Vrede en Lust is a real-world wonderland and is the latest winner of Kfm 94.5’s Best of the Cape Awards.
Founded more than 300 years ago, the farm is an ode to standing the test of time. Today, this breathtakingly modern wine farm – a family-owned and managed wine business – is a tribute to its noble roots and continues to build on years of history and heritage.
A Winelands gem that oozes romance at every point, Vrede en Lust’s views are stunning, featuring rolling green lawns, vineyards, and historical Cape Dutch architecture – the perfect backdrop for a stunning wedding ceremony.
After enjoying pre-drinks in the garden, guests can make their way to the Vineyard Terrace. Here, surrounded by frameless glass walls and doused in natural light, couples say I do. A stunning start to forever.
Leading up to your big day, Vrede en Lust’s talented team of wedding coordinators will be sure to check all of your dream day boxes. From pre-planning to world-class catering on the day and fabulous accommodation in which to stay after, Vrede en Lust provides the full wedding monty. And it’s all exclusive and customisable, of course.
Planning a wedding on any scale is no walk in the vineyards. This is what makes Vrede en Lust’s Wedding Venue offerings so spectacular.
Offerings include:
- A picturesque venue with historical Cape Dutch architecture and undulating vineyards.
- A wedding venue enclosed with glass walls.
- A beautiful ceremony and pre-drinks in the gardens.
- Seating for up to 120 people, with a dance floor inside. Or, up to 150 guests with a dance floor outside (weather permitting).
- There’s accommodation for up to 40 guests on the estate within walking distance from the wedding venue.
- Access to exclusive use of the wedding venue and accommodation section of the farm by the bridal couple and their guests for the duration of their stay.
- Catering by Lust Bistro and Bakery – delicious!
The Vineyard Terrace:
- The Vineyard terrace offers spectacular views with a total of 300sqm outdoor floor space, surrounded by frameless glass (250sqm covered by a permanent roof structure).
- The historic cellar covers more than 300sqm, with a permanent kitchen and toilets.
- The venue is backed by generator power to ensure no loss of electricity at any time. Cheers, Eskom.
The good folks at Vrede en Lust welcome you to visit the venue and discuss your requirements with their incredible wedding coordinators.
- Contact VNL Coordinators: 021 874 1611 (during business hours, Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm) or email [email protected].
Vrede en Lust’s Details:
- Website: www.vnl.co.za
- Location: Intersection R45 & Klapmuts Road, Simondium, Western Cape.
The finalists in this category were:
- Bona Dea Private Estate in Hermanus
- Bosjes in Ceres
- Damarakloof in Stellenbosch
- De Uijlenes in Gansbaai
Feature image: Vrede en Rust
There’s nothing we love more than a fairytale proposal, and is there anything more romantic than running 90 kilometres to show just how much you want to be…
We all know how stressful planning a wedding can be, making wedding planning burnout a very real possibility. Whether you’re trying not to pull out your hair as wedding costs skyrocket or you’re obsessing over every little detail to ensure that everything goes the way you’ve pictured it, feeling overwhelmed is guaranteed to happen if you’re not careful.
Thankfully, this isn’t something new and there are endless resources to help the modern bridal couple looking to keep costs and anxiety low.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when attempting to avoid wedding planning burnout:
Don’t rush
This may not always be possible but last-minute wedding planning is not fun for anyone, especially the soon-to-be bride and groom. While there’s nothing wrong with wanting to hop, skip, and jump right into the part where you say “I do,” making sure that you have enough time to plan your dream wedding is always advised as this will give you a spacious timeline to ensure things are handled well and that the process is smooth.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help
The number one reason for wedding planning burning is not asking for help. While it’s not always easy to ask for help, it is a necessary practice if you’re looking to keep your bridal party or the partner you’re set to marry, make sure you delegate tasks to ensure everything on your list is ticked off and that you’re not Atlas attempting to carry the world on your shoulders.
Be normal!
It’s so easy to get wrapped up in planning that you may forget why you’re actually getting married – love. A great way to keep your mental health in tip-top shape is by making sure that you get out and spend some quality time with each other. Plan an epic date night with your partner with a strict “no wedding talk rule,” this will allow you to keep some sense of normality.
Have some fun
Can wedding planning be fun? Well, you’ll need to find out. A big reason for something being incredibly stressful is because it’s just not bringing you the joy you need, so why not endeavour to pull out the fun card? For example, if you’re deciding what you should serve at your wedding, why not turn it into an adventure by setting it up as a “culinary tour” that could also double as a date night?
Technology is your friend
There are countless wedding apps that are ready to lend a helping hand as you attempt to navigate the minefield that is wedding planning. Whether you’re looking to make your life easier by setting up a wedding website and forgoing physical invitations or looking for a nifty app to help you sort out your budget, there’s something for everyone in need.
Feature Image: Olguin Photography
If you’re looking for a dreamy honeymoon destination, try taking a peek in your own backyard. The glittering sands of the South of France, or the azure-blue waters…
Celebrating an anniversary is a special occasion that deserves a meaningful gift. In South Africa, couples in 2025 have a plethora of options to choose from, ranging from personalized keepsakes to romantic experiences. Here are some ideas to inspire your gift-giving:
Personalized Keepsakes
Gifting a personalized item adds a sentimental touch to your celebration. Consider:
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Engraved Jewelry: Pieces like necklaces or bracelets with initials or special dates.
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Custom Art: Commissioned artwork depicting significant moments in your relationship.
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Personalized Home Décor: Items like cushions or photo frames with meaningful messages.
These gifts serve as lasting reminders of your love and commitment.
Romantic Experiences
Creating memories together can be more valuable than physical gifts. Consider gifting experiences such as:
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Wine Tasting Tours: Explore the renowned wine estates in Stellenbosch or Franschhoek.
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Hot Air Balloon Rides: Experience the breathtaking views over the Magaliesburg.
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Spa Retreats: Indulge in a relaxing couple’s massage at a luxury spa.
These experiences offer quality time together and unforgettable memories.
Timeless Jewelry
Jewelry remains a classic anniversary gift. In 2025, consider:
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Diamond Pieces: Symbols of enduring love and commitment.
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Birthstone Jewelry: Personalized to represent significant dates or milestones.
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Custom Rings: Designed to reflect your unique bond.
Renowned jewelers in South Africa offer a wide range of options to suit every taste and budget.
Subscription Services
Gifting a subscription service can provide ongoing enjoyment. Consider:
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Wine or Coffee Subscriptions: Monthly deliveries of curated selections.
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Streaming Services: Access to movies, music, or documentaries.
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Book Clubs: Monthly book deliveries with discussion guides.
These subscriptions offer continued enjoyment and shared experiences.
Charitable Donations
For couples who value philanthropy, consider making a donation in their name to a cause they care about. This thoughtful gesture reflects shared values and contributes to meaningful change.
Selecting the perfect anniversary gift in 2025 involves considering your partner’s preferences and the shared experiences that define your relationship. Whether it’s a personalized keepsake, a romantic experience, timeless jewelry, a subscription service, or a charitable donation, the thought and effort behind the gift will make your anniversary celebration truly special.
As wedding trends evolve, so do the ways couples express gratitude to their groomsmen. In South Africa, 2025 brings a blend of tradition and modernity to groomsman gifts.…
When planning your wedding in South Africa, one of the key decisions is whether to buy or hire suits for the groom and groomsmen. Both options have their advantages and costs, and the best choice depends on your budget, style preferences, and how often you anticipate wearing the suit again.
Buying a Tailored Suit
Pros:
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Custom fit tailored to your measurements.
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Personalized fabric and style choices.
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Long-term investment for future events.
Cons:
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Higher upfront cost.
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May require additional alterations.
Cost:
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A 2-piece suit from a reputable tailor like Kale & Co Bespoke starts at R15,500, excluding VAT.
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Tailored suits from brands such as The Tux Tailor and Tip Top Tailor are available from R5,500 to R6,000.
Hiring a Suit
Pros:
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Lower upfront cost.
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No need for storage or maintenance.
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Ideal for one-time events.
Cons:
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Limited customization options.
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May not fit as perfectly as a tailored suit.
Cost:
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Suit hire prices range from R550 to R1,590, depending on the package and accessories included.
Cost Comparison
| Option | Starting Price (ZAR) | Customization | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Buying | R5,500 – R18,500 | High | Frequent wear |
| Hiring | R550 – R1,590 | Low | One-time events |
Which Option is Right for You?
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Buy a suit if you plan to attend multiple formal events or want a personalized fit and style.
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Hire a suit if you’re looking for a cost-effective solution for a single event without the need for long-term storage.
Local Suit Hire and Tailoring Options
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Mr Suit Hire: Offers a range of suits for hire starting from R550.
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The Dress Suit: Provides complete outfit hire packages, including suit, shirt, waistcoat, cravat, hanky, and cuff links for R1,590.
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Kale & Co Bespoke: Specializes in high-end tailored suits starting from R15,500.
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The Tux Tailor: Offers tailored suits from R5,500.
Choosing between buying and hiring a suit depends on your personal preferences, budget, and how often you anticipate wearing the suit again. Consider the long-term value of owning a tailored suit versus the immediate cost savings of hiring. Whichever option you choose, ensure it aligns with your wedding vision and personal style.
Featured Image: Canva
As weddings evolve, so do the accessories that complete a bride’s ensemble. In 2025, bridal accessories are embracing both minimalist elegance and bold statements, allowing brides to express…
Source: Amb Peschke on X
Your Guide to the Best Wedding Venues in the Free State
The Free State has long been the quiet heart of South Africa. A place where sandstone mountains blush orange at sunset and farm valleys bloom with cherry blossoms in spring. It may not have the glamour of Cape wine farms or the drama of Kruger bushveld lodges, but that’s exactly the charm. Here, weddings feel rooted in the land, unhurried, and deeply personal.
With vast open plains, mountain-framed valleys, and small towns known for their hospitality, the Free State is undoubtedly one of South Africa’s most underrated wedding destinations. Whether you’re dreaming of a rustic barn celebration, a fairytale orchard ceremony, or a sandstone chapel steeped in history, the province offers it all.
We’ve put together a list of the most beautiful Free State wedding venues — with full details to help you picture your perfect day.
1. Mont d’Or Clarens – Boutique Elegance in the Jewel of the Free State
Source: Mont d’Or on Instagram
Clarens has become one of South Africa’s most loved small towns, often called the “Jewel of the Free State.” The Mont d’Or Clarens Hotel captures that charm perfectly.
What makes it unique:
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Ceremony sites: You can choose between the historic Old Local Church or an intimate, specially decorated function space.
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Reception: After the officiating ceremony you can dine La Vue Parfaite Restaurant which comfortably accommodates 80 guests, and offers gourmet dining paired with panoramic views of the Maluti Mountains.
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Extras: Canapés and cocktails can be served on their verandah at golden hour, adding to the magic of your special day.
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Spa excellence: Mont d’Or boasts a luxury spa featuring Africa’s Kalahari Skincare range, ideal for bridal pampering before your big day.
This venue blends boutique intimacy with luxury touches — perfect for smaller weddings that want elegance without losing the warmth of a mountain town.
2. The Rosendal Country Retreat: A Sandstone Gem with Exclusive Charm
Source: The Rosendal Country Retreat on Instagram
Nestled on the edge of Rosendal, a tiny town in the Eastern Free State, The Rosendal Country Retreat is ideal for couples who want their wedding to feel like a private weekend festival. Situated just 70km from Bethlehem, 106km from Clarens, 152km from Kroonstad and 214 km from Bloemfontein, The Rosendal Country estate is the perfect place for a weekend escape.
What makes it unique:
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Exclusive use: The venue is yours for the entire weekend — no back-to-back weddings, no rush. You can start setting up décor and flowers the day before.
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Ceremony options: The old sandstone chapel, with every block carved using century-old techniques, seats 120 guests on wooden benches. Alternatively, the manicured gardens offer outdoor ceremony options with padded white chairs.
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Reception spaces: Couples can choose between a ballroom (120 guests) and a gallery (80 guests), both surrounded by landscaped gardens.
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The lounge: A cosy canapés space with a fireplace, couches, and a stoep overlooking the mountains — perfect for cake-cutting and mingling.
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Accommodation: 12 self-catering units are included at a 20% discount, plus more guesthouses in town. The retreat can host up to 44 people on-site.
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Dining: Meals are freshly prepared using local produce, and packages include a professional DJ.
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Coordination: An in-house event coordinator is included, guiding couples through every detail, which is super helpful if you’re planning your wedding from far away.
The Rosendal Country Retreat is for couples who want authenticity, exclusivity, and a chance to slow down with family and friends while surrounded by sweeping mountain views.
3. Welgelegen Cherry Estate – Weddings in Bloom
Source: Welgelegen Cherry Estate
Set on a working cherry and apple farm 40km from Clarens, Welgelegen Cherry Estate offers a wedding experience that evolves with the seasons.
What makes it unique:
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Ceremony choices:
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A deck over the dam with the Maluti Mountains as your backdrop.
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Lush grass aisles near the water.
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Cherry orchards bursting with white blossoms in spring, red fruit in summer, or fiery autumn leaves, for gorgeous wedding pictures.
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A sandstone chapel overlooking the dam (very ideal as Plan B for rainy days).
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Reception: A covered outdoor patio for canapés and cocktails at sunset, followed by the main reception hall where guests can dine and dance. A cash bar is included.
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Bridal & groom suites: A private bridal suite overlooking the mountains, with a walkway across the dam for dramatic entrances, and a groomsmen’s house for pre-wedding bonding.
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Accommodation: Space for 84 guests, with 80 rooms offering private bathrooms. Luxury on-site suites for couples are included.
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Weekend extras: Friday night braais, Sunday farewell breakfasts, and full venue exclusivity for the weekend.
Guests often describe Welgelegen as “a countryside holiday wrapped around a wedding.” With photo opportunities at every turn and hospitality rooted in farm traditions, it’s an experience that feels both grand and relaxed.
4. Lavender Hill Country Estate – Elegance with a Countryside Heart 
Source: Lavender Hill Country Estate on Instagram
Located in Bethlehem, Lavender Hill Country Estate stretches across 25 hectares, with views of the Maluti Mountains and Ash River. Its gardens of roses, lavender, Arabian horses, and exotic geese create a romantic backdrop.
What makes it unique:
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Ceremony options:
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Hillsong Chapel (200 guests) with panoramic mountain views, air-conditioning, and a built-in sound system.
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Boskerk Chapel (120 guests), nestled among trees.
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Outdoor garden ceremonies (100 guests), weather permitting.
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Reception halls: Four air-conditioned options, with seating, décor, and catering facilities included. Weddings can run until 2am without extra charges.
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Décor & furniture: Included in packages (tables, chairs, crockery, underplates, glassware, linens). Lavender Hill also manages set-up and breakdown.
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Extras: On-site honeymoon suite “Aphrodite” with special rates for multiple nights. Cash bar with barman, DJ, photographer, and preferred local vendors.
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Eco-conscious: The entire venue runs on solar power.
Lavender Hill is perfect for couples who want the stress taken out of logistics, with every detail — from underplates to waitstaff — handled seamlessly by a dedicated team.
5. Lupela Lodge – A Rustic Mountain Hideaway
Source: Lupela Lodge on Instagram
For couples looking for something intimate and deeply connected to nature, Lupela Lodge near Lady Grey delivers rustic charm in abundance.
What makes it unique:
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Ceremony sites: An enchanted riverside forest or an airy sandstone chapel with a mountain backdrop.
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Reception spaces: A restored sandstone wool shed accommodating 180 guests. Chandeliers, draped fabrics, and fairy lights transform it into a romantic hall.
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Multi-level venue: Canapés and drinks on the lower level, with a lawn for outdoor mingling, and the upper level reserved for dinner and dancing.
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Accommodation: 18 on-site guests in cottages, plus 22 more on a neighbouring farm. Shuttle services to Lady Grey ensure easy access.
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Weekend feel: Friday evening gatherings and Sunday breakfasts make it more than a one-day event.
Lupela is described by couples as a “mountain escape,” where silence, scenery, and intimacy combine for weddings that feel unplugged and soulful.
6. Oranje Guest Farm – Where Tradition Meets Grandeur
Source: Oranje Wedding Venue on Instagram
Set between Fouriesburg and Clarens, Oranje Guest Farm is a working farm with sweeping views of the Maluti and Rooi Mountains.
What makes it unique:
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Setting: Sandstone cliffs coloured tan, red, and gold by the sun create a dramatic backdrop.
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Venue: A sandstone barn and church with capacity for 220 guests, ideal for larger countryside weddings.
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Hospitality: In-house catering ranges from traditional South African feasts to international menus, while décor teams customise flowers, colour schemes, and themes.
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Full service: Venue fees include waiters, barmen, ice, and wine service.
Couples love Oranje for its ability to balance grandeur with authenticity. Guests can enjoy the sights of cattle and horses grazing, adding to the farm atmosphere that makes weddings here feel both rustic and refined.
Why the Free State Should Be on Your Wedding Radar
On Instagram and TikTok, more couples are showcasing their Free State weddings, and the reaction has been glowing. Brides rave about the slower pace, the warm hospitality, and the fact that venues often allow entire weekends of celebration. Guests, meanwhile, love the chance to turn a wedding into a countryside retreat with braais, walks, and mountain sunsets.
In a country where beach weddings and wine estates often dominate the spotlight, the Free State is proving to be South Africa’s hidden wedding gem. It’s not just about the day you say “I do” — it’s about creating a whole experience, wrapped in the quiet magic of the South African heartland.
North West Province, South Africa, offers a diverse array of wedding venues that cater to various tastes and preferences. Whether you’re envisioning a romantic bushveld ceremony, an elegant…