it’s your day, so let
others handle the chores. Take a break
from all housework, including cooking,
cleaning and other tasks. Use this time
to relax and recharge.”
Sonette’s next top tip is to have a
family movie night. “Gather the family
and have a cosy movie night at home.
Let everyone choose their favourite
movies or watch a new release
together. Snuggle up with blankets,
hot cocoa and popcorn, and enjoy
quality time together.” Sonette also
recommends writing a gratitude letter,
taking a moment to express your
gratitude by writing a heartfelt note
to your mum or a mother figure in
your life. “Let them know how much
they mean to you and how they have
impacted your life. You can ask your
children to do the same, either for you
or for their gran. It’s a lovely gesture
that can be treasured for generations
to come.”
Always important, but never more
so than on Mother’s Day, practising
self-care is crucial to your mental,
emotional and physical well-being.
Set aside some time for yourself and
engage in activities that bring you joy
and relaxation. It could be reading a
book, practising yoga, taking a walk
or doing any hobby you love. Today is
the day to prioritise self-care, Sonette
advises. “Let the family spoil you!
Enjoy a special meal, whether it’s a
home-made dinner or a reservation
at a favourite restaurant, savouring
a special meal with your loved ones
is a must on Mother’s Day. Celebrate
and enjoy delicious food and take
the time to appreciate one another’s
company. Sometimes we take family
for granted. Remind yourself just
how important that bond is. You
can also get creative and engage in
a creative activity together. It could
be painting, crafting or even baking.
Let your imagination flow and create
something meaningful.”
Mother’s Day is all about celebrating
and honouring the incredible mothers
in our lives. Enjoy the day to the fullest
and cherish the love and appreciation
that surround you, and take a moment
to reflect on the joys and challenges of
motherhood. Appreciate yourself and
all the love and care you have given
to your family. Embrace the beauty of
being a mother.

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The distinctive
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Feminine design meets trending style
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From gorgeous boots to sublime fragrance, i’langa
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Beautiful, magical and unput-downable,
The Book
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Crafted from premium cast iron and finished with a colourful glaze, the Cast Iron
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Get the party started with the Fieldbar
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Green tea
Rich in antioxidants called catechins, green
tea supports immune function, metabolism
and cardiovascular health.
Functional beverages
From vitamin-enhanced waters to energy
drinks fortified with electrolytes and amino
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Fortified breakfast
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Many breakfast cereals
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In an era in which health consciousness is at its peak, the
term ‘functional foods’ has emerged as the new buzzword
in the realm of nutrition.
Functional foods are fortified with
additional nutrients and go beyond
basic sustenance, offering various
health benefits that cater to specific
bodily functions.
This new trend towards functional
eating represents a paradigm shift
in dietary habits, with consumers
increasingly seeking out products
that taste good, but also support their
overall health and well-being.
Functional foods encompass a wide
range of edibles, from everyday
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One of the primary advantages of
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levels, and even enhance brain
function. Functional foods have also
been shown to mitigate the risk of
chronic diseases such as diabetes,
cardiovascular disorders and certain
cancers, making them invaluable
additions to a balanced diet.
Functional foods come in various
forms, from common grocery items to
specialised health products. We’ve put
together a few examples of items that
you can add to your shopping list.
Plant-based meat
alternatives
These products, made from
ingredients such as pea protein,
are enriched with essential
vitamins and minerals and provide
a meat-free protein source.
Text: MELLISSA BUSHBY
Probiotic yogurt
Fortified with live beneficial bacteria,
probiotic yogurt promotes gut health
and aids in digestion.

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Green and dark-skinned avocados are available in South Africa
almost all year round and the good news is that whichever colour avo you
choose, they’re all equally delicious and nutritious.
Remember that green-skinned avos
remain green when ripe, while the
dark-skinned avos turn purple-black
when ready to eat – so please don’t
squeeze! Even though avocados
may vary in colour, shape and size,
they are all a source of nutrients and
can be included as part of a healthy
eating plan.
Avocados are one of the most
versatile fruits around. It’s not hard
to see why – they can be mashed,
diced, sliced and puréed for
everything from guacamole; salads;
pizza toppings; sandwich and wrap
fillings; soups; snacks and dips; and
even ice-cream.
They’re great for breakfast, lunch,
supper and dessert, as well as in
between snacks for when you’re on
the move. And with zero preparation
time involved, they’re ultraconvenient,
and quick and easy to
prepare no matter what dish you’re
making. It really couldn’t be easier!
So, no matter what you’re planning
for your next meal always add an avo;
whether on the side, on top or inside
– green-skinned or dark-skinned – for
double the deliciousness!
Health facts
The best thing about avos is that
they are all:
• High in energy
• High in heart healthy fats
• High in vitamin K
• High in biotin
• Cholesterol free
• Sodium free
• A source of fibre
Avocados can form part of a
successful energy-controlled diet for
weight management. The healthy
monounsaturated fats found in
avocados give a feeling of fullness,
which reduces the temptation to
overeat or binge on less healthy foods.
Sushi Bagels recipe that is load shedding friendly
Serves 4, preparation time 25 minutes
Ingredients: 120g packet smoked trout/salmon ribbons, 4 bagels, cut in half
horizontally, 2 avocados, peeled, ½ cucumber, 12 slices pickled ginger, 5ml (1 tsp)
wasabi (optional), Squeeze of lemon juice, to taste, Salt and pepper, 10ml (2 tsp)
sesame seeds (black and/or white)
Method: Trim and wrap 3 trout/salmon ribbons around one of the bagel tops.
Use a vegetable peeler to shave 3 long avo strips and 3 cucumber strips and
wrap around the bagel top. Add 3 slices of ginger. Repeat with the remaining
bagel tops.
Mash all the remaining avo with the wasabi, if using, and lemon juice. Season
with salt and pepper. Use the smashed avo as a little ‘glue’ to stick the sesame
seeds onto the bagel tops.
Spread the mashed avo onto the bottom halves of the bagels and sandwich
together with the tops.
For further information and avo
recipes, visit www.avocado.co.za, like
@iloveavocadoSA on Facebook and
follow @iloveavosSA on Instagram.

Before you tie the
knot
The week leading up to your wedding is often a whirlwind of
emotions, excitement and last-minute details. Amid all the
chaos, it’s crucial to stay organised and focused to ensure that
everything goes smoothly on your big day.
Text: MELLISSA BUSHBY
22 Get It Lowveld May 2024

We’ve put together a few important tips to help you navigate this final stretch
with ease, making sure you embark on the next chapter of your life with as little
stress and as much excitement as possible. Remember that on her wedding day,
every bride is a princess!
The nitty-gritty
Use this week to tie up any loose ends
and confirm arrangements. Doublecheck
delivery times and seating
arrangements, and ensure everyone
involved knows their roles and
responsibilities.
Delegate
Don’t try to do everything yourself.
Give tasks to trusted friends and family
members to alleviate some of the
stress. Assign someone to oversee
set-up and decorations, another to
handle guest accommodations, check
food and flower arrangements, and
so on.
Pack essentials
Create a checklist of items you’ll
need for the wedding day and pack
them ahead of time. This includes
your wedding attire, accessories,
vows, marriage licence and any other
important documents or items. Don’t
forget a first aid kit!
Me-time
Take time to relax and indulge in a
little self-care. Get plenty of rest, eat
well-balanced meals, stay hydrated
and consider doing a little yoga and/or
meditation to help alleviate stress
and anxiety.
Confirm arrangements
If you have any beauty appointments
scheduled, such as hair, make-up
or spa treatments, confirm them in
advance. Double-check the timing to
ensure you’ll have plenty of time to get
ready without feeling rushed.

Communicate
Confirm logistics, timelines and any last-minute changes with everyone
concerned. Make sure they have the correct contact information in case of
emergencies.
Rehearse ceremony
Schedule a rehearsal for the ceremony to ensure everyone knows their cues
and roles. This is also a good opportunity to iron out any kinks and make any
necessary adjustments to the procession or order of events.
Pack for your honeymoon
If you’re leaving for your honeymoon
straight after the wedding, make
sure your bags are packed and ready
in advance. Double-check travel
documents, reservations and any other
necessary arrangements to ensure
smooth sailing.
Stay organised
Keep all important documents,
contact information and schedules in
one central location for easy access.
Consider creating a wedding day
timeline to keep everyone on track and
ensure that everything runs smoothly.
Tick the boxes as you go. Not only will
it set your mind at ease, but it will give
you a sense of achievement at being
one step closer.
Enjoy the moment
Last but not least, don’t forget to take
a step back and savour the moment.
Amid all the planning and preparation,
remember that this is a special time in
your life. Enjoy every moment leading
up to your big day.
On the morning of the day
1. Natural light is the most flattering. Choose a room that has
plenty of natural light to get ready in.
2. Surround yourself with people who make you feel good - no
negativity allowed.
3. Wear something you love and feel good in for your
photographs.
4. Make sure you give yourself plenty of time and breathing space.
5. Do your hair and make-up first. You can always touch it up later.
6. Make a playlist of all your favourite music to create a happy and
relaxed atmosphere.
7. Despite your nerves, don’t forget to eat and stay hydrated.
8. Enjoy every single moment. It’s your day.
24 Get It Lowveld May 2024

Cocktail hour
All the feels ... none of the nasties
We’re all about spoiling ourselves, but Indulging while
maintaining a healthy lifestyle can be difficult.
Hello Almost Zero de-alcoholised wines ... a great option for
sport-enthusiasts, weight-watchers, banters, business lunches,
non-drinkers, pregnant women and designated drivers,
as well as those of us who want to sit and sip and enjoy,
but stay healthy. You can drink more mindfully with an alcohol
content of 0.3% per bottle (so virtually no alcohol), and is also
low in sugar. R85 a bottle from takealot.com
Cranberry & rose water sorbet
You’ll need: 500ml cranberry juice, 250ml Almost Zero
Ravishing Rosé, 5ml rose water
To make: Combine wine, cranberry juice and rose water.
Freeze overnight in a sealable, freezer-friendly container. Stir
with a fork or wooden spoon every 2 hours for the first 6
hours to break up large ice crystals.
Wonderful fruity mocktail
You’ll need: 750ml Almost Zero Wonderful White, Green
apple (granny smith or golden delicious), chopped, 1 pear,
chopped, 3 kiwis, peeled and sliced
To make: Mix all the ingredients in a pitcher, stir and serve!
Fancy winning a hamper filled with
de-alcoholised wines and alcohol free bubbly, valued at R2000?
Pop over to @getitnationalmagazines on Instagram to enter.
Radiant Sangria sorbet
You’ll need: 250ml of Almost Zero Radiant Red, 250ml of
water, 250ml of bottled orange juice
To make: Combine wine with water and fruit juice. Freeze
overnight in a sealable, freezer-friendly container. Stir with a
fork or wooden spoon every 2 hours for the first 6 hours to
break up large ice crystals.
May 2024 Get It Lowveld 25

Cindy Hart-Dorfling and Granny Khoza
Text: MELLISSA BUSHBY
Bohemian bliss
With her beautiful garments that lovingly embrace the more curvaceous
feminine figure, Cindy Hart-Dorfling is arguably the boho-chic queen of
the Lowveld.
The Polokwane-born Cindy spent
a few years in Pretoria where she
studied public relations. Her first taste
of the Lowveld was a stint as the
public relations officer in the director’s
office at the Kruger National Park.
“That was the best year of my life! I
have lived in the Lowveld from that
moment on, on and off for the best
part of 20 years. It’s been a bit of a
roller coaster, but a hell of a ride!”
she smiles. Cindy and hubby Morné
Dorfling rekindled a friendship, which
turned into romance, and the couple
has been happily raising their six-year
26 Get It Lowveld May 2024
old son Jamie in their hometown of
Hazyview ever since. Cindy’s gorgeous
range of bohemian-inspired kaftans,
dresses and kimonos came about
during Covid-19, when she realised
she needed a change. Cindy’s hobby
at the time was making beaded
jewellery, and she thought, why not
start selling it?
“I loved being expressive and creative,
and decided to give it a try. From
beads I moved to kaftans and tie-dye.
Why kaftans, you might ask? Well, they
are light, comfortable and breezy,
hide all manner of sin and I feel like a
queen when I’m wearing mine,“
she says.
“Actually, a clothing line was never
in the back of my mind and I had
no idea what to expect. I wanted to
make women feel like royalty, and
as a larger-than-life lady myself, I
understand the difficulty in finding
outfits that fit loosely, fabric that
breathes and patterns that don’t look
like your grandma’s curtains. Tie-dye
might not be everyone’s cup of tea,
but the printed fabric I choose is bold
and modern, combined with a lot
of sexy and sass. I saw a need in the

market for more plus-size creations,
and as it turned out, all sizes like my
creations.”
Cindy’s team is quite small at the
moment, and consists of Cindy
herself and Granny Khoza, a talented
seamstress who helps with the
sewing. For larger orders, she has
Pieter and Elsie van Zyl of Cosmos
Clothing assisting with bulk orders.
The Earthly Collection range staples
are kaftans, kimonos and maxi summer
dresses, all sized up to fit the fuller
figure comfortably. “As I have built my
business on kaftans, I am surprised
to see a remarkable increase in the
maxi summer dresses. They are light
and loose with shoulder straps, and
pockets! The kimonos are just pure
indulgence. The printed versions are
Eastern-inspired with the large open
sleeves and thick trim, whereas the
tie-dye kimono represents a shawl or
throw, giving the impression you are
wearing a boho-chic jacket.”
Cindy describes the process behind
her outfits as a form of art. The fabric
is washed and dried to get maximum
shrinkage, then cut to size and sewn
together. “At this point the fabric is
a finished garment. This is when I
perform my best magic trick and turn
the blank canvas into a work of art,
tying it into shapes that allow for bold
expressive patterns as the dye seeps
into all the nooks and crannies of the
fabric. After completion I hang up the
piece to dry, and just like an artist I feel
a twinge of sadness that I can’t keep it.”
From there the garments go on to their
new owners, either via the online shop
or local markets, which she describes
as her support system and compass
when she doubts herself. “I love going
to the markets, and can’t see myself
giving that up any time soon. I need
the chitchat, to see old friends, make
new ones. It’s more than just the sale,
it’s the human connection, whether
we are buying from one another or
just fixing each other’s crowns. I love
potential clients trying on an item and
seeing that it fits beautifully. And most
of all I love the smiles I get when I tell
them: ‘The dress has no front, no back,
no broeks, and no bra.’”
Inspired by random acts of kindness,
Cindy’s favourite way to spend time
is with her son. “I love watching him
play,” she smiles. “He has such a vivid
imagination and thirst for knowledge,
and wants to talk about snakes and
crocodiles all day long! These are the
things that are good for mental and
emotional health, the soul connection.”
Cindy’s future plans include harem
pants and gypsy skirts, and we can’t
wait to see them!
May 2024 Get It Lowveld 27

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GET IT DIRECTORY

A tail-wagging
adventure
Text: MELLISSA BUSHBY
For some dogs, the mere idea of
a car ride can induce anxiety and
discomfort. The right approach and
a few pertinent tips can ensure a
comfortable and fun journey for both
of you.
Before embarking on a long road
trip, it’s crucial to gradually familiarise
your dog with the car if he or she
isn’t used to it. Start by allowing your
dog to explore the vehicle while
it’s stationary, and reward positive
behaviour with treats and praise to
create a positive association with the
car. Gradually increase the duration
of these sessions, making sure your
pup feels safe and relaxed inside the
vehicle. Make car rides a positive
and enjoyable experience for your
dog by incorporating fun activities
and rewards such as bringing along
their favourite treats and toys to keep
them entertained during the journey.
If it’s a long journey, remember to
schedule regular breaks for ablutions,
stretching and fresh air to break up
the monotony of the trip and allow
30 Get It Lowveld May 2024
Travelling with four-legged friends should be
an enriching experience, deepening the bond
between you and your canine companion while
you explore new destinations together.
your dog to burn off excess energy.
One of the best ways to do this
is to invest in a comfortable and
secure harness or carrier for your
dog to ensure their safety during the
journey. Additionally, bring along their
favourite blanket or toy to provide
a sense of familiarity and comfort.
Consider placing a non-slip mat or
towel on the seat to prevent your dog
from slipping or sliding during the
ride. You can protect your car’s interior
from muddy paw prints, shedding
and the like by using canvas covers
specifically designed for pet travel.
These durable covers provide an
easy-to-clean barrier, ensuring that
your car stays clean and odour-free
throughout the journey. It’s also worth
considering always having a clean-up
kit consisting of paper towels, wipes
and plastic bags at hand.
Many animals are prone to anxiety
during car rides. Consider using
calming aids such as pheromone
sprays, calming supplements (Rescue
Remedies work like a charm) or a
comforting piece of clothing with
your scent. Additionally, play soothing
music or white noise to create a
relaxing atmosphere inside the car.
Gradually increase the duration and
frequency of car rides to help your
dog get used to the experience.

Tips for a stress-free journey:
Plan ahead
If you are travelling far and/or staying
over somewhere, it’s a good idea to
research pet-friendly accommodations
and attractions along your route. This
will help to ensure a smooth and
enjoyable journey for both of you.
Stay hydrated
Keep a supply of fresh water and a
travel bowl on hand to ensure your
dog stays hydrated during the trip.
Safety first
Never ever leave your dog unattended
in a parked car, especially in hot
weather. Ensure proper ventilation and
temperature control inside the vehicle
at all times.
Consult your vet
If your dog experiences severe
anxiety or motion sickness during car
rides, consult your veterinarian for
personalised advice and treatment
options.
Travelling with a pet can be a
rewarding experience. Not only will
you be exploring new destinations
together, but you’ll be creating lasting
memories while doing so. Always
ensure your pet’s comfort and safety,
and take the correct steps to prevent
anxiety. By doing this, you set the
stage for a stress-free and enjoyable
adventure for both you and your
canine companion. So pack your
bags, buckle up and embark on a tailwagging
journey with your best friend
by your side. Happy travels!

Spoil
May
A case of gorgeous wine to
celebrate a special occasion
Long, eventful lunches, with ripe cheese and tapas style platters,
fresh salmon sushi, Mediterranean salads. The perfect
celebration. And for the wine ... this Fairview Rose Quartz
2023 is the ideal match. Pale rose quartz colour in the
glass, with delicate notes of sweet pomegranate, summer
berries and a hint of fresh blossoms, it’s daisy fresh on the
palate with light oaking adding complexity. R140 from
fairviewmarketplace.co.za. We’ve got a case of Fairview
Rose Quartz to give away ... to stand in line to win,
pop over to @getitnationalmagazines on Instagram or
Facebook. Entries close May 25.
32 Get It Lowveld May 2024

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ANNUAL SANBI GARDENS MEMBERSHIP
LAUNCH DATE: 1 APRIL 2024
UNLIMITED ACCESS TO ALL NATIONAL BOTANICAL AND ZOOLOGICAL GARDENS
R800 per adult (18 years and older)
R600 per student 18 years and older (must produce a valid student card)
R400 per child (6–17 years)
SIGN UP AT WWW.WEBTICKETS.CO.ZA
for more information visit www.sanbi.org
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